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Love in the Balance #1
Tempting the Billionaire
BUSINESS OR PLEASURE?
Crickitt Day needs a job . . . any job. After her husband walks out on her, she's determined to re-build her life and establish a new career. When swoon-worthy billionaire Shane August hires her as his assistant, she jumps at the chance to prove herself. Despite her growing attraction to her boss, she vows to keep things strictly professional. No flirting. No kissing. Definitely no falling in love...
Shane August is all business, all the time. He's a self-made man who's poured his heart and soul into his company, and he'd never allow himself to get involved with an employee. Then he hires sweet, sexy Crickitt-and he can't keep his mind or his hands off her. But no matter how much he wants Crickitt, Shane fears that painful secrets from his past will always come between them. With fate working against them, can these two lonely hearts learn that sometimes mixing business with pleasure is the perfect merger?
Crickitt Day needs a job . . . any job. After her husband walks out on her, she's determined to re-build her life and establish a new career. When swoon-worthy billionaire Shane August hires her as his assistant, she jumps at the chance to prove herself. Despite her growing attraction to her boss, she vows to keep things strictly professional. No flirting. No kissing. Definitely no falling in love...
Shane August is all business, all the time. He's a self-made man who's poured his heart and soul into his company, and he'd never allow himself to get involved with an employee. Then he hires sweet, sexy Crickitt-and he can't keep his mind or his hands off her. But no matter how much he wants Crickitt, Shane fears that painful secrets from his past will always come between them. With fate working against them, can these two lonely hearts learn that sometimes mixing business with pleasure is the perfect merger?
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
112 people are currently reading
3831 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Lemmon
201 books1,915 followersJessica Lemmon is a former job-hopper who resides in Ohio with her husband and rescue dogs. She holds a degree in graphic design currently gathering dust in an impressive frame. When she’s not writing emotionally-charged stories, she spends her time drawing, drinking coffee, and laughing with friends. Her motto is Read for fun, and she believes we should all do more of what makes us happy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
March 11, 2015
5.5 left-me-smiling stars !
This book is the defination of fluffy ! LOL really sweet and fun book :)
Loved both Shane and Crickett..they made an adorable couple ♥
espically Shane ! loved his down-to-earth attitude and Crickett's no whining policy ! will definatly be reading more from this author and her Love in the balance.... series :)
This book is the defination of fluffy ! LOL really sweet and fun book :)
Loved both Shane and Crickett..they made an adorable couple ♥
espically Shane ! loved his down-to-earth attitude and Crickett's no whining policy ! will definatly be reading more from this author and her Love in the balance.... series :)
March 28, 2013
This book got on my nerves!
First of all, Shane first sees Crickitt in a bar, crying her eyes out. Sounds attractive right? Well Shane certainly thinks so. He's immediately drawn to her so because his buddy likes Crickitt's friend, he decides to be a good wingman and dry her tears while his friend does his pick up bit. Somehow through her tears, Crickitt comes off as someone who would be a good assistant so Shane offers her a job. Crickitt needs a job, but she thinks his offer is too good to be (seriously, crying in a bar and getting offered a job? It is too good to be true) so she turns him down. This makes Shane like her even more so he doesn't let up in his pursuit. Eventually Crickitt gives in.
Right from the get go these two are hot for each other. But Shane doesn't want to make the moves on an employee of his (he is freaking rich). And Crickitt doesn't want to make the moves on her boss. But the attraction is there. And that's where this reader had enough. Because it was CONSTANTLY shoved down my optic nerve how much these two wanted each other. They yearned, oh did they yearn. Honestly, I thought I was reading about two horny teenagers and not two adults. It was very annoying. And then eventually the loin-gates burst and they give into their lust. And then Shane pulls away...because of something from his past. Yawn. I haven't read that before.
There just wasn't enough here to keep me interested. It was not fun to read about the constant wanting. There needed to be something else between these two than that.
Tempting the Billionaire gets a rating of 1 out of 5 from me.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Ames.
First of all, Shane first sees Crickitt in a bar, crying her eyes out. Sounds attractive right? Well Shane certainly thinks so. He's immediately drawn to her so because his buddy likes Crickitt's friend, he decides to be a good wingman and dry her tears while his friend does his pick up bit. Somehow through her tears, Crickitt comes off as someone who would be a good assistant so Shane offers her a job. Crickitt needs a job, but she thinks his offer is too good to be (seriously, crying in a bar and getting offered a job? It is too good to be true) so she turns him down. This makes Shane like her even more so he doesn't let up in his pursuit. Eventually Crickitt gives in.
Right from the get go these two are hot for each other. But Shane doesn't want to make the moves on an employee of his (he is freaking rich). And Crickitt doesn't want to make the moves on her boss. But the attraction is there. And that's where this reader had enough. Because it was CONSTANTLY shoved down my optic nerve how much these two wanted each other. They yearned, oh did they yearn. Honestly, I thought I was reading about two horny teenagers and not two adults. It was very annoying. And then eventually the loin-gates burst and they give into their lust. And then Shane pulls away...because of something from his past. Yawn. I haven't read that before.
There just wasn't enough here to keep me interested. It was not fun to read about the constant wanting. There needed to be something else between these two than that.
Tempting the Billionaire gets a rating of 1 out of 5 from me.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Ames.
October 31, 2020
“I was thinking about what you said about how even though the set wasn’t perfect (...) it was still worth keeping. And I was hoping… (...) That might apply to me as well."
This was Jessica's first book and it's actually one of the last ones I'm reading, so I have plenty of experience with her writing style.... and with her billionaires too! And this one is yet another hit in my book.
"Like a moth to the flame…"
I really liked Shane. Yes, he's a billionaire but he didn't start out that way. He's also a hard worker, and he's worked for what he has. And he has a past that haunts him – there's nothing quite like guilt to make you feel undeserving, and he has plenty of that to go around. Even if the guilt is misplaced, which everyone realizes, but him.
"Seeing her felt like coming home."
Crickitt has her own past. She's been married to someone who was definitely not husband material, and she's done everything for him but it was still somehow not enough. She's been the perfect wife, and it still crumbled. Can you blame her for not being self-confident and putting herself out there, or for shutting her heart off before she can be hurt again? Or even for feeling like she was undeserving of real love?
Yeap, life has a way of making us feel that way alright.
This book is a journey, sometimes sweet and sometimes painful. I feel like this is the best way to describe it. It's a journey through the past of two people and how they (and we all) allow the past to affect the present.
"Where she was concerned, he’d made lots of exceptions. Around her he felt like a kite in the wind, helplessly tethered to her, following wherever she led."
There could only be a happily ever after once they realized no one's perfect, everyone has flaws and everyone has a past. They just needed to believe they deserved this good thing between them, and grabbed it with both hands.
Loved it.
This was Jessica's first book and it's actually one of the last ones I'm reading, so I have plenty of experience with her writing style.... and with her billionaires too! And this one is yet another hit in my book.
"Like a moth to the flame…"
I really liked Shane. Yes, he's a billionaire but he didn't start out that way. He's also a hard worker, and he's worked for what he has. And he has a past that haunts him – there's nothing quite like guilt to make you feel undeserving, and he has plenty of that to go around. Even if the guilt is misplaced, which everyone realizes, but him.
"Seeing her felt like coming home."
Crickitt has her own past. She's been married to someone who was definitely not husband material, and she's done everything for him but it was still somehow not enough. She's been the perfect wife, and it still crumbled. Can you blame her for not being self-confident and putting herself out there, or for shutting her heart off before she can be hurt again? Or even for feeling like she was undeserving of real love?
Yeap, life has a way of making us feel that way alright.
This book is a journey, sometimes sweet and sometimes painful. I feel like this is the best way to describe it. It's a journey through the past of two people and how they (and we all) allow the past to affect the present.
"Where she was concerned, he’d made lots of exceptions. Around her he felt like a kite in the wind, helplessly tethered to her, following wherever she led."
There could only be a happily ever after once they realized no one's perfect, everyone has flaws and everyone has a past. They just needed to believe they deserved this good thing between them, and grabbed it with both hands.
Loved it.
February 17, 2013
Tempting the Billionaire was escapist romance at its best. We all know that we're not going to bump into a billionaire who will, in the space of ten minutes, realize he has the perfect six-figure job for us. And in real life, even if that did happen he wouldn't be a hot, Greek god of a man--he'd be overweight because he doesn't have time to exercise while running his Fortune 500 company.
Oh, but to read about things we know will never happen is half the reason we pick up books in the first place! And if the characters read like real people--outside of the fantastic circumstances, of course--then we can escape our 40 hour a week doldrums for a few hours and pretend that you can actually arrange for a billionaire to hire you and then fall in love with you.
That's what happened when I read Tempting the Billionaire. A small part of my brain was aware that this would never happen, but that part made reading about it that much more enjoyable. Both Crickitt and Shane were real people, with problems and baggage of their own that had to be dealt with over the course of the book. And when Shane realized he loved her? That's the best moment in any romance novel, and this did not disappoint.
If you're looking to escape reality with a sweet, hot, romantic read, pick up Tempting the Billionaire.
Oh, but to read about things we know will never happen is half the reason we pick up books in the first place! And if the characters read like real people--outside of the fantastic circumstances, of course--then we can escape our 40 hour a week doldrums for a few hours and pretend that you can actually arrange for a billionaire to hire you and then fall in love with you.
That's what happened when I read Tempting the Billionaire. A small part of my brain was aware that this would never happen, but that part made reading about it that much more enjoyable. Both Crickitt and Shane were real people, with problems and baggage of their own that had to be dealt with over the course of the book. And when Shane realized he loved her? That's the best moment in any romance novel, and this did not disappoint.
If you're looking to escape reality with a sweet, hot, romantic read, pick up Tempting the Billionaire.
February 3, 2014
I enjoyed the journey of Shane and Crickett's romance. Jessica Lemmon is a terrific writer that draws you in to the emotional conflict.
I'd read in a blog that Henry Cavil was the author's inspiration for Shane, and so that's how I saw him throughout.
Pretty yummy!
I'd read in a blog that Henry Cavil was the author's inspiration for Shane, and so that's how I saw him throughout.
Pretty yummy!
January 8, 2013
At first glance, this sounds like your typical romance novel – hot not-so-rich girl manages to crack through the tough veneer of the hot, oh-so-rich guy. But a few pages in, you’ll find Jessica Lemmon’s debut novel, Tempting the Billioniare, isn’t typical at all. Hero Shane August is hot and rich, but he’s not the kind of tough, cold, aggressive alpha male that tends to define the genre. Instead, he’s a big ol’ softie who bakes his own cookies, leaves a month’s rent as a tip for a breakfast bill, and has strong ties to his relatives despite a pretty horrible family tragedy.
I was in love with Shane by the second chapter.
Crickitt Day, the hot, not-so-rich girl who snares Shane’s heart, is sexy without knowing it. She’s a sweet girl dumped by her ex-husband and trying to find her confidence again and Shane comes to the rescue by offering her a job.
There’s just one problem – his pesky uncontrollable attraction to her. And that’s really the only typical part of this story – it is a romance, after all, so has to fit the genre. What I loved most about Jessica’s characters is that Shane has a soft side he is totally not afraid to expose. Is there anything sexier? I wasn’t all that fond of Crickitt’s name but once I got sucked into the story, I found that it just sort of fits her. One of my favorite things is the liberal sprinkling of humor throughout the story, little one-liners that made me chuckle and let me catch my breath after so much sexual tension. “Moron, party of one” or “his hormones lined up to do the conga” and this one, so subtle but potent. “a smile… that had her thankful for the sturdiness of the door frame.”
The flirting is delicious and the conflicts that keep them apart are real and believable without being melodramatic. There’s also a compelling side plot that left me wanting more. Overall, I’d give this story 4 out of 5 chocolate chip cookies, especially if Shane bakes them himself.
*swoons*
I was in love with Shane by the second chapter.
Crickitt Day, the hot, not-so-rich girl who snares Shane’s heart, is sexy without knowing it. She’s a sweet girl dumped by her ex-husband and trying to find her confidence again and Shane comes to the rescue by offering her a job.
There’s just one problem – his pesky uncontrollable attraction to her. And that’s really the only typical part of this story – it is a romance, after all, so has to fit the genre. What I loved most about Jessica’s characters is that Shane has a soft side he is totally not afraid to expose. Is there anything sexier? I wasn’t all that fond of Crickitt’s name but once I got sucked into the story, I found that it just sort of fits her. One of my favorite things is the liberal sprinkling of humor throughout the story, little one-liners that made me chuckle and let me catch my breath after so much sexual tension. “Moron, party of one” or “his hormones lined up to do the conga” and this one, so subtle but potent. “a smile… that had her thankful for the sturdiness of the door frame.”
The flirting is delicious and the conflicts that keep them apart are real and believable without being melodramatic. There’s also a compelling side plot that left me wanting more. Overall, I’d give this story 4 out of 5 chocolate chip cookies, especially if Shane bakes them himself.
*swoons*
February 16, 2013
'This isn't typically how I find employees, but' -- he shrugged -- 'I need a personal assistant. And someone with your background and experience is hard to come by.'
Crickitt is no stranger to heartache. After nearly a decade of marriage, her husband declared that he no longer found her lovable or desirable, leaving her heartbroken and confused about herself and her future. That one night, when she was crying at the bar, she never expected to be approached by the tall, mysterious stranger. When he asked how he could help, she muttered that he could give her a good job with a steady income. How was she to know that he could do that very thing?
You're the most grounded billionaire I ever met...
Shane owns his own business and he has more money than he could ever need in his entire lifetime. When he sees the beautiful woman crying at the bar, he feels inclined to lend a helping hand. He makes a living helping others do business, and he desperately needs an intelligent, entrepreneurial assistant to help him manage his clients. After a few minutes of conversation, he could tell that Crickitt was exactly what he needed.
Despite his bountiful bank account, Shane has never had the rugged self-confidence that others would expect him to portray. Even in his adulthood, he is plagued by a misery from his youth that he can never escape. He has established a very clear set of rules for himself. He will never fall in love or get married, he will never let himself rely on another person, and he will always make sure he does whatever is necessary to ensure he has more money than he could ever spend.
Let me know if you want to revisit that agreement.
Shane can't stop thinking about Crickitt. And, Crickitt can't stop imagining each and every wonderful thing about Shane. But, the duo vows to keep their relationship entirely professional. There is absolutely no room in the workplace for anything romantic or sexual at all. Plus, Shane knows that he can never provide what Crickitt expects from a man.
How about a date with a devastatingly charming billionaire? Don't mind if I do....
I was actually really pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel. Initially, I decided to read it, I admit, because I thought the cover was fabulous -- although, I can't deny that I was halfway expecting another of the grunting alpha-male heroes who woos the dumb, desperate female with whips and chains.
But, I genuinely enjoyed both characters and was pleased to see that both defied all of my expectations and preconceived notions. Shane was adorable, sweet, thoughtful, chivalrous, troubled, frightened, and conflicted. Crickitt was intelligent, driven, heartbroken, resourceful, considerate, and confused. Both felt real and relatable, keeping me more interested and invested in their relationship.
I was also surprised to find myself curious about the outcome of some of the side characters --- so, I was super excited to see that there will be another story in the future that will feature them more predominately! I will most definitely read the next in this series when it comes out.
So, if you are interested in a loveable romance about two troubled souls who overcome the odds to find their own happily ever after, I would definitely recommend that you give TEMPTING THE BILLIONAIRE a try. It was definitely a great Valentine's Day read, for sure!
I was provided an e-galley copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. I have actually already purchased my own copy of this book for my Kindle, though, which I hope speaks for the honesty of my review!
Crickitt is no stranger to heartache. After nearly a decade of marriage, her husband declared that he no longer found her lovable or desirable, leaving her heartbroken and confused about herself and her future. That one night, when she was crying at the bar, she never expected to be approached by the tall, mysterious stranger. When he asked how he could help, she muttered that he could give her a good job with a steady income. How was she to know that he could do that very thing?
You're the most grounded billionaire I ever met...
Shane owns his own business and he has more money than he could ever need in his entire lifetime. When he sees the beautiful woman crying at the bar, he feels inclined to lend a helping hand. He makes a living helping others do business, and he desperately needs an intelligent, entrepreneurial assistant to help him manage his clients. After a few minutes of conversation, he could tell that Crickitt was exactly what he needed.
Despite his bountiful bank account, Shane has never had the rugged self-confidence that others would expect him to portray. Even in his adulthood, he is plagued by a misery from his youth that he can never escape. He has established a very clear set of rules for himself. He will never fall in love or get married, he will never let himself rely on another person, and he will always make sure he does whatever is necessary to ensure he has more money than he could ever spend.
Let me know if you want to revisit that agreement.
Shane can't stop thinking about Crickitt. And, Crickitt can't stop imagining each and every wonderful thing about Shane. But, the duo vows to keep their relationship entirely professional. There is absolutely no room in the workplace for anything romantic or sexual at all. Plus, Shane knows that he can never provide what Crickitt expects from a man.
How about a date with a devastatingly charming billionaire? Don't mind if I do....
I was actually really pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel. Initially, I decided to read it, I admit, because I thought the cover was fabulous -- although, I can't deny that I was halfway expecting another of the grunting alpha-male heroes who woos the dumb, desperate female with whips and chains.
But, I genuinely enjoyed both characters and was pleased to see that both defied all of my expectations and preconceived notions. Shane was adorable, sweet, thoughtful, chivalrous, troubled, frightened, and conflicted. Crickitt was intelligent, driven, heartbroken, resourceful, considerate, and confused. Both felt real and relatable, keeping me more interested and invested in their relationship.
I was also surprised to find myself curious about the outcome of some of the side characters --- so, I was super excited to see that there will be another story in the future that will feature them more predominately! I will most definitely read the next in this series when it comes out.
So, if you are interested in a loveable romance about two troubled souls who overcome the odds to find their own happily ever after, I would definitely recommend that you give TEMPTING THE BILLIONAIRE a try. It was definitely a great Valentine's Day read, for sure!
I was provided an e-galley copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. I have actually already purchased my own copy of this book for my Kindle, though, which I hope speaks for the honesty of my review!
September 14, 2013
Oh man. That was one hell of a painful read. So many pages with clunky sentences riddled with over the top metaphors.
I don't know. Maybe I am a cynic but if I am at a club/bar/what-have-you and I am a man and there's a girl at a bar crying her eyes out, I wouldn't think of her as a prime target for seduction or anything other than a tissue.
This book is boring as hell. Nothing happens. There is no discernible conflict other than they both know that they want each other but they shouldn't be together because he's her boss and an array of different clichés I just can't bring myself to care about. They both act like jealous teenagers throughout the book yet they never make a conscious, adult decision to hook up and keep it under wraps if they don't want the office to find out. They dance around their obvious attraction, visibly salivating over each other and their edible scents but never doing anything other than stare longingly. I swear, I don't understand how Shane is a billionaire businessman if he lacks so much gumption to just.make.a.move.
The sex scenes were lackluster. It peeved me beyond belief that I did not know where this book was taking place until 50% in. Is it that hard to work in Ohio at some point in the beginning?
Shane is insufferable and indecisive and Crickitt is a doormat doubling as a crybaby. All she did was chase Shane and then be upset when he fumbled over and over due to his commitment issues. Another problem I had was that Shane never really opens up in the book and when he does, we are told he did. And no offense, but if I were Crickitt I would've told him a thing or two when he went from cuddly puppy to tyrant in the blink of an eye, treating Crickitt like crap in the process. And the fact that he assumed she had slept with her ex-husband and then proceeded to treat her like crap without even asking what the hell was up? Come on now. That was some seriously passive aggressive bullshit.
Dude seriously. Get professional help and get over that grief/guilt.
1.5/5 stars.
I don't know. Maybe I am a cynic but if I am at a club/bar/what-have-you and I am a man and there's a girl at a bar crying her eyes out, I wouldn't think of her as a prime target for seduction or anything other than a tissue.
This book is boring as hell. Nothing happens. There is no discernible conflict other than they both know that they want each other but they shouldn't be together because he's her boss and an array of different clichés I just can't bring myself to care about. They both act like jealous teenagers throughout the book yet they never make a conscious, adult decision to hook up and keep it under wraps if they don't want the office to find out. They dance around their obvious attraction, visibly salivating over each other and their edible scents but never doing anything other than stare longingly. I swear, I don't understand how Shane is a billionaire businessman if he lacks so much gumption to just.make.a.move.
The sex scenes were lackluster. It peeved me beyond belief that I did not know where this book was taking place until 50% in. Is it that hard to work in Ohio at some point in the beginning?
Shane is insufferable and indecisive and Crickitt is a doormat doubling as a crybaby. All she did was chase Shane and then be upset when he fumbled over and over due to his commitment issues. Another problem I had was that Shane never really opens up in the book and when he does, we are told he did. And no offense, but if I were Crickitt I would've told him a thing or two when he went from cuddly puppy to tyrant in the blink of an eye, treating Crickitt like crap in the process. And the fact that he assumed she had slept with her ex-husband and then proceeded to treat her like crap without even asking what the hell was up? Come on now. That was some seriously passive aggressive bullshit.
Dude seriously. Get professional help and get over that grief/guilt.
1.5/5 stars.
January 18, 2014
if you like Christian Grey or Gideon Cross prepare yourself for Shane August. Great book!!! super cute. No BDSM or weird stuff. very romantic and sweet. I really enjoyed this book. moving onto book 2 now!
February 2, 2013
Originally posted on What I'm Reading
Yesterday I finished Tempting the Billionaire by Jessica Lemmon. First off, I probably could have finished this book in a day, but alas life always get the better of me at times. Seriously, I really wanted to sit down and finished the book. I mean I loved the story. Here's why:
We meet Shane August, who happens to be a hot billionaire. Who wouldn't want to meet him? However, he tends to put up a wall when it comes to women. It's always best to be prepared for anything, especially for the worst. Which is a great motto to live by. However, his wall starts to crumble when he meets Crickett Day.
Crickett is not your typical woman. She kind of lost her confidence when her marriage ended. Slowly rebuilding her life, she gets an opportunity to work for Shane August. Lucky girl! However, the more she gets to know him as a person the harder it becomes to protect her heart from him.
Oh my gosh, loved this book. I couldn't put it down, and would tell myself "one chapter and I will clean my house." Then I would finished the one chapter and go "oh one more." Then I would realize I really need to get some stuff done, so I get a read later. Yes, life was a little inconvenient when it came to this book. However, I finished Tempting the Billionaire and feeling satisfied that I read this story. Shane and Crickett's relationship was rocky to say the least. It made me laugh how Shane would try to put parameters around their relationship and at the same time trying to break them. I guess he wanted to have his cake and eat it too.
At times he would hurt Crickett, and just wanted to beat him up for Crickett. I know that he was trying and he had issues to work on. However, Shane did have a really big heart, he was just a little misguided at times. He really did try his best. However, I really LOVED the ending and I'm anxious to read more from Jessica Lemmon. Yes, a satisfying read. I hope you all get a chance to read about this hot billionaire with a heart of gold. See you all later.
Copy provide by Forever Romance through NetGalley
Yesterday I finished Tempting the Billionaire by Jessica Lemmon. First off, I probably could have finished this book in a day, but alas life always get the better of me at times. Seriously, I really wanted to sit down and finished the book. I mean I loved the story. Here's why:
We meet Shane August, who happens to be a hot billionaire. Who wouldn't want to meet him? However, he tends to put up a wall when it comes to women. It's always best to be prepared for anything, especially for the worst. Which is a great motto to live by. However, his wall starts to crumble when he meets Crickett Day.
Crickett is not your typical woman. She kind of lost her confidence when her marriage ended. Slowly rebuilding her life, she gets an opportunity to work for Shane August. Lucky girl! However, the more she gets to know him as a person the harder it becomes to protect her heart from him.
Oh my gosh, loved this book. I couldn't put it down, and would tell myself "one chapter and I will clean my house." Then I would finished the one chapter and go "oh one more." Then I would realize I really need to get some stuff done, so I get a read later. Yes, life was a little inconvenient when it came to this book. However, I finished Tempting the Billionaire and feeling satisfied that I read this story. Shane and Crickett's relationship was rocky to say the least. It made me laugh how Shane would try to put parameters around their relationship and at the same time trying to break them. I guess he wanted to have his cake and eat it too.
At times he would hurt Crickett, and just wanted to beat him up for Crickett. I know that he was trying and he had issues to work on. However, Shane did have a really big heart, he was just a little misguided at times. He really did try his best. However, I really LOVED the ending and I'm anxious to read more from Jessica Lemmon. Yes, a satisfying read. I hope you all get a chance to read about this hot billionaire with a heart of gold. See you all later.
Copy provide by Forever Romance through NetGalley
March 19, 2013
I really liked how the story started. The first chapter sucked me in. I continued to enjoy the story, but then toward the end it lost me and I love these stories.
My problem and this is a problem I have with all books that do this. I really liked Shane. I loved that he was rich and successive, but yet he was modest and very generous not only to Cricket but to others. However, the ending where he kept running from Cricket claiming that he needed to work out his issues. When he ran, I hated how Cricket accepted this behavior. I hate when the girl continues to “run” after the guy. I love when the guy does the chasing and the groveling.
Did I skim? No. The writing was very good.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Yes or I would not get so upset how he was running and making Crickett feel.
Did I want to back to the book when I had to stop reading? In the beginning yes, but later I was getting frustrated with the story.
Positives: I loved that this story was not insta-love. There is an immediate attraction but the sex was not on their first date.
Negatives: I felt like towards the end, Lance was not acting like a “man”. Deal with your issues and don’t go running everything something happens. His “running away” became redundant.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
My problem and this is a problem I have with all books that do this. I really liked Shane. I loved that he was rich and successive, but yet he was modest and very generous not only to Cricket but to others. However, the ending where he kept running from Cricket claiming that he needed to work out his issues. When he ran, I hated how Cricket accepted this behavior. I hate when the girl continues to “run” after the guy. I love when the guy does the chasing and the groveling.
Did I skim? No. The writing was very good.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Yes or I would not get so upset how he was running and making Crickett feel.
Did I want to back to the book when I had to stop reading? In the beginning yes, but later I was getting frustrated with the story.
Positives: I loved that this story was not insta-love. There is an immediate attraction but the sex was not on their first date.
Negatives: I felt like towards the end, Lance was not acting like a “man”. Deal with your issues and don’t go running everything something happens. His “running away” became redundant.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
December 26, 2012
NetGalley free read....
I liked it. Thought it was cute, but I had issues with the character's issues. I sort of understand that Shane's family life was problematic, which caused his issues with commitment. But why include his extended family if they aren't there to acknowledge that his upbringing was screwy and to be there to reaffirm that he's not alone. His interaction with his family was awkward and clunky.
As for Crickette (horrible name), she was just a doormat. He kept pushing and pulling. She should have gotten a backbone sooner. The fact that he 'almost died' in a plane crash is the only thing that makes him realize he's in love with her? I would have been offended.
I still don't understand why he was shaking when he hugged her the night she was crying after her ex-husband was terrible to her. And why would she go to dinner with him after he said those nasty things to her. I would have laughed in his face when he said he loved her after saying she was bad and sex and he loved her like a sister. Doormat!
What in what Shane said to her made her identify with the idea that he thought he wasn't good enough for her? He had a nice family that she'd met and he was a successful billionaire. Why wouldn't he be enough? Makes no sense.
I liked it. Thought it was cute, but I had issues with the character's issues. I sort of understand that Shane's family life was problematic, which caused his issues with commitment. But why include his extended family if they aren't there to acknowledge that his upbringing was screwy and to be there to reaffirm that he's not alone. His interaction with his family was awkward and clunky.
As for Crickette (horrible name), she was just a doormat. He kept pushing and pulling. She should have gotten a backbone sooner. The fact that he 'almost died' in a plane crash is the only thing that makes him realize he's in love with her? I would have been offended.
I still don't understand why he was shaking when he hugged her the night she was crying after her ex-husband was terrible to her. And why would she go to dinner with him after he said those nasty things to her. I would have laughed in his face when he said he loved her after saying she was bad and sex and he loved her like a sister. Doormat!
What in what Shane said to her made her identify with the idea that he thought he wasn't good enough for her? He had a nice family that she'd met and he was a successful billionaire. Why wouldn't he be enough? Makes no sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2013
Eh - this one was just ok. The beginning is cute but I lost interest in the second half. The billionaire hero doesn't really come across as a billionaire to me. He could have easily been a millionaire ;)
March 7, 2017
I was close to giving it 5 stars, but the ending was a bit eh for me. Shane started to annoy me and
February 26, 2013
Notes: I read the eARC of this book and will need to verify quotes against the final version.
My Synopsis:
“I think I’m doing this all wrong. To tell the truth, I saw you crying and I wondered if I could do anything to help. If you’ll let me.”
“She turned to him, her eyes softening into what might have been gratitude, before a harder glint returned. Tossing her head, she met his eye. “Help? Sure. Know anyone who’d like to hire a previously self-employed person for a position for which she has little to no experience?”
He had to smile at her pluck…and his good fortune. Crickitt’s problem may be one he could help with after all. ”Depends,” he answered, watching her eyebrows give the slightest lift. He leaned an elbow on the bar, “In what salary range?”
Shane August has a “night in shining armor” complex. When he sees someone, particularly a woman, in need he can’t help but help them. What he doesn’t realize, however, is that he needs someone to save him, and he has just met the perfect person for the job.
My Thoughts:
This started off as such a cute and lighthearted story in the beginning. Guy meets girl. Guy saves girl, in a manner of speaking, but as we get about half way into the book we realize Shane has got some serious baggage he's carrying around. We learn up front that his father blamed him for his mother's death, but we don't get the details of what transpired until later in the story. The events which happened all those years ago have shaped, haunted and followed him. They have also prevented him from becoming seriously involved with anyone. While I'm a big fan of the love conquers all theme, the behavior displayed by Shane was a tad severe. Enough so, that I think a psychiatrist should have been involved.
Crickitt is divorced and has decided that with her newly found freedom, she'll reinvent herself. While I can understand the need to reinvent yourself, I was a little shocked she'd just totally abandon a lucrative career where she was making upwards of 6 figures. Alas, I've seen what divorce can do to a person, so I could honestly see someone doing this. She's actually a pretty level headed, upbeat type of person when her ex doesn't come around to play mind games with her. She's ready and willing to start a new life, but whereas Shane's hindrance is all mentally created, Crikitt's seems to be created by her ex who doesn't seem to truly know if he wants her back or not. Luckily, Crickitt has no wish to go down that path again, but when you've cared for someone for 9 years of your life, it's difficult to just shut them off cold turkey. Sometimes, however, there's nothing salvageable and you really should.
One of the things I really liked about the book was how the author used a set of Crickitt's nick knacks to sum up/symbolize Crickitt, Shane, and their relationship at different points in the book. Toward the beginning, Shane notices the incomplete set of the 'See No Evil, Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil' monkeys Crickitt has collected and wonders why she doesn't just get a new complete set. Crickitt states, "They're not worthless because they're incomplete." That kind of sums up Crickitt's and Shane's relationship when they first start dating. They're not complete as a couple they're missing something critical, but the relationship is worth the effort to find that missing something. It also sums up both their beliefs on relationships. Whereas Crickitt is the type who'll do all she can to make something work, Shane doesn't yet see the value in it. Later, as the missing monkey is found, we see once again the set of nick knacks symbolizes the couple's relationship. It still might not be perfect, but it has value and is worth keeping. I think that's true about most relationships. They're not always perfect, but if you're willing to invest yourself in it, and work at it, it can get pretty darn close. This also shows a marked change in Shane's thinking which I enjoyed.
Overall, I gave this one 3 out of 5 roses. I liked the author's writing style, and her use of symbolism. I enjoyed the story, but felt Shane had some issues that required a little counseling which I would have liked to have seen addressed in the book. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.
While not an exact copy of the ones Crickett had, I couldn't resist posting this trio:
My Synopsis:
“I think I’m doing this all wrong. To tell the truth, I saw you crying and I wondered if I could do anything to help. If you’ll let me.”
“She turned to him, her eyes softening into what might have been gratitude, before a harder glint returned. Tossing her head, she met his eye. “Help? Sure. Know anyone who’d like to hire a previously self-employed person for a position for which she has little to no experience?”
He had to smile at her pluck…and his good fortune. Crickitt’s problem may be one he could help with after all. ”Depends,” he answered, watching her eyebrows give the slightest lift. He leaned an elbow on the bar, “In what salary range?”
Shane August has a “night in shining armor” complex. When he sees someone, particularly a woman, in need he can’t help but help them. What he doesn’t realize, however, is that he needs someone to save him, and he has just met the perfect person for the job.
My Thoughts:
This started off as such a cute and lighthearted story in the beginning. Guy meets girl. Guy saves girl, in a manner of speaking, but as we get about half way into the book we realize Shane has got some serious baggage he's carrying around. We learn up front that his father blamed him for his mother's death, but we don't get the details of what transpired until later in the story. The events which happened all those years ago have shaped, haunted and followed him. They have also prevented him from becoming seriously involved with anyone. While I'm a big fan of the love conquers all theme, the behavior displayed by Shane was a tad severe. Enough so, that I think a psychiatrist should have been involved.
Crickitt is divorced and has decided that with her newly found freedom, she'll reinvent herself. While I can understand the need to reinvent yourself, I was a little shocked she'd just totally abandon a lucrative career where she was making upwards of 6 figures. Alas, I've seen what divorce can do to a person, so I could honestly see someone doing this. She's actually a pretty level headed, upbeat type of person when her ex doesn't come around to play mind games with her. She's ready and willing to start a new life, but whereas Shane's hindrance is all mentally created, Crikitt's seems to be created by her ex who doesn't seem to truly know if he wants her back or not. Luckily, Crickitt has no wish to go down that path again, but when you've cared for someone for 9 years of your life, it's difficult to just shut them off cold turkey. Sometimes, however, there's nothing salvageable and you really should.
One of the things I really liked about the book was how the author used a set of Crickitt's nick knacks to sum up/symbolize Crickitt, Shane, and their relationship at different points in the book. Toward the beginning, Shane notices the incomplete set of the 'See No Evil, Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil' monkeys Crickitt has collected and wonders why she doesn't just get a new complete set. Crickitt states, "They're not worthless because they're incomplete." That kind of sums up Crickitt's and Shane's relationship when they first start dating. They're not complete as a couple they're missing something critical, but the relationship is worth the effort to find that missing something. It also sums up both their beliefs on relationships. Whereas Crickitt is the type who'll do all she can to make something work, Shane doesn't yet see the value in it. Later, as the missing monkey is found, we see once again the set of nick knacks symbolizes the couple's relationship. It still might not be perfect, but it has value and is worth keeping. I think that's true about most relationships. They're not always perfect, but if you're willing to invest yourself in it, and work at it, it can get pretty darn close. This also shows a marked change in Shane's thinking which I enjoyed.
Overall, I gave this one 3 out of 5 roses. I liked the author's writing style, and her use of symbolism. I enjoyed the story, but felt Shane had some issues that required a little counseling which I would have liked to have seen addressed in the book. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.
While not an exact copy of the ones Crickett had, I couldn't resist posting this trio:
August 9, 2014
Tempting the Billionaire is one of the sweetest reads that I've come across this year.
The story isn't something entirely new or novel but as I said..it's sweet.
This book is simply about two people meeting on chance and then somehow they bond together almost instantly.
Their bond grows stronger and so do their feelings.
But since both of them are fighting some demons in their lives.. they resist it.
And in the end..they succumb to it and have a happily ever after.
That's it. Sweet and simple.
The situations put in by the author are nothing exaggerated or stretched out that might irritate a reader.
There are small teeny tiny misunderstandings present throughout the book which are sweet to read and makes the book interesting and cherishable.
Also..one of the things that I liked a lot about this particular book was that the characters were not in the habit of lying to each other or avoiding the truth or rather practicing and honing their evasive skills a lot.
Things happened, they talked to each other and got the hell over it. They didn't lock it up inside them which would have potentially ruined the book.
Coming to the characters.. I loved both Shane and Crickitt.
They were both amazing characters and easily lovable.
Crickitt was an easy going woman. Not up for a lot of melodrama. Was straight up and honest throughout the book and had a genuine and sincere character.
She was lovable because even though she was soft but she had a strong character and if she knew one thing then she stuck to it.
Shane was one of the best characters I've read. And maybe one of the best billionaires as well. He's sweet, charming, down to earth and sincere. He has a genuine charisma about him and you can't help but love him.
Some might think that his torment was stretched a bit too long but I'm of the opinion that it was necessary to show the transition that was there in him by the end. You could feel what he was going through and one cannot expect someone to come out of something like that very easily.
So I commend the author for handling this really well.
Hoping for a few other good reads in the future.. I'd say to give this one a try if it sounds appealing enough.
The story isn't something entirely new or novel but as I said..it's sweet.
This book is simply about two people meeting on chance and then somehow they bond together almost instantly.
Their bond grows stronger and so do their feelings.
But since both of them are fighting some demons in their lives.. they resist it.
And in the end..they succumb to it and have a happily ever after.
That's it. Sweet and simple.
The situations put in by the author are nothing exaggerated or stretched out that might irritate a reader.
There are small teeny tiny misunderstandings present throughout the book which are sweet to read and makes the book interesting and cherishable.
Also..one of the things that I liked a lot about this particular book was that the characters were not in the habit of lying to each other or avoiding the truth or rather practicing and honing their evasive skills a lot.
Things happened, they talked to each other and got the hell over it. They didn't lock it up inside them which would have potentially ruined the book.
Coming to the characters.. I loved both Shane and Crickitt.
They were both amazing characters and easily lovable.
Crickitt was an easy going woman. Not up for a lot of melodrama. Was straight up and honest throughout the book and had a genuine and sincere character.
She was lovable because even though she was soft but she had a strong character and if she knew one thing then she stuck to it.
Shane was one of the best characters I've read. And maybe one of the best billionaires as well. He's sweet, charming, down to earth and sincere. He has a genuine charisma about him and you can't help but love him.
Some might think that his torment was stretched a bit too long but I'm of the opinion that it was necessary to show the transition that was there in him by the end. You could feel what he was going through and one cannot expect someone to come out of something like that very easily.
So I commend the author for handling this really well.
Hoping for a few other good reads in the future.. I'd say to give this one a try if it sounds appealing enough.
February 1, 2013
Leave your assumptions at the Lamborghini when you pick up Tempting the Billionaire. It’s tempting to assume that any billionaire in a romance will be domineering verging on autocratic with even a little slippage into dictatorial but Shane August is a team player. Perhaps it’s the nature of August Industries, a company that partners with budding entrepreneurs to ensure that they succeed instead of fail. It’s worth noting that the failure rate of new companies in their first year ranges between 33 to 50%.
Lemmon plays against trope expectations over and over again. We are introduced to Crickitt and Shane at a bar. Crickitt is crying into her drink and Shane plays rescuer in chief. We know how this ends up, don’t we? Comfort turns to caress turns to chemistry and then the couple burns up the sheets. But this billionaire actually listens to the woebegone gal’s tale of woe and invites her in for a job interview … Monday morning, not Saturday night.
Not surprisingly, Crickitt gets the job as assistant to the CEO of August Industries but again, Lemmon surprises the reader. Crickitt is effective and competent in a low-key capable way. Shane is focused and hard-working but no prima donna – when his chauffeur picks her up, it’s the boss who remembers to stop and get Crickitt her personalized coffee beverage. Rest assured that this couple does find their way to their Happily Ever After but it was negotiated and discussed and savored from start to finish. I liked that.
It’s because I was continually presented with conversations that were deeper and more thoughtful and revelatory than I expected, as well as seeing a couple getting to know each other as people first and romantic partners second, that I really enjoyed Tempting the Billionaire. If there was a drawback, it was perhaps that the billionaire label didn’t seem all that necessary – but that’s a minor quibble in a very enjoyable book. I’ll be keeping a look out for Jessica Lemmon’s next book.
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lemmon plays against trope expectations over and over again. We are introduced to Crickitt and Shane at a bar. Crickitt is crying into her drink and Shane plays rescuer in chief. We know how this ends up, don’t we? Comfort turns to caress turns to chemistry and then the couple burns up the sheets. But this billionaire actually listens to the woebegone gal’s tale of woe and invites her in for a job interview … Monday morning, not Saturday night.
Not surprisingly, Crickitt gets the job as assistant to the CEO of August Industries but again, Lemmon surprises the reader. Crickitt is effective and competent in a low-key capable way. Shane is focused and hard-working but no prima donna – when his chauffeur picks her up, it’s the boss who remembers to stop and get Crickitt her personalized coffee beverage. Rest assured that this couple does find their way to their Happily Ever After but it was negotiated and discussed and savored from start to finish. I liked that.
It’s because I was continually presented with conversations that were deeper and more thoughtful and revelatory than I expected, as well as seeing a couple getting to know each other as people first and romantic partners second, that I really enjoyed Tempting the Billionaire. If there was a drawback, it was perhaps that the billionaire label didn’t seem all that necessary – but that’s a minor quibble in a very enjoyable book. I’ll be keeping a look out for Jessica Lemmon’s next book.
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2013
This is a great debut from Jessica. I expected going in to find the typical billionaire with a houseful of servants, maybe he'd buy the heroine a car or two, but no... Nothing more than a driver because Shane is so down to Earth.
I have to disagree with the comments saying Crickett is a doormat. She was intelligent enough to realize anything going on with Shane was personal and deep and had nothing to do with her. Only the strongest woman can wait a man out like that. It took a lot of bravery for her to keep her job and simply be there for him, even if it was just in a work capacity. A weaker woman would have quit. Hell, I would have.
Past all the seriousness, you will laugh and smile despite yourself. A really enjoyable read.
I have to disagree with the comments saying Crickett is a doormat. She was intelligent enough to realize anything going on with Shane was personal and deep and had nothing to do with her. Only the strongest woman can wait a man out like that. It took a lot of bravery for her to keep her job and simply be there for him, even if it was just in a work capacity. A weaker woman would have quit. Hell, I would have.
Past all the seriousness, you will laugh and smile despite yourself. A really enjoyable read.
January 25, 2013
Cute, funny, romantic...I could go on. This is such a fun book with great, rounded characters who should be getting it on a lot sooner than they do. That's the only complaint I can come up with, so I guess we're all good. Tortured hero, Shane has wads of cash, but he ain't one of your usual billionaire a**holes. He overtips his waitress - I mean, seriously overtips her - he bakes cookies, he plans romantic picnics (after the seriously long walk he puts her heroine through, he just about manages to redeem himself with the picnic-by-the-waterfall/baked treats set up. Shane, you did good). Can't wait for Aiden and Sadie's story.
July 28, 2015
A brilliantly written book with extremely adorable characters; though I felt it was missing a certain touch of unique-ness. I felt like I'd read it in some areas. I'd still absolutely recommend this book to those that are a fan of the genre and are in the market for a quick, fun, interesting read. I loved the characters, particularly the leading male!
Despite the fault, I still LOVED reading this! I would 100% rec, particularly if you're new to the genre!
Full review to come!
Despite the fault, I still LOVED reading this! I would 100% rec, particularly if you're new to the genre!
Full review to come!
March 19, 2013
While this story has a typical storyline of boss/employee forbidden love and one with a family history holding them back from having a relationship, writer did a good job not being too predictable in getting to the assumed ending. Characters had a good dynamic and I was kept interested page to page. Not a lot of steaminess, more of a classic story well written and an enjoyable light read.
March 1, 2013
Crickitt is a relatable character and Shane is sweet as the chocolate in his homemade cookies. I found myself rooting for them to work as much as Crickett. Plenty of LOL moments. Can't wait for Jessica Lemmon's next book!
January 9, 2013
This book was so much fun! I love Jessica's voice and found myself smiling throughout the story. Looking forward to the next in this series!
January 14, 2021
At first I found it difficult to get into the story. Further into the book I found myself getting more and more into the story. It contains a little more in-depth conversations versus other books by the same author. The story was slightly different from other books which made it fun reading
June 20, 2020
Didn't hate it. Read it in a day. My first go at romance.
June 14, 2015
The romance genre is oversaturated with billionaire plots and even though I had my doubts, Jessica Lemmon's Tempting the Billionaire was a pleasant surprise.
Crickitt Day is down on her luck and needs a job. Hoping to chase the blues away she agrees to a night out with her best friend Sadie. While at the bar Crickitt breaks down into tears as she takes stock of her life and what she's lost. Across from Crickitt is Shane August and his cousin Aiden. Shane reluctantly agrees to go out with Aiden to help him get back into the dating scene. Aiden quickly zeroes in on Crickitt and seeing her tears assumes she'll be easy to seduce; however, Shane takes one look at Crickitt and his heart stops. He's interested in her and convinces Aiden that Crickitt's friend is where his interest lies. When Shane begins to talk to Crickitt, she confesses she needs a job and acting on impulse he hands her his business card. She's hesitant about the job interview and in fact turns down his offer, but reconsiders when he interviews her a second time. Both are clearly attracted to each other and Shane tries to set up guidelines of how to go about their relationship, but Crickitt doesn't want what he's offering. Realizing he can't give her what she wants, they both agree to maintain a professional relationship. When Crickitt's ex-husband calls her, Shane believes she's gone back to him and what ensues is a beautiful story about a man and a woman realizing what true love is.
What I really liked about Tempting the Billionaire is the fact Shane is normal. He wears cargo pants and isn't flashing his cash telling the whole world "oh look at me! I'm filthy rich!" When he does, it's to help people who need it. He's also not going around showing up where Crickitt is or demanding to know her whereabouts. Nor is he showering her with endless gifts. He's not interested in buying her love, but rather he's more interested in getting to know her. Shane does have some issues that are rooted in his past as a child. It's easy to understand his reluctance at falling in love because he witnessed firsthand what it did to his father and he wants to spare his children the heartache he experienced. The scene in which he realizes he can't live without Crickitt was the best. It's also refreshing to read a book where the two protagonists are aware of their sexual attraction and have an adult conversation about what to do about it.
Some people think Crickitt is a doormat but I disagree. You have to take into account her past. Most people enter relationships with some baggage and what she has is normal for a woman who is divorced. Remember she's only known one man and spent the past eleven years catering to him. Besides she's perfectly able to stand up for herself and knows what she wants. When Shane takes off to distance himself from her, she had one of two of options. The first was to continue to work for him as his personal assistant or quit and leave him hanging. Instead she took the initiative and became the face of August Industries when Shane didn't care.
Lemmon's characters are believable and flawed. Her writing is engaging and witty. If I had been reading this book out in public, everyone would have seen the HUGE grin on my face. I had so much fun reading this and adore it immensely.
Some of my favorite quotes:
Women may throw themselves at you like live grenades, but the rest of us commoners have to come out of the trenches and hunt.
She looked at it a beat before taking it. "Crickitt."
"Like the bug?" He flinched. Smooth.
Her mother pulled her to one side. "You stay as long as he needs you, you hear?"
Pimped out by my own parents. "Yes, Mother."
I'm not ashamed to say I read this book in a day. I kept insisting I would only read one more chapter and just kept going. If you're looking for a book with lots of sexual tension that will make your heart beat, this is the book for you. Heck if you're just looking for a good fleshed out romance this is your book. There's a side romance between Sadie and Aiden and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2, Hard to Handle.
Review originally posted at Literary, etc.
Crickitt Day is down on her luck and needs a job. Hoping to chase the blues away she agrees to a night out with her best friend Sadie. While at the bar Crickitt breaks down into tears as she takes stock of her life and what she's lost. Across from Crickitt is Shane August and his cousin Aiden. Shane reluctantly agrees to go out with Aiden to help him get back into the dating scene. Aiden quickly zeroes in on Crickitt and seeing her tears assumes she'll be easy to seduce; however, Shane takes one look at Crickitt and his heart stops. He's interested in her and convinces Aiden that Crickitt's friend is where his interest lies. When Shane begins to talk to Crickitt, she confesses she needs a job and acting on impulse he hands her his business card. She's hesitant about the job interview and in fact turns down his offer, but reconsiders when he interviews her a second time. Both are clearly attracted to each other and Shane tries to set up guidelines of how to go about their relationship, but Crickitt doesn't want what he's offering. Realizing he can't give her what she wants, they both agree to maintain a professional relationship. When Crickitt's ex-husband calls her, Shane believes she's gone back to him and what ensues is a beautiful story about a man and a woman realizing what true love is.
What I really liked about Tempting the Billionaire is the fact Shane is normal. He wears cargo pants and isn't flashing his cash telling the whole world "oh look at me! I'm filthy rich!" When he does, it's to help people who need it. He's also not going around showing up where Crickitt is or demanding to know her whereabouts. Nor is he showering her with endless gifts. He's not interested in buying her love, but rather he's more interested in getting to know her. Shane does have some issues that are rooted in his past as a child. It's easy to understand his reluctance at falling in love because he witnessed firsthand what it did to his father and he wants to spare his children the heartache he experienced. The scene in which he realizes he can't live without Crickitt was the best. It's also refreshing to read a book where the two protagonists are aware of their sexual attraction and have an adult conversation about what to do about it.
Some people think Crickitt is a doormat but I disagree. You have to take into account her past. Most people enter relationships with some baggage and what she has is normal for a woman who is divorced. Remember she's only known one man and spent the past eleven years catering to him. Besides she's perfectly able to stand up for herself and knows what she wants. When Shane takes off to distance himself from her, she had one of two of options. The first was to continue to work for him as his personal assistant or quit and leave him hanging. Instead she took the initiative and became the face of August Industries when Shane didn't care.
Lemmon's characters are believable and flawed. Her writing is engaging and witty. If I had been reading this book out in public, everyone would have seen the HUGE grin on my face. I had so much fun reading this and adore it immensely.
Some of my favorite quotes:
Women may throw themselves at you like live grenades, but the rest of us commoners have to come out of the trenches and hunt.
She looked at it a beat before taking it. "Crickitt."
"Like the bug?" He flinched. Smooth.
Her mother pulled her to one side. "You stay as long as he needs you, you hear?"
Pimped out by my own parents. "Yes, Mother."
I'm not ashamed to say I read this book in a day. I kept insisting I would only read one more chapter and just kept going. If you're looking for a book with lots of sexual tension that will make your heart beat, this is the book for you. Heck if you're just looking for a good fleshed out romance this is your book. There's a side romance between Sadie and Aiden and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2, Hard to Handle.
Review originally posted at Literary, etc.
September 25, 2013
Crickitt day has just came out of a nine year marriage. Jobless and heart broken she is at a crossroads in her life. One night her best friend, Sadie takes her out to a club. Emotionally drained she finds herself crying at the bar. Meanwhile across the room is Shane August, owner of August Industries and his cousin Aiden. Shane is out on the town with his recently divorced cousin, whom is trying to get back in the dating seen. They both spot Crickitt crying. While Aiden believes she is an easy target, Shane instantly feels her pain radiating from across the room.
"Witnessing her pain made his gut clench. Probably because somewhere deep inside, he could relate."
Deciding to approach the women, Aiden ends up taking Sadie to the dance floor while Shane strikes up a conversation with Crickitt. After learning that she is unemployed and in need of a job, Shane offers her one with his company. At first Crickitt is hesitant but ends up agreeing to an interview.
"He hoped it wasn't a mistake to offer her an interview."
Shane carries around pain and emotional baggage from his youth. He doesn't want to ever depend on anyone other than himself, fall in love or get married. Being a successful business owner has insured he can live his life according to his plan.
Shane and Crickitt find themselves constantly thinking about the other. Shane is attracted to her but fights it. Crickitt spends her days fantasising about all the things she wants to do to Shane. They come to an agreement to keep things strictly professional. But agreements are easily broken.....or amended.....
"Let me know.....if you want to revisit that agreement... Make an amendment."
This story was a nice change from the typical "billionaire" books I have read. Don't get me wrong some of my favorites are those alpha, uber-hot dominant rich guy stories. It was just enjoyable to read something different. I loved Shane and Crickitt! Shane is intelligent, hard working, and thoughtful. It was refreshing reading a character like his without the overprotective cave man aspect! Crickitt's character was so real and believable. I think many women can relate to the pain she goes through coming out of a decade long loveless marriage. I was glad to see the two of them reach their Happily Ever After and look forward to reading the next book in this series, Aiden and Sadie's story!
"Witnessing her pain made his gut clench. Probably because somewhere deep inside, he could relate."
Deciding to approach the women, Aiden ends up taking Sadie to the dance floor while Shane strikes up a conversation with Crickitt. After learning that she is unemployed and in need of a job, Shane offers her one with his company. At first Crickitt is hesitant but ends up agreeing to an interview.
"He hoped it wasn't a mistake to offer her an interview."
Shane carries around pain and emotional baggage from his youth. He doesn't want to ever depend on anyone other than himself, fall in love or get married. Being a successful business owner has insured he can live his life according to his plan.
Shane and Crickitt find themselves constantly thinking about the other. Shane is attracted to her but fights it. Crickitt spends her days fantasising about all the things she wants to do to Shane. They come to an agreement to keep things strictly professional. But agreements are easily broken.....or amended.....
"Let me know.....if you want to revisit that agreement... Make an amendment."
This story was a nice change from the typical "billionaire" books I have read. Don't get me wrong some of my favorites are those alpha, uber-hot dominant rich guy stories. It was just enjoyable to read something different. I loved Shane and Crickitt! Shane is intelligent, hard working, and thoughtful. It was refreshing reading a character like his without the overprotective cave man aspect! Crickitt's character was so real and believable. I think many women can relate to the pain she goes through coming out of a decade long loveless marriage. I was glad to see the two of them reach their Happily Ever After and look forward to reading the next book in this series, Aiden and Sadie's story!
January 13, 2015
It was a long day, so I thought "Hey, let's relax with a beautiful billionaire we wish we had and take a bath." This book has in fact made my day worse, the plot if you could even call it one kept repeating in my head until I wanted to scream in horror. The bottom of this review will have a list of what made my wonder how this book got rated by five stars from some, because if your rating a book five stars it better damn make me want to read again, and again.
1. GETTING A SIX FIGURE JOB, FROM A GUY IN THE BAR.
I get it, it's a story but for the love of god, make it somewhat realistic. She flat out stated she expected six figures and he went along with it because she's pretty. But wait, she doesn't think she is. I'll come back to that later.
2. GASP 8 AM.
Can we all take a minute to just marvel at this. When I was in school, I woke up at the godforsaken hour of 5 AM and I didn't get a six figure salary. Even he woke up and started the job earlier but didn't say anything because "Oh, I didn't actually forget, she's so sad and pretty.*Gasp*
3. IT'S THE EX.
I have a theory that every author of any romance book out there have come together and made it a rule the bitchy, jealous ex has to make an appearance. Every. Single. Time. I've learned to get used to it but at least make it interesting. Lori, had absolutely nothing that made her remarkable from the next romance book with a bitchy, jealous ex. I don't mind if a character is simple but she's in a good part of the story make something about her pop. But our author has no forgotten to also add, the ex advice. "You're good for him." Ohh, stab me with a dull spoon.
4. I'M NOT PRETTY BUT MAYBE I AM.
It always comes to this. The heroine is always a knockout bombshell with no confidence. How about PLOT TWIST she actually has confidence and isn't model worthy. I take that back, she can be pretty but let her believe she is. I know this is 2015 and having appearance problems is as common as Kim K's bountiful booty appearing on T.V. But let's try to make our heroines understand that they are beautiful in their own way and not just because someone of the opposite sex tells us.
5. SHANE
No, I'm used to having unattached, grouchy men that some how are lovable, but Shane is usually an ass to Crickitt. At one part in the book she goes after him for the sixtieth time in the book, not sure why, and comes to comfort him. And he responds by basically saying, "You don't understand. Leave." Then pouts in the corner silently.
SHANE'S GOOD QUALITIES.
~He's handsome.
~He's occasionally okay.
That about sums it up.
SHANES BAD QUALITIES.
He's a douchebag.
He's an emotional douchebag.
He leads Crickitt on.
Let's throw a pity party.
Constantly saying he won't get attached to Crickitt, but he does!
I just can't even finish this review. Let's see if I can selvage this rest of my day after reading this.
1. GETTING A SIX FIGURE JOB, FROM A GUY IN THE BAR.
I get it, it's a story but for the love of god, make it somewhat realistic. She flat out stated she expected six figures and he went along with it because she's pretty. But wait, she doesn't think she is. I'll come back to that later.
2. GASP 8 AM.
Can we all take a minute to just marvel at this. When I was in school, I woke up at the godforsaken hour of 5 AM and I didn't get a six figure salary. Even he woke up and started the job earlier but didn't say anything because "Oh, I didn't actually forget, she's so sad and pretty.*Gasp*
3. IT'S THE EX.
I have a theory that every author of any romance book out there have come together and made it a rule the bitchy, jealous ex has to make an appearance. Every. Single. Time. I've learned to get used to it but at least make it interesting. Lori, had absolutely nothing that made her remarkable from the next romance book with a bitchy, jealous ex. I don't mind if a character is simple but she's in a good part of the story make something about her pop. But our author has no forgotten to also add, the ex advice. "You're good for him." Ohh, stab me with a dull spoon.
4. I'M NOT PRETTY BUT MAYBE I AM.
It always comes to this. The heroine is always a knockout bombshell with no confidence. How about PLOT TWIST she actually has confidence and isn't model worthy. I take that back, she can be pretty but let her believe she is. I know this is 2015 and having appearance problems is as common as Kim K's bountiful booty appearing on T.V. But let's try to make our heroines understand that they are beautiful in their own way and not just because someone of the opposite sex tells us.
5. SHANE
No, I'm used to having unattached, grouchy men that some how are lovable, but Shane is usually an ass to Crickitt. At one part in the book she goes after him for the sixtieth time in the book, not sure why, and comes to comfort him. And he responds by basically saying, "You don't understand. Leave." Then pouts in the corner silently.
SHANE'S GOOD QUALITIES.
~He's handsome.
~He's occasionally okay.
That about sums it up.
SHANES BAD QUALITIES.
He's a douchebag.
He's an emotional douchebag.
He leads Crickitt on.
Let's throw a pity party.
Constantly saying he won't get attached to Crickitt, but he does!
I just can't even finish this review. Let's see if I can selvage this rest of my day after reading this.
April 14, 2014
I generally LOVE Billionaire books, so I figured that I would love Tempting the Billionaire by Jessica Lemmon too. For the most part I did like the book. This is the story of Shane Anderson, Billionaire. He runs a company that helps other people market their products and get their foot doors that would normally be closed. He is at a bar one night with his cousin Aiden and sees a woman across the bar crying, Crickitt Day. Crickitt’s husband has just divorced her and it seems like her life, both personally and professionaly, is at loose ends. So to make her feel better, her best friend Sadie takes her to the bar to try to cheer her up. Shane wants to do somthing to make Crickitt feel better, so he offeres her a job as his personal assistant and at first Crickitt turns him down. But after having dinner with him, she changes her mind.
I liked Shane and Crickitt, but I did not LOVE Shane and Crickitt. Shane has childhood issues. He’s issues make him afraid to open up to the possibility of a relationship and love. Throughout the story, he wanted Crickitt, then he didn’t want Crickitt, then he wanted her again. Whenever he got scared that things were moving too fast or getting to serious, he would run, or attempt to break things off with her, and then he would have a change of heart and tell her to forget what he said or did. At some points, I really wanted to smack him in the face with a shovel and found myself yelling at the book to tell him to WAKE UP.
Crickitt was not much better at times. She has confidence issues. Her ex really did a number on her. After all, who would feel sexy and sophisticated if their ex told them that they only ever loved them as a sister? Really? She is attracted to Shane, and wants to be with him, but then takes offence with he tells her that he doesn’t want to lable them, he wants to keep it casual. What did she expect? Then she has a change of heart and tries to take him up on his offer, only to have him tell her their feelings will pass. Everytime that Shane disappears or tries to break it off with her, she thinks that her stupid ex is right and she is not enough for Shane.
In the end, the characters did redeem themselves, and I ended up really liking this story.
This is the first book in the series, and I would not rule out trying the second book (Aiden and Sadie). For the most part the book flowed well, the characters were kind of funny at times, sarcastic at others, and I did enjoy the this book.i
I liked Shane and Crickitt, but I did not LOVE Shane and Crickitt. Shane has childhood issues. He’s issues make him afraid to open up to the possibility of a relationship and love. Throughout the story, he wanted Crickitt, then he didn’t want Crickitt, then he wanted her again. Whenever he got scared that things were moving too fast or getting to serious, he would run, or attempt to break things off with her, and then he would have a change of heart and tell her to forget what he said or did. At some points, I really wanted to smack him in the face with a shovel and found myself yelling at the book to tell him to WAKE UP.
Crickitt was not much better at times. She has confidence issues. Her ex really did a number on her. After all, who would feel sexy and sophisticated if their ex told them that they only ever loved them as a sister? Really? She is attracted to Shane, and wants to be with him, but then takes offence with he tells her that he doesn’t want to lable them, he wants to keep it casual. What did she expect? Then she has a change of heart and tries to take him up on his offer, only to have him tell her their feelings will pass. Everytime that Shane disappears or tries to break it off with her, she thinks that her stupid ex is right and she is not enough for Shane.
In the end, the characters did redeem themselves, and I ended up really liking this story.
This is the first book in the series, and I would not rule out trying the second book (Aiden and Sadie). For the most part the book flowed well, the characters were kind of funny at times, sarcastic at others, and I did enjoy the this book.i
September 2, 2016
When billionaire Shane August goes to a club with his cousin he notice a woman crying at the bar. He start a conversation with her and when she tell him she needs a job, he offer her an interview. After an interview and a date, she become his personal assitant. Shane and Crickitt are determined to keep things professional despite their mutual attraction, but fate has others plans for them. Not to mention there's something in Shane's past that stop him from opening up completely.
We usually say don't judge a book by his cover but in this case, I'll say don't judge a heroine by her name. Crickitt was a lovable character. She's smart and nice but what I liked most about her is she knew what she wanted and she didn't doubt herself and her competences.
Like the heroine said, Shane is the most grounded billionaire. He doesn't flash his cash around. It's one of the thing I liked in Jessica's Lemmon other billionaire's series and I was happy to find it again in this one. He's charismaric, generous and teasing. I liked him, for the most part, but he kind of made an ass of himself towards the end. I would have prefered Shane's reactions to be different and for him to not take so much time before seeing what's in front of him.
It was great how they immediately felt comfortable with each other, but it didn't lack sparks and they had really great chemistry. There was a bit too much ambivalence between them for my taste. When he takes a step forward, she step back two and vice versa. It may not be the most entertaining story with full of twists ans turns, but it was still a fun read because the writing style was so good and special! There was lots of excellent lines and many good scenes, like the first date and great details, like the trift store appartement. By the way, what a great line to end the book !
Here's a few quotes that show what I mean about the writing style.
"His hair was disheveled from pushing his hands through it one too many times, and his five o'clock shadow had struck twelve."
Crickitt eyes her dessert, then narrowed her eyes at him. "Bribery?"
"After you have a bit of that, you'll fold like a paper airplane."
"Shane? Let's not autopsy what happened, okay?"
We usually say don't judge a book by his cover but in this case, I'll say don't judge a heroine by her name. Crickitt was a lovable character. She's smart and nice but what I liked most about her is she knew what she wanted and she didn't doubt herself and her competences.
Like the heroine said, Shane is the most grounded billionaire. He doesn't flash his cash around. It's one of the thing I liked in Jessica's Lemmon other billionaire's series and I was happy to find it again in this one. He's charismaric, generous and teasing. I liked him, for the most part, but he kind of made an ass of himself towards the end. I would have prefered Shane's reactions to be different and for him to not take so much time before seeing what's in front of him.
It was great how they immediately felt comfortable with each other, but it didn't lack sparks and they had really great chemistry. There was a bit too much ambivalence between them for my taste. When he takes a step forward, she step back two and vice versa. It may not be the most entertaining story with full of twists ans turns, but it was still a fun read because the writing style was so good and special! There was lots of excellent lines and many good scenes, like the first date and great details, like the trift store appartement. By the way, what a great line to end the book !
Here's a few quotes that show what I mean about the writing style.
"His hair was disheveled from pushing his hands through it one too many times, and his five o'clock shadow had struck twelve."
Crickitt eyes her dessert, then narrowed her eyes at him. "Bribery?"
"After you have a bit of that, you'll fold like a paper airplane."
"Shane? Let's not autopsy what happened, okay?"
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