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The Billionaire Bachelors #1
The Fireside Inn
They’re single, they’re rich, and now these billionaire bachelors are heading to Sanctuary Island in a new e-original novella series from Lily Everett! Fall in love with the island’s latest catch.
Leo, Zane, and Cooper made a pact to stay bachelors and enjoy the single life forever, and when they receive an invitation to their friend Miles’ wedding, they head down to Sanctuary Island determined to talk some sense into the errant groom before he makes a life-changing mistake. But Miles knows his own mind, and he makes a vow of his own: before he walks down the aisle, he’ll have Leo, Zane, and Cooper changing their tune about matrimony. Because Miles knows, better than anyone, that all it takes is a little Sanctuary Island magic to turn romantic cynics into true believers.
The Honorable Lord Leo Strathairn inherited his family’s money, his title, and his position in London society. When he meets Sanctuary Island’s funky young librarian, Serena Lightfoot, he’s determined to get a lot closer. Despite the simmering attraction between them, Serena isn’t at all interested in putting up with a pampered playboy. But as Leo ramps up his seduction attempts, Serena sees that he’s nothing like the empty-headed aristocrat she’d assumed.
Leo, Zane, and Cooper made a pact to stay bachelors and enjoy the single life forever, and when they receive an invitation to their friend Miles’ wedding, they head down to Sanctuary Island determined to talk some sense into the errant groom before he makes a life-changing mistake. But Miles knows his own mind, and he makes a vow of his own: before he walks down the aisle, he’ll have Leo, Zane, and Cooper changing their tune about matrimony. Because Miles knows, better than anyone, that all it takes is a little Sanctuary Island magic to turn romantic cynics into true believers.
The Honorable Lord Leo Strathairn inherited his family’s money, his title, and his position in London society. When he meets Sanctuary Island’s funky young librarian, Serena Lightfoot, he’s determined to get a lot closer. Despite the simmering attraction between them, Serena isn’t at all interested in putting up with a pampered playboy. But as Leo ramps up his seduction attempts, Serena sees that he’s nothing like the empty-headed aristocrat she’d assumed.
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
August 5, 2016
A fun light romance with a lot of heart. The story made me smile, but the low steam factor left me wanting a bit more.
Still, this was surprisingly good. When I first got this ARC I half expected it to be yet another knock-off of Fifty Shades of Grey, capitalizing on the billionaire hero. I am happy to say that is not what I got, but I wouldn't of minded some additional angst and steam. In fact, this was a fairly clean romance (think fade-to-black love scenes) and without all of the four letter words used for the purpose of shock value.
Leo and two of his friends makes a bet with their buddy Miles, which binds this new trilogy of novella romances. Can they all find love? In THE FIRESIDE INN Leo soon meets a smart and feisty librarian Serena, who I adored. He needs her help to select a love poem for a poetry reading he will give at Mile's upcoming wedding, but he hides a secret about himself he really doesn't want the world to learn.
I am not a fan of fade-to-black sex scenes, and I do think this story could have been strengthened with a few choice scenes, but by the end I was still sold on this romance. Sadly, it didn't start off that way. Unfortunately, the romance between Leo and Serena started off completely unbelievable -- I literally had to skip back a page or two and re-read to see if I missed something in the build up to their first kiss. Nope. It was the fastest I have seen 'hello' go to 'hot smooching' in a long, long time. But the pacing that followed was far more believable, and I found myself really enjoying this story. The ending ends on a high note, and it made me swoon and sigh over Leo.
This was my first read by Lily Everett, and if I could describe her writing style in one word I would have to use the word 'sparkle'. She has a great writing voice that was captivating and entertaining. Her words were poetic at times, ironic since the story in this book focused on a British hero (Leo) having to find a love poem to read at his friends wedding.
I especially loved how the author paired a librarian with a man with a reading disability, it made the connection these two ultimately had feel all the more real. The hero Leo is British, and the author did a great job capturing the distinctive humor and dialect.
In the end, I really enjoyed this one. I think it would have benefited if it was a longer story as it felt rushed, especially in the beginning. I also wished there wasn't the 'fade-to-black' sex scenes, but that is my personal preference. It started off rough and I wasn't sure I was going to be sold on the romance, but by the end I was. The writing was the best part as it pulled me in and kept me glued to the story, and I now find myself very interested in reading the story of his two friends.
This is a stand-alone read despite it being a spin-off from another series (which I did not read).
ARC copy provided by Netgalley.com
Still, this was surprisingly good. When I first got this ARC I half expected it to be yet another knock-off of Fifty Shades of Grey, capitalizing on the billionaire hero. I am happy to say that is not what I got, but I wouldn't of minded some additional angst and steam. In fact, this was a fairly clean romance (think fade-to-black love scenes) and without all of the four letter words used for the purpose of shock value.
Leo and two of his friends makes a bet with their buddy Miles, which binds this new trilogy of novella romances. Can they all find love? In THE FIRESIDE INN Leo soon meets a smart and feisty librarian Serena, who I adored. He needs her help to select a love poem for a poetry reading he will give at Mile's upcoming wedding, but he hides a secret about himself he really doesn't want the world to learn.
I am not a fan of fade-to-black sex scenes, and I do think this story could have been strengthened with a few choice scenes, but by the end I was still sold on this romance. Sadly, it didn't start off that way. Unfortunately, the romance between Leo and Serena started off completely unbelievable -- I literally had to skip back a page or two and re-read to see if I missed something in the build up to their first kiss. Nope. It was the fastest I have seen 'hello' go to 'hot smooching' in a long, long time. But the pacing that followed was far more believable, and I found myself really enjoying this story. The ending ends on a high note, and it made me swoon and sigh over Leo.
This was my first read by Lily Everett, and if I could describe her writing style in one word I would have to use the word 'sparkle'. She has a great writing voice that was captivating and entertaining. Her words were poetic at times, ironic since the story in this book focused on a British hero (Leo) having to find a love poem to read at his friends wedding.
I especially loved how the author paired a librarian with a man with a reading disability, it made the connection these two ultimately had feel all the more real. The hero Leo is British, and the author did a great job capturing the distinctive humor and dialect.
In the end, I really enjoyed this one. I think it would have benefited if it was a longer story as it felt rushed, especially in the beginning. I also wished there wasn't the 'fade-to-black' sex scenes, but that is my personal preference. It started off rough and I wasn't sure I was going to be sold on the romance, but by the end I was. The writing was the best part as it pulled me in and kept me glued to the story, and I now find myself very interested in reading the story of his two friends.
This is a stand-alone read despite it being a spin-off from another series (which I did not read).
ARC copy provided by Netgalley.com
December 26, 2013
Let me start by saying that to really enjoy this novella trilogy (this is book 1) I would suggest you read the first trilogy on Sanctuary Island
https://www.goodreads.com/series/1063...
OK, with that out of the way this is a bit of a continuation of that trilogy, the 3 gentlemen in this trilogy are friends of the hero of the last book of the Billionaire Brothers Trilogy.
The plots are all a bit different but the basic plot is - Come to Sanctuary Island and find the love of your life ... and it works for me. You pretty much know the framework but the author does a masterful job in letting you in on the feelings and the actions of the couple individually.
The story of Serena and Leo is great and he has a horrible secret he is hiding and men have taken advantage of her ever since high school so nothing is easy here . Can't say too much or I give away the story, trust me you will enjoy it.
This is not the works of Shakespeare but it is good solid entertaining reading for a cold day or maybe a day at the beach, it makes you happy when it is finished and if you are not reading for a bit of happiness then you missed the whole point :)
NOTE: Assuming this trilogy goes as well as the first one I would give the overall trilogy 5 Stars as I did the last one, each book adds a bit of something to the overall story since they seem to be happening concurrently.
https://www.goodreads.com/series/1063...
OK, with that out of the way this is a bit of a continuation of that trilogy, the 3 gentlemen in this trilogy are friends of the hero of the last book of the Billionaire Brothers Trilogy.
The plots are all a bit different but the basic plot is - Come to Sanctuary Island and find the love of your life ... and it works for me. You pretty much know the framework but the author does a masterful job in letting you in on the feelings and the actions of the couple individually.
The story of Serena and Leo is great and he has a horrible secret he is hiding and men have taken advantage of her ever since high school so nothing is easy here . Can't say too much or I give away the story, trust me you will enjoy it.
This is not the works of Shakespeare but it is good solid entertaining reading for a cold day or maybe a day at the beach, it makes you happy when it is finished and if you are not reading for a bit of happiness then you missed the whole point :)
NOTE: Assuming this trilogy goes as well as the first one I would give the overall trilogy 5 Stars as I did the last one, each book adds a bit of something to the overall story since they seem to be happening concurrently.
December 21, 2013
The Fireside Inn is part of the Billionaire Brothers series. This is 2014 St. Martin's Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Miles gathers his "brothers" together to announce he is getting married. Not only does the announcement shock the brothers they find they are also being issued a challenge. Miles is getting married on Sanctuary Island. He wants all the brothers to attend of course, but he also thinks that magical things can happen to them too and to prove it, he offers to give his helicopter to the man that does NOT find love on the island.
The first person to come across a problem is the British born Leo. He inherited his fortune and has had everything he could ever want, but he was virtually ignored by his parents as child since he wasn't the heir. It seems that a few things about their son escaped their attention and now he needs help so he doesn't ruin Mile's wedding.
Leo enlist the pretty librarian, Serena to help him select a poem to read at the wedding. Serena agrees to help him if he will get her an invitation to wedding so she can make contact with Miles. The library needs donations and Miles' pockets are pretty deep. So, Serena and Leo strike a bargain... But they both got more than they bargained for.
This a sweet novella addressing a problem many are too embarrassed to admit to and so go on suffering. The love and help of the right person helps Leo admit his problem. I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait to read about the other "brothers" and how they find true love on Sanctuary Island. This one is an A.
Miles gathers his "brothers" together to announce he is getting married. Not only does the announcement shock the brothers they find they are also being issued a challenge. Miles is getting married on Sanctuary Island. He wants all the brothers to attend of course, but he also thinks that magical things can happen to them too and to prove it, he offers to give his helicopter to the man that does NOT find love on the island.
The first person to come across a problem is the British born Leo. He inherited his fortune and has had everything he could ever want, but he was virtually ignored by his parents as child since he wasn't the heir. It seems that a few things about their son escaped their attention and now he needs help so he doesn't ruin Mile's wedding.
Leo enlist the pretty librarian, Serena to help him select a poem to read at the wedding. Serena agrees to help him if he will get her an invitation to wedding so she can make contact with Miles. The library needs donations and Miles' pockets are pretty deep. So, Serena and Leo strike a bargain... But they both got more than they bargained for.
This a sweet novella addressing a problem many are too embarrassed to admit to and so go on suffering. The love and help of the right person helps Leo admit his problem. I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait to read about the other "brothers" and how they find true love on Sanctuary Island. This one is an A.
January 17, 2014
Rated 3.5 Stars, also posted at TBR Mountain Range with series covers and series connection.
One billionaire in love bets his three friends that they will be in love by his wedding date. To win the coveted prize, one of them must stay out of love when the other two fall. The fun will be wondering if any of them will win at all in this new series of novellas that take place on SANCTUARY ISLAND.
We're back at Sanctuary Island for a new series of novellas by Lily Everett, THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS, which kicks off with Miles Harrington's wedding. What does a soon to be happily married guy do when he has several unmarried rich friends? Invite them to help with his wedding and bet them that they'll soon be head over heels in love, too. The billionaire who doesn't fall in love gets Miles' custom built helicopter and landing pad pass at their private club in Manhattan. They can all easily buy their own helicopter but they covet that restricted, unobtainable helipad access.
Zane Bishop, Cooper Haynes and Leo Strathairn are about to enter the bet they're sure they'll win. But Leo doesn't plan on meeting the very smart librarian who tries to help him choose a reading for the wedding. Can he easily ignore his attraction to her and keep his focus on the prize for not falling in love?
Serena Lightfoot finds the British voice of the man who visits her library before hours, irresistible. Can helping him find a poetic reading for his friend's wedding be done without losing her heart?
I haven't read any novellas by Lily Everett prior to this one. I have read SANCTUARY ISLAND and loved the emotion in that novel. I didn't find a lot of similarities between this first novella in THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS series in relationship to SANCTUARY ISLAND the novel, other than the location and some deep felt emotion. Sweetly sensual, this novella is sexy but not sexually explicit or erotic.
THE FIRESIDE INN is a light and quirky relationship novella about two people from completely different backgrounds who are thrown together due to circumstances. There was a moment toward the end where my own emotion took me by surprise. That sentimental, emotional moment is what makes this novella a good book for the romantic in all of us.
Next in THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS series is Zane Bishop's story in BONFIRE BEACH, a novella releasing January 14, 2014, then Cooper Haynes' story in LANTERN LAKE, a novella releasing on January 21, 2014. I'm especially looking forward to SHORELINE DRIVE, book two in the SANCTUARY ISLAND series of novels, by Lily Everett, available on January 28, 2014.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
One billionaire in love bets his three friends that they will be in love by his wedding date. To win the coveted prize, one of them must stay out of love when the other two fall. The fun will be wondering if any of them will win at all in this new series of novellas that take place on SANCTUARY ISLAND.
We're back at Sanctuary Island for a new series of novellas by Lily Everett, THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS, which kicks off with Miles Harrington's wedding. What does a soon to be happily married guy do when he has several unmarried rich friends? Invite them to help with his wedding and bet them that they'll soon be head over heels in love, too. The billionaire who doesn't fall in love gets Miles' custom built helicopter and landing pad pass at their private club in Manhattan. They can all easily buy their own helicopter but they covet that restricted, unobtainable helipad access.
Zane Bishop, Cooper Haynes and Leo Strathairn are about to enter the bet they're sure they'll win. But Leo doesn't plan on meeting the very smart librarian who tries to help him choose a reading for the wedding. Can he easily ignore his attraction to her and keep his focus on the prize for not falling in love?
Serena Lightfoot finds the British voice of the man who visits her library before hours, irresistible. Can helping him find a poetic reading for his friend's wedding be done without losing her heart?
I haven't read any novellas by Lily Everett prior to this one. I have read SANCTUARY ISLAND and loved the emotion in that novel. I didn't find a lot of similarities between this first novella in THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS series in relationship to SANCTUARY ISLAND the novel, other than the location and some deep felt emotion. Sweetly sensual, this novella is sexy but not sexually explicit or erotic.
THE FIRESIDE INN is a light and quirky relationship novella about two people from completely different backgrounds who are thrown together due to circumstances. There was a moment toward the end where my own emotion took me by surprise. That sentimental, emotional moment is what makes this novella a good book for the romantic in all of us.
Next in THE BILLIONAIRE BACHELORS series is Zane Bishop's story in BONFIRE BEACH, a novella releasing January 14, 2014, then Cooper Haynes' story in LANTERN LAKE, a novella releasing on January 21, 2014. I'm especially looking forward to SHORELINE DRIVE, book two in the SANCTUARY ISLAND series of novels, by Lily Everett, available on January 28, 2014.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
March 29, 2016
I've sat down to write this review several times. On the one hand I wanted to really enjoy this book. A librarian! A librarian getting to have lots of romantic fun with a British Lord! Come on this sounds great right? Except I didn't buy into the premise. Leo is, as far as I can tell, in his third decade. How exactly did he get that far in life without it (his secret) being an actual problem? I mean it. I could understand if this was a hundred years ago, but so much of our lives involve what he was hiding that I did not believe it. Not for a single second.
Not even if he was an uber-rich British Lord who everyone believed was an airhead. There is literally some things you can't avoid that would make it difficult with his secret.
So when the plot involved his secret I rolled my eyes and skimmed past his explanations and moved on. I greatly enjoyed the romance between the two, the bantering and the flirting sparkled. I liked that Mia initiated the seducing with Leo as often as Leo did. I liked that she wasn't intimidated by his rank or his posturing and pushed him to actually try do his best. She didn't let him slack off or pawn it off on her.
I did feel as if the story was rushed at times. The two needed more time overall and the ending didn't leave me thinking 'Yep they'll make it', it felt more like 'They'll have a nice holiday romance to think about'.
In the end this book had me smiling at some of the sweet moments, but afterwards left me with way too much questions (and not of the good kind).
Not even if he was an uber-rich British Lord who everyone believed was an airhead. There is literally some things you can't avoid that would make it difficult with his secret.
So when the plot involved his secret I rolled my eyes and skimmed past his explanations and moved on. I greatly enjoyed the romance between the two, the bantering and the flirting sparkled. I liked that Mia initiated the seducing with Leo as often as Leo did. I liked that she wasn't intimidated by his rank or his posturing and pushed him to actually try do his best. She didn't let him slack off or pawn it off on her.
I did feel as if the story was rushed at times. The two needed more time overall and the ending didn't leave me thinking 'Yep they'll make it', it felt more like 'They'll have a nice holiday romance to think about'.
In the end this book had me smiling at some of the sweet moments, but afterwards left me with way too much questions (and not of the good kind).
January 1, 2014
Overall this was a great short read, with lots of angst, emotional roller coasters, and true depth of caring. As a beginning to a new trilogy, I can see just how much I will love the next two stories. The trend has begun and knowing that each of these billionaires will fall to their hearts is exciting for me. Serena and Leo are perfectly matched and when they get past their fears and hang-ups the relationship they can build will be strong and lasting. Getting to see the bond between the men was always intriguing; reminding that sometimes families can be built from the strangest relationships. Can’t wait to find out more about Cooper and Zane and see them fall under the spell of Sanctuary Island.
(BTW where can I find this island because seriously, six sexy billionaires in one small place? I wanna move there! :P )
Rating: 3.75 stars
For full review see my blog at: http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
(BTW where can I find this island because seriously, six sexy billionaires in one small place? I wanna move there! :P )
Rating: 3.75 stars
For full review see my blog at: http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
January 9, 2014
This is the first book in a new trilogy following the excellent Billionaire Brothers trilogy. Ian comes to Sanctuary Island to attend the wedding of his friend Miles (Island Road)as part of a bet Miles has made. Ian will deliver a reading at the wedding and for his own reasons, this is a bad situation to be in. Ian seeks out the island librarian. Serena, to get her help. Romantic sparks fly between them and she agrees to help.
Although this is a short read, there is a lot packed into this novella. Ian has a big secret and Serena has issues which doesn't seem to be a basis for a great romance but love works it all out.
As a librarian, i love the idea that he came to the library for help and of course, I love the fantasy of the librarian having the hunky love of her life walk through the doors of the library.
I can't wait to read Bonfire Beach, the next book in the trilogy.
Although this is a short read, there is a lot packed into this novella. Ian has a big secret and Serena has issues which doesn't seem to be a basis for a great romance but love works it all out.
As a librarian, i love the idea that he came to the library for help and of course, I love the fantasy of the librarian having the hunky love of her life walk through the doors of the library.
I can't wait to read Bonfire Beach, the next book in the trilogy.
January 24, 2014
It was a short novella and I promise you that it is book one, but there is another trilogy that leads into this one. Did I read that? NOPE!!! so yes I was a little lost but i still enjoyed it none the less. Leo is going to Sanctuary Island for his best friend's wedding but with a secret that could ruin a lot!
Serena is a librarian for Sanctuary Island, but the funds aren't there to keep it going. What will happen when Leo walks into the library and into Serena's life? Well you have to read to find out. I enjoyed it but wanted a bit more to the story than the way it did play out. But again I enjoyed it.
Serena is a librarian for Sanctuary Island, but the funds aren't there to keep it going. What will happen when Leo walks into the library and into Serena's life? Well you have to read to find out. I enjoyed it but wanted a bit more to the story than the way it did play out. But again I enjoyed it.
February 6, 2014
In Fireside Inn by Lily Everett, Miles is getting ready to get married to his fiancee on Sanctuary Island. Miles enlists the help of his three bachelor friends in planning his wedding – he wants it to be perfect.
Madly in love, Miles is so sure the magic of Sanctuary Island will claim his friends and they’ll find love there that he makes them a bet to that affect. Leo, Zane and Cooper readily accept the bet…none of them is looking for love or a permanent relationship. But ” ‘No one intends to fall in love,’ Miles said…’But on Sanctuary Island? You won’t have a choice.’ ” Read More
Madly in love, Miles is so sure the magic of Sanctuary Island will claim his friends and they’ll find love there that he makes them a bet to that affect. Leo, Zane and Cooper readily accept the bet…none of them is looking for love or a permanent relationship. But ” ‘No one intends to fall in love,’ Miles said…’But on Sanctuary Island? You won’t have a choice.’ ” Read More
January 31, 2014
Nice addition to the Sanctuary Island Series, and a sweet start to the Billionaires Club Novellas. I always like a hero with an English accent...so this was right up my alley.
I am looking forward to the next two novellas!!
I am looking forward to the next two novellas!!
March 7, 2019
When Miles Harrington gets engaged he wants his best friends, Leo, Zane and Cooper to be groomsmen in his wedding and he would love it if the other billionaires came and spent a few week on Sanctuary Island. Miles did warn the guys that when you come to the island, most people end up finding love. Of course all his bachelor friends laugh at this notion so Miles' makes a bet that whoever does not fall in love by the day of his wedding can have his helicopter and launch pad at the club.
Lord Leo Stratham may be from British royalty but he knows he will always be a bachelor. When Leo has to pick a reading to be read at Miles' wedding he knows that he needs help.....Leo doesn't know how to read very well. Leo decides to head to the Sanctuary Island library for help. There he meets Serena Lightfoot, the town's quirky head librarian. As these two spend more time together, things heat up quickly. Just as it looks as if these two will get their happy ending, Leo's secret comes to life and Serena feels betrayed because of events from her past. It will take a lot for this stubborn Brit to throw away his pride in order to win the woman's heart he truly wants.
This was such a sweet novella. I really liked both of these characters and really enjoyed their happy ending.
Lord Leo Stratham may be from British royalty but he knows he will always be a bachelor. When Leo has to pick a reading to be read at Miles' wedding he knows that he needs help.....Leo doesn't know how to read very well. Leo decides to head to the Sanctuary Island library for help. There he meets Serena Lightfoot, the town's quirky head librarian. As these two spend more time together, things heat up quickly. Just as it looks as if these two will get their happy ending, Leo's secret comes to life and Serena feels betrayed because of events from her past. It will take a lot for this stubborn Brit to throw away his pride in order to win the woman's heart he truly wants.
This was such a sweet novella. I really liked both of these characters and really enjoyed their happy ending.
November 23, 2020
A short story set around the wedding of one of four male friends set on Sanctuary Island. I haven't read the rest of this series, but it didn't detract from this story.
This story is about librarian Serena and English aristocrat Leo, and how Serena helps Leo find a reading for his friend's upcoming wedding on the island.
I did enjoy the story and the feel of Sanctuary Island and it's inhabitants, but it also felt a little bit rushed to me, but then again novellas/short stories often feel that way, especially where romance is concerned. I also found the part where Leo said 'love' in his sentences all the time, i.e. 'actually, love, I had something else in mind', very irritating. Some authors seem to think that all English people say 'love' all the time, and... they don't, at least not the people I know!
But there was a nice feel to the story and the setting sounded idyllic, so I would be interested in going back and reading some of the Sanctuary Island books now.
This story is about librarian Serena and English aristocrat Leo, and how Serena helps Leo find a reading for his friend's upcoming wedding on the island.
I did enjoy the story and the feel of Sanctuary Island and it's inhabitants, but it also felt a little bit rushed to me, but then again novellas/short stories often feel that way, especially where romance is concerned. I also found the part where Leo said 'love' in his sentences all the time, i.e. 'actually, love, I had something else in mind', very irritating. Some authors seem to think that all English people say 'love' all the time, and... they don't, at least not the people I know!
But there was a nice feel to the story and the setting sounded idyllic, so I would be interested in going back and reading some of the Sanctuary Island books now.
January 9, 2014
Love, Hurt, Secrets, Family, Fear, Beginnings, Friendships. If these are some of the things you enjoy reading about then I believe you’ve picked the right book. What’s better then young, rich, spoiled, sexy men with a heart? A woman who can rock their world before they know their bell has been chimed. Meet Serena Lightfoot the chime that is about to ring Leo Strathairn’s bell.
Leo Strathairn is a young British Lord Billionaire of old money who now lives in New York away from his royal family. He happens to be one of the lucky three chosen by Miles Harrinton to be mentored along with Zane Bishop and Cooper Haynes. All three along with Miles were confirmed bachelors. That was until Miles returned from Sanctuary Island that his family owns half of. Now he breaks the news he is getting married.
If that’s not scary enough, he has asked the guys to help with the wedding. Knowing that is the only way he would get these spoiled billionaires to this simple island. Mostly out of fear that the fate that has now met him and that had already take his own two brother not too long ago, marriage. Mostly, he had come to know these three as brothers when he was not talking to his own two brothers he had taken on these three to fill the void. It was his future bride Greta that got him to face his feelings and bridge the void and start working things out with his brothers.
To step it up a notch he offer a one-time deal to the three of them, that if they would come that day and stay all 4 weeks before the wedding and his life is not changed and he has not found love the one left standing at the end of that day, He would sign over his lifetime Heliport pass for the Biltmore Hotel (The Billionaire’s Club) and give them his helicopter which they all took him up on.
This story however is centered on Leo. Like the others he is a playboy. Always in the tabloids with a beautiful woman on his are but a different one each picture. Never to get married as per the others, never. So he was very sure the helicopter was his prize for sure. By the next day I know he is not so sure. Since on that day he stopped first thing in the morning and met, angered, kissed, and got a date for a little loving (oops bad choice of words) but you get my point, with the head Liberian, Serena. It all started by him wanting her to pick out the poem he was to read at Miles wedding, since Miles and Greta said he had a way with words.
You see he needs her to read it out loud to him for all the words on the page start to run all over the place and then together. That’s when he starts to sweat and things start to become tense and his anger raises. So, he just gives up.
This was such a touching story. As a mother who raised children I adopted that were learning disabled, I also worked as an aide in the classroom for reading and math. I know what a struggle children face with not meeting reading goals. To not have family and teachers (not all) support in learning, as well as trying every way possible to help you can see how it can dim a soul. You add peer pressure to that and wow, how overwhelming is that? This author captured so many emotions that I am sure anyone would feel if they were in fear of people finding out.
The thing was it was that it was made more emotional for him because for once in his life he was feeling something for a woman other than just purely sexual. This was very new to him but it was that she was showing interest in him and really seeing him, in fact she was the first person in his whole life that ever really saw him. Being that his brother was to take the throne his own family never ever really saw or cared about him. So, he tells her his deepest secret after she reveals hers but days after she reveals hers.
Serena helps him with the poems at first because she is into love poems plus he tells her up front he basically doesn’t want to have a relationship but that he does find her sexually attractive and he sexually attracted to her. She was happy he was up front on both fronts not using her for her mind like past boyfriends. He just really desired her sexually was a come on to her.
. Is it that simple or does he have something he left out at the beginning that will bite him in the ass? What comes of the poem project does it stall, the date, and see how these to relate as a non-couple. You can see if he has what it takes to “read” a poem at the wedding. Serena’s reaction to his truth was expected but not for the reason you would think. You have to read in order to find out why you will not be sorry. This short is worth it. I can’t wait until the next book. Provided Netgalley
Leo Strathairn is a young British Lord Billionaire of old money who now lives in New York away from his royal family. He happens to be one of the lucky three chosen by Miles Harrinton to be mentored along with Zane Bishop and Cooper Haynes. All three along with Miles were confirmed bachelors. That was until Miles returned from Sanctuary Island that his family owns half of. Now he breaks the news he is getting married.
If that’s not scary enough, he has asked the guys to help with the wedding. Knowing that is the only way he would get these spoiled billionaires to this simple island. Mostly out of fear that the fate that has now met him and that had already take his own two brother not too long ago, marriage. Mostly, he had come to know these three as brothers when he was not talking to his own two brothers he had taken on these three to fill the void. It was his future bride Greta that got him to face his feelings and bridge the void and start working things out with his brothers.
To step it up a notch he offer a one-time deal to the three of them, that if they would come that day and stay all 4 weeks before the wedding and his life is not changed and he has not found love the one left standing at the end of that day, He would sign over his lifetime Heliport pass for the Biltmore Hotel (The Billionaire’s Club) and give them his helicopter which they all took him up on.
This story however is centered on Leo. Like the others he is a playboy. Always in the tabloids with a beautiful woman on his are but a different one each picture. Never to get married as per the others, never. So he was very sure the helicopter was his prize for sure. By the next day I know he is not so sure. Since on that day he stopped first thing in the morning and met, angered, kissed, and got a date for a little loving (oops bad choice of words) but you get my point, with the head Liberian, Serena. It all started by him wanting her to pick out the poem he was to read at Miles wedding, since Miles and Greta said he had a way with words.
You see he needs her to read it out loud to him for all the words on the page start to run all over the place and then together. That’s when he starts to sweat and things start to become tense and his anger raises. So, he just gives up.
This was such a touching story. As a mother who raised children I adopted that were learning disabled, I also worked as an aide in the classroom for reading and math. I know what a struggle children face with not meeting reading goals. To not have family and teachers (not all) support in learning, as well as trying every way possible to help you can see how it can dim a soul. You add peer pressure to that and wow, how overwhelming is that? This author captured so many emotions that I am sure anyone would feel if they were in fear of people finding out.
The thing was it was that it was made more emotional for him because for once in his life he was feeling something for a woman other than just purely sexual. This was very new to him but it was that she was showing interest in him and really seeing him, in fact she was the first person in his whole life that ever really saw him. Being that his brother was to take the throne his own family never ever really saw or cared about him. So, he tells her his deepest secret after she reveals hers but days after she reveals hers.
Serena helps him with the poems at first because she is into love poems plus he tells her up front he basically doesn’t want to have a relationship but that he does find her sexually attractive and he sexually attracted to her. She was happy he was up front on both fronts not using her for her mind like past boyfriends. He just really desired her sexually was a come on to her.
. Is it that simple or does he have something he left out at the beginning that will bite him in the ass? What comes of the poem project does it stall, the date, and see how these to relate as a non-couple. You can see if he has what it takes to “read” a poem at the wedding. Serena’s reaction to his truth was expected but not for the reason you would think. You have to read in order to find out why you will not be sorry. This short is worth it. I can’t wait until the next book. Provided Netgalley
January 7, 2014
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am sensing a new shift in contemporary romance. A backlash against SMUT. I am not enjoying it.
Look, I don't need to know everything that happens in a sex scene. If the dude breaks wind as he climaxes, I don't expect the author to write that into the scene. (In fact, please don't) However, for two adult characters to maturely decide the are attracted to each other, enough to knock boots, well, I want to hear a bit of that knocking. I want to know they are both satisfied. This can be done any number of ways in women's fiction, but I think the time of "intense groping-passing-directly-into-the-post-coital-snuggle" is over. And good riddance!
The Story: Miles Harrington has invited his three best friends, who are all billionaires, to this tiny island off Virginia's coast to help him prepare his whirlwind wedding to a local resident. Why a rich dude needs a bunch of other rich bachelor dudes to plan his wedding seemed...ludicrous? IDK. Anywho, Leo Strathairn is one of said-rich-buddies and his task for the wedding is to find a romantic poem to read in the ceremony. Only, Leo's illiterate. Nobody knows this, because he's got people, but he doesn't want use his people to help him. Why? IDK. Seems a no-brainer.
Leo instead puts the moves on sexy-but-doesn't-know-it librarian Serena Lightfoot in order to get himself a poem. Serena's not into helping people who can't/won't do their own work, but decides to help because Leo's going to arrange some big donations to fund the library. Oh, and she's intrigued about a guy liking her for her body. Leo's the usual billionaire--30 y/o, hot, unavailable emotionally--so Serena decides, why not?
I think they have sex the next day. There's some discussion and negotiation and then kissing, then they're naked on a blanket talking about how good THAT was.
They continue to see each other, Serena reading love poem after love poem, with Leo not deciding and dithering on about how love doesn't exist. Serena freaks out when he won't read anything for himself, prompting his confession about not being ABLE to read....
She leaves, outraged that Leo used her for her brains and not just a casual sex partner, but returns with books on tape. Tells him he can do it for himself, which I thought was nice actually. Teach a man to fish, and all that. Then, Serena leaves Leo. Yeah, it's tragic, but Serena's always been used for her brain and it's a touchy subject so she just wants to move on...to nothing. She has no other romantic prospects.
Leo does listen to Serena's poems on CD, and changes, and believes in love, and even writes his own poetry, which naturally wins over Serena's heart at the wedding ceremony. I'm sure they reconcile--in the naked ways--off the page. Perhaps they'll come back and tell me how great it was.
Seriously, most women read these stories for the vicarious thrill of passion. Whether they have it in real life, or not. I'd feel cheated if I had purchased a contemporary romance that had less action than a MG novel.
I'm again NOT saying that it's gotta be filthy, but give me something.
The Fireside Inn was a huge tease. It's the first in a romance novella series that follows Miles' friends, confirmed bachelors all, falling in love while planning Miles' wedding. If the first novella was this tame, I'm sure the others will be as well. The story was well-written, good word choice and all, but the characters were one-dimensional and the problems low-risk. The pivotal crisis was small-stakes, and the lack of ANY sexual heat made me feel like I'd been hornswaggled by the blurb. Just sayin'.
I am sensing a new shift in contemporary romance. A backlash against SMUT. I am not enjoying it.
Look, I don't need to know everything that happens in a sex scene. If the dude breaks wind as he climaxes, I don't expect the author to write that into the scene. (In fact, please don't) However, for two adult characters to maturely decide the are attracted to each other, enough to knock boots, well, I want to hear a bit of that knocking. I want to know they are both satisfied. This can be done any number of ways in women's fiction, but I think the time of "intense groping-passing-directly-into-the-post-coital-snuggle" is over. And good riddance!
The Story: Miles Harrington has invited his three best friends, who are all billionaires, to this tiny island off Virginia's coast to help him prepare his whirlwind wedding to a local resident. Why a rich dude needs a bunch of other rich bachelor dudes to plan his wedding seemed...ludicrous? IDK. Anywho, Leo Strathairn is one of said-rich-buddies and his task for the wedding is to find a romantic poem to read in the ceremony. Only, Leo's illiterate. Nobody knows this, because he's got people, but he doesn't want use his people to help him. Why? IDK. Seems a no-brainer.
Leo instead puts the moves on sexy-but-doesn't-know-it librarian Serena Lightfoot in order to get himself a poem. Serena's not into helping people who can't/won't do their own work, but decides to help because Leo's going to arrange some big donations to fund the library. Oh, and she's intrigued about a guy liking her for her body. Leo's the usual billionaire--30 y/o, hot, unavailable emotionally--so Serena decides, why not?
I think they have sex the next day. There's some discussion and negotiation and then kissing, then they're naked on a blanket talking about how good THAT was.
They continue to see each other, Serena reading love poem after love poem, with Leo not deciding and dithering on about how love doesn't exist. Serena freaks out when he won't read anything for himself, prompting his confession about not being ABLE to read....
She leaves, outraged that Leo used her for her brains and not just a casual sex partner, but returns with books on tape. Tells him he can do it for himself, which I thought was nice actually. Teach a man to fish, and all that. Then, Serena leaves Leo. Yeah, it's tragic, but Serena's always been used for her brain and it's a touchy subject so she just wants to move on...to nothing. She has no other romantic prospects.
Leo does listen to Serena's poems on CD, and changes, and believes in love, and even writes his own poetry, which naturally wins over Serena's heart at the wedding ceremony. I'm sure they reconcile--in the naked ways--off the page. Perhaps they'll come back and tell me how great it was.
Seriously, most women read these stories for the vicarious thrill of passion. Whether they have it in real life, or not. I'd feel cheated if I had purchased a contemporary romance that had less action than a MG novel.
I'm again NOT saying that it's gotta be filthy, but give me something.
The Fireside Inn was a huge tease. It's the first in a romance novella series that follows Miles' friends, confirmed bachelors all, falling in love while planning Miles' wedding. If the first novella was this tame, I'm sure the others will be as well. The story was well-written, good word choice and all, but the characters were one-dimensional and the problems low-risk. The pivotal crisis was small-stakes, and the lack of ANY sexual heat made me feel like I'd been hornswaggled by the blurb. Just sayin'.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2014
Title: The Fireside Inn - Billionaire Bachelors Novella 1
Author: Lily Everett
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 1-7-2014
ISBN: 13-9781466854741
E-Book ASIN: B00F8GKEQQ
Pages: 105
Genre: Romance
Tags: Contemporary, Series, Novella
Miles Harrington, first introduced in the Billionaire Brothers Trilogy Book Three also which set on Sanctuary Island, gathers his three friends together to announce his engagement to Greta and his wedding plans. The three friends, Zane Bishop, CEO of Whatever Entertainment and owner of three highly successful Manhattan night clubs, Lord Leo Strathairn, playboy younger son of a wealthy English Lord, and Cooper Haynes, who is a self made billionaire, are floored by the news and at first try to dissuade him and then ask if he is being blackmailed into marriage. When they finally accept he loves Greta he asks each of his chosen groomsmen to do a task to help with the wedding. He wants Miles to arrange the wedding venue and reception. His request to Leo is that he choose a special reading for the wedding. Lastly he asks that Cooper arrange the honeymoon trip of a lifetime.
As the three prepare to depart the Biltmore Club and Miles announces that he is taking his private helicopter back to Sanctuary Island the men come up with a bet. Miles agrees to give the winner his helicopter and private access to club helicopter pad, something the other three can not hope to attain for years if ever, in exchange for their coming to the Island with him now. They are to stay until the wedding four weeks hence. The bet is that their lives will be changed forever and that they will find the loves of their lives before Miles walks down the aisle to say I do. Each man is confident he will win and accept the bet.
The Fireside Inn is the first in this novella trilogy is Leo Strathairn's story. When he arrives on Sanctuary Island and goes to the library he meets the head librarian, Selena Lightfoot. He asks her to help him with the selection to read at the wedding. Selena agrees to help until she discovers he actually wants her to find the piece for him. After a scathing lecture on living up to his responsibilities and his offering her a donation equal to the libraries next fiscal year's operation needs if she will do it, they compromise. Selena will research for items suitable to his needs and he will help with the final selection.
As the time passes the attraction between the two becomes stronger with each passing day. Both Selena and Leo are hiding secrets from their past which could destroy the fragile bond growing between them. Can their torn emotions survive when all is revealed or with their past keep them from achieving a loving future. Join them on Sanctuary Island as they travel the ever twisting road of romance and help them learn to embrace their hearts desires.
This is the story to warm you on these cold winter nights. A light romance novella that will make you laugh with the humorous dialog, cry at the anguish each of the leading characters endures, and have hope that tomorrow will bring the answers needed to heal the cracks in their hearts. I had such a fun time reading this series. Ms. Everett's style of writing reminds me of another author I used to read without question because it was guaranteed to make me laugh and lift my spirits no matter what was going on around me. Thank you NetGalley for providing this novella to me in exchange for my honest review.
Author: Lily Everett
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 1-7-2014
ISBN: 13-9781466854741
E-Book ASIN: B00F8GKEQQ
Pages: 105
Genre: Romance
Tags: Contemporary, Series, Novella
Miles Harrington, first introduced in the Billionaire Brothers Trilogy Book Three also which set on Sanctuary Island, gathers his three friends together to announce his engagement to Greta and his wedding plans. The three friends, Zane Bishop, CEO of Whatever Entertainment and owner of three highly successful Manhattan night clubs, Lord Leo Strathairn, playboy younger son of a wealthy English Lord, and Cooper Haynes, who is a self made billionaire, are floored by the news and at first try to dissuade him and then ask if he is being blackmailed into marriage. When they finally accept he loves Greta he asks each of his chosen groomsmen to do a task to help with the wedding. He wants Miles to arrange the wedding venue and reception. His request to Leo is that he choose a special reading for the wedding. Lastly he asks that Cooper arrange the honeymoon trip of a lifetime.
As the three prepare to depart the Biltmore Club and Miles announces that he is taking his private helicopter back to Sanctuary Island the men come up with a bet. Miles agrees to give the winner his helicopter and private access to club helicopter pad, something the other three can not hope to attain for years if ever, in exchange for their coming to the Island with him now. They are to stay until the wedding four weeks hence. The bet is that their lives will be changed forever and that they will find the loves of their lives before Miles walks down the aisle to say I do. Each man is confident he will win and accept the bet.
The Fireside Inn is the first in this novella trilogy is Leo Strathairn's story. When he arrives on Sanctuary Island and goes to the library he meets the head librarian, Selena Lightfoot. He asks her to help him with the selection to read at the wedding. Selena agrees to help until she discovers he actually wants her to find the piece for him. After a scathing lecture on living up to his responsibilities and his offering her a donation equal to the libraries next fiscal year's operation needs if she will do it, they compromise. Selena will research for items suitable to his needs and he will help with the final selection.
As the time passes the attraction between the two becomes stronger with each passing day. Both Selena and Leo are hiding secrets from their past which could destroy the fragile bond growing between them. Can their torn emotions survive when all is revealed or with their past keep them from achieving a loving future. Join them on Sanctuary Island as they travel the ever twisting road of romance and help them learn to embrace their hearts desires.
This is the story to warm you on these cold winter nights. A light romance novella that will make you laugh with the humorous dialog, cry at the anguish each of the leading characters endures, and have hope that tomorrow will bring the answers needed to heal the cracks in their hearts. I had such a fun time reading this series. Ms. Everett's style of writing reminds me of another author I used to read without question because it was guaranteed to make me laugh and lift my spirits no matter what was going on around me. Thank you NetGalley for providing this novella to me in exchange for my honest review.
June 27, 2017
I really enjoyed reading THE FIRESIDE INN by Lily Everett. The intro begins with Miles bringing his three confirmed bachelor best friends to the Billionaires Club so he can tell them he plans to marry and how he'd like them each to help. In the face of their disbelief and scoffing he offers up a pretty hefty bet they will all also find love in Sanctuary Island. This made me wonder what I would be reading. I am happy to say this was not another story of an arrogant billionaire who always gets his way and behaves however he wants because he has the power and money to get away with it.
I was very happy to find a sweet, romantic tale of a wealthy man with a long held secret that has made him vulnerable all of his life. Leo Strathairn's secret has held him captive in many ways for in guarding it he has also had to hold back his emotions in order to avoid discovery. This has made him a man who has never felt the love, understanding or comfort of another. When Miles asks him to select and do a reading about love during his wedding ceremony Leo feels completely ill-equipped for the job.
When Leo meets Serena Lightfoot, the Head Librarian at the public library in Sanctuary Island he believes she is the perfect person to assist him with his task. Serena has always had a kind and romantic heart, but since she was usually at the top of her classes the only thing boys, and then later men, seemed to notice was her brain. She's a little suspicious of a handsome man like Leo showing interest in her due to bitter disappointments in her own past. Too many times she was tricked by someone showing her attention only to discover they were only after her help by doing their assignments and never really cared for her. However, with his British accent and charm, his agreement to help her secure sponsors to help her library, and a sincere promise his only ulterior motive is that he plans use their time together to seduce her sweet body, she agrees to do the research for Leo and meet with him to go over her selections.
Leo and Serena have a strong initial attraction and wonderful chemistry that develops into something deeper. Through this connection Serena sees through the facade Leo has always hid behind to his potential and finds herself falling in love. Leo too is smitten by the quiet and honest strength of Serena. She is so different from the socialites and models he usually dates. At first glance they seem an unlikely pairing, but in truth Ms. Everett offers a perfectly matched couple with a very endearing story of love I rate with 4 stars.
*I received this eBook free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was very happy to find a sweet, romantic tale of a wealthy man with a long held secret that has made him vulnerable all of his life. Leo Strathairn's secret has held him captive in many ways for in guarding it he has also had to hold back his emotions in order to avoid discovery. This has made him a man who has never felt the love, understanding or comfort of another. When Miles asks him to select and do a reading about love during his wedding ceremony Leo feels completely ill-equipped for the job.
When Leo meets Serena Lightfoot, the Head Librarian at the public library in Sanctuary Island he believes she is the perfect person to assist him with his task. Serena has always had a kind and romantic heart, but since she was usually at the top of her classes the only thing boys, and then later men, seemed to notice was her brain. She's a little suspicious of a handsome man like Leo showing interest in her due to bitter disappointments in her own past. Too many times she was tricked by someone showing her attention only to discover they were only after her help by doing their assignments and never really cared for her. However, with his British accent and charm, his agreement to help her secure sponsors to help her library, and a sincere promise his only ulterior motive is that he plans use their time together to seduce her sweet body, she agrees to do the research for Leo and meet with him to go over her selections.
Leo and Serena have a strong initial attraction and wonderful chemistry that develops into something deeper. Through this connection Serena sees through the facade Leo has always hid behind to his potential and finds herself falling in love. Leo too is smitten by the quiet and honest strength of Serena. She is so different from the socialites and models he usually dates. At first glance they seem an unlikely pairing, but in truth Ms. Everett offers a perfectly matched couple with a very endearing story of love I rate with 4 stars.
*I received this eBook free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2014
“I’m betting each of you will find the course of your life forever altered by your trip to Sanctuary Island.”—Miles
Leo doesn’t believe in love and happily accepts a wager to prove he can resist falling in love while staying at Sanctuary Island until his friend’s wedding. When he runs into the lovely librarian, Serena, winning the wager seems less of a surefire bet. But it doesn’t matter how he feels; he’s sure someone as smart and beautiful as she couldn’t possibly love someone with his carefully guarded secret…
“What would a bright, clever woman like Serena want with a dullard like [me]?”—Leo’s thoughts
This is such a sweet book! We’ve got one lead searching for love and always being disappointed and another giving up on love, thinking he’s not worthy of it. Perfect match! It’s a shorter novella read so we don’t have many subplots going on—there’s the set-up for the series and the wager and then our two leads falling in love. We have plenty of time gaps over the month to move the story along and the romance heat scenes are low heat and fade-to-black.
Despite the story’s length, we get to know our two leads very well, and I loved that! Leo’s secret isn’t a horrible, scandalous, or kinky secret. It’s actually a life-long one that wouldn’t even be an issue if he had the proper support when younger. However, the impact is still huge on his life, and it’s easy to see why he’s still so embarrassed by it, especially given his task for the wedding. It’s easy to guess what his secret is early on, but I’ll hold back from revealing it in this review.
The book involves a billionaires club and the wealth seems unnecessarily high considering I’d have guess Leo to be a rich man, but not an insanely rich billionaire one. Being billionaires, I would have thought there’d be more display of excess, but there really wasn’t. This is a spinoff of another series where I think they were billionaires, too, so that’s probably why the trend’s continued here. Other than the fact that the wedding is between two from the previous books and brief mentions of some other characters, I wouldn’t have guessed this was a continuation of another series. Aside from the start, we don’t have any many more mentions of the other two leads in this series so aside from the intro, it feels standalone with no cliffhanger or couple-hinting. Overall, it’s an entertaining and sweet read. This is a 4.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Leo doesn’t believe in love and happily accepts a wager to prove he can resist falling in love while staying at Sanctuary Island until his friend’s wedding. When he runs into the lovely librarian, Serena, winning the wager seems less of a surefire bet. But it doesn’t matter how he feels; he’s sure someone as smart and beautiful as she couldn’t possibly love someone with his carefully guarded secret…
“What would a bright, clever woman like Serena want with a dullard like [me]?”—Leo’s thoughts
This is such a sweet book! We’ve got one lead searching for love and always being disappointed and another giving up on love, thinking he’s not worthy of it. Perfect match! It’s a shorter novella read so we don’t have many subplots going on—there’s the set-up for the series and the wager and then our two leads falling in love. We have plenty of time gaps over the month to move the story along and the romance heat scenes are low heat and fade-to-black.
Despite the story’s length, we get to know our two leads very well, and I loved that! Leo’s secret isn’t a horrible, scandalous, or kinky secret. It’s actually a life-long one that wouldn’t even be an issue if he had the proper support when younger. However, the impact is still huge on his life, and it’s easy to see why he’s still so embarrassed by it, especially given his task for the wedding. It’s easy to guess what his secret is early on, but I’ll hold back from revealing it in this review.
The book involves a billionaires club and the wealth seems unnecessarily high considering I’d have guess Leo to be a rich man, but not an insanely rich billionaire one. Being billionaires, I would have thought there’d be more display of excess, but there really wasn’t. This is a spinoff of another series where I think they were billionaires, too, so that’s probably why the trend’s continued here. Other than the fact that the wedding is between two from the previous books and brief mentions of some other characters, I wouldn’t have guessed this was a continuation of another series. Aside from the start, we don’t have any many more mentions of the other two leads in this series so aside from the intro, it feels standalone with no cliffhanger or couple-hinting. Overall, it’s an entertaining and sweet read. This is a 4.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
December 25, 2013
What do billionaire bachelors do when one of their own has found love and is being married on the beautiful Sanctuary Island? Of course, they make a wager, whoever comes to this amazing place and leaves after the wedding unchanged, unattached and without a new love of their own,wins a multimillion dollar helicopter. Yep, really. The Fireside Inn by Lily Everett is the first book in Billionaire Bachelor Trilogy, and we know these guys are going to fall in L-O-V-E, one by one, like dominoes, very rich dominoes. It isn't the outcome that's the big secret, its the journey and what a wonderful trip book one is!
Lord Leo Strathairn inherited his family’s money, his title, and his position in London's high society. But nothing could have prepared him for Sanctuary Island's head librarian, Serena. She is quirky, soft-hearted, yet strong and wary of Leo's attempts to do more than check out the books in the library. She has been fooled before, but underneath Leo's worldly, playboy exterior, there is a insecure man hiding a hidden shame and a kind and caring heart.
Fast, fun and light reading that will make you smile, Lily Everett writes with a breezy style that moves along quickly, highlighting the brighter side of falling in love when you least expect it.
I received an ARc edition from St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Billionaire Bachelors, Book 1
Publication Date: January 7, 2014
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
ISBN: 9781466854741
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Number of Pages: 32
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Lord Leo Strathairn inherited his family’s money, his title, and his position in London's high society. But nothing could have prepared him for Sanctuary Island's head librarian, Serena. She is quirky, soft-hearted, yet strong and wary of Leo's attempts to do more than check out the books in the library. She has been fooled before, but underneath Leo's worldly, playboy exterior, there is a insecure man hiding a hidden shame and a kind and caring heart.
Fast, fun and light reading that will make you smile, Lily Everett writes with a breezy style that moves along quickly, highlighting the brighter side of falling in love when you least expect it.
I received an ARc edition from St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Billionaire Bachelors, Book 1
Publication Date: January 7, 2014
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
ISBN: 9781466854741
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Number of Pages: 32
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
September 7, 2016
Posted on my blog 1/2/14
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
FIRESIDE INN: Are Unattached Flings Even Possible?
E-Galley provided by publisher via Net Galley for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own.
Though steamy and suggestive, this story is surprisingly tame. While I liked the relationship development, and the way the hero’s deep dark secret was treated was sensitive and empowering but the secret itself struck me as fairly unrealistic. It’s hard to imagine how, even with inherited money, one could make or maintain a fortune while hanging on to this secret.
Serena is apparently a hottie — a smart hottie who has been used by jocks in the past. She’s sort of willing to just have a hot affair with the guy but – you know what’s going to happen. Can someone even have a fling (other than a one-nighter) without an attachment developing?
In the Romance Genre, only cold paranormals seem capable of not having feelings about sex partners. So, I wonder, what do you think? Do you think it’s more likely possible for men or women?
When she discovers his secret, she is really mad because he lied to her. It’s all about her, I guess. Honestly, I didn’t get it. The reaction was way out of context.
Another thing I did not get was the Fireside Inn being the titular focus. It’s not on the island, or that was what I understood anyway. Also, most of the development of the relationship occurs outside. But, it’s romantic. And, while it is chilly, there doesn’t seem to be snow.
So, this island is apparently magical, having captured the hearts of three brothers including the original Billionaire, Miles. But his friends think their immune to love and attachment. But, the Island is going to snag them all, I bet because that’s the magic of it. Sounds fabulous.
Aside from the unrealistic nature of Leo’s secret and Serena’s reaction, the story is short and sweet. It’s not Shakespeare, but that’s okay it’s pure fantasy escapism. The emotional work done to achieve the ending happens off the page, so while it is lovely, I didn’t quite believe it. But, you know the deal – they all live happily ever after.
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
FIRESIDE INN: Are Unattached Flings Even Possible?
E-Galley provided by publisher via Net Galley for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own.
Though steamy and suggestive, this story is surprisingly tame. While I liked the relationship development, and the way the hero’s deep dark secret was treated was sensitive and empowering but the secret itself struck me as fairly unrealistic. It’s hard to imagine how, even with inherited money, one could make or maintain a fortune while hanging on to this secret.
Serena is apparently a hottie — a smart hottie who has been used by jocks in the past. She’s sort of willing to just have a hot affair with the guy but – you know what’s going to happen. Can someone even have a fling (other than a one-nighter) without an attachment developing?
In the Romance Genre, only cold paranormals seem capable of not having feelings about sex partners. So, I wonder, what do you think? Do you think it’s more likely possible for men or women?
When she discovers his secret, she is really mad because he lied to her. It’s all about her, I guess. Honestly, I didn’t get it. The reaction was way out of context.
Another thing I did not get was the Fireside Inn being the titular focus. It’s not on the island, or that was what I understood anyway. Also, most of the development of the relationship occurs outside. But, it’s romantic. And, while it is chilly, there doesn’t seem to be snow.
So, this island is apparently magical, having captured the hearts of three brothers including the original Billionaire, Miles. But his friends think their immune to love and attachment. But, the Island is going to snag them all, I bet because that’s the magic of it. Sounds fabulous.
Aside from the unrealistic nature of Leo’s secret and Serena’s reaction, the story is short and sweet. It’s not Shakespeare, but that’s okay it’s pure fantasy escapism. The emotional work done to achieve the ending happens off the page, so while it is lovely, I didn’t quite believe it. But, you know the deal – they all live happily ever after.
January 19, 2014
More reviews at http://losttobooks.blogspot.com
I've been looking for short romance novellas lately as because I've been busy with my own work I haven't had the time to read long novels. So, when I came across this series on NetGalley I requested them instantly. They looked perfect and exactly what I was after. However, this was the only one I was allowed access to so I was slightly disappointed as they all looked so good.
Anyway, The Fireside Inn was exactly what it say. It was a sweet romance that I engaged with easily and allowed me to escape my boring train journey for an hour. I was intrigued by the start instantly - with Miles making the other bachelors a bet. It was interesting and I liked how that was explained before the story moved onto Leo and Serena. I can only guess that the other books start similar and follow the other bachelors mentioned as they visit Sanctuary Island.
I found the romance and emotions to be believable and I engaged with the characters well for the short amount of pages. I may have liked a little more back story with Leo as there wasn't really much but the twist did surprise me. I wasn't expecting him to reveal what he did. I also liked Serena's stronger side when she showed it. Her passion for her job was evident throughout and I could relate well to her.
The only thing that irritated me slightly was that Leo, although a lord, was portrayed as the stereotypical Brit and some of the language used didn't seem natural. It seems Americans like this stereotype but as a British reader the constant referrals to his accent did annoy me slightly as that difference is always thrown in your face. A few times I can handle, but once you've stated the character is British why is there a constant need to remind the reader?
Overall though, The Fireside Inn was a quick, easy read that I thought flowed well. I liked the author's style and I think it made a nice change that the sex in this book is glossed over, and there is no description of it. It's a shame that I wasn't accepted to read the next two in the series as I would have loved to continue the series straight after finishing this novella on the train but oh well. If you're looking for a short, general romance check this novella out.
I've been looking for short romance novellas lately as because I've been busy with my own work I haven't had the time to read long novels. So, when I came across this series on NetGalley I requested them instantly. They looked perfect and exactly what I was after. However, this was the only one I was allowed access to so I was slightly disappointed as they all looked so good.
Anyway, The Fireside Inn was exactly what it say. It was a sweet romance that I engaged with easily and allowed me to escape my boring train journey for an hour. I was intrigued by the start instantly - with Miles making the other bachelors a bet. It was interesting and I liked how that was explained before the story moved onto Leo and Serena. I can only guess that the other books start similar and follow the other bachelors mentioned as they visit Sanctuary Island.
I found the romance and emotions to be believable and I engaged with the characters well for the short amount of pages. I may have liked a little more back story with Leo as there wasn't really much but the twist did surprise me. I wasn't expecting him to reveal what he did. I also liked Serena's stronger side when she showed it. Her passion for her job was evident throughout and I could relate well to her.
The only thing that irritated me slightly was that Leo, although a lord, was portrayed as the stereotypical Brit and some of the language used didn't seem natural. It seems Americans like this stereotype but as a British reader the constant referrals to his accent did annoy me slightly as that difference is always thrown in your face. A few times I can handle, but once you've stated the character is British why is there a constant need to remind the reader?
Overall though, The Fireside Inn was a quick, easy read that I thought flowed well. I liked the author's style and I think it made a nice change that the sex in this book is glossed over, and there is no description of it. It's a shame that I wasn't accepted to read the next two in the series as I would have loved to continue the series straight after finishing this novella on the train but oh well. If you're looking for a short, general romance check this novella out.
August 17, 2014
3.5 Stars
Hotness Rating 2 out of 5
The Fireside Inn is the first book of the Billionaire Bachelors series by Lily Everett. If you are looking for a sweet romance with minimal heat this is the story for you. I enjoyed the characters in the Billionaire Bachelors group and am looking forward to reading more from each of them.
Miles has let his group down or at least that's how Leo feels. Their little group has made a pact to always remain carefree bachelors. But, now after one stay on Sanctuary Island he swears he's found the love of his life and the Island played a part in it. He's getting married and has tasked each of his friends to play a specific part in contributing to the wedding. He's also, issued a dare. If any of the guys can leave the Island without finding their true love that man can have his personal helicopter and access to the Club's helipad.
Lord Leo Strathairn is happy to take the bet. He has no doubts that his heart is safe, but completing his task may be a bit harder. Because he's always quoting plays and such Miles has asked him to come up with the reading for the wedding. There's only one problem. Leo has a secret that is going to make finding the perfect piece for the wedding almost impossible.
Serena Lightfoot is passionate about her little Island library and will do just about anything to keep it open for another year. Every year she faces the same issue - trying to find donors and balancing the budget to keep everything running. When Leo shows up and offers to pay her for her help she is terribly offended, but offers a compromise. She'll help in exchange for an invite to the wedding, so that she can gain an audience with the wealthy on the Island that can donate money to save the library.
It was so much fun to see Leo fall hard. His secret was heartbreaking, but the ending made it all worth it.
This book was provided to me by NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
Hotness Rating 2 out of 5
The Fireside Inn is the first book of the Billionaire Bachelors series by Lily Everett. If you are looking for a sweet romance with minimal heat this is the story for you. I enjoyed the characters in the Billionaire Bachelors group and am looking forward to reading more from each of them.
Miles has let his group down or at least that's how Leo feels. Their little group has made a pact to always remain carefree bachelors. But, now after one stay on Sanctuary Island he swears he's found the love of his life and the Island played a part in it. He's getting married and has tasked each of his friends to play a specific part in contributing to the wedding. He's also, issued a dare. If any of the guys can leave the Island without finding their true love that man can have his personal helicopter and access to the Club's helipad.
Lord Leo Strathairn is happy to take the bet. He has no doubts that his heart is safe, but completing his task may be a bit harder. Because he's always quoting plays and such Miles has asked him to come up with the reading for the wedding. There's only one problem. Leo has a secret that is going to make finding the perfect piece for the wedding almost impossible.
Serena Lightfoot is passionate about her little Island library and will do just about anything to keep it open for another year. Every year she faces the same issue - trying to find donors and balancing the budget to keep everything running. When Leo shows up and offers to pay her for her help she is terribly offended, but offers a compromise. She'll help in exchange for an invite to the wedding, so that she can gain an audience with the wealthy on the Island that can donate money to save the library.
It was so much fun to see Leo fall hard. His secret was heartbreaking, but the ending made it all worth it.
This book was provided to me by NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
January 9, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This wasn't the WORST story I've ever read, but it wasn't great.
The gist: Miles Harrington is getting married. He makes a wager with three of his friends, Leo, Connor, and Zane. He's pretty positive that his three bachelor buddies will find love by the time he gets married. Fireside Inn is Leo's story. Miles asks Leo to do a poetic reading at the wedding. When Leo arrives on Sanctuary Island for the wedding, he goes straight to the local library. Leo has a problem though. He's dyslexic, so he needs the lovely librarian to read the poems to him. Serena agrees to help him find the perfect poem in exchange for an invitation to the wedding. Serena would like to ask some of the wealthy guests for donations to the tiny library.
This story had some potential, but the characters killed it for me. They had zero depth. While there were back stories for Leo and Serena, they were weak at best. The characters weren't necessarily unlikable, but I just felt absolutely nothing for them. There was nothing about either one of them to endear me to them. I simply didn't CARE about them. Then you have both of them taking offense to almost every other thing they say to each other. It was pretty much ridiculous.
The writing style was 'off' for me too. It was choppy and just seemed sort of adolescent. The details weren't always consistent. In one scene, Serena is described as wearing a fleece pullover/sweatshirt more than once. And then, suddenly, they're embracing and he's gripping her t-shirt. After they have mad, passionate sex, he reaches for his pants, puts his shirt back on & buttons it, and then shakes out his trousers before putting them on. On that same note, this is an island off the coast of Virginia and it's winter. It's mentioned that it's cool outside, yet they have sex on a clifftop. It just doesn't fit.
Overall, nothing about this story appealed to me.
This wasn't the WORST story I've ever read, but it wasn't great.
The gist: Miles Harrington is getting married. He makes a wager with three of his friends, Leo, Connor, and Zane. He's pretty positive that his three bachelor buddies will find love by the time he gets married. Fireside Inn is Leo's story. Miles asks Leo to do a poetic reading at the wedding. When Leo arrives on Sanctuary Island for the wedding, he goes straight to the local library. Leo has a problem though. He's dyslexic, so he needs the lovely librarian to read the poems to him. Serena agrees to help him find the perfect poem in exchange for an invitation to the wedding. Serena would like to ask some of the wealthy guests for donations to the tiny library.
This story had some potential, but the characters killed it for me. They had zero depth. While there were back stories for Leo and Serena, they were weak at best. The characters weren't necessarily unlikable, but I just felt absolutely nothing for them. There was nothing about either one of them to endear me to them. I simply didn't CARE about them. Then you have both of them taking offense to almost every other thing they say to each other. It was pretty much ridiculous.
The writing style was 'off' for me too. It was choppy and just seemed sort of adolescent. The details weren't always consistent. In one scene, Serena is described as wearing a fleece pullover/sweatshirt more than once. And then, suddenly, they're embracing and he's gripping her t-shirt. After they have mad, passionate sex, he reaches for his pants, puts his shirt back on & buttons it, and then shakes out his trousers before putting them on. On that same note, this is an island off the coast of Virginia and it's winter. It's mentioned that it's cool outside, yet they have sex on a clifftop. It just doesn't fit.
Overall, nothing about this story appealed to me.
September 12, 2016
In the interest of full disclosure, I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press and Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
I enjoyed this novella and would rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars. The novella was well written and the story was interesting but I found myself wanting more depth in several areas.
At the opening of the story, we meet Miles, Leo and a couple of their wealthy friends. Miles is getting married and make a bet with his Billionaire friends that if they come to Sanctuary Island to help him get ready for his wedding that they will also fall in love. They agree and go to the Island.
Leo has been given the task of performing a reading at the wedding. Leo often sounds poetic so this should be good fit for him. He decided to go to the local library where he meets Serena, the librarian. Leo convinces Serena to help him with the reading and also tells her that he plans to seduce her. They grow close while working on Leo's assignment.
This novella had several areas that I would have liked to see a bit more. I think a more complete back story into Leo's past would have developed his character quite well. The same really applies to Serena. The main conflict between this two characters is based upon their past so understanding exactly what they had gone through and what they had felt would have added to the plot. I also would have liked to see what each character was doing during the time between the conflict and the wedding. This just seemed like the ideal time for one of the central characters to reach out to the other.
Even though I would have liked to see more in some areas of the novella, I did thoroughly enjoy the story. I really liked the author's style of writing and plan to look for one of her full length books which may give me that "more" that I seem to want.
I enjoyed this novella and would rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars. The novella was well written and the story was interesting but I found myself wanting more depth in several areas.
At the opening of the story, we meet Miles, Leo and a couple of their wealthy friends. Miles is getting married and make a bet with his Billionaire friends that if they come to Sanctuary Island to help him get ready for his wedding that they will also fall in love. They agree and go to the Island.
Leo has been given the task of performing a reading at the wedding. Leo often sounds poetic so this should be good fit for him. He decided to go to the local library where he meets Serena, the librarian. Leo convinces Serena to help him with the reading and also tells her that he plans to seduce her. They grow close while working on Leo's assignment.
This novella had several areas that I would have liked to see a bit more. I think a more complete back story into Leo's past would have developed his character quite well. The same really applies to Serena. The main conflict between this two characters is based upon their past so understanding exactly what they had gone through and what they had felt would have added to the plot. I also would have liked to see what each character was doing during the time between the conflict and the wedding. This just seemed like the ideal time for one of the central characters to reach out to the other.
Even though I would have liked to see more in some areas of the novella, I did thoroughly enjoy the story. I really liked the author's style of writing and plan to look for one of her full length books which may give me that "more" that I seem to want.
January 11, 2014
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
This is a sweet romantic novella about some handsome and very rich men that refuse to fall in love, like one of their best friends Miles did. When they all surprisingly get invited to Miles and Greta's wedding the men are shocked that one of the bachelors is getting hitched. Miles decides to have a bet that they will find love while on Sanctuary Island, like he did, and whoever doesn't will get one of his most prized procession's. The men all agree. Miles is convinced there is something special about this island and that is where the wedding will be held.
All the men are asked to do a task for the wedding and Leo gets the task of doing a special reading for the ceremony. Miles thinks Leo is a poet at heart, but doesn't realize he has a secret that could make this very difficult for him to do. Leo goes to the local library in Sanctuary Island and pleads with the beautiful librarian, Serena to help him with this task. They are both drawn to each other from the start, but Serena is weary of this handsome British man, and Leo just thinks its a sexual attraction and that's it. Serena decides to help him, and while they spend a lot of time together, they realize there is more going on between them than they ever expected.
This was a very heartwarming read. It was short but very sweet. It was just what I needed after some heavier reading I just did, so it was nice. There isn't any erotic aspects in this book at all but sometimes a lot of romance is in order, and this book delivers on the romance aspect. I love erotica, so for me it would have been nice to have a little in this book, but I still loved the storyline.
This is a sweet romantic novella about some handsome and very rich men that refuse to fall in love, like one of their best friends Miles did. When they all surprisingly get invited to Miles and Greta's wedding the men are shocked that one of the bachelors is getting hitched. Miles decides to have a bet that they will find love while on Sanctuary Island, like he did, and whoever doesn't will get one of his most prized procession's. The men all agree. Miles is convinced there is something special about this island and that is where the wedding will be held.
All the men are asked to do a task for the wedding and Leo gets the task of doing a special reading for the ceremony. Miles thinks Leo is a poet at heart, but doesn't realize he has a secret that could make this very difficult for him to do. Leo goes to the local library in Sanctuary Island and pleads with the beautiful librarian, Serena to help him with this task. They are both drawn to each other from the start, but Serena is weary of this handsome British man, and Leo just thinks its a sexual attraction and that's it. Serena decides to help him, and while they spend a lot of time together, they realize there is more going on between them than they ever expected.
This was a very heartwarming read. It was short but very sweet. It was just what I needed after some heavier reading I just did, so it was nice. There isn't any erotic aspects in this book at all but sometimes a lot of romance is in order, and this book delivers on the romance aspect. I love erotica, so for me it would have been nice to have a little in this book, but I still loved the storyline.
June 25, 2016
I am drawn to all books and novellas that have the some form of the word "Billionaire" in the title. After reading the book blurb, I just had to read Fireside Inn. This is the first book I have read by Lily Everett and it certainly won't be the last.
This story is about four billionaires who are also very good friends. Miles Harrington is the oldest and he is getting married to the love of his life on the island of Sanctuary Cove. Miles professes that the island is the cure-all for the lovelorn and bets his friends, that by the time of his wedding, they will all have experienced the magic of finding love in Sanctuary Cove. This novella focuses on Lord Leo Strathairn, a handsome billionaire of old British money. Leo harbors a secret that he has never shared with anyone, that is until he meets Serena Lightfoot, the head librarian of the Sanctuary Cove Library.
Serena is an extremely smart and attractive woman. She enjoys managing the small library immensely and will do whatever fundraising is necessary to keep it open for all to enjoy. When Leo approaches her about helping him find the perfect reading for Miles' wedding, she agrees on the condition that Leo will introduce her to some of the people that may be able to make a substantial donation to the library.
Serena and Leo have instant chemistry and their platonic relationship evolves into much more very quickly. However, in order for them to have a future together, they must learn how to let go of their insecurities.
Fireside Inn is an sweet, fast-paced novella. The characters are well-defined, likeable and real. If you have some time to spare, you may want to spend it in Sanctuary Cove.
I received this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This story is about four billionaires who are also very good friends. Miles Harrington is the oldest and he is getting married to the love of his life on the island of Sanctuary Cove. Miles professes that the island is the cure-all for the lovelorn and bets his friends, that by the time of his wedding, they will all have experienced the magic of finding love in Sanctuary Cove. This novella focuses on Lord Leo Strathairn, a handsome billionaire of old British money. Leo harbors a secret that he has never shared with anyone, that is until he meets Serena Lightfoot, the head librarian of the Sanctuary Cove Library.
Serena is an extremely smart and attractive woman. She enjoys managing the small library immensely and will do whatever fundraising is necessary to keep it open for all to enjoy. When Leo approaches her about helping him find the perfect reading for Miles' wedding, she agrees on the condition that Leo will introduce her to some of the people that may be able to make a substantial donation to the library.
Serena and Leo have instant chemistry and their platonic relationship evolves into much more very quickly. However, in order for them to have a future together, they must learn how to let go of their insecurities.
Fireside Inn is an sweet, fast-paced novella. The characters are well-defined, likeable and real. If you have some time to spare, you may want to spend it in Sanctuary Cove.
I received this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2013
This was a quick and simple read.
While I’m sure it’s not necessary, I think I’ll have to go read the previous series of books set in Sanctuary Island. I wanted to read this because I was in the mood for a typical, formulaic romance and that’s exactly what I got. But since I didn’t read the previous books set on the island, I don’t know if the scene was set already or if Everett was intentionally vague with the details.
It’s a novella, so I wasn’t expecting much detail, but I would’ve like more information on the town. Again, I’m assuming that’s information I can get reading earlier works. It’s not a big deal that the information wasn’t there. But I was confused as to why the book is titled “The Fireside Inn” when not much is given about it and the setting didn’t really help nor hinder the plot.
I more disappointed with the lack of a written sex scene. It’s hard when the hero gets talked up as a playboy and the readers don’t get to see what he’s working with. However, the novella does just fine without one. I wish there had been more glimpses into Leo and Serena’s developing feelings because we go from them meeting, the next day they have sex, fast forward a couple weeks, and they have the blow up. Then another week passes, the wedding’s here, they declare lover for each other, the end. I think a couple scenes where Serena is showing Leo around the island and doing things that don’t involve them researching poetry couldn’t have hurt.
But I liked the simplicity and basic plot filled with the overreacting melodrama that I love so much in my romance.
And not once did I roll my eyes.
3 Stars.
While I’m sure it’s not necessary, I think I’ll have to go read the previous series of books set in Sanctuary Island. I wanted to read this because I was in the mood for a typical, formulaic romance and that’s exactly what I got. But since I didn’t read the previous books set on the island, I don’t know if the scene was set already or if Everett was intentionally vague with the details.
It’s a novella, so I wasn’t expecting much detail, but I would’ve like more information on the town. Again, I’m assuming that’s information I can get reading earlier works. It’s not a big deal that the information wasn’t there. But I was confused as to why the book is titled “The Fireside Inn” when not much is given about it and the setting didn’t really help nor hinder the plot.
I more disappointed with the lack of a written sex scene. It’s hard when the hero gets talked up as a playboy and the readers don’t get to see what he’s working with. However, the novella does just fine without one. I wish there had been more glimpses into Leo and Serena’s developing feelings because we go from them meeting, the next day they have sex, fast forward a couple weeks, and they have the blow up. Then another week passes, the wedding’s here, they declare lover for each other, the end. I think a couple scenes where Serena is showing Leo around the island and doing things that don’t involve them researching poetry couldn’t have hurt.
But I liked the simplicity and basic plot filled with the overreacting melodrama that I love so much in my romance.
And not once did I roll my eyes.
3 Stars.
July 8, 2015
Originally published on Tales to Tide You Over
This novella is a sweet romance about overcoming the past and taking a chance on love. It tackles the hard question of belief in yourself through two different perspectives, Leo and Serena, the lead characters. In both their cases, trust and confidence has been systematically crushed numerous times in their lives by people who have a lot in common with other character, Serena by over-privileged jocks and Leo by academics. The situation in the novella looks to both of them like more of the same, for very good, viable reasons. Serena and Leo have much to figure out and it’s beautiful watching them do so. It’s not a miscommunication story but rather one in which the secret is too big to tell, and too big to hold back.
I can’t tell you much more without undermining the complexity but I will say the prologue, while setting up the placement, does not indicate the tenor of the story to come. The prologue is about three committed bachelor billionaires who are all about the high-flying life, enough that the challenge to not fall in love with a helicopter for a prize seems reasonable. This did not appeal all that much. I’m glad I kept going though, because the novella is not about rich people throwing around their money. Instead, it focuses on Leo trying to make good on a promise to his friend Miles. The promise is much more complicated than his friend could have imagined because of something that Leo has admitted to no one, but which is deeply tied to why he left England, where he’s titled and rich, to start over in New York.
P.P.S. I got this title from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This novella is a sweet romance about overcoming the past and taking a chance on love. It tackles the hard question of belief in yourself through two different perspectives, Leo and Serena, the lead characters. In both their cases, trust and confidence has been systematically crushed numerous times in their lives by people who have a lot in common with other character, Serena by over-privileged jocks and Leo by academics. The situation in the novella looks to both of them like more of the same, for very good, viable reasons. Serena and Leo have much to figure out and it’s beautiful watching them do so. It’s not a miscommunication story but rather one in which the secret is too big to tell, and too big to hold back.
I can’t tell you much more without undermining the complexity but I will say the prologue, while setting up the placement, does not indicate the tenor of the story to come. The prologue is about three committed bachelor billionaires who are all about the high-flying life, enough that the challenge to not fall in love with a helicopter for a prize seems reasonable. This did not appeal all that much. I’m glad I kept going though, because the novella is not about rich people throwing around their money. Instead, it focuses on Leo trying to make good on a promise to his friend Miles. The promise is much more complicated than his friend could have imagined because of something that Leo has admitted to no one, but which is deeply tied to why he left England, where he’s titled and rich, to start over in New York.
P.P.S. I got this title from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 8, 2014
I confess that I am a reader who winces at the word “billionaire” in connection with romance fiction, a reaction even more pronounced in the wake of the Fifty Shades phenomenon. But I have learned as a reader that I can usually trust writers whose earlier books I have loved not to mislead me. I read Lily Everett’s Billionaire Brothers series because I enjoyed the books she wrote as Louisa Edwards, and I was not disappointed. They sold me on the magic of Sanctuary Island, and I was eager to return with the new books. The first one met all expectations.
Leo is a swoon-worthy hero, and his vulnerability in light of his secret makes him even more appealing. The wedding scene left me smiling with teary eyes. I also liked Serena a lot. Intelligent heroines who are passionate about books are almost certain to earn two thumbs up from me. Their romance is sweet and satisfying. The first kiss happens awfully quickly, but the pace is balanced by the conversations during which Leo and Serena share on a surprisingly intimate level. The glimpses of the wedding of Miles and Greta were a bonus.
If you are looking for a quick read that is rewarding and almost certain to make you impatient for the stories of the other Billionaire Bachelors, I suggest you download The Fireside Inn this coming Tuesday. Readers who read the first series will definitely enjoy the references to familiar characters, but readers new to Sanctuary Island will have no difficulty following Leo and Serena’s story.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
Leo is a swoon-worthy hero, and his vulnerability in light of his secret makes him even more appealing. The wedding scene left me smiling with teary eyes. I also liked Serena a lot. Intelligent heroines who are passionate about books are almost certain to earn two thumbs up from me. Their romance is sweet and satisfying. The first kiss happens awfully quickly, but the pace is balanced by the conversations during which Leo and Serena share on a surprisingly intimate level. The glimpses of the wedding of Miles and Greta were a bonus.
If you are looking for a quick read that is rewarding and almost certain to make you impatient for the stories of the other Billionaire Bachelors, I suggest you download The Fireside Inn this coming Tuesday. Readers who read the first series will definitely enjoy the references to familiar characters, but readers new to Sanctuary Island will have no difficulty following Leo and Serena’s story.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
January 13, 2014
When Brit Lord Leo Strathairn is asked to do a reading at his best friend Miles' wedding on the small Sanctuary Island in Virginia, he agrees even though he is hiding a secret from his friends. Wanting to keep them in the dark, he goes to the local library and meets head librarian, Serena Lightfoot. Using all of his charm, he gets Serena to agree to help him - all without revealing his secret.
Serena has always been unlucky in love. She was always attracted to men who only wanted her brain more than her body and once they had what they needed, they dumped her. She was wary of Leo at first but when the sparks between them fly, she is hopeful that she will finally meet someone who wants every last bit of her. But when she discovers Leo's secret, Serena realizes he is just like every other man who has come into her life.
She and Leo realize they are perfect for one another in this sweet little novella. This book is the perfect read for anyone looking for a wonderful, light romance. There is no sex, although it is alluded to, and yet these characters still manage to make you swoon. Leo is the atypical alpha male who thinks doesn't want anyone to know his weakness. And Serena was a nice change from the "men only want to screw me and then leave me" female character that we normally see in these books. The way Leo manages to make Serena know just how much he loves her really makes this book complete. I loved this novella and I am looking forward to reading more by Ms. Everett!
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Serena has always been unlucky in love. She was always attracted to men who only wanted her brain more than her body and once they had what they needed, they dumped her. She was wary of Leo at first but when the sparks between them fly, she is hopeful that she will finally meet someone who wants every last bit of her. But when she discovers Leo's secret, Serena realizes he is just like every other man who has come into her life.
She and Leo realize they are perfect for one another in this sweet little novella. This book is the perfect read for anyone looking for a wonderful, light romance. There is no sex, although it is alluded to, and yet these characters still manage to make you swoon. Leo is the atypical alpha male who thinks doesn't want anyone to know his weakness. And Serena was a nice change from the "men only want to screw me and then leave me" female character that we normally see in these books. The way Leo manages to make Serena know just how much he loves her really makes this book complete. I loved this novella and I am looking forward to reading more by Ms. Everett!
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2014
3.5 stars.
This is the first novella The Billionaire Bachelors series by Lily Everett, and centres around Leo Strathairn, an English lord living in the US, who finds himself on a small island helping his friend get ready for his wedding. In the Prologue we are introduced to Miles, the groom, and his three best friends, Leo, Zane and Cooper and I liked this short intro as I jumped straight into this novella without reading Mile's story in The Billionaire Brothers trilogy. Miles sets his friends a bet, whoever can got to Sanctuary Island and not loose their heart can have his prized helicopter on their return. Of course, the 3 friends think this is a safe bet that they are not going to loose.
The Fireside Inn is a short, sweet, sexy love story with no explicit love scenes and not too much angst. Leo meets Serena, a librarian on Sanctuary Island and they both feel an instant attraction and connection to each other. Both Leo and Serena have their own issues and this novella is about learning to trust another with your personal story and with your heart. Leo and Serena are both from completely different lifestyles and backgrounds and it felt like an old fashioned boy-meets-girl love story with no outside negative distractions or influences. At times I did feel a bit rushed in certain places but for a short novella, it still had emotion and I was curious to see how the story ended.
Overall The Fireside Inn was a light, enjoyable read.
Next in line is Zane's story, followed by Cooper's.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the publisher
This is the first novella The Billionaire Bachelors series by Lily Everett, and centres around Leo Strathairn, an English lord living in the US, who finds himself on a small island helping his friend get ready for his wedding. In the Prologue we are introduced to Miles, the groom, and his three best friends, Leo, Zane and Cooper and I liked this short intro as I jumped straight into this novella without reading Mile's story in The Billionaire Brothers trilogy. Miles sets his friends a bet, whoever can got to Sanctuary Island and not loose their heart can have his prized helicopter on their return. Of course, the 3 friends think this is a safe bet that they are not going to loose.
The Fireside Inn is a short, sweet, sexy love story with no explicit love scenes and not too much angst. Leo meets Serena, a librarian on Sanctuary Island and they both feel an instant attraction and connection to each other. Both Leo and Serena have their own issues and this novella is about learning to trust another with your personal story and with your heart. Leo and Serena are both from completely different lifestyles and backgrounds and it felt like an old fashioned boy-meets-girl love story with no outside negative distractions or influences. At times I did feel a bit rushed in certain places but for a short novella, it still had emotion and I was curious to see how the story ended.
Overall The Fireside Inn was a light, enjoyable read.
Next in line is Zane's story, followed by Cooper's.
copy kindly provided by Netgalley and the publisher
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