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Brisbane Bachelors #1
The Book Shop Girl and The Billionaire
How far will one man go to avenge his last remaining family?
Luke Hardcastle is a man on a mission—no one hurts his little sister and gets away with it. Eighteen months ago Claire Morse helped her sadistic aunt destroy Luke’s sister, so it only seems fair she return the favour now and help him destroy her aunt. And if he has to hold the lease to her bookstore over her head to ensure her cooperation, then so be it. But the more time he spends with Claire, the harder it becomes to keep his head in the game and his heart under wraps. Torn between the two, can Luke get the girl and his revenge, or will he have to sacrifice one to keep the other?
How far will one woman go to protect her new found freedom?
Eighteen months ago, Claire Morse lost her job, her home and her self-respect all in one day. But the great thing about hitting rock bottom is you can only go up. Claire has worked hard to free herself from the horrors of her past and she'll do anything to protect her new life. Even submit to blackmail. And when being blackmailed means pretending to be the girlfriend of the tall, dark and wickedly handsome Luke Hardcastle—the man she’s loved from afar for years—she realises she's been given a chance at redemption, to fix the one mistake that haunts her still. But now she's had a taste of Luke up close and personal, how will her inexperienced heart survive when his thirst for vengeance is satisfied, and he no longer needs her?
*NB. This title was previously released in 2010 under my original author name. Significant changes have been made to the book for the 2018 edition.
Luke Hardcastle is a man on a mission—no one hurts his little sister and gets away with it. Eighteen months ago Claire Morse helped her sadistic aunt destroy Luke’s sister, so it only seems fair she return the favour now and help him destroy her aunt. And if he has to hold the lease to her bookstore over her head to ensure her cooperation, then so be it. But the more time he spends with Claire, the harder it becomes to keep his head in the game and his heart under wraps. Torn between the two, can Luke get the girl and his revenge, or will he have to sacrifice one to keep the other?
How far will one woman go to protect her new found freedom?
Eighteen months ago, Claire Morse lost her job, her home and her self-respect all in one day. But the great thing about hitting rock bottom is you can only go up. Claire has worked hard to free herself from the horrors of her past and she'll do anything to protect her new life. Even submit to blackmail. And when being blackmailed means pretending to be the girlfriend of the tall, dark and wickedly handsome Luke Hardcastle—the man she’s loved from afar for years—she realises she's been given a chance at redemption, to fix the one mistake that haunts her still. But now she's had a taste of Luke up close and personal, how will her inexperienced heart survive when his thirst for vengeance is satisfied, and he no longer needs her?
*NB. This title was previously released in 2010 under my original author name. Significant changes have been made to the book for the 2018 edition.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2022
593 people are currently reading
594 people want to read
About the author
Jennie Kew
33 books101 followersFiction with hea(r)t
Jennie Kew is an award winning author who writes contemporary Australian slice-of-life erotic romance novels, and contemporary and paranormal short erotic stories.
When not sitting in front of her computer, Jennie can be found reading a book, watching a movie or building Lego.
She lives in regional New South Wales with her husband, her husband’s magnificent beard, and their menagerie.
Enter the Kewniverse www.jenniekew.com
Buy books direct from the author www.payhip.com/TheKewniverse
Want something with a little more heat? Check out The Bennett’s Bastards Series.
www.jenniekew.com/bennetts-bastards
What something sexy yet sweet? Check out The Brisbane Bachelors Series.
www.jenniekew.com/brisbane-bachelors
Want something short and not-so-sweet? Check out The Q Collection.
www.jenniekew.com/100-percent-smut
Stay up to date with book releases and special events by signing up for Jennie's monthly newsletter www.jenniekew.com/newsletter
Jennie Kew is an award winning author who writes contemporary Australian slice-of-life erotic romance novels, and contemporary and paranormal short erotic stories.
When not sitting in front of her computer, Jennie can be found reading a book, watching a movie or building Lego.
She lives in regional New South Wales with her husband, her husband’s magnificent beard, and their menagerie.
Enter the Kewniverse www.jenniekew.com
Buy books direct from the author www.payhip.com/TheKewniverse
Want something with a little more heat? Check out The Bennett’s Bastards Series.
www.jenniekew.com/bennetts-bastards
What something sexy yet sweet? Check out The Brisbane Bachelors Series.
www.jenniekew.com/brisbane-bachelors
Want something short and not-so-sweet? Check out The Q Collection.
www.jenniekew.com/100-percent-smut
Stay up to date with book releases and special events by signing up for Jennie's monthly newsletter www.jenniekew.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
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August 29, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/29/2020)! 🎁
July 31, 2021
Read it a 2nd time, always AMAZING.
November 9, 2022
4.5 stars. Claire, the female lead, owns and runs a book store and tea shop, having escaped from under her aunt’s abusive thumb. Luke, the male lead, assumed Claire agreed with her aunt’s practices and blackmails her into assisting him to acquire information to get revenge on her aunt for causing his sister’s business to fail so she could buy it for a low price.
But Claire and Luke met a decade ago and, for the 10 minutes he didn’t know who her aunt was, he was blindly in lust with and kind towards her. The attraction is still mutual…
This story is dual POV, well written, and an emotional engaging and fun read. I enjoyed Claire’s ethics and personal values framework. I appreciated that she had clear boundaries that she wouldn’t allow to be pushed by anyone. I was amused by Luke’s approach to his world. I found it interesting that he was avoiding his attraction with so much effort that he hadn’t actually engaged with all the information he had for Claire. I enjoyed their relationship and character development and the intimate scenes. A great read. I also enjoyed the Australian setting and places that I could actually relate to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But Claire and Luke met a decade ago and, for the 10 minutes he didn’t know who her aunt was, he was blindly in lust with and kind towards her. The attraction is still mutual…
This story is dual POV, well written, and an emotional engaging and fun read. I enjoyed Claire’s ethics and personal values framework. I appreciated that she had clear boundaries that she wouldn’t allow to be pushed by anyone. I was amused by Luke’s approach to his world. I found it interesting that he was avoiding his attraction with so much effort that he hadn’t actually engaged with all the information he had for Claire. I enjoyed their relationship and character development and the intimate scenes. A great read. I also enjoyed the Australian setting and places that I could actually relate to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2020
Review posted on 21/09/2020
Absolutely love it!! Excellent focused writing with purposeful strides, never skipped a beat. Not one boring moment in sight. Great chemistry and wonderful banter that doesn't let you down. Such a memorable book!
Absolutely love it!! Excellent focused writing with purposeful strides, never skipped a beat. Not one boring moment in sight. Great chemistry and wonderful banter that doesn't let you down. Such a memorable book!
August 8, 2025
Don’t like when leads blackmails the other lead like him. He could be nice in one moment and in the next really cruel . He could also act like a child in some moments when he was a grown up man. He was an toxic man who should not be in a relationship with her.
The fml was also annoying. She forgets every cruel acts from him and just goes back to lusting and listen to everything he says.
The fml was also annoying. She forgets every cruel acts from him and just goes back to lusting and listen to everything he says.
September 21, 2018
I really enjoyed reading about Luke and Claire.
They start out as enemies but they can't really fight their feelings, so they get a little help in the right direction. When Claire first met Luke, she almost had him wearing coffee for the day. Luke was smitten with Claire unknown to her until she told him her name and then he became cold towards her. You'll see why when you read the story.
Jennie leads us through the lives of Claire Morse and Luke Hardcastle that are enemies in the work industry. Jennie you did a great job bringing Claire and Luke to life and their story is well told. You had me in tears when I was supposed to be and laughing at the right moments as well. The antics of this story are great and what one will do to seek revenge but find redemption instead was perfect.
They start out as enemies but they can't really fight their feelings, so they get a little help in the right direction. When Claire first met Luke, she almost had him wearing coffee for the day. Luke was smitten with Claire unknown to her until she told him her name and then he became cold towards her. You'll see why when you read the story.
Jennie leads us through the lives of Claire Morse and Luke Hardcastle that are enemies in the work industry. Jennie you did a great job bringing Claire and Luke to life and their story is well told. You had me in tears when I was supposed to be and laughing at the right moments as well. The antics of this story are great and what one will do to seek revenge but find redemption instead was perfect.
September 5, 2018
I loved this new book by Jennie it has a plot for revenge but maybe a redemption can be found also. The characters will pull on your heart strings and leave you breathless. It has scorching scenes that will have you fanning yourself. But to have revenge you need to sacrifice what you want most. Will big alpha male Luke be able to let Claire go when everything is over and will Claire be able to have the redemption she seeks the most and be able to keep the man she loves with all her heart. Pick up a copy you will love this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a reader copy from the author
I voluntarily reviewed a reader copy from the author
September 6, 2018
I absolutely loved everything Jennie has written (yes, I read everything) and this book is no exception. Marvellously written and full of Jennie’s unique and quirky sense of humor (that again I love), the book creates an interesting world inhabited by mostly awesome creatures. Please, Gods of Literature and Jennie, let there be a sequel, or 10... definitely one click worthy.
I received an ARC of the book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of the book and this is my honest review.
November 13, 2020
A fun & fantastic story!
Loved the story! Loved the twists & turns! Loved to feel the emotions as I read! Looking for more books by J. Kew!
Loved the story! Loved the twists & turns! Loved to feel the emotions as I read! Looking for more books by J. Kew!
December 8, 2020
Luke. And Claire
I loved how Luke wanted Claire because she reminded him of Jessica Rabbit
That was Avery cute little romance novel.
I loved how Luke wanted Claire because she reminded him of Jessica Rabbit
That was Avery cute little romance novel.
January 8, 2025
For the most part I really liked this book and would have rated it higher if not for a few things. For one, while the characters were mostly good, I did find Luke to be a bit toxic at times especially when he didn’t get his way. Yea, that’s to be expected with enemies to lovers, but I wouldn’t even really classify Luke and Claire as enemies seeing as they had both been infatuated with each other for 10+ years. Claire I found to be pretty good but she was quick to assume the worst at points - understandable given her past experiences. The one thing that really took it down was the revenge plot was supposed to be the whole point of the story yet the climax with that didn’t even happen until the last chapter and before that it was rarely mentioned which left it feeling rushed into the end. Then the miscommunication trope happens also in the last chapter but is again resolved far too fast. That whole part should have been in the middle of the story with the remaining chapters them making up/the fallout of Amanda/then the proposal. But other than that I liked having a plus size heroine and her and Luke were sweet together.
February 9, 2024
With every turn of the page, this book immerses you into a world of vengeance and redemption. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, their inner turmoil evident in their every action and word. Your heart will be pulled in different directions as you follow their journey, leaving you on the edge of your seat with bated breath. The intense scenes will make your cheeks flush and your heart race, while also delving deep into the characters' emotions. Can alpha male Luke bring himself to let go of Claire in his quest for revenge? And will Claire finally find the redemption she has been searching for, even if it means letting go of her true love? Prepare to be captivated by this heart-pounding romantic book that will keep you hooked until the very end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2020
luke is set on revenge, when he though Claire has wrong his sister, but its now quite all it seems Claire has always had her sights on luke but knew she was never in the running., but then she was blackmailed and things changed a lot. She had t pretend to be his girlfriend and feelings started to change for the better. Can this two come together and make it work or will the revenge is sweet be to bitter to swallow.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
Excellent from start to finish.
It's an excellent enemies-to-lovers romance, full of twists and turns from the start of manipulations, tense between Luke and Claire. Their relationship has no dead time either in their hatred or in their attraction and their story is addictive, thrilling from beginning to end between when he threatens her, until the last page.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
It's an excellent enemies-to-lovers romance, full of twists and turns from the start of manipulations, tense between Luke and Claire. Their relationship has no dead time either in their hatred or in their attraction and their story is addictive, thrilling from beginning to end between when he threatens her, until the last page.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
March 31, 2024
4⭐️The tension and this is crackling, the heat is intense a firing inferno. I loved the Aussie slang and the banter between the two, it really pays homage to the Australian nature of relationships and interactions. As an Aussie myself I loved it all!
This was a super sweet palette cleanser in between some of my darker reads this month. It was cute and captivating. Great intricate and well weaved plot. I loved it!
I did the audiobook and loved having an Aussie narrator! She absolutely nailed it! Highly recommend! Can’t wait to read more in this series!
This was a super sweet palette cleanser in between some of my darker reads this month. It was cute and captivating. Great intricate and well weaved plot. I loved it!
I did the audiobook and loved having an Aussie narrator! She absolutely nailed it! Highly recommend! Can’t wait to read more in this series!
March 20, 2020
This is a well written enemies to lovers romance with strong characters and an entertaining story line. The author does a great job building the story and pulls you in with all the drama and witty humor along the way.The chemistry between Claire and Luke is hot and the sex scenes steamy. Both the characters and scenes are described and painted in vivid detail and the story flows fluidly. I enjoyed and would recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 19, 2025
The Bookshop Girl and the Billionaire by Jennie Kew
A fun and engaging Aussie billionaire romance! I really enjoyed the chemistry and lighthearted tone of the story. The Aussie setting was a great touch, though I would have loved a few more references to the local places to really anchor the romance in its setting. Overall, an enjoyable, feel-good read. ★★★★☆
A fun and engaging Aussie billionaire romance! I really enjoyed the chemistry and lighthearted tone of the story. The Aussie setting was a great touch, though I would have loved a few more references to the local places to really anchor the romance in its setting. Overall, an enjoyable, feel-good read. ★★★★☆
February 16, 2020
Great Book...
by and1515
Wow this is the first book by Jennie Kew and holy moly I totally loved this book
filled with drama,blackmail and revenge.
I adore Luke and Claire so charming an spicy together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Wow this is the first book by Jennie Kew and holy moly I totally loved this book
filled with drama,blackmail and revenge.
I adore Luke and Claire so charming an spicy together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2020
Two likable characters have a lot to work out in this new to me authors book. It’s a great read and I loved every page of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
This is a super curvy girl/billionaire romance! I quite liked it! It’s funny and sexy, sassy and entertaining.. It has a lot of heartfelt scenes!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2022
This is a new author for me and I enjoyed reading this book. The characters and the storyline were great. I had a hard time putting it down.
I loved it. I cannot wait to read more and more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved it. I cannot wait to read more and more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2023
A really cute romcom! I was a little frustrated in the beginning about how things began for Claire and Luke but overall it was a lot of fun and super sexy! I very much appreciate curvy girls getting their day in the sun for romance books!
November 13, 2022
Great read , a lustful steamy romance with angst , blackmail and Tea with dangerous liaisons thrown in , great characters and descriptions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2022
I listened to an audiobook of this title and loved it! The story was great and the narration was stellar. New to me author so I’m excited to check out more books by them soon.
July 14, 2025
Cute, quick story
Characters are cute, but the wrap up was a little fast and I wanted more of a victory for our FMC. I really liked her feistiness and responses to the MMC.
Characters are cute, but the wrap up was a little fast and I wanted more of a victory for our FMC. I really liked her feistiness and responses to the MMC.
July 25, 2025
Luke is a billionaire and his powerful enemy Amanda Morse took his sister's success away from her when she revealed his sister had cancer. Meanwhile he seeks out Claire Morse whose Aunt Amanda ruined and tossed her out of the family. He sits in Claire's tearoom day after day staring at Claire. He chooses to date skinny blondes since he cannot date Claire due to her connection with Amanda. So he gets Claire to help them both get even with Amanda. But in the end he may lose Claire when she finds out he really likes her.
July 26, 2025
Joy!!!
First time reading this author work. Hooked feom page one.The story flowed just right. Characters kept me hooked and enjoyed how they acted with each other. Suppoerting cast was just as enjoyable . Will be buying rest of this series.
First time reading this author work. Hooked feom page one.The story flowed just right. Characters kept me hooked and enjoyed how they acted with each other. Suppoerting cast was just as enjoyable . Will be buying rest of this series.
October 25, 2023
Cute little escapist love story 😍
March 16, 2020
The all thing is a bit confusing. The revenge plot is just half cook therefore the all storyline is not really working in my opinion
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2022
The Book Shop Girl and The Billionaire just sucks you in and keeps a hold of you till the end. This book will have you on the edge of your seats. I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews