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Baiting the Boss
For years Grace Owens harbored a secret crush on her boss, Jack Macintyre, the heir to the Macintyre Corporation. But Jack relocates to a remote tropical island after tragedy upends his life, cutting off all contact. Now Grace's new boss issues an ultimatum: return Jack to the family fold or pack her briefcase and move on.
When she turns up at Jack's bungalow, he can't deny his attraction to the fiery woman determined to lure him out of his tropical paradise. Little does she know that returning is the last thing he wants--he's nobody's boss, and he likes it that way.
If he stays, she'll lose her job. If he goes, she'll lose her heart.
When she turns up at Jack's bungalow, he can't deny his attraction to the fiery woman determined to lure him out of his tropical paradise. Little does she know that returning is the last thing he wants--he's nobody's boss, and he likes it that way.
If he stays, she'll lose her job. If he goes, she'll lose her heart.
184 pages, Unknown Binding
First published October 14, 2013
3 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Coleen Kwan
31 books159 followersColeen Kwan writes contemporary and steampunk romance for Carina Press and Entangled Publishing.
Coleen has been a bookworm all her life. At school English was her favorite subject, but for some reason she decided on a career in IT. After many years of programming, she wondered what else there was in life — and discovered writing. She loves writing contemporary romance and steampunk romance.
Coleen lives in Sydney, Australia with her partner and two children. When she isn’t writing she enjoys avoiding housework, eating chocolate, and watching The Office.
Coleen has been a bookworm all her life. At school English was her favorite subject, but for some reason she decided on a career in IT. After many years of programming, she wondered what else there was in life — and discovered writing. She loves writing contemporary romance and steampunk romance.
Coleen lives in Sydney, Australia with her partner and two children. When she isn’t writing she enjoys avoiding housework, eating chocolate, and watching The Office.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 13, 2014
Rated 3.5 Stars. When Grace Owen travels in search of her bosses' grandson, she doesn't expect to fall in love with his island lifestyle, or the man himself.
Grace Owen is used to doing Lachlan Macintyre's laundry list of work that no one else wants to do. She has been his person in charge of 'special projects' since she graduated from college, always hoping to have her talents recognized with a management promotion. Not a world traveler, she has made Sydney, Australia her home, with dreams of someday owning an apartment in a high-rise there. When Lachlan asks her to find his wandering grandson, who quit the family business three years ago, Grace thinks of it as her one last chance to prove her worthiness for that promotion.
After traveling for a couple years, Jack Macintyre spends a year on a small Pacific island between Australia and Hawaii. He enjoys the people, who have a laid-back lifestyle, and has been helping them to rebuild after a storm damaged many of their buildings. Always assumed to become the future CEO of his family's business, he sold off his shares and walked away after the last argument with his grandfather, when he expected Jack to work through the grief of his wife's death. Jack appreciated his grandfather for raising him after his parents died, but Lachlan's stringent work ethics have caused Jack to rethink what's really important.
Grace has always been somewhat in love with Jack, having admired him when they met after she graduated from college. But they're from completely different worlds, with Jack still missing his late wife, and Grace being too much of a professional to risk her career with an interoffice romance. Out of respect for Jack's grandfather, who just turned eighty-years-old, Grace feels it's important to reunite this family before it's too late. Can she accomplish her goal without falling more in love with Jack in the process?
Beginning on a tropical island and continuing in Sydney, Australia, BAITING THE BOSS is a sweet, contemporary romance that focuses on the relationships between the characters as its plot. Grace and Jack's passion for one another is moderately sensual, but the overall feel of the romance is sweet. The tropical island comes alive more so than Australia as the final setting for the novel, so I didn't get as much flavor from that location as I wished for. There were some excellent heart-rending moments toward the end of the story that were the best part of the book for me, resulting in a satisfying happy-ever-after. Those who love a relationship-driven contemporary romance should enjoy Coleen Kwan's style.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
Grace Owen is used to doing Lachlan Macintyre's laundry list of work that no one else wants to do. She has been his person in charge of 'special projects' since she graduated from college, always hoping to have her talents recognized with a management promotion. Not a world traveler, she has made Sydney, Australia her home, with dreams of someday owning an apartment in a high-rise there. When Lachlan asks her to find his wandering grandson, who quit the family business three years ago, Grace thinks of it as her one last chance to prove her worthiness for that promotion.
After traveling for a couple years, Jack Macintyre spends a year on a small Pacific island between Australia and Hawaii. He enjoys the people, who have a laid-back lifestyle, and has been helping them to rebuild after a storm damaged many of their buildings. Always assumed to become the future CEO of his family's business, he sold off his shares and walked away after the last argument with his grandfather, when he expected Jack to work through the grief of his wife's death. Jack appreciated his grandfather for raising him after his parents died, but Lachlan's stringent work ethics have caused Jack to rethink what's really important.
Grace has always been somewhat in love with Jack, having admired him when they met after she graduated from college. But they're from completely different worlds, with Jack still missing his late wife, and Grace being too much of a professional to risk her career with an interoffice romance. Out of respect for Jack's grandfather, who just turned eighty-years-old, Grace feels it's important to reunite this family before it's too late. Can she accomplish her goal without falling more in love with Jack in the process?
Beginning on a tropical island and continuing in Sydney, Australia, BAITING THE BOSS is a sweet, contemporary romance that focuses on the relationships between the characters as its plot. Grace and Jack's passion for one another is moderately sensual, but the overall feel of the romance is sweet. The tropical island comes alive more so than Australia as the final setting for the novel, so I didn't get as much flavor from that location as I wished for. There were some excellent heart-rending moments toward the end of the story that were the best part of the book for me, resulting in a satisfying happy-ever-after. Those who love a relationship-driven contemporary romance should enjoy Coleen Kwan's style.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
October 16, 2013
This was a good quick read; the writing is good and flows smoothly. The chemistry between the characters is very good and I enjoyed watching them follow their path to love.
Grace is the ‘Special Projects Coordinator’ for the CEO of Macintyre Industries, isn’t that a nice title for glorified gofer? She has been sent by her boss to retrieve his grandson Jack from the remote island he retreated to after the death of his wife three years before. While it’s not explicitly stated Grace is sure that her job and future growth in the company depend on her accomplishing the goal set to her. Jack meanwhile is determined to stay in isolation on the island and NEVER return to Sidney. Like I said before the chemistry between these two is great and while they both try to fight the attraction it’s a losing battle. Before his wife’s death Jack and Grace had been friends and she had nursed a secret crush on him. It is my opinion that he had deeper feelings for her as well but he did not allow himself to acknowledge them out of loyalty to his wife (which I liked). This story is all about the struggle: to resist each other; to not go back to Sidney; to not be vulnerable; to not get sucked back in to the company; to not be a door mat. It’s all there and it was fun to watch it develop. I will say however the end seemed a little abrupt and I would have love an epilogue to give us a little peek a bit further down the road. Jack had a cousin Cameron who intrigued me so maybe he’ll get a book and we can have another peek at Jack and Grace there.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Grace is the ‘Special Projects Coordinator’ for the CEO of Macintyre Industries, isn’t that a nice title for glorified gofer? She has been sent by her boss to retrieve his grandson Jack from the remote island he retreated to after the death of his wife three years before. While it’s not explicitly stated Grace is sure that her job and future growth in the company depend on her accomplishing the goal set to her. Jack meanwhile is determined to stay in isolation on the island and NEVER return to Sidney. Like I said before the chemistry between these two is great and while they both try to fight the attraction it’s a losing battle. Before his wife’s death Jack and Grace had been friends and she had nursed a secret crush on him. It is my opinion that he had deeper feelings for her as well but he did not allow himself to acknowledge them out of loyalty to his wife (which I liked). This story is all about the struggle: to resist each other; to not go back to Sidney; to not be vulnerable; to not get sucked back in to the company; to not be a door mat. It’s all there and it was fun to watch it develop. I will say however the end seemed a little abrupt and I would have love an epilogue to give us a little peek a bit further down the road. Jack had a cousin Cameron who intrigued me so maybe he’ll get a book and we can have another peek at Jack and Grace there.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2013
Posted on What I'm Reading
I got a chance to read Baiting the Boss by Coleen Kwan. I enjoy Coleen's other books, so I was super excited to see she was coming out with a new story. This a fairly fast read, which I happen to enjoy reading.
In the story we meet Grace Owens, and she has been working Macintyre Industries for about three years. Well, she was tasked to go find Jack the grandson of the CEO of Macintyre Industries, who happens to be on some tropical island.
Jack Macintyre decided to run away from the life he use to live after his wife tragically died. He had no desires to return to Sydney, but he feels like he needs to go back to save Grace from his grandfather.
I did enjoy Baiting the Boss. I love the flow of the writing, because it just made the story move along. The story was pretty sweet and nice with a dash of heat. There is a little tension between Jack and Grace, and it all stems from the grandfather. I felt a bit bad for Grace cause she was kind of abuse by Jack and his grandfather. Nothing physical, but more they had selfish tendency and Grace happens to be caught in the middle. Of course we all know everything works out in the end, but it's how they get to the end that matters. So, if you are looking for that sweet romance that is fairly fast, you might want to try Baiting the Boss.
Copy provided by publisher
I got a chance to read Baiting the Boss by Coleen Kwan. I enjoy Coleen's other books, so I was super excited to see she was coming out with a new story. This a fairly fast read, which I happen to enjoy reading.
In the story we meet Grace Owens, and she has been working Macintyre Industries for about three years. Well, she was tasked to go find Jack the grandson of the CEO of Macintyre Industries, who happens to be on some tropical island.
Jack Macintyre decided to run away from the life he use to live after his wife tragically died. He had no desires to return to Sydney, but he feels like he needs to go back to save Grace from his grandfather.
I did enjoy Baiting the Boss. I love the flow of the writing, because it just made the story move along. The story was pretty sweet and nice with a dash of heat. There is a little tension between Jack and Grace, and it all stems from the grandfather. I felt a bit bad for Grace cause she was kind of abuse by Jack and his grandfather. Nothing physical, but more they had selfish tendency and Grace happens to be caught in the middle. Of course we all know everything works out in the end, but it's how they get to the end that matters. So, if you are looking for that sweet romance that is fairly fast, you might want to try Baiting the Boss.
Copy provided by publisher
October 15, 2013
Grace always has a crush on Jack Macintyre but could never doing anything about it. A few months into her career at Macintyre Corporation Jack has a falling out with his grandfather, the CEO, and drops off the face of the earth.
Three years later Jack’s grandfather is getting ready to retire and wants the family company in good hands, so Grace is sent to track down Jack.
Grace forgot just how much she liked Jack till she is forced to chase him down and bring him back to Macintyre Corporation, and things start to get dangerous once she finds him. Grace is looking for stability after a childhood without it and Jack threatens everything.
Grace and Jack have an undeniable attraction but Jack is just looking for a fling, even though he knows Grace is not that type of girl.
Jack was an easy character to love, he had a lot of heartache in his past and doesn’t want to repeat it again. Grace is an honest character, just looking for a place in the world where she’s stable and loved.
I really liked the book, it didn’t take me long to read it, and it moved along fairly quickly. My only problem with the book was this end, it felt forced, it was like boom boom DONE! I think the book could have used another 20 pages and an epilogue to really polish off the story and pull everything together.
I did receive this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Three years later Jack’s grandfather is getting ready to retire and wants the family company in good hands, so Grace is sent to track down Jack.
Grace forgot just how much she liked Jack till she is forced to chase him down and bring him back to Macintyre Corporation, and things start to get dangerous once she finds him. Grace is looking for stability after a childhood without it and Jack threatens everything.
Grace and Jack have an undeniable attraction but Jack is just looking for a fling, even though he knows Grace is not that type of girl.
Jack was an easy character to love, he had a lot of heartache in his past and doesn’t want to repeat it again. Grace is an honest character, just looking for a place in the world where she’s stable and loved.
I really liked the book, it didn’t take me long to read it, and it moved along fairly quickly. My only problem with the book was this end, it felt forced, it was like boom boom DONE! I think the book could have used another 20 pages and an epilogue to really polish off the story and pull everything together.
I did receive this book as an ARC for an honest review.
October 12, 2013
Grace Owens works for Lachlan Macintyre. He sends Grace to find his grandson, Jack, and convince him to return to the family company. That will not be an easy task. These two stubborn men have been estranged for three years. Grace tracks Jack to Filemu Island. As expected he refuses to return and demands that she leave immediately, but Grace is stubborn and decides to stay . What happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable object? Coleen Kwan has written a passionate romance between an Alpha male who won't let himself be hurt again and a vulnerable woman who wants security and stability. Grace and Jack complete each other and their chemistry is off the charts. Can they overcome their painful past to find happiness together? I was drawn into their romance and wasn't able to put the book down. These characters are filled with so much emotion and passion. I wanted them to find each other. This is the first book I've read by Coleen Kwan but it won't be the last. She has a wonderful writing style. Don't miss Baiting the Boss! I received a copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 23, 2013
Another winner from Entangled Indulgence this month. Grace has been sent to find her boss's long lost grandson who ran off to a mostly deserted island after a tragic falling out with the family. But now the family business needs him back and Grace won't give up until she convinces him to at least give it a shot.
Jack has demons in his past. When they erupted into an argument with his grandfather he left and swore never to return. But Grace has ways of making him see things differently and after spending some time with her on his island, he thinks that maybe returning wouldn't be so bad after all - as long as he gets to return with her.
A very touching romance with some fantastic and real characters. Jack's haunted side comes out when needed, but stays away enough to keep him from being too dark and brooding. While Grace seems to be full of light and happiness they make for a very interesting and explosive couple. Jack's family is a great secondary character to help push and pull at the couple the whole time, leaving you wondering at times if they are really going to get their happily ever after or not.
Jack has demons in his past. When they erupted into an argument with his grandfather he left and swore never to return. But Grace has ways of making him see things differently and after spending some time with her on his island, he thinks that maybe returning wouldn't be so bad after all - as long as he gets to return with her.
A very touching romance with some fantastic and real characters. Jack's haunted side comes out when needed, but stays away enough to keep him from being too dark and brooding. While Grace seems to be full of light and happiness they make for a very interesting and explosive couple. Jack's family is a great secondary character to help push and pull at the couple the whole time, leaving you wondering at times if they are really going to get their happily ever after or not.
October 22, 2013
Grace Owens has worked for the Macintyre Corporation for the past three years and as harbored a crush on her ex-boss Jack Macintyre. Jack cut off all ties from his family and the business after tragedy struck. Now the Macintyre's have given Grace an ultimatum...Make Jack come back or move on. The down side Jack has no intention of coming back to Sydney, to his family.
Coleen Kwan has a way of making you like even the worst of characters. She puts just enough warmth to each and every character to make the reader want to get to know them and understand them. The flow of the story and the writing made it so easy to keep reading and not put it down. One obstacle after another was believable and understanding in the reactions of each character. There were no over reaching or wtf moments that made you question the story line. I would even enjoy for there to be more to the story....after the ending to see what happens next.
Coleen Kwan has a way of making you like even the worst of characters. She puts just enough warmth to each and every character to make the reader want to get to know them and understand them. The flow of the story and the writing made it so easy to keep reading and not put it down. One obstacle after another was believable and understanding in the reactions of each character. There were no over reaching or wtf moments that made you question the story line. I would even enjoy for there to be more to the story....after the ending to see what happens next.
October 13, 2013
Jack Macintyre was made was made a widow by tragic accident that he blames himself for. After this tragedy, Jack had a falling out with Lachlan, his grandfather. He quit the family business, cut all ties, and moved from Sydney to Filemu Island. Now, 3 years later, Lachlan wants his grandson back. He sends Jack's former assistant, Grace Owens, to bring him back to Sydney.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and had it been longer, it would have been a 5-star read. The chemistry between the characters was amazing. The steamy scenes between Jack and Grace were sizzling! My favorite scene was at Atea Falls. I also felt sorry for Lachlan because even though he's gruff and a bully, he truly loves his grandson. I don't believe he knows any other way to be but he's not too old to change. I love the writing style of Coleen Kwan. This is my first book by this author and I'm very excited to read more.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and had it been longer, it would have been a 5-star read. The chemistry between the characters was amazing. The steamy scenes between Jack and Grace were sizzling! My favorite scene was at Atea Falls. I also felt sorry for Lachlan because even though he's gruff and a bully, he truly loves his grandson. I don't believe he knows any other way to be but he's not too old to change. I love the writing style of Coleen Kwan. This is my first book by this author and I'm very excited to read more.
July 23, 2016
I so enjoy the Baiting the Boss by Coleen Kwan.
The story is about Grace Owen a loyal employee of Macintyre Corporation. She has been sent by the head of company to bring back his grandson and her secret crush.
Jack had left three years ago after his wife death and difficult time he had with his grandfather
Grace travels the island where Jack has been living for the last year. She will need to convince him to come home. This not an easy task. Especially since Jack is happy where he is.
I love the way Coleen Kwan wrote the story. I love the interaction between both Grace and Jack. I liked watching the story of the their relationship unfold. I love how Grace and Jack have moments from the past times together that is brought to the present. Moments they shared at one time that seemed to be nothing but in the end meant more. The story really told a wonderful romance.
I so enjoyed it reading. It so hard to put this book down.
The story is about Grace Owen a loyal employee of Macintyre Corporation. She has been sent by the head of company to bring back his grandson and her secret crush.
Jack had left three years ago after his wife death and difficult time he had with his grandfather
Grace travels the island where Jack has been living for the last year. She will need to convince him to come home. This not an easy task. Especially since Jack is happy where he is.
I love the way Coleen Kwan wrote the story. I love the interaction between both Grace and Jack. I liked watching the story of the their relationship unfold. I love how Grace and Jack have moments from the past times together that is brought to the present. Moments they shared at one time that seemed to be nothing but in the end meant more. The story really told a wonderful romance.
I so enjoyed it reading. It so hard to put this book down.
November 2, 2013
Another super cute read from Coleen Kwan! I always know when I pick up an Indulgence book, it will be a good read - and Baiting the Boss was no exception to that rule.
Baiting the Boss was somewhat different from what I was expecting after reading the synopsis, but I got into the story just the same. I loved the island and the characters Jack's friends there! The one thing I wish would've been expanded more is the history between Jack and Grace - readers get little tidbits, but I felt like a lot of details were not actually stated.
The romance between Grace and Jack is perfect - slow building and adorable! I always can count on Coleen Kwan for that! Anyone wanting a quick, cute read will want to pick this one up.
Baiting the Boss was somewhat different from what I was expecting after reading the synopsis, but I got into the story just the same. I loved the island and the characters Jack's friends there! The one thing I wish would've been expanded more is the history between Jack and Grace - readers get little tidbits, but I felt like a lot of details were not actually stated.
The romance between Grace and Jack is perfect - slow building and adorable! I always can count on Coleen Kwan for that! Anyone wanting a quick, cute read will want to pick this one up.
November 25, 2013
Grace Owens always harbored a secret crush for her old boss and when she is asked to bring him back, after leaving three years ago, she becomes a woman on a mission. What she finds is a surf bum in lieu of her boss and it puts her a little off her game.
Jack MacIntyre walked away, blaming his family and circumstances for a tragedy he felt deep in his heart. Seeing Grace in a whole new light though is unexpected, their tempers flare as well as an undeniable attraction but Jack is not willing to give his heart and Grace is quickly losing hers.
Wonderful story, I thought this was an unexpected plot line that I have not read before. I liked that Grace was frustrated with Jack, his reasoning make sense but he also had put a lot of weight into the blame game. a fun read.
Jack MacIntyre walked away, blaming his family and circumstances for a tragedy he felt deep in his heart. Seeing Grace in a whole new light though is unexpected, their tempers flare as well as an undeniable attraction but Jack is not willing to give his heart and Grace is quickly losing hers.
Wonderful story, I thought this was an unexpected plot line that I have not read before. I liked that Grace was frustrated with Jack, his reasoning make sense but he also had put a lot of weight into the blame game. a fun read.
December 9, 2013
Grace and Jack are undeniably attracted with each other but Jack was not ready for a relationship yet because of his past experiences, he just wants fling. Grace likes Jack long time ago but she is the type of girl that wants serious relationship.
I'm intrigued with Cameron, at first the author described him as bad boy but on the middle of the story,he was a changed man and really wants Jack to become the successor of their family business.
It's a well written story but I don't like the ending, it looks like it was a force ending. Author should at least add one chapter to satisfy the readers.
If you are hopelessly romantic I strongly recommend this book.
you can check my other review
HERE
I'm intrigued with Cameron, at first the author described him as bad boy but on the middle of the story,he was a changed man and really wants Jack to become the successor of their family business.
It's a well written story but I don't like the ending, it looks like it was a force ending. Author should at least add one chapter to satisfy the readers.
If you are hopelessly romantic I strongly recommend this book.
you can check my other review
HERE
October 14, 2013
ARC provided by Publisher
This is a thoroughly charming, endearing and captivating romance.
The interactions between Grace and Jack felt natural and worked so well at bringing the two together. Their time on the island was romantic in a trial and tribulations kind of way. Lots of banter which i always find enjoyable and the sexy times very swoony.
Definitely a great read the only complaint i have was the mixture of both British and American English. Using words like arse yet using z's instead of s's and or's instead of our's.
Overall i give this 4 out of 5
This is a thoroughly charming, endearing and captivating romance.
The interactions between Grace and Jack felt natural and worked so well at bringing the two together. Their time on the island was romantic in a trial and tribulations kind of way. Lots of banter which i always find enjoyable and the sexy times very swoony.
Definitely a great read the only complaint i have was the mixture of both British and American English. Using words like arse yet using z's instead of s's and or's instead of our's.
Overall i give this 4 out of 5
October 17, 2013
3.5 Stars
I thought this was a good read, the romantic angst was enough to tug at your heart strings. The plot wasn't super original, and it's not an Island read, though they are on an island in the beginning. I admit, the office stuff isn't that interesting, but the steamy scenes are fantastic! Grace and Jack have a smoking hot chemistry. Overall, the book has some ups and downs, but I really enjoyed the relationship between Jack and Grace. It's a one sitting read that you can't go wrong with!
I thought this was a good read, the romantic angst was enough to tug at your heart strings. The plot wasn't super original, and it's not an Island read, though they are on an island in the beginning. I admit, the office stuff isn't that interesting, but the steamy scenes are fantastic! Grace and Jack have a smoking hot chemistry. Overall, the book has some ups and downs, but I really enjoyed the relationship between Jack and Grace. It's a one sitting read that you can't go wrong with!
October 26, 2013
3.5 stars rounding up to 4 stars
Baiting the Boss was an enjoyable read.
Grace and Jack are likeable even with their flaws.
I would have liked an epilogue as the story felt a little rushed towards the end but Coleen Kwan does leave the reader with a happy heart.
I recommend it to anyone looking for a love affair that runs a slow burn with a happy ending, sweet and hot :)
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Baiting the Boss was an enjoyable read.
Grace and Jack are likeable even with their flaws.
I would have liked an epilogue as the story felt a little rushed towards the end but Coleen Kwan does leave the reader with a happy heart.
I recommend it to anyone looking for a love affair that runs a slow burn with a happy ending, sweet and hot :)
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2013
Really enjoyed reading it. Would have love it more if there was an epilogue!!!
October 20, 2013
Wonderful, quick read! I could not put it down! Great, strong characters that hold your attention and make you feel for them.
November 3, 2013
very cute, enojoyed the book. It was a short story and it was a fun read.
June 30, 2018
3.75 stars
October 17, 2013
**ARC Provided by Netgalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for an honest review**
Grace has had a crush in Jack since she started her job three years ago. They even went out on friday lunches after he smelled her soup one day.
However not long after his wife died in a car crash and he left the family company, sold his shares and left Australia altogether.
Grace has been sent by his grandfather to bring him back home.
Jack was raised by his grandfather after his parents died when he was nine. When his wife died, he re-evaluated his life after an argument with his grandfather and sold everything going traveling around europe.
For the long year he has been living on an island not far from Hawaii. Grace proves to be both stubborn and a temptation and he is fist slightly hostile to her before finding he cant keep his hands off her. She tells him about her past, something she normally does not talk about.
When he sends her back on the boat without him he feels odd and ends up bring the boat back and going with her.
The reunion with his grandfather does not go well and he turns up at her flat wanting a place to stay. The first two nights he sleeps in her flat mates bed alone. The next as her flat mate comes back early he sleeps in her bed, but they both have erotic dreams. He wakes up with a breast in his hand and they do the dirty before going back sleep.
They share a kiss in the office which is seen by some of her colleagues and she then avoids him and he sleeps at a hotel. She has been given yet another special project she doesn't want to do and tells her boss she is not happy.
At a ball she has had to help plan she tells her boss she is not happy again and tells him she has started to find another job. He fires her.
Jack sees her unhappy and gets info from her then tears after his grandfather and they have a better talk than they ever have.
Jack is due back to the island the next day but goes looking for Grace and finds her at her old haunt. He takes her to a building opposite her flat and up to the penthouse. Her dream home. He has bought it for her and tells her he loves her and that he wants to marry her.
Is a sweet story, but things happen on the fast track. Although the emotions are good, it failed to connect with me and i found it a little meh. It lacked something to pull me in and feel real.
However it is a good read.
Grace has had a crush in Jack since she started her job three years ago. They even went out on friday lunches after he smelled her soup one day.
However not long after his wife died in a car crash and he left the family company, sold his shares and left Australia altogether.
Grace has been sent by his grandfather to bring him back home.
Jack was raised by his grandfather after his parents died when he was nine. When his wife died, he re-evaluated his life after an argument with his grandfather and sold everything going traveling around europe.
For the long year he has been living on an island not far from Hawaii. Grace proves to be both stubborn and a temptation and he is fist slightly hostile to her before finding he cant keep his hands off her. She tells him about her past, something she normally does not talk about.
When he sends her back on the boat without him he feels odd and ends up bring the boat back and going with her.
The reunion with his grandfather does not go well and he turns up at her flat wanting a place to stay. The first two nights he sleeps in her flat mates bed alone. The next as her flat mate comes back early he sleeps in her bed, but they both have erotic dreams. He wakes up with a breast in his hand and they do the dirty before going back sleep.
They share a kiss in the office which is seen by some of her colleagues and she then avoids him and he sleeps at a hotel. She has been given yet another special project she doesn't want to do and tells her boss she is not happy.
At a ball she has had to help plan she tells her boss she is not happy again and tells him she has started to find another job. He fires her.
Jack sees her unhappy and gets info from her then tears after his grandfather and they have a better talk than they ever have.
Jack is due back to the island the next day but goes looking for Grace and finds her at her old haunt. He takes her to a building opposite her flat and up to the penthouse. Her dream home. He has bought it for her and tells her he loves her and that he wants to marry her.
Is a sweet story, but things happen on the fast track. Although the emotions are good, it failed to connect with me and i found it a little meh. It lacked something to pull me in and feel real.
However it is a good read.
October 12, 2013
This review also appear on my blog All The Bookish Love
Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
When I picked up this book, I thought I was about to embark on an island adventure. But I was sorely disappointed. Sure it does feature an island, but only for part of it.
Grace Owens is Lachlan Macintyre’s,( CEO of Macintyre Industries) Special Project Coordinator, which is basically just a glorified title for “Shit no-one else wants to do.” She’s sent to haul his grandson’s ass back to civilization. Said grandson, also known as Jack Macintyre, run off after the death of his wife three years ago. He has some beef with his grandfather and doesn’t want to go back. Grace, always on top of her job, (though I don’t know why she works her ass off for an idiot like Lachlan if he doesn’t offer her any other opportunities) keeps on persuading until Jack’s resolve is broken and he decides at the last moment that he needs to go back home.
This book really had the potential to impress me, but it didn’t. I didn’t like any of the characters. Jack ran away from his problems (understandable, but dude, you have responsibilities back home, grieve there,) got pissed at his grandfather who gave him the only advice he ever knew. Refused to step up and do what he was born to do, though in the end he did kind of. Grace irritated me into the deepest depths of my soul. Seriously, woman? You spend years being a lackey and still won’t get another job because you want to buy an apartment that is way too expensive? Okay, she also came right, but it took her forever. Lachlan… I can think of worse words than idiot, but hey, I’m watching my language.
On a positive note, the love that unfolded was kind of sweet, the love scenes were hot and the sleepy-dreamy love scene was amazingly written. In fact this book isn’t bad, it just didn’t impress me all that much.
Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
When I picked up this book, I thought I was about to embark on an island adventure. But I was sorely disappointed. Sure it does feature an island, but only for part of it.
Grace Owens is Lachlan Macintyre’s,( CEO of Macintyre Industries) Special Project Coordinator, which is basically just a glorified title for “Shit no-one else wants to do.” She’s sent to haul his grandson’s ass back to civilization. Said grandson, also known as Jack Macintyre, run off after the death of his wife three years ago. He has some beef with his grandfather and doesn’t want to go back. Grace, always on top of her job, (though I don’t know why she works her ass off for an idiot like Lachlan if he doesn’t offer her any other opportunities) keeps on persuading until Jack’s resolve is broken and he decides at the last moment that he needs to go back home.
This book really had the potential to impress me, but it didn’t. I didn’t like any of the characters. Jack ran away from his problems (understandable, but dude, you have responsibilities back home, grieve there,) got pissed at his grandfather who gave him the only advice he ever knew. Refused to step up and do what he was born to do, though in the end he did kind of. Grace irritated me into the deepest depths of my soul. Seriously, woman? You spend years being a lackey and still won’t get another job because you want to buy an apartment that is way too expensive? Okay, she also came right, but it took her forever. Lachlan… I can think of worse words than idiot, but hey, I’m watching my language.
On a positive note, the love that unfolded was kind of sweet, the love scenes were hot and the sleepy-dreamy love scene was amazingly written. In fact this book isn’t bad, it just didn’t impress me all that much.
December 21, 2014
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Baiting the Boss started off wonderfully, but then it turned into a bore. Jack took off from his family's construction business three years ago to get away from it all. He's set himself up on a remote island and had no plans on returning to the city. Grace works for Jack's grandfather and has been tasked with bringing him back or she won't get a transfer to the position she really wants. Graces uses every trick in her arsenal to guilt Jack into coming back, but the man is adamant about staying put. But after a few days on the island, she realizes that CEO life probably isn't for him, and maybe her job isn't what she wants out of life either.
I really enjoyed the first half of Baiting the Boss. Life on the island was interesting and that's where Jack and Grace's chemistry is first ignited. She's already pegged him for being spoiled, lazy, and selfish, but once she sees what he's doing on the island, she has a change of heart. Jack is doing more hands on projects than he was ever able to do when he worked under his grandfather. He's helping the islanders fix up all of their buildings and has plans for the neighboring islands as well. But he does come back with Grace just to meet with his grandfather and things go downhill from there. It's super boring and I couldn't care about all of their meetings and Grace's career woes. I missed the magic of the tropics!
In the end, Baiting the Boss let me down. it started off really well, then just dropped off. I really like Grace and Jack together, and loved that both of them wanted to get more meaning and fulfillment out of their work. But the sudden focus on being in the office about halfway through lost me. It got stuffy and I didn't like that.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Baiting the Boss started off wonderfully, but then it turned into a bore. Jack took off from his family's construction business three years ago to get away from it all. He's set himself up on a remote island and had no plans on returning to the city. Grace works for Jack's grandfather and has been tasked with bringing him back or she won't get a transfer to the position she really wants. Graces uses every trick in her arsenal to guilt Jack into coming back, but the man is adamant about staying put. But after a few days on the island, she realizes that CEO life probably isn't for him, and maybe her job isn't what she wants out of life either.
I really enjoyed the first half of Baiting the Boss. Life on the island was interesting and that's where Jack and Grace's chemistry is first ignited. She's already pegged him for being spoiled, lazy, and selfish, but once she sees what he's doing on the island, she has a change of heart. Jack is doing more hands on projects than he was ever able to do when he worked under his grandfather. He's helping the islanders fix up all of their buildings and has plans for the neighboring islands as well. But he does come back with Grace just to meet with his grandfather and things go downhill from there. It's super boring and I couldn't care about all of their meetings and Grace's career woes. I missed the magic of the tropics!
In the end, Baiting the Boss let me down. it started off really well, then just dropped off. I really like Grace and Jack together, and loved that both of them wanted to get more meaning and fulfillment out of their work. But the sudden focus on being in the office about halfway through lost me. It got stuffy and I didn't like that.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
September 29, 2013
I was offered this book in exchange for an honest review. I'm actually really impressed with this book. I've read Coleen Kwan's Real Men series (from Entangled's Bliss line) and thought they were light reads but good. I think Baiting the Boss is better than both of those books.
The book starts out with Grace Owens, who's a hard working, devoted employee of Macintyre Corp, on a boat to a small island in the Pacific. She's headed there in an attempt to find and bring home her boss' grandson. Her careers been at a standstill and her boss has promised to look into a transfer if she's able to bring him home. As hard as her task is, she's somewhat excited about it because she's always had a crush on him.
Jack Macintyre, grandson of Lachlan Macintyre. He left Macintyre Corp and his whole family behind after suffering a personal loss. It's been 3 years since he had any contact with anyone back in Sydney. He remembers Grace as they had struck up a friendship during the short time they worked together, but has no intention of going back with her. He's pigheaded, and she's stubborn. They begin a test of wills when she tries to convince him to come home, and he tries to convince her to leave the island.
I have to say I loved Grace. I loved the fact that she wasn't the cookie cutter weepy heroine. Instead of balling her eyes out when her feelings were hurt she raised her chin and moved on. This book made for a perfect Sunday morning read for me and I stayed in bed until I finished it! One thing I will mention is that Coleen is Australian so there are some words/phrases that some might not understand. Since I've read some of her previous works I knew that a head of time. Luckily it's not so often that it interrupts the enjoyment of it.
The book starts out with Grace Owens, who's a hard working, devoted employee of Macintyre Corp, on a boat to a small island in the Pacific. She's headed there in an attempt to find and bring home her boss' grandson. Her careers been at a standstill and her boss has promised to look into a transfer if she's able to bring him home. As hard as her task is, she's somewhat excited about it because she's always had a crush on him.
Jack Macintyre, grandson of Lachlan Macintyre. He left Macintyre Corp and his whole family behind after suffering a personal loss. It's been 3 years since he had any contact with anyone back in Sydney. He remembers Grace as they had struck up a friendship during the short time they worked together, but has no intention of going back with her. He's pigheaded, and she's stubborn. They begin a test of wills when she tries to convince him to come home, and he tries to convince her to leave the island.
I have to say I loved Grace. I loved the fact that she wasn't the cookie cutter weepy heroine. Instead of balling her eyes out when her feelings were hurt she raised her chin and moved on. This book made for a perfect Sunday morning read for me and I stayed in bed until I finished it! One thing I will mention is that Coleen is Australian so there are some words/phrases that some might not understand. Since I've read some of her previous works I knew that a head of time. Luckily it's not so often that it interrupts the enjoyment of it.
August 5, 2016
I got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review...
I first have to say it is great to get back to reading! I am finally getting all my reviews done for my blog and I have such a LONG waiting list! I will finish it!!!
This book really wasn't for me. It was good, but I felt like it was dragging on. The plot is very good but I feel even though it was a short book it could have been even shorter and more enjoyable.
Jack was in line to take over the family business. The only problem was that his grandfather worked him to the bone. He had to give up everything that he loved to please his grandfather. That even includes a dead wife. He finally had enough. So after a long fight he left for a deserted island.
Grace Owens was a push over. She got the job at Macintyre, right out of college. She fell in love with her boss Jack and he just left. How could he desert is family like that. Since Grace was a gofer and promised a better position she had to go find him. Grace never been on a boat or a plane so this would be her first vacation. She doesn't like bugs or heat, but she had a job to do. After finding Jack she knew she was in trouble because he was still stunning.
Jack was pig headed and refused to leave the island. Grace will have lots of fights with him and calling him spoiled. Little did she know that Jack was doing good for the island. She decided to stay a week or two just to convince Jack to come back. the lust between these two is just booming. He knew it was wrong, but he had to do it.
Grace gets him to go back to the company, but will it last? Will Jack over stay his welcome with Grace and get her in trouble. Sometimes doing the greater good isn't what it seems....
I first have to say it is great to get back to reading! I am finally getting all my reviews done for my blog and I have such a LONG waiting list! I will finish it!!!
This book really wasn't for me. It was good, but I felt like it was dragging on. The plot is very good but I feel even though it was a short book it could have been even shorter and more enjoyable.
Jack was in line to take over the family business. The only problem was that his grandfather worked him to the bone. He had to give up everything that he loved to please his grandfather. That even includes a dead wife. He finally had enough. So after a long fight he left for a deserted island.
Grace Owens was a push over. She got the job at Macintyre, right out of college. She fell in love with her boss Jack and he just left. How could he desert is family like that. Since Grace was a gofer and promised a better position she had to go find him. Grace never been on a boat or a plane so this would be her first vacation. She doesn't like bugs or heat, but she had a job to do. After finding Jack she knew she was in trouble because he was still stunning.
Jack was pig headed and refused to leave the island. Grace will have lots of fights with him and calling him spoiled. Little did she know that Jack was doing good for the island. She decided to stay a week or two just to convince Jack to come back. the lust between these two is just booming. He knew it was wrong, but he had to do it.
Grace gets him to go back to the company, but will it last? Will Jack over stay his welcome with Grace and get her in trouble. Sometimes doing the greater good isn't what it seems....
October 5, 2013
Baiting the Boss by Coleen Kwan
C, inferno, no kink, contemp, 184 pages
Company owner and CEO Lachlan sends his assistant Grace to find his grandson, and heir-apparent, Jack and bring him back to Sydney and the family business. Grace finally tracks him down on a tropical island and all sorts of romance ensues.
I really liked the story. A lot. It was a fun and easy and comfortable read, lacking any sort of external conflict (which I appreciate). Like I said, I liked it a lot. Until we get to the 96% mark. So what would have been an outstanding story (a B+ rating) quickly became only okay.
I do want to also note that while the sex scenes were steamy and hot, earning an inferno rating, there were only a few. I would have like to had more in the story.
I wouldn't hesitate to read more from Coleen Kwan, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one anyone who loves low-conflict romances with a touch of the tropics. I just wish it had a different ending.
C, inferno, no kink, contemp, 184 pages
Company owner and CEO Lachlan sends his assistant Grace to find his grandson, and heir-apparent, Jack and bring him back to Sydney and the family business. Grace finally tracks him down on a tropical island and all sorts of romance ensues.
I really liked the story. A lot. It was a fun and easy and comfortable read, lacking any sort of external conflict (which I appreciate). Like I said, I liked it a lot. Until we get to the 96% mark. So what would have been an outstanding story (a B+ rating) quickly became only okay.
I do want to also note that while the sex scenes were steamy and hot, earning an inferno rating, there were only a few. I would have like to had more in the story.
I wouldn't hesitate to read more from Coleen Kwan, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one anyone who loves low-conflict romances with a touch of the tropics. I just wish it had a different ending.
October 6, 2013
The story start with the heroine, Grace Owens is a spunk and independent woman works as a 'Special Project Coordinator'(or personal lackey) for the CEO of Macintyre Ind. She was task to return his heir who happens to be her crush since she start working in the company. The problem is the so called heir Jack Macintyre is nursing his wounds after the death of his wife 3 years ago in remote tropical island. The spark between H and h that lain dormant years ago erupted in the . Of course the exotic location and friendly islander keep pushing them together. Jack however, is stubborn mule who will not bow to his grandfather decree and wants to remain in the island no matter how tempting the messenger is. The next plot takes place in the Australia with both Jack and his grandfather continuing their bickering with Grace in between. I love that the heroine keep her head high even though the hero is still in denial of his feelings and keeps rejecting her. She also learn from the hero how to let loose and to stand up for herself. The end could be a bit longer. I just feel the hero got it off too easy for my taste. Overall it is a sweet and fulfilled reading for morning coffee to last throughout the day.
ARC received from netgalley for honest review.
ARC received from netgalley for honest review.
October 14, 2013
*ARC from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Grace Owens, underappreciated gofer, has been sent to retrieve her boss’s grandson, Jack McIntyre, from a tropical island paradise where he has bolted. She thinks he’s a sulking playboy, he thinks she has been drinking from the company cooler much too long. Throw in surf, sand and tropical conditions (read: skimpy clothing) – both Grace and Jack realizes there is more to the other than meets the eye. One week later, they are doing the horizontal mambo. They exchange tropical paradise for the Australian concrete jungle and the heat between them is still there. He calls it lust, she knows it’s love.
Now what? Throw in a demanding grandfather/boss, snoopy relatives and co-workers and still they do manage to muddle through. Though I wince at the millionaire falls for deserving “commoner” (yeah, like this happens all the time in real life), both Jack and Grace are well developed and relatable (ok to an extent). The cast of characters around them? Not so much. Grandfather is kind of too one-dimensional as a tyrant/despot but not really character. Two rich, snobby aunts thrown in…though I am intrigued by Cameron. Good, fast paced read with love scenes thrown in at the appropriate places.
Grace Owens, underappreciated gofer, has been sent to retrieve her boss’s grandson, Jack McIntyre, from a tropical island paradise where he has bolted. She thinks he’s a sulking playboy, he thinks she has been drinking from the company cooler much too long. Throw in surf, sand and tropical conditions (read: skimpy clothing) – both Grace and Jack realizes there is more to the other than meets the eye. One week later, they are doing the horizontal mambo. They exchange tropical paradise for the Australian concrete jungle and the heat between them is still there. He calls it lust, she knows it’s love.
Now what? Throw in a demanding grandfather/boss, snoopy relatives and co-workers and still they do manage to muddle through. Though I wince at the millionaire falls for deserving “commoner” (yeah, like this happens all the time in real life), both Jack and Grace are well developed and relatable (ok to an extent). The cast of characters around them? Not so much. Grandfather is kind of too one-dimensional as a tyrant/despot but not really character. Two rich, snobby aunts thrown in…though I am intrigued by Cameron. Good, fast paced read with love scenes thrown in at the appropriate places.
October 16, 2013
This was the first book I have read by Colleen Kwan and I found it to be enjoyable. The story went along at a nice quick pace and I finished it in less then one day. Kwan's writing style was easy to enjoy and I found the book to be well written.
Grace Owens is responsible for bringing Jack Macintyre, her former boss and crush, back to Sydney and the family. Jack, due to old ghosts, has no desire to return to his grandfather Lachlan and the family company. Along the way chemistry between Grace and Jack intensifies leaving both uncertain about their feelings.
I find the story to have a very real feel to it. Nothing seemed forced and the realization of their feelings occurred naturally. My only problem was that once Jack became one with his feelings, his actions seemed to progress too rapidly for me. It gave the story a fairytale type ending and it took away from the realism for me.
Overall, I would recommend the book as it is a stand alone and you get your HEA. I did miss an Epiloge which would have given me the little extra that I love after the HEA.
Thanks to Indulgence Books for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review
Grace Owens is responsible for bringing Jack Macintyre, her former boss and crush, back to Sydney and the family. Jack, due to old ghosts, has no desire to return to his grandfather Lachlan and the family company. Along the way chemistry between Grace and Jack intensifies leaving both uncertain about their feelings.
I find the story to have a very real feel to it. Nothing seemed forced and the realization of their feelings occurred naturally. My only problem was that once Jack became one with his feelings, his actions seemed to progress too rapidly for me. It gave the story a fairytale type ending and it took away from the realism for me.
Overall, I would recommend the book as it is a stand alone and you get your HEA. I did miss an Epiloge which would have given me the little extra that I love after the HEA.
Thanks to Indulgence Books for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review
October 6, 2013
Having read Coleen's 'Real Men' series from Entangled's Bliss line, I grabbed the chance when given the opportunity to read this as an ARC. She's proven she can give us men to fall in love with and ladies who give them a run for their money, but with the addition of steamy action, well that can only be an added bonus.
With a buff, sexy, stubborn Aussie hero who has brains as well as brawn, a sweet-natured, determined lady with a quiet feistiness about her, heat, passion, a beautiful setting and a good storyline, Baiting the Boss was largely a great read. Jack and Grace were so endearing, realistic and easy to love and their chemistry was perfect.
I became completely invested in their journey and struggled to put it down. It flowed well and was so easy to read, but I can't help but feel a little let down by the ending. I just felt that such wonderful characters deserved more than how it was played out and how quickly it was wrapped up.
Nevertheless, it's still a fun, sexy, easy-reading romance and I look forward to more from Coleen in the future.
November 25, 2013
ARC received from NetGalley for honest review
This was a great sweet short read for a Sunday afternoon.
Grace has had a crush in Jack since she started her job three years ago. They even went out on Friday lunches after he smelled her soup one day.However not long after his wife died in a car crash and he left the family company, sold his shares and left Australia altogether. Now a few years later Grace has been sent by his grandfather to bring him back home.
Grace and Jack had great chemistry in the book and plot moved along at a steady pace. The only thing I felt was that the ending let the book down a little it just seems that is was rushed, Grace and Jack's relationship had been building slowly throughout the book and it just seemed to all come together to quickly at the end and was a little predictable.
Overall a great quick sweet, sexy, fun read which I did enjoy reading.
This was a great sweet short read for a Sunday afternoon.
Grace has had a crush in Jack since she started her job three years ago. They even went out on Friday lunches after he smelled her soup one day.However not long after his wife died in a car crash and he left the family company, sold his shares and left Australia altogether. Now a few years later Grace has been sent by his grandfather to bring him back home.
Grace and Jack had great chemistry in the book and plot moved along at a steady pace. The only thing I felt was that the ending let the book down a little it just seems that is was rushed, Grace and Jack's relationship had been building slowly throughout the book and it just seemed to all come together to quickly at the end and was a little predictable.
Overall a great quick sweet, sexy, fun read which I did enjoy reading.
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