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Hollywood Bachelors #1
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain
Jackson Kane is a hot Hollywood A-lister… and the first guy I ever loved. We spent a magical summer together ten years ago, but now he’s off dazzling on the red carpet, and I’m… up to my elbows in cranky plumbing, renovating my grandparents’ old B&B on Cape Cod. He’s the last man I’d expect to run into with a wet T-shirt and no bra (don’t ask) — until it turns out, he’s shooting his latest movie right here in Blackberry Cove.
And he wants me back.
There’s no way I’m getting swept up in his celebrity circus… until my bitchy cousin lays claim to our family heirloom engagement ring, and I need a fake boyfriend to beat her game. A handsome charmer with perfect acting chops… Now where can I find one of those…?
It’s supposed to be just for show, but Jackson is determined to show me our chemistry is just as strong as ever. And boy, is he impossible to resist. But between movie shenanigans, stroppy starlets, and - oh yes - the hoards of paparazzi suddenly trailing our every move, this fake date is more real than I ever imagined.
Can we find a way to take a second chance at first love?
And he wants me back.
There’s no way I’m getting swept up in his celebrity circus… until my bitchy cousin lays claim to our family heirloom engagement ring, and I need a fake boyfriend to beat her game. A handsome charmer with perfect acting chops… Now where can I find one of those…?
It’s supposed to be just for show, but Jackson is determined to show me our chemistry is just as strong as ever. And boy, is he impossible to resist. But between movie shenanigans, stroppy starlets, and - oh yes - the hoards of paparazzi suddenly trailing our every move, this fake date is more real than I ever imagined.
Can we find a way to take a second chance at first love?
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2023
593 people are currently reading
784 people want to read
About the author
Lila Monroe
57 books1,942 followersCombining her love of writing, sex and well-fitted suits, Lila Monroe wrote The Billionaire Bargain. Lila enjoys writing, as it gives her a flexible schedule to spend time with her kids and a wonderful excuse to avoid them. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, who strips out of his well-fitted suits nightly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
May 21, 2024
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was enjoyable and pleasant, this second chance at love story has everything you look for in a rom com, humour and feelings interwine perfectly on a movie set, located in a charming small town.
After a bad break up that left Tessa pennyless and alone, she is back to her grandparents' small town to get her life back on track, renovating their bed & breakfast. Jackson is back to Blackberry Cove to try and rekindle his relationship with Tessa, they spent an incredible Summer together before he went to LA becoming a Hollywood brilliant actor.
Jackson and Tessa are well matched, you can feel their attraction and the feels they have for each other. Their banter and interactions kept me smile. Tessa's doubts to start a relationship with a famous actor and lose her independence and her dreams are understandable and they can be shared, but I loved Jackson's tenacity to show her their relationship could work, because at the end of the day they still are the young kids who fell in love eating ice creams years before.
I always recommend any book written by Lila Monroe. I absolutely adore her writing, her positive characters, and the lovely atmosphere that permeates her syories.
April 23, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 4/5
Fake Marriage Where the Movie Star Falls First in a small hometown in the Cape couldn't describe this book any better. I am a sucker for every single one of these tropes.
Lila Monroe is one of my favorite authors, and I couldn't have been more excited about getting a free copy. I'm so grateful, because I honestly couldn't wait any longer to read this beauty. Even though I got a free copy, that had not a darn thing with anything I'm about to say about this book. It just only reinforces my love for this author and her craft.
Lila never fails me when it comes to one of her books, she knows exactly how to develop her characters and the atmosphere they are in for each book. I love the B+B in the Cape theme so much I can just picture the whole town. And nothing makes small town any better than a success story coming back to town.
Jackson was such a wonderful character, I loved how much he loved Tessa and their hometown. He knew what he wanted and didn't back down from the scaries that can ruin so much in so little time. He was so thoughtful, he made sure that Tessa knew he loved her and often. Even in the times when words couldn't get the message across perfectly.
Tessa is such a sweet and caring person, who wants nothing more than to be happy in her present and future so that she could put her unhappy past behind her. After realizing how much help she would need for that happiness she had the opportunity of a lifetime. Finding out how much she loved Jackson after all these years. And a couple of extra added bonuses along the way.
I have to say the ending was a little disappointing. I was hoping for a different outcome but I'm still holding out hope to see their journey through the series!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 4/5
Fake Marriage Where the Movie Star Falls First in a small hometown in the Cape couldn't describe this book any better. I am a sucker for every single one of these tropes.
Lila Monroe is one of my favorite authors, and I couldn't have been more excited about getting a free copy. I'm so grateful, because I honestly couldn't wait any longer to read this beauty. Even though I got a free copy, that had not a darn thing with anything I'm about to say about this book. It just only reinforces my love for this author and her craft.
Lila never fails me when it comes to one of her books, she knows exactly how to develop her characters and the atmosphere they are in for each book. I love the B+B in the Cape theme so much I can just picture the whole town. And nothing makes small town any better than a success story coming back to town.
Jackson was such a wonderful character, I loved how much he loved Tessa and their hometown. He knew what he wanted and didn't back down from the scaries that can ruin so much in so little time. He was so thoughtful, he made sure that Tessa knew he loved her and often. Even in the times when words couldn't get the message across perfectly.
Tessa is such a sweet and caring person, who wants nothing more than to be happy in her present and future so that she could put her unhappy past behind her. After realizing how much help she would need for that happiness she had the opportunity of a lifetime. Finding out how much she loved Jackson after all these years. And a couple of extra added bonuses along the way.
I have to say the ending was a little disappointing. I was hoping for a different outcome but I'm still holding out hope to see their journey through the series!
April 24, 2023
What a fabulous start to a new series! This is the introduction of some new characters. The focus of this one is Jackson and Tessa.
Tessa is starting over; her life before was in shambles, and she is trying to make a better future for herself. She is strong yet has a vulnerability that she doesn’t like to show.
Enter Tessa’s long-ago summer romance, Jackson. Now he is a huge upcoming movie star. And he wants what he had that summer all those years ago, and he wants to make it more.
In true Lila Monroe fashion, you get heart, heat, and hilarity with this new story. You get fantastic side characters that bring a richness to the world that Ms. Monroe has created in Blackberry Cove.
I can’t wait to see what comes next from the talented mind of this amazing author!
Tessa is starting over; her life before was in shambles, and she is trying to make a better future for herself. She is strong yet has a vulnerability that she doesn’t like to show.
Enter Tessa’s long-ago summer romance, Jackson. Now he is a huge upcoming movie star. And he wants what he had that summer all those years ago, and he wants to make it more.
In true Lila Monroe fashion, you get heart, heat, and hilarity with this new story. You get fantastic side characters that bring a richness to the world that Ms. Monroe has created in Blackberry Cove.
I can’t wait to see what comes next from the talented mind of this amazing author!
April 24, 2023
Who doesn't love a good second chance romance! This one was done so delightfully! I am sucker for a small town romance and this did not let me down! Tessa and Jackson had great chemistry and even though a lot of time has passed since they last seen each other it did not lessen the feelings that they had for each other. I felt Tessa's doubts were reasonable but really enjoyed Jackson's determination. Overall I found this book to be enjoyable. I enjoyed the banter, humor and romance. If you are looking for a second chance, small town, fake dating, romance this is your book!
~Reemah💜
~Reemah💜
April 25, 2023
I haven't read a book by Lila Monroe is a while. I forgot how much I enjoy her writing! Jackson is a hot movie star who arranges for his newest film to be set in the little coastal town where he fell in love with Tessa about 10 years ago before he made it big in Hollywood. He wants her back. I get Tessa's reluctance to be with Jackson at this point in her life. Yes, he was her first love but they've both grown up and into different people. Or have they?
This was fun and cute and thoroughly enjoyable!
This was fun and cute and thoroughly enjoyable!
May 16, 2023
Leitura feita através de um ARC cedido para uma resenha honesta.
4.5 ⭐ rounded up to 5 ⭐
Tessa Ritchie voltou para sua cidade natal após rompimento do seu último relacionamento, e morando com o avô ela toma a decisão de usar suas economias para reformar a pousada dos avós. O que parecia fácil se torna um trabalho enorme como o cano quebrado inundando a cozinha. Ela não esperava que seu antigo namoradinho, Jackson Kane, iria encontrá-la ali encharcada e usando sutiã dos Minions. Ele está em Blackberry Cove para filmar um romance, e apesar dele querer sair com ela, Tessa sabe que nada de bom virá em sair com um ator de Hollywood.
Sua missão é ficar longe de Jackson, mas a produção quer usar a pousada para as filmagens e essa é a oportunidade que ela tem para ter o lugar reformado. As coisas pioram quando sua prima esnobe quer o anel de noivado que foi da sua avó, e Tessa não pode deixar que ela destrua essa herança. Para impedir isso, ela pede que Jackson finja ser seu namorado e ele vê nisso a oportunidade de mostrar para ela que eles podem ter um futuro juntos.
A Tessa tem insegurança quando se trata de relacionamentos, ela deixou tudo para trás para seguir seu ex-namorado e não quer repetir o mesmo erro. Ela quer criar algo seguro em Blackberry Cove e estar perto do avô. Apesar de toda a fama e dos anos que passaram, Jackson não esqueceu o verão que passou ao lado de Tessa dez anos antes, e estar perto dela é a chance que ele tem de ter a mulher dos seus sonhos. Eu amei a forma como o relacionamento deles foi desenvolvido, passando por momentos divertidos, quentes e dramas necessários para que tudo pudesse ficar bem.
Por ser o primeiro de uma nova série, ficou claro que vários personagens que apareceram aqui serão protagonistas dos próximos livros. Essa foi minha primeira experiência com um romance da Lila Monroe e eu amei a escrita dela, já quero ler outros romances da autora e os próximos dessa série.
4.5 ⭐ rounded up to 5 ⭐
Tessa Ritchie voltou para sua cidade natal após rompimento do seu último relacionamento, e morando com o avô ela toma a decisão de usar suas economias para reformar a pousada dos avós. O que parecia fácil se torna um trabalho enorme como o cano quebrado inundando a cozinha. Ela não esperava que seu antigo namoradinho, Jackson Kane, iria encontrá-la ali encharcada e usando sutiã dos Minions. Ele está em Blackberry Cove para filmar um romance, e apesar dele querer sair com ela, Tessa sabe que nada de bom virá em sair com um ator de Hollywood.
Sua missão é ficar longe de Jackson, mas a produção quer usar a pousada para as filmagens e essa é a oportunidade que ela tem para ter o lugar reformado. As coisas pioram quando sua prima esnobe quer o anel de noivado que foi da sua avó, e Tessa não pode deixar que ela destrua essa herança. Para impedir isso, ela pede que Jackson finja ser seu namorado e ele vê nisso a oportunidade de mostrar para ela que eles podem ter um futuro juntos.
A Tessa tem insegurança quando se trata de relacionamentos, ela deixou tudo para trás para seguir seu ex-namorado e não quer repetir o mesmo erro. Ela quer criar algo seguro em Blackberry Cove e estar perto do avô. Apesar de toda a fama e dos anos que passaram, Jackson não esqueceu o verão que passou ao lado de Tessa dez anos antes, e estar perto dela é a chance que ele tem de ter a mulher dos seus sonhos. Eu amei a forma como o relacionamento deles foi desenvolvido, passando por momentos divertidos, quentes e dramas necessários para que tudo pudesse ficar bem.
Por ser o primeiro de uma nova série, ficou claro que vários personagens que apareceram aqui serão protagonistas dos próximos livros. Essa foi minha primeira experiência com um romance da Lila Monroe e eu amei a escrita dela, já quero ler outros romances da autora e os próximos dessa série.
June 29, 2024
4.5⭐️
April 25, 2023
This is a lively, gentle read which brought smiles and warmth in spades. Set in an idyllic seaside town, Blackberry Cove, it is a second chance romance com, pitting together Jackson, Hollywood star on an upward trajectory, and Tessa, back in town to both lick her wounds and to restore her grandparents B&B, Sandpiper. Throw in best friends, a bustling film crew, and a gorgeous setting, and the scene is set for some delightful banter, rekindling of past feelings and all-around fabulous reading. Loved it! 💖💖💖💖💖
October 19, 2024
Premise: fire. Execution: mid.
I have read an uncountable number of Lila Monroe books because they are available for free on my reading app.
Her premises always suck me in but man what a letdown. I loved loved loved that the guy came back to this town for her. But not enough time was spent exploring what made their past relationship so good. Also, the fake dating plot was completely stupid and unnecessary.
I wish wish someone who is a better writer wrote a story like this: celebrity makes it big but always looks back because of that one special girl from his past. I mean…swoon!!
Overall readable just not very intellectually stimulating. Too much sex not enough talking to build the relationship. Okay bye.
I have read an uncountable number of Lila Monroe books because they are available for free on my reading app.
Her premises always suck me in but man what a letdown. I loved loved loved that the guy came back to this town for her. But not enough time was spent exploring what made their past relationship so good. Also, the fake dating plot was completely stupid and unnecessary.
I wish wish someone who is a better writer wrote a story like this: celebrity makes it big but always looks back because of that one special girl from his past. I mean…swoon!!
Overall readable just not very intellectually stimulating. Too much sex not enough talking to build the relationship. Okay bye.
January 9, 2024
i truly have no words for this one. you’re telling me this man DROPPED THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFE TIME FOR THE FMC??? EVEN AFTER SHE WOULDNT COMMUNICATE WITH HIM ABOUT WHY SHE COULDNT GO WITH HIM?!?!! SHE JUST STOPPED TALKING TO HIM AND WAS SULKING. me personally? i wouldn’t stand for that. this book was free for me to read and i want compensation for the time i spent reading this book. the only positive thing about this book was how short it was, making it an easy add to my reading goal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 19, 2024These 3 stars are only for the HERO ! I disliked the heroine a lot, she was annoying and this is not really true love, I feel that he gave up too much only because of her insecurities. She would have easily given up on him without a fight and really doing nothing… BUT of course since he made the big gesture (even if he did nothing but love her) she changed her mind, this is so ridiculous ! 😳
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2024
I would’ve given this 5 stars, but I’m not a fan of GD (God’s name in vain) in books or tv. It occurred multiple times in this book.
October 9, 2024
So cute and cozy, would've been better without the smut.
April 5, 2023
Not only is Monroe a masterful storyteller and a queen of romantic comedy, but she’s a brilliant marketer. I’ve been dying for Jackson's story since Charming CEO, and now I can’t wait for the next book in this series after getting to know JJ and seeing the sneak peek for it. But first, you absolutely have to read Jackson and Tessa's story, and epic second-chance romance.
Tessa Ritchie met Jackson as a teen ager when she was staying with her grandparents for her annual summer vacation at their Sandpiper B&B in Blackberry Cove on the Massachusetts Cape. They were each others' first and head over heels but had life plans that didn’t mesh.
Ten years later Tessa has moved to the Cape and is determined to breathe new life back into the run-down B&B, both to help her aging grandpa and honor her Grandma Ruth. When a movie production company converges on their small town and wants to use the Sandpiper for filming, the promised improvements and paycheck are too good to pass up. The only drawback? The leading man is Jackson Kane, the boy Tessa loved all those years ago.
She may have fond memories, but Jackson's Hollywood lifestyle don’t interest her at all. She's determined to keep her distance, until her snooty cousin decides she's entitled to their grandma’s engagement ring. In a panic, Tessa creates a fake relationship on the verge of engagement. With Jackson. What she doesn’t realize, however, is that Tessa is playing right into Jackson's hands, because he doesn’t intend to leave her behind a second time.
Truthfully, I’ve been over the famous billionaire trope for a while, but Monroe's writing is so exceptional she's made me love it all over again. The A-list actor twist is also refreshing, although with it's own set of challenges. I couldn’t help but empathize with Tessa and her reluctance to let all that into her life. But Jackson is so freaking swoony, how's a girl to resist? No, not because of his fame or fortune, but because that good-hearted guy Tessa fell for is still there under all the trappings.
This was such a great read I devoured it in one sitting. Quirky, charming and funny, but sweet, steamy and heartfelt, this is the perfect read when you just want to escape the real world for a few hours. Guaranteed to make your romantic heart smile, you definitely won’t want to miss this one!
Tessa Ritchie met Jackson as a teen ager when she was staying with her grandparents for her annual summer vacation at their Sandpiper B&B in Blackberry Cove on the Massachusetts Cape. They were each others' first and head over heels but had life plans that didn’t mesh.
Ten years later Tessa has moved to the Cape and is determined to breathe new life back into the run-down B&B, both to help her aging grandpa and honor her Grandma Ruth. When a movie production company converges on their small town and wants to use the Sandpiper for filming, the promised improvements and paycheck are too good to pass up. The only drawback? The leading man is Jackson Kane, the boy Tessa loved all those years ago.
She may have fond memories, but Jackson's Hollywood lifestyle don’t interest her at all. She's determined to keep her distance, until her snooty cousin decides she's entitled to their grandma’s engagement ring. In a panic, Tessa creates a fake relationship on the verge of engagement. With Jackson. What she doesn’t realize, however, is that Tessa is playing right into Jackson's hands, because he doesn’t intend to leave her behind a second time.
Truthfully, I’ve been over the famous billionaire trope for a while, but Monroe's writing is so exceptional she's made me love it all over again. The A-list actor twist is also refreshing, although with it's own set of challenges. I couldn’t help but empathize with Tessa and her reluctance to let all that into her life. But Jackson is so freaking swoony, how's a girl to resist? No, not because of his fame or fortune, but because that good-hearted guy Tessa fell for is still there under all the trappings.
This was such a great read I devoured it in one sitting. Quirky, charming and funny, but sweet, steamy and heartfelt, this is the perfect read when you just want to escape the real world for a few hours. Guaranteed to make your romantic heart smile, you definitely won’t want to miss this one!
May 11, 2023
Tessa Ritchie moved back to Blackberry Cove, not only for a fresh start, but to reconnect with the life she once loved there. And while she has her hands full renovating her grandparents old B&B... the moment an old flame returns, Tessa is about to find herself thoroughly distracted...
Jackson Kane is an accomplished leading-man on his way to becoming a full-blown movie star, but he craves the simpler times he once had with the woman that he never forgot...
A movie may bring them back together, but will Tessa and Jackson be able to find a happily-ever-after of their own?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was an entertaining and sweet, second chance romance. Tessa is a small town girl at heart, putting down the roots that she so desperately craves, while Jackson is an up-and-coming movie star, destined to travel the world and accomplish great things. And while these two can't seem to get enough of each other, it's only a matter of time before the movie wraps, and they both have to move on...
Tessa was a great character. Loyal and supportive, she proved to Jackson early on that she was someone he could trust. I loved her relationship with her grandpa, and her drive to restore the Sandpiper to its former B&B glory.
Jackson's life may have changed considerably since the last time he saw Tessa, but he was still the same man she fell in love with, all those years ago...
This book was an engaging and fun read, with wonderful supporting characters and a sweet romantic plot. I loved the story settings of both the movie being filmed, and the renovation of the inn, that took place while Tessa and Jackson reconnected and found a way to merge their two, very different worlds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
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Jackson Kane is an accomplished leading-man on his way to becoming a full-blown movie star, but he craves the simpler times he once had with the woman that he never forgot...
A movie may bring them back together, but will Tessa and Jackson be able to find a happily-ever-after of their own?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was an entertaining and sweet, second chance romance. Tessa is a small town girl at heart, putting down the roots that she so desperately craves, while Jackson is an up-and-coming movie star, destined to travel the world and accomplish great things. And while these two can't seem to get enough of each other, it's only a matter of time before the movie wraps, and they both have to move on...
Tessa was a great character. Loyal and supportive, she proved to Jackson early on that she was someone he could trust. I loved her relationship with her grandpa, and her drive to restore the Sandpiper to its former B&B glory.
Jackson's life may have changed considerably since the last time he saw Tessa, but he was still the same man she fell in love with, all those years ago...
This book was an engaging and fun read, with wonderful supporting characters and a sweet romantic plot. I loved the story settings of both the movie being filmed, and the renovation of the inn, that took place while Tessa and Jackson reconnected and found a way to merge their two, very different worlds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the Blog!
https://nightbirdnovels.com
Follow Me on Instagram
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Twitter
April 9, 2023
“Have you ever loved someone enough to choose them, over everything else?”
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was a fresh, fun, flirty and charming read that had me falling for Tessa and Jackson from the very first page. These two were absolutely adorable and I loved their second chance romance.
“Maybe I’ve finally found the man who always felt like home.”
Tessa has been burned by love in the past and her heart is fiercely guarded. She is trying to build a new life for herself and she’s determined to keep Jackson Kane, Hollywood movie star and her first love, at a safe distance. Their lives are completely different and she believes there is no way they could mesh. However, Jackson is very determined to show Tessa that there is still a spark between them and that it is worth exploring.
“The first girl I ever loved. The person who believed in me when nobody else would.”
Jackson seemingly has everything that man could want, but he wants someone to share his life with. He’s never forgotten Tessa and how she’s the only one that ever made him feel like himself. He’s sweet and swoonworthy and he will do whatever he has to in order to convince Tessa that he could be her safe place.
“I’ll do whatever it takes to build a future with her. One that makes her feel safe, and loved, and treasured the way she deserves to be.”
I loved the flirty banter between Tessa and Jackson and how easy they fell back into their friendship. Their connection was obvious and the spark between them was electric. I loved how they grew together and learned how to love another even in the face of their own fears.
“This man is putting me first, serving my dreams up on a silver platter, just to make me smile.”
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was a sweetly adorable read that was full of emotion, a lot of humor and so much heart. Tessa and Jackson were perfection and I loved their heartfelt connection. This was a great addition to this series and I’m excited to see what’s next.
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was a fresh, fun, flirty and charming read that had me falling for Tessa and Jackson from the very first page. These two were absolutely adorable and I loved their second chance romance.
“Maybe I’ve finally found the man who always felt like home.”
Tessa has been burned by love in the past and her heart is fiercely guarded. She is trying to build a new life for herself and she’s determined to keep Jackson Kane, Hollywood movie star and her first love, at a safe distance. Their lives are completely different and she believes there is no way they could mesh. However, Jackson is very determined to show Tessa that there is still a spark between them and that it is worth exploring.
“The first girl I ever loved. The person who believed in me when nobody else would.”
Jackson seemingly has everything that man could want, but he wants someone to share his life with. He’s never forgotten Tessa and how she’s the only one that ever made him feel like himself. He’s sweet and swoonworthy and he will do whatever he has to in order to convince Tessa that he could be her safe place.
“I’ll do whatever it takes to build a future with her. One that makes her feel safe, and loved, and treasured the way she deserves to be.”
I loved the flirty banter between Tessa and Jackson and how easy they fell back into their friendship. Their connection was obvious and the spark between them was electric. I loved how they grew together and learned how to love another even in the face of their own fears.
“This man is putting me first, serving my dreams up on a silver platter, just to make me smile.”
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was a sweetly adorable read that was full of emotion, a lot of humor and so much heart. Tessa and Jackson were perfection and I loved their heartfelt connection. This was a great addition to this series and I’m excited to see what’s next.
August 21, 2023
Jackson and Tessa
A second chance romance.
Ten years ago Tessa fell in love with the handsome Jackson. The summer she turned eighteen, they decided on one summer, then he was off to Hollywood, and she was off to college. Long distance wasn’t an option.
Now she’s back to help her granddad renovate the B and B he ran with his late wife. A daunting task considering the run down state of the old house.
But when the crew filming a new movie in town takes one look and her home, she suddenly has all the help she needs fixing up the old place for the main set of the movie.
Jackson is baffled by Tessa. He wants to spend time with her, hopefully to sway her into a date or two, but she’s dead set on avoiding the newest Hollywood hunk.
Things fall into place for him when Tessa needs him to pretend to be her loving boyfriend. Anything to keep her snooty cousin from claiming her grandmother’s antique engagement ring.
Soon old feelings creep back into play. Things get hot and heavy for awhile, then Tessa gets a real taste of life with an up and coming superstar. And she has flashbacks of another star, and another relationship that ended horrifically. And she bolts.
I like this story. It was an easy read. The characters were great. I love this little New England town with all its quirky characters.
There were a few editing issues and continuity was not always consistent.
I’ve read other books by this author and the one thing that drives me nuts is the over use of exclamation points!!! Makes it read like every line is being shouted.
The story is mainly told from Tessa’s POV. Jackson does get a few chapters of his own.
No cheating. HFN ending. Maybe the engagement will be in the next book?
A second chance romance.
Ten years ago Tessa fell in love with the handsome Jackson. The summer she turned eighteen, they decided on one summer, then he was off to Hollywood, and she was off to college. Long distance wasn’t an option.
Now she’s back to help her granddad renovate the B and B he ran with his late wife. A daunting task considering the run down state of the old house.
But when the crew filming a new movie in town takes one look and her home, she suddenly has all the help she needs fixing up the old place for the main set of the movie.
Jackson is baffled by Tessa. He wants to spend time with her, hopefully to sway her into a date or two, but she’s dead set on avoiding the newest Hollywood hunk.
Things fall into place for him when Tessa needs him to pretend to be her loving boyfriend. Anything to keep her snooty cousin from claiming her grandmother’s antique engagement ring.
Soon old feelings creep back into play. Things get hot and heavy for awhile, then Tessa gets a real taste of life with an up and coming superstar. And she has flashbacks of another star, and another relationship that ended horrifically. And she bolts.
I like this story. It was an easy read. The characters were great. I love this little New England town with all its quirky characters.
There were a few editing issues and continuity was not always consistent.
I’ve read other books by this author and the one thing that drives me nuts is the over use of exclamation points!!! Makes it read like every line is being shouted.
The story is mainly told from Tessa’s POV. Jackson does get a few chapters of his own.
No cheating. HFN ending. Maybe the engagement will be in the next book?
May 24, 2023
Tessa is in desperate need of a life reset. Her personal life has imploded so she returns to the place that has always given her the comfort and grounding she needs, Blackberry Cove.
Her grandparents B&B is in a state of disrepair but Tessa can see that with a lot of hard work and TLC it still has the potential to be a fabulous boutique accommodation business. The only part that is slowing things down is the cost involved, hence the reason why she is doing as much as she can herself. And this is a great segway into why she is currently standing in front of her first love, Jackson Kane, with a soaked shirt, nipples on full alert and holding a wrench.
Hang on a freaking minute, what is Jackson Kane doing here? Jackson, who she hasn’t seen for 10 years and is an up and coming movie star / producer. Well it turns out that he is in town filming his next movie and thought he would call in to say hi. Tessa is not happy about the fact that he is even more good looking than she remembers, as much as she wants to climb him like a tree she must resist his charm.
By a strange happenstance the movie needs a location just like the B&B and so it is a mutually beneficial arrangement to let them do the renovations, also covering the costs. Win, win! Except that means Tessa will see Jackson daily and he seems to have his sights set on Tessa.
There are way more shenanigans in this fun rom-com that I haven’t touched on yet but if that is your reading kink you will love this.
Her grandparents B&B is in a state of disrepair but Tessa can see that with a lot of hard work and TLC it still has the potential to be a fabulous boutique accommodation business. The only part that is slowing things down is the cost involved, hence the reason why she is doing as much as she can herself. And this is a great segway into why she is currently standing in front of her first love, Jackson Kane, with a soaked shirt, nipples on full alert and holding a wrench.
Hang on a freaking minute, what is Jackson Kane doing here? Jackson, who she hasn’t seen for 10 years and is an up and coming movie star / producer. Well it turns out that he is in town filming his next movie and thought he would call in to say hi. Tessa is not happy about the fact that he is even more good looking than she remembers, as much as she wants to climb him like a tree she must resist his charm.
By a strange happenstance the movie needs a location just like the B&B and so it is a mutually beneficial arrangement to let them do the renovations, also covering the costs. Win, win! Except that means Tessa will see Jackson daily and he seems to have his sights set on Tessa.
There are way more shenanigans in this fun rom-com that I haven’t touched on yet but if that is your reading kink you will love this.
April 19, 2023
If you’ve read Lila Monroe you know most of her books are full of love and laughter. Well Hollywood Marriage Bargain sure fits that billing. Ms. Monroe gave us readers a wonderful storyline with great characters in her latest RomCom. It’s a 2nd chance at love with awkward moments and lots of razzle dazzle. After all, our hero, Jackson Kane, is a Hollywood Leading Man back in his prior small town of Blackberry Cove to shoot his latest film. He also still has the hots for Tessa and plans to get her back. As for our heroine, she is in a world of hurt trying to fix up her grandparents B&B while also trying to keep her greedy cousin from stealing the family’s heirloom ring. But to do that she has to marry first. She wants no part of Jackson, one heartbreak was enough, but then again, maybe he can help her keep the family's ring if they fake their engagement while he’s in town. I mean what could possibly go wrong with that plan with a hoard of press and fans following their every move and their past chemistry is still shooting off wild sparks.
I highly recommend grabbing up Hollywood Marriage Bargain and enjoying the ride along with Jackson and Tessa. You’ll be happy you did.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
I highly recommend grabbing up Hollywood Marriage Bargain and enjoying the ride along with Jackson and Tessa. You’ll be happy you did.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
April 24, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a really fun second chance romance that is the start of a brand-new series. In it we get to know Jackson who is a big Hollywood actor as he brings his movie production to the small town of Blackberry Cove. The town holds some wonderful memories for Jackson because its where he fell in love with his summer girlfriend from ten years before, Tessa and it just so happens that she is now living in the town with her grandfather while she renovates the family inn.
Tessa is not looking forward to the movie production and Jackson. In fact, she keeps turning him down for dinners. That is until she finds her grandma's ring and has to compete with her cousin for it and she declares that she is dating Jackson with marriage thoughts. Jackson agrees to help her out because he wants Tess to just let him get to know her and then there is this kiss...
This was a really fun story. It's pretty low on drama and no exes and no jealousy. But it does have a bit of insta lust/love and was a really fun and light read with a second chance storyline.
This was a really fun second chance romance that is the start of a brand-new series. In it we get to know Jackson who is a big Hollywood actor as he brings his movie production to the small town of Blackberry Cove. The town holds some wonderful memories for Jackson because its where he fell in love with his summer girlfriend from ten years before, Tessa and it just so happens that she is now living in the town with her grandfather while she renovates the family inn.
Tessa is not looking forward to the movie production and Jackson. In fact, she keeps turning him down for dinners. That is until she finds her grandma's ring and has to compete with her cousin for it and she declares that she is dating Jackson with marriage thoughts. Jackson agrees to help her out because he wants Tess to just let him get to know her and then there is this kiss...
This was a really fun story. It's pretty low on drama and no exes and no jealousy. But it does have a bit of insta lust/love and was a really fun and light read with a second chance storyline.
April 26, 2023
4 stars
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain is a cute story where the Hollywood a-lister falls first and has to chase the small town girl- 90s do over style.
Jackson and Tessa fell in sweet summer love one ten years ago. But like most summer romances, it wasn't built to last. Years later, fate intervenes.
After leaving a relationship that left her heart, mind and bank account bruised, Tessa returns to beautiful Blackberry Cove to bring herself, and her beloved grandparent's B&B, back to life. The last person she expects to see is the boy who got away. Jackson left the small cape town for his big break and has been working the red carpet ever since. He's back on the cape to film the next epic summer romance movie. But Jackson doesn't want to just star in the movie, he wants to be Tessa's leading man again.
Sweet romcom with cute characters and an adorable small town. I liked Jackson and Tessa very much, even though Tessa frustrated me on occasion. Jackson was all in and swoony. The side characters were great and felt like old friends. Cute, summer read!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain is a cute story where the Hollywood a-lister falls first and has to chase the small town girl- 90s do over style.
Jackson and Tessa fell in sweet summer love one ten years ago. But like most summer romances, it wasn't built to last. Years later, fate intervenes.
After leaving a relationship that left her heart, mind and bank account bruised, Tessa returns to beautiful Blackberry Cove to bring herself, and her beloved grandparent's B&B, back to life. The last person she expects to see is the boy who got away. Jackson left the small cape town for his big break and has been working the red carpet ever since. He's back on the cape to film the next epic summer romance movie. But Jackson doesn't want to just star in the movie, he wants to be Tessa's leading man again.
Sweet romcom with cute characters and an adorable small town. I liked Jackson and Tessa very much, even though Tessa frustrated me on occasion. Jackson was all in and swoony. The side characters were great and felt like old friends. Cute, summer read!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
April 24, 2023
4.5 STARS!
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was another light-hearted, sexy and entertaining romantic comedy from Lila Monroe! This second-chance romance features a newly single Tessa back in her grandparents’ home town to renovate their B&B. Jackson is in town filming a movie—and trying to rekindle the magic of their romance from ten years ago. The chemistry between Jackson and Tessa was palpable and their banter was witty and fun. Lila’s writing style is engaging and flows well, making for a quick and enjoyable read.
The plot is well-paced and keeps the reader hooked throughout the book. The movie set background created a fun and interesting backdrop, and I loved the glimpses into the relationship pitfalls between an A list actor and a non-celebrity. An amusing plot and a sexy, sweet, swoon-worthy romance about a couple I was pulling for from the start made this an addictive, fun-to-read romance that kept me smiling the whole way through. The Hollywood Marriage Bargain by Lila Monroe gets 4.5 smooches from me!
~Danielle Palumbo
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was another light-hearted, sexy and entertaining romantic comedy from Lila Monroe! This second-chance romance features a newly single Tessa back in her grandparents’ home town to renovate their B&B. Jackson is in town filming a movie—and trying to rekindle the magic of their romance from ten years ago. The chemistry between Jackson and Tessa was palpable and their banter was witty and fun. Lila’s writing style is engaging and flows well, making for a quick and enjoyable read.
The plot is well-paced and keeps the reader hooked throughout the book. The movie set background created a fun and interesting backdrop, and I loved the glimpses into the relationship pitfalls between an A list actor and a non-celebrity. An amusing plot and a sexy, sweet, swoon-worthy romance about a couple I was pulling for from the start made this an addictive, fun-to-read romance that kept me smiling the whole way through. The Hollywood Marriage Bargain by Lila Monroe gets 4.5 smooches from me!
~Danielle Palumbo
April 25, 2023
The Hollywood Marriage Bargain is a cute story where the Hollywood a-lister falls first and has to chase the small town girl- 90s do over style.
Jackson and Tessa fell in sweet summer love one ten years ago. But like most summer romances, it wasn't built to last. Years later, fate intervenes.
After leaving a relationship that left her heart, mind and bank account bruised, Tessa returns to beautiful Blackberry Cove to bring herself, and her beloved grandparent's B&B, back to life. The last person she expects to see is the boy who got away. Jackson left the small cape town for his big break and has been working the red carpet ever since. He's back on the cape to film the next epic summer romance movie. But Jackson doesn't want to just star in the movie, he wants to be Tessa's leading man again.
Sweet romcom with cute characters and an adorable small town. I liked Jackson and Tessa very much, even though Tessa frustrated me on occasion. Jackson was all in and swoony. The side characters were great and felt like old friends. Cute, summer read!
Jackson and Tessa fell in sweet summer love one ten years ago. But like most summer romances, it wasn't built to last. Years later, fate intervenes.
After leaving a relationship that left her heart, mind and bank account bruised, Tessa returns to beautiful Blackberry Cove to bring herself, and her beloved grandparent's B&B, back to life. The last person she expects to see is the boy who got away. Jackson left the small cape town for his big break and has been working the red carpet ever since. He's back on the cape to film the next epic summer romance movie. But Jackson doesn't want to just star in the movie, he wants to be Tessa's leading man again.
Sweet romcom with cute characters and an adorable small town. I liked Jackson and Tessa very much, even though Tessa frustrated me on occasion. Jackson was all in and swoony. The side characters were great and felt like old friends. Cute, summer read!
May 2, 2023
A frequently sweet and sometimes smoldering read, Lila Monroe’s The Hollywood Marriage Bargain is a great second-chance romance featuring a Hollywood A-lister and his high school crush from his small home town of Blackberry Cove. It has been ten years, but their chemistry is still off the charts!
In this sweet rom-com, the main characters, Tessa and Jackson, have returned to their small home town for different reasons, and their reasons for reconnecting are very different. However, they easily fall into their past rhythm but in a mature adult kind of way. The secondary characters and the secondary stories of the movie filming and B&B remodeling are fun additions to the love story.
I really enjoy small-town romances, and The Hollywood Marriage Bargain hit the nail on the head for me.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
In this sweet rom-com, the main characters, Tessa and Jackson, have returned to their small home town for different reasons, and their reasons for reconnecting are very different. However, they easily fall into their past rhythm but in a mature adult kind of way. The secondary characters and the secondary stories of the movie filming and B&B remodeling are fun additions to the love story.
I really enjoy small-town romances, and The Hollywood Marriage Bargain hit the nail on the head for me.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
May 28, 2024
Tessa and Jackson meet again after 10 years apart. She's coming off a devastating break up and refurbishing her grandparents' bed and breakfast. He's a rising star in Hollywood who is filming in the little town they spent summers together.
The story was well written. The dialog was real enough to make me feel like it was a conversation I could have had with my friends.
The characters were really well done and felt real. Tessa's confusion and reluctantance to be a part of Jackson's high profile life is understandable. Jackson's determination that he and Tessa can make their life together work is adorable. The supporting characters are fleshed out and real. Everyone needs a JJ in their lives. Hazel and Lottie are great and have a realistic mother-daughter dynamic. Artie is the grandfather who knows everything that is going on, even when people try to hide things from him.
This type of story is not one I read all the time, but I found this one really enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone who likes contemporary romances.
My rating: 4 stars
The story was well written. The dialog was real enough to make me feel like it was a conversation I could have had with my friends.
The characters were really well done and felt real. Tessa's confusion and reluctantance to be a part of Jackson's high profile life is understandable. Jackson's determination that he and Tessa can make their life together work is adorable. The supporting characters are fleshed out and real. Everyone needs a JJ in their lives. Hazel and Lottie are great and have a realistic mother-daughter dynamic. Artie is the grandfather who knows everything that is going on, even when people try to hide things from him.
This type of story is not one I read all the time, but I found this one really enjoyable and would recommend it to anyone who likes contemporary romances.
My rating: 4 stars
June 3, 2024
3.75 stars
This was nice small town second chance romance.
Tessa and Jackson were young lovers who ended their summer romance to follow their dreams, but 10 years later they are back in their small town and it seems the love is still there. I have to say Jackson was my favorite main character in this book, he just so swoon worthy right from the start and he didn’t stop fighting for what he wanted which was career, but most importantly a life with Tessa. Tessa, however, did get on my nerves for majority of the book simply for the fact that she couldn’t make up her mind and when she did it was immature reasons.
Tessa was burned by love before so I understand her reluctance, but it also felt like Jackson, her first love, was paying for all of Seth’s mistakes. She was a bit too quick to drop Jackson and even her bestie, JJ aka Jolene, and her grandfather stated as much.
However, Jackson and friends save the day and all is well.
I am interested in JJ’s book, but this book was bit too long because it dragged on for some parts I’m afraid that might continue in the series.
This was nice small town second chance romance.
Tessa and Jackson were young lovers who ended their summer romance to follow their dreams, but 10 years later they are back in their small town and it seems the love is still there. I have to say Jackson was my favorite main character in this book, he just so swoon worthy right from the start and he didn’t stop fighting for what he wanted which was career, but most importantly a life with Tessa. Tessa, however, did get on my nerves for majority of the book simply for the fact that she couldn’t make up her mind and when she did it was immature reasons.
Tessa was burned by love before so I understand her reluctance, but it also felt like Jackson, her first love, was paying for all of Seth’s mistakes. She was a bit too quick to drop Jackson and even her bestie, JJ aka Jolene, and her grandfather stated as much.
However, Jackson and friends save the day and all is well.
I am interested in JJ’s book, but this book was bit too long because it dragged on for some parts I’m afraid that might continue in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2024
After a stressful week of work, The Hollywood Marriage Bargain was the perfect pick-me-up rom-com story to lift my spirits. The story centres on Tessa, a heartbroken novice B&B owner, and Jackson, a Hollywood actor-slash-celebrity. Their chemistry is electric, their banter is funny, and the true love between the two is evident throughout the book. There's no will-they-won't they - Tessa and Jackson have history, and fate is giving them a second chance to be together. I was rooting for them throughout, and when it seemed like all hope was lost, I felt their sadness. The characters evoked strong emotional responses in me and leapt off the page (even the secondary characters), and the setting was so well-described that I could picture Blackberry Cove like I was watching a movie.
I really don't have any complaints about this story. It was exactly what I needed to read when I was feeling stressed and unhappy. The cure to the workday blues. If you get the chance to read The Hollywood Marriage Bargain or any of its sequels - TAKE IT!!!
I really don't have any complaints about this story. It was exactly what I needed to read when I was feeling stressed and unhappy. The cure to the workday blues. If you get the chance to read The Hollywood Marriage Bargain or any of its sequels - TAKE IT!!!
April 20, 2023
ARC Review of The Hollywood Marriage Bargain by Lily Monroe
* * * * *
A sweet, steamy, giggly and all the the small town drama you need packed in with a second chance romance bouncing off a fake relationship! Talk about complicated!
Tessa and Jackson were a thing of the past.
Tessa has learned from it, and now is focused on helping out her grandparents with their B&B, like any awesome grandkid should. She however did not expect to run right back into Jackson who was here for work...and now it seems pleasure.
She's been hurt before.
However, Jackson is not that keen in letting her slip by so easily.
A fun read to cool down my afternoon, even if it was filled with steamy moments and hot teasing and bantering between these two lover interests. Love how Tessa is determined to help out her family, so many people would just let things slide.
Another book from this author that reminds me why I enjoy coming back to her books!
* * * * *
A sweet, steamy, giggly and all the the small town drama you need packed in with a second chance romance bouncing off a fake relationship! Talk about complicated!
Tessa and Jackson were a thing of the past.
Tessa has learned from it, and now is focused on helping out her grandparents with their B&B, like any awesome grandkid should. She however did not expect to run right back into Jackson who was here for work...and now it seems pleasure.
She's been hurt before.
However, Jackson is not that keen in letting her slip by so easily.
A fun read to cool down my afternoon, even if it was filled with steamy moments and hot teasing and bantering between these two lover interests. Love how Tessa is determined to help out her family, so many people would just let things slide.
Another book from this author that reminds me why I enjoy coming back to her books!
April 12, 2023
This story has it all, and I loved every page of it! 5 billionaire stars for this!
Tessa is back home at her grandfathers, spending what's left of her savings on fixing up the B & B they owned. She's been hurt and needs the comfort of home after giving up her life for a guy who left her. Here she has her best friend J.J. and that's good enough for now. Then she runs into Jackson, the one guy she truly loved and let go to pursue his acting career. He's back in town filming a movie, and they want to use the B & B for the film! This means Jackson will be around a lot, and when he is, that old spark they shared comes back, and it's like no time has past.
Enjoy their story as it unfolds, you will definitely fall in love with them! The sparks between them and the banter they share will have you hooked!
Tessa is back home at her grandfathers, spending what's left of her savings on fixing up the B & B they owned. She's been hurt and needs the comfort of home after giving up her life for a guy who left her. Here she has her best friend J.J. and that's good enough for now. Then she runs into Jackson, the one guy she truly loved and let go to pursue his acting career. He's back in town filming a movie, and they want to use the B & B for the film! This means Jackson will be around a lot, and when he is, that old spark they shared comes back, and it's like no time has past.
Enjoy their story as it unfolds, you will definitely fall in love with them! The sparks between them and the banter they share will have you hooked!
April 18, 2023
I love The Billionaire Bachelor Club Series and this time it’s Jackson Kane and Tessa Ritchie’s second chance romance and it’s a wonderful addition to the series.
Jackson and Tessa have a history but he left town to find fame as a movie star. Filming has brought him back to Blackberry Cove and he sees this as an ideal opportunity to make amends with Tessa.
Tessa is struggling to renovate her grandparents bed and breakfast and a film crew arriving might just give her the leg up she needs but that means seeing Jackson, a man she is not sure she can forgive.
What follows is a fun, entertaining and at times emotional journey as Jackson sets out to win Tessa back. I fell for Jackson and i adored Tessa but more importantly I found myself cheering this couple on. I swooned, I smiled and I loved every word Ms Monroe wrote.
Jackson and Tessa have a history but he left town to find fame as a movie star. Filming has brought him back to Blackberry Cove and he sees this as an ideal opportunity to make amends with Tessa.
Tessa is struggling to renovate her grandparents bed and breakfast and a film crew arriving might just give her the leg up she needs but that means seeing Jackson, a man she is not sure she can forgive.
What follows is a fun, entertaining and at times emotional journey as Jackson sets out to win Tessa back. I fell for Jackson and i adored Tessa but more importantly I found myself cheering this couple on. I swooned, I smiled and I loved every word Ms Monroe wrote.
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