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Filthy Rich
High finance and a sizzling office affair raise desire and passion to the boiling point in Virna DePaul’s seductive new contemporary romance—perfect for fans of Carly Phillips, Lori Foster, and Molly O’Keefe.
Cara Michal has had to fight every step of the way to earn her place in the glittering seven-figure world of Wall Street. Years ago her hardworking father, a small-time investment adviser, was humiliated and wrongfully accused of fraud. Now Cara is at the top of her game, trying to support not only herself but her mother and brother. The occasional night out dancing soothes Cara’s soul, even as a bitter need for revenge against the man who destroyed her father makes inner peace elusive.
Then, in a moment of heat, Cara kisses a sexy stranger at a party—only later to discover that the man is Branden Duke, her new boss, an infamous operator with a wicked reputation in bed and on the Street. Branden is a man who seemingly has it all—except a woman who connects with him on a physical and emotional level. Now that he’s found Cara, he’s not sure he can let her go, even if he should.
In spite of herself, Cara is drawn to this charismatic guy. He is a challenge like none she has ever faced in her life. Their passion for each other is unquenchable, surprising them both with its ferocity. Even as Cara wonders if she can trust this man with her heart and soul, the ecstasy of their love cannot be denied. But when the past threatens the present, the two are faced with a truth from which they may never recover.
Cara Michal has had to fight every step of the way to earn her place in the glittering seven-figure world of Wall Street. Years ago her hardworking father, a small-time investment adviser, was humiliated and wrongfully accused of fraud. Now Cara is at the top of her game, trying to support not only herself but her mother and brother. The occasional night out dancing soothes Cara’s soul, even as a bitter need for revenge against the man who destroyed her father makes inner peace elusive.
Then, in a moment of heat, Cara kisses a sexy stranger at a party—only later to discover that the man is Branden Duke, her new boss, an infamous operator with a wicked reputation in bed and on the Street. Branden is a man who seemingly has it all—except a woman who connects with him on a physical and emotional level. Now that he’s found Cara, he’s not sure he can let her go, even if he should.
In spite of herself, Cara is drawn to this charismatic guy. He is a challenge like none she has ever faced in her life. Their passion for each other is unquenchable, surprising them both with its ferocity. Even as Cara wonders if she can trust this man with her heart and soul, the ecstasy of their love cannot be denied. But when the past threatens the present, the two are faced with a truth from which they may never recover.
356 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 27, 2015
174 people are currently reading
1571 people want to read
About the author
Virna DePaul
127 books987 followersA former prosecutor, Virna DePaul writes "heat, heart, & HEA" for Harlequin and Random House. She is also a bestselling Indie author, with Bedding The Wrong Brother being a top 100 contemporary romance on Amazon with over 150 5* reviews. www.virnadepaul.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 28, 2015
2 Stars
I've loved everything else I've ever read from this author, so I was excited to see she had a new book coming out. The synopsis intrigued me and it sounded like I'd be in for another steamy read from the fabulous Virna Depaul. Unfortunately, there were just too many things working against this book for me to ever truly enjoy it.
I struggled with my rating, but I figure per GR's explanation; it was just OK, so 2 stars it is.
Cara Michal is a hard hitter on Wall Street. After her father's death, she's been the main bread winner for her family; supporting not only her mother but her brother as well. Her career is everything to her and she won't let anything or any one jeopardize it. But then a sexy stranger she meets at a party tilts her carefully conducted life on it's axis.
When it turns out that the stranger isn't some stranger after all; but is in fact the new owner of the financial institution that Cara works for, their brewing sexual chemistry becomes even more inconvenient.
Now the premise for this book was great. I loved the set and where I though the story was going. My main issue is I found a good chunk of the book to be pure filler; unnecessary information that did nothing to drive the actual plot. It was draining to read and often took me completely out of the story. I think this could have easily been trimmed by almost 30-40% if I'm being perfectly honest.
My second issue was with Cara. Her indecisiveness drove me nuts. She wants him, but she can't have him, she'll cave in, but it won't go further than that. Rinse, lather, and repeat ad nauseam. Ultimately though, here's a woman that refuses to be "kept" and struggles to be seen as an equal in a mainly male dominated profession, yet she's taking risks by having sexual encounters with her boss at work. It just seemed like she'd cave in too easily that all her internal arguments for her profession were moot.
Then there were the sex scenes. Perhaps I'm just desensitized to erotic books that I've become picky, but personally the word "penis" in a sex scene does absolutely nothing for me. Particularly in an explicit one.
Making love to his penis? Are we actually waxing on poetic about a blow job here?
Le sigh.
Then add in a random stalker to throw in some suspense and I was altogether underwhelmed.
I did love Braden's intensity. Virna DePaul definitely knows how to write a super sexy alpha. Unfortunately while there were parts that I did enjoy, the negatives simply outweighed the enjoyment for me. I'm still a huge fan of this author and will gladly read any of her future releases. We simply can't love them all, and this was just that case for me. I recommend you read it and judge for yourself. I tend to be a highly critical and picky reader; so you never know, it just may work for you.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
I've loved everything else I've ever read from this author, so I was excited to see she had a new book coming out. The synopsis intrigued me and it sounded like I'd be in for another steamy read from the fabulous Virna Depaul. Unfortunately, there were just too many things working against this book for me to ever truly enjoy it.
I struggled with my rating, but I figure per GR's explanation; it was just OK, so 2 stars it is.
Cara Michal is a hard hitter on Wall Street. After her father's death, she's been the main bread winner for her family; supporting not only her mother but her brother as well. Her career is everything to her and she won't let anything or any one jeopardize it. But then a sexy stranger she meets at a party tilts her carefully conducted life on it's axis.
When it turns out that the stranger isn't some stranger after all; but is in fact the new owner of the financial institution that Cara works for, their brewing sexual chemistry becomes even more inconvenient.
Now the premise for this book was great. I loved the set and where I though the story was going. My main issue is I found a good chunk of the book to be pure filler; unnecessary information that did nothing to drive the actual plot. It was draining to read and often took me completely out of the story. I think this could have easily been trimmed by almost 30-40% if I'm being perfectly honest.
My second issue was with Cara. Her indecisiveness drove me nuts. She wants him, but she can't have him, she'll cave in, but it won't go further than that. Rinse, lather, and repeat ad nauseam. Ultimately though, here's a woman that refuses to be "kept" and struggles to be seen as an equal in a mainly male dominated profession, yet she's taking risks by having sexual encounters with her boss at work. It just seemed like she'd cave in too easily that all her internal arguments for her profession were moot.
Then there were the sex scenes. Perhaps I'm just desensitized to erotic books that I've become picky, but personally the word "penis" in a sex scene does absolutely nothing for me. Particularly in an explicit one.
When she felt his fingers there she sucked them into her mouth, making love to them the same way she'd made love to his penis just a little while ago."
Making love to his penis? Are we actually waxing on poetic about a blow job here?
"My fingers are inside you."
"No! I want your penis inside me."
Le sigh.
Then add in a random stalker to throw in some suspense and I was altogether underwhelmed.
I did love Braden's intensity. Virna DePaul definitely knows how to write a super sexy alpha. Unfortunately while there were parts that I did enjoy, the negatives simply outweighed the enjoyment for me. I'm still a huge fan of this author and will gladly read any of her future releases. We simply can't love them all, and this was just that case for me. I recommend you read it and judge for yourself. I tend to be a highly critical and picky reader; so you never know, it just may work for you.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
June 16, 2017
***** 3.5 Stars *****
I wasn't expecting this story to have some mystery involved. The puzzle was intriguing and probably the only reason why I finished the book. Unfortunately, I thought some of the supporting characters were more interesting than Cara and Branden.
I had high hopes for this one, but I just didn't really get into it. The sex positions were hot, but the writing and descriptions of the scenes took away my enjoyment.
I wasn't expecting this story to have some mystery involved. The puzzle was intriguing and probably the only reason why I finished the book. Unfortunately, I thought some of the supporting characters were more interesting than Cara and Branden.
I had high hopes for this one, but I just didn't really get into it. The sex positions were hot, but the writing and descriptions of the scenes took away my enjoyment.
July 16, 2015
Very Enjoyable read!!
Short overview of the synopsis of the book. We have Brandon who is very well off (yes, Filthy Rich) who just purchased a Wall Street Company. The heroine Kara works for the same Company that Brandon purchased.
They met at a party that was being thrown by Brandon. Kara had come to the party with a date that was a dud. She didn't like what was happening at the party and the atmosphere. She wanders the home (Brandon's home) and escapes to an upstairs room. She falls asleep on a couch and wakes up to Brandon leaning over her as if he's going to kiss her. Instant attraction on both sides, a little dialogue,a kiss and then Kara quickly leaves. The following morning Kara arrives at work and meets the new owner of the Company, a surprise for both hero and heroine, as each recognizes the other from the other night.
I really like this book. It was well written with some great characters, both main and secondary, and the book flowed beautifully. I started it at 9PM and couldn't put it down till I was done at 1AM. I liked the main characters and how their relationship developed. They both resisted getting involved at first but the pull was too strong. Good relationship development, adult communication and conversation. We have mystery and suspense interwoven in the story. And of course a hot and sexy romance. But my only observation or complaint was at times the sex scenes lack connection between the two characters (hence the four star rating) . But all in all a very well written and hot read!
Netgalley for an honest review.
Netgalley for an honest review
Short overview of the synopsis of the book. We have Brandon who is very well off (yes, Filthy Rich) who just purchased a Wall Street Company. The heroine Kara works for the same Company that Brandon purchased.
They met at a party that was being thrown by Brandon. Kara had come to the party with a date that was a dud. She didn't like what was happening at the party and the atmosphere. She wanders the home (Brandon's home) and escapes to an upstairs room. She falls asleep on a couch and wakes up to Brandon leaning over her as if he's going to kiss her. Instant attraction on both sides, a little dialogue,a kiss and then Kara quickly leaves. The following morning Kara arrives at work and meets the new owner of the Company, a surprise for both hero and heroine, as each recognizes the other from the other night.
I really like this book. It was well written with some great characters, both main and secondary, and the book flowed beautifully. I started it at 9PM and couldn't put it down till I was done at 1AM. I liked the main characters and how their relationship developed. They both resisted getting involved at first but the pull was too strong. Good relationship development, adult communication and conversation. We have mystery and suspense interwoven in the story. And of course a hot and sexy romance. But my only observation or complaint was at times the sex scenes lack connection between the two characters (hence the four star rating) . But all in all a very well written and hot read!
Netgalley for an honest review.
Netgalley for an honest review
September 23, 2015
ARC received for review
Great romantic suspense. Brandon is a hot billionaire who takes great care of his six half or step-sisters. (I'm thinking great series here.) Cara could and did hold her own against him. I sure didn't see that person as the bad guy.
Great romantic suspense. Brandon is a hot billionaire who takes great care of his six half or step-sisters. (I'm thinking great series here.) Cara could and did hold her own against him. I sure didn't see that person as the bad guy.
October 3, 2015
3.5 Vindication Stars * * * 1/2
This was another delicious surprise from my hunting on NetGalley. I was not familiar with the author but this man on the cover, title of the book and then the smart, intriguing blurb caused me to request it. I am glad I did and will be looking into other books by Virna DePaul.
What we have is a situation which touches on more than standard surprise meet of an early encounter...what is more is the attention to detail of Business at its highest level with all of the manipulation and corruption which can take place....Along with a very commanding, sexy man and the woman he becomes involved with.
Both of these characters have backstories which if become known early in the development with each other would have huge ramifications...They both struggle for they are drawn deeply and there are intense feelings at stake.
These two go against everything they usually do...have a hidden romance.
It is compelling and the plot points, the suspense and chemistry holds all of it together.
If you like a little drama, intrigue and have interest in high finance beside wanting a hot romance to enjoy...then this would be your ticket.
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Bantam via NetGalley for an honest review.>
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
This was another delicious surprise from my hunting on NetGalley. I was not familiar with the author but this man on the cover, title of the book and then the smart, intriguing blurb caused me to request it. I am glad I did and will be looking into other books by Virna DePaul.
What we have is a situation which touches on more than standard surprise meet of an early encounter...what is more is the attention to detail of Business at its highest level with all of the manipulation and corruption which can take place....Along with a very commanding, sexy man and the woman he becomes involved with.
Both of these characters have backstories which if become known early in the development with each other would have huge ramifications...They both struggle for they are drawn deeply and there are intense feelings at stake.
These two go against everything they usually do...have a hidden romance.
It is compelling and the plot points, the suspense and chemistry holds all of it together.
If you like a little drama, intrigue and have interest in high finance beside wanting a hot romance to enjoy...then this would be your ticket.
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Bantam via NetGalley for an honest review.>
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 27, 2015
Well, this book was hot and twisty!
This is my first read from Virna DePaul and, wow, I'm so glad I found it! Not only is this author a fabulous story teller, but also one who appreciates the need for lots of angst, mystery and rivalry, which is mixed with the perfect amount of love and sex. Although I thought the book was slow to start (a bit too much whiny girl for my taste with too many lengthy monologues), it quickly moved onto more interesting topics - mainly that of our H, Branden Duke. He is not your average rich and entitled H, but one who is emotionally present and caring with the need to make everything right in the world. Enter our h, Cara, into his life. What we don't know is how much their lives are already intertwined, which is what makes this a great book. One thing I didn't expect was the ending. I was completely shocked, to say the least. Everyone I suspected of being bad turned out to be the complete opposite. I just love it when that happens!
Will I read another book by Ms. DePaul? Absolutely!
*ARC provided by the author via NetGalley
This is my first read from Virna DePaul and, wow, I'm so glad I found it! Not only is this author a fabulous story teller, but also one who appreciates the need for lots of angst, mystery and rivalry, which is mixed with the perfect amount of love and sex. Although I thought the book was slow to start (a bit too much whiny girl for my taste with too many lengthy monologues), it quickly moved onto more interesting topics - mainly that of our H, Branden Duke. He is not your average rich and entitled H, but one who is emotionally present and caring with the need to make everything right in the world. Enter our h, Cara, into his life. What we don't know is how much their lives are already intertwined, which is what makes this a great book. One thing I didn't expect was the ending. I was completely shocked, to say the least. Everyone I suspected of being bad turned out to be the complete opposite. I just love it when that happens!
Will I read another book by Ms. DePaul? Absolutely!
*ARC provided by the author via NetGalley
July 5, 2022
First time trying this writer. My fave workplace trope so I’d go easy on the review. The writing was pretty good, detailed and fun use of fast metaphors! Have to look out for other books from this writer.
The plot itself had some triggers so I won’t say it sat that great with me. Cara is your above avg blonde working at a Wall Street firm. There’s a work party where her date abandons her and she strolls off to conveniently grab shut eye in someone’s most private territory. Guess Cara didn’t learn much from her Wall Street etiquettes to NOT barge into someone’s bedroom.
She’s awoken by the H who kisses her good and sends her back with his chauffeur. Next day at work, he’s the new boss.
Cara was pretty needy. She said one thing to her slutty friend and did the opposite. So there really wasn’t much of a line between Cara and her friend while Cara pretended like she was the good girl. Cara has obv had enough bfs in her life and she isn’t a v either.
The boss wants to get in her pants and Cara pretends to slow it down. There is some print out of her picture coming out of the boss’s house with morning-after hair and of course Cara can’t wait to exchange notes with her boss on that.
DNF at 50%. The boss invites her for dinner at his penthouse and Cara shuns all integrity and begs to be taken hard. Nope
Another failed office ro(ho)mance !
The plot itself had some triggers so I won’t say it sat that great with me. Cara is your above avg blonde working at a Wall Street firm. There’s a work party where her date abandons her and she strolls off to conveniently grab shut eye in someone’s most private territory. Guess Cara didn’t learn much from her Wall Street etiquettes to NOT barge into someone’s bedroom.
She’s awoken by the H who kisses her good and sends her back with his chauffeur. Next day at work, he’s the new boss.
Cara was pretty needy. She said one thing to her slutty friend and did the opposite. So there really wasn’t much of a line between Cara and her friend while Cara pretended like she was the good girl. Cara has obv had enough bfs in her life and she isn’t a v either.
The boss wants to get in her pants and Cara pretends to slow it down. There is some print out of her picture coming out of the boss’s house with morning-after hair and of course Cara can’t wait to exchange notes with her boss on that.
DNF at 50%. The boss invites her for dinner at his penthouse and Cara shuns all integrity and begs to be taken hard. Nope
Another failed office ro(ho)mance !
September 13, 2016
Filthy Rich was a pretty quick read for me. One of things that initially drew me to this story was the cover and synopsis. It intrigued me, so I decided to give it a try.
Cara has had a hard life. She works hard to take care of her family. She desperately needs some time off, but barley has a moment to think. While Cara is at a work event, she has an encounter with a stranger. This stranger makes her feel alive and makes her realize the connection that she’s been missing. But, before things can go further than a steamy, hot kiss; she disappears into the night. Little did she know that this will not be the last that she sees of said stranger…..Branden has it all: good looks, money, and a bad boy reputation. But, the short time that he spent with Cara really made an impact on him. He can’t get her off of his mind. And to make matters worse, he finds out that Cara is now his employee. He knows that starting something with her could be bad, but neither one of them are really ready to let go….But, what will happen when the past collides with the present?
One of the biggest issues I had with this story was the wording in the sexual situations. The use of the word penis is a very big pet peeve on mine. When I think of the word penis, I think of medical terminology, or talking to a child about body parts. Maybe it’s just me, but there is nothing sexy about the word penis and when I see it used, it actually makes me cringe. Again, that is just my opinion.
My other issue was the development of Cara and Branden’s relationship. Don’t get me wrong, I think the two of them had excellent chemistry, but they both left me wanting more. Their connection felt like one of insta-love, and for a book that is almost 400 pages long, I feel like we should have seen their relationship develop more.
Overall, Filthy Rich was an ok read. I think it will be one of those books that you’ll either love or hate, and like I said for me, it was just ok. I really liked the idea of the story. The synopsis really pulled me in. I was really intrigued by Branden. He had a lot of mystery to him and I wanted to know what his story was. And while I did have some issues with this book, there was no shortage of steam, sexy times and romance. I really enjoyed the mystery and suspense of the story. There were a lot of great twists and a few that really took me by surprise.
This is my first book by this author and even though it wasn’t a complete hit for me, I’d be open to checking out more of her books in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Cara has had a hard life. She works hard to take care of her family. She desperately needs some time off, but barley has a moment to think. While Cara is at a work event, she has an encounter with a stranger. This stranger makes her feel alive and makes her realize the connection that she’s been missing. But, before things can go further than a steamy, hot kiss; she disappears into the night. Little did she know that this will not be the last that she sees of said stranger…..Branden has it all: good looks, money, and a bad boy reputation. But, the short time that he spent with Cara really made an impact on him. He can’t get her off of his mind. And to make matters worse, he finds out that Cara is now his employee. He knows that starting something with her could be bad, but neither one of them are really ready to let go….But, what will happen when the past collides with the present?
One of the biggest issues I had with this story was the wording in the sexual situations. The use of the word penis is a very big pet peeve on mine. When I think of the word penis, I think of medical terminology, or talking to a child about body parts. Maybe it’s just me, but there is nothing sexy about the word penis and when I see it used, it actually makes me cringe. Again, that is just my opinion.
My other issue was the development of Cara and Branden’s relationship. Don’t get me wrong, I think the two of them had excellent chemistry, but they both left me wanting more. Their connection felt like one of insta-love, and for a book that is almost 400 pages long, I feel like we should have seen their relationship develop more.
Overall, Filthy Rich was an ok read. I think it will be one of those books that you’ll either love or hate, and like I said for me, it was just ok. I really liked the idea of the story. The synopsis really pulled me in. I was really intrigued by Branden. He had a lot of mystery to him and I wanted to know what his story was. And while I did have some issues with this book, there was no shortage of steam, sexy times and romance. I really enjoyed the mystery and suspense of the story. There were a lot of great twists and a few that really took me by surprise.
This is my first book by this author and even though it wasn’t a complete hit for me, I’d be open to checking out more of her books in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
July 17, 2015
When reading this blurb I was half expecting this book to be like a 50 shades book but to my surprise is wasn't at all, although he one thing they have in common was a wealthy, sexy CEO. I really got into the plot of this book. I actually thought it was the best part while reading. It was unique and keep me entertained.
Cara goes to party with a coworker and ends up making out with a sexy stranger. The next day she finds out that Branden just bought the company. Although she is determined not to start anything thing with him she can't help herself.
Branden bought this company to help get to the bottom of some shady investments. He wasn't expecting to like Cara of start something with her. But the attraction between them is something that won't be denied. Although Branden is alpha he has these moments were he is just sweet in wanting to be with her and protect Cara.
I really enjoyed that this plot was a Wall Street type and not the usual boss and employee romance. Although these two are strangers they are connected by their past which was interesting. The mystery behind who was sending the Emails and other stuff was very intriguing. Every time I guessed someone I found out I was wrong.
I liked characters and how they interacted with one another. Cara was really independent which I loved. She was strong and took care of her family. Branden had good business sense and loved and took care of his family. You could see these two were a power couple and actually inseparable.
The sex scenes were in great detail and went on for pages. Plus there was a lot of them. I found this was a different different book then I am used to from DePaul but it was enjoyable.
The ending caught me off guard a little so the person who was causing all this trouble ends up dead from trying to get away by falling down an elevator shaft. That parted just reminded me of a day time soap. As far as the ending for the couple I was happy with it. No marriage and no babies but you can see it in their future.
I am interested to see if this will become a series since Branden has like 5 sisters and they are mentioned. DePaul did an outstanding job making this book different. I enjoyed it and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
Cara goes to party with a coworker and ends up making out with a sexy stranger. The next day she finds out that Branden just bought the company. Although she is determined not to start anything thing with him she can't help herself.
Branden bought this company to help get to the bottom of some shady investments. He wasn't expecting to like Cara of start something with her. But the attraction between them is something that won't be denied. Although Branden is alpha he has these moments were he is just sweet in wanting to be with her and protect Cara.
I really enjoyed that this plot was a Wall Street type and not the usual boss and employee romance. Although these two are strangers they are connected by their past which was interesting. The mystery behind who was sending the Emails and other stuff was very intriguing. Every time I guessed someone I found out I was wrong.
I liked characters and how they interacted with one another. Cara was really independent which I loved. She was strong and took care of her family. Branden had good business sense and loved and took care of his family. You could see these two were a power couple and actually inseparable.
The sex scenes were in great detail and went on for pages. Plus there was a lot of them. I found this was a different different book then I am used to from DePaul but it was enjoyable.
The ending caught me off guard a little so the person who was causing all this trouble ends up dead from trying to get away by falling down an elevator shaft. That parted just reminded me of a day time soap. As far as the ending for the couple I was happy with it. No marriage and no babies but you can see it in their future.
I am interested to see if this will become a series since Branden has like 5 sisters and they are mentioned. DePaul did an outstanding job making this book different. I enjoyed it and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2015
Sizzling sex, a suspenseful story and The Duke. All things that make this book from Virna DePaul a fast-paced, enjoyable read, no doubt about it.
Cara Michal is a hard-worker. After seeing her father destroyed by false accusations, she’s strived to be the best, but the least-noticed, in the male-dominated world of Wall Street. But that becomes difficult when an out-of-character kiss with a stranger—a stranger who turns out to be her new boss, the charming, sexy-as-sin and elusive, Branden Duke no less—starts a chain of events that threatens her reputation, her career…and maybe even her life.
I was really surprised by this book. I went into it a little blind, having not read anything by Ms. DePaul previously, and also having mostly forgotten the blurb that made me grab it in the first place. And it started a little slow for my liking—not necessarily slow slow, since that kiss, WHOA… No, more like it took me a little time to find a connection to Cara, who was dependable, hard-working and a little *gulp* bland at first glance.
BUT, and this is a big but (hence the shouty caps LOL), she really grew on me. She’d had a rough past, and she was kind, smart and no pushover when it came to Branden, which I really appreciated. I came to like her, a lot. And my heart pounded as her relationship with Branden (The Duke, great nickname, IMHO), and the sinister subplot that accompanied it, came to a head in a gripping way.
Filthy Rich was, simply put, a very enjoyable, easy-to-read and surprisingly suspenseful story, featuring a likeable lady and a handsome, swoony man who loves his sisters—which FYI was one of my favorite things about Branden. So much so, that I wished we’d gotten a little more on the ending featuring them and his girl, Cara. But no matter, because if this turns out to be part of series, then I will be back for more…and maybe I’ll get to know those sisters a little better then?! *cough Alex and Leslie cough* ~ Beth, 4 stars
Cara Michal is a hard-worker. After seeing her father destroyed by false accusations, she’s strived to be the best, but the least-noticed, in the male-dominated world of Wall Street. But that becomes difficult when an out-of-character kiss with a stranger—a stranger who turns out to be her new boss, the charming, sexy-as-sin and elusive, Branden Duke no less—starts a chain of events that threatens her reputation, her career…and maybe even her life.
I was really surprised by this book. I went into it a little blind, having not read anything by Ms. DePaul previously, and also having mostly forgotten the blurb that made me grab it in the first place. And it started a little slow for my liking—not necessarily slow slow, since that kiss, WHOA… No, more like it took me a little time to find a connection to Cara, who was dependable, hard-working and a little *gulp* bland at first glance.
BUT, and this is a big but (hence the shouty caps LOL), she really grew on me. She’d had a rough past, and she was kind, smart and no pushover when it came to Branden, which I really appreciated. I came to like her, a lot. And my heart pounded as her relationship with Branden (The Duke, great nickname, IMHO), and the sinister subplot that accompanied it, came to a head in a gripping way.
Filthy Rich was, simply put, a very enjoyable, easy-to-read and surprisingly suspenseful story, featuring a likeable lady and a handsome, swoony man who loves his sisters—which FYI was one of my favorite things about Branden. So much so, that I wished we’d gotten a little more on the ending featuring them and his girl, Cara. But no matter, because if this turns out to be part of series, then I will be back for more…and maybe I’ll get to know those sisters a little better then?! *cough Alex and Leslie cough* ~ Beth, 4 stars
June 5, 2023
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
Filthy rich is an standalone romance novel by Virna DePaul.
Cara hasn't had an easy life. Her father died young and it seemed that after this her family fell apart. Her mom never recovered from the death and her brother was diagnosed to schizophrenia. She the one who has to keep it together and make money to take care of her family.
When she meets Brandon Duke she's spellbound and immediately drawn to him.
Brandon is a self made billionaire on Wall Street. When he buys D&M it's not his first concern to earn money with it. He's helping the SEC to investigate.
When he meets Cara he wants to get her in his bed.
When they get closer to each other a stalker makes their life a living hell, but even though they're both concerned they stick with each other.
To be honest I don’t know what to think. On one hand I really enjoyed the story, on the other hand I didn't really know what to think. There was so much I didn't need to know, kind of as a filler to make the book seem longer. Both of them have their fair share of too long monologues, that was kind of exhausting.
3.5 Stars
Filthy rich is an standalone romance novel by Virna DePaul.
Cara hasn't had an easy life. Her father died young and it seemed that after this her family fell apart. Her mom never recovered from the death and her brother was diagnosed to schizophrenia. She the one who has to keep it together and make money to take care of her family.
When she meets Brandon Duke she's spellbound and immediately drawn to him.
Brandon is a self made billionaire on Wall Street. When he buys D&M it's not his first concern to earn money with it. He's helping the SEC to investigate.
When he meets Cara he wants to get her in his bed.
When they get closer to each other a stalker makes their life a living hell, but even though they're both concerned they stick with each other.
To be honest I don’t know what to think. On one hand I really enjoyed the story, on the other hand I didn't really know what to think. There was so much I didn't need to know, kind of as a filler to make the book seem longer. Both of them have their fair share of too long monologues, that was kind of exhausting.
October 26, 2015
Shelly's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
Sexy, domineering, boss trying to get into the independent, hard working woman's heart.
Cara has had a hard life, after her father died after he was accused of losing the town's money. Cara has taken on the responsibility of taking care of her depressed mother and schizophrenic brother. She is a hard worker, independent and doesn’t take much time for herself with taking care of her family, until she has a run in with the new boss and can’t seem to keep her hands off him.
Branden buys the company Cara works for and is investigating the company with the SEC, but Cara has sparked his interest and he plans on claiming her, but they will have to deal with a stalker who is throwing Cara all out of sorts and her independence as well.
I thought there was a lot of extra that didn’t need to be in the book to make it flow better. I was hoping as I continued to read the story would continue to flow better, but there was still a lot of extra filler that dragged the book out. This was a good read and I enjoyed it, just could have done without all the extra filler.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Sexy, domineering, boss trying to get into the independent, hard working woman's heart.
Cara has had a hard life, after her father died after he was accused of losing the town's money. Cara has taken on the responsibility of taking care of her depressed mother and schizophrenic brother. She is a hard worker, independent and doesn’t take much time for herself with taking care of her family, until she has a run in with the new boss and can’t seem to keep her hands off him.
Branden buys the company Cara works for and is investigating the company with the SEC, but Cara has sparked his interest and he plans on claiming her, but they will have to deal with a stalker who is throwing Cara all out of sorts and her independence as well.
I thought there was a lot of extra that didn’t need to be in the book to make it flow better. I was hoping as I continued to read the story would continue to flow better, but there was still a lot of extra filler that dragged the book out. This was a good read and I enjoyed it, just could have done without all the extra filler.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 21, 2015
Sometimes what you expect from a book is nothing like what it really is once you delve into the story. This book screamed out a plot typical of other billionaire romances but in actuality it is more of a suspense read with the romance thrown in.
The author created two characters that were not necessarily who you expected to be together. I love a strong women as a main lead and this gal was smart and strong. She worked hard and was proud of that fact. Branden is a fabulous looking, smart guy, perfect for Cara. Together they made a strong team against the stalker and issues in business.
I loved the twists and turns that the author brought into this suspense read. The plot has some backbone and was not just steamy scenes over and over, although that never hurts!
Overall, this was a pleasurable read that was entertaining, well thought out and not a typical billionaire romance. The author did a good job and I enjoyed every part. Definitely keeping an eye out for more from Virna DePaul.
The author created two characters that were not necessarily who you expected to be together. I love a strong women as a main lead and this gal was smart and strong. She worked hard and was proud of that fact. Branden is a fabulous looking, smart guy, perfect for Cara. Together they made a strong team against the stalker and issues in business.
I loved the twists and turns that the author brought into this suspense read. The plot has some backbone and was not just steamy scenes over and over, although that never hurts!
Overall, this was a pleasurable read that was entertaining, well thought out and not a typical billionaire romance. The author did a good job and I enjoyed every part. Definitely keeping an eye out for more from Virna DePaul.
November 11, 2015
I have to admit that I struggled with this book and almost stopped reading it at one point, but I hate to not give a book a fair shot. I liked Branden and Cara but for most of this book it just drug on for me and I caught self skipping pages just to hurry it up.
October 15, 2015
Definitely made a mistake when I requested this one from NetGalley. One of the more un-feminist romances I've read in quite some time.
Wall Street broker Cara Michal falls asleep on the couch at a party, and wakes up to find a handsome hunk standing over her. The two end up kissing, despite Cara's reservations, but Cara insists on leaving before anything too hot and heavy can happen. Next day, turns out that the kissing hunk has just bought the brokerage firm where Cara works. No way can she burn up the sheets with her boss, can she?
Hunky financier Branden Duke (lord, had to laugh when I first encountered that cheesy name!) is not only a rich guy; he's working with the FBI to track down brokers gone bad. Of course, buying an entire company is the way to ferret out the one or two bad guys working there...
Branden knows it's bad policy to pursue an employee, but he can't seem to control himself around the empty placeholder/stand-in for the reader that is Cara. Seems he's never felt this way about a woman before, she's just so unique, he can't stop himself, etc. etc. For her part, Cara does the annoying "no, no"/"yes yes"/"no no" dance—refusing Branden, then giving in to him, then finding another reason to refuse him, which leads him to insist on having his way with her again, which leads to her caving in again...
We also have the annoying "she's a good person because she's nice to/self-sacrificing for her mentally ill sibling" thing; the inattentive/weak mother thing (times 2); the "she's good because she comes from the wrong side of the tracks" thing; the "I can't love anybody, it's too big a risk" thing; the "overprotective (i.e., overbearing) hero" thing; the "proving my masculinity/love by beating up the guys who insult my woman" thing; the woman who tells him no but then gets angry when he doesn't chase her down thing; and the gross "let's read the diary of a madman so we can experience his sexist ravings," even after he's been caught and poses no more threat thing.
Oh, and the bad guy comes out of nowhere, and is dispatched just as quickly, so we can get to more flat sex scenes.
I won't even go into the poor writing, since this is, after all, an ARC...
Favorite (not) line: "He'd heard her when she'd argued against being controlled. He'd known, somehow, that her arguments had been a subtle message that she'd in fact wanted to. To be taken care of. To have someone else take control and let her simply be. I should protest. Shouldn't I? But she didn't." (Kindle Loc 2794)
Wall Street broker Cara Michal falls asleep on the couch at a party, and wakes up to find a handsome hunk standing over her. The two end up kissing, despite Cara's reservations, but Cara insists on leaving before anything too hot and heavy can happen. Next day, turns out that the kissing hunk has just bought the brokerage firm where Cara works. No way can she burn up the sheets with her boss, can she?
Hunky financier Branden Duke (lord, had to laugh when I first encountered that cheesy name!) is not only a rich guy; he's working with the FBI to track down brokers gone bad. Of course, buying an entire company is the way to ferret out the one or two bad guys working there...
Branden knows it's bad policy to pursue an employee, but he can't seem to control himself around the empty placeholder/stand-in for the reader that is Cara. Seems he's never felt this way about a woman before, she's just so unique, he can't stop himself, etc. etc. For her part, Cara does the annoying "no, no"/"yes yes"/"no no" dance—refusing Branden, then giving in to him, then finding another reason to refuse him, which leads him to insist on having his way with her again, which leads to her caving in again...
We also have the annoying "she's a good person because she's nice to/self-sacrificing for her mentally ill sibling" thing; the inattentive/weak mother thing (times 2); the "she's good because she comes from the wrong side of the tracks" thing; the "I can't love anybody, it's too big a risk" thing; the "overprotective (i.e., overbearing) hero" thing; the "proving my masculinity/love by beating up the guys who insult my woman" thing; the woman who tells him no but then gets angry when he doesn't chase her down thing; and the gross "let's read the diary of a madman so we can experience his sexist ravings," even after he's been caught and poses no more threat thing.
Oh, and the bad guy comes out of nowhere, and is dispatched just as quickly, so we can get to more flat sex scenes.
I won't even go into the poor writing, since this is, after all, an ARC...
Favorite (not) line: "He'd heard her when she'd argued against being controlled. He'd known, somehow, that her arguments had been a subtle message that she'd in fact wanted to. To be taken care of. To have someone else take control and let her simply be. I should protest. Shouldn't I? But she didn't." (Kindle Loc 2794)
October 16, 2015
This was a great read. I was pulled in on page one and it never let up, I actually had the book pulled from my hands with my husband telling me "It's late go to sleep" I reluctantly gave in and as soon as I woke up the book was back in my hands reading until I absolutely had to get up and start my day. It's safe to say that although this is my first read by author Virna DePaul, it will not be my last.
Cara was a breath of fresh air, she is very different from many of the heroines you find in alpha romance books, she is strong willed, hardworking, responsible, and extremely independent. Cara has had a rough life, she had a great childhood but things beyond her control rocked her world as a teenager and it was those events that helped carve her into the woman she is today.
Branden is one HOT alpha male! He is the eldest with five younger sisters (some half sisters and others are step sisters) but they are all fiercely protective of one another - I believe that is thanks to their awful mother that spends all her time finding her next husband and none of her time with the six kids. Branden Purchases D&B where Cara works but no one even knew the company was being sold, so when the news hit that he purchased the company and she see that he is the same man she kissed at a party the night before, Cara is thrown for a loop. Oh but it gets better and better, not only is there an instant attraction between the two but someone is now stalking Cara and Branden is going to get to the bottom of it if it's the last thing he does.
Not only is there a stalker who is taking cheap shots at Cara but there is some office shenanigans going on, someone is doing some very illegal insider trading! This book will keep you guessing until the very end, just when you think you have it all figured out - believe me you DON'T! The ending will be a complete surprise that I don't think anyone will see coming.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
Cara was a breath of fresh air, she is very different from many of the heroines you find in alpha romance books, she is strong willed, hardworking, responsible, and extremely independent. Cara has had a rough life, she had a great childhood but things beyond her control rocked her world as a teenager and it was those events that helped carve her into the woman she is today.
Branden is one HOT alpha male! He is the eldest with five younger sisters (some half sisters and others are step sisters) but they are all fiercely protective of one another - I believe that is thanks to their awful mother that spends all her time finding her next husband and none of her time with the six kids. Branden Purchases D&B where Cara works but no one even knew the company was being sold, so when the news hit that he purchased the company and she see that he is the same man she kissed at a party the night before, Cara is thrown for a loop. Oh but it gets better and better, not only is there an instant attraction between the two but someone is now stalking Cara and Branden is going to get to the bottom of it if it's the last thing he does.
Not only is there a stalker who is taking cheap shots at Cara but there is some office shenanigans going on, someone is doing some very illegal insider trading! This book will keep you guessing until the very end, just when you think you have it all figured out - believe me you DON'T! The ending will be a complete surprise that I don't think anyone will see coming.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
October 22, 2015
I received a copy of this book through Random House for an honest review (thank you!). This book is told from dual points of view and I'm hoping it will be come a series so we can get to know his sisters and their friends (Iris, Alex, Lee).
I had a like/dislike for Cara. I was rooting for her. I was touched by her relationship, devotion and care for her brother (not so much her flaky mom). I really liked her relationship with her friend, Iris. At other times I found her immature, jumping to conclusions and very stubborn. All in all, it definitely made her interesting and a character with depth.
I liked Branden a lot. He and Cara had great chemistry and I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Cara and Branden have had up/down childhoods that have made them who they are today - caregivers and always putting others before themselves. I absolutely loved Branden's relationship with his sisters. Those texts were hilarious and made you forget he's a high powered billionaire.
In the beginning the book was quite descriptive. For example (and this is a fake example): she went to the cabinet and pulled out a glass to fill with wine walked across the foyer into the living room and set it down on the table. Not my style preference, but either it grew on me, lessened or I became so engrossed with the suspense of the story I forgot all about it.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and found myself engaged with the suspense and romance. I highly recommend picking this one up!
I had a like/dislike for Cara. I was rooting for her. I was touched by her relationship, devotion and care for her brother (not so much her flaky mom). I really liked her relationship with her friend, Iris. At other times I found her immature, jumping to conclusions and very stubborn. All in all, it definitely made her interesting and a character with depth.
I liked Branden a lot. He and Cara had great chemistry and I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Cara and Branden have had up/down childhoods that have made them who they are today - caregivers and always putting others before themselves. I absolutely loved Branden's relationship with his sisters. Those texts were hilarious and made you forget he's a high powered billionaire.
In the beginning the book was quite descriptive. For example (and this is a fake example): she went to the cabinet and pulled out a glass to fill with wine walked across the foyer into the living room and set it down on the table. Not my style preference, but either it grew on me, lessened or I became so engrossed with the suspense of the story I forgot all about it.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and found myself engaged with the suspense and romance. I highly recommend picking this one up!
October 12, 2015
ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book gives a whole new meaning to the saying “In order to be filthy rich, you have to get a little dirty.”
Yes, Filthy Rich can be compared to Fifty Shades of Grey, but I'm not going to do that. It's hard not to compare them, but this story stands on its own. You get a little bit of romance, a little bit of mystery, and a little bit of an adrenaline rush when everything plays out.
Cara is probably the hardest working analyst on Wall Street. She supports not only herself, but her brother and mother as well. She attends a work related party thrown by a client of Dubois & Mellan. Realizing how much of a jerk her date is and how much she would rather be anywhere else, she decides to mosey around a bit. She finds herself upstairs, lying down on a couch in an empty room. What feels like only seconds later, she wakes when a stranger touches her face. A very sexy stranger. The connection is so strong between them, they end up in a heated kiss. He doesn't even know her name, but she knows his, Branden Duke, and it's a name that she won't soon forget.
This story will keep you on your toes, trying to figure out who the miscreant is. I guessed at it a couple of times but ended up being wrong. I was taken by surprise when all was revealed. After reading so many books, being surprised is a rare occurrence. I have to applaud the author for that.
Iris was a great supporting character and I am hoping she gets her own book. She is the opposite of Cara, but they fit so well together as best friends.
I was disappointed, however, that Cara didn't get her revenge on the man who wrecked her life when she was younger. This book ends with an HEA, but I am hoping there will be more to this story. Recommended, if you want something a little different than the normal billionaire romance.
This book gives a whole new meaning to the saying “In order to be filthy rich, you have to get a little dirty.”
Yes, Filthy Rich can be compared to Fifty Shades of Grey, but I'm not going to do that. It's hard not to compare them, but this story stands on its own. You get a little bit of romance, a little bit of mystery, and a little bit of an adrenaline rush when everything plays out.
Cara is probably the hardest working analyst on Wall Street. She supports not only herself, but her brother and mother as well. She attends a work related party thrown by a client of Dubois & Mellan. Realizing how much of a jerk her date is and how much she would rather be anywhere else, she decides to mosey around a bit. She finds herself upstairs, lying down on a couch in an empty room. What feels like only seconds later, she wakes when a stranger touches her face. A very sexy stranger. The connection is so strong between them, they end up in a heated kiss. He doesn't even know her name, but she knows his, Branden Duke, and it's a name that she won't soon forget.
This story will keep you on your toes, trying to figure out who the miscreant is. I guessed at it a couple of times but ended up being wrong. I was taken by surprise when all was revealed. After reading so many books, being surprised is a rare occurrence. I have to applaud the author for that.
Iris was a great supporting character and I am hoping she gets her own book. She is the opposite of Cara, but they fit so well together as best friends.
I was disappointed, however, that Cara didn't get her revenge on the man who wrecked her life when she was younger. This book ends with an HEA, but I am hoping there will be more to this story. Recommended, if you want something a little different than the normal billionaire romance.
October 26, 2015
4 Star Review
I was given this book through NetGalley for a honest review
My first book by Virna DePaul and I really enjoyed it, I will certainly look for more from her.
Cara has had a tough life and is now supporting her mother and her brother after her father died from a heart attacked after being accused and framed for stealing money.
Branden is a hot sexy billionaire who doesn't commit to any relationships. Brandon has just purchased D&B where Cara works. No one knows the company has been sold yet .....
So when Cara meets a tall dark stranger at a works party and has a heated moment with him the last thing she expects is to be introduced to him the next day as her new boss......
Cara and Brandon have chemistry but Cara is also strong woman who doesn't rely on men to get through life. Will they both except their feelings for each other or will their parents past come back to haunt them........
This book has a lot going on and its not your typical billionaire romance, Yes it does have some great hot sex scenes but it also has a story that involves mystery, suspense and a stalker as well as some insider trading.
Its a standalone but I do hope we get more from the other characters in this book.
Reviewed for MI Bookshelf
I was given this book through NetGalley for a honest review
My first book by Virna DePaul and I really enjoyed it, I will certainly look for more from her.
Cara has had a tough life and is now supporting her mother and her brother after her father died from a heart attacked after being accused and framed for stealing money.
Branden is a hot sexy billionaire who doesn't commit to any relationships. Brandon has just purchased D&B where Cara works. No one knows the company has been sold yet .....
So when Cara meets a tall dark stranger at a works party and has a heated moment with him the last thing she expects is to be introduced to him the next day as her new boss......
Cara and Brandon have chemistry but Cara is also strong woman who doesn't rely on men to get through life. Will they both except their feelings for each other or will their parents past come back to haunt them........
This book has a lot going on and its not your typical billionaire romance, Yes it does have some great hot sex scenes but it also has a story that involves mystery, suspense and a stalker as well as some insider trading.
Its a standalone but I do hope we get more from the other characters in this book.
Reviewed for MI Bookshelf
December 29, 2015
I don't feel the plot really gave us enough of the MCs together to say that a relationship developed. Cara and Branden were pretty hot and heavy yet it wasn't enough to sell me on them. The antagonist is a bit out of left field but that's always good with stories that have a mystery to solve.
**ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
maybe-later
November 4, 2015Shelving this one for now... May come back to it later. It's entirely too wordy for my tastes right now and I can't get into it.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2021
" She raised her chin and straightened her shoulders. Even as dread and fear chased through her, she knew she had to pull herself together. Someone was messing with her. With her career. And she wasn't going down without a fight."
OMG, this was such an unexpected enjoyable read.
I did not expect that. What you read from the blurb was definitely something different then what we got.
I mean if goodreads didn't tell me it was a thriller suspense, I wouldn't have known.
Of course the plotline still focuses on the romance but the thriller of the book was so good.
In the beginning I got quite confused where all of it was going.
But the plotline slowly make sense.
The connection of Branden and Cara was instant and coincidentally, their life is intertwine with each other with the thriller suspense of the plotline.
It was very mysterious and I got my guess wrong sadly.
Although some of the plotline didn't make sense and wasn't really told and answered, like Cara's father and Davies.
The plotline of the story was so good.
The mystery and the balance was so good.
I didn't quite enjoy the ins and outs of the side characters. Like the side characters are so good but I feel like the author is always hesitant to include them in the story because their interaction feel so dry and just for the sake of plotline filter.
"But Cara, gently whispering poetry to her brother, soothing his agitation and sending him off to sleep, had expressed love through each word. Through the lilt and tone in her voice. She hadn't need anything from her brother. Had simply loved him. But love couldn't be that simple.. could it?"
OMG, this was such an unexpected enjoyable read.
I did not expect that. What you read from the blurb was definitely something different then what we got.
I mean if goodreads didn't tell me it was a thriller suspense, I wouldn't have known.
Of course the plotline still focuses on the romance but the thriller of the book was so good.
In the beginning I got quite confused where all of it was going.
But the plotline slowly make sense.
The connection of Branden and Cara was instant and coincidentally, their life is intertwine with each other with the thriller suspense of the plotline.
It was very mysterious and I got my guess wrong sadly.
Although some of the plotline didn't make sense and wasn't really told and answered, like Cara's father and Davies.
The plotline of the story was so good.
The mystery and the balance was so good.
I didn't quite enjoy the ins and outs of the side characters. Like the side characters are so good but I feel like the author is always hesitant to include them in the story because their interaction feel so dry and just for the sake of plotline filter.
"But Cara, gently whispering poetry to her brother, soothing his agitation and sending him off to sleep, had expressed love through each word. Through the lilt and tone in her voice. She hadn't need anything from her brother. Had simply loved him. But love couldn't be that simple.. could it?"
January 26, 2018
Cara is a hard working woman in the stock market field that has had to fight to get where she is. Cara is one to stay in the background though. Cara's father was in the stock market too but was falsely accused of fraud. Now Cara is working as hard as she is to take care of her mother and brother.
When Cara decides to go out with her friend one night, she just wants to let loose a little and enjoy her night. When Cara meets a stranger and has a hot kiss with him, she never dreamed he could be someone that would be so important in her near future.
Braden has just bought a new company in order to get to the bottom of some shady business that has gone on in that company. When he goes out the night before starting at the new company, he was not intending to find someone that would make such an impression on him. There is something about Cara though that he just can't get out of his mine.
When both Cara and Braden realize the next business day that Braden is the new owner of the company she works for, they both know that this is not good. Braden knows that he should just leave Cara alone because of his position in the company, but he knows that is not going to happen.
If you like the rich, protective, Alpha male type then this is the book for you. Braden can express his dominance but he is also very protective and caring of Cara. I thought the story flowed well and that the characters were well developed.
When Cara decides to go out with her friend one night, she just wants to let loose a little and enjoy her night. When Cara meets a stranger and has a hot kiss with him, she never dreamed he could be someone that would be so important in her near future.
Braden has just bought a new company in order to get to the bottom of some shady business that has gone on in that company. When he goes out the night before starting at the new company, he was not intending to find someone that would make such an impression on him. There is something about Cara though that he just can't get out of his mine.
When both Cara and Braden realize the next business day that Braden is the new owner of the company she works for, they both know that this is not good. Braden knows that he should just leave Cara alone because of his position in the company, but he knows that is not going to happen.
If you like the rich, protective, Alpha male type then this is the book for you. Braden can express his dominance but he is also very protective and caring of Cara. I thought the story flowed well and that the characters were well developed.
April 19, 2020
Cara is pretty big on Wall Street, she is at a work party and falls asleep on a couch....Brandon Duke is hosting the party and is supposed to announce that he owns the company she works for however he never got a chance to make the announcement, the two share a kiss. The book then goes on to see these two fall in love.....
October 28, 2015
I’m glad that Cara Michal’s dating life is in a huge slump. I’m glad to see it all change with a mystery man and an even more mysterious kiss...
Filthy Rich, by Virna DePaul is altogether a fun read. It’s not that it’s a light hearted read. It’s a fun because everything flows; the characters, the storyline, and the chemistry between the two main characters is palpable. Its also fun because there is a bit of a whodunit and I love trying to guess who the bad guy or girl is. It took a few chapters for me to get into it, but once I did it held my interest and it held it good.
Now about Cara...I found her to be heartwarmingly altruistic. She’s forced to be the family caretaker and she willingly makes emergency midnight visits to her brother, and mails her mother a check when funds are tight. She’s smart, but guards her heart well. She’s also got a bit of a wild girl in her which she keeps hidden just beneath the surface. When Cara’s impulsive streak decides to show, she has really no idea why. Why him...why Branden? Things get a little complicated and a lot of sexy. The mystery that drives the plot forward pushes Branden and Cara together has a lot going on, a few angles to consider and anyone of them could very, very bad for these two.
As for Branden….he is just so, so easy to like. It’s kinda cute that he thinks that he can keep his cool around Cara and when he fails to keep his distance, he really doesn’t put up much of a fight. Why pretend, right? I also liked his relationships with his various “step- sisters”; The devotion and respect he shows for them is a good indicator as to the type of man he is. And, I like Branden because he’s not some cocky undeserving entitled womanizer. Finally, I like Branden because ADORES Cara. DePaul depicts this irresistible pull between them very, very well. Not all characters have that “click”, where the chemistry is undeniable and the author knows how to show it.
This is the first book by Virna DePaul that I’ve read and it certainly won’t be the last. I’m so impressed by the chemistry she created between Branden and Cara I’ve gotta wonder about her other lead characters. 4 stars and recommendation!!
Filthy Rich, by Virna DePaul is altogether a fun read. It’s not that it’s a light hearted read. It’s a fun because everything flows; the characters, the storyline, and the chemistry between the two main characters is palpable. Its also fun because there is a bit of a whodunit and I love trying to guess who the bad guy or girl is. It took a few chapters for me to get into it, but once I did it held my interest and it held it good.
Now about Cara...I found her to be heartwarmingly altruistic. She’s forced to be the family caretaker and she willingly makes emergency midnight visits to her brother, and mails her mother a check when funds are tight. She’s smart, but guards her heart well. She’s also got a bit of a wild girl in her which she keeps hidden just beneath the surface. When Cara’s impulsive streak decides to show, she has really no idea why. Why him...why Branden? Things get a little complicated and a lot of sexy. The mystery that drives the plot forward pushes Branden and Cara together has a lot going on, a few angles to consider and anyone of them could very, very bad for these two.
As for Branden….he is just so, so easy to like. It’s kinda cute that he thinks that he can keep his cool around Cara and when he fails to keep his distance, he really doesn’t put up much of a fight. Why pretend, right? I also liked his relationships with his various “step- sisters”; The devotion and respect he shows for them is a good indicator as to the type of man he is. And, I like Branden because he’s not some cocky undeserving entitled womanizer. Finally, I like Branden because ADORES Cara. DePaul depicts this irresistible pull between them very, very well. Not all characters have that “click”, where the chemistry is undeniable and the author knows how to show it.
This is the first book by Virna DePaul that I’ve read and it certainly won’t be the last. I’m so impressed by the chemistry she created between Branden and Cara I’ve gotta wonder about her other lead characters. 4 stars and recommendation!!
November 11, 2015
Based off the blurb for Filthy Rich. I was expecting to read another billionaire romance story. Normally I shy away from them because there’s only so much variation you can spin on rich/guy seducing average girl and still keep it original. But this was a Virna DePaul book, and I do so enjoy her PNR titles, so I decided to give it a twirl. What I got was a spicy romance with intrigue to keep me guessing until the very end.
Brandon I really like. Charming, smexy and playful, his character was a joy. He has his secrets but instead of coming off as a rich, snobby jerk, I found him very down to earth. And then there’s Cara. She really had me on the fence of like/dislike. I found her to be very smart and a likable enough character. Things between Brandon and her were interesting as well. I enjoyed their banter and the sex. It was her yes/no, want/can’t flip/flopping back and forth that I found grating. You want to stand on your own two feet? Got it. Your dad got screwed over and you want to redeem him. Fine by me. You don’t want to depend on anybody but Brandon is sexy as sin but he’s your boss but you didn’t know it when you kissed him? But… But… But… It just had me wanting to shake her and tell her ‘Honey, fish or cut bait’.
The story itself I really enjoyed. The whole whodunit was spun very well. There was plenty of plot twists to keep everything rolling along quickly. Add to that a list of sleazy and/or suspicious characters that had me guessing until the very end. Really fooled me when the real bad guy was exposed. On top of the ‘bad’ guys was other secondaries, mainly Brandon’s sisters, that I enjoyed. Their input and sisterly banter had me smiling. Despite all the yes/no from Cara, Filthy Rich was a really good book to read. Ms. DePaul’s fans are going to eat this one up.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 3.5, Flames - 3
Brandon I really like. Charming, smexy and playful, his character was a joy. He has his secrets but instead of coming off as a rich, snobby jerk, I found him very down to earth. And then there’s Cara. She really had me on the fence of like/dislike. I found her to be very smart and a likable enough character. Things between Brandon and her were interesting as well. I enjoyed their banter and the sex. It was her yes/no, want/can’t flip/flopping back and forth that I found grating. You want to stand on your own two feet? Got it. Your dad got screwed over and you want to redeem him. Fine by me. You don’t want to depend on anybody but Brandon is sexy as sin but he’s your boss but you didn’t know it when you kissed him? But… But… But… It just had me wanting to shake her and tell her ‘Honey, fish or cut bait’.
The story itself I really enjoyed. The whole whodunit was spun very well. There was plenty of plot twists to keep everything rolling along quickly. Add to that a list of sleazy and/or suspicious characters that had me guessing until the very end. Really fooled me when the real bad guy was exposed. On top of the ‘bad’ guys was other secondaries, mainly Brandon’s sisters, that I enjoyed. Their input and sisterly banter had me smiling. Despite all the yes/no from Cara, Filthy Rich was a really good book to read. Ms. DePaul’s fans are going to eat this one up.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 3.5, Flames - 3
October 28, 2015
A copy was provided from Random House via NetGalley in return for an honest review. ETA: I was invited by Random House to review this book, I did not request it myself.
There is such a glutton of Billionaire romance novels on the market right now, who can even keep up? Some are incredibly remarkable for some reason or another. Sadly this is not one. It's just another modern-day Cinderella story with a suspense twist that just wasn't enough to make it something I'd want to add to my keeper collection.
There were some points that didn't work for me at all - like both MCs changing their names to avoid public scrutiny. In Branden's case, unless he was being adopted by a stepfather each time his mother remarried, his last name wouldn't change - only his mother's would. In Cara's case, legally changing one's name is a matter of public record and would show up in a search engine. And since Branden was doing a background check using her employee records, he would have her SSN which would have made it extremely easy to find the court records.
Another thing that I found disturbing was how easy it was for everyone to ignore the complete lack of ethics of a sexual relationship between Branden & Cara especially while Branden was helping to conduct an investigation involving the company he'd just purchased & which Cara may or may not have been a suspect. Not to mention the huge possibility of sexual harassment or nepotism.
Props though because I completely was surprised by the identity of the stalker.
There is such a glutton of Billionaire romance novels on the market right now, who can even keep up? Some are incredibly remarkable for some reason or another. Sadly this is not one. It's just another modern-day Cinderella story with a suspense twist that just wasn't enough to make it something I'd want to add to my keeper collection.
There were some points that didn't work for me at all - like both MCs changing their names to avoid public scrutiny. In Branden's case, unless he was being adopted by a stepfather each time his mother remarried, his last name wouldn't change - only his mother's would. In Cara's case, legally changing one's name is a matter of public record and would show up in a search engine. And since Branden was doing a background check using her employee records, he would have her SSN which would have made it extremely easy to find the court records.
Another thing that I found disturbing was how easy it was for everyone to ignore the complete lack of ethics of a sexual relationship between Branden & Cara especially while Branden was helping to conduct an investigation involving the company he'd just purchased & which Cara may or may not have been a suspect. Not to mention the huge possibility of sexual harassment or nepotism.
Props though because I completely was surprised by the identity of the stalker.
October 19, 2015
Filthy Rich by Virna DePaul is the first book that I have read by this author. Personally I have never been a big fan of CEO/Billionaire type romances but, Filthy Rich was so much more than I expected. The blurb will pull you in and keep you turning page after page.
In the story we meet Cara. She is a workaholic to say the least. She is caring, loving and works her butt off for what she has and is a very likable character. Cara is also a loving caretaker to her family. She and Braden have that in common. Then we meet Braden. He is a self-made Billionaire and I expected him to be egotistical and brash. He was anything but those things. I totally fell in love with him! Braden was 100% swoon worthy!
I was honestly and happily surprised by how well written this book was. The story has everything you could want in it. There is lots of angst, suspense and just the right amount of steam. There are even some surprise twists that I didn't see coming. I love when I think I have guessed who did what and then BOOM, plot twist! LOL!
This story will suck you in and leave you begging for more. I look forward to reading more from Ms. DePaul.
*I received an ARC via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In the story we meet Cara. She is a workaholic to say the least. She is caring, loving and works her butt off for what she has and is a very likable character. Cara is also a loving caretaker to her family. She and Braden have that in common. Then we meet Braden. He is a self-made Billionaire and I expected him to be egotistical and brash. He was anything but those things. I totally fell in love with him! Braden was 100% swoon worthy!
I was honestly and happily surprised by how well written this book was. The story has everything you could want in it. There is lots of angst, suspense and just the right amount of steam. There are even some surprise twists that I didn't see coming. I love when I think I have guessed who did what and then BOOM, plot twist! LOL!
This story will suck you in and leave you begging for more. I look forward to reading more from Ms. DePaul.
*I received an ARC via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This story got off to a slow and overly wordy start but that all changed as soon as Cara and Branden meet. Cara is fiercely independent and aside from her friendship with her best friend Iris, avoids emotional attachments. The only women Branden loves in his life are his sisters and while he likes women, he has not room for love. Both characters are strong and Brenden is an excellent example of an alpha male who knows how to treat women with respect.
The push and pull between this couple as they fight their attraction and later their feelings, makes for some intense steamy scenes. This coupled with the dual point of view made it easy to connect with Cara and Branden and I was emotionally invested in their relationship. I devoured Filthy Rich, reading this more than 350 page book in under 48 hours which is testament to how much I enjoyed the story. It was excellent.
This story got off to a slow and overly wordy start but that all changed as soon as Cara and Branden meet. Cara is fiercely independent and aside from her friendship with her best friend Iris, avoids emotional attachments. The only women Branden loves in his life are his sisters and while he likes women, he has not room for love. Both characters are strong and Brenden is an excellent example of an alpha male who knows how to treat women with respect.
The push and pull between this couple as they fight their attraction and later their feelings, makes for some intense steamy scenes. This coupled with the dual point of view made it easy to connect with Cara and Branden and I was emotionally invested in their relationship. I devoured Filthy Rich, reading this more than 350 page book in under 48 hours which is testament to how much I enjoyed the story. It was excellent.
November 1, 2015
A scintillating suspense with one of the most seductive cute meets I’ve ever read. I was captivated by the essence of it all, and I couldn’t wait for the characters to meet again, and see how their story would unfold.
Brandon is one it’s-almost-a-shame-to-be-so-sexy hero whose suave demeanor and strength made him the ultimate in attractiveness. Cara is strong, yet feminine, and I admired her desire to stay independent while learning to enjoy her life. The suspense drew me in, and I was happy to find out that I hadn’t had if all figured out like I thought. I like surprises, and this book definitely houses one. Part of the revelation was somewhat strange, but not the I-had-to-roll-my-eyes-and-figure-out-what-the-author-could’ve-been-thinking-strange, but a good strange. It’s good to be different, and DePaul was original when it came to the climax – the part that explained the motivations of the villain. I must give her Kudos for being so bold!
Unfortunately, the story falls short on the development of the relationship,
Brandon is one it’s-almost-a-shame-to-be-so-sexy hero whose suave demeanor and strength made him the ultimate in attractiveness. Cara is strong, yet feminine, and I admired her desire to stay independent while learning to enjoy her life. The suspense drew me in, and I was happy to find out that I hadn’t had if all figured out like I thought. I like surprises, and this book definitely houses one. Part of the revelation was somewhat strange, but not the I-had-to-roll-my-eyes-and-figure-out-what-the-author-could’ve-been-thinking-strange, but a good strange. It’s good to be different, and DePaul was original when it came to the climax – the part that explained the motivations of the villain. I must give her Kudos for being so bold!
Unfortunately, the story falls short on the development of the relationship,
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