What do you think?
Rate this book
Sink or Sell
A Romantic Comedy
Margaret Rose makes her debut with a stylish Romantic Comedy. If you love The Devil Wears Prada and The Hating Game, this one is for you!
If you want it all, you’ve got to risk it all.
Holly Stewart loves everything about her job at Lorden’s department store— aside from one of the owner’s extremely annoying sons (yes, there are two, one delicious and one devil). The recent textile grad is trying to climb the company ladder to corporate, but fancy titles and sparkly sequins aren’t the only things on her mind.
She’s in love.
After a daring first kiss with George Lorden-the nice brother- at the office holiday party, Holly learns Seattle’s oldest retail dynasty is a sinking ship. All office staff, including Holly, are out of a job, and now George is being transferred to Hawaii. To make matters worse her least favorite human, the boy she’s played cat and mouse with since they were kids, Declan Lorden, begs her to stay and help keep his legacy afloat.
He literally begs. On his knees in the office hallway…
Flustered by the unusual show of emotion from the prickly brother and intrigued by his sworn promise never to speak, pester, or generally infuriate her again, Holly agrees in order to keep a paycheck. If only their growing attraction didn’t get tangled with their mutual need for success. Because everyone knows you can’t have it all… Right?
Sink Or Sell is a childhood enemies-to-lovers workplace romance featuring two brothers contending with their place in a retail dynasty, loads of laughs and family drama, and a smart, driven woman making her way in the world while falling in love.
Margaret Rose makes her debut with a stylish Romantic Comedy. If you love The Devil Wears Prada and The Hating Game, this one is for you!
If you want it all, you’ve got to risk it all.
Holly Stewart loves everything about her job at Lorden’s department store— aside from one of the owner’s extremely annoying sons (yes, there are two, one delicious and one devil). The recent textile grad is trying to climb the company ladder to corporate, but fancy titles and sparkly sequins aren’t the only things on her mind.
She’s in love.
After a daring first kiss with George Lorden-the nice brother- at the office holiday party, Holly learns Seattle’s oldest retail dynasty is a sinking ship. All office staff, including Holly, are out of a job, and now George is being transferred to Hawaii. To make matters worse her least favorite human, the boy she’s played cat and mouse with since they were kids, Declan Lorden, begs her to stay and help keep his legacy afloat.
He literally begs. On his knees in the office hallway…
Flustered by the unusual show of emotion from the prickly brother and intrigued by his sworn promise never to speak, pester, or generally infuriate her again, Holly agrees in order to keep a paycheck. If only their growing attraction didn’t get tangled with their mutual need for success. Because everyone knows you can’t have it all… Right?
Sink Or Sell is a childhood enemies-to-lovers workplace romance featuring two brothers contending with their place in a retail dynasty, loads of laughs and family drama, and a smart, driven woman making her way in the world while falling in love.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2023
6 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Rose
10 books68 followersMargaret Rose majored in English with an emphasis on creative writing, dabbled in philosophy, and has a concentration in theater. Before becoming an author, she worked as a personal stylist, secretly drafting novels and begging her friends to read them. Now, she enjoys wearing sweatpants just as much as sequins and watching her kids chase their dreams while she chases her own. You can find her online at Margaretrosebooks.Com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 3, 2023
I loved how this book made me feel while I was reading it. I was happy, giddy, and honestly could not wait to get back to it when I had to put it down. It's funny, it's sweet, and it's such a good book. I got the Devil Wears Prada and Sex and the City vibes from this book. So, if that's your thing, what are you waiting for? Omg, the elevator scene had me dying. So, basically Holly and Declan are trying to save Lorden's department store from closing. Holly thinks she is in love with Declan's brother George (oh girl just you wait), but he has to go save the store in Hawaii, leaving Holly alone with Declan. Guys, this book is so freaking amazing. Just trust me and go find out for yourself. *Chef's kiss*
March 16, 2023
Lordens is not just a Department store, it's an institution. And the Lorden family that run the show? In Seattle, they're like royalty. For Holly, whose Gran was a master seamstress at the flagship for 25 years, working her way up the ladder has been a dream.
Best friends with Lenny, the fabulous brother of the current CEO, and secretly in love with her Boss George, heir to the dynasty; the Lorden's family have accepted her with open arms... all except for Declan. They've warred since meeting as children and working together each day has only amplified this.
But when several unexpected changes to the flagship store leave them all floundering, something even more unexpected happens... Declan gets on bended knee to BEG for her help. Will Holly and Declan be able to put aside their contentious relationship to save their beloved store?
This was a brilliant enemies to lovers romance that had some heat, but ultimately was closed door. I really enjoyed the banter between the two MCs, and the wider relationships explored throughout the book. Lenny was a favourite character for me and I enjoyed that we got to witness his love story too.
The Author made Lordens come alive for me; I really felt like I could visualise every area described in such detail. The store became a character in itself and every event, both good and bad, made me become even more invested in not just the romance unfolding, but the whole wider story.
Thank you to Author Margaret Rose and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The book is available now and I'd highly recommend it!
Best friends with Lenny, the fabulous brother of the current CEO, and secretly in love with her Boss George, heir to the dynasty; the Lorden's family have accepted her with open arms... all except for Declan. They've warred since meeting as children and working together each day has only amplified this.
But when several unexpected changes to the flagship store leave them all floundering, something even more unexpected happens... Declan gets on bended knee to BEG for her help. Will Holly and Declan be able to put aside their contentious relationship to save their beloved store?
This was a brilliant enemies to lovers romance that had some heat, but ultimately was closed door. I really enjoyed the banter between the two MCs, and the wider relationships explored throughout the book. Lenny was a favourite character for me and I enjoyed that we got to witness his love story too.
The Author made Lordens come alive for me; I really felt like I could visualise every area described in such detail. The store became a character in itself and every event, both good and bad, made me become even more invested in not just the romance unfolding, but the whole wider story.
Thank you to Author Margaret Rose and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The book is available now and I'd highly recommend it!
February 10, 2023
★★★★.5/5
“I want to live this exact moment in time forever. Will you please make the clock stand still?” he begs.
Gimme romance, clothes and a stylist FMC and I'm IN!!!!
Haven't worked at retail but i have worked as both a stylist and seamstress and i could totally relate!!!
I adored this book. It was fast paced and i loved that blushing feeling of workplace romance/crushes and the reality of chasing your dreams!
A real plus is Sex and the city vibes, fashion wise 🤌🏻
The diversity in the supporting cast was incredible and they'll keep you as hooked as the main characters!
You're in for a treat in this slow burn romance of Declan and Holly!
As for the Tropes:
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Workplace Romance
• He Falls First
• Enemies To Lovers
Margaret's debut is a killer and i can't wait to read more!
Thank you Margaret for the ARC 🙏🏻
“I want to live this exact moment in time forever. Will you please make the clock stand still?” he begs.
Gimme romance, clothes and a stylist FMC and I'm IN!!!!
Haven't worked at retail but i have worked as both a stylist and seamstress and i could totally relate!!!
I adored this book. It was fast paced and i loved that blushing feeling of workplace romance/crushes and the reality of chasing your dreams!
A real plus is Sex and the city vibes, fashion wise 🤌🏻
The diversity in the supporting cast was incredible and they'll keep you as hooked as the main characters!
You're in for a treat in this slow burn romance of Declan and Holly!
As for the Tropes:
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Workplace Romance
• He Falls First
• Enemies To Lovers
Margaret's debut is a killer and i can't wait to read more!
Thank you Margaret for the ARC 🙏🏻
February 15, 2023
“I assure you, darling, the best decisions look like bad ones at first.”
Fast-paced and full of the giddy feeling of workplace crushes and chasing your dreams, this debut by Margaret Rose will knock your designer socks off. Perfect for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope with the added bonus of Sex and the City-esque fashion content. With a diverse supporting cast that you’ll love just as much as the main characters, this story will drag you in from the start and keep you itching to find out how Declan and Holly will FINALLY get together in the slowest (but most worth it) burn of your life. Not to mention how they’ll save the business they both love.
Thank you, Margaret, for the ARC of your book. I cannot wait to read everything else you ever write!
Fast-paced and full of the giddy feeling of workplace crushes and chasing your dreams, this debut by Margaret Rose will knock your designer socks off. Perfect for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope with the added bonus of Sex and the City-esque fashion content. With a diverse supporting cast that you’ll love just as much as the main characters, this story will drag you in from the start and keep you itching to find out how Declan and Holly will FINALLY get together in the slowest (but most worth it) burn of your life. Not to mention how they’ll save the business they both love.
Thank you, Margaret, for the ARC of your book. I cannot wait to read everything else you ever write!
July 29, 2023
I LOVED this sweet rom-com!
Such a fun and sweet story of workplace enemies to lovers. I fell in love with the main characters, as well as the diverse supporting cast! This book is meant to be a movie and I am here for it!!
Grumpy x Sunshine
Childhood enemies
Workplace romance
Witty banter
Such a fun and sweet story of workplace enemies to lovers. I fell in love with the main characters, as well as the diverse supporting cast! This book is meant to be a movie and I am here for it!!
Grumpy x Sunshine
Childhood enemies
Workplace romance
Witty banter
February 23, 2023
Sink or Sell by Margaret Rose 👗
Holly loves everything about her job at the Lorden department store, aside from one of the owner's annoying sons. She's trying to climb the company ladder to reach corporate but she's distracted. She's in love with George Lorden, the not-annoying son. After a daring first kiss with him at the holiday party, she learns that the company is a sinking ship and is now out of a job. In comes Declan Lorden, begging on his knees for her to stay and help him run the store. Flustered by the show of emotion and promise to never speak to her again after he helps her, she agrees.
This was a fun read, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. It's a fantastic debut and extremely well written, I just didn't care much for any of the characters which lead me to struggle a little bit with wanting to root for Holly and Declan.
There are some fantastic tropes in this book - childhood enemies to lovers, grumpy / sunshine, workplace romance, and a little forced proximity.
I'm not a fan of love triangles and so when the book started out with Holly being in love with the other brother and pretty much obsessing over him, I was like ehhh. I like my romances to be fully about the main couple of the book rather than a bit where one of the main characters are interested in someone else. It was clear early on that Declan was head over heels for Holly, but she was too caught up in George or something else to see it which was a little frustrating.
I desperately wish this was dual POV! I needed more insight into Declan's mind since I felt like I knew so little about him and how he felt. I wanted more scenes of them together, getting to know each other and realizing they aren't so much of enemies as they thought they were. What we got was super sweet though and they had fun banter.
Overall, I felt like some things were missing to make this a 4 or more star read for me. The beginning was slow and then once we get the good part it was over too quickly. I hope this didn't come off as too critical or that I didn't like the book because I did. I'll be sure to read more of Margaret in the future!
single POV
3/5 stars ⭐️
1.5/5 spice level 🌶️
Thank you Margaret for the eARC!
Holly loves everything about her job at the Lorden department store, aside from one of the owner's annoying sons. She's trying to climb the company ladder to reach corporate but she's distracted. She's in love with George Lorden, the not-annoying son. After a daring first kiss with him at the holiday party, she learns that the company is a sinking ship and is now out of a job. In comes Declan Lorden, begging on his knees for her to stay and help him run the store. Flustered by the show of emotion and promise to never speak to her again after he helps her, she agrees.
This was a fun read, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. It's a fantastic debut and extremely well written, I just didn't care much for any of the characters which lead me to struggle a little bit with wanting to root for Holly and Declan.
There are some fantastic tropes in this book - childhood enemies to lovers, grumpy / sunshine, workplace romance, and a little forced proximity.
I'm not a fan of love triangles and so when the book started out with Holly being in love with the other brother and pretty much obsessing over him, I was like ehhh. I like my romances to be fully about the main couple of the book rather than a bit where one of the main characters are interested in someone else. It was clear early on that Declan was head over heels for Holly, but she was too caught up in George or something else to see it which was a little frustrating.
I desperately wish this was dual POV! I needed more insight into Declan's mind since I felt like I knew so little about him and how he felt. I wanted more scenes of them together, getting to know each other and realizing they aren't so much of enemies as they thought they were. What we got was super sweet though and they had fun banter.
Overall, I felt like some things were missing to make this a 4 or more star read for me. The beginning was slow and then once we get the good part it was over too quickly. I hope this didn't come off as too critical or that I didn't like the book because I did. I'll be sure to read more of Margaret in the future!
single POV
3/5 stars ⭐️
1.5/5 spice level 🌶️
Thank you Margaret for the eARC!
August 12, 2023
Take one part hopeless romantic girl and one part moody boy, and you get Holly and Declan, constantly at odds with each other... until they're not.
Holly is completely and utterly infatuated with George (Declan's brother), and being his personal assistant just isn't getting her anywhere (professionally or personally). She loves her current position, but she also wants to climb the corporate ladder and succeed in the world of fashion.
Declan has always acted horribly toward Holly, all their lives, until a bold move by management sends everyone into a tailspin, which entails broken teeth, a public make-out session, and the sale of a boat.
Declan and Holly have a grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers situation that makes this whole book entertaining to read. The chemistry is just right with these two, and even a fake wedding is in the cards to up the ante. An easy and fast read and definitely a story to get lost in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Holly is completely and utterly infatuated with George (Declan's brother), and being his personal assistant just isn't getting her anywhere (professionally or personally). She loves her current position, but she also wants to climb the corporate ladder and succeed in the world of fashion.
Declan has always acted horribly toward Holly, all their lives, until a bold move by management sends everyone into a tailspin, which entails broken teeth, a public make-out session, and the sale of a boat.
Declan and Holly have a grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers situation that makes this whole book entertaining to read. The chemistry is just right with these two, and even a fake wedding is in the cards to up the ante. An easy and fast read and definitely a story to get lost in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 27, 2023
I enjoyed the plot and the characters, the fact that the history happens in a department store is actually something very interesting.
But I thought the beginning was very confusing and it took me a while to understand who was who and what exactly was going on. The fact that Holly calls her mom "the General" didn't help. Some points of the book seemed to be overly complicated without a good reason and some situations between the characters are so easily fixable but there's a lot of miscommunication and that kind of gets tiring after some time.
However, as it was a story that was lighthearted and funny and it was great to see the characters finding out who they really are, it was a book that I really liked and would recommend to friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But I thought the beginning was very confusing and it took me a while to understand who was who and what exactly was going on. The fact that Holly calls her mom "the General" didn't help. Some points of the book seemed to be overly complicated without a good reason and some situations between the characters are so easily fixable but there's a lot of miscommunication and that kind of gets tiring after some time.
However, as it was a story that was lighthearted and funny and it was great to see the characters finding out who they really are, it was a book that I really liked and would recommend to friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2023
Childhood rivalry hasn’t mellowed with age. Holly and Declan still can’t see eye to eye. BUT! And it’s a big but. They actually manage to work together to save his family’s company (yay!) and whilst doing so spend time together and build a loving relationship.
A very cute, slow burn, closed door romance. Holly and Declan’s verbal sparring was entertaining and had me smiling and giggling.
A fun storyline filled with characters on a journey of personal growth, a never say die attitude, sweetness, underlying chemistry and a great HEA.
I hope this becomes a series as there’s a few characters that I’d love to read more of.
Overall I highly recommend this story by a new author, I look forward to reading more from Ms Rose.
I received an ARC from The Author Agency and this is my honest review.
A very cute, slow burn, closed door romance. Holly and Declan’s verbal sparring was entertaining and had me smiling and giggling.
A fun storyline filled with characters on a journey of personal growth, a never say die attitude, sweetness, underlying chemistry and a great HEA.
I hope this becomes a series as there’s a few characters that I’d love to read more of.
Overall I highly recommend this story by a new author, I look forward to reading more from Ms Rose.
I received an ARC from The Author Agency and this is my honest review.
March 6, 2023
"Sink or Sell" is truly an impressive debut for author Margaret Rose. I loved the fun dynamic between main characters Holly Stewart and Declan Lorden; their frenemies-to-lovers romance may have been a slow burn, but the payoff was worth the wait. I also appreciated that Declan was so different from the typical wealthy businessmen depicted in many romance novels. Instead of being an overly controlling alpha, he was a little bit nerdy and just wanted to be seen as one of the employees, not as their boss. (I can't lie, I swooned a little bit when he put on the Baby Yoda t-shirt! I love nerdy guys.) He was also a hard worker and knew how to do just about every job in his family's department store, much like Holly, who'd started working for Lorden's when she was only 16. It took a while for them to see it, but they really did make a perfect pair, and I was rooting for them the whole way.
I highly recommend this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story for all contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I look forward to whatever the author writes next.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I highly recommend this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story for all contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I look forward to whatever the author writes next.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 1, 2023
I received this as an arc from The Author Agency and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was a debut novel and it showed sometimes. It was really well written and I’m really marking it up because of the writing. The storyline had great potential but the characters were a bit flat. It was written from Holly’s point of view throughout and it would have been interesting if it had been duel point of view. The story had a lot of humor and I liked that but the characters needed more depth.
This was a debut novel and it showed sometimes. It was really well written and I’m really marking it up because of the writing. The storyline had great potential but the characters were a bit flat. It was written from Holly’s point of view throughout and it would have been interesting if it had been duel point of view. The story had a lot of humor and I liked that but the characters needed more depth.
February 21, 2023
I wanna work at Lorden's!
Holy cow, what a book. The romance was sweet, the plot strong, the comedy A+. I have nothing bad to say; and it's the author's debut?! Even the writing was above par, in my opinion. Every single character was well written with so much voice.
Best parts:
-The elevator scene! Hilarious with so much secondhand embarrassment.
-The FMC Holly's so likeable, funny, and driven.
-Swoon worthy nerdy/preppy MMC, Declan.
-Lenny!
-Watching Declan grow and learning to express his feelings.
-Watching Holly face her fears, and trying something new (being a stylist).
-The Lorden's Department store setting. The author presented Lorden's department store as its own character perfectly!
-When Holly fell down the escalator later on, and Declan was like "not again."
In my opinion, this book is utter perfection. It's got romance, comedy, strong plot, grumpy/sunshine vibes, and strong characters.
5/5! I will be purchasing a physical copy of this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Holy cow, what a book. The romance was sweet, the plot strong, the comedy A+. I have nothing bad to say; and it's the author's debut?! Even the writing was above par, in my opinion. Every single character was well written with so much voice.
Best parts:
-The elevator scene! Hilarious with so much secondhand embarrassment.
-The FMC Holly's so likeable, funny, and driven.
-Swoon worthy nerdy/preppy MMC, Declan.
-Lenny!
-Watching Declan grow and learning to express his feelings.
-Watching Holly face her fears, and trying something new (being a stylist).
-The Lorden's Department store setting. The author presented Lorden's department store as its own character perfectly!
-When Holly fell down the escalator later on, and Declan was like "not again."
In my opinion, this book is utter perfection. It's got romance, comedy, strong plot, grumpy/sunshine vibes, and strong characters.
5/5! I will be purchasing a physical copy of this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2023
This book gave me Harrison Ford Sabrina vibes with a fresh modern day twist and I was here for it. Twists and turns in the plot along with some thorough kissing pulled me through by the nose. It's funny and full of good old fashioned sexual chemistry and tension. Kudos Margaret Rose.
February 27, 2023
Holly Stewart has dedicated most of her professional life to the Lorden’s department store but in the age of online shopping, not even she may be able to save it from bankruptcy. With her job in peril and her love life seemingly not existent, Holly tries to keep the sinking ship of a store afloat.
Sink or Sell is an open door, stand-alone romance. It has just the right mix of sassy banter and swoon worthy moments. The descriptions of the designer items are lush and vivid. I could easily picture each item of clothing.
Holly is such a phenomenal FMC. She’s fiercely loyal and deeply dedicated but she’s not perfect. Her flaws, particularly her clumsiness make her all the more relatable. While George Lorden appears to be her complete opposite, he is also shown to be greatly misunderstood.
Although Lenny is not a main character, he is truly a gem of a side character. Much of Holly’s growth and motivation can be traced back to their friendship.
What a fantastic debut! The author’s knowledge along with her fun sense of humor is present throughout the storyline. Her background as a former stylist is apparent in the attention to detail. I look forward to reading more from Margaret Rose in the future.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sink or Sell is an open door, stand-alone romance. It has just the right mix of sassy banter and swoon worthy moments. The descriptions of the designer items are lush and vivid. I could easily picture each item of clothing.
Holly is such a phenomenal FMC. She’s fiercely loyal and deeply dedicated but she’s not perfect. Her flaws, particularly her clumsiness make her all the more relatable. While George Lorden appears to be her complete opposite, he is also shown to be greatly misunderstood.
Although Lenny is not a main character, he is truly a gem of a side character. Much of Holly’s growth and motivation can be traced back to their friendship.
What a fantastic debut! The author’s knowledge along with her fun sense of humor is present throughout the storyline. Her background as a former stylist is apparent in the attention to detail. I look forward to reading more from Margaret Rose in the future.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 8, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: Childhood enemies ✅
Boss ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Groveling ✅
Billionaire ✅
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Summary: Holly has worked at Lorden's department store for years, and she never plans to leave. Why would she? The owner's son, George, happens to be the guy she's been silently in love with since they were in school together, and it allows her to be surrounded by fashion all day. Literally nothing could go wrong.
Until, she makes the impulsive decision to kiss George and then everything she knows seems to come tumbling down around her. Lorden's, Seattle's oldest retail empire, is going downhill quickly, and it is only a matter of time before it's doors are shut forever. George is now moving to Hawaii to work at another Lorden's, which leaves his brother, and Holly's nemesis, Declan to run the location where Holly works. Declan has made Holly's life miserable, and when he quite literally, BEGS her to stay and help him with a last ditch effort to save Lorden's, Holly is flabergasted. Who is this man, and where did he take Declan?
Holly agrees to help Declan, but only because she loves Lorden's (not because there's now a tiny, prickling feeling in her gut that maybe, just maybe she had been in love with the wrong brother all along).
Review: This book gave me all of the warm and cozy vibes that I look for in a romcom. I adored the setting and Holly and Declan have the BEST banter. And talk about tension! Whew!! I'm pretty sure I had a smile on my face the entire time that I was reading this book, and I'm already hoping to see more of Holly and Declan and the other characters that worked alongside them.
While this is Margaret Rose's debut novel, I can already tell you that she will be an auto-buy author for me! Her writing is fabulous, and the masterful way in which she transports you to be right alongside her characters is something that she has already mastered.
Tropes: Childhood enemies ✅
Boss ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Groveling ✅
Billionaire ✅
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Summary: Holly has worked at Lorden's department store for years, and she never plans to leave. Why would she? The owner's son, George, happens to be the guy she's been silently in love with since they were in school together, and it allows her to be surrounded by fashion all day. Literally nothing could go wrong.
Until, she makes the impulsive decision to kiss George and then everything she knows seems to come tumbling down around her. Lorden's, Seattle's oldest retail empire, is going downhill quickly, and it is only a matter of time before it's doors are shut forever. George is now moving to Hawaii to work at another Lorden's, which leaves his brother, and Holly's nemesis, Declan to run the location where Holly works. Declan has made Holly's life miserable, and when he quite literally, BEGS her to stay and help him with a last ditch effort to save Lorden's, Holly is flabergasted. Who is this man, and where did he take Declan?
Holly agrees to help Declan, but only because she loves Lorden's (not because there's now a tiny, prickling feeling in her gut that maybe, just maybe she had been in love with the wrong brother all along).
Review: This book gave me all of the warm and cozy vibes that I look for in a romcom. I adored the setting and Holly and Declan have the BEST banter. And talk about tension! Whew!! I'm pretty sure I had a smile on my face the entire time that I was reading this book, and I'm already hoping to see more of Holly and Declan and the other characters that worked alongside them.
While this is Margaret Rose's debut novel, I can already tell you that she will be an auto-buy author for me! Her writing is fabulous, and the masterful way in which she transports you to be right alongside her characters is something that she has already mastered.
February 7, 2023
Holly Stewart & Declan Lorden are trying to rescue Lordens, the largest department store in Seattle, which is in danger of being closed, or sold off after being in the Lorden family for more than 100 years.
Holly believed she was in love with George, Declan’s brother, but he has been moved to the store in Hawaii to try and keep that open, leaving her with her unrequited feelings, and Declan as her new boss.
Despite her loathing Declan, Holly agrees to help him to manage his new role, and he in turn helps to train her up as a Sales Assistant.
This book is well plotted with likeable and believable characters and situations. The author has written a slow burn love story, with a “will they, won’t they” theme running throughout.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys easy to read romantic comedies with a strong storyline, and heart.
I read it within 2 days, and loved it, although there were times I wanted to shout at the two main characters.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Holly believed she was in love with George, Declan’s brother, but he has been moved to the store in Hawaii to try and keep that open, leaving her with her unrequited feelings, and Declan as her new boss.
Despite her loathing Declan, Holly agrees to help him to manage his new role, and he in turn helps to train her up as a Sales Assistant.
This book is well plotted with likeable and believable characters and situations. The author has written a slow burn love story, with a “will they, won’t they” theme running throughout.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys easy to read romantic comedies with a strong storyline, and heart.
I read it within 2 days, and loved it, although there were times I wanted to shout at the two main characters.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
March 16, 2023
I loved every piece of this book!
It struck a lot of chords with me, and brought back a LOT of memories. When I was working retail, I too was working at a major store that ended up closing. It was terribly painful to watch everything dwindle down to nothing, and pull that gate closed for the last time.
And also, like the female main character, I too was infatuated with someone at the job, who ended up wanting different… things. LOL (don't worry, it all worked out, he's one of my best friends now!)
It struck a lot of chords with me, and brought back a LOT of memories. When I was working retail, I too was working at a major store that ended up closing. It was terribly painful to watch everything dwindle down to nothing, and pull that gate closed for the last time.
And also, like the female main character, I too was infatuated with someone at the job, who ended up wanting different… things. LOL (don't worry, it all worked out, he's one of my best friends now!)
June 3, 2023
⭐️5/5 | 🌶️2/5
This author must be telepathically linked with me because when I tell you this FMC, Holly, and I are the same person, I mean it. 👯♀️
We first meet our MMC during a scene in which Holly manages to break an escalator and nearly fall to her 💀. And that is the perfect star to a dynamic that had me literally SQUEALING as I read the way Holly and Declan evolve from #enemiestolovers (ish) to steamy, supportive partners.
Our MMC seems like a buttoned up jerk at first, but wait until Holly discovers the absolute nerd that lies underneath. 🎲🐉
The relationships this author portrays among not just the MCs but their families, friends, are so fun and lead to banter that was both perfectly timed and so spot on for the Devil Wears Prada vibes this book gives.
The LGBTQ+ representation in this fun read is out of this world, and was a perfect start for Pride Month.
All in all, so glad The Author Agency shared this fun ARC read with me.
This author must be telepathically linked with me because when I tell you this FMC, Holly, and I are the same person, I mean it. 👯♀️
We first meet our MMC during a scene in which Holly manages to break an escalator and nearly fall to her 💀. And that is the perfect star to a dynamic that had me literally SQUEALING as I read the way Holly and Declan evolve from #enemiestolovers (ish) to steamy, supportive partners.
Our MMC seems like a buttoned up jerk at first, but wait until Holly discovers the absolute nerd that lies underneath. 🎲🐉
The relationships this author portrays among not just the MCs but their families, friends, are so fun and lead to banter that was both perfectly timed and so spot on for the Devil Wears Prada vibes this book gives.
The LGBTQ+ representation in this fun read is out of this world, and was a perfect start for Pride Month.
All in all, so glad The Author Agency shared this fun ARC read with me.
January 27, 2023
I received this ARC, and I could not have been so excited to start a new book! I found Margaret Rose, because of Elliot Fletcher's instagram story. And I'm so glad I did, she is for sure going to be one of my favorite Rom Com authors.
Now onto the review of the actual book. The story follows Holly, who has been working at a famous department store in Seattle since she was 16. Before that, her grandma was working there as a famous seamstress. Fast forward, and Holly is in her mid/late twenties. She's been in love with George since the moment she's met him. George is the son of one of the owners of the store, and Holly's boss. After kissing him at a Christmas party, she thinks she's finally ready to confess her feelings to him. Except she never gets the chance to. She finds out the store is in danger of permanently closing. After a family conversation between the Lorden's (the family that owns the department store by the same name), it is discussed that George would go to a different store, and try to improve it, while the other brother, Declan would stay at the flagship store in Seattle.
Now, Holly is not Declan's biggest fan, especially since he's been nothing but mean and rude to her since they've met when she was 16. But when Declan gets down on his knees and begs for her help to save Lorden's, she knows she has to say yes. And while they work together to save the store, Holly realizes that maybe Declan's not as bad as she thought.
Now this story had the wholesomeness of B.K. Borison, with all of the banter from Abby Jimenez. If you know, I'm a huge fan of their work, so to get all of that in one, was super fun and exciting. This story is a slow burn, which I'm typically a fan of, because it feels more natural to me than the ista-love trope. There's also some childhood enemies/and "You were always the one" trope in this. Add a workplace romance, and this book has so much to work with. I really enjoyed Holly as the main character, she was head strong, and her internal dialogue was not annoying in the slightest. I really liked that she accepted her feelings almost immediately, and didn't deny them for half of the book, like some other stories. I also really loved Declan as the MMC. His pure devotion and love for her was super cute.
Another thing that I LOVED was the touch of self-discovery. I really enjoyed flawed characters that are self-reflecting and just trying to improve as characters. It makes them feel, much more human. It's something all of my favorite authors do, and she did this so so well.
The two things that I wish the book had, was the duo-POV. It didn't necessarily need it, but I'm such a sucker with wanting to know what both main characters were thinking, aha. The second thing I wish was that we got more scenes with some of the secondary characters like Lenny. I really loved his vibe, but I love a book where I can love the side characters just as much as the main characters. Even though I really liked him, I feel like he was absent from a lot of the book, and he was missing a layer of depth that both Holly and Declan had.
Now even though, I mentioned those two things, I'm 100% nitpicking. I really enjoyed the story, and I can't wait for Margaret Rose's next release. I'm definitely keeping an eye out for her future work, because I truly believe she can make it big in the industry. Super talented, and great overall writer & storyteller.
Thank you again for gifting me this ARC!
Now onto the review of the actual book. The story follows Holly, who has been working at a famous department store in Seattle since she was 16. Before that, her grandma was working there as a famous seamstress. Fast forward, and Holly is in her mid/late twenties. She's been in love with George since the moment she's met him. George is the son of one of the owners of the store, and Holly's boss. After kissing him at a Christmas party, she thinks she's finally ready to confess her feelings to him. Except she never gets the chance to. She finds out the store is in danger of permanently closing. After a family conversation between the Lorden's (the family that owns the department store by the same name), it is discussed that George would go to a different store, and try to improve it, while the other brother, Declan would stay at the flagship store in Seattle.
Now, Holly is not Declan's biggest fan, especially since he's been nothing but mean and rude to her since they've met when she was 16. But when Declan gets down on his knees and begs for her help to save Lorden's, she knows she has to say yes. And while they work together to save the store, Holly realizes that maybe Declan's not as bad as she thought.
Now this story had the wholesomeness of B.K. Borison, with all of the banter from Abby Jimenez. If you know, I'm a huge fan of their work, so to get all of that in one, was super fun and exciting. This story is a slow burn, which I'm typically a fan of, because it feels more natural to me than the ista-love trope. There's also some childhood enemies/and "You were always the one" trope in this. Add a workplace romance, and this book has so much to work with. I really enjoyed Holly as the main character, she was head strong, and her internal dialogue was not annoying in the slightest. I really liked that she accepted her feelings almost immediately, and didn't deny them for half of the book, like some other stories. I also really loved Declan as the MMC. His pure devotion and love for her was super cute.
Another thing that I LOVED was the touch of self-discovery. I really enjoyed flawed characters that are self-reflecting and just trying to improve as characters. It makes them feel, much more human. It's something all of my favorite authors do, and she did this so so well.
The two things that I wish the book had, was the duo-POV. It didn't necessarily need it, but I'm such a sucker with wanting to know what both main characters were thinking, aha. The second thing I wish was that we got more scenes with some of the secondary characters like Lenny. I really loved his vibe, but I love a book where I can love the side characters just as much as the main characters. Even though I really liked him, I feel like he was absent from a lot of the book, and he was missing a layer of depth that both Holly and Declan had.
Now even though, I mentioned those two things, I'm 100% nitpicking. I really enjoyed the story, and I can't wait for Margaret Rose's next release. I'm definitely keeping an eye out for her future work, because I truly believe she can make it big in the industry. Super talented, and great overall writer & storyteller.
Thank you again for gifting me this ARC!
May 28, 2023
⭐ 4.5
Reading this book was like watching a movie from the 2000s, light, funny, with a touch of drama but above all that makes you sigh all the time 🥰
Our main characters are Holly and Declan; Declan being her "boss" and she being an employee at Lordens shopping center, this couple's story is really fun, you see how they make a kind of friends and then you see how they form a kind of relationship that makes you fall in love because happens so naturally, besides that our Declan is a sweetheart even if he is a bit grumpy. The side characters are so lovely, the love they have for the mall as they try to save it (here we hate Declan's dad), in addition to Holly's family being a support for her, I liked her dynamics even when some actions of the mother, I feel like she was doing it to encourage Holly because she knew she could do more.
This story was very good to read, the slow burn was good because it was natural, it didn't feel forced, the relationship between these two was so good, how protective he is and what a good person and optimist Holly is makes me want to be like her
Margaret is a new author for me, I liked her writing style and I can't wait to read another book from her 🫶🏻
🫂 thank you to Margaret Rose and The Author Agency for gave me this arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
___________________________
Leer este libro fue como ver una película de los 2000, ligera, divertida, con su toque de drama pero sobre todo que te hace suspirar a cada rato.
Nuestros protagonistas son Holly y Declan; Declan siendo su “jefe” y ella siendo empleada del centro comercial Lordens, la historia de este par es re divertida,ves como pasan hacer una clase de amigos y luego ves cómo forman una clase de relación que enamora, pasa tan naturalmente además de que nuestro Declan es un amor de persona aun cuando sea un poco gruñón. Los personajes secundarios son un amor, el amor que le tienen al centro comercial como intentan salvarlo (aquí odiamos al papá de Declan), además de la familia de Holly siendo un soporte para ella, su dinámica me gusto aun cuando algunas acciones de la mama siento que lo hacia para darles animos a Holly porque sabia que ella podia hacer mas.
En resumen, esta historia fue muy buena de leer, el slow burn fue bueno porque fue natural, no se sintió nada forzado, la relación de estos dos enamora, lo protector que él es y lo buena persona y optimista que es Holly me hace querer ser como ella
Margaret es una nueva autora para mi, me gusto su estilo de escritura y no puedo esperar a leer algún otro libro de ella
Reading this book was like watching a movie from the 2000s, light, funny, with a touch of drama but above all that makes you sigh all the time 🥰
Our main characters are Holly and Declan; Declan being her "boss" and she being an employee at Lordens shopping center, this couple's story is really fun, you see how they make a kind of friends and then you see how they form a kind of relationship that makes you fall in love because happens so naturally, besides that our Declan is a sweetheart even if he is a bit grumpy. The side characters are so lovely, the love they have for the mall as they try to save it (here we hate Declan's dad), in addition to Holly's family being a support for her, I liked her dynamics even when some actions of the mother, I feel like she was doing it to encourage Holly because she knew she could do more.
This story was very good to read, the slow burn was good because it was natural, it didn't feel forced, the relationship between these two was so good, how protective he is and what a good person and optimist Holly is makes me want to be like her
Margaret is a new author for me, I liked her writing style and I can't wait to read another book from her 🫶🏻
🫂 thank you to Margaret Rose and The Author Agency for gave me this arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
___________________________
Leer este libro fue como ver una película de los 2000, ligera, divertida, con su toque de drama pero sobre todo que te hace suspirar a cada rato.
Nuestros protagonistas son Holly y Declan; Declan siendo su “jefe” y ella siendo empleada del centro comercial Lordens, la historia de este par es re divertida,ves como pasan hacer una clase de amigos y luego ves cómo forman una clase de relación que enamora, pasa tan naturalmente además de que nuestro Declan es un amor de persona aun cuando sea un poco gruñón. Los personajes secundarios son un amor, el amor que le tienen al centro comercial como intentan salvarlo (aquí odiamos al papá de Declan), además de la familia de Holly siendo un soporte para ella, su dinámica me gusto aun cuando algunas acciones de la mama siento que lo hacia para darles animos a Holly porque sabia que ella podia hacer mas.
En resumen, esta historia fue muy buena de leer, el slow burn fue bueno porque fue natural, no se sintió nada forzado, la relación de estos dos enamora, lo protector que él es y lo buena persona y optimista que es Holly me hace querer ser como ella
Margaret es una nueva autora para mi, me gusto su estilo de escritura y no puedo esperar a leer algún otro libro de ella
February 20, 2023
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
Thank you @margaretrosebooks for an early copy of Sink or Sell. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Sink or Sell is a childhood enemies-to-lovers romance about Holly and Declan; Holly, a textile grad, has had a crush on her boss, George Lorden, for the longest time. Having taken different roles in Lorden’s store throughout the years and being George’s assistant, Holly has remained loyal to the store, its employees, and the Lorden family despite not landing a corporate job in the company – yet. All of that changes when she learns the company is sinking, all office staff, including Holly, are out of a job, and George is being transferred to Hawaii. Declan, George’s brother, and Holly’s least-favorite human being is taking over George’s job at the store. Declan begs her to stay and help him keep the family’s legacy afloat. They agree to help each other, Declan helps Holly with Sales and Designer, while Holly helps Declan with admin. Their attraction to each other grows exponentially as they spend their time together.
There was so much character development in this book, I loved how both the characters got to shine big time, individually, especially Holly. She’s driven, intelligent, and insightful. Knowing the ins and outs at the store was enough of a massive leap as it is, but she conquered her fears as well as handling Sales and being a stylist, and she was excellent at it. I loved all the support and encouragement she was given by every staff, the Lordens, and of course Mrs. Smith. Additionally, I appreciated how her views of Declan changed throughout the story, through his actions she learned another side of him, one that doesn’t the hostility they share against each other, the side that pays attention and cares. Meanwhile, I also loved Declan’s development – I applaud him for admitting defeat that he needed Holly’s help as he stepped into his new role as Store Manager. He also learned how to conquer his fears, and was able to be upfront about his feelings for Holly.
The supporting characters were a delight as well, especially their client Mrs. Smith. Despite her strict and high-maintenance façade, I loved that she took a chance on Holly; despite being new to the department, she believed in her abilities.
Rating Sink or Sell ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Releases February 28th, 2023!
Thank you @margaretrosebooks for an early copy of Sink or Sell. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Sink or Sell is a childhood enemies-to-lovers romance about Holly and Declan; Holly, a textile grad, has had a crush on her boss, George Lorden, for the longest time. Having taken different roles in Lorden’s store throughout the years and being George’s assistant, Holly has remained loyal to the store, its employees, and the Lorden family despite not landing a corporate job in the company – yet. All of that changes when she learns the company is sinking, all office staff, including Holly, are out of a job, and George is being transferred to Hawaii. Declan, George’s brother, and Holly’s least-favorite human being is taking over George’s job at the store. Declan begs her to stay and help him keep the family’s legacy afloat. They agree to help each other, Declan helps Holly with Sales and Designer, while Holly helps Declan with admin. Their attraction to each other grows exponentially as they spend their time together.
There was so much character development in this book, I loved how both the characters got to shine big time, individually, especially Holly. She’s driven, intelligent, and insightful. Knowing the ins and outs at the store was enough of a massive leap as it is, but she conquered her fears as well as handling Sales and being a stylist, and she was excellent at it. I loved all the support and encouragement she was given by every staff, the Lordens, and of course Mrs. Smith. Additionally, I appreciated how her views of Declan changed throughout the story, through his actions she learned another side of him, one that doesn’t the hostility they share against each other, the side that pays attention and cares. Meanwhile, I also loved Declan’s development – I applaud him for admitting defeat that he needed Holly’s help as he stepped into his new role as Store Manager. He also learned how to conquer his fears, and was able to be upfront about his feelings for Holly.
The supporting characters were a delight as well, especially their client Mrs. Smith. Despite her strict and high-maintenance façade, I loved that she took a chance on Holly; despite being new to the department, she believed in her abilities.
Rating Sink or Sell ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Releases February 28th, 2023!
February 13, 2023
(Rating this a GOOD 3 🌟!! Very neutral! Rating books is so subjective! I’m having a hard time figuring out why I felt like something was missing?? Because I did very much enjoy this book!! I will definitely keep reading books from this author!)
This book was so sweet! I honestly love nothing more than long term enemies to lovers especially when he CLEARLY has been in love with her the whole time but she has been so focused on someone else AND hating him that she never gave him a second thought. And they’ve been around each other for YEARS?! And EVERYONE knows he loves her?! This is the type of book I always WISH it was dual POV, not that it’s necessarily NEEDED, because it’s always good without but I just want to KNOW what the male MC is thinking at all times!
I loved the family that Lorden’s created. Holly had worked there forever, and even before she did her grandma did. Even when she moved positions and felt like an outsider she quickly was able to adapt because they are a family. I loved that her best friend was Declan’s uncle, it was honestly so sweet.
I thought Declan and Holly were SO SWEET. They worked so well together trying to save the store! He wanted nothing more than to give her everything she ever dreamed of. Their enemies to lovers banter was SO good. They’ve known each other since they were kids so there was so much built up tension! And now that they’re finally realizing how much they care about each other…perfect!!
I felt like there was something missing though? It was so fast paced and there was so much going on between the store and the romance and the side characters, but I felt like something was missing?
And the lack of communication/lack of communication ALWAYS frustrates me. It was so clear how he felt, and we could tell that everyone in their loves knew! But it took forever Declan to really put it all on the table, even after he initially made it clear he was interested? And it was because Declan had so much going on, between his new role, his long term feelings for Holly, his family stress and pressures - so it all made sense with the story!! Especially when they DO figure it out!
Thank you SO much to Margaret Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to see what else she puts out!!
This book was so sweet! I honestly love nothing more than long term enemies to lovers especially when he CLEARLY has been in love with her the whole time but she has been so focused on someone else AND hating him that she never gave him a second thought. And they’ve been around each other for YEARS?! And EVERYONE knows he loves her?! This is the type of book I always WISH it was dual POV, not that it’s necessarily NEEDED, because it’s always good without but I just want to KNOW what the male MC is thinking at all times!
I loved the family that Lorden’s created. Holly had worked there forever, and even before she did her grandma did. Even when she moved positions and felt like an outsider she quickly was able to adapt because they are a family. I loved that her best friend was Declan’s uncle, it was honestly so sweet.
I thought Declan and Holly were SO SWEET. They worked so well together trying to save the store! He wanted nothing more than to give her everything she ever dreamed of. Their enemies to lovers banter was SO good. They’ve known each other since they were kids so there was so much built up tension! And now that they’re finally realizing how much they care about each other…perfect!!
I felt like there was something missing though? It was so fast paced and there was so much going on between the store and the romance and the side characters, but I felt like something was missing?
And the lack of communication/lack of communication ALWAYS frustrates me. It was so clear how he felt, and we could tell that everyone in their loves knew! But it took forever Declan to really put it all on the table, even after he initially made it clear he was interested? And it was because Declan had so much going on, between his new role, his long term feelings for Holly, his family stress and pressures - so it all made sense with the story!! Especially when they DO figure it out!
Thank you SO much to Margaret Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to see what else she puts out!!
February 28, 2023
I had the pleasure to be given an opportunity to read the ARC of Sink Or Sell from Margaret Rose. This book was such a delight. If you know me, you know I am your quintessential romcom lover!! Any day of the week, I love the light and easiness to a romantic comedy because I am here for the laughs LOL. Sink or sell has the laughs!!!
The characters were written with such flair, a refreshing take compared to most mainstream romances. These characters were all so weird and quirky in the best way! The character development and acceptance made my heart so happy. So much representation in this book made it shine. The topics were built on such a great foundation, and it really opens the community up to learn, understand, and accept.
Holly and Declan, childhood rivals and enemies, have to learn to work with one another to set their futures up for success. But, can they both make it out on the other side or will their feelings get them tangled up and take them on a journey neither were expecting? My favorite character without a doubt was Len. Read this book and tell me he’s not yours either. What a gem!!
If you like these… read Sink or Sell:
👠 enemies/childhood rivals to lovers
🧵 workplace romance
🪡 he falls first
👟 grumpy x sunshine
Quotes (subject to have changed in published book)
* “I know this family so well, but office well, not eating cheeseburgers and passing the Heinz well.” - from a Pittsburgh native, we take the Heinz seriously 😂
* “I would rather pee on the street, get arrested, and have indecent exposure on my record for life than ever be stuck in another bathroom with you.” I still LOL at this one!
* “Don’t make it sound like that…. Like what?… Like I’m willingly giving you away because I’m not.”
* “You think I’m great?” “Amazing,” he breathes. “Brilliant. Strong. Fascinating.” (swoon 😍)
All in all, a great work from Margaret. Thank you for the laughs 💜
The characters were written with such flair, a refreshing take compared to most mainstream romances. These characters were all so weird and quirky in the best way! The character development and acceptance made my heart so happy. So much representation in this book made it shine. The topics were built on such a great foundation, and it really opens the community up to learn, understand, and accept.
Holly and Declan, childhood rivals and enemies, have to learn to work with one another to set their futures up for success. But, can they both make it out on the other side or will their feelings get them tangled up and take them on a journey neither were expecting? My favorite character without a doubt was Len. Read this book and tell me he’s not yours either. What a gem!!
If you like these… read Sink or Sell:
👠 enemies/childhood rivals to lovers
🧵 workplace romance
🪡 he falls first
👟 grumpy x sunshine
Quotes (subject to have changed in published book)
* “I know this family so well, but office well, not eating cheeseburgers and passing the Heinz well.” - from a Pittsburgh native, we take the Heinz seriously 😂
* “I would rather pee on the street, get arrested, and have indecent exposure on my record for life than ever be stuck in another bathroom with you.” I still LOL at this one!
* “Don’t make it sound like that…. Like what?… Like I’m willingly giving you away because I’m not.”
* “You think I’m great?” “Amazing,” he breathes. “Brilliant. Strong. Fascinating.” (swoon 😍)
All in all, a great work from Margaret. Thank you for the laughs 💜
March 25, 2023
Loved the determination that both Declan and Holly to keep Declan's legacy going, Lorden's. A grand department store over 116 years old in Seattle, WA. Holly thought that Declan had been out to humiliate and hurt her every day, little did she know that he truly cared for her. When George, the older brother to Declan, who Holly was infatuated with moved to Hawaii to manage that store, Declan and Holly had to work closely together. It was during the end of the flagship store in Seattle that Holly realizes Declan did not dislike.
A lot of ups and downs during this trial time for Lorden's department store along with the lives of the owners, the brothers who were suppose to jointly running it, George and Lenny, that Lenny finds out George has tricked him in signing documents giving up his managerial power to Louie, father to George and Declan. My heart felt deeply sad for Len, Declan and George when Louie makes his announcement.
Loved the ending and this was a very real story and visualize as real life, too. Enjoyed the drama, suspense, love, devotion and humor with Holly's physical issues!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A lot of ups and downs during this trial time for Lorden's department store along with the lives of the owners, the brothers who were suppose to jointly running it, George and Lenny, that Lenny finds out George has tricked him in signing documents giving up his managerial power to Louie, father to George and Declan. My heart felt deeply sad for Len, Declan and George when Louie makes his announcement.
Loved the ending and this was a very real story and visualize as real life, too. Enjoyed the drama, suspense, love, devotion and humor with Holly's physical issues!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2023
This was a first time read for me by this author and I had such fun reading it. It is a cute and sweet story that will having you smiling and laughing along the way. The author does a nice job of really pulling you into the story. A creatively written enemies to more story that held my interest the whole way through. I enjoyed meeting all the characters, including the supporting cast, which were all great. The banter between Holly and Declan was really entertaining. And although this was ultimately a closed door romance, you could feel the attraction and angst between them and their chemistry was undeniable.
The book definitely left me with a smile on my face and a happy feeling afterwards. The characters were interesting and well-developed with realistic qualities. The story was delightfully cute and I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for a fun and light read, that will put a smile on your face then you definitely will want to pick this one up. I enjoyed reading this book and I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The book definitely left me with a smile on my face and a happy feeling afterwards. The characters were interesting and well-developed with realistic qualities. The story was delightfully cute and I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for a fun and light read, that will put a smile on your face then you definitely will want to pick this one up. I enjoyed reading this book and I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 28, 2023
Okay Miss Margaret...what a ride! And not down Lorden's escalators, but into such a fun read!
I started this book and within the first few pages, I was hooked! Sink or Sell was delightfully humorous mixed with driven attitudes and an unapologetic sense of who we are as humans...you can either take us or leave us. Margaret Rose gives us all of that, plus so much more with this heartwarming love story about never giving up your dream or who you are to fight for the things you love and believe in.
Everything Holly is and was was so relatable. It was easy to fall in love with her. A female main character we can all be proud of (and incredivle style), along with her witty and persevering attitude. And Declan...oh ho ho OH MY. A dream man indeed! He is stoic and narcissistic on the outside, and gooey and nerdy and cute and everything else absolutely freaking adorable on the planet.
If you want a read to cheer for and to feel warm and fuzzy about, THIS IS THE ONE. Life is about taking chances and chasing happiness, and this book is SPOT ON.
I started this book and within the first few pages, I was hooked! Sink or Sell was delightfully humorous mixed with driven attitudes and an unapologetic sense of who we are as humans...you can either take us or leave us. Margaret Rose gives us all of that, plus so much more with this heartwarming love story about never giving up your dream or who you are to fight for the things you love and believe in.
Everything Holly is and was was so relatable. It was easy to fall in love with her. A female main character we can all be proud of (and incredivle style), along with her witty and persevering attitude. And Declan...oh ho ho OH MY. A dream man indeed! He is stoic and narcissistic on the outside, and gooey and nerdy and cute and everything else absolutely freaking adorable on the planet.
If you want a read to cheer for and to feel warm and fuzzy about, THIS IS THE ONE. Life is about taking chances and chasing happiness, and this book is SPOT ON.
May 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This Romcom was one of my favorites in the month of may that I got to read. 😅 talk about thrown for a loop, I hadn’t read the blurb so it definitely had a nice little turn of events for me in the beginning. Holly and Declan though are absolutely perfect..
Filled with close proximity and Enemies to lovers these two have been at odds since childhood and they’re the last people you’d expect to get along but watching their dynamic grow as the story progresses was all encompassing and a true joy to read.
Did I mention my favorite thing about this book is even though the MMC is hot ( a given 🤷🏾♀️) He’s a HOT NERD. I’m talking full blown yoda shirt wearing, dungeons & dragons playing, boat obsessed nerd 😫🙈…my whole heart swooned everytime this man pushed up his glasses 😅😰
The determination, resilience, love and empowerment in this book alone would have me reading it again and again. It’s about finding yourself, loving yourself and recognizing your own strengths and in this season of mental health awareness I think it was the perfect fit.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This Romcom was one of my favorites in the month of may that I got to read. 😅 talk about thrown for a loop, I hadn’t read the blurb so it definitely had a nice little turn of events for me in the beginning. Holly and Declan though are absolutely perfect..
Filled with close proximity and Enemies to lovers these two have been at odds since childhood and they’re the last people you’d expect to get along but watching their dynamic grow as the story progresses was all encompassing and a true joy to read.
Did I mention my favorite thing about this book is even though the MMC is hot ( a given 🤷🏾♀️) He’s a HOT NERD. I’m talking full blown yoda shirt wearing, dungeons & dragons playing, boat obsessed nerd 😫🙈…my whole heart swooned everytime this man pushed up his glasses 😅😰
The determination, resilience, love and empowerment in this book alone would have me reading it again and again. It’s about finding yourself, loving yourself and recognizing your own strengths and in this season of mental health awareness I think it was the perfect fit.
June 2, 2023
If you love enemies to lovers, childhood friends, workplace romance, this is your next read.
Holly has slowly worked her way up within the large department store since she was in high school. she has always had a crush on the “nice” brother. However it becomes painfully obvious within the first 10% that the feeling dont go both ways.
Than there is Declan, also known as the mean brother. He is the definition of “ looks like he would kill you, but is a cinnamon roll”. With his family owning the store, he is in upper management.
The more you get to know him in this book,the more I fell in love. He is a down to earth lovable nerd, that has the worst self confidence.
When pushed together due to a common goal, will these two realize its not hate they have been feeling? Or will they go their separate ways?!
The spice is minimum in this book, but don’t let that dissuade you. The tension has you yelling at the book multiple times to just “do it already”
Highly recommend for a cute, summery novel that still shows vulnerability. Also this is a LGBTQ+ friendly book!
Holly has slowly worked her way up within the large department store since she was in high school. she has always had a crush on the “nice” brother. However it becomes painfully obvious within the first 10% that the feeling dont go both ways.
Than there is Declan, also known as the mean brother. He is the definition of “ looks like he would kill you, but is a cinnamon roll”. With his family owning the store, he is in upper management.
The more you get to know him in this book,the more I fell in love. He is a down to earth lovable nerd, that has the worst self confidence.
When pushed together due to a common goal, will these two realize its not hate they have been feeling? Or will they go their separate ways?!
The spice is minimum in this book, but don’t let that dissuade you. The tension has you yelling at the book multiple times to just “do it already”
Highly recommend for a cute, summery novel that still shows vulnerability. Also this is a LGBTQ+ friendly book!
February 11, 2023
📖 SINK OR SELL by Margaret Rose.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
If your favorite trope is enemies-to-lovers and you love fashion then this slow burn romcom is for you. ♥️
Margaret's writing is witty and beautiful. I loved every single word in this book. It is full of so many funny or heartmelting quotes. Some scenes made me laugh out loud or squeal with OMG (especially the milk scene 🥛+🍪).
Declan and Holly are my new favorite couple. 💖 This novel has a group of diverse characters that I wish I had as my friends in my life. Oh, Lenny! 😘
Another thing that I loved about this book is the setting. It was refreshing (at least to me) because Holly and Declan worked at a huge department store, and I haven’t read romance with this type of setting.
I would definitely recommend this book.
Thank you, Margaret Rose, for the ARC of your lovely book. You got one extra fan–that’s me! I can't wait to read your next book!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
If your favorite trope is enemies-to-lovers and you love fashion then this slow burn romcom is for you. ♥️
Margaret's writing is witty and beautiful. I loved every single word in this book. It is full of so many funny or heartmelting quotes. Some scenes made me laugh out loud or squeal with OMG (especially the milk scene 🥛+🍪).
Declan and Holly are my new favorite couple. 💖 This novel has a group of diverse characters that I wish I had as my friends in my life. Oh, Lenny! 😘
Another thing that I loved about this book is the setting. It was refreshing (at least to me) because Holly and Declan worked at a huge department store, and I haven’t read romance with this type of setting.
I would definitely recommend this book.
Thank you, Margaret Rose, for the ARC of your lovely book. You got one extra fan–that’s me! I can't wait to read your next book!
February 26, 2023
Superstore meets The Devil Wears Prada
Obrigada Margaret, por me enviares o ARC do teu primeiro livro :)
A Holly adora tudo no seu trabalho na loja dos Loren, exceto um dos irmãos (e dono). Desde sempre que está apaixonada por George Loren, o irmão não irritante. Depois de beijar numa festa, descobre que a empresa está a falir, que ficou sem trabalho e que George pode vir a mudar de cidade.
Então, aparece o Declan - o irmão irritante - que lhe implora para que fique, que aceite o trabalho como vendedora e o ajude a salvar a loja. Relutantemente, e com a promessa de a ajudar a arranjar outro trabalho, ela aceita.
Enquanto alguém que não ama romances (já devem estar fartos de saber) fiquei bastante curiosa com este livro mesmo por ser para fãs de "The Devil Wears Prada". Achei muito mais parecido com "Superstore" do que propriamente com o primeiro, mas consigo ver o porquê da publicidade.
Foi uma leitura divertida, apesar de não ter gostado tanto quanto achei que ia gostar, já que The Devil Wears Prada é um dos meus filmes preferidos. O único problema para mim foi que não senti muita química entre o Declan e a Holly, apesar de ter amado algumas frases deste livro. Tive dificuldade em apegar-me e acho que pode ter sido por não ser POV duplo e só vermos o lado da Holly. Gostava muito de poder ver o ponto de vista do Declan.
Adorei a família que as personagens criaram na loja, mesmo ao estilo de Superstore. Quando a Holly mudou de posição estava tão nervosa e todos a ajudaram a sentir-se em casa, clientes incluídos.
Se gostam de romances, "Superstore" e "The Devil Wears Prada" tenho a certeza que vão gostar deste livro!
Obrigada Margaret, por me enviares o ARC do teu primeiro livro :)
A Holly adora tudo no seu trabalho na loja dos Loren, exceto um dos irmãos (e dono). Desde sempre que está apaixonada por George Loren, o irmão não irritante. Depois de beijar numa festa, descobre que a empresa está a falir, que ficou sem trabalho e que George pode vir a mudar de cidade.
Então, aparece o Declan - o irmão irritante - que lhe implora para que fique, que aceite o trabalho como vendedora e o ajude a salvar a loja. Relutantemente, e com a promessa de a ajudar a arranjar outro trabalho, ela aceita.
Enquanto alguém que não ama romances (já devem estar fartos de saber) fiquei bastante curiosa com este livro mesmo por ser para fãs de "The Devil Wears Prada". Achei muito mais parecido com "Superstore" do que propriamente com o primeiro, mas consigo ver o porquê da publicidade.
Foi uma leitura divertida, apesar de não ter gostado tanto quanto achei que ia gostar, já que The Devil Wears Prada é um dos meus filmes preferidos. O único problema para mim foi que não senti muita química entre o Declan e a Holly, apesar de ter amado algumas frases deste livro. Tive dificuldade em apegar-me e acho que pode ter sido por não ser POV duplo e só vermos o lado da Holly. Gostava muito de poder ver o ponto de vista do Declan.
Adorei a família que as personagens criaram na loja, mesmo ao estilo de Superstore. Quando a Holly mudou de posição estava tão nervosa e todos a ajudaram a sentir-se em casa, clientes incluídos.
Se gostam de romances, "Superstore" e "The Devil Wears Prada" tenho a certeza que vão gostar deste livro!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews