What do you think?
Rate this book
Gorgeous, Armed, and Dangerous #1
Not Just Another Pretty Face
Lianne is tired of fighting and being passed over. Everyone loves her strength, intelligence, and work ethic, but not enough to keep her around. Well, not without some major drawbacks. She’s never changed herself for anyone before, and she’s not going to start now.
Not wanting to rely on her family name, she trudges on, putting her best efforts toward everything she tackles - be it at the gun range, in the office, or regarding her love life. That last one might not get the most attention, but when your last relationship ended with an abduction attempt, you’d put that on ice, too.
Accused of spending too much time alone with his sketchbook and baking, Ben’s best friend drags him out to a costume party. A blond beauty catches his eye, and even though he knows she’s dressed up, there’s a gentle vulnerability underneath the character that calls to him. She leaves before he can get her number, and he regrets the lost opportunity.
Outside of his personal life struggles, Ben is tired of training new employees at the design firm he works for. Something is going on to cause the turnover rate, but no one is talking. He’s informed yet another new person is being brought into the office, and everyone hopes they stay longer than the last three. The next week, a stunning and brilliant woman walks in.
Then everything goes sideways - sabotaged files at work, physical attacks in the parking garage, and dodging bullets in an alley.
Who knew a kiss with a stranger would change everything?
Content warning:
Not Just Another Pretty Face is a suspense romance, and some of the elements have some mafia flair to them. That being said, there is violence in this book, including but not limited to an abduction attempt, reference to a sexual assault, physical violence, and gun violence.
Not wanting to rely on her family name, she trudges on, putting her best efforts toward everything she tackles - be it at the gun range, in the office, or regarding her love life. That last one might not get the most attention, but when your last relationship ended with an abduction attempt, you’d put that on ice, too.
Accused of spending too much time alone with his sketchbook and baking, Ben’s best friend drags him out to a costume party. A blond beauty catches his eye, and even though he knows she’s dressed up, there’s a gentle vulnerability underneath the character that calls to him. She leaves before he can get her number, and he regrets the lost opportunity.
Outside of his personal life struggles, Ben is tired of training new employees at the design firm he works for. Something is going on to cause the turnover rate, but no one is talking. He’s informed yet another new person is being brought into the office, and everyone hopes they stay longer than the last three. The next week, a stunning and brilliant woman walks in.
Then everything goes sideways - sabotaged files at work, physical attacks in the parking garage, and dodging bullets in an alley.
Who knew a kiss with a stranger would change everything?
Content warning:
Not Just Another Pretty Face is a suspense romance, and some of the elements have some mafia flair to them. That being said, there is violence in this book, including but not limited to an abduction attempt, reference to a sexual assault, physical violence, and gun violence.
432 pages, Paperback
Published June 28, 2022
17 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Elisabeth Garner
24 books62 followersHey everyone and welcome to my little corner of the world. I’m glad you’re here!
I’m just a quirky, nerdy lady writing stories that are begging to be put on paper. I live in an adorable, little town in Indiana with my amazing husband, our adorable daughter, and our two cats.
When I’m not holed up in my office, you can find me reading, drinking coffee and tea, hanging out with my family and friends, baking, working on DIY projects around the house, and playing D&D.
I have been obsessed with reading and writing from a very young age. Growing up, it was all about The Baby Sitter Club and then Harry Potter and then The Arrows of the Queen. I started writing my first novel in high school, my second novel in college, and after teaching for a while and starting a family, I decided to tackle the dream of becoming an author. The rest is history.
You’ll find my bookshelves filled with everything from YA to historical fiction to romance to classics to sci-fi and fantasy to mental health. It’s a mixed bag and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I hope to see you around!
You can find out more about me and my work on my website or @booksbyemgarner on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
I’m just a quirky, nerdy lady writing stories that are begging to be put on paper. I live in an adorable, little town in Indiana with my amazing husband, our adorable daughter, and our two cats.
When I’m not holed up in my office, you can find me reading, drinking coffee and tea, hanging out with my family and friends, baking, working on DIY projects around the house, and playing D&D.
I have been obsessed with reading and writing from a very young age. Growing up, it was all about The Baby Sitter Club and then Harry Potter and then The Arrows of the Queen. I started writing my first novel in high school, my second novel in college, and after teaching for a while and starting a family, I decided to tackle the dream of becoming an author. The rest is history.
You’ll find my bookshelves filled with everything from YA to historical fiction to romance to classics to sci-fi and fantasy to mental health. It’s a mixed bag and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I hope to see you around!
You can find out more about me and my work on my website or @booksbyemgarner on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 22, 2022
Lianne and Ben, one enigma after the other. Their adorable love story brings at a costume party. A costume party neither of them particularly wanted to be at, a costume party at which they failed to get each other’s contact info, let alone names.
Cue Monday morning, Lianne starts working in Ben’s office, yet neither of them are aware. No more than anyone is aware of just what family Lianne hails from.
This romance is fast paced, full of adrenaline and true to form absolutely adorable.
I loved that Bernie and Charlie made an appearance and that while this is the first book of a new series, the characters we met and fell in love with during love prevails are still ever present in small ways.
This book has quickly gone to the top of my favorites list.
Cue Monday morning, Lianne starts working in Ben’s office, yet neither of them are aware. No more than anyone is aware of just what family Lianne hails from.
This romance is fast paced, full of adrenaline and true to form absolutely adorable.
I loved that Bernie and Charlie made an appearance and that while this is the first book of a new series, the characters we met and fell in love with during love prevails are still ever present in small ways.
This book has quickly gone to the top of my favorites list.
July 1, 2022
I have to say, I only put this book down when I absolutely had to. I loved seeing old faces mixing with new! Ben and Lianne’s story is so good. This book reads like a cross between a contemporary romance and a thriller. We get witty banter to make you laugh and then we get high stakes mystery revolving a hostile work place and old grudges. While I know this book is a stand alone I’m still looking forward to the next book in the series when we get to read about Lianne’s brother Lukas. And see where the story takes us.
September 19, 2022
As always, you get the sweet from Elisabeth, but this time, she added some spice along with shoot-outs, mystery, suspense, action, and some kickass female energy.
Loved how Lianne had trauma but she didn't let that stop her from being strong.
Ben was a sweetheart, calming force, but he didn't try to take over or take her power.
Fantastic book! Can't wait for the next one!
Loved how Lianne had trauma but she didn't let that stop her from being strong.
Ben was a sweetheart, calming force, but he didn't try to take over or take her power.
Fantastic book! Can't wait for the next one!
June 24, 2023
Great story. Really loved the banter
November 4, 2022
Romance, mystery and suspense OH my
When her best friend convinces her to go to the costume party Lianne meets a man that makes her want to step out of her comfort zone and into his arms. They are both so wrapped up in the moment though that when she leaves they both forget to exchange names or contact info. When Li starts her new temp job on Monday and meets Ben there is an moment of familiarity about him but she just can't place her finger on it, and she wants to make this a full time position so she pushes it aside to jump into work. Not everyone likes her go get it attitude and determination and the sabotage and suspense begins.
Li is rhe perfect blend of normal everyday female and gun toting bad ass willing to do whatever it takes to protect those she loves. She's not the normal female badass that you see in a lot of stories. You get to see both sides of the coin with her which only made her a much more likable character in my opinion.
Ben is compassionate, protective, and loves to bake. Even though everything in him wants to protect Li he picks up very quickly when to also step back and just watch as the woman he loves protects herself.
The slow burn between Ben and Li was phenomenally written and didn't leave you ready to scream would the two of you just kiss already.
When her best friend convinces her to go to the costume party Lianne meets a man that makes her want to step out of her comfort zone and into his arms. They are both so wrapped up in the moment though that when she leaves they both forget to exchange names or contact info. When Li starts her new temp job on Monday and meets Ben there is an moment of familiarity about him but she just can't place her finger on it, and she wants to make this a full time position so she pushes it aside to jump into work. Not everyone likes her go get it attitude and determination and the sabotage and suspense begins.
Li is rhe perfect blend of normal everyday female and gun toting bad ass willing to do whatever it takes to protect those she loves. She's not the normal female badass that you see in a lot of stories. You get to see both sides of the coin with her which only made her a much more likable character in my opinion.
Ben is compassionate, protective, and loves to bake. Even though everything in him wants to protect Li he picks up very quickly when to also step back and just watch as the woman he loves protects herself.
The slow burn between Ben and Li was phenomenally written and didn't leave you ready to scream would the two of you just kiss already.
December 23, 2022
This was an amazing book! The action and the suspense was beautifully done. I might be a little in love with Ben, and I think I wanna be adopted by Momma Agosti! This was a BRILLIANT beginning to the Gorgeous, Armed, and Dangerous series and I cannot wait for the next installments of the series! Keep em coming!!
November 11, 2025
A beautiful story about a mafia daughter trying to find herself and her own independence. It’s a slow burn not super spicy but really good . Frank kicked ass and Jack was awful.
December 28, 2022
Awesome!
This was an awesome story with relatable characters to fall in love with. No stone went unturned during their psychological journey together. The growth was incredible to watch unfold. Definitely recommended.
This was an awesome story with relatable characters to fall in love with. No stone went unturned during their psychological journey together. The growth was incredible to watch unfold. Definitely recommended.
July 13, 2022
I'm not sure what I was expecting but it wasn't this beautiful tale of two unsuspecting people falling in love after a night stepping outside of their comfort zones. The slow burn in this book didn't make me feel like I was losing my mind waiting for them to get the point because their climb was so beautiful to watch.
Lianne has got to be one of the most fascinating conundrums of characters. She's both sweet and innocent while also being a gun toting bad ass. Really enjoyed watching her flourish under the loving light that was her family and friends. Even without the romance just sitting back and watching Jay and Lukas love on her was enough for me.
Ben really was a perfect match for her. Even though he's definitely the boy next door with the past he can't quite escape he's also just as much of a conundrum as Lianne. Equal parts good boy and protective all wrapped in a yummy package.
The side characters in this book are the real gold mine. Blake and Ellen who have her back no matter what goes down in the office. Jay and Lukas who even though one of them is family act like she's the literal center of their universes.
Please give it a read. Could not put this down and didn't have any wants to do so anyways.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lianne has got to be one of the most fascinating conundrums of characters. She's both sweet and innocent while also being a gun toting bad ass. Really enjoyed watching her flourish under the loving light that was her family and friends. Even without the romance just sitting back and watching Jay and Lukas love on her was enough for me.
Ben really was a perfect match for her. Even though he's definitely the boy next door with the past he can't quite escape he's also just as much of a conundrum as Lianne. Equal parts good boy and protective all wrapped in a yummy package.
The side characters in this book are the real gold mine. Blake and Ellen who have her back no matter what goes down in the office. Jay and Lukas who even though one of them is family act like she's the literal center of their universes.
Please give it a read. Could not put this down and didn't have any wants to do so anyways.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2022
Ben and Lianne’s story is so good. This book reads like a cross between a contemporary romance and a thriller. We get witty banter to make you laugh and then we get high stakes mystery revolving a hostile work place and old grudges.
Their adorable love story brings at a costume party. A costume party neither of them particularly wanted to be at, a costume party at which they failed to get each other’s contact info, let alone names.
Loved how Lianne had trauma but she didn't let that stop her from being strong.
Ben was a sweetheart, calming force, but he didn't try to take over or take her power.
Their adorable love story brings at a costume party. A costume party neither of them particularly wanted to be at, a costume party at which they failed to get each other’s contact info, let alone names.
Loved how Lianne had trauma but she didn't let that stop her from being strong.
Ben was a sweetheart, calming force, but he didn't try to take over or take her power.
June 20, 2022
Lianne and Ben meet at a costume party but never exchanged information. Unbeknownst to them they are now working together. As their friendship grows Lianne discovers that she is being sabotaged at work. Lianne is a strong capable woman who not only rescues herself but Ben as well. This book focuses on friends and family, trust, past trauma, love and mental health.
There are triggers but they are listed at the front of the book.
I can’t say enough about my love for this book
There are triggers but they are listed at the front of the book.
I can’t say enough about my love for this book
November 21, 2022
We love re-meeting Quinn again and following her into her new life. And Lukas, another favorite of ours , is the best second main character and fit for Quinn. The twists and turns of the plot kept us glued to the book and kept us up late getting to the end. Made us laugh and gasp... and we enjoyed every romantic page.
July 12, 2022
This book started of so intriguing and fast paced! It did slow down a little in the middle but for good reason. The ending was what brought it to 4 stars for me. E. Garner has such a unique style I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!!
September 16, 2024
Pretty amazing start to a series. I’m excited to read the next one and have already started.
Ben and Lianne come together as a mystery turned coworkers turned lovers. I love that Jess is such a great friend to want to see her bestie in a good relationship. We all need a Jess in our lives. I love the mystery involving Jack/Joker, Max and how there is obviously more to the familia than we have read so far.
Ben and Lianne come together as a mystery turned coworkers turned lovers. I love that Jess is such a great friend to want to see her bestie in a good relationship. We all need a Jess in our lives. I love the mystery involving Jack/Joker, Max and how there is obviously more to the familia than we have read so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2024
This was a bit of a long one but so worth it! I loved Ben and Lianne. Jess is like best friend goals and Lukas is THE best kind of protective brother. The spice is minimal but sooo good after that slow burn. I think Ben’s stress baking and his moms are some of my favorite scenes. If you need me I’ll be starting the second one now lol
November 5, 2025
Okay, this one got me…
It’s a slow burn, but it has a purpose, and nothing drags just for the sake of drama. The writing’s smooth and confident. It’s got tension, EMOTION, and just enough heat to keep you hooked. It’s a ride worth taking! Ben is an incredible MMC and Lianne is honestly such a strong FMC. Her growth throughout the story is amazing to see.
It’s a slow burn, but it has a purpose, and nothing drags just for the sake of drama. The writing’s smooth and confident. It’s got tension, EMOTION, and just enough heat to keep you hooked. It’s a ride worth taking! Ben is an incredible MMC and Lianne is honestly such a strong FMC. Her growth throughout the story is amazing to see.
July 23, 2023
Wow
This is an amazing story! Leanne is one tough cookie and a bit of a basket case. I can totally relate. Ben is the epitome of a kindhearted, understanding gentleman. Can't wait to read the next one!
This is an amazing story! Leanne is one tough cookie and a bit of a basket case. I can totally relate. Ben is the epitome of a kindhearted, understanding gentleman. Can't wait to read the next one!
Want to read
June 26, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/26/2023)! 🎁
Want to read
November 3, 2023Amz Prch. Oct. 31, 2023
August 12, 2024
When I tell you that I am so impressed by this book, it is not a drill. The dynamic characters make this read one of the top books this year. I am on love with the banter, growth and relatability of the characters. I struggled to put this book down.
November 8, 2025
I love this! Holy smokes it’s perfect I enjoy a strong female character!!! Plus everything in between!!!!
Doing a reread:
I enjoyed reading and seeing each character grow. Seeing them over come struggles and challenges!
Still absolutely love this book!!!
Doing a reread:
I enjoyed reading and seeing each character grow. Seeing them over come struggles and challenges!
Still absolutely love this book!!!
November 23, 2022
This book was such a journey to write.
I'd only read one other romance book that had a neurodivergent main character, and I didn't know how much I'd been missing seeing someone 'like myself' in the driver's seat. Inspired by that author, I dove into writing this.
Like her, I intentionally never put a diagnosis or formal treatment plan in the book. That wasn't the purpose of this story. Lianne is a complicated woman, struggling with maintaining the balance of what is socially acceptable and staying true to yourself. I wanted to show off her day-to-day struggle (with being neurodivergent as well as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field), how integral an amazing support system is, and give an example of what a good one looks like.
Why the shift to suspense romance for this series? I've recently discovered how much I love the genre and wanted to give it a go. Despite chaos and drama, everyone needs a happily ever after.
I'd only read one other romance book that had a neurodivergent main character, and I didn't know how much I'd been missing seeing someone 'like myself' in the driver's seat. Inspired by that author, I dove into writing this.
Like her, I intentionally never put a diagnosis or formal treatment plan in the book. That wasn't the purpose of this story. Lianne is a complicated woman, struggling with maintaining the balance of what is socially acceptable and staying true to yourself. I wanted to show off her day-to-day struggle (with being neurodivergent as well as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field), how integral an amazing support system is, and give an example of what a good one looks like.
Why the shift to suspense romance for this series? I've recently discovered how much I love the genre and wanted to give it a go. Despite chaos and drama, everyone needs a happily ever after.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews