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Paper Cuts #3
Dear Stranger
Online lovers … offline rivals.
Ambitious and career-driven, I have zero time for dating until Blind Love—an app designed for those seeking genuine romantic connections without the hassle of awkward first dates—hooks me in. The only catch? Ninety days of anonymous messaging are required before identities are revealed.
I connect with Stranger88 immediately, and before long our flirty banter becomes a welcome escape from my demanding schedule.
Soon I’m desperate to know his true identity, so I go digging—only to discover that Stranger88 … is no stranger at all.
In a cruel twist of fate, it turns out the mystery man consuming my every thought is fellow attorney Brooks Abbott—a sharp-tongued devil in a three-piece suit, my biggest office rival, and the one obstacle standing between me and the promotion of my dreams: a job Brooks has every intention of landing.
Behind the screens, there’s no denying our electric chemistry, but at work, our rivalry grows stronger than ever.
But when passion meets profession, will we redefine the Law of Attraction … or will our hearts face a ruthless cross-examination with no chance of appeal?
AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is a standalone romance. You do not need to read HATE MAIL or YOURS CRUELLY first.
Ambitious and career-driven, I have zero time for dating until Blind Love—an app designed for those seeking genuine romantic connections without the hassle of awkward first dates—hooks me in. The only catch? Ninety days of anonymous messaging are required before identities are revealed.
I connect with Stranger88 immediately, and before long our flirty banter becomes a welcome escape from my demanding schedule.
Soon I’m desperate to know his true identity, so I go digging—only to discover that Stranger88 … is no stranger at all.
In a cruel twist of fate, it turns out the mystery man consuming my every thought is fellow attorney Brooks Abbott—a sharp-tongued devil in a three-piece suit, my biggest office rival, and the one obstacle standing between me and the promotion of my dreams: a job Brooks has every intention of landing.
Behind the screens, there’s no denying our electric chemistry, but at work, our rivalry grows stronger than ever.
But when passion meets profession, will we redefine the Law of Attraction … or will our hearts face a ruthless cross-examination with no chance of appeal?
AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is a standalone romance. You do not need to read HATE MAIL or YOURS CRUELLY first.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2023
644 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
December 19, 2023
the amount of typos in this book 😮💨
this was feeling like a 2 ⭐️⭐️ read for me but the epilogue was adorable and wholesome and so I kicked it up 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
this was feeling like a 2 ⭐️⭐️ read for me but the epilogue was adorable and wholesome and so I kicked it up 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 18, 2023
3.5 out of 5
Sometimes it’s hard to come up with a grade. Do I compare the one I’m reading to other books in general or do I compare it to other books by the same author? In this case I’m more on the side of comparison to the author. I’ve read a number of books by Winter Renshaw and she’s on my auto bye list though at times it may take a while to get to them. I enjoyed this book and have no qualms recommending it but I had issues with Tenley, the heroine.
Tenley was raised by a single mother and grew up poor. As a result she’s become single minded in her determination to be successful in her career as a lawyer. She works at the same office as Brooks our hero and both are in line to be offered a position as partner. Because Brooks seems to have the advantage because he went to Harvard AND Yale, is popular, handsome and well liked, she hates him and has come up with all kinds of scenarios in her head about what a jerk he is. She makes no attempt to make friends with, or even be friendly with her coworkers. She’s most viscous to Brooks and he has reason why. He’s a good guy.
Then, in order to determine which of the two should get the promotion, they are assigned to work together on a case and whoever does the best job will become partner. This is when she really gets nasty. But in working together, she gets to know him and he her and it turns out they have a lot in common and then a romance starts. She becomes much easier to take. But then towards the end of the story, she regresses and once more is difficult to like. In the end, while I did enjoy the book and Brooks is a real sweetheart, I felt he was too good for her and that’s never a good thing.
I will however to continue reading Winter Renshaw’s books as she’s an author I enjoy and this doesn’t phase me at all.
Sometimes it’s hard to come up with a grade. Do I compare the one I’m reading to other books in general or do I compare it to other books by the same author? In this case I’m more on the side of comparison to the author. I’ve read a number of books by Winter Renshaw and she’s on my auto bye list though at times it may take a while to get to them. I enjoyed this book and have no qualms recommending it but I had issues with Tenley, the heroine.
Tenley was raised by a single mother and grew up poor. As a result she’s become single minded in her determination to be successful in her career as a lawyer. She works at the same office as Brooks our hero and both are in line to be offered a position as partner. Because Brooks seems to have the advantage because he went to Harvard AND Yale, is popular, handsome and well liked, she hates him and has come up with all kinds of scenarios in her head about what a jerk he is. She makes no attempt to make friends with, or even be friendly with her coworkers. She’s most viscous to Brooks and he has reason why. He’s a good guy.
Then, in order to determine which of the two should get the promotion, they are assigned to work together on a case and whoever does the best job will become partner. This is when she really gets nasty. But in working together, she gets to know him and he her and it turns out they have a lot in common and then a romance starts. She becomes much easier to take. But then towards the end of the story, she regresses and once more is difficult to like. In the end, while I did enjoy the book and Brooks is a real sweetheart, I felt he was too good for her and that’s never a good thing.
I will however to continue reading Winter Renshaw’s books as she’s an author I enjoy and this doesn’t phase me at all.
October 5, 2023
Brooks & Tenley’s Slow Burn Is An Enemies-To-Lovers Story Of Fated Love. Life Brings The Pair Together In Various Ways, Slowly Breaking Down The Barriers & Defenses That Separate Them. Despite The Initial Heated Exchanges, This Becomes A Sweet Story About Family & Priorities.
This is book three of the Paper Cuts series, but it reads perfectly as a standalone. As the story opens, it is June in Sapphire Shores, Maine. About three years have passed since Alec and Stassi’s story in book two of the series.
Tenley Bayliss, twenty-eight, is close to achieving all her goals. The problem is that she never made a plan for what comes next. Raised by a single mother, she learned early in life not to implicitly trust men. She is serious, independent, and hard-working, and there have been no men in her life since prom. Not that she isn’t interested; she just hasn’t had the time. After graduating from the University of Maine’s law school just over a year ago, she accepted a position at Foster and Foster, one of the most highly esteemed law firms in Maine. An opening for a junior partner was announced a few months ago, and she has been working even harder ever since to ensure the position is awarded to her. Partnership would afford her financial security as well as both the time and money to pursue her real passion: helping disadvantaged women.
The long hours Tenley works as an associate leave only one afternoon each week for volunteering her time. Tenley saw firsthand how one special woman helped her own mother pull herself up and take control of her life after being abandoned by her husband, Tenley’s father. That woman indirectly changed Tenley’s life, too. Knowing how life-changing a helping hand and loving support can be, she seeks to help as many others as she can. But first, she needs that promotion.
There is only one person who might jeopardize Tenley’s promotion, and the man is the bane of her existence. They are both being considered for the job, unfortunately. He is universally loved and began at the firm six months before Tenley was hired. He coasts by on his charm, while Tenley works relentlessly and has a list of achievements to show for it. Despite her success, however, nobody in the office seems to like her.
Brooks Gentry, about twenty-eight, knows he has the promotion in the bag. He comes across as casual and collected, but he is also extremely ambitious. He has the best record in the office and is universally liked, not to mention he graduated from Harvard before attending Yale Law School. He only got into those schools because of an athletic scholarship, but the result is the same. His dyslexia had been a hindrance growing up, so he applied himself athletically to get himself into college and pay his way through school. He desperately wanted to make something of himself.
Brooks didn’t have it easy growing up. His father had died when he was young, and his mother struggled emotionally and financially as a single mother. Brooks practically raised his little sister himself. And now that Ellie is twenty-four and a single mother herself, Brooks is still taking care of her. After she lost everything in a fire, she and her six-year-old son Jace moved in with him. Ellie lost her job soon after, and a year later, she still has excuse after excuse for not finding steady employment. Brooks wants the prestige of becoming partner, but he also wants to be financially sound for the sake of his nephew since he deserves a stable life.
Brooks adores his nephew, even if Jace does cramp his bachelor ways. He hasn’t been with a woman in forever and he is lonely. The long hours at work would make it nearly impossible to date even if he didn’t have family living with him. He has had two long-term relationships in the past, but it has been a while. Not that he doesn’t have options. Women at work practically throw themselves at him, but that is a line he won’t cross.
Since he cannot have the real thing, Brooks decides to sign up for a dating app. If he finds someone he likes chatting with, and keeps up a streak for ninety consecutive days, he will earn the chance to unlock the woman’s identity and meet her in real life. He hasn’t had any luck so far. But when Stranger7721 starts to tell him like it is, he loves it. He isn't used to having to work for anything in a social capacity, and her honesty is refreshing. When he starts picturing her as the prim and proper associate from work who hates his guts and wants to steal his promotion, it surprises him. And after opening up to his stranger, he is even more shocked when it turns out he has been spilling everything to that same ambitious woman.
As Brooks and Tenley are forced to join forces at work, their preconceptions about one another begin to fade. They are still fierce competitors, though some of the heat of their animosity shifts in another direction. But it is in their after-work hours when they talk as strangers that they unknowingly leave all their walls and competition behind. When the truth is discovered, it is difficult to determine if it is a blessing or a curse. The couple faces challenges along the way, but they eventually find their happy ending.
Brooks and Tenley’s slow burn is an enemies-to-lovers story of fated love. Life brings the pair together in various ways, slowly breaking down the barriers and defenses that separate them. From first impressions, the two are like night and day. Brooks is loved by everyone he meets thanks to his natural charm and charisma. Things appear to come easily for him. Tenley is a serious librarian type and a stickler for fine details. Everyone tries to avoid her, but she doesn’t care. Her successes come from her devotion to her clients and scouring legal code and case law. She learned early on to keep her emotions separate from her work, and she detests people like Brooks who slide by on their looks and personality. However, once she gets to really know Brooks, she realizes that they actually have a lot in common, and their feelings only grow stronger over time.
Note that while books one and two of the series followed three childhood friends - Campbell, Stassi, and Tenley - this book’s connection to the others is limited to its setting in Sapphire Shores and Ted’s Pizza, the pizza joint at which Stassi worked. There is no mention of Campbell and Stassi aside from a single vague reference to best friends and saving for a trip to France. Note also that the blurb gives Brooks the last name of Abbott, but within the story, he is Brooks Gentry. Finally, it was a little disappointing not to hear what happened with the Perry case that Brooks and Tenley worked on together.
Brooks and Tenley’s story slowly unfolds as they fall in love unconventionally. At work, online, and through Tenley’s volunteer work, they keep winding up together. Fate has a mind of its own for these fiercely ambitious competitors. Despite the initial heated exchanges, this becomes a sweet story about family and priorities. The story is nicely written. The plot is fairly simple. The characters are real and complex. The story is in first person. The POV alternates between Brooks and Tenley. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
This is book three of the Paper Cuts series, but it reads perfectly as a standalone. As the story opens, it is June in Sapphire Shores, Maine. About three years have passed since Alec and Stassi’s story in book two of the series.
Tenley Bayliss, twenty-eight, is close to achieving all her goals. The problem is that she never made a plan for what comes next. Raised by a single mother, she learned early in life not to implicitly trust men. She is serious, independent, and hard-working, and there have been no men in her life since prom. Not that she isn’t interested; she just hasn’t had the time. After graduating from the University of Maine’s law school just over a year ago, she accepted a position at Foster and Foster, one of the most highly esteemed law firms in Maine. An opening for a junior partner was announced a few months ago, and she has been working even harder ever since to ensure the position is awarded to her. Partnership would afford her financial security as well as both the time and money to pursue her real passion: helping disadvantaged women.
The long hours Tenley works as an associate leave only one afternoon each week for volunteering her time. Tenley saw firsthand how one special woman helped her own mother pull herself up and take control of her life after being abandoned by her husband, Tenley’s father. That woman indirectly changed Tenley’s life, too. Knowing how life-changing a helping hand and loving support can be, she seeks to help as many others as she can. But first, she needs that promotion.
There is only one person who might jeopardize Tenley’s promotion, and the man is the bane of her existence. They are both being considered for the job, unfortunately. He is universally loved and began at the firm six months before Tenley was hired. He coasts by on his charm, while Tenley works relentlessly and has a list of achievements to show for it. Despite her success, however, nobody in the office seems to like her.
Brooks Gentry, about twenty-eight, knows he has the promotion in the bag. He comes across as casual and collected, but he is also extremely ambitious. He has the best record in the office and is universally liked, not to mention he graduated from Harvard before attending Yale Law School. He only got into those schools because of an athletic scholarship, but the result is the same. His dyslexia had been a hindrance growing up, so he applied himself athletically to get himself into college and pay his way through school. He desperately wanted to make something of himself.
Brooks didn’t have it easy growing up. His father had died when he was young, and his mother struggled emotionally and financially as a single mother. Brooks practically raised his little sister himself. And now that Ellie is twenty-four and a single mother herself, Brooks is still taking care of her. After she lost everything in a fire, she and her six-year-old son Jace moved in with him. Ellie lost her job soon after, and a year later, she still has excuse after excuse for not finding steady employment. Brooks wants the prestige of becoming partner, but he also wants to be financially sound for the sake of his nephew since he deserves a stable life.
Brooks adores his nephew, even if Jace does cramp his bachelor ways. He hasn’t been with a woman in forever and he is lonely. The long hours at work would make it nearly impossible to date even if he didn’t have family living with him. He has had two long-term relationships in the past, but it has been a while. Not that he doesn’t have options. Women at work practically throw themselves at him, but that is a line he won’t cross.
Since he cannot have the real thing, Brooks decides to sign up for a dating app. If he finds someone he likes chatting with, and keeps up a streak for ninety consecutive days, he will earn the chance to unlock the woman’s identity and meet her in real life. He hasn’t had any luck so far. But when Stranger7721 starts to tell him like it is, he loves it. He isn't used to having to work for anything in a social capacity, and her honesty is refreshing. When he starts picturing her as the prim and proper associate from work who hates his guts and wants to steal his promotion, it surprises him. And after opening up to his stranger, he is even more shocked when it turns out he has been spilling everything to that same ambitious woman.
As Brooks and Tenley are forced to join forces at work, their preconceptions about one another begin to fade. They are still fierce competitors, though some of the heat of their animosity shifts in another direction. But it is in their after-work hours when they talk as strangers that they unknowingly leave all their walls and competition behind. When the truth is discovered, it is difficult to determine if it is a blessing or a curse. The couple faces challenges along the way, but they eventually find their happy ending.
Brooks and Tenley’s slow burn is an enemies-to-lovers story of fated love. Life brings the pair together in various ways, slowly breaking down the barriers and defenses that separate them. From first impressions, the two are like night and day. Brooks is loved by everyone he meets thanks to his natural charm and charisma. Things appear to come easily for him. Tenley is a serious librarian type and a stickler for fine details. Everyone tries to avoid her, but she doesn’t care. Her successes come from her devotion to her clients and scouring legal code and case law. She learned early on to keep her emotions separate from her work, and she detests people like Brooks who slide by on their looks and personality. However, once she gets to really know Brooks, she realizes that they actually have a lot in common, and their feelings only grow stronger over time.
Note that while books one and two of the series followed three childhood friends - Campbell, Stassi, and Tenley - this book’s connection to the others is limited to its setting in Sapphire Shores and Ted’s Pizza, the pizza joint at which Stassi worked. There is no mention of Campbell and Stassi aside from a single vague reference to best friends and saving for a trip to France. Note also that the blurb gives Brooks the last name of Abbott, but within the story, he is Brooks Gentry. Finally, it was a little disappointing not to hear what happened with the Perry case that Brooks and Tenley worked on together.
Brooks and Tenley’s story slowly unfolds as they fall in love unconventionally. At work, online, and through Tenley’s volunteer work, they keep winding up together. Fate has a mind of its own for these fiercely ambitious competitors. Despite the initial heated exchanges, this becomes a sweet story about family and priorities. The story is nicely written. The plot is fairly simple. The characters are real and complex. The story is in first person. The POV alternates between Brooks and Tenley. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
October 5, 2023
The first book I am reading from Winter Renshaw, and what a book it was!
It is a funny and heartwarming story where two people, based on assumptions, can’t stand each other but fall head over heels for one another online. It shows that you shouldn’t judge a book on its cover 😉
The story flows, makes small jumps in time, and the chapters are short. Even with the number of pages, you sometimes see that stories are slow or contain unnecessary information. I felt this was not the case here, and when I checked my page count, I was over 2/3 of the book without realizing it.
I wouldn’t personally state the book was a little spicy, there were some references to the chemistry or the fact that Brooks was a smooth talker. But really decent and it complemented the story and showed the chemistry.
The epilogue felt a little bit out of place for my taste. It was a quick and short jump, which was nice, but left out Brooks's path. It left me with some questions and I prefer when I close the book, the story is done and questions answered.
But overall, I liked the book and I will see if I can add some more books by Winter to my reading list. So complements to the writer, she definitely triggered me with curiosity.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
It is a funny and heartwarming story where two people, based on assumptions, can’t stand each other but fall head over heels for one another online. It shows that you shouldn’t judge a book on its cover 😉
The story flows, makes small jumps in time, and the chapters are short. Even with the number of pages, you sometimes see that stories are slow or contain unnecessary information. I felt this was not the case here, and when I checked my page count, I was over 2/3 of the book without realizing it.
I wouldn’t personally state the book was a little spicy, there were some references to the chemistry or the fact that Brooks was a smooth talker. But really decent and it complemented the story and showed the chemistry.
The epilogue felt a little bit out of place for my taste. It was a quick and short jump, which was nice, but left out Brooks's path. It left me with some questions and I prefer when I close the book, the story is done and questions answered.
But overall, I liked the book and I will see if I can add some more books by Winter to my reading list. So complements to the writer, she definitely triggered me with curiosity.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 21, 2023
Loved it!
"There's something about Brooks that both infuriates me and...gets me hot and bothered at the same time."
Tenley Bayliss and Brooks Gentry are enemies and in direct competition for the partnership promotion at work. Until they are forced to work together. Tenley hated Brooks on sight since her first day at work. Brooks has given up all attempts at friendliness with her. They both have preconceived notions about each other. What they don't know is that they know more about each other than they realise!
"And now that I know she's been the one chatting with me...that does it. This was meant to happen."
This was a fab enemies-to-lovers romance. The chemistry between Tenley and Brooks was HOT! I loved how they got to know one another virtually and, once they found out the truth, I loved that Brooks didn't back down, and so happy that Tenley took a chance. There was so much more to them individually than met the eye, but they really complemented each other. He was all charm hiding a difficult personal life, and she was all coldness, hiding a vulnerable heart. Another winner from this author for me!
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
"There's something about Brooks that both infuriates me and...gets me hot and bothered at the same time."
Tenley Bayliss and Brooks Gentry are enemies and in direct competition for the partnership promotion at work. Until they are forced to work together. Tenley hated Brooks on sight since her first day at work. Brooks has given up all attempts at friendliness with her. They both have preconceived notions about each other. What they don't know is that they know more about each other than they realise!
"And now that I know she's been the one chatting with me...that does it. This was meant to happen."
This was a fab enemies-to-lovers romance. The chemistry between Tenley and Brooks was HOT! I loved how they got to know one another virtually and, once they found out the truth, I loved that Brooks didn't back down, and so happy that Tenley took a chance. There was so much more to them individually than met the eye, but they really complemented each other. He was all charm hiding a difficult personal life, and she was all coldness, hiding a vulnerable heart. Another winner from this author for me!
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
October 2, 2023
I absolutely adore all Winter Renshaw books. This is book 3 in the paper cut series. All are standalone.
Tropes in this book include:
✅online romance
✅office romance
✅enemies to lovers
✅dual pov
This is the story of Brooks and Tenley. I found them both to be funny, snarky, and together bring the heat. There journey is quite a ride thanks to an anonymous online dating app. I absolutely loved the banter and snark between them both in person and in the app. When they both discover the truth about each other and how they judged each other. They are forced to work together for a client even though up for same promotion. I absolutely loved the story and the circumstances they overcome.
If you love snark, banter, online romance, work place romance then this is the book for you. Thank you to Ardent Prose and Winter for allowing me an advance copy for honest review.
Tropes in this book include:
✅online romance
✅office romance
✅enemies to lovers
✅dual pov
This is the story of Brooks and Tenley. I found them both to be funny, snarky, and together bring the heat. There journey is quite a ride thanks to an anonymous online dating app. I absolutely loved the banter and snark between them both in person and in the app. When they both discover the truth about each other and how they judged each other. They are forced to work together for a client even though up for same promotion. I absolutely loved the story and the circumstances they overcome.
If you love snark, banter, online romance, work place romance then this is the book for you. Thank you to Ardent Prose and Winter for allowing me an advance copy for honest review.
October 4, 2023
I just enjoy reading a story about a strong, determined woman. I admired her tenacity and could also see how working so hard to reach her dreams could sometimes be a nightmare.
This is the story of Tenley and Brooks. Both workaholics, both determined to be the best and make partner.
I like how even with the same kind of past, both Tenley and Brooks are quite the opposite, but they find out how much they really fit together. Brooks smooths Tenley's rough edges, and Tenley is the push that Brooks sometimes needs.
I love the text and banter between the two of them, and their chemistry is wicked hot.
I always enjoy a Winter Renshaw story; they are so hard to put down once you start.
This is the story of Tenley and Brooks. Both workaholics, both determined to be the best and make partner.
I like how even with the same kind of past, both Tenley and Brooks are quite the opposite, but they find out how much they really fit together. Brooks smooths Tenley's rough edges, and Tenley is the push that Brooks sometimes needs.
I love the text and banter between the two of them, and their chemistry is wicked hot.
I always enjoy a Winter Renshaw story; they are so hard to put down once you start.
October 5, 2023
Work rivals are the theme in this enemies to lovers romance. Both Brooks and Tenley are up for promotion to partner in the law firm where they work. Brooks is such a charmer, Tenley worries her studious ways will work against her.
But what drew me to DEAR STRANGERS is they know one another in real life then meet anonymously on a dating app. Tenley has so many reasons for no liking Brooks at work. Brooks views Tenley as a workaholic apple polisher and it annoys him, so what makes the book fun is how they find out how wrong they are about one another.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But what drew me to DEAR STRANGERS is they know one another in real life then meet anonymously on a dating app. Tenley has so many reasons for no liking Brooks at work. Brooks views Tenley as a workaholic apple polisher and it annoys him, so what makes the book fun is how they find out how wrong they are about one another.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2023
I’m a huge Winter Renshaw fan. Love her books and this one did not disappoint. Tenley and Brooks are rival lawyers, battling to partnership. Outside the office they are unknowingly bonding through an online ap. Their rivalry in the office is funny. And Tenley’s stereotyping of Brooks is interesting, especially as the stranger dating service unravels and she pieces the real Brooks to her the one she made him to be. In the end the pick each other up and find common ground to forever. Little bit of spice once they figure things out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2023
Brooks and Tenley were office enemies. These two were like oil and water. Two people after the same position. But these two have another bind they don’t quite know about yet. These two have a connection that is fun, flirty and easy, nothing like the two at work. Once walls start to crumbling these two have a connection and once their identity is known….a love like no other is born. Fun, sexy and so entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Booksprout read
Highly recommended.
Booksprout read
October 14, 2023
Office rivals, enemies to lovers, HEA. Tenley was so hard to like for the first part of the book. It took me a while to really get a feel for her. Brooks had an additive quality that drew me in from the beginning. Ironically, that was one of the problems that Tenley had with him, everyone adored him and avoided her. Overall, solid read.
October 4, 2023
4.5 Stars
This story started off slow for me. Brooks I liked right off the bat but Tenley was much harder to like. About halfway through the story the corner started to turn and by the end I was all in with these two.
This story started off slow for me. Brooks I liked right off the bat but Tenley was much harder to like. About halfway through the story the corner started to turn and by the end I was all in with these two.
October 4, 2023
Blind Love
I loved this book! The tension and chemistry between Tenley and Brooks are off the charts. The supporting characters are well developed and really add to the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book! The tension and chemistry between Tenley and Brooks are off the charts. The supporting characters are well developed and really add to the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2023
spelling mistakes galore
I wouldn’t recommend this book or author. The story was meh and there were so many spelling and grammar mistakes it was distracting to try to figure out what the missing words were. I don’t know how something gets published like that.
I wouldn’t recommend this book or author. The story was meh and there were so many spelling and grammar mistakes it was distracting to try to figure out what the missing words were. I don’t know how something gets published like that.
January 8, 2024
You’ve Got Mail meets the Hating Game. Very tropetastic and predictable, but I like rivals to lovers. It’s a McDonalds book; you know what you’re getting and is a quick and tasty meal, but you won’t remember it long term.
Summary: Brooks and Tenley are bothering vying for a partnership at their law firm, and surprise surprise they hate each other because they both made assumptions about the other. They match on a dating app where you have to wait 90 days before sharing pictures or meeting up and form an emotional connection by opening up about their past. They date IRL, and Brooks pulls out of the competition. Before Tenley can get her promotion, two of the partners run off together and take the firm’s money. Brooks ends up a another firm, and Tenley becomes director of a woman’s shelter.
Summary: Brooks and Tenley are bothering vying for a partnership at their law firm, and surprise surprise they hate each other because they both made assumptions about the other. They match on a dating app where you have to wait 90 days before sharing pictures or meeting up and form an emotional connection by opening up about their past. They date IRL, and Brooks pulls out of the competition. Before Tenley can get her promotion, two of the partners run off together and take the firm’s money. Brooks ends up a another firm, and Tenley becomes director of a woman’s shelter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2023
So disappointing! Didn’t feel like a Winter story at all. I really didn’t like Tenley she drive me nuts I just found her rude and judgy till about the 60% mark of the book.
October 13, 2023
Least favorite of the series. I’m just not sure what happened to Winter’s writing, but it’s not up to par with her other books. While the plot had some potential, the characters weren’t really likable, the story felt strained, and there were too many grammatical mistakes to count. Disappointed…
October 19, 2024
I'm honestly really disappointed, because I love workplace romances, secret identities, rivals to lovers and a sunshiney MMC, but this fell really flat. Maybe I just wasn't in a reading mood, but I found it really boring and the characters didn't really have that much chemistry.
October 19, 2023
Great story, but…
I’m not sure what’s going on, but the last three books have been full of grammatical errors. For gods sake do yourself a favor and get new editors.
I’m not sure what’s going on, but the last three books have been full of grammatical errors. For gods sake do yourself a favor and get new editors.
October 13, 2023
I really enjoyed this 3rd novel in the paper cut series, centering in on Tenley and Brooks.
Tenley and Brooks work at the same law firm and it is no secret that they don't get along. When a partner position comes up for grabs at work, they both want the job. However, they must work together on a case, in which the successful candidate will be picked to become partner.
Upon stumbling on a dating app, Tenley signs up for fun and connects with Stranger88. They both see similarities with one another and decide to wait out the full 90 days before finding out the others identity. Through this, they strike up a friendship and start to reveal more about themselves that they have never told another.
Tenley and Brooks are continuing to butt heads on the case they're both working through, but after one to many coincidences offline and online, Tenley works it out that the stranger she fancies is non-other than Brooks. She later confronts him that she knows who he really is and Brooks not only doesn't deny who he is, he confesses that he likes her equally as much and it's fate that has brought them together like this. Tenley disagrees but eventually gives it a shot with Brooks after he shows his sincerity and decides to bow out of the partnership run.
Of course they story doesn't end there as Winter is just getting started!
Spoiler alert ⚠️
The law firm is shuttered (bank accounts were cleared out) and both Tenley and Brooks are out of a job. Brooks has been offered another partner position but in Chicago and is torn between leaving and staying. He asks Tenley to go with him but she doesn't want to uproot her life for a man, especially one she has only known for a short amount of time (she worries that she will be following in her mum's footsteps). Due to this, Tenley decides to call it a day to save them from both the pain.
I won't spoil the ending for those who want to find out the ending but you won't be let down! I'm so glad Tenley and Brooks got their HEA, despite the odds stacks against them 🙏❤️ definitely a fabulous ending to the series!
I did however knock a star off as there were some parts that weren't explained/made sense. We never really found out what happened in the Perry case after it was passed on and Tenley is made out to be a loner with no friends when clearly in the previous books she was hanging out with Campbell and Stassi? Mmmmm.... 🤔.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tenley and Brooks work at the same law firm and it is no secret that they don't get along. When a partner position comes up for grabs at work, they both want the job. However, they must work together on a case, in which the successful candidate will be picked to become partner.
Upon stumbling on a dating app, Tenley signs up for fun and connects with Stranger88. They both see similarities with one another and decide to wait out the full 90 days before finding out the others identity. Through this, they strike up a friendship and start to reveal more about themselves that they have never told another.
Tenley and Brooks are continuing to butt heads on the case they're both working through, but after one to many coincidences offline and online, Tenley works it out that the stranger she fancies is non-other than Brooks. She later confronts him that she knows who he really is and Brooks not only doesn't deny who he is, he confesses that he likes her equally as much and it's fate that has brought them together like this. Tenley disagrees but eventually gives it a shot with Brooks after he shows his sincerity and decides to bow out of the partnership run.
Of course they story doesn't end there as Winter is just getting started!
Spoiler alert ⚠️
The law firm is shuttered (bank accounts were cleared out) and both Tenley and Brooks are out of a job. Brooks has been offered another partner position but in Chicago and is torn between leaving and staying. He asks Tenley to go with him but she doesn't want to uproot her life for a man, especially one she has only known for a short amount of time (she worries that she will be following in her mum's footsteps). Due to this, Tenley decides to call it a day to save them from both the pain.
I won't spoil the ending for those who want to find out the ending but you won't be let down! I'm so glad Tenley and Brooks got their HEA, despite the odds stacks against them 🙏❤️ definitely a fabulous ending to the series!
I did however knock a star off as there were some parts that weren't explained/made sense. We never really found out what happened in the Perry case after it was passed on and Tenley is made out to be a loner with no friends when clearly in the previous books she was hanging out with Campbell and Stassi? Mmmmm.... 🤔.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2023
Winter Renshaw pulled me right in with her special kind style from the first chapter of Dear Stranger- how I loved everything single thing about this book! It's the third in her enemies to lovers Papercuts Series, saving the best for last with this one, in my opinion. With wonderfully fleshed out characters who weren't exactly as they seemed, their snarky interactions and the fun spin that brings them together, truly made this story shine even brighter for me.
I loved this workplace enemies to more romance that pits top lawyers at the same firm, Brooks and Tenley, against each other while vying for a chance to become the next partner. One is smart, confident and the life of the party; the other, a self assured, meticulous, prickly loner. As a team, they balanced each other out, if only they could get along. Who will be the last person standing at the end of this impossible showdown and land that one and only coveted promotion?
Hard working with no time for a real relationship and nothing to lose, Tenley ends up clicking on an app- Blind Love, where 90 days of anonymous messaging is required before your chosen 'Stranger' can be unveiled. Intrigued when she 'meets' Stranger88, they form a deep bond, sharing secrets, hopes and dreams- more than they have with anyone else. Connecting with each other becomes the highlight of their days and nights, but what will happen when their true identities are revealed?
Dear Stranger is just another reason why Winter Renshaw continues to be one of my favorite one click authors. I could NOT put this book down- the story drew me in and her writing kept me there- I couldn't wait to see what happened next. These fiesty combatants could hurl zingers, truth bombs or witty insults with ease, but when they fell, there was no denying they were meant for each other, even if it took them a few minutes to figure that out.
Brooks was a charmer and rated high on my swoonworthy hero scale and Tenley, always strong, had a softer side that she liked to keep hidden. Both pulled tight on my heartstrings so many times, when emotions ran high, low and everything in between. With laughter, tears and unexpected turns, Brooks and Tenley's roundabout romance was sexy, sweet and touching with one of the best epilogues, wrapping me up in a warm, contented hug. I didn't want to say goodbye to any of the many amazing characters I met in Dear Stranger. I only wish their story could have gone on forever.
I was given an early copy to read and this is my honest review of it.
I loved this workplace enemies to more romance that pits top lawyers at the same firm, Brooks and Tenley, against each other while vying for a chance to become the next partner. One is smart, confident and the life of the party; the other, a self assured, meticulous, prickly loner. As a team, they balanced each other out, if only they could get along. Who will be the last person standing at the end of this impossible showdown and land that one and only coveted promotion?
Hard working with no time for a real relationship and nothing to lose, Tenley ends up clicking on an app- Blind Love, where 90 days of anonymous messaging is required before your chosen 'Stranger' can be unveiled. Intrigued when she 'meets' Stranger88, they form a deep bond, sharing secrets, hopes and dreams- more than they have with anyone else. Connecting with each other becomes the highlight of their days and nights, but what will happen when their true identities are revealed?
Dear Stranger is just another reason why Winter Renshaw continues to be one of my favorite one click authors. I could NOT put this book down- the story drew me in and her writing kept me there- I couldn't wait to see what happened next. These fiesty combatants could hurl zingers, truth bombs or witty insults with ease, but when they fell, there was no denying they were meant for each other, even if it took them a few minutes to figure that out.
Brooks was a charmer and rated high on my swoonworthy hero scale and Tenley, always strong, had a softer side that she liked to keep hidden. Both pulled tight on my heartstrings so many times, when emotions ran high, low and everything in between. With laughter, tears and unexpected turns, Brooks and Tenley's roundabout romance was sexy, sweet and touching with one of the best epilogues, wrapping me up in a warm, contented hug. I didn't want to say goodbye to any of the many amazing characters I met in Dear Stranger. I only wish their story could have gone on forever.
I was given an early copy to read and this is my honest review of it.
January 18, 2024
Winter Renshaw's "Dear Stranger" captivated me from the very first chapter, showcasing her unique storytelling style that weaves together an enemies-to-lovers narrative with a delightful spin. As the third installment in the Papercuts Series, this book undoubtedly stands out as the best, offering a compelling blend of snarky interactions, unexpected revelations, and lovable characters.
The workplace dynamic between Brooks and Tenley, two top lawyers vying for a coveted promotion, sets the stage for a gripping enemies-to-more romance. Brooks, charming and confident, and Tenley, self-assured and meticulous, make for a compelling pair with their dynamic balance. Their journey, filled with witty banter and unexpected twists, kept me eagerly turning the pages.
One of the standout aspects is Brooks's character, a lovable hero who ranks high on the swoonworthy scale. His side plot involving taking care of his sister and nephew adds depth and heart to the story, showcasing a different dimension of his character. However, Ellie, his sister, appears somewhat underdeveloped, with throwaway lines about her alcoholism and irresponsibility as a parent leaving her character feeling less nuanced than the potential hinted at.
Tenley's venture into the Blind Love app introduces a fascinating layer to the story, creating a connection with Stranger88 that goes beyond the professional battlefield. The anonymous messaging builds a deep bond between them, but the looming question of what happens when their true identities are unveiled adds a layer of anticipation and intrigue.
While the romantic journey between Brooks and Tenley is touching and sweet, some aspects left me yearning for more. Tenley's character, in particular, lacked proper closure, leaving unanswered questions about her personal journey. Additionally, the law firm partner dilemma, a central plot element, fell somewhat flat in its payoff, leaving me wanting a more satisfying resolution.
In conclusion, "Dear Stranger" is a rollercoaster of love, complications, and unexpected turns. Brooks and Tenley's roundabout romance is both sexy and heartwarming, but certain aspects, like Ellie's underdeveloped character and the law firm partner dilemma, leave room for improvement. Winter Renshaw's ability to craft lovable characters and deliver an engaging narrative keeps me hooked, yet a more comprehensive exploration of certain elements would have elevated the story even further.
The workplace dynamic between Brooks and Tenley, two top lawyers vying for a coveted promotion, sets the stage for a gripping enemies-to-more romance. Brooks, charming and confident, and Tenley, self-assured and meticulous, make for a compelling pair with their dynamic balance. Their journey, filled with witty banter and unexpected twists, kept me eagerly turning the pages.
One of the standout aspects is Brooks's character, a lovable hero who ranks high on the swoonworthy scale. His side plot involving taking care of his sister and nephew adds depth and heart to the story, showcasing a different dimension of his character. However, Ellie, his sister, appears somewhat underdeveloped, with throwaway lines about her alcoholism and irresponsibility as a parent leaving her character feeling less nuanced than the potential hinted at.
Tenley's venture into the Blind Love app introduces a fascinating layer to the story, creating a connection with Stranger88 that goes beyond the professional battlefield. The anonymous messaging builds a deep bond between them, but the looming question of what happens when their true identities are unveiled adds a layer of anticipation and intrigue.
While the romantic journey between Brooks and Tenley is touching and sweet, some aspects left me yearning for more. Tenley's character, in particular, lacked proper closure, leaving unanswered questions about her personal journey. Additionally, the law firm partner dilemma, a central plot element, fell somewhat flat in its payoff, leaving me wanting a more satisfying resolution.
In conclusion, "Dear Stranger" is a rollercoaster of love, complications, and unexpected turns. Brooks and Tenley's roundabout romance is both sexy and heartwarming, but certain aspects, like Ellie's underdeveloped character and the law firm partner dilemma, leave room for improvement. Winter Renshaw's ability to craft lovable characters and deliver an engaging narrative keeps me hooked, yet a more comprehensive exploration of certain elements would have elevated the story even further.
October 13, 2023
I liked it....a lot!
Dear Stranger is the third installment in the Paper Cuts Series and can be read as a standalone.
This is my favorite of the three, a slow burn, enemies to lovers troupe, two digital strangers, two work rivals.
If I were to explore every nook and cranny of this tale, I would have to give spoillers and, perhaps,
tarnish other readers' experience, so I'm going just to point out what, IMO, made this the greatest of the Series, so far.
The narrative felt like a set of similar things and conflicting wills.
Tenley and Brooks might seem very different from each other, but they are not. The way they project themselves to the others, specially in their workplace context, is the only thing that widely differs. Two very hard working lawyers with similar upbringings, a lot of misconceptions and judgemental thoughts, with a case to win, forced to work as a team for the utmost prize, one they ferociously dispute.
The thing was, Brooksy knew how to catch flies with honey whereas Tenley went with vinegar. You can already fathom where the sympathy scale impended.
A tension filled labour environtment with two rival professionals going at each others throats, while pouring out in words their worries, goals and dreams, as strangers in the night.
I loved the fact that there was a recognition of the other, their tenacity, value and competence that went both ways. As well, as many justifications to find anything, as tiny or insignificant as it might be, to dislike one another as much, rationalizing said dislike and the most outrageous attraction neither had ever felt. And, finally, those bitty specs of admiration and further connection in daylight shared through a screen, in the intimacy of the unknown.
Both protagonists were very good people with a sense of family and responsibility, proceddings of a life of struggle and resilience to go far and beyond. The success was important as was the money, but their volition to take care of people and make their lives better was truly aemirable.
Tenley and Brooks were an amazing couple that ended up meeting half way, reconciling their wills and wants, in the same direction rather than opposite paths.
It was really stronger what brought them together that what might keep them apart!
Loved it so much!
October 5, 2023
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐
"Sometimes, you just have to close your eyes, and jump."
💙 Workplace romance
💙 Online lovers
💙 Offline rivals/enemies
💙 Opposites attract
💙 Slow burn
💙 HEA
I never thought I would enjoy a book centered around a dating app but this was, by far, my favorite of the Paper Cuts series. Successful attorneys competing against one another for a partnership, Tenley and Brooks unknowingly became a match in an anonymous online romance. They had such a magnetic connection and an electric chemistry and I loved watching their story unfold.
What would happen when Tenley and Brooks discovered the identity of their online match was actually their real life work nemesis? What would happen when the fantasy became real? I loved seeing them peel back each other's layers, rethinking everything they had previously assumed. Both were driven by adversity in the past but they were so seemingly different. Opposites attracting, they truly complemented one another perfectly. I loved their snarky banter and the way they infuriated each other while getting under each other's skin, inevitably unable to resist the pull between them.
Fiercely independent and unapologetically ambitious, Tenley was inspiring as she helped with her work at the women's center. And Brooks is my newest book boyfriend! Confident, charming and charismatic, not to mention undeniably gorgeous, I couldn't help but swoon. And the way he was with his nephew, Jace, tugged at my heartstrings even more.
Tenley and Brooks became involved in a relationship that stressed the importance of finding trust in the face of an uncertain future. I loved how their story evolved and the way unanswered questions were answered after everything seemed like it was starting to fall apart after the third act breakup. Their journey towards forever was heartbreakingly beautiful and after a leap of faith, they ultimately proved that the risk of failing in love was completely outweighed by the reward.
* Special thanks to author Winter Renshaw for sending me this ARC to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available October 5, 2023. *
"Sometimes, you just have to close your eyes, and jump."
💙 Workplace romance
💙 Online lovers
💙 Offline rivals/enemies
💙 Opposites attract
💙 Slow burn
💙 HEA
I never thought I would enjoy a book centered around a dating app but this was, by far, my favorite of the Paper Cuts series. Successful attorneys competing against one another for a partnership, Tenley and Brooks unknowingly became a match in an anonymous online romance. They had such a magnetic connection and an electric chemistry and I loved watching their story unfold.
What would happen when Tenley and Brooks discovered the identity of their online match was actually their real life work nemesis? What would happen when the fantasy became real? I loved seeing them peel back each other's layers, rethinking everything they had previously assumed. Both were driven by adversity in the past but they were so seemingly different. Opposites attracting, they truly complemented one another perfectly. I loved their snarky banter and the way they infuriated each other while getting under each other's skin, inevitably unable to resist the pull between them.
Fiercely independent and unapologetically ambitious, Tenley was inspiring as she helped with her work at the women's center. And Brooks is my newest book boyfriend! Confident, charming and charismatic, not to mention undeniably gorgeous, I couldn't help but swoon. And the way he was with his nephew, Jace, tugged at my heartstrings even more.
Tenley and Brooks became involved in a relationship that stressed the importance of finding trust in the face of an uncertain future. I loved how their story evolved and the way unanswered questions were answered after everything seemed like it was starting to fall apart after the third act breakup. Their journey towards forever was heartbreakingly beautiful and after a leap of faith, they ultimately proved that the risk of failing in love was completely outweighed by the reward.
* Special thanks to author Winter Renshaw for sending me this ARC to read and review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available October 5, 2023. *
October 17, 2023
Great enemies to lovers reading!
DEAR STRANGER is book 3 in Author Winter Renshaw’s Paper Cuts Romance series and showcases the modern way of dating – it all starts online! No paper required.
While Tenley isn’t written as an immediately likable character, I admired her determination and felt sorry for her lack of social skills and apparent disinterest in other people even as I could feel her loneliness to the core. She had a background that had created the person she presented in her professional life. Her on-line persona as Stranger7721, however, was lively, flirty even, witty and irreverent. I loved this side of her, and so did Stranger88.
Brooks Gentry, was according to Tenley “infuriatingly gorgeous, tall and athletic and easy on the eyes” and an apparent office Lothario. He was the bane of her existence and seriously misunderstood, and I loved him from the start.
They had more in common than they could ever have imagined.
They might be new and finally on the same passionate page in life, but when the author puts one hell of a speed bump in the romantic road that her characters are on, it’s always the best part of the book to see how things are going to be resolved.
Can a book plot masquerade as both enemies-to-lovers AND insta-love tropes??? Because I tell you, when they do get together, it is hard and fast, and the switch definitely flips instantly from freezing to it’s all too hot and steamy in here!!! Ms Renshaw never fails to impress me with her books and she writes with lots of feelings, plenty of sympathy and love for her characters, and making this for must-have 5-Star reading! ❤️📨✮
#mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #marnsreads #marnsj
DEAR STRANGER is book 3 in Author Winter Renshaw’s Paper Cuts Romance series and showcases the modern way of dating – it all starts online! No paper required.
While Tenley isn’t written as an immediately likable character, I admired her determination and felt sorry for her lack of social skills and apparent disinterest in other people even as I could feel her loneliness to the core. She had a background that had created the person she presented in her professional life. Her on-line persona as Stranger7721, however, was lively, flirty even, witty and irreverent. I loved this side of her, and so did Stranger88.
Brooks Gentry, was according to Tenley “infuriatingly gorgeous, tall and athletic and easy on the eyes” and an apparent office Lothario. He was the bane of her existence and seriously misunderstood, and I loved him from the start.
They had more in common than they could ever have imagined.
They might be new and finally on the same passionate page in life, but when the author puts one hell of a speed bump in the romantic road that her characters are on, it’s always the best part of the book to see how things are going to be resolved.
Can a book plot masquerade as both enemies-to-lovers AND insta-love tropes??? Because I tell you, when they do get together, it is hard and fast, and the switch definitely flips instantly from freezing to it’s all too hot and steamy in here!!! Ms Renshaw never fails to impress me with her books and she writes with lots of feelings, plenty of sympathy and love for her characters, and making this for must-have 5-Star reading! ❤️📨✮
#mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #marnsreads #marnsj
October 5, 2023
This is the third instalment of the paper cut series, which can be read as standalones.
I love Tenley and Brooks' story. They are up for the same promotion, partner at the law firm they work at. They're enemies in the office, but due to a dating app that doesn't reveal the person's identity, they connect.
Tenley is fiercely independent and doesn't like to rely on anyone but herself due to her childhood trauma. She's fought her way to be in the position she's in now, and she's not going to let someone like Brooks get in her way.
Brooks is the guy everyone loves. He can charm anyone he looks at but not Tenley. He also had a rough childhood, but he also fought to get out of life, too.
I loved how they connected on the app but didn't like each other in real life. Sometimes, I suppose it's easier to say things to a stranger than someone you know. I thought it was really sad that Tenley didn't once mention hanging with her friends from the previous books. I know she is a workaholic, but it would've been nice to see some mention of her friends.
I loved how Brooks was with Jace. He's the best uncle ever. I felt sorry for Ellie, though, but also felt she was a little irresponsible with Jace. She shouldn't just assume Brooks was there every night to take care of him. She really needed to grow up.
I was happy that Tenley found her perfect match. She deserved to find someone to love and love her, and she found that in Brooks and his family and the women's shelter she volunteered at.
I'm sad the series has ended, but they have all been wonderful books. Look forward to reading more of Winter's books.
I love Tenley and Brooks' story. They are up for the same promotion, partner at the law firm they work at. They're enemies in the office, but due to a dating app that doesn't reveal the person's identity, they connect.
Tenley is fiercely independent and doesn't like to rely on anyone but herself due to her childhood trauma. She's fought her way to be in the position she's in now, and she's not going to let someone like Brooks get in her way.
Brooks is the guy everyone loves. He can charm anyone he looks at but not Tenley. He also had a rough childhood, but he also fought to get out of life, too.
I loved how they connected on the app but didn't like each other in real life. Sometimes, I suppose it's easier to say things to a stranger than someone you know. I thought it was really sad that Tenley didn't once mention hanging with her friends from the previous books. I know she is a workaholic, but it would've been nice to see some mention of her friends.
I loved how Brooks was with Jace. He's the best uncle ever. I felt sorry for Ellie, though, but also felt she was a little irresponsible with Jace. She shouldn't just assume Brooks was there every night to take care of him. She really needed to grow up.
I was happy that Tenley found her perfect match. She deserved to find someone to love and love her, and she found that in Brooks and his family and the women's shelter she volunteered at.
I'm sad the series has ended, but they have all been wonderful books. Look forward to reading more of Winter's books.
October 16, 2023
The beginning of this book was Winter at her best. Loved the banter between Brooks and Tenley at work- both lawyers fighting for the next partner position. Tenley is a book smart hard working dedicated lawyer who works overtime to prove herself (loved that she is a strong independent woman!). Brooks is also hard working but his good looks and charm make things easy for him. When they are assigned to work on a divorce case together, the 2 strong willed lawyers go to work to out do the other for the partner position at the firm. Meanwhile both have joined a dating network in hopes of finding a partner in life. When Stranger88 and Stranger7721 beginning talking through the app- sparks fly! One condition of the app is that they can not meet for 90 days so the strangers have time to get to know one another before meeting. Brooks and Tenley unknowingly are the ones talking on the app. Enemies by Day- Lovers by Night. One night while working late at work, Tenley notices Brooks smiling at his phone and at the same time receives a note from her stranger. She becomes suspicious that her Stranger is really Brooks from work. When they finally realize that their stranger is really each other- hot and steamy romance ensues.
My only critique is that their client who they were working so hard to win her case, suddenly is no longer in the story when the partners close the firm. Brooks and Tenley are out of work and the hurdle is to find another job near each other. I think it would have been a better story line if the firm closed and they were able to win the case together and start their own law firm.
Great angsty love story with a happy ending!
My only critique is that their client who they were working so hard to win her case, suddenly is no longer in the story when the partners close the firm. Brooks and Tenley are out of work and the hurdle is to find another job near each other. I think it would have been a better story line if the firm closed and they were able to win the case together and start their own law firm.
Great angsty love story with a happy ending!
October 8, 2023
Wonderful Characters
I loved this amazing heartwarming story. Tenley and Brooks work at the same law firm and are excellent Attorneys. Tenley is the investigative legal eagle, all business while Brooks is the outgoing lovable captivating litigator. Brooks and Tenley are in no way friendly. They actually hate each other! Both however are lonely for a partner so each has signed up on this new dating app, Blind Love. There are no names or photos allowed until after 90 days. I love the concept! After you set up your profile you are assigned a number. Brooks is Stranger 88 and Tenley is Stranger 7721. After reading many of the submissions Tenley chooses Stranger 88. His profile is odd and this starts a real connection between them. Neither can wait to get home each night just to “chat” I love their chats, getting to know the "real" person before you're face-to-face. They have so much in common. Meanwhile, at work, they are still at each other’s throats but they hurry home and talk to their “Stranger” for hours.
Even when Brooks and Tenley were at war over the Partner Promotion they were both competing for, they were inspiring. Brooks is helping his “lost” sister and her six-year-old son Jace. He moved them into his nice new bachelor condo which is now a mess and full of toys. But he loves them. Little Jace is such a wonderful kid. Tenley volunteers at the local women’s shelter.
“Dear Stranger” is a great story filled with fantastic characters. I received a free advanced copy of this story from Booksprout and these are my thoughts. Linda.
I loved this amazing heartwarming story. Tenley and Brooks work at the same law firm and are excellent Attorneys. Tenley is the investigative legal eagle, all business while Brooks is the outgoing lovable captivating litigator. Brooks and Tenley are in no way friendly. They actually hate each other! Both however are lonely for a partner so each has signed up on this new dating app, Blind Love. There are no names or photos allowed until after 90 days. I love the concept! After you set up your profile you are assigned a number. Brooks is Stranger 88 and Tenley is Stranger 7721. After reading many of the submissions Tenley chooses Stranger 88. His profile is odd and this starts a real connection between them. Neither can wait to get home each night just to “chat” I love their chats, getting to know the "real" person before you're face-to-face. They have so much in common. Meanwhile, at work, they are still at each other’s throats but they hurry home and talk to their “Stranger” for hours.
Even when Brooks and Tenley were at war over the Partner Promotion they were both competing for, they were inspiring. Brooks is helping his “lost” sister and her six-year-old son Jace. He moved them into his nice new bachelor condo which is now a mess and full of toys. But he loves them. Little Jace is such a wonderful kid. Tenley volunteers at the local women’s shelter.
“Dear Stranger” is a great story filled with fantastic characters. I received a free advanced copy of this story from Booksprout and these are my thoughts. Linda.
October 11, 2023
Tenley, the female lead, has been focused on the career destination since she was a child and saw her mother struggling. She’s never let anyone or thing distract her and now she’s only got one serious rival for the partner position at her law firm.
Brooks, the male lead and Tenley’s colleague and competition for the partner position, presents as a carefree playboy, persuasive and charming, succeeding easily in the courtroom and everywhere else.
They infuriate each other but there’s also a dose of unacknowledged mutual attraction. Then they’re told they must work together on an important case with this work being used to decide who becomes partner…
Concurrently, they’re matched on an app that doesn’t allow photos to be exchanged. Building a relationship with a stranger via messages, both reveal significant details about themselves but can their relationship be real?
This story is dual POV, well written, and an engaging rivals-to-lovers contemporary romance. I enjoyed the contrast between their office relationship and their app relationship, as well as the contrast between their perspectives on life, though they came from similar backgrounds. I enjoyed Tenley’s gradual relaxation and openness to possibilities other than what she’d first imagined. I enjoyed Brooks’ slowly narrowing focus and his care for Tenley’s mental health. I also appreciated the impact of secondary characters on each of them as well as their relationship.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brooks, the male lead and Tenley’s colleague and competition for the partner position, presents as a carefree playboy, persuasive and charming, succeeding easily in the courtroom and everywhere else.
They infuriate each other but there’s also a dose of unacknowledged mutual attraction. Then they’re told they must work together on an important case with this work being used to decide who becomes partner…
Concurrently, they’re matched on an app that doesn’t allow photos to be exchanged. Building a relationship with a stranger via messages, both reveal significant details about themselves but can their relationship be real?
This story is dual POV, well written, and an engaging rivals-to-lovers contemporary romance. I enjoyed the contrast between their office relationship and their app relationship, as well as the contrast between their perspectives on life, though they came from similar backgrounds. I enjoyed Tenley’s gradual relaxation and openness to possibilities other than what she’d first imagined. I enjoyed Brooks’ slowly narrowing focus and his care for Tenley’s mental health. I also appreciated the impact of secondary characters on each of them as well as their relationship.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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