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The Men #5
Pleasing Mr. Parker
"You are mine, Sweetheart. You were always going to be mine."
They say, don't mix business with pleasure. I bet they never had to work with Griffin Parker.
He headhunts me to manage the spa in his iconic New York hotel, the Songbird. It's a dream opportunity, but he's a nightmare in a designer suit.
We clash spectacularly when he refuses to give up control. He doesn't trust me. I don't like him. Until one day, we manage to work together, and an idea grows wings.
And the things he says… Oh God.
I've spent my life fighting back against the repercussions of pleasing other people. Yet, I find myself doing exactly that. Because when Mr. Parker is pleased with you, the rest of the world drifts away.
He tells me I belong to him. But he doesn't tell me if I will survive him. No one can tell me that. He didn't get to be one of the most powerful businessmen in New York easily. He has enemies.
I'm flying straight into a storm—and I don't even want to stop myself.
Pleasing Mr. Parker features a billionaire alpha bosshole, beautiful New York City, glamor, money, diamonds, a filthy-talking hero, praise, secrets and lies, tropical getaways, friendships, groveling, pigeons, and a happily ever after because love always wins.
They say, don't mix business with pleasure. I bet they never had to work with Griffin Parker.
He headhunts me to manage the spa in his iconic New York hotel, the Songbird. It's a dream opportunity, but he's a nightmare in a designer suit.
We clash spectacularly when he refuses to give up control. He doesn't trust me. I don't like him. Until one day, we manage to work together, and an idea grows wings.
And the things he says… Oh God.
I've spent my life fighting back against the repercussions of pleasing other people. Yet, I find myself doing exactly that. Because when Mr. Parker is pleased with you, the rest of the world drifts away.
He tells me I belong to him. But he doesn't tell me if I will survive him. No one can tell me that. He didn't get to be one of the most powerful businessmen in New York easily. He has enemies.
I'm flying straight into a storm—and I don't even want to stop myself.
Pleasing Mr. Parker features a billionaire alpha bosshole, beautiful New York City, glamor, money, diamonds, a filthy-talking hero, praise, secrets and lies, tropical getaways, friendships, groveling, pigeons, and a happily ever after because love always wins.
476 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2022
5656 people are currently reading
11864 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 593 reviews
August 12, 2022
Just for the amount of times he says the words cum, cock and cunt…this was dreadful. Seriously…fyi “romance” authors…I don’t know any woman, myself included, that wants to hear a man talk about her cunt. Its too much and disgusting. It really goes beyond dirty talk to something too vulgar and degrading.
Oh, and the amount of times her “juices” were running down her leg or shooting out of her (it seriously said that) was bizarre. She needs a gynaecologist.
Also, I feel like this was written by a man because I refuse to believe a woman would write female characters this poorly and without a basic understanding of female anatomy and what’s normal vs not in terms of basic bodily functions.
Oh, and the amount of times her “juices” were running down her leg or shooting out of her (it seriously said that) was bizarre. She needs a gynaecologist.
Also, I feel like this was written by a man because I refuse to believe a woman would write female characters this poorly and without a basic understanding of female anatomy and what’s normal vs not in terms of basic bodily functions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2022
1.5⭐
And you call that grovelling? Nah. He's such a piece of sh*t. He deserves nothing.
1.5 stars because Maria is such a pure soul.
This book was a mess. First of all we don't get to see their first meeting. He apparently "hunted" for her and we never got to see this.
He has trust issues because his ex manager/ ex girlfriend apparently stole some formulations and sold them to their rivals. So now he's got the best PI ever but this man can't do his job but still after months of searching and finding absolutely nothing Griffin doesn't think to fire this PI. But hey! He's so smart and "perfect". I don't know who lied to this man cause he's dumb af. And why would anyone think he's perfect? He's not!!
I never hated a MMC so much. He's literally the worst.
The plot twist wasn't that great like I knew who it was from the beginning. And there were some serious problems.
If I were Maria I'd sue every single person who lead to her being arrested. And I'd start from Griffin, his company and then the "vogue" team.
This "man" doesn't deserve her. The whole "I own you" "you are mine" " I love you" made me sick.
I really hate him.
When she slapped him I was so freaking happy. I was like wow now she can find her real soulmate but no they got back together 😐
What a disappointment
And you call that grovelling? Nah. He's such a piece of sh*t. He deserves nothing.
1.5 stars because Maria is such a pure soul.
This book was a mess. First of all we don't get to see their first meeting. He apparently "hunted" for her and we never got to see this.
He has trust issues because his ex manager/ ex girlfriend apparently stole some formulations and sold them to their rivals. So now he's got the best PI ever but this man can't do his job but still after months of searching and finding absolutely nothing Griffin doesn't think to fire this PI. But hey! He's so smart and "perfect". I don't know who lied to this man cause he's dumb af. And why would anyone think he's perfect? He's not!!
I never hated a MMC so much. He's literally the worst.
The plot twist wasn't that great like I knew who it was from the beginning. And there were some serious problems.
If I were Maria I'd sue every single person who lead to her being arrested. And I'd start from Griffin, his company and then the "vogue" team.
This "man" doesn't deserve her. The whole "I own you" "you are mine" " I love you" made me sick.
I really hate him.
When she slapped him I was so freaking happy. I was like wow now she can find her real soulmate but no they got back together 😐
What a disappointment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
August 4, 2022DNF @ 15% - I was kinda digging the manwhore boss premise 🤷🏼♀️… kinda old school… then we get the bait-and- switch and of course the only part of the plot that would add conflict and angst was actually just a zany misunderstanding. 😐 womp-womp
This is just another highly sanitized, super safe, extremely forgettable kind of read that bores me to tears. 😩😩
Bonus: the boss H was in a relationship with the last spa owner he hired, as well. So I guess he makes it a habit of screwing his employees. 👀🙄😐
Meh
This is just another highly sanitized, super safe, extremely forgettable kind of read that bores me to tears. 😩😩
Bonus: the boss H was in a relationship with the last spa owner he hired, as well. So I guess he makes it a habit of screwing his employees. 👀🙄😐
Meh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
I found it very good, with a gentle flow in the writing (I had read 100 pages and I hadn't even realised it) and with interesting characters and plot. It felt quite slow burn-ish in the beginning which I love (always prefering it from instalove) and towards the end the angst and the emotions I felt (nope I wasn't sniffing I swear) it was amazing. The only thing I oppose or that would be a 5 star for me was the extented detailed many many intimate scenes, so much that I feel if they would decrease the book would be half of what is now.
April 16, 2023
This was kind of ok until we hit the conflict and then it lost me. I stopped wanting them together at that point. And seriously, how dense was he anyway to believe all of that? Get a clue man.
I liked that he was a dirty talker but then my teeth were on edge from the number of times he called her sweetheart - 104 times in a 440 page book.
Complete story. Available on ku. Not for me.
I liked that he was a dirty talker but then my teeth were on edge from the number of times he called her sweetheart - 104 times in a 440 page book.
Complete story. Available on ku. Not for me.
Read
July 27, 2022I tried my best. I really did. But I could not bring myself to read more than 33%. I literally dragged myself up there until I just couldn’t take it anymore.
Firstly, both the main characters are dumb. For a businessman, Griffin is an idiot whose only personality trait is to growl and be a major, bland dick. For a proclaimed strong woman, Maria is dimwitted and literally has no personality other than to whine.
She and Griffin nearly fuck on the beach, and when he has to answer his phone, she legit runs out on him because she regrets giving in. Then the next morning, she’s acting all prissy when Griffin acts like nothing happened? This absolute moron literally goes, “What an idiot I was, thinking that moment last night was romantic.” First of all, what moment? Him eating you out? Secondly, romantic? Thirdly, WHAT DO YOU MEAN? YOU RAN OUT ON HIM. WHAT WAS HE SUPPOSED TO DO?
Then she says, “There’s nothing in his eyes. No flash of recognition when he looks at me… it had meant nothing.” I’m sorry, are we missing something here? Are we going to pretend YOU DIDNT RUN OUT ON HIM? My god, for a woman who’s supposed to be so smart, she’s such an idiot.
The writing style wasn’t compelling, either. Moving on now.
Firstly, both the main characters are dumb. For a businessman, Griffin is an idiot whose only personality trait is to growl and be a major, bland dick. For a proclaimed strong woman, Maria is dimwitted and literally has no personality other than to whine.
She and Griffin nearly fuck on the beach, and when he has to answer his phone, she legit runs out on him because she regrets giving in. Then the next morning, she’s acting all prissy when Griffin acts like nothing happened? This absolute moron literally goes, “What an idiot I was, thinking that moment last night was romantic.” First of all, what moment? Him eating you out? Secondly, romantic? Thirdly, WHAT DO YOU MEAN? YOU RAN OUT ON HIM. WHAT WAS HE SUPPOSED TO DO?
Then she says, “There’s nothing in his eyes. No flash of recognition when he looks at me… it had meant nothing.” I’m sorry, are we missing something here? Are we going to pretend YOU DIDNT RUN OUT ON HIM? My god, for a woman who’s supposed to be so smart, she’s such an idiot.
The writing style wasn’t compelling, either. Moving on now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2022
This was written by a woman? This piece of shit of a book? Bloody hell, this was horrific.
The amount of times the MMC (Griffin) used the words “cunt”, “cock”, and “cum” made me want to bleach my mind to forget about this disgusting excuse of a book. Seriously… no one wants to hear a man constantly talking and using that word. It’s vulgar as much as it is degrading. I don’t mind the word being used a few times, but CONSTANTLY referring to her vagina as a cunt is too much.
Another thing this “perfect” man constantly says is; “you’re mine. MINE!” And “sweetheart”, dear Lord I was close to jumping in front of a train every time he used that pet name. In one of the chapters I counted eight times he used the word “sweetheart”, absolute joke and cringe af! 🤣 He’s ruined the word for me. Instead of using it in every sentence that involved the FMC (Maria), use it a few times to keep it special and heart-fluttering! Or for arguing!
He’s also growling constantly. You a fucking dog, mate?
Too much.
He LOVES having Maria repeat things to her after she says it with her shoulders back and chin up. Gets boring having to have her repeat herself for his dumb-ass.
✨ Moving on to other things he says that makes me want to die, ✨
“My beautiful, perfect woman.”
“My beautiful girlfriend.”
“Love of my life. She’s MY love of my life.”
I physically gagged every time he described her.
✨ Next, ✨
“Jay Anderson's eyes crinkle at the corners as he leans forward and kisses my girlfriend on both cheeks. I swear if she blushes, all hell will break loose.”
YUCK. ICK.
Insecure much, Mr billionaire? No one can help blushing! It’s a normal bodily reaction that no one can stop from happening, dude 🙄
✨ Next, ✨
“You’re such a good girl, taking my cock so well.”
Maria Taylor is a “strong, independent” woman, yet in the bedroom a complete contrast to that! No thanks. Honestly…. I think this author just put in “good girl” praises just to fill in some gaps. It was cringe af!
✨ Movinggg on, ✨
I find Maria an idiot… sorry! When she was being investigated by the detectives, why didn’t she demand for a lawyer? Instead of sitting and answering all their questions. Which the questions were ridiculous, btw 🤣 She had thirty minutes alone in the investigation room and didn’t think to make a plan before speaking with them? Fucking common sense to get a lawyer before sitting with detectives and opening your mouth. What’s just brilliant is that at the end of the interrogation the detectives THEN say, “we would also suggest you instruct a lawyer.” When she should have had one before being questioned. It maddened me!
✨ Next we have the situation with childhood friend Emily. Of course her name is Emily 🙄 ✨
“I hold her in my arms, all the years of friendship stronger than the hurt and anger.”
This bitch (Emily) got Griffin’s ex girlfriend (Gwen) set up for stealing product and then going to their rival company with it. AND THEN she also set up Maria for stealing money from Griffins hotel business and transferring it into an account in M’s name, also trying to frame M for almost killing someone, and finally getting M arrested.
And he’s saying his friendship is now stronger because what? Emily wanted her daddy to love her? And that’s why she done what she done to two innocent women? Nah. Fuck off.
Honestly, I think with what happened with Emily was the authors pathetic attempt to just close that part of the book and be done with it.
Griffin’s just a fucking idiot. The way he runs to Emily and catches her in his arms after he confronts her. Page 431-442, chapter 33. Read it, you’ll understand what I mean. Can no longer be bothered wasting my time writing about it.
✨Last, but not least, ✨
Grovelling? What fucking grovelling? He done the bare minimum after the shit he pulled.
Honestly, I hate the MMC.
If I was Maria, I would NEVER forgive him. You’d be out my life quicker than a flash of lightening.
Would have LOVED if the author didn’t allow Maria to forgive Griffin. Would have been a much better story than this bs! But, of course she does.
Ugh, boringgggg.
They’re both idiots. Both deserve each other.
Rant over <3
The amount of times the MMC (Griffin) used the words “cunt”, “cock”, and “cum” made me want to bleach my mind to forget about this disgusting excuse of a book. Seriously… no one wants to hear a man constantly talking and using that word. It’s vulgar as much as it is degrading. I don’t mind the word being used a few times, but CONSTANTLY referring to her vagina as a cunt is too much.
Another thing this “perfect” man constantly says is; “you’re mine. MINE!” And “sweetheart”, dear Lord I was close to jumping in front of a train every time he used that pet name. In one of the chapters I counted eight times he used the word “sweetheart”, absolute joke and cringe af! 🤣 He’s ruined the word for me. Instead of using it in every sentence that involved the FMC (Maria), use it a few times to keep it special and heart-fluttering! Or for arguing!
He’s also growling constantly. You a fucking dog, mate?
Too much.
He LOVES having Maria repeat things to her after she says it with her shoulders back and chin up. Gets boring having to have her repeat herself for his dumb-ass.
✨ Moving on to other things he says that makes me want to die, ✨
“My beautiful, perfect woman.”
“My beautiful girlfriend.”
“Love of my life. She’s MY love of my life.”
I physically gagged every time he described her.
✨ Next, ✨
“Jay Anderson's eyes crinkle at the corners as he leans forward and kisses my girlfriend on both cheeks. I swear if she blushes, all hell will break loose.”
YUCK. ICK.
Insecure much, Mr billionaire? No one can help blushing! It’s a normal bodily reaction that no one can stop from happening, dude 🙄
✨ Next, ✨
“You’re such a good girl, taking my cock so well.”
Maria Taylor is a “strong, independent” woman, yet in the bedroom a complete contrast to that! No thanks. Honestly…. I think this author just put in “good girl” praises just to fill in some gaps. It was cringe af!
✨ Movinggg on, ✨
I find Maria an idiot… sorry! When she was being investigated by the detectives, why didn’t she demand for a lawyer? Instead of sitting and answering all their questions. Which the questions were ridiculous, btw 🤣 She had thirty minutes alone in the investigation room and didn’t think to make a plan before speaking with them? Fucking common sense to get a lawyer before sitting with detectives and opening your mouth. What’s just brilliant is that at the end of the interrogation the detectives THEN say, “we would also suggest you instruct a lawyer.” When she should have had one before being questioned. It maddened me!
✨ Next we have the situation with childhood friend Emily. Of course her name is Emily 🙄 ✨
“I hold her in my arms, all the years of friendship stronger than the hurt and anger.”
This bitch (Emily) got Griffin’s ex girlfriend (Gwen) set up for stealing product and then going to their rival company with it. AND THEN she also set up Maria for stealing money from Griffins hotel business and transferring it into an account in M’s name, also trying to frame M for almost killing someone, and finally getting M arrested.
And he’s saying his friendship is now stronger because what? Emily wanted her daddy to love her? And that’s why she done what she done to two innocent women? Nah. Fuck off.
Honestly, I think with what happened with Emily was the authors pathetic attempt to just close that part of the book and be done with it.
Griffin’s just a fucking idiot. The way he runs to Emily and catches her in his arms after he confronts her. Page 431-442, chapter 33. Read it, you’ll understand what I mean. Can no longer be bothered wasting my time writing about it.
✨Last, but not least, ✨
Grovelling? What fucking grovelling? He done the bare minimum after the shit he pulled.
Honestly, I hate the MMC.
If I was Maria, I would NEVER forgive him. You’d be out my life quicker than a flash of lightening.
Would have LOVED if the author didn’t allow Maria to forgive Griffin. Would have been a much better story than this bs! But, of course she does.
Ugh, boringgggg.
They’re both idiots. Both deserve each other.
Rant over <3
July 4, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥.5
Moving across the country for a brand new job at one of the city's top luxury hotels is the challenge that Maria Taylor has been waiting for all her life. Elevating a renowned hotel spa? Easy peasy. Working for a seemingly cold and overly focused boss? No problem. Stop being attracted to said boss? It is not as easy as Maria thought.
Because Griffin Parker is a hard man to shake off. Great-looking, charming (when he wants to be), domineering. And he seems to have his sights on Maria.
What I love about Elle Nicoll's series are the men who consume the FMC's -- and reader's -- every being. Griffin Parker raises the already high standard set by his predecessors with his possessiveness and filthy talk. This quintessential alphahole definitely brings the heat in this read.
His mercurial presence is nicely tempered by Maria's kindness and wit. Delicious tension and chemistry aside, Maria pushes for -- and gets -- an emotional and intellectual connection. Despite Griff's overwhelming personality, she proves herself to be every bit his equal in charm and intelligence.
I always enjoy when Elle Nicoll adds an element of suspense, and this book is no exception. We get a fantastic mystery about Griff's elusive ex-girlfriend who also happened to be the former spa manager, and the story around that provides a wonderful climax to the book.
This is the fifth book in Nicoll's Men series, but each book, including this one, can be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Elle Nicoll and Give Me Books PR for providing an ARC. **
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥.5
Moving across the country for a brand new job at one of the city's top luxury hotels is the challenge that Maria Taylor has been waiting for all her life. Elevating a renowned hotel spa? Easy peasy. Working for a seemingly cold and overly focused boss? No problem. Stop being attracted to said boss? It is not as easy as Maria thought.
Because Griffin Parker is a hard man to shake off. Great-looking, charming (when he wants to be), domineering. And he seems to have his sights on Maria.
What I love about Elle Nicoll's series are the men who consume the FMC's -- and reader's -- every being. Griffin Parker raises the already high standard set by his predecessors with his possessiveness and filthy talk. This quintessential alphahole definitely brings the heat in this read.
His mercurial presence is nicely tempered by Maria's kindness and wit. Delicious tension and chemistry aside, Maria pushes for -- and gets -- an emotional and intellectual connection. Despite Griff's overwhelming personality, she proves herself to be every bit his equal in charm and intelligence.
I always enjoy when Elle Nicoll adds an element of suspense, and this book is no exception. We get a fantastic mystery about Griff's elusive ex-girlfriend who also happened to be the former spa manager, and the story around that provides a wonderful climax to the book.
This is the fifth book in Nicoll's Men series, but each book, including this one, can be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Elle Nicoll and Give Me Books PR for providing an ARC. **
July 10, 2022
okay read
It was an okay read. I’m not a fan of reading about characters who just aren’t that bright - and it seemed for a man who was supposedly a good businessman, he was pretty freaking dumb! But he suited the heroine, I guess. Yeah he was sorry, but she caved pretty quick so not quite sure why there was a 3 months later thing. Couldn’t be bothered building trust between the characters again seems like the likely reason. It’s an okay read. Will I read the next one? Nah. The hero in the next book doesn’t appeal. But I’m sure others will enjoy it.
It was an okay read. I’m not a fan of reading about characters who just aren’t that bright - and it seemed for a man who was supposedly a good businessman, he was pretty freaking dumb! But he suited the heroine, I guess. Yeah he was sorry, but she caved pretty quick so not quite sure why there was a 3 months later thing. Couldn’t be bothered building trust between the characters again seems like the likely reason. It’s an okay read. Will I read the next one? Nah. The hero in the next book doesn’t appeal. But I’m sure others will enjoy it.
October 3, 2024
Story: not bad 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
characters: Maria 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Parker 3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Length: 1 🌟too long for a romance
Betrayal: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
grovel: 1 🌟 not even close dude! You went after her hard and when you had her you doubted her, accused her of betraying you, then left her in prison! and you JUST SAY SORRY!
FL gave in: 1🌟 she gave in way before he came. Pining after him and shutting down like that!
so overall 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟
characters: Maria 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Parker 3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Romance: 3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Length: 1 🌟too long for a romance
Betrayal: 4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
grovel: 1 🌟 not even close dude! You went after her hard and when you had her you doubted her, accused her of betraying you, then left her in prison! and you JUST SAY SORRY!
FL gave in: 1🌟 she gave in way before he came. Pining after him and shutting down like that!
so overall 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟
April 21, 2023
the blurb says “alpha bosshole”, that should tell you enough about this book.
May 30, 2024
I struggled to read this so much because I found out who the villain was early on. Then I expected a satisfying ending but … it was very disappointing.
Everything else was just bleh.
Everything else was just bleh.
May 31, 2023
Two broken people falling in love. BROKEN MEN SHOULD JUST BREAK. Maria I love you but stand up and be a real woman?!! You need a new support system, mostly talking about me, because how the hell is your heart that big because if it were me….. Maybe I’ll reread this in the near future when I’m more level headed but everything about the ending made my eyebrow twitch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2022
Absolutely fantastic book
Wow you have done it again book 5, this book is definitely a must read you will not be disappointed Elle has written this book so well the characters, storyline and the back story of Griffin and Maria 5 ⭐️ with a load of 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🥵🥵
Wow you have done it again book 5, this book is definitely a must read you will not be disappointed Elle has written this book so well the characters, storyline and the back story of Griffin and Maria 5 ⭐️ with a load of 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🥵🥵
July 14, 2022
Elle set the bar high for book boyfriends and raised it even higher with the billionaire alphahole Griffin from the fifth book of her Men series. From small town Hope Cove to metropolitan New York, we were brought into a new world of bling, glamour and pigeons (iykyk).
Maria was successful at running her award-winning spa. Her reputation preceded her and the most prominent hotelier Griffin headhunted her to lead the spa operations at his hotel, The Songbird. While he knew she was more than capable, he had a hard time giving up control and letting her take the reins. As much as Maria disliked Griffin’s micro-management, she was super attracted to him. She knew better not to mix business with pleasure, but he was determined to have her.
The Songbird meant a great deal to Griffin and he poured every ounce of energy into making it a success. He could be a broody, controlling boss at times but deep down he was a good man. Ngl, I am a sucker for alphahole. The second he opened his filthy mouth, I was sold. Plus his romantic gestures and the ‘you are mine’ vibe, I was a goner.
Maria was by far my favourite FMC in the series. Intelligent, driven and resilient. She was such a kind soul, her warmth touched everyone she crossed paths with. I loved how she remained calm and level-headed even in times of crisis.
Their pasts scarred them and left them with trust issues. They hesitated to cross that bridge however, true love was worth the risk. It was amazing to see them let their guard down, be vulnerable and learn to trust again. Once again, Elle gave us a beautiful love story filled with humour, steam and emotions. The side characters were brilliant and I loved to see this universe expand. I can’t wait to see what she had up her sleeves!
Maria was successful at running her award-winning spa. Her reputation preceded her and the most prominent hotelier Griffin headhunted her to lead the spa operations at his hotel, The Songbird. While he knew she was more than capable, he had a hard time giving up control and letting her take the reins. As much as Maria disliked Griffin’s micro-management, she was super attracted to him. She knew better not to mix business with pleasure, but he was determined to have her.
The Songbird meant a great deal to Griffin and he poured every ounce of energy into making it a success. He could be a broody, controlling boss at times but deep down he was a good man. Ngl, I am a sucker for alphahole. The second he opened his filthy mouth, I was sold. Plus his romantic gestures and the ‘you are mine’ vibe, I was a goner.
Maria was by far my favourite FMC in the series. Intelligent, driven and resilient. She was such a kind soul, her warmth touched everyone she crossed paths with. I loved how she remained calm and level-headed even in times of crisis.
Their pasts scarred them and left them with trust issues. They hesitated to cross that bridge however, true love was worth the risk. It was amazing to see them let their guard down, be vulnerable and learn to trust again. Once again, Elle gave us a beautiful love story filled with humour, steam and emotions. The side characters were brilliant and I loved to see this universe expand. I can’t wait to see what she had up her sleeves!
May 19, 2024
The constant use of the word ‘cunt’ just turned me off completely. I have never heard a woman use this term to describe her vagina. I have heard it regularly used as an expletive and it’s seen as an incredibly strong and offensive swear word. Why would you want a man using it when describing you?
It’s been a derogatory term since the Middle Ages and that’s why it’s frequently used by men in particular to insult someone. Quite why any female author would want to have her hero use this term as often as Griffin does, escapes me completely.
I might not have minded quite so much if the sex scenes were erotic but they’re not. As mechanical and boring as an IKEA instruction manual.
Not my cup of tea.
It’s been a derogatory term since the Middle Ages and that’s why it’s frequently used by men in particular to insult someone. Quite why any female author would want to have her hero use this term as often as Griffin does, escapes me completely.
I might not have minded quite so much if the sex scenes were erotic but they’re not. As mechanical and boring as an IKEA instruction manual.
Not my cup of tea.
July 5, 2022
This was a powerful story full of faith, trust and love that blew me away. I laughed, cried and raged as I followed along through the stages of the union being created by Maria and Griffin. This was the best book yet in The Men Series. A real heart-clenching HEA not to be missed. This book now holds a special place in my heart!
Dirty talking Griffin Parker takes on confident and beautiful Maria Taylor in this book that hit me right in the heart. It is filled with everything you could ask for: love, distrust, passion, mystery, a few tears and anger. Maria and Griffin will show you how it feels to go from one extreme to another. This couple fights the magnetism that exists between them, trying not to mix business with pleasure.
Maria Taylor has travelled from Hope Cove, outside LA, to New York City to become the Spa Manager at The Songbird Hotel after Griffin Parker came headhunting her. Griffin is passionate about the hotel that has been in his family for generations and has a tendency to keep very tight control over the running of his love, the hotel named after his actress grandmother. Maria finds his lack of trust in her decisions to be a huge deterrent in her ability to her new position. Griffin has a nasty habit of micro-managing that gets on her nerves, which makes her start to regret the move to New York. She also finds her new boss to be very distracting with his custom fit suits and devastating blue eyes. When there is a discrepancy with a supplier, he insinuates himself on her buying trip to the Bahamas. While the two of them are in the tropical paradise, the passion between them flares and they both get burned. Unfortunately, Griffin has been burned by a beautiful woman who worked for him before and he is very distrustful in his personal and business life. Eventually Griffin and Maria end up on the losing end of the battle to try and keep to business only as their close proximity to one another on a daily basis only tempts them more and more. They both fall deeply in love almost to the point of obsession. Griffin keeps telling Maria "You are mine" and she doesn't dispute that. But into each life storms will come. Will she still be his lighthouse leading him home or will they crash on the rocks and go down with the ship?
Dirty talking Griffin Parker takes on confident and beautiful Maria Taylor in this book that hit me right in the heart. It is filled with everything you could ask for: love, distrust, passion, mystery, a few tears and anger. Maria and Griffin will show you how it feels to go from one extreme to another. This couple fights the magnetism that exists between them, trying not to mix business with pleasure.
Maria Taylor has travelled from Hope Cove, outside LA, to New York City to become the Spa Manager at The Songbird Hotel after Griffin Parker came headhunting her. Griffin is passionate about the hotel that has been in his family for generations and has a tendency to keep very tight control over the running of his love, the hotel named after his actress grandmother. Maria finds his lack of trust in her decisions to be a huge deterrent in her ability to her new position. Griffin has a nasty habit of micro-managing that gets on her nerves, which makes her start to regret the move to New York. She also finds her new boss to be very distracting with his custom fit suits and devastating blue eyes. When there is a discrepancy with a supplier, he insinuates himself on her buying trip to the Bahamas. While the two of them are in the tropical paradise, the passion between them flares and they both get burned. Unfortunately, Griffin has been burned by a beautiful woman who worked for him before and he is very distrustful in his personal and business life. Eventually Griffin and Maria end up on the losing end of the battle to try and keep to business only as their close proximity to one another on a daily basis only tempts them more and more. They both fall deeply in love almost to the point of obsession. Griffin keeps telling Maria "You are mine" and she doesn't dispute that. But into each life storms will come. Will she still be his lighthouse leading him home or will they crash on the rocks and go down with the ship?
October 10, 2022
I really wanted to give this book a higher rating but it wasn't meant to be. A lot of this will be my preferences against why I didn't like this book as much. I think that Griffin and Maria are a good match for each other but the fact that he calls her "Sweetheart" was a complete turn-off for me. Also, when Maria shows up and talks about how nice and lovely people are in New York City it made me think that it was unrealistic. As someone who has lived in New York City, I can confirm that not everyone is as cheerful and nice, and lovely as they are in this book.
Maria is managing a spa in Griffin's hotel and it all seems to be going well. I am glad that the HR aspect of it was that it is an open dating policy because that gets a little cliche after a while. I think that Maria avoids Griffin a lot and it drags on a bit. When they do get together it is good but with Griffin's lack of trust in Maria he breaks her heart when he thinks that she sabotaged the spa. I wasn't all that surprised that it was Emily who was the culprit but what did surprise me was that she was in love with Griffin as family. In reality, she just wanted the attention of her father and her actions spiraled after years of being denied any affection.
The end when Griffin goes all "man wants woman" seemed over the top and also made me enjoy the book a little less. I think that the ending wrapped up a little too much like a Hallmark movie. This whole book has a pretty positive outlook throughout even in the darkest of moments when Griffin and Maria are apart. Overall, a good read for the spice and for the good moments in their relationship but everything else was not my favorite.
Maria is managing a spa in Griffin's hotel and it all seems to be going well. I am glad that the HR aspect of it was that it is an open dating policy because that gets a little cliche after a while. I think that Maria avoids Griffin a lot and it drags on a bit. When they do get together it is good but with Griffin's lack of trust in Maria he breaks her heart when he thinks that she sabotaged the spa. I wasn't all that surprised that it was Emily who was the culprit but what did surprise me was that she was in love with Griffin as family. In reality, she just wanted the attention of her father and her actions spiraled after years of being denied any affection.
The end when Griffin goes all "man wants woman" seemed over the top and also made me enjoy the book a little less. I think that the ending wrapped up a little too much like a Hallmark movie. This whole book has a pretty positive outlook throughout even in the darkest of moments when Griffin and Maria are apart. Overall, a good read for the spice and for the good moments in their relationship but everything else was not my favorite.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2022
Rating: 3.75 ⭐️
Spice: 3/5 🌶 good dirty talk, and lots of spice
Tropes: office romance, boss/employee, groveling, billionaire MMC, jealous, “mine”
This was pretty good. FMC is a spa manager and gets recruited by the MMC to update the spa at his hotel after the former spa manager/ex was fired. I liked the tension between the two and the jealous and possessiveness of the MMC. Both the characters have trust issues after being betrayed by former exes. He was pretty much in love at the start and I loved how she didn’t want to give in right away.
Cons: I saw the big twist coming from the beginning so the book felt a little boring. I also wish the romance was a slower burn. I wanted to develop that tension more. The FMC should have made MMC grovel more at end.
Spice: 3/5 🌶 good dirty talk, and lots of spice
Tropes: office romance, boss/employee, groveling, billionaire MMC, jealous, “mine”
This was pretty good. FMC is a spa manager and gets recruited by the MMC to update the spa at his hotel after the former spa manager/ex was fired. I liked the tension between the two and the jealous and possessiveness of the MMC. Both the characters have trust issues after being betrayed by former exes. He was pretty much in love at the start and I loved how she didn’t want to give in right away.
Cons: I saw the big twist coming from the beginning so the book felt a little boring. I also wish the romance was a slower burn. I wanted to develop that tension more. The FMC should have made MMC grovel more at end.
February 19, 2023
2.5
This book reminded me of a bad version of “The Stopover” by tl swan—which is ironic because tl swan is actually mentioned in this book. Anyway, it started out ok, but I felt absolutely no emotional connection to Maria or Griffin. The side characters are constantly talking about the chemistry between them, but I felt none of that. I found myself not caring if they got together at all. I kept reading because there is supposed to be some juicy drama towards the end but again, I just didn’t care. I actually thought his grovel was pretty good, I just wish I felt more emotional about it.
This book reminded me of a bad version of “The Stopover” by tl swan—which is ironic because tl swan is actually mentioned in this book. Anyway, it started out ok, but I felt absolutely no emotional connection to Maria or Griffin. The side characters are constantly talking about the chemistry between them, but I felt none of that. I found myself not caring if they got together at all. I kept reading because there is supposed to be some juicy drama towards the end but again, I just didn’t care. I actually thought his grovel was pretty good, I just wish I felt more emotional about it.
November 16, 2023
The birds should have gone one step further and picked this man up and dropped him in the middle of the ocean where he couldn’t terrorize another woman ever again
February 23, 2024
Please another title..
May 11, 2025
I don't know...
It was an.okay read about a boss who sleeps with his employees at least two that I read about but supposedly.Maria is the real deal until she's accused of a heinous crime and sabotage. And he believes it. He was a jerk. I just found the book okay. There is an HEA but I didn't feel that aaah feeling at the end like it was that good. But.it was still.okay and I believe that this is my first read for this author. She writes very well.
It was an.okay read about a boss who sleeps with his employees at least two that I read about but supposedly.Maria is the real deal until she's accused of a heinous crime and sabotage. And he believes it. He was a jerk. I just found the book okay. There is an HEA but I didn't feel that aaah feeling at the end like it was that good. But.it was still.okay and I believe that this is my first read for this author. She writes very well.
February 18, 2024
Contains: Possessive People, Bosshole, and Sabotage
After gaining her dream job, Maria moves to work at 'The Songbird' that Mr. Parker owns. Supposedly there was a whole thing about him headhunting her to ruin the spa in his hotel, but he doesn't let her do her job. There was constant micromanaging and questioning that it made even me feel uncomfortable. We get that his ex was somehow connected to secrets being leaked to a rival company, but if he didn't trust someone to take over, why hire her? I understand that this is supposed to build for the drama of the story, but with how long it took to resolve was a little much. Also, with everything that happens to Maria and the spa, he didn't grovel enough to make amends. She was going to have her life ruined, and he did the absolute bare minimum to try and communicate or heal the wounds she got emotionally and mentally. I didn't really even believe the whole reason why this all happened. The culprit should have gotten much worse, but he's 'such a good guy'. We really should have seen her be her own hero and make him do better.
In the end, I was left wanting something more than what we got. I had a lot of high hopes for them in the beginning, but the number of times that trust was broken even after constantly showing him that she was there for him was too much. The reason this is still a 2 is because I really did like the beginning, it did have some miscommunications that could have just been handled like adults. The other reason is that the spicy scenes were actually pretty alright. I guess that's the big thing in romance books: minimal communication which leads to a breakdown of the relationship.
Overall: ☀☀
Spice: ☀☀☀
Story: ☀☀☀
After gaining her dream job, Maria moves to work at 'The Songbird' that Mr. Parker owns. Supposedly there was a whole thing about him headhunting her to ruin the spa in his hotel, but he doesn't let her do her job. There was constant micromanaging and questioning that it made even me feel uncomfortable. We get that his ex was somehow connected to secrets being leaked to a rival company, but if he didn't trust someone to take over, why hire her? I understand that this is supposed to build for the drama of the story, but with how long it took to resolve was a little much. Also, with everything that happens to Maria and the spa, he didn't grovel enough to make amends. She was going to have her life ruined, and he did the absolute bare minimum to try and communicate or heal the wounds she got emotionally and mentally. I didn't really even believe the whole reason why this all happened. The culprit should have gotten much worse, but he's 'such a good guy'. We really should have seen her be her own hero and make him do better.
In the end, I was left wanting something more than what we got. I had a lot of high hopes for them in the beginning, but the number of times that trust was broken even after constantly showing him that she was there for him was too much. The reason this is still a 2 is because I really did like the beginning, it did have some miscommunications that could have just been handled like adults. The other reason is that the spicy scenes were actually pretty alright. I guess that's the big thing in romance books: minimal communication which leads to a breakdown of the relationship.
Overall: ☀☀
Spice: ☀☀☀
Story: ☀☀☀
July 6, 2022
I was privileged to receive an ARC of Pleasing Mr. Parker by Elle Nicoll. This was my first time reading a book by Elle, but it won’t be my last.
Elle, tells the story of Griffin and Maria. Both are smart, strong willed and forces within their respective fields. A job change brings Maria to Griffin’s hotel in NYC as the new manager of the Spa. Maria has no problem going toe to toe with her new boss and his meddling ways. Maria and Griffin both carry around a lot of baggage due to past disappointments and abandonments. These insecurities are what will be the driving force of their character transformations and do they ever go through transformations together and separately.
Through their working relationship they recognize that there is a spark that is more from an instance attraction than just a mutual annoyance for each other. It was beautiful watching the two of these characters learn to love and trust again. Maria was an amazing FMC with a smart head on her shoulders and Griffin was the perfect mix of swoon and alphahole! The side characters held a fabulous chemistry with each other and often times gave some levity within more serious moments.
I 100% recommend this book and will be reading the rest of her series. Mr. Parker was surely a book boyfriend I am glad to have met. I also have to add that Griffin Parker’s mouth is top freaking notch!
Elle, tells the story of Griffin and Maria. Both are smart, strong willed and forces within their respective fields. A job change brings Maria to Griffin’s hotel in NYC as the new manager of the Spa. Maria has no problem going toe to toe with her new boss and his meddling ways. Maria and Griffin both carry around a lot of baggage due to past disappointments and abandonments. These insecurities are what will be the driving force of their character transformations and do they ever go through transformations together and separately.
Through their working relationship they recognize that there is a spark that is more from an instance attraction than just a mutual annoyance for each other. It was beautiful watching the two of these characters learn to love and trust again. Maria was an amazing FMC with a smart head on her shoulders and Griffin was the perfect mix of swoon and alphahole! The side characters held a fabulous chemistry with each other and often times gave some levity within more serious moments.
I 100% recommend this book and will be reading the rest of her series. Mr. Parker was surely a book boyfriend I am glad to have met. I also have to add that Griffin Parker’s mouth is top freaking notch!
July 5, 2022
OH MY EVER LOVIN' SEXY HELL! I have a ton of book boyfriends, but seriously, Griffin Parker has topped the list! Look I'm not a girl who uses this word ever but with his dirty talking protective ways, he was absolutely 100% swoon worthy in my eyes. Griffin headhunts Maria to manage the spa in his hotel, and she can't refuse that offer so off to NY she goes. These two people have an intense connection from the jump but both have real trust issues from past relationships so she's doing everything she can to stay away from him. Things take a sexy turn when they're on a work trip in the Bahamas, and it's game over. Let me tell you, these sexy times are HOT HOT HOT, like fan yourselves kind of HOT, making it impossible for these two to ever truly stay away from each other. This book is perfect with just their relationship journey but there's more, there's a mystery with twists coming in hot AND a perfect supporting cast so let me be clear, HIT THOSE ONE CLICK BUTTONS NOW because it will be worth it as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 5, 2022
**4.5/5 rating**
Pleasing Mr. Parker is book 5 in Elle Nicholl’s The Men Series. It’s deliciously sweet and extra spicy.
Griffin is a control freak and likes everything done a certain way. When the new spa manager sets foot in his hotel sparks fly as she continuously stomps on his control.
When Maria is headhunted by the owner of The Songbird hotel to head their spa, flying across the country to do so was the easy part. Going head to head with Mr. Parker is something else entirely.
When the lines between business and pleasure begin to blur…Maria will have to choose between guarding her heart or pleasing Mr. Parker.
I loved Maria and Griffin. From his grumpy demeanor to her sweetness. Each had their own set of personal demons they had to work through first. Their banter is hilarious. Once they decided to go for it, it was perfect.
Pleasing Mr. Parker is book 5 in Elle Nicholl’s The Men Series. It’s deliciously sweet and extra spicy.
Griffin is a control freak and likes everything done a certain way. When the new spa manager sets foot in his hotel sparks fly as she continuously stomps on his control.
When Maria is headhunted by the owner of The Songbird hotel to head their spa, flying across the country to do so was the easy part. Going head to head with Mr. Parker is something else entirely.
When the lines between business and pleasure begin to blur…Maria will have to choose between guarding her heart or pleasing Mr. Parker.
I loved Maria and Griffin. From his grumpy demeanor to her sweetness. Each had their own set of personal demons they had to work through first. Their banter is hilarious. Once they decided to go for it, it was perfect.
July 5, 2022
Another great read!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: office romance; boss/employee
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy:🔥🔥🔥
Another great read in Elle Nicoll's The Men Series. Pleasing Mr. Parker is the 5th book in the series and can be read as a standalone, but best enjoyed when read in series order.
Pleasing Mr. Parker is a steamy office romance set with two people who have been betrayed by people close to them and both struggle with trust issues that will test their love. Wonderful storyline despite it being a little slow at points. It is well written with fantastic character development and characters you fall in love with. Elle's characters always have a ton of chemistry and Pleasing Mr. Parker did not disappoint! Super looking forward to the next book in the series! The MMC seems like he's going to be a trip!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: office romance; boss/employee
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy:🔥🔥🔥
Another great read in Elle Nicoll's The Men Series. Pleasing Mr. Parker is the 5th book in the series and can be read as a standalone, but best enjoyed when read in series order.
Pleasing Mr. Parker is a steamy office romance set with two people who have been betrayed by people close to them and both struggle with trust issues that will test their love. Wonderful storyline despite it being a little slow at points. It is well written with fantastic character development and characters you fall in love with. Elle's characters always have a ton of chemistry and Pleasing Mr. Parker did not disappoint! Super looking forward to the next book in the series! The MMC seems like he's going to be a trip!
September 8, 2023
4.5 stars!
This story was so amazingly beautiful. I did not expect it to touch me and my cold, dead heart the way it did. Gosh, Maria and Griffin’s chemistry was out of this world. Of course, they played off the hate thing for a bit but it soon turned into a burning passion and all consuming love. I loved especially the flair between the characters. They really got to know one other and their inner monologues on what they thought of the other… was so simple yet honest. And the spicy scenes!! The connection the author displayed between the two of them was so intense and pure love. I couldn’t handle it!! It gave me tummy flutters. I felt it in my heart. And those dang BIRDS!! Hahaha I was dying laughing!! I’ll never forget this. It’s become stop favorite. And Nicoll has become a new favorite author.
This story was so amazingly beautiful. I did not expect it to touch me and my cold, dead heart the way it did. Gosh, Maria and Griffin’s chemistry was out of this world. Of course, they played off the hate thing for a bit but it soon turned into a burning passion and all consuming love. I loved especially the flair between the characters. They really got to know one other and their inner monologues on what they thought of the other… was so simple yet honest. And the spicy scenes!! The connection the author displayed between the two of them was so intense and pure love. I couldn’t handle it!! It gave me tummy flutters. I felt it in my heart. And those dang BIRDS!! Hahaha I was dying laughing!! I’ll never forget this. It’s become stop favorite. And Nicoll has become a new favorite author.
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