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The Hours Duet #1
After Hours
One confirmed concussion and several insults was not how I planned to impress my boss.
Decorating his shoes with vomit wasn’t either.
And now he despises me.
With each new dig and glare that passes between us, tension spirals.
It’s lust disguised as hate.
A force neither of us can deny.
We agreed to a night, and he begged for the weekend. But somewhere between right and wrong, all bets were off.
The rules don’t apply when it’s after hours.
It was a good idea until it wasn’t.
Because when the world is watching you fall in love with your boss, you’re in plain view of his enemies.
Decorating his shoes with vomit wasn’t either.
And now he despises me.
With each new dig and glare that passes between us, tension spirals.
It’s lust disguised as hate.
A force neither of us can deny.
We agreed to a night, and he begged for the weekend. But somewhere between right and wrong, all bets were off.
The rules don’t apply when it’s after hours.
It was a good idea until it wasn’t.
Because when the world is watching you fall in love with your boss, you’re in plain view of his enemies.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2022
320 people are currently reading
2311 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
December 2, 2022
Grumpy/Rude boss ✔️
Hidden Workplace romance ✔️
🌶🌶✔️
Enemies to lovers ✔️ (kind of)
Angst ✔️ (not as much as other books I've read but..)
This was a strong 3.5 🌟
I did feel like there was a few things that weren't addressed properly such as how the heroines brother hated her and it wasn't really spoken about after, or the threats she got from her exs' father. (These aren't spoilers) The ending seemed a bit rushed, the H did grovel a bit which I liked and he did cute things for her 😍 so loved the H. Initially I thought he was rude and his behaviour was hot and cold, so plain annoying. But he grew on me, the h was also kind of boring, there was nothing spectacular about her. But all in all, I enjoyed this story, even if the action was very anticlimactic.
Hidden Workplace romance ✔️
🌶🌶✔️
Enemies to lovers ✔️ (kind of)
Angst ✔️ (not as much as other books I've read but..)
This was a strong 3.5 🌟
I did feel like there was a few things that weren't addressed properly such as how the heroines brother hated her and it wasn't really spoken about after, or the threats she got from her exs' father. (These aren't spoilers) The ending seemed a bit rushed, the H did grovel a bit which I liked and he did cute things for her 😍 so loved the H. Initially I thought he was rude and his behaviour was hot and cold, so plain annoying. But he grew on me, the h was also kind of boring, there was nothing spectacular about her. But all in all, I enjoyed this story, even if the action was very anticlimactic.
December 1, 2022
Am I the only one who thinks he was way too horrible to her for her to forgive him multiple times? I was very confused how she came to love him so quickly when he was so mean to her, then they just bang for a whole weekend, he tells her he likes her vagina and she’s in love? I mean legit this was a classic case of girl falls for the asshole, there weren’t redeeming features for me except him throwing around his money. She forgives him repeatedly. I’m sorry but if anyone ever left me after I was just hit by a vehicle on purpose I am not forgiving them anytime soon if ever. Then the day she does forgive him coincidentally is the day he tells her he’s going to back off and stop pursuing her until she’s ready? I also found it annoying that her friends were constantly defending his actions instead of understanding Lauren’s hurt and pain. SHE WAS IN THE HOSPITAL and he left! If he can’t protect her, then he doesn’t deserve her. I don’t think him buying her a property makes up for what he did either, I would’ve liked it better if we saw way more groveling from him over a much longer period of time.
Also, the timelines seem very off to me. They spend a weekend together. Then he’s gone for weeks after ignoring her. Then he’s begging for her back the day he returns and she says yes. Then they’re together for what, maybe a few weeks? But hardly see each other because his revenge plot. Then they go on vaca for a week. Then he leaves her in a hospital and is gone for 3 months? Then wants her back, and tries for…a couple weeks? I don’t even know? We aren’t even told how long it takes him to win her back. It’s very unsettling that he spends more time away from her / being an ass then in a relationship with her. Outside of sexual scenes, there wasn’t much of a relationship.
However, the spice was good and I did enjoy how the h wasn’t a doormat for the beginning of the book. The banter was nice. If only she had kept that up.
Also, the timelines seem very off to me. They spend a weekend together. Then he’s gone for weeks after ignoring her. Then he’s begging for her back the day he returns and she says yes. Then they’re together for what, maybe a few weeks? But hardly see each other because his revenge plot. Then they go on vaca for a week. Then he leaves her in a hospital and is gone for 3 months? Then wants her back, and tries for…a couple weeks? I don’t even know? We aren’t even told how long it takes him to win her back. It’s very unsettling that he spends more time away from her / being an ass then in a relationship with her. Outside of sexual scenes, there wasn’t much of a relationship.
However, the spice was good and I did enjoy how the h wasn’t a doormat for the beginning of the book. The banter was nice. If only she had kept that up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2022
Y'all...
I. Am. So. In. Love. With. This. Book.
In freaking love.
It's my first A. R. Thomas book but, agh, it was so amazing. Cain and Lauren's relationship starts off rocky. He's her boss and she threw up on his shoes after Perry, his friend, slammed a door onto her (also Perry is amazing).
Despite, their "I strongly dislike you" and "Please don't fire me" stand off, Cain is quite into her. Lauren also finds him attractive. Eventually they agree to have a one night stand. But that one taste of how things could be made them want more. And more. And more. Y’all don’t get me started on the smut in this boss. I was squealing. Smiling. This man knows what he’s doing and how he’s doing it. It was so exquisite.
To be honest, for a moment I thought everything was good. They were happy after a few up and downs. Lauren thought her love was unrequited but knew he was into her… at least for sex. But no, A. R. went for one last punch to the heart and, boy, I was devastated. I couldn’t wait to get the HEA and for Cain to grovel a bit before the end.
I just loved their story so, so much.
𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
• billionaire romance
• boss x employee/workplace romance
• boy + girl obsessed
• consent, degradation, and praise
• forbidden romance (no fraternization)
• forced proximity
• grumpy x sunshine
• morally grey mmc
• one night stand (with the best sex)
• unrequited love (or so she thinks)
February 19, 2023
Oh wow it's been a long time since I've read a book so dull and non-interesting.
Lesson of the story: Don't read books based on their reels/booktoks.
Lesson of the story: Don't read books based on their reels/booktoks.
December 1, 2022
The chemistry between Lauren and Cain is INSANE. Cain spent the majority of the beginning of the book being a jerk to everyone including Lauren. I'm not gonna lie thats probably one of my favorite parts about the book just seeing him act like a jerk to her just cause he's becoming obsessed and wants her but can't do anything about it( he's her boss). Lauren was never afraid to tell him what was on her mind so even when they were going back and forth you can still feel how much chemistry they had.
Cain was such a softie when it came to her. The way he treated her, made sure she was always good made ME fall for him. Let's not talk about the sex scenes im just gonna leave ya with this
“Crawl.”
All in all the story was really well written. Apart from all the romance and getting to know some amazing side characters the author through in a couple of stuff that I was not expecting. I was hooked the entire book
Cain was such a softie when it came to her. The way he treated her, made sure she was always good made ME fall for him. Let's not talk about the sex scenes im just gonna leave ya with this
“Crawl.”
All in all the story was really well written. Apart from all the romance and getting to know some amazing side characters the author through in a couple of stuff that I was not expecting. I was hooked the entire book
did-not-finish
January 5, 2023DNF @ 11%. Writing quality was okay, but some of the chapters were just a rehash of the previous chapter told from the opposite character’s POV which is super irritating to me.
January 6, 2023
An easy read with some spice but don't expect to be caught up in drama most bits are predictable. An easy way to pass a few hours
November 30, 2022
Workplace romance is my weakness. Plus a broody, hot rich af hotelier with his prick-ish and obsessive ways, sign me the f- up 🫠 Cain and Lauren’s chemistry is unmatched and this couple has quickly become my favourite 🫶🏻 Another novel full of humour, banter, ride-or-die friends, cactus and unconditional love. Loved every single moment of it ♥️
Rachel totally slayed with her latest contemporary romance, After Hours. It has everything a romance lover wanted and needed. A forbidden (no fraternisation) workplace romance between a super duper hot but rude billionaire boss and a free-spirited and sassy af front desk staff. The plot, the characters and the spice were all so on point. The unconventional start hooked me from page one and the engaging storyline continued to suck me in. There was no one dull moment in this book. One thing I loved about Rachel’s writing was that all the elements were always very well-managed and balanced, just the right amount of emotion, angst and humour.
Lauren was hoping to start fresh by relocating to London after her ex and best friend cheated on her. The betrayal shattered her self-worth and left her with a baggage of trust issues. She took up a new job at the prestigious Carson-Ivory hotel, where she met her best friend / colleague Amberley. Everyone wanted to leave a good impression on the new boss, Cain but Lauren did the complete opposite. She threw up all over him after being smacked in the head by the hotel swing door. Her unfiltered potty mouth further infuriated Cain and she got fired on the spot. Needless to say, they were off to a rocky start.
To the outside world, Cain had it all. Good looking, wealthy and successful in every aspect of his life. All these years he had one goal and one goal only. To seek revenge for his beloved father, who was royally screwed over by his closest business partner Royce. His plan was coming to fruition and he could not afford any distraction. He did not expect a pale, petite employee to worm her way into his heart. Given he could not act on his attraction due to legal reasons, he turned into the biggest prick to keep his distance. Cain might be breathing down her neck, Lauren sure put up a good fight. Her comebacks were fire and she knew how to put Cain in his place.
Oh Perry, the joker and the glue of the group. He played his role perfectly in bringing joy and holding everyone together. I adore the friendship he shared with Cain, Lauren and also Kat. When Lauren and Cain finally acted on their physical attraction to one another, one taste was not enough. They wanted more. And more. Their pasts have caught up with them and they had to overcome obstacles to realise the true meaning of soulmate and love. What a wonderful story and I cannot wait to see what Rachel has in store for the series.
Rachel totally slayed with her latest contemporary romance, After Hours. It has everything a romance lover wanted and needed. A forbidden (no fraternisation) workplace romance between a super duper hot but rude billionaire boss and a free-spirited and sassy af front desk staff. The plot, the characters and the spice were all so on point. The unconventional start hooked me from page one and the engaging storyline continued to suck me in. There was no one dull moment in this book. One thing I loved about Rachel’s writing was that all the elements were always very well-managed and balanced, just the right amount of emotion, angst and humour.
Lauren was hoping to start fresh by relocating to London after her ex and best friend cheated on her. The betrayal shattered her self-worth and left her with a baggage of trust issues. She took up a new job at the prestigious Carson-Ivory hotel, where she met her best friend / colleague Amberley. Everyone wanted to leave a good impression on the new boss, Cain but Lauren did the complete opposite. She threw up all over him after being smacked in the head by the hotel swing door. Her unfiltered potty mouth further infuriated Cain and she got fired on the spot. Needless to say, they were off to a rocky start.
To the outside world, Cain had it all. Good looking, wealthy and successful in every aspect of his life. All these years he had one goal and one goal only. To seek revenge for his beloved father, who was royally screwed over by his closest business partner Royce. His plan was coming to fruition and he could not afford any distraction. He did not expect a pale, petite employee to worm her way into his heart. Given he could not act on his attraction due to legal reasons, he turned into the biggest prick to keep his distance. Cain might be breathing down her neck, Lauren sure put up a good fight. Her comebacks were fire and she knew how to put Cain in his place.
Oh Perry, the joker and the glue of the group. He played his role perfectly in bringing joy and holding everyone together. I adore the friendship he shared with Cain, Lauren and also Kat. When Lauren and Cain finally acted on their physical attraction to one another, one taste was not enough. They wanted more. And more. Their pasts have caught up with them and they had to overcome obstacles to realise the true meaning of soulmate and love. What a wonderful story and I cannot wait to see what Rachel has in store for the series.
January 2, 2023
DNF @ 21%
I picked up this book because the marketing for it was so well done. Sadly the book didn’t live up to the premise or hype.
I found the writing clunky and awkward.
There was instant chemistry but also they kept saying how much the other hated them, like a couple daft idiots. Their ignorance to the other one just didn’t make sense.
The were multiple mystery/revenge plots made the beginning very confusing and yet I had no interest in learning more.
All that said, there is a lot of potential here, I just hope the author tightens up her writing and smooths out the plot for the next book.
I picked up this book because the marketing for it was so well done. Sadly the book didn’t live up to the premise or hype.
I found the writing clunky and awkward.
There was instant chemistry but also they kept saying how much the other hated them, like a couple daft idiots. Their ignorance to the other one just didn’t make sense.
The were multiple mystery/revenge plots made the beginning very confusing and yet I had no interest in learning more.
All that said, there is a lot of potential here, I just hope the author tightens up her writing and smooths out the plot for the next book.
February 20, 2023
I Need More
I could honestly continue reading about this couple.
I’m addicted to all they went through to get to the place they’re at right now.
I need epilogues to the epilogue.
I need more happy and more angst and more spice and more everything.
I want more Perry and Matt and Kat and the obviously amazing bff.
Lauren, you sweet child. I didn’t know I’d get to like you as much a si did but you proved me wrong.
Cain, you broken soul, I loved getting to know why you were so grumpy.
Can’t wait to read more about this amazing group of friends.
I could honestly continue reading about this couple.
I’m addicted to all they went through to get to the place they’re at right now.
I need epilogues to the epilogue.
I need more happy and more angst and more spice and more everything.
I want more Perry and Matt and Kat and the obviously amazing bff.
Lauren, you sweet child. I didn’t know I’d get to like you as much a si did but you proved me wrong.
Cain, you broken soul, I loved getting to know why you were so grumpy.
Can’t wait to read more about this amazing group of friends.
December 16, 2022
it was….good
This book had a really good start and I was convinced I was going to absolutely love it. The back and forth was good but I was expecting a bit more in terms of the transitions to lovers.
Lauren finds her (at the time) boyfriend with her best friend. Humiliated and hurt her solution is to run to London to start fresh. Her ex-boyfriends father blackmails her to stay away. Having had a fresh start she begins working at a luxury hotel. One morning she gets into an accident at work and ends up concussed and after receiving and offensive comment from Cain and giving him a piece of her mind she ends up fired.
At first she wants her job back but after a while she realizes that she can get another job with her extensive resume. Cain is unable to stop thinking about Lauren and his desire for her. Frustrated that she works for him and he has a non-fraternization policy at work he can’t help but be a prick to her. When he sees that his friend is also interested in her he decides that he just wants one night with her which then turns into a weekend and then they say goodbye.
He reminds her how much of a prick he his and leaves London until he realizes that he wants her and returns. He makes promises and an attempt to keep her while fighting to earn back his birthright (which was stolen from him). Everything seemed to be going good until his relationship with Lauren comes to light and he ends up being targeted and Cain realizes that he shouldn’t be with her because he’s the reason she has this target on her back.
Once again he leaves her and this time she doesn’t take him back right away.
The drama was good although the blackmail material her ex-boyfriend father had was meh it was mentioned briefly and then that was that. I thought it would have an impact on the plot but it didn’t. The spicy scenes were good nothing too spicy.
Would I read the next book in the series….maybe just to see how the secondary characters end up.
This book had a really good start and I was convinced I was going to absolutely love it. The back and forth was good but I was expecting a bit more in terms of the transitions to lovers.
Lauren finds her (at the time) boyfriend with her best friend. Humiliated and hurt her solution is to run to London to start fresh. Her ex-boyfriends father blackmails her to stay away. Having had a fresh start she begins working at a luxury hotel. One morning she gets into an accident at work and ends up concussed and after receiving and offensive comment from Cain and giving him a piece of her mind she ends up fired.
At first she wants her job back but after a while she realizes that she can get another job with her extensive resume. Cain is unable to stop thinking about Lauren and his desire for her. Frustrated that she works for him and he has a non-fraternization policy at work he can’t help but be a prick to her. When he sees that his friend is also interested in her he decides that he just wants one night with her which then turns into a weekend and then they say goodbye.
He reminds her how much of a prick he his and leaves London until he realizes that he wants her and returns. He makes promises and an attempt to keep her while fighting to earn back his birthright (which was stolen from him). Everything seemed to be going good until his relationship with Lauren comes to light and he ends up being targeted and Cain realizes that he shouldn’t be with her because he’s the reason she has this target on her back.
Once again he leaves her and this time she doesn’t take him back right away.
The drama was good although the blackmail material her ex-boyfriend father had was meh it was mentioned briefly and then that was that. I thought it would have an impact on the plot but it didn’t. The spicy scenes were good nothing too spicy.
Would I read the next book in the series….maybe just to see how the secondary characters end up.
Read
December 8, 2022DNF: 26%
Just...nah.
Only characters I like are Perry and Matteo - both secondary characters.
Cain may be troubled, and he's not a villain or a bad boy, but he is one dimensional.
Lauren is just... not interesting.
Just...nah.
Only characters I like are Perry and Matteo - both secondary characters.
Cain may be troubled, and he's not a villain or a bad boy, but he is one dimensional.
Lauren is just... not interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2023
I'm feeling so frustrated. The decision for Cain to leave Lauren in the hospital was heartbreaking. Reading about how Lauren was feeling was so emotional and to be honest, I didn't want Cain to just come back as though nothing happened. He claimed that he was doing it to keep her safe and that he had people telling him that she was doing okay but it was all cowardly in my opinion. Worse than all of this was the fact that NO ONE seemed to understand Lauren and be on her side - everyone kept telling her that Cain loved her, that he did it to protect her, that he will fix her, that she should go back to him. This quote I think sums it perfectly:
"Everyone around me is pushing me to forgive him, pushing his narrative, but no one seems to be fighting my corner, and it only acts to make my feelings seem inferior."
Another example of a conversation between Cain's friend and Lauren: "You are punishing him for doing right by you,” he delivers calmly, and my head snaps up.
“It’s not right when it's this painful.”
“I know. None of us expected you to take it so hard. Ask yourself why, Lauren?” He picks up his bag, seemingly irritated with me. “You love him.” Exasperation quilts his voice. “And you're willing to throw it all away. Cain hurt you, but you’re continuing to cause damage. It wouldn’t be painful if you took him back."
Honestly, I wish she had someone in her corner telling (I should point out that everyone at the Cafe were amazing and are exactly the type of people she needed) her that her feelings were valid, that Cain messed up, and that everything about the situation completely sucked.
"Everyone around me is pushing me to forgive him, pushing his narrative, but no one seems to be fighting my corner, and it only acts to make my feelings seem inferior."
Another example of a conversation between Cain's friend and Lauren: "You are punishing him for doing right by you,” he delivers calmly, and my head snaps up.
“It’s not right when it's this painful.”
“I know. None of us expected you to take it so hard. Ask yourself why, Lauren?” He picks up his bag, seemingly irritated with me. “You love him.” Exasperation quilts his voice. “And you're willing to throw it all away. Cain hurt you, but you’re continuing to cause damage. It wouldn’t be painful if you took him back."
Honestly, I wish she had someone in her corner telling (I should point out that everyone at the Cafe were amazing and are exactly the type of people she needed) her that her feelings were valid, that Cain messed up, and that everything about the situation completely sucked.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2023
I like dual POVs when written in a certain way. This way was not it. You get to read a scene from one POV and then turn around and read it all over again from the other POV. It was a bit too repetitious for me. Luckily, not all the chapters were like that, but it was enough to be noteworthy.
The MMC didn't seem to have too many redeeming qualities. His entire personality seemed to be based around rage and wealth. His hair-trigger temper was not the most endearing trait and he did and said quite a few awful things to the FMC. The second act break-up was dumb (they usually are) and he absolutely destroyed the FMC but didn't apologize adequately. He just showed up months later and expected her to jump back in his arms after a measly apology and was dumbfounded when she didn't. Her friends and family were awful in this aspect too. It was a whole lot of, "You're being selfish, he was hurting too, this is childish dragging this on for no reason. He said sorry!" Bleh. Gaslighting is even more delicious when served up from your closest friends and family, isn't it? By the way, right after his anorexic apology when he's standing in the parking lot watching her drive off, he decides now would be a good time to unblock her number, I guess. I can accept her calls now after months of ignoring her. Huh. This is what dreams are made of, kids.
The MMC didn't seem to have too many redeeming qualities. His entire personality seemed to be based around rage and wealth. His hair-trigger temper was not the most endearing trait and he did and said quite a few awful things to the FMC. The second act break-up was dumb (they usually are) and he absolutely destroyed the FMC but didn't apologize adequately. He just showed up months later and expected her to jump back in his arms after a measly apology and was dumbfounded when she didn't. Her friends and family were awful in this aspect too. It was a whole lot of, "You're being selfish, he was hurting too, this is childish dragging this on for no reason. He said sorry!" Bleh. Gaslighting is even more delicious when served up from your closest friends and family, isn't it? By the way, right after his anorexic apology when he's standing in the parking lot watching her drive off, he decides now would be a good time to unblock her number, I guess. I can accept her calls now after months of ignoring her. Huh. This is what dreams are made of, kids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2023
Man are soooo stupid!
Still, I like the book. It’s one of the few with a very good representation about a real heartbreak, how lost and alone you feel despite being surrounded by people who love you.
It’s a safe book
Quite romantic
Have a third break act but there’s some grovel.
H is stupid stupid stupid and left her alone for much time for my taste
There’s no other people throughout that time
The secondary characters are good, one of them a jerk of epic proportions, and the next couple.
Today is released the next book, sounds good too!
Still, I like the book. It’s one of the few with a very good representation about a real heartbreak, how lost and alone you feel despite being surrounded by people who love you.
It’s a safe book
Quite romantic
Have a third break act but there’s some grovel.
H is stupid stupid stupid and left her alone for much time for my taste
There’s no other people throughout that time
The secondary characters are good, one of them a jerk of epic proportions, and the next couple.
Today is released the next book, sounds good too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2023
3:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice :🌶🌶🌶🌶
I have mixed feelings about this book. I feel it has a tad bit too much of internal monologue and the book could be a bit shorter. I liked the story, liked the heroine and the hero. Forbidden romance, boss and employee, lots of smut. But I got bored closer to the end. I was skipping pages. The farmhouse scene had a little mistake, she arrived in “jeans and a simple blouse” but when they got to business she was in a maxi dress somehow.
Spice :🌶🌶🌶🌶
I have mixed feelings about this book. I feel it has a tad bit too much of internal monologue and the book could be a bit shorter. I liked the story, liked the heroine and the hero. Forbidden romance, boss and employee, lots of smut. But I got bored closer to the end. I was skipping pages. The farmhouse scene had a little mistake, she arrived in “jeans and a simple blouse” but when they got to business she was in a maxi dress somehow.
November 23, 2022
After Hours is one of those novels that’s has it all! it’s absolute perfection and there wasn’t one thing i didn’t like or enjoy. Without a doubt, After Hours is a must read, the story telling is epic and it’s one i’ll be shouting about to anyone i know to pick up and meet this world!
To begin we have the introductions and the build up… Friendships are formed and personalities are revealed..
Lauren is feisty full of sass. She’s witty and her one liners will have you grinning from ear to ear. She becomes brazen and she’s definitely a breath of fresh air!
At the start her and Cain are intense. walking on eggshells chemistry, so much sexual tension there… when they come together believe me fireworks explode!
Cain Carson Ivory - (even the cacti that he is🌵) just hit my list of fave book boyfriends!
To begin he is cold and harsh. the successful arrogant one then, when the chemistry and pull is too much and it gives in, he is beyond steam and sexy. Swoony, passionate and will become your new obsession! He’s the kind of alpha i love, Hot, protective, powerful successful and he has been knocked off his feet. Out for revenge this mana history has had a huge impact on him.
The story gives you every feeling you want and need, Excitement, all the flutters in all the right places, happiness, emotions are high, i sobbed and sobbed my heart out.
It didn’t break it shattered and i think cried none stop for an hour at one point. But fear not, all the best books break you the hardest but the relief and elation that comes after makes it all worth it.
An absolutely incredible story with the most lovable characters and i didn’t want it to end but i devoured because it’s unputdownable!
Lauren and Cain are one of those couples you could read about forever!
There’s just one question you’ll have at the end …
Who’s story do we get next?!
To begin we have the introductions and the build up… Friendships are formed and personalities are revealed..
Lauren is feisty full of sass. She’s witty and her one liners will have you grinning from ear to ear. She becomes brazen and she’s definitely a breath of fresh air!
At the start her and Cain are intense. walking on eggshells chemistry, so much sexual tension there… when they come together believe me fireworks explode!
Cain Carson Ivory - (even the cacti that he is🌵) just hit my list of fave book boyfriends!
To begin he is cold and harsh. the successful arrogant one then, when the chemistry and pull is too much and it gives in, he is beyond steam and sexy. Swoony, passionate and will become your new obsession! He’s the kind of alpha i love, Hot, protective, powerful successful and he has been knocked off his feet. Out for revenge this mana history has had a huge impact on him.
The story gives you every feeling you want and need, Excitement, all the flutters in all the right places, happiness, emotions are high, i sobbed and sobbed my heart out.
It didn’t break it shattered and i think cried none stop for an hour at one point. But fear not, all the best books break you the hardest but the relief and elation that comes after makes it all worth it.
An absolutely incredible story with the most lovable characters and i didn’t want it to end but i devoured because it’s unputdownable!
Lauren and Cain are one of those couples you could read about forever!
There’s just one question you’ll have at the end …
Who’s story do we get next?!
November 29, 2022
4.25 Stars! 💗
Having read Ms.Thomas's once before i've been wanting to pick up more of her books! As soon as i stumbled across a post for this one on social media it caught my eye right away! I knew i had to read it next. I picked it up and got right into The Hours world! I really enjoyed this story so much!
Lauren and Cain's journey pulled me in right from the get go! Cain is Lauren's boss. These two collide in quite the memorable fashion that leaves Lauren with a concussion. These two aren't each other's biggest fans after that, but what happens when certain sparks can't be ignored?
The back and forth between Lauren and Cain and the way they got under each other's skin was so entertaining! Lauren wasn't one to back down and neither was Cain. Seriously, these two pulled me in so quickly and kept me glued to my kindle. I really liked the different way they were brought together. I didn't know how they'd tackle everything thrown their way plus their feelings.
The chemistry between Cain and Lauren was so heat filled. I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two. I loved the way they had me going through all sorts of emotions from start to finish! I didn't know how everything was going to play out for Lauren and Cain and that got me even more into their story.
It was awesome getting into The Hours world! I so enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story as well!
With After Hours, Ms.Thomas has created such a great and addictive read that you won't want to turn away from! She brought all kinds of feels with this one! I can't wait for more from her and the The Hours Series! 💗
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Having read Ms.Thomas's once before i've been wanting to pick up more of her books! As soon as i stumbled across a post for this one on social media it caught my eye right away! I knew i had to read it next. I picked it up and got right into The Hours world! I really enjoyed this story so much!
Lauren and Cain's journey pulled me in right from the get go! Cain is Lauren's boss. These two collide in quite the memorable fashion that leaves Lauren with a concussion. These two aren't each other's biggest fans after that, but what happens when certain sparks can't be ignored?
The back and forth between Lauren and Cain and the way they got under each other's skin was so entertaining! Lauren wasn't one to back down and neither was Cain. Seriously, these two pulled me in so quickly and kept me glued to my kindle. I really liked the different way they were brought together. I didn't know how they'd tackle everything thrown their way plus their feelings.
The chemistry between Cain and Lauren was so heat filled. I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two. I loved the way they had me going through all sorts of emotions from start to finish! I didn't know how everything was going to play out for Lauren and Cain and that got me even more into their story.
It was awesome getting into The Hours world! I so enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story as well!
With After Hours, Ms.Thomas has created such a great and addictive read that you won't want to turn away from! She brought all kinds of feels with this one! I can't wait for more from her and the The Hours Series! 💗
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
December 3, 2022
📖 𝕖𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 📖
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚: 𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: 𝘈.𝘙. 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘴
𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 (𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 #1)
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘍
𝙋𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨: 422
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶🌶🌶/5
𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙜: 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘈𝘵𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴 - 𝘗𝘢𝘪𝘯 & 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
*** Thank you to the author @arthomasauthor and @peachykeenas for giving me a change to read this book.***
__________💭𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜💭___________
"𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘯. 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
✔️ Billionaire
✔️ Secret Relationship
✔️ Workplace Romance
✔️ Forbidden Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Revenge
"𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶. 𝘔𝘦. 𝘜𝘴."
𝘼𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 is my first A. R. Thomas book, and I loved every second of it. This book is an amazing start to this series! I was hooked from the first few pages. Since it was my first time reading this author, as I said, I was not sure what to expect. At the end I was sooo happy I signed up to review this book and I will for sure be reading more books by this author.
"𝘐'𝘮 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳."
Cain Carson-Ivory, my God he is a man I wish were real here where I live. So freeking hot and sexy and the smut...OH. MY. GOD. The banter between Cain and Lauren is just so jummy and amazing. There were so many twists and turns in this book and it was frikin AMAZING. This book keeps your attention from begining to the very end. All the hurt these two had to endure broke my heart. I love how their whole crew comes together to ensure their happy ending. I can not wait to see what comes next for this group.
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚: 𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: 𝘈.𝘙. 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘴
𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 (𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 #1)
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘍
𝙋𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨: 422
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶🌶🌶/5
𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙜: 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘈𝘵𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴 - 𝘗𝘢𝘪𝘯 & 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
*** Thank you to the author @arthomasauthor and @peachykeenas for giving me a change to read this book.***
__________💭𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜💭___________
"𝘈𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘯. 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
✔️ Billionaire
✔️ Secret Relationship
✔️ Workplace Romance
✔️ Forbidden Romance
✔️ Enemies to Lovers
✔️ Revenge
"𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶. 𝘔𝘦. 𝘜𝘴."
𝘼𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 is my first A. R. Thomas book, and I loved every second of it. This book is an amazing start to this series! I was hooked from the first few pages. Since it was my first time reading this author, as I said, I was not sure what to expect. At the end I was sooo happy I signed up to review this book and I will for sure be reading more books by this author.
"𝘐'𝘮 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳."
Cain Carson-Ivory, my God he is a man I wish were real here where I live. So freeking hot and sexy and the smut...OH. MY. GOD. The banter between Cain and Lauren is just so jummy and amazing. There were so many twists and turns in this book and it was frikin AMAZING. This book keeps your attention from begining to the very end. All the hurt these two had to endure broke my heart. I love how their whole crew comes together to ensure their happy ending. I can not wait to see what comes next for this group.
![Profile Image for Corinne [hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1603449181i%2F94376563._UY200_CR13%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 10, 2023
📖 Contemporary / workplace romance
*billionaire, brooding hero
*cheeky heroine
*tabboo workplace romance
*insta-lust
*hate to love
*takes place in England
Lauren is working in the luxury hotel owned by Cain. Meet cute is her being hit in the head by a revolving door by Cain's friend and then proceeding to puke all over Cain. He then fires her and treats her poorly, commenting on her appearance. Lawsuit waiting to happen, this guy!
Lauren is described as shy but she has no issue putting Cain in his place several times. They end up having a one-night stand that turns into a weekend of debauchery. And they fall in love pretty fast after that.
I would say this book had some potential but it is plagued by some issues:
>>> the author tried to cover both POVs too extensively. She would tell a scene from Lauren's POV and then go back to tell it from Cain's POV. It was just too much and too boring.
>>> the pacing was rather slow but the relationship was not really developed outside of the sexual chemistry part. I still don't know what these 2 characters have in common aside from the bedside manner.
>>> the forbidden boss - employee relationship was too emphasized. He was the boss. He could easily change the policies but the author opted to make a big deal out of this. I just couldn't see the point
>>> the way the 3rd act drama was handled bothered me. The heroine had a pretty good idea about the hero's reasons for doing what he did. Instead of having her simply forgive him because he was human too and her acknowledging that she was afraid to be hurt again, the author had her change her mind and accept the bulshit argument the hero was feeding her. I felt gaslight on her behalf really.
*billionaire, brooding hero
*cheeky heroine
*tabboo workplace romance
*insta-lust
*hate to love
*takes place in England
Lauren is working in the luxury hotel owned by Cain. Meet cute is her being hit in the head by a revolving door by Cain's friend and then proceeding to puke all over Cain. He then fires her and treats her poorly, commenting on her appearance. Lawsuit waiting to happen, this guy!
Lauren is described as shy but she has no issue putting Cain in his place several times. They end up having a one-night stand that turns into a weekend of debauchery. And they fall in love pretty fast after that.
I would say this book had some potential but it is plagued by some issues:
>>> the author tried to cover both POVs too extensively. She would tell a scene from Lauren's POV and then go back to tell it from Cain's POV. It was just too much and too boring.
>>> the pacing was rather slow but the relationship was not really developed outside of the sexual chemistry part. I still don't know what these 2 characters have in common aside from the bedside manner.
>>> the forbidden boss - employee relationship was too emphasized. He was the boss. He could easily change the policies but the author opted to make a big deal out of this. I just couldn't see the point
>>> the way the 3rd act drama was handled bothered me. The heroine had a pretty good idea about the hero's reasons for doing what he did. Instead of having her simply forgive him because he was human too and her acknowledging that she was afraid to be hurt again, the author had her change her mind and accept the bulshit argument the hero was feeding her. I felt gaslight on her behalf really.
December 3, 2022
After Hours is available now in Paperback and eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐️ Book Review
Meet the Author: A. R. Thomas is an author from England who writes contemporary and dark romance. After being an avid reader for years she realized she needed more than to be on the receiving end of a good book, she wanted to deliver one. What started as a hobby soon became an obsession.
Synopsis: “It was a good idea until it wasn’t. And now he despises me.” From a collision causing a concussion to a drinking episode that led to her vomiting on his expensive shoes, Cain and Lauren couldn’t possibly dislike each other any more. Until they agree to one night together that turns into a weekend. All bets are off when you can’t help but fall in love with your boss.
Reader’s Thoughts: Lauren and Cain’s story was full of pain, heartache, witty banter, chemistry, and tension. There was never a dull moment. I thoroughly enjoyed how Thomas writes allowing the reader to feel every emotion between all the characters. Lauren and Cain both carried baggage from their past that they needed to overcome. I enjoyed that when the two of them weren't getting under each other's skin, they were pushing each other to be better people. The secondary characters in After Hours played important roles in this novel, pushing for a happy ever after, leaving me with hope that their stories will be told as well! Thank you, @arthomasauthor for providing me with a complimentary review copy. In no way has that influenced my voluntary review.
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐️ Book Review
Meet the Author: A. R. Thomas is an author from England who writes contemporary and dark romance. After being an avid reader for years she realized she needed more than to be on the receiving end of a good book, she wanted to deliver one. What started as a hobby soon became an obsession.
Synopsis: “It was a good idea until it wasn’t. And now he despises me.” From a collision causing a concussion to a drinking episode that led to her vomiting on his expensive shoes, Cain and Lauren couldn’t possibly dislike each other any more. Until they agree to one night together that turns into a weekend. All bets are off when you can’t help but fall in love with your boss.
Reader’s Thoughts: Lauren and Cain’s story was full of pain, heartache, witty banter, chemistry, and tension. There was never a dull moment. I thoroughly enjoyed how Thomas writes allowing the reader to feel every emotion between all the characters. Lauren and Cain both carried baggage from their past that they needed to overcome. I enjoyed that when the two of them weren't getting under each other's skin, they were pushing each other to be better people. The secondary characters in After Hours played important roles in this novel, pushing for a happy ever after, leaving me with hope that their stories will be told as well! Thank you, @arthomasauthor for providing me with a complimentary review copy. In no way has that influenced my voluntary review.
December 2, 2022
I am obsessed with this whole group of friends and I'm not shy about it either. The first meet between Cain and Lauren is just epic and ends with some black eyes, vomit and the introduction of our favorite friend Perry. Bossman Cain spends so much time trying to hide his attraction and obsession with Lauren by being mean to her in that typical schoolboy kind of way. Lauren gives it right back to him which makes their showdowns rise to nuclear levels at times. It is the very best kind of build up of all that tension along the way! And when they do give into it, their are super spicy. Their weekend of giving in quickly escalates into more and their chemistry in undeniable.
I think what I appreciate the most is that this just isn't a boss-employee trope and that there are so many layers to the plot. Lauren has her own past she is running from and Cain definitely has a lot going on when he goes up against his step father Royce. Nearly at every turn in the book, these two are combating some type of crazy moment they find themselves in and their pain was heartbreaking along the way for us readers. Thankfully they got their HEA but definitely not without those bumps along the way. And I totally agree with some of the other reviews that I wanted wayy more groveling from Cain towards the end but even without all that groveling, I still love it! I loved everything about this emotional, steamy and yet funny and sweet story for these two. I can't wait to read Matt and Perry's books!
I think what I appreciate the most is that this just isn't a boss-employee trope and that there are so many layers to the plot. Lauren has her own past she is running from and Cain definitely has a lot going on when he goes up against his step father Royce. Nearly at every turn in the book, these two are combating some type of crazy moment they find themselves in and their pain was heartbreaking along the way for us readers. Thankfully they got their HEA but definitely not without those bumps along the way. And I totally agree with some of the other reviews that I wanted wayy more groveling from Cain towards the end but even without all that groveling, I still love it! I loved everything about this emotional, steamy and yet funny and sweet story for these two. I can't wait to read Matt and Perry's books!
December 5, 2022
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of After Hours in exchange for an honest review.*
I read After Hours just coming off of a very dark romance book so diving into After Hours was a nice mental break from the heaviness of my previous read.
After Hours is an employee/boss trope book that revolves around Cain (Male Main Character) and Lauren (Female Main Character) their world, and friends. Cain is a wealthy, attractive billionaire working on making things right for everything that was wronged in his life. Lauren’s sass is something that Cain finds irresistible and wants more of.
How do our main characters end up doing the deed? Well, Cain cannot help himself and this desire he has for Lauren and he knows she feels it too. They spend a weekend together however that isn’t enough for Cain. With Cain being Lauren’s boss dating/sleeping with co workers and employees is something he shouldn’t do but he has to have her again. Cain then decides that to keep Lauren and get what he wants he will take her After the Hours of work.
Did I love this book? Yes I did. It was a fun office/hotel boss/employee romance with some interesting elements to it.
If you love:
Boss/Employee
Forbidden Love
Revenge
Sassy FMC
Workplace Romance
Billionaire
After Hours is a great quick read and you won’t be disappointed.
I read After Hours just coming off of a very dark romance book so diving into After Hours was a nice mental break from the heaviness of my previous read.
After Hours is an employee/boss trope book that revolves around Cain (Male Main Character) and Lauren (Female Main Character) their world, and friends. Cain is a wealthy, attractive billionaire working on making things right for everything that was wronged in his life. Lauren’s sass is something that Cain finds irresistible and wants more of.
How do our main characters end up doing the deed? Well, Cain cannot help himself and this desire he has for Lauren and he knows she feels it too. They spend a weekend together however that isn’t enough for Cain. With Cain being Lauren’s boss dating/sleeping with co workers and employees is something he shouldn’t do but he has to have her again. Cain then decides that to keep Lauren and get what he wants he will take her After the Hours of work.
Did I love this book? Yes I did. It was a fun office/hotel boss/employee romance with some interesting elements to it.
If you love:
Boss/Employee
Forbidden Love
Revenge
Sassy FMC
Workplace Romance
Billionaire
After Hours is a great quick read and you won’t be disappointed.
July 15, 2024
Ok i expected more groveling but at this point i don't even know what groveling means anymore. Picked this up because im a sucker for angsty romance but honestly it could've been better.
Writing's fine, i feel like its more of a wattpad kind of writing but you go girl
Happy end, predictable writing, overall 2.5/5
-spoilers-
I think that the ml is just a big a hole. The girl has been through so much just for her to forgive him like that. I mean he left her for 3 months then expect to be forgiven in two days?? Wake tf up. Bla bla 'He's trying to protect her' 'he has trauma' honestly the fl's pain is too overlooked like i get it you're hurting doesn't make it right obvi. Aside from all that this book is just basically about how he loves her kitty like ok we get it (not that im complaining). And i understand with the premise 'If you love her, let her go' but is that really the right thing? Oh i have an idea what if you stop making decisions for her lol
I just think that she shouldn't have forgiven him that quick that's all
Despite this tho, lemme tell you something about my man Matt, He's a doctor and honestly what more can i say HWHEHE. This man is ARHHDJKSKA . i feel like he's the only one who's actually taking into consider of the fl pain like if i was her bsf i wouldnt even let her see cain like tf (talking to you AMBERLY)
Anyway Matteo 🔛🔝
Writing's fine, i feel like its more of a wattpad kind of writing but you go girl
Happy end, predictable writing, overall 2.5/5
-spoilers-
I think that the ml is just a big a hole. The girl has been through so much just for her to forgive him like that. I mean he left her for 3 months then expect to be forgiven in two days?? Wake tf up. Bla bla 'He's trying to protect her' 'he has trauma' honestly the fl's pain is too overlooked like i get it you're hurting doesn't make it right obvi. Aside from all that this book is just basically about how he loves her kitty like ok we get it (not that im complaining). And i understand with the premise 'If you love her, let her go' but is that really the right thing? Oh i have an idea what if you stop making decisions for her lol
I just think that she shouldn't have forgiven him that quick that's all
Despite this tho, lemme tell you something about my man Matt, He's a doctor and honestly what more can i say HWHEHE. This man is ARHHDJKSKA . i feel like he's the only one who's actually taking into consider of the fl pain like if i was her bsf i wouldnt even let her see cain like tf (talking to you AMBERLY)
Anyway Matteo 🔛🔝
November 29, 2022
This book has it all; sassy female lead character, hot boss,chemistry that is off the scales, great group of other characters who add to the story too, great plot and more.
The book is the first in the series and concentrates on the relationship of Lauren (front of house assistant at a major hotel) and Cain (the owner of the hotel). After an unfortunate incident occurs at the hotel, where Lauren ends up concussed, the pair clash and Lauren stands her ground to Cain’s detriment when she decorates his shoes in her sick.
Instantly, we can tell their will be fireworks and it’s like bonfire night with them. Lauren, believes that Cain hates her and that he’s always picking on her but she couldn’t be further from the truth.
Neither have ever felt a connection like it and Cain doesn’t know how to deal with it as there is a no fraternisation policy at work and he can hardly go against his own rules. This leads to them sneaking in some after hours trysts.
I won’t tell you anymore except that this author, once again, gives you a great plot, characters and lots of laughs and tears. I am so glad that this book is part of a series and that we get to see more of all the characters as there is a great dynamic between them all.
The book is the first in the series and concentrates on the relationship of Lauren (front of house assistant at a major hotel) and Cain (the owner of the hotel). After an unfortunate incident occurs at the hotel, where Lauren ends up concussed, the pair clash and Lauren stands her ground to Cain’s detriment when she decorates his shoes in her sick.
Instantly, we can tell their will be fireworks and it’s like bonfire night with them. Lauren, believes that Cain hates her and that he’s always picking on her but she couldn’t be further from the truth.
Neither have ever felt a connection like it and Cain doesn’t know how to deal with it as there is a no fraternisation policy at work and he can hardly go against his own rules. This leads to them sneaking in some after hours trysts.
I won’t tell you anymore except that this author, once again, gives you a great plot, characters and lots of laughs and tears. I am so glad that this book is part of a series and that we get to see more of all the characters as there is a great dynamic between them all.
December 6, 2022
I am really glad to have stuck with this book and finished it out! I was struggling with the first 30% or so, but the book picked up and was great through the end.
I loved Lauren the whole time for her bravery and strength. She was an excellent FMC. I was a little concerned at the end that she’d become a pushover, but she stayed strong and was likable all around. I won’t give spoilers, but I wish I had a fraction of her confidence.
I think this author does a much better job during the lovers portion of “enemies to lovers.” I found the enemies section hard to follow - in the middle of the scene, the conversations would be transported all over the place, and I kept having to reread to take stock of where I was supposed to place a conversation. Similarly, it seemed like temperatures would escalate *very* quickly and it sometimes came out of nowhere. This tended to improve maybe a third of the way through too (or maybe I just got used to the writing style!)
One other note is that I didn’t realize this author was british, so I kept having to google british slang to understand some of the terms. Just something to keep in mind!
Overall I enjoyed this book, so I’m rounding up from 3.5 stars to 4. I loved Lauren and think she makes it worth the read.
I loved Lauren the whole time for her bravery and strength. She was an excellent FMC. I was a little concerned at the end that she’d become a pushover, but she stayed strong and was likable all around. I won’t give spoilers, but I wish I had a fraction of her confidence.
I think this author does a much better job during the lovers portion of “enemies to lovers.” I found the enemies section hard to follow - in the middle of the scene, the conversations would be transported all over the place, and I kept having to reread to take stock of where I was supposed to place a conversation. Similarly, it seemed like temperatures would escalate *very* quickly and it sometimes came out of nowhere. This tended to improve maybe a third of the way through too (or maybe I just got used to the writing style!)
One other note is that I didn’t realize this author was british, so I kept having to google british slang to understand some of the terms. Just something to keep in mind!
Overall I enjoyed this book, so I’m rounding up from 3.5 stars to 4. I loved Lauren and think she makes it worth the read.
December 6, 2022
I fell in love with reading this book and the dynamic between characters! It is extremely well written.
Lauren who is our FMC relocated to London due to her ex and best friend having an affair, betraying her. Her self worth took a huge hit along with giving her trust issues. While most want to leave a good first impression with their new bosses, unfortunately she did not. Her first meeting with Cain resulted in her throwing up on him (I did laugh 😂), of course he didn’t find it funny or amusing and it resulted in her being fired on the spot. She does know how to put him in his place and stick up for herself
Cain, our MMC comes off as a jackass who has everything. To some he might appear a snob because he has it all. Wealth, sexy, hardworking, successful however he has a motive and a goal behind it. He wants revenge for his father and does not want anything coming in the way of his plans. However he doesn’t expect a beautiful woman to capture his attention. He knows what he wants and how he wants it.
The attraction between these two is off the charts and despite their first meeting you can still see the tension. Ya’ll it is spicy. There are bits that I would have liked more information on, like explanations however overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book
Lauren who is our FMC relocated to London due to her ex and best friend having an affair, betraying her. Her self worth took a huge hit along with giving her trust issues. While most want to leave a good first impression with their new bosses, unfortunately she did not. Her first meeting with Cain resulted in her throwing up on him (I did laugh 😂), of course he didn’t find it funny or amusing and it resulted in her being fired on the spot. She does know how to put him in his place and stick up for herself
Cain, our MMC comes off as a jackass who has everything. To some he might appear a snob because he has it all. Wealth, sexy, hardworking, successful however he has a motive and a goal behind it. He wants revenge for his father and does not want anything coming in the way of his plans. However he doesn’t expect a beautiful woman to capture his attention. He knows what he wants and how he wants it.
The attraction between these two is off the charts and despite their first meeting you can still see the tension. Ya’ll it is spicy. There are bits that I would have liked more information on, like explanations however overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book
December 8, 2022
Firstly, I can't Love this book enough... i didnt want it to end!! Cain is such an arrogant, deep, and hard man who screams power and dominance. He gets what he wants, all the time, everytime. So when Lauren steps into his world, her finger-pointing and filthy mouth, she tips his world into an unknown territory.. he starts to have emotion, emotions unknown to him, which he fights against, and he fights hard, because he can't lose track of what he is out to achieve.. vengeance. So Lauren is a distraction.. he doesn't know how to navigate this new relationship. But he cant stop it from happening. Their relationship forms, and she is so giving of herself, even after what has happened to her. She started to trust him again. Their love blooms - with obstacles of course.. but with amazing friendships formed, they get through a lot... until they don't💔
I have to admit, my heart pinched with hurt quite a few times, for both Lauren and Cain, and yes there were tears😭 Thankfully their story ends happily.❤ and I feel whole again.
Even though Cain was a cactus, he redeemed himself🌵😁🤗 can't wait for the next book in the series "Stolen Hours". Thank you A.R Thomas for another gripping, heart-melting story that I couldn't put down.
I have to admit, my heart pinched with hurt quite a few times, for both Lauren and Cain, and yes there were tears😭 Thankfully their story ends happily.❤ and I feel whole again.
Even though Cain was a cactus, he redeemed himself🌵😁🤗 can't wait for the next book in the series "Stolen Hours". Thank you A.R Thomas for another gripping, heart-melting story that I couldn't put down.
September 8, 2023
4.5 stars!
Quick rundown:
- Workplace hidden romance
- Enemies to lovers
- Billionaire
- Grovelling.
The chemistry between Cain and Lauren is OFF THE CHARTS. Every time they are together, there’s such a tension radiating off the page.
Of course this is AFTER Cain pulled his head out of his arse and stopped pulling her pigtails. He was such a cacti prick to her, but to be fair, parts of it was Lauren misinterpreting his glares as anger or disdain, when it was just pure lust. Come on, the man went to the hospital for her after just one meeting.
All the spicy scenes were dripping with so much lust, and something more. I truly enjoy the writing style.
Throughout the book I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and boy did it. An entire Clarks store fell on them. So much drama and heartache, especially at the end.
I loved the chaotic Perry. Him insisting on calling Lauren alien cracks me up every time. I enjoy all the side characters, and can’t wait to find out more about them.
Quick rundown:
- Workplace hidden romance
- Enemies to lovers
- Billionaire
- Grovelling.
The chemistry between Cain and Lauren is OFF THE CHARTS. Every time they are together, there’s such a tension radiating off the page.
Of course this is AFTER Cain pulled his head out of his arse and stopped pulling her pigtails. He was such a cacti prick to her, but to be fair, parts of it was Lauren misinterpreting his glares as anger or disdain, when it was just pure lust. Come on, the man went to the hospital for her after just one meeting.
All the spicy scenes were dripping with so much lust, and something more. I truly enjoy the writing style.
Throughout the book I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and boy did it. An entire Clarks store fell on them. So much drama and heartache, especially at the end.
I loved the chaotic Perry. Him insisting on calling Lauren alien cracks me up every time. I enjoy all the side characters, and can’t wait to find out more about them.
November 29, 2022
This book was amazing! Very few Office romances catch my eye, but After Hours was just wow! Everything in the book was so well balanced. I was hooked.
The Characters were so well portrayed. I loved Lauren! She was so sassy and I love how she would stand up for herself. She had been through so much and I love how strong she was and how she shone through after everything.
Don't even get me started on Cain. Whew. This man was perfect. His dominance, how he carried himself and his chemistry with Lauren was off the charts! But underneath all that, my heart ached for Cain and what he had been through.
The character development, arc, and everything about this book was amazing! These two had insane chemistry and they were on fire! The book ended so well and left me completely satisfied.
This book made me laugh, cry, ache, and even made my heart flutter. I loved this book and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a forbidden, enemies to lovers, office romance that has off the charts chemistry, spice, and just gives you all the feels! Read this book and you will not regret it!
(4.5 stars)
The Characters were so well portrayed. I loved Lauren! She was so sassy and I love how she would stand up for herself. She had been through so much and I love how strong she was and how she shone through after everything.
Don't even get me started on Cain. Whew. This man was perfect. His dominance, how he carried himself and his chemistry with Lauren was off the charts! But underneath all that, my heart ached for Cain and what he had been through.
The character development, arc, and everything about this book was amazing! These two had insane chemistry and they were on fire! The book ended so well and left me completely satisfied.
This book made me laugh, cry, ache, and even made my heart flutter. I loved this book and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a forbidden, enemies to lovers, office romance that has off the charts chemistry, spice, and just gives you all the feels! Read this book and you will not regret it!
(4.5 stars)
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