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Promise and Punishment
Kissing my older boss, Alejandro Rivera-Marquez, on the edge of a rooftop was supposed to be perfect. And it was, until my first love, Parker Jones, had him arrested.
Alejandro was Hollywood’s hottest star and biggest bad boy, and the secrets swirling his recent lawsuit had my best friend and New York’s most vicious lawyer, Parker, desperate to keep me from suffering the same fate as the mysterious woman who circled Alejandro’s case.
Parker wanted to prove that Alejandro was a bad man, and I wanted to prove him wrong. But when Alejandro abandoned me following shocking accusations, I was left questioning everything I believed about him, about us.
Left alone and heartbroken, Parker was determined to remain the one constant in my life, stealing me away for our annual summer vacation, where our relationship as I knew it would change forever.
I never wanted to be caught in a triangle with two of the most powerful men in my life, let alone stuck between one’s unbreakable promise and the other’s unspeakable secret.
How could I ever choose one relationship when I know it will cost me the other?
Alejandro was Hollywood’s hottest star and biggest bad boy, and the secrets swirling his recent lawsuit had my best friend and New York’s most vicious lawyer, Parker, desperate to keep me from suffering the same fate as the mysterious woman who circled Alejandro’s case.
Parker wanted to prove that Alejandro was a bad man, and I wanted to prove him wrong. But when Alejandro abandoned me following shocking accusations, I was left questioning everything I believed about him, about us.
Left alone and heartbroken, Parker was determined to remain the one constant in my life, stealing me away for our annual summer vacation, where our relationship as I knew it would change forever.
I never wanted to be caught in a triangle with two of the most powerful men in my life, let alone stuck between one’s unbreakable promise and the other’s unspeakable secret.
How could I ever choose one relationship when I know it will cost me the other?
- GenresRomanceFriends To Lovers
540 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2023
18 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Vivian Mae
7 books308 followersVivian Mae is a Latina indie author who writes contemporary romance with spice, angst, and emotionally complicated love stories with happily ever afters. She enjoys creating steamy stories on the complicated and angsty side, because the more emotional the better the payout, right?
She lives in Arizona with her husband/best friend/apple of her eye. They are living their own second chance/friends to lovers romance trope.
When she isn’t writing, you can find her laughing alongside her husband, binging trashy T.V., sneaking chocolates, reading her favorite naughty novels, rewatching her favorite horror films, scrolling through Netflix for waaaay too long, and dreaming about pizza and wine.
You can find Vivian on the following platforms:
Instagram - @vivianmaewrites
TikTok - @vivianmaewrites , @vivianmaeauthor (backup)
Pinterest - Vivian Mae Writes
Facebook - Vivian Mae
Bookbub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/vivia...
Verve - https://ververomance.com/app/vivianma...
Website: https://www.vivianmae.com
Newsletter sign up: https://www.vivianmae.com/newsletter
She lives in Arizona with her husband/best friend/apple of her eye. They are living their own second chance/friends to lovers romance trope.
When she isn’t writing, you can find her laughing alongside her husband, binging trashy T.V., sneaking chocolates, reading her favorite naughty novels, rewatching her favorite horror films, scrolling through Netflix for waaaay too long, and dreaming about pizza and wine.
You can find Vivian on the following platforms:
Instagram - @vivianmaewrites
TikTok - @vivianmaewrites , @vivianmaeauthor (backup)
Pinterest - Vivian Mae Writes
Facebook - Vivian Mae
Bookbub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/vivia...
Verve - https://ververomance.com/app/vivianma...
Website: https://www.vivianmae.com
Newsletter sign up: https://www.vivianmae.com/newsletter
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 18, 2023
I started this book on Team Alex and I'm still firmly on Team Alex. This story was emotionally charged, maddening yet sensational. Makes you want to knock some heads together and kick some ass.
It's like a jousting match between the mysterious dark knight and the kingdoms champion. Who will Lady Gemma bestow her favor upon??
Even though my loyalties lay with Alex, my heart does go out to Parker. He and Gemma should have had the whole childhood sweethearts dream, but, you snooze you lose!!! Sorry, I'm being mean and that's not fair to Parker. I really do think him and Gemma would make a beautiful couple, but I'm a sucker for a tortured soul. Alex is full of excitement and intrigue, like every day would be a new adventure. He's just so swoon worthy and I love him!!
Now that I'm on a roll, I have to say, Camilla is my new arch nemesis!! I was starting to like her but then she had to go and ruin things and it makes me want to kick her in the teeth!!
In case you can't tell, I flipping LOVE this story!! Vivian Mae has pulled me in to this world and I'm fully invested in it! I'm currently loving her and annoyed with her for the way she left me hanging at the end. So not cool! 😝
If you've read Lawsuit and Leather, you are going to fall in love with Promise and Punishment. If you haven't read it, what the hell are you waiting for!!??
It's like a jousting match between the mysterious dark knight and the kingdoms champion. Who will Lady Gemma bestow her favor upon??
Even though my loyalties lay with Alex, my heart does go out to Parker. He and Gemma should have had the whole childhood sweethearts dream, but, you snooze you lose!!! Sorry, I'm being mean and that's not fair to Parker. I really do think him and Gemma would make a beautiful couple, but I'm a sucker for a tortured soul. Alex is full of excitement and intrigue, like every day would be a new adventure. He's just so swoon worthy and I love him!!
Now that I'm on a roll, I have to say, Camilla is my new arch nemesis!! I was starting to like her but then she had to go and ruin things and it makes me want to kick her in the teeth!!
In case you can't tell, I flipping LOVE this story!! Vivian Mae has pulled me in to this world and I'm fully invested in it! I'm currently loving her and annoyed with her for the way she left me hanging at the end. So not cool! 😝
If you've read Lawsuit and Leather, you are going to fall in love with Promise and Punishment. If you haven't read it, what the hell are you waiting for!!??
March 21, 2023
Vivian Mae has done it again. I'm on the edge of my seat. Enjoyed getting to spend more time with Gemma, Alejandro & Parker. The roller coaster ride continued throughout this book. I can tell you one thing though - Camilla sucks. She pissed me off even more in this book than she did in L&L. I'm dying to know where Gemma will land. And much like I felt when I finished Lawsuit & Leather - I can't decide if I'm Team Parker or Team Alejandro! Come on Book 3 - I'll be waiting with baited breath!
March 21, 2023
"Don't talk to me like some Brat. I'm not you're f@#$ing daddy, but since you're sneaking out like a little girl. I'll treat you like one" 🥵🥵🥵🥵 Let me tell you the character development in this book is *chef's kiss* 🤌😘. I have officially been stolen over to Team Parker 👔. You will not be able to put the book down!!! From the steamy scenes 🥵🥵🥵❤️😍😍 to daddy Parker, you'll wanna devour this book in one sitting!! 😍😍😍😍
June 19, 2023
This book is EVERYTHING.
You know that quote - Some books you read. Some books you enjoy. But some books just swallow you up heart and soul.
That’s it. That’s how I feel.
Once I started reading I could not stop. I was pulled right in with all of the angst and suspense, the slow burn is SO GOOD.
Gemma has been through so much, and I could not love her more. I was so proud of her in this book for standing up for herself and making decisions based on what she wanted instead of trying to please everyone. She has the biggest heart, and I can relate to her in so many ways.
Alejandro meant business this time around when it came to Gemma. He was determined that she would be his. And the mouth on him? Whew.
You know that quote - Some books you read. Some books you enjoy. But some books just swallow you up heart and soul.
That’s it. That’s how I feel.
Once I started reading I could not stop. I was pulled right in with all of the angst and suspense, the slow burn is SO GOOD.
Gemma has been through so much, and I could not love her more. I was so proud of her in this book for standing up for herself and making decisions based on what she wanted instead of trying to please everyone. She has the biggest heart, and I can relate to her in so many ways.
Alejandro meant business this time around when it came to Gemma. He was determined that she would be his. And the mouth on him? Whew.
March 23, 2023
Get ready to fall even more in love with these 3 characters (and most of the side characters, Henri & Dean😍) because Vivian Mae has wrote another winner!! I have to be honest after book 1 I didn’t have a man team, I was low key on team Gemma, whatever would make her happy. But let me tell you after book 2 I have firmly picked a team! And I am team Parker! I love love love childhood best friends to lover and though in book 1 Parker comes across as someone who is self seeking and rude, book 2 really shines light on all the characters and I felt like I really got to know them!
After Book 2 these are my thoughts:
Gemma is still absolutely a queen who was dealt a crappy card growing up and genuinely deserves the world. Things have not always come easy, and because of her sunshine Gemma is often guarded from the darkness. But Gemma is finally getting her wings, and I have a feeling this beautiful butterfly is going to get her chance to fly in book 3, and I can’t freaking wait!
Alejandro, oh how I loved getting to see what made him who he is and learn more about what is going on in his life! The moments that were good with him had me swaying to team Alejandro. He was spicy hot and had a dirty mouth. But there were some red flags and some moments where I wanted to scream into the book..
Parker, MY FREAKING HEART! Learning the things he did for Gemma as a little girl made my heart explode! And the way that he believed that he was protecting her all that time when really he was what she needed! As a small child he was told things and made to believe things that could have never been determined at the age he was. And Andy🥹 iykyk!! I can’t I’m firmly team Parker, even though I think he has made mistakes and has had protection blinders on where he does things without thinking because he believes he is protecting Gemma but really it was pushing her away. I’m rooting for him!
Camilla, well let’s be honest she could quite literally fall in a hole and I would be okay, sorry not sorry🤷♀️
I know I’m going to absolutely lose my mind over book 3 and I AM SO READY! Thank you Vivian for giving us such an amazing story so far and I genuinely can not wait for more!!🤍
After Book 2 these are my thoughts:
Gemma is still absolutely a queen who was dealt a crappy card growing up and genuinely deserves the world. Things have not always come easy, and because of her sunshine Gemma is often guarded from the darkness. But Gemma is finally getting her wings, and I have a feeling this beautiful butterfly is going to get her chance to fly in book 3, and I can’t freaking wait!
Alejandro, oh how I loved getting to see what made him who he is and learn more about what is going on in his life! The moments that were good with him had me swaying to team Alejandro. He was spicy hot and had a dirty mouth. But there were some red flags and some moments where I wanted to scream into the book..
Parker, MY FREAKING HEART! Learning the things he did for Gemma as a little girl made my heart explode! And the way that he believed that he was protecting her all that time when really he was what she needed! As a small child he was told things and made to believe things that could have never been determined at the age he was. And Andy🥹 iykyk!! I can’t I’m firmly team Parker, even though I think he has made mistakes and has had protection blinders on where he does things without thinking because he believes he is protecting Gemma but really it was pushing her away. I’m rooting for him!
Camilla, well let’s be honest she could quite literally fall in a hole and I would be okay, sorry not sorry🤷♀️
I know I’m going to absolutely lose my mind over book 3 and I AM SO READY! Thank you Vivian for giving us such an amazing story so far and I genuinely can not wait for more!!🤍
February 3, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
“Happiness is a treasure, it’s a gemstone… And fuck if I didn’t find the most precious one of all.”
For someone whose favorite plot is love triangles like me, this book has everything you could want delivered in a really wonderful way :
●The entire universe doesn't revolve around the FMC.
●There is actual character development.
●All the spicy scenes are not forced for no goddamn reason. on the contrary, it was stemy and hot and in their right place.
●There is a spotlight on important social issues.
First, I would like to take a moment just to appreciate Vivian effort because she's really a wonderful author, and her writing style is definitely amazing. I can't help but wonder how this series could be so underrated while, frankly, there are so many books that are so overrated and overhyped!
I'm really grateful for that random video that I came across on Pinterest just to be introduced to this wonderful writer.
Now, if someone is wondering if I'm okay, the answer is no, I'm not okay at all.👌
That was a roller-coaster experience. I
I was on Alejandro's team in the first book, and despite all the attempts in this book to make me side with Parker, especially since he is the character I relate to the most, I still support Alejandro's team strongly. I'm sorry, but Parker dear, that's definitely not how we deal with our trauma and feelings and I totally understand his situation but living a shity life doesn't mean you have the right to go and fuck everybody else's life not caring or thinking for a minute about the consequences for what you are doing. I won't deny that he almost got me when he said “Stay with me… pick me. Let me be yours,”
I know how it feels Parker but I believe that " only know you love her when you let her go" it's hard but if you truly love someone you wouldn't like to throw a bomb on them and say "deal with it ." On the contrary, you will be happy because she is happy, especially since you had your moment and opportunity and wasted it of your own free will, and honestly, he just made me feel like he was acting out of jealousy all the time, and the whole thing about being with girls and imagining they were Gemma is disgusting, honestly they deserve better, including Gemma. I don't know, but for me, Parker is a walking red flag.
And like my big boy said “You had your chance with her, and now it’s over.”
And speaking of better may I introduce my big boy Mr. Alejandro Marquez? I just can't feel anything but sorry for him to find out about what happened in a terrible way after he opened up to Gemma and did his best just for her sake. But I think I will only live to know what he will do to fulfill his promise:
As for Gemma, I am really proud of her and the achievement she has achieved, and how she is now trying to truly know herself and always stand for herself. And I guess this book ended with me on Gemma's team so I trust her and hope she will choose the best thing for herself - but It won't hurt if it will be Alejandro though👩🦯👩🦯- which makes me want to mention how well Vivian developed the characters. The developments are noticeable, and I am really looking forward to the third part of the trilogy very much.🥰✨️
“Happiness is a treasure, it’s a gemstone… And fuck if I didn’t find the most precious one of all.”
For someone whose favorite plot is love triangles like me, this book has everything you could want delivered in a really wonderful way :
●The entire universe doesn't revolve around the FMC.
●There is actual character development.
●All the spicy scenes are not forced for no goddamn reason. on the contrary, it was stemy and hot and in their right place.
●There is a spotlight on important social issues.
First, I would like to take a moment just to appreciate Vivian effort because she's really a wonderful author, and her writing style is definitely amazing. I can't help but wonder how this series could be so underrated while, frankly, there are so many books that are so overrated and overhyped!
I'm really grateful for that random video that I came across on Pinterest just to be introduced to this wonderful writer.
Now, if someone is wondering if I'm okay, the answer is no, I'm not okay at all.👌
That was a roller-coaster experience. I
I was on Alejandro's team in the first book, and despite all the attempts in this book to make me side with Parker, especially since he is the character I relate to the most, I still support Alejandro's team strongly. I'm sorry, but Parker dear, that's definitely not how we deal with our trauma and feelings and I totally understand his situation but living a shity life doesn't mean you have the right to go and fuck everybody else's life not caring or thinking for a minute about the consequences for what you are doing. I won't deny that he almost got me when he said “Stay with me… pick me. Let me be yours,”
I know how it feels Parker but I believe that " only know you love her when you let her go" it's hard but if you truly love someone you wouldn't like to throw a bomb on them and say "deal with it ." On the contrary, you will be happy because she is happy, especially since you had your moment and opportunity and wasted it of your own free will, and honestly, he just made me feel like he was acting out of jealousy all the time, and the whole thing about being with girls and imagining they were Gemma is disgusting, honestly they deserve better, including Gemma. I don't know, but for me, Parker is a walking red flag.
And like my big boy said “You had your chance with her, and now it’s over.”
And speaking of better may I introduce my big boy Mr. Alejandro Marquez? I just can't feel anything but sorry for him to find out about what happened in a terrible way after he opened up to Gemma and did his best just for her sake. But I think I will only live to know what he will do to fulfill his promise:
“We’ll never be done,” he asserted with tears in his eyes. “And I swear there will be a day that I kiss you again, that I’ll come back for what’s mine. These three months are for you… they are borrowed, not stolen. And when I come back, it’s to make this right.”
As for Gemma, I am really proud of her and the achievement she has achieved, and how she is now trying to truly know herself and always stand for herself. And I guess this book ended with me on Gemma's team so I trust her and hope she will choose the best thing for herself - but It won't hurt if it will be Alejandro though👩🦯👩🦯- which makes me want to mention how well Vivian developed the characters. The developments are noticeable, and I am really looking forward to the third part of the trilogy very much.🥰✨️
March 20, 2023
ℍ𝕚𝕘𝕙 𝕍𝕠𝕝𝕥𝕒𝕘𝕖, 𝔸𝕟𝕘𝕤𝕥𝕪 𝕠𝕟 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕖 ❤️🔼
💕🅱🅾🅾🅺 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴 💕
𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙧. 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙, 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙. 𝘼 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙧, 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙡𝙚𝙟𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙤…
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅻🅾🅾🅺 🅵🅾🆁🆆🅰🆁🅳 🆃🅾: 😍
✔️ A freaking Hot Love Triangle
✔️ Book 2 in the series so make sure to read the Sensational must read book 1
✔️ On one hand is the, Hot Celebrity Star, Alejandro aka Alex Rivers (and my love 💋)
✔️On the other hand, is Childhood Best friend and hottie lawyer, Parker
✔️ Angsty and Wild and Topsy Turvy Emotional Ride
✔️ Filthy and Dirty and 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸 times with my favourite 🥵🔥🌶️
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN. OH MY FREAKING GOODNESS DID ALEJANDRO, GEMMA & PARKER PUT ME THROUGH THE WRINGER.
AND NOW I'M ALL OVER THE PLACE, TRYING TO GET MYSELF BACK.
Going into this, I knew after book 1 we were going to delve deeper into the Parker & Gemma angle along with Alejandro and Gemma.
But never did I expect the High Voltage Drama and so many high flying emotions that'll take me on a Tumultuous ride that I couldn't get enough of.
Alejandro is the dream, Gemma could ever want but there are secrets and things that Alejandro seems to be hiding and Gemma not knowing whom to trust or what to believe is left in a predicament of listening to her heart or her best friend's accusations about her Alejandro.
That one scene were Parker and Alejandro face off, oh my.. I was like 😳😲, waiting with bated breath to see what would happen next and sure enough these two gave me drama times ten with their over the top possessiveness and fighting over Gemma.
Alejandro😍💋, I love that freaking Hottest specimen of a man so much so that I'd push Gemma aside to take her place besides Alejandro and make him all mine.
But that man made my head spin like crazy and I really felt all the conflict the way Gemma was feeling for how Alejandro was one minute Sweet and the next COMPLICATED WITH A CAPITAL C.
“𝙃𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙖 𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚… 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡.”
While there is Parker, who I reluctantly have to say does care about Gemma a lot but I want to slap that man for confusing poor Gemma just like Alejandro, being fair competition for being Complicated.
𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙂𝙚𝙢𝙢𝙖. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙙𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙨. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜.”
I was sometimes so pissed off at Gemma like Girl.. WHAT THE F ARE YOU DOING?
But then I started to understand where that girl was coming from.
To say it is the toughest choice to make for her would be the least.
Also, Oh my but I never expected for this book to have such filthy and on fire naughty times that had me fanning myself and melting me in the same breath with all its heat.
Alejandro, IS DROOLWORTHY, 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸INESS OVERLOADED. 🔥🌶️🔥🔥🌶️🥵🥵💋💋
To say I went through a freaking Delicious ride but with so much emotional play and making me go through so much conflict and craziness along with them all would be least.
I have to say though, I couldn't stop turning the pages as after a long time, I've read such an Electrifying, Emotionally charged and 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸 love Traingle that had all the spicy flavours perfectly balanced leaving me wanting more and more.
BUT THAT ENDING. OH MY... MS. MAE.. WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO ME. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO THINK AND WHAT WILL HAPPEN.
AHH... HOW WILL I EVER SURVIVE TILL THE NEXT BOOK, I HAVE NO IDEA.
WHAT A FREAKING 🔥 RIDE. LOVED LOVED THIS ONE. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❣️🅵🅰🆅🅾🆁🅸🆃🅴🔥🌶️ 🆂🅲🅴🅽🅴 ❣️
𝙖𝙨 𝙄 𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙥.
𝙄 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙥 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧.
💕🅱🅾🅾🅺 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴 💕
𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙧. 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙, 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙. 𝘼 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙧, 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙡𝙚𝙟𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙤…
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅻🅾🅾🅺 🅵🅾🆁🆆🅰🆁🅳 🆃🅾: 😍
✔️ A freaking Hot Love Triangle
✔️ Book 2 in the series so make sure to read the Sensational must read book 1
✔️ On one hand is the, Hot Celebrity Star, Alejandro aka Alex Rivers (and my love 💋)
✔️On the other hand, is Childhood Best friend and hottie lawyer, Parker
✔️ Angsty and Wild and Topsy Turvy Emotional Ride
✔️ Filthy and Dirty and 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸 times with my favourite 🥵🔥🌶️
🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN. OH MY FREAKING GOODNESS DID ALEJANDRO, GEMMA & PARKER PUT ME THROUGH THE WRINGER.
AND NOW I'M ALL OVER THE PLACE, TRYING TO GET MYSELF BACK.
Going into this, I knew after book 1 we were going to delve deeper into the Parker & Gemma angle along with Alejandro and Gemma.
But never did I expect the High Voltage Drama and so many high flying emotions that'll take me on a Tumultuous ride that I couldn't get enough of.
Alejandro is the dream, Gemma could ever want but there are secrets and things that Alejandro seems to be hiding and Gemma not knowing whom to trust or what to believe is left in a predicament of listening to her heart or her best friend's accusations about her Alejandro.
That one scene were Parker and Alejandro face off, oh my.. I was like 😳😲, waiting with bated breath to see what would happen next and sure enough these two gave me drama times ten with their over the top possessiveness and fighting over Gemma.
Alejandro😍💋, I love that freaking Hottest specimen of a man so much so that I'd push Gemma aside to take her place besides Alejandro and make him all mine.
But that man made my head spin like crazy and I really felt all the conflict the way Gemma was feeling for how Alejandro was one minute Sweet and the next COMPLICATED WITH A CAPITAL C.
“𝙃𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙖 𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚… 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡.”
While there is Parker, who I reluctantly have to say does care about Gemma a lot but I want to slap that man for confusing poor Gemma just like Alejandro, being fair competition for being Complicated.
𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙂𝙚𝙢𝙢𝙖. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙙𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙨. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜.”
I was sometimes so pissed off at Gemma like Girl.. WHAT THE F ARE YOU DOING?
But then I started to understand where that girl was coming from.
To say it is the toughest choice to make for her would be the least.
Also, Oh my but I never expected for this book to have such filthy and on fire naughty times that had me fanning myself and melting me in the same breath with all its heat.
Alejandro, IS DROOLWORTHY, 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸INESS OVERLOADED. 🔥🌶️🔥🔥🌶️🥵🥵💋💋
To say I went through a freaking Delicious ride but with so much emotional play and making me go through so much conflict and craziness along with them all would be least.
I have to say though, I couldn't stop turning the pages as after a long time, I've read such an Electrifying, Emotionally charged and 𝖲𝖤𝖷𝖸 love Traingle that had all the spicy flavours perfectly balanced leaving me wanting more and more.
BUT THAT ENDING. OH MY... MS. MAE.. WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO ME. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO THINK AND WHAT WILL HAPPEN.
AHH... HOW WILL I EVER SURVIVE TILL THE NEXT BOOK, I HAVE NO IDEA.
WHAT A FREAKING 🔥 RIDE. LOVED LOVED THIS ONE. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❣️🅵🅰🆅🅾🆁🅸🆃🅴🔥🌶️ 🆂🅲🅴🅽🅴 ❣️
𝙖𝙨 𝙄 𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙥.
𝙄 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙥 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧.
September 3, 2025
If you are 18+ and enjoyed The Summer I Turned Pretty then this SPICY love triangle series is for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t even know where to begin. I don’t even know whose team I’m on at this point. This book sent me on such an emotional rollercoaster in a good way! I devoured this book (and totally blew up Vivian’s DMs 😂)
Book two of the Mine To Keep series was phenomenal! Oh my! It was spicy and so good!
I love me a good love triangle and this one takes the cake for so many reasons. If you are a love triangle girly please read this series! She is working on Book 3 and I can’t wait!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t even know where to begin. I don’t even know whose team I’m on at this point. This book sent me on such an emotional rollercoaster in a good way! I devoured this book (and totally blew up Vivian’s DMs 😂)
Book two of the Mine To Keep series was phenomenal! Oh my! It was spicy and so good!
I love me a good love triangle and this one takes the cake for so many reasons. If you are a love triangle girly please read this series! She is working on Book 3 and I can’t wait!!
March 23, 2023
When I received the ARC of this I literally dropped everything and started reading, and it did not disappoint. We get 3 Povs in this book and Vivian did not hold out on us, the spice, the banter, the swoon worthy moments! The prologue had me screaming. I am such a sucker for a friend's to lovers, so Parker obviously has my heart. But Alejandro has his moments for sure that made me question everything. Both fierce protectors, both wanting Gemma to be theirs.. but who will she choose? The sexy bad boy who's older, mysterious and brings out a new side of her? Or the long time best friend, who she's loved her whole life, who knows everything about her and has protected her from the start? ugh!!! 😩💕
I cant wait to read book 3.
I cant wait to read book 3.
March 24, 2023
Gemma was ready to dive into her relationship with Alejandro, but the price of their relationship felt too high. She wanted to ignore everyone’s secrets and warnings. Parker wasn’t ready to let her go. He wanted her safe and wouldn’t let a man like Alex ruin Gemma’s life.
When secrets reveal themselves, and promises break, it’ll be up to Gemma to make a choice.
This book continues the story of the love triangle between a fashion designer, an actor and a childhood best friend who’s now a determined lawyer. With so much trauma in their pasts that threaten their future and more enemies gained than friends. Promise and Punishment will leave you conflicted, torn and hoping for answers.
In the first book I was leaning towards team Alejandro but now I feel like I’m more towards team Parker. Every time Gemma tries to explain her relationship with Alex to him, I can feel his pain, and it breaks my heart.
Alejandro wanted to push her out of her comfort zone. He wanted her to face her fears. In some way, it felt like he was changing her to fit the role he envisioned her in. However, in another way, it felt like he brought out a different side of her.
Parker wanted her as she was. He was a man who never broke a promise and that one thing burned and hurt him more than it did him any good. Because when it came to the most cherished thing he wanted, he had to break a promise for a chance.
This is the first time I’m actually torn about which team I should pick because I like both of them. But somehow seeing them both fight over Gemma makes me wish she would take time away from them.
I’m conflicted. This book gives you one hell of a love triangle. Alejandro is thrilling and Parker is comforting and familiar. He kept his feelings hidden, but now he’s done keeping them all to himself. The opposite of Alejandro, who is bold and brash. He doesn’t shy away from anything except telling the truth. Gemma won’t let him run, hiding behind his Alex Rivers persona.
I went through so many emotions reading this book. The way both love interests are so different yet similar makes this a fascinating read. I can’t wait for what happens next.
May 30, 2024
Okay - about halfway through the book I was cringing so hard at all things Alejandro. I was OVER it. Alejandro is a no for me.
I'm holding out for a HEA with Parker & Gemma and crossing my fingers that we get it. *Please!*
I laughed, I cringed, I rolled my eyes, but it was fun.
What to know:
Spice: Promise & Punishment has a lot of spice, and in one part of the book lots of it back-to-back. If you're looking for spicy, you might find what you're looking for in the first 50% of this one. The 2nd 50% seemed more story focused and that's where I really dug in.
Alpha Male: Actually we get this from both Parker & from Alejandro. Both of them are very "touch her and I'll kill you" type vibes. Except, I was all "heart eyes" when Parker did it, and a little more "ugh stop" when Alejandro did it. Just me? idk, probably lol. (Randome note: I liked Alejandro in the beginning. I mean... he's mysterious, brooding, wears a leather jacket and has dark hair and tattoos... sounds good to me! But then... I guess it was probably the constant "good girl" thing which is ick for me. I didn't dig his sexy time dialogue in general but definitely not a fan of the "Call Me Papi" or "Daddy" kink - Hard Pass! I'll see myself out! Not to mention he's slightly unhinged. lol)
Cheating I wouldn't really call it that personally, so I'd say no.
Cliffhanger YEP! So don't be surprised.
For me personally, as I mentioned above, I could have passed on all the spicy stuff between Alejandro & Gemma and still been just fine with the rest of the book. The love triangle aspect is good for me, the dueling men for her attention is good for me, the rest of the story from Alejandro's legal trouble, to Gemma's relationship with Parker's family, to Camilla's involvement - gimme all that.
From what I understand, book 3 is in editing stage, so hopefully it won't be long before we get to see that one - because I'm ready for it. lol
I'm holding out for a HEA with Parker & Gemma and crossing my fingers that we get it. *Please!*
I laughed, I cringed, I rolled my eyes, but it was fun.
What to know:
Spice: Promise & Punishment has a lot of spice, and in one part of the book lots of it back-to-back. If you're looking for spicy, you might find what you're looking for in the first 50% of this one. The 2nd 50% seemed more story focused and that's where I really dug in.
Alpha Male: Actually we get this from both Parker & from Alejandro. Both of them are very "touch her and I'll kill you" type vibes. Except, I was all "heart eyes" when Parker did it, and a little more "ugh stop" when Alejandro did it. Just me? idk, probably lol. (Randome note: I liked Alejandro in the beginning. I mean... he's mysterious, brooding, wears a leather jacket and has dark hair and tattoos... sounds good to me! But then... I guess it was probably the constant "good girl" thing which is ick for me. I didn't dig his sexy time dialogue in general but definitely not a fan of the "Call Me Papi" or "Daddy" kink - Hard Pass! I'll see myself out! Not to mention he's slightly unhinged. lol)
Cheating I wouldn't really call it that personally, so I'd say no.
Cliffhanger YEP! So don't be surprised.
For me personally, as I mentioned above, I could have passed on all the spicy stuff between Alejandro & Gemma and still been just fine with the rest of the book. The love triangle aspect is good for me, the dueling men for her attention is good for me, the rest of the story from Alejandro's legal trouble, to Gemma's relationship with Parker's family, to Camilla's involvement - gimme all that.
From what I understand, book 3 is in editing stage, so hopefully it won't be long before we get to see that one - because I'm ready for it. lol
March 25, 2023
ARC Review
"I knew now I was capable of being more, of being someone just like her— patient, kind, worthy of love. If she could see that in herself, then maybe she could see it in me too, making me less scared to open up, to show her who I was and who she was meant to be."
Before reading the second book of this series, I had to do a quick reread of the first one, because I knew that I would be a bit lost.
The main trope of this series is the love triangle between Gemma, Parker and Alejandro. I'm glad to say that I did not switch teams this time (not even once!) and I'm still 100% team Parker. The reread that I did made me appreciate his character development even more. I'm not saying he's perfect but he's changing. I hope that Gemma will end up with him.
However, I was a bit disappointed by Alejandro. I have mixed feelings regarding his relationship with Gemma. I feel like he hides too many things. If he communicated and opened up more to Gemma, a lot of trouble could be avoided.
I was so proud of Gemma for standing up for herself, especially after what she went through. She deserves much more than what she thinks.
Overall this second book was filled with more suspense and drama than the first. The beginning was a bit slow, but I really flew through the rest. The cliffhanger is not as shocking as in the first book, but I still cannot wait to see how this series will end.
“I’m actually relaxed for once.” I admitted, not just being away from the city or the case, but because of now, finally getting to be alone with Gemma, my one true love. I wanted to know she felt the same.
"I knew now I was capable of being more, of being someone just like her— patient, kind, worthy of love. If she could see that in herself, then maybe she could see it in me too, making me less scared to open up, to show her who I was and who she was meant to be."
Before reading the second book of this series, I had to do a quick reread of the first one, because I knew that I would be a bit lost.
The main trope of this series is the love triangle between Gemma, Parker and Alejandro. I'm glad to say that I did not switch teams this time (not even once!) and I'm still 100% team Parker. The reread that I did made me appreciate his character development even more. I'm not saying he's perfect but he's changing. I hope that Gemma will end up with him.
However, I was a bit disappointed by Alejandro. I have mixed feelings regarding his relationship with Gemma. I feel like he hides too many things. If he communicated and opened up more to Gemma, a lot of trouble could be avoided.
I was so proud of Gemma for standing up for herself, especially after what she went through. She deserves much more than what she thinks.
Overall this second book was filled with more suspense and drama than the first. The beginning was a bit slow, but I really flew through the rest. The cliffhanger is not as shocking as in the first book, but I still cannot wait to see how this series will end.
“I’m actually relaxed for once.” I admitted, not just being away from the city or the case, but because of now, finally getting to be alone with Gemma, my one true love. I wanted to know she felt the same.
March 29, 2023
I received a free ARC copy in return for my honest review! Thank you so much!
I have been DYING for this sequel ever since I finished its predecessor, Lawsuit and Leather.
This kept me on my toes from start to finish. I went in with no expectations. But, JESUS CHRIST ON A CRACKER this book is spicy and juicy, and holy moly guacamole leaves you at the end going WTF. So many twists and curves, but I loved it all! Now I’m dying for the next one!
And let me just say, I think between these two books combined I have switched teams more often than a girl changes clothes!
I started the previous book on Parker's team and ended on Alejandro’s. I was in love with Alejandro, the bad boy actor that sweeps Gemma off her feet, while finding her best friend and roommate, Parker to be annoying and frustrating. Now with book two, I ended the opposite! I started on Alejandro’s team and ended on Parker’s! And there were definitely a lot of moments I went well… maybe she should end with… My GAWD! This threw me through a loop. I just could not make up my mind during the book.
I really wanted to stay on Team Alejandro. I truly did, but at the end Alejandro pulled some moves that made me uncomfortable. And I love how Gemma handled the situation, she is my idol! I wanna be Gemma when I grow up.
Both of our love interests have things going on for both of them. And both have also made very poor choices in regards to Gemma. But looking at everything, at the end of it all, I am now fully committed to Parker. I am 100% Team PARKER! (Watch the next book change my mind at least another 10+ times)
I think if you enjoy slow burn romances with love triangles and don’t mind age-gaps, PLEASE consider picking this one up! It’s amazing!
I have been DYING for this sequel ever since I finished its predecessor, Lawsuit and Leather.
This kept me on my toes from start to finish. I went in with no expectations. But, JESUS CHRIST ON A CRACKER this book is spicy and juicy, and holy moly guacamole leaves you at the end going WTF. So many twists and curves, but I loved it all! Now I’m dying for the next one!
And let me just say, I think between these two books combined I have switched teams more often than a girl changes clothes!
I started the previous book on Parker's team and ended on Alejandro’s. I was in love with Alejandro, the bad boy actor that sweeps Gemma off her feet, while finding her best friend and roommate, Parker to be annoying and frustrating. Now with book two, I ended the opposite! I started on Alejandro’s team and ended on Parker’s! And there were definitely a lot of moments I went well… maybe she should end with… My GAWD! This threw me through a loop. I just could not make up my mind during the book.
I really wanted to stay on Team Alejandro. I truly did, but at the end Alejandro pulled some moves that made me uncomfortable. And I love how Gemma handled the situation, she is my idol! I wanna be Gemma when I grow up.
Both of our love interests have things going on for both of them. And both have also made very poor choices in regards to Gemma. But looking at everything, at the end of it all, I am now fully committed to Parker. I am 100% Team PARKER! (Watch the next book change my mind at least another 10+ times)
I think if you enjoy slow burn romances with love triangles and don’t mind age-gaps, PLEASE consider picking this one up! It’s amazing!
March 14, 2023
I NEED BOOK 3!!!
If you havent already read Lawsuit & Leather, stop reading this and head over to get book 1 of the Mine to keep series!
This book just makes me want to crumble.. I honestly don’t know who i want Gemma to end up with!
The revelations in this book about why Parker is the way he is, just hits me right in the heart and makes me want to forgive him but then there is Alejandro who … oh god papi… is a dark and sexy and knows Gemmas potential.
I honestly need to have a lie down after reading this, Vivian you have done it again.. you honestly are so talented and i hope you don’t make me wait to long for book 3 because i need to devour it! Either way its going to break my heart because i love them both❤️
If you havent already read Lawsuit & Leather, stop reading this and head over to get book 1 of the Mine to keep series!
This book just makes me want to crumble.. I honestly don’t know who i want Gemma to end up with!
The revelations in this book about why Parker is the way he is, just hits me right in the heart and makes me want to forgive him but then there is Alejandro who … oh god papi… is a dark and sexy and knows Gemmas potential.
I honestly need to have a lie down after reading this, Vivian you have done it again.. you honestly are so talented and i hope you don’t make me wait to long for book 3 because i need to devour it! Either way its going to break my heart because i love them both❤️
July 27, 2024
Omgggggg the crazy good whirlwind this was! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK RIGHT NOW!!! I honestly don’t even know where to begin, the first book was such a great lead up into this one. I really appreciated the length of this book because I kept wanting more!!!! The angst, the tension, the spice, the plot….. very well done!!! Alejandro is spicy but I’m still team Parker! I can’t get over how well developed the characters were like i never got lost. The emotional roller coaster this took me on is a ride I’m willing to stay on!!! Just read the series it’s so good! Ughhhhhh I’m dying for the next book! She must turn into a butterfly!!!!!
March 18, 2023
After being on Alejandro’s team at the end of Lawsuit and Leather, I now can say I’m on Team Parker!
While the chemistry is still unmatched for Gemma and Alejandro, Parker finally manned up!! The childhood best friend now has a shot?
It all comes down to actions and the truth for Book Three! The pros and cons WILL be weighed. Who will win? Alejandro - the older boss with a background similar to Gemma’s? Parker - the friend who’s always been there and now can speak his mind? Only time will tell!
While the chemistry is still unmatched for Gemma and Alejandro, Parker finally manned up!! The childhood best friend now has a shot?
It all comes down to actions and the truth for Book Three! The pros and cons WILL be weighed. Who will win? Alejandro - the older boss with a background similar to Gemma’s? Parker - the friend who’s always been there and now can speak his mind? Only time will tell!
March 22, 2023
Holy smokes!
If you haven’t read Lawsuit & Leather — what are you doing here? Jk! But really, you gotta read that before Promise & Punishment.
If you thought Alejandro was smoking before… well he def kicks it up a lot of notches in this one. Obsessive? possessive? but completely absolute in his feelings for Gemma, who’s finally starting to figure out who she is and who she’s been hiding from her whole life….
And as for Parker - it’s nice to see he’s finally being accountable for his misguided decisions.
How is a girl supposed to decide who is best for her and who she loves… no spoilers here but Gemma is being torn between feelings, doubts, insecurities and these two men who love her fiercely… but def hot & so good…. I need more already!!
If you haven’t read Lawsuit & Leather — what are you doing here? Jk! But really, you gotta read that before Promise & Punishment.
If you thought Alejandro was smoking before… well he def kicks it up a lot of notches in this one. Obsessive? possessive? but completely absolute in his feelings for Gemma, who’s finally starting to figure out who she is and who she’s been hiding from her whole life….
And as for Parker - it’s nice to see he’s finally being accountable for his misguided decisions.
How is a girl supposed to decide who is best for her and who she loves… no spoilers here but Gemma is being torn between feelings, doubts, insecurities and these two men who love her fiercely… but def hot & so good…. I need more already!!
March 25, 2023
When I finished Lawsuit and Leather I could not decide if I was Team Parker or Team Alejandro and after reading Promise and Punishment I’m in the same position. This book was a freaking rollercoaster and I was on the edge of my seat to see how things would play out.
The angst, suspense, and slow burn that was this book had me in a chokehold. I could not rest until I had finished this book and I’m waiting for book 3 with bated breaths to see how Gemma, Parker and Alejandro’s story will end.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The angst, suspense, and slow burn that was this book had me in a chokehold. I could not rest until I had finished this book and I’m waiting for book 3 with bated breaths to see how Gemma, Parker and Alejandro’s story will end.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 25, 2023
OH MY GOD????
This book is just THE PERFECT continuation of Lawsuit and Leather. The plot twists, the spice, the character development? CHEF’S KISS.
Alejandro (or Alex) is just an AMAZING character, because he’s not the ideal book boyfriend, instead, he’s beautifully flawed, as well as Parker is.
And Gemma? I loved reading about her character development, how she comes out of her shell
This book is a 10/10
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book is just THE PERFECT continuation of Lawsuit and Leather. The plot twists, the spice, the character development? CHEF’S KISS.
Alejandro (or Alex) is just an AMAZING character, because he’s not the ideal book boyfriend, instead, he’s beautifully flawed, as well as Parker is.
And Gemma? I loved reading about her character development, how she comes out of her shell
This book is a 10/10
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
September 16, 2025
Vivian Mae does it again! I feel in love with this book and have complex feelings about both of the MMC. I have a love hate relationship with them and am excited to see how those develop in her next book!
May 7, 2023
My mind is telling me Parker. But Alex still has my heart! Ugh 😣
February 2, 2024
Stayed up all night reading this. I couldn’t put it down! So anxious for book 3!!
February 17, 2024
Can’t wait for the third book! The suspense is killing me.
July 5, 2025
Absolutely incredible
Every emotion possible! It was amazing! I felt upset happy angry this was an amazing book!! can't wait for the third one to hit next !!!
Every emotion possible! It was amazing! I felt upset happy angry this was an amazing book!! can't wait for the third one to hit next !!!
March 23, 2023
I want to start off my review with saying that in book 1 Lawsuit & Leather, I was Team Alex. Enter book 2….I am being pulled to Team Parker! Let me tell you why…
Alejandro is the man I would normally go for as a book boyfriend, he’s the broken, older man, with a damaged soul and a bad boy persona. He wants Gemma and will stop at nothing to have her.
Parker… biggest heart, will stop at nothing to protect Gemma, even from himself. He’s holding back from loving her, that it’s destroying him. He’s made some wrong choices and now is trying to deal with that but he is always her constant. Buuuut I am picking up in some hidden darkness in him and I’m here for it!
There is all the drama and some SPICY scenes! Listen, just the bathroom scene alone is why you should be reading this book!
Book ends with a juicy cliffy and I can NOT wait to find out what team Gemma finally chooses!
5/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
Alejandro is the man I would normally go for as a book boyfriend, he’s the broken, older man, with a damaged soul and a bad boy persona. He wants Gemma and will stop at nothing to have her.
Parker… biggest heart, will stop at nothing to protect Gemma, even from himself. He’s holding back from loving her, that it’s destroying him. He’s made some wrong choices and now is trying to deal with that but he is always her constant. Buuuut I am picking up in some hidden darkness in him and I’m here for it!
There is all the drama and some SPICY scenes! Listen, just the bathroom scene alone is why you should be reading this book!
Book ends with a juicy cliffy and I can NOT wait to find out what team Gemma finally chooses!
5/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
March 27, 2023
Team Parker! Book 1 was one of my favorite books of 2022 so I couldn't wait to get my hands on the sequel! The author does such an amazing job making me feel all the things. I'm not sure if Parker is the end goal for this trilogy but oh my he has my heart! I know Alejandro is hot and sexy but I found myself waiting for more Parker scenes. Alejandro almost seems like his life is too complicated and it was a bit distracting when Gemma was with him as opposed to Parker who has the history and the love for her without all the complications. I am also rooting for her in book 3 to really take off with her job! This was a good book to tie us over until book 3 - the conclusion! I'm so excited to see what happens. 4.5 rounded up.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
March 20, 2023
*ARC Review*
Absolutely amazing once again!! I am not normally into the love triangle trope, but the way Vivian writes this story makes me forget I don’t like it. I cannot wait for the next book 😩
Absolutely amazing once again!! I am not normally into the love triangle trope, but the way Vivian writes this story makes me forget I don’t like it. I cannot wait for the next book 😩
April 13, 2023
Oh how much do I love this series - book 2. I’m dying just dying for book 3. This has had me on the edge of my seat the whole way. Talk about slow burn!
March 22, 2023
First things first, I was given an arc for this book. Honestly, I’m so glad to have been given an arc. I devoured this book in hours. It was so good, and I couldn’t put it down. Before reading, I was team Alex now in more of a team Gemma. This book was just downright enthralling, and the end leaves me with so much of a need to read the last book. Great job, author; I can’t wait for book three.
September 20, 2024
I ate this book up.
Finished it in 2 days, reading nonstop..
If Lawsuit and Leather was good, this was awesome..
‼️THIS IS NOT A STANDALONE AND HAS TO BE READ IN ORDER‼️
Now lets recollect,
Gemma : My baby girl, she is so so sweet. I cant help but empathize with Gemma. She is an innocent, timid FMC but in no way is she stupid. Unlike some other annoying FMCs, Gemma is just like her name, an absolute gem. I love her and I love how she is getting more and more confident. Can't wait to see more of her in book 3❤️
Alejandro : I really liked him in book one. And he definitely got hotter in this one but I just cant seem to like him anymore. I feel like his character is really manipulative.. But I could be wrong for we will get to know everything for precise in the coming books only.
Parker : He ate. Tbh, Parker might have made a hell lot of mistakes but I love him nontheless. And I really really hope Gemma ends up with him❤️
He has nothing but true love for Gemma in his heart. No secrets, nothing to hide. True, pure love. So if Parker doesnt get a happy ending I will be upset really.
And lastly,
Camilla : I just hope you rot in hell..
Thank you so much for the ARC❤️❤️
PLS PLS PLS GIVE ME BOOK 3 ALREADY!!
Finished it in 2 days, reading nonstop..
If Lawsuit and Leather was good, this was awesome..
‼️THIS IS NOT A STANDALONE AND HAS TO BE READ IN ORDER‼️
Now lets recollect,
Gemma : My baby girl, she is so so sweet. I cant help but empathize with Gemma. She is an innocent, timid FMC but in no way is she stupid. Unlike some other annoying FMCs, Gemma is just like her name, an absolute gem. I love her and I love how she is getting more and more confident. Can't wait to see more of her in book 3❤️
Alejandro : I really liked him in book one. And he definitely got hotter in this one but I just cant seem to like him anymore. I feel like his character is really manipulative.. But I could be wrong for we will get to know everything for precise in the coming books only.
Parker : He ate. Tbh, Parker might have made a hell lot of mistakes but I love him nontheless. And I really really hope Gemma ends up with him❤️
He has nothing but true love for Gemma in his heart. No secrets, nothing to hide. True, pure love. So if Parker doesnt get a happy ending I will be upset really.
And lastly,
Camilla : I just hope you rot in hell..
Thank you so much for the ARC❤️❤️
PLS PLS PLS GIVE ME BOOK 3 ALREADY!!
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