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Secrets of Eden #2
A Beauty Uncovered: A Billionaire Boss Workplace Romance
A beastly boss is tamed in this Secrets of Eden book from Andrea Laurence…
CEO Brody Eden is a loner. The brooding billionaire has secrets that he refuses to unveil to anyone…until he meets his new assistant, Samantha Davis. She's temptation personified, and she's sitting right outside his door.
Samantha's never met a man as guarded�and gorgeous�as Brody. She doesn't want to fall for her boss, but there's something about Brody…. Beneath his gruff manner, Sam senses tenderness�and an intense passion waiting to be unleashed. And she'll make it her mission to enter his lair…and his bed.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
28 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Laurence
383 books211 followersAndrea Laurence has been a lover of reading and writing stories since she learned to read at a young age. She always dreamed of seeing her work in print and is thrilled to finally be able to share her special blend of sensuality and dry, sarcastic humor with the world. A dedicated West Coast girl transplanted into the Deep South, she's working on her own "happily ever after" with her new husband and a golden retriever puppy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 25, 2018
There was no fucking grovelling.
He told her she sleeps with her bosses to advance her career and she’s a lousy lay before firing her and does not even utter the word sorry but apparently is forgiven because he overcame his anxiety and walked to her.
Actually that’s all good personal progress and everything but how is this grovelling?
For all we know from the state of his office
1) he was unable to replace her as a secretary
And
2) he clearly was unable to replace her in his bed with someone who wouldn’t be repulsed by him even if he paid them. Took him 30 years to get heroine.
So where is my fucking apology and grovel on his knees on broken glass?
#Grovellingwhorehere
He told her she sleeps with her bosses to advance her career and she’s a lousy lay before firing her and does not even utter the word sorry but apparently is forgiven because he overcame his anxiety and walked to her.
Actually that’s all good personal progress and everything but how is this grovelling?
For all we know from the state of his office
1) he was unable to replace her as a secretary
And
2) he clearly was unable to replace her in his bed with someone who wouldn’t be repulsed by him even if he paid them. Took him 30 years to get heroine.
So where is my fucking apology and grovel on his knees on broken glass?
#Grovellingwhorehere
October 23, 2016
Wow. I read this on a whim, Amazon recommended the book lol. And I thought it to be adorable. It was a modern day version of Beauty and the Beast with an office setting. Great find.
September 21, 2013
Excellent book, a real beauty and the beast story. I really liked both Sam and Brody. Sam takes the job as Brody's assistant while her godmother is on vacation. Because of terrible scarring Brody never goes out in public. Brody doesn't expect the beautiful Sam to be oblivious to his scars. He is very attracted to her but still cautious. Sam is just as attracted to him but wary of getting involved as she just left a bad relationship with her former boss. As they get to know each other their feelings deepen, but will Sam be able to get the beast out of his cave?
Sam was great. She takes the job as temporary assistant to Brody because it's the only job she can find right now. She only gets it because she is filling in for her godmother while she is on vacation. She got let go from her last job after a bad relationship with her boss there. She is told that Brody can be prickly but as long as she does her job it will be fine. She is also told that he has terrible scarring and the best thing she can do is not react to it. Brody doesn't even come out of his office the first few days and Sam loses her temper with him. When he finally makes an appearance she doesn't react to the scars, she is too fascinated by his eyes. Now she wants nothing more than to really get to know this fascinating man. I loved the way that she didn't put up with his rudeness at the beginning and stood her ground when he confronted her. After that everything she did went further toward breaking down the walls that Brody has erected around himself. The more they were together the more she saw a caring and sensitive man. I loved the way that she drew him further and further out of his shell. Her love for him grew stronger every day. But with that love came the realization that being with him meant living in the shadows and she had a hard time with that. Her wish to help him created a huge misunderstanding that tore them apart.
Brody is incredibly smart and has become extremely wealthy. As a child he was horribly scarred when his father threw battery acid on him. He had it better when he was with his foster family, but his scarring has changed his life. He avoids being around people, not wanting to deal with their reactions. His few relationships with women have soured him on the idea of love because they have all been more interested in his money than in him. He is drawn to Sam right away. He can't believe someone so beautiful is not affected by his scars. I loved his sweet and romantic side. When she visited his home she got to see his more relaxed side as he played with his dog, and his vulnerability as he tried to make a special dinner for her. The secret he shared with her later made him all the more a sympathetic character to me. I loved seeing him open up even more with her when they went on their trip. It made their breakup scene even more heartbreaking as each said terrible things to the other. I loved the scene when Agnes came back and had a long talk with him. What Brody did after that was really among the best of romantic gestures by a hero.
Sam was great. She takes the job as temporary assistant to Brody because it's the only job she can find right now. She only gets it because she is filling in for her godmother while she is on vacation. She got let go from her last job after a bad relationship with her boss there. She is told that Brody can be prickly but as long as she does her job it will be fine. She is also told that he has terrible scarring and the best thing she can do is not react to it. Brody doesn't even come out of his office the first few days and Sam loses her temper with him. When he finally makes an appearance she doesn't react to the scars, she is too fascinated by his eyes. Now she wants nothing more than to really get to know this fascinating man. I loved the way that she didn't put up with his rudeness at the beginning and stood her ground when he confronted her. After that everything she did went further toward breaking down the walls that Brody has erected around himself. The more they were together the more she saw a caring and sensitive man. I loved the way that she drew him further and further out of his shell. Her love for him grew stronger every day. But with that love came the realization that being with him meant living in the shadows and she had a hard time with that. Her wish to help him created a huge misunderstanding that tore them apart.
Brody is incredibly smart and has become extremely wealthy. As a child he was horribly scarred when his father threw battery acid on him. He had it better when he was with his foster family, but his scarring has changed his life. He avoids being around people, not wanting to deal with their reactions. His few relationships with women have soured him on the idea of love because they have all been more interested in his money than in him. He is drawn to Sam right away. He can't believe someone so beautiful is not affected by his scars. I loved his sweet and romantic side. When she visited his home she got to see his more relaxed side as he played with his dog, and his vulnerability as he tried to make a special dinner for her. The secret he shared with her later made him all the more a sympathetic character to me. I loved seeing him open up even more with her when they went on their trip. It made their breakup scene even more heartbreaking as each said terrible things to the other. I loved the scene when Agnes came back and had a long talk with him. What Brody did after that was really among the best of romantic gestures by a hero.
July 20, 2013
This is the second in the Secrets of Eden series by this author. This is Brody's story, the scarred reclusive computer whiz member of the family. Samantha is his temporary secretary, put in place by her God-mother while she's on holiday.
The relationship that develops between Sam and Brody looks like being a little difficult because both of them have prickles. Him because of his scars and Sam has made a bad choice in having a relationship with her former boss. Seems like the girls in this series have pretty poor judgement with men both making the same mistake in the type of guy, but that's the only real quibble I have with the stories.
Brody is adorable. He's sweet and romantic and the very opposite of sleazy. *happy sigh*. Sam, apart from aforesaid icky taste in men, is a bright and positive heroine, perfect for a man who spends a lot of time in the shadows.
The background mystery that links this series is furthered along and it will be interesting to see how it plays out in the future books.
This was a Netgalley arc
The relationship that develops between Sam and Brody looks like being a little difficult because both of them have prickles. Him because of his scars and Sam has made a bad choice in having a relationship with her former boss. Seems like the girls in this series have pretty poor judgement with men both making the same mistake in the type of guy, but that's the only real quibble I have with the stories.
Brody is adorable. He's sweet and romantic and the very opposite of sleazy. *happy sigh*. Sam, apart from aforesaid icky taste in men, is a bright and positive heroine, perfect for a man who spends a lot of time in the shadows.
The background mystery that links this series is furthered along and it will be interesting to see how it plays out in the future books.
This was a Netgalley arc
August 25, 2016
Quick light read, the time this couple got together is so short it is unbelievable.
Reread and remember I didn't like this one much :/ I really don't like the h, she seems very shallow, superficial and ditsy, with all the focus on her clothes, doing nails and jewelry. Nothing wrong in being a fashionista usually but the way she does it just grinds on my nerves (all those pink *eye roll*) and we do not really see anything besides that aspect of her.
I'm around a third way through and remember I'd read this one already, not liking it, so gonna just DNF directly =v=
Reread and remember I didn't like this one much :/ I really don't like the h, she seems very shallow, superficial and ditsy, with all the focus on her clothes, doing nails and jewelry. Nothing wrong in being a fashionista usually but the way she does it just grinds on my nerves (all those pink *eye roll*) and we do not really see anything besides that aspect of her.
I'm around a third way through and remember I'd read this one already, not liking it, so gonna just DNF directly =v=
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2015
Bonita, romántica, original y entretenida, pero le faltó pasión.
May 13, 2015
A ver. El problema de esta novela (para mí) radica en Samantha. Punto. Me cayó tan maaaal que no puedo ni decir que haya disfrutado de la historia, por muy divino que fuera Brody. Porque él lo es. Solo que, como suele suceder en ocasiones, un personaje que es bueno, empequeñece por el/la compañer@ que le ponen. Y es lo que sucede aquí. Ni siquiera Brody es capaz de salvar la historia él solito, y todo gracias a esta heroína. Samantha Samaritana Davis.
No es el hecho de que si esta mujer es una promiscua o no (aunque para promiscuas ya tengo el Salvame. Tv), es la actitud y acciones. Es lo de "guapa a rabiar, pero guapa, guapa". Es todo. Es lo de no pasar ni 1 o 2 de estar con alguien, con el que tenías una relación y supuestamente sentías algo, jurar que no caerá en la misma piedra, y ¡zaaas! La samaritana ve al héroe, entra en celo y se recupera de su última decepción amorsa. ¿En serio? ¡Con que rapidez se recupera de sus rupturas!
Yo no vi amor por ningún lado. A mí me dio la sensación de tipa con tremendo calentón por estrenarse a un virgen y ya. Y, encima, se cree que está haciendo la buena obra del día, porque, oh, Dios, Brody, no puedes seguir siendo virgen. ¡Que horror! Me sacrificaré... Que triste que alguien se tome tu primera vez, como se toma Samantcha la de Brody. Me parece terrible, penoso y lamentable. Además, de darme coraje. Porque repito: él era demasiado lindo.
Más cosas. Me hace mucha gracia como SIEMPRE las autoras (muchas de ellas) tienen que hacer un lavado de imagen, para que los lectores pasemos por alto ciertos detalles. Y me hace gracia porque con eso están demostrando claramente que ellas mismas saben que algo falla, y es su intentona de desviar la atención. En este caso, Andrea Laurence hace esa intentona con Samantha Mamá Gallina.
En fin, no hay para más.
Conclusión: Brody es lo único positivo de la historia. Pero Samantha Samaritana Davis me sacó tanta ulcera, que ni siquiera puedo decir que rescato el libro por él héroe. Realmente, Brody se merecía a una compañera a su altura, y esta mujer no lo fue. Lástima.
No es el hecho de que si esta mujer es una promiscua o no (aunque para promiscuas ya tengo el Salvame. Tv), es la actitud y acciones. Es lo de "guapa a rabiar, pero guapa, guapa". Es todo. Es lo de no pasar ni 1 o 2 de estar con alguien, con el que tenías una relación y supuestamente sentías algo, jurar que no caerá en la misma piedra, y ¡zaaas! La samaritana ve al héroe, entra en celo y se recupera de su última decepción amorsa. ¿En serio? ¡Con que rapidez se recupera de sus rupturas!
Yo no vi amor por ningún lado. A mí me dio la sensación de tipa con tremendo calentón por estrenarse a un virgen y ya. Y, encima, se cree que está haciendo la buena obra del día, porque, oh, Dios, Brody, no puedes seguir siendo virgen. ¡Que horror! Me sacrificaré... Que triste que alguien se tome tu primera vez, como se toma Samantcha la de Brody. Me parece terrible, penoso y lamentable. Además, de darme coraje. Porque repito: él era demasiado lindo.
Más cosas. Me hace mucha gracia como SIEMPRE las autoras (muchas de ellas) tienen que hacer un lavado de imagen, para que los lectores pasemos por alto ciertos detalles. Y me hace gracia porque con eso están demostrando claramente que ellas mismas saben que algo falla, y es su intentona de desviar la atención. En este caso, Andrea Laurence hace esa intentona con Samantha Mamá Gallina.
En fin, no hay para más.
Conclusión: Brody es lo único positivo de la historia. Pero Samantha Samaritana Davis me sacó tanta ulcera, que ni siquiera puedo decir que rescato el libro por él héroe. Realmente, Brody se merecía a una compañera a su altura, y esta mujer no lo fue. Lástima.
December 7, 2016
Nothing spectacular here but I love Beauty and the Beast so I'm going to keep on reading these cheesy books. If it were any other story, I probably would have hated it, but I didn't :-)
July 6, 2019
Para ser una novela de Harlequin, me ha gustado mucho!
Y me gustó el detalle de que el protagonista fuera virgen... digo, por lo regular es la mujer :D
Y me gustó el detalle de que el protagonista fuera virgen... digo, por lo regular es la mujer :D
August 19, 2013
Synopsis
A beastly boss is tamed in this Secrets of Eden book from Andrea Laurence...
CEO Brody Eden is a loner. The brooding billionaire has secrets that he refuses to unveil to anyone...until he meets his new assistant, Samantha Davis. She's temptation personified, and she's sitting right outside his door.
Samantha's never met a man as guarded--and gorgeous--as Brody. She doesn't want to fall for her boss, but there's something about Brody.... Beneath his gruff manner, Sam senses tenderness--and an intense passion waiting to be unleashed. And she'll make it her mission to enter his lair...and his bed.
My Thoughts
*4.5 Stars*
I love Beauty and the Beast theme romance novels and Andrea Laurence reminded me why this is still one of my favorite romance tropes. I love reading about a vulnerable, scarred, and damaged hero not looking for love, but finding it anyway with a beauty who sees past the scars with acceptance and loving him for who he is. Also, a little side note even though this is the second book of Laurence's Secrets of Eden series, it can be a standalone read. I haven't read book one yet and A Beauty Uncovered still made sense.
Brody is the owner of Eden Software Systems. He's incredibly smart and rich, but a social recluse due to the scars marring his face and body that was caused by his abusive father. He soon became a foster child and was fortunately taken in by Ken and Molly Edens when he was eleven. Never did he expect that his new temporary assistant, Sam, would be the one to make him experience so many emotions foreign to him and most of all fall in love.
Having lost her mother at the age of seven, Sam quickly stepped up to be the lady of the house and for that her father had always called her "Daddy's Little Fixer." If someone had a problem, Sam guaranteed it would be fixed. So, when she starts her temporary position as Brody's assistant she naturally wants to help him, but she's mostly intrigued by him. The scars doesn't faze or repulse her. Rather, she wants to dig beneath his tough exterior. She knows she shouldn't get involved with her boss due to a bad past experience, but after one kiss is shared in the office between the two she is more determined to bring out the beast from behind the shadows.
Laurence really has a great way of making the reader feel as if they're a part of the story. Through the detailed descriptions and vivid images, I could feel and visualize the settings as if I were there with Sam and Brody. I loved watching their romance blossom with time and the way Sam gradually broke down Brody's tough shield. Their romance was filled with plenty of sparks; it was sweet, passionate and sensual to top it off. Although Brody's past was a heartbreaking one this story wasn't overshadowed with angst; romance was still the core of this story.
This story evoked many emotions from me while reading and even had a few cry-worthy moments. For example, that breakup scene just tore my heart to shreds: the hurtful words exchanged between Sam and Brody, the palpable pain (good thing I didn't have makeup on while reading). What also surprised me while reading was the bit of mystery entwined with the story. Not only did the romance got me turning the pages quickly, but the mystery surrounding Tommy Wilder. I was on the edge of my seat trying to uncover Brody's darkest secret. Now, I cannot wait for the next story of Andrea Laurence's Secrets of Eden series especially with the way A Beauty Uncovered ended!
Overall, a great story written by Andrea Laurence and one I'd highly recommend. Make sure to pick this one up. A Beauty Uncovered features an enigmatic and sexy beastly hero, a vibrant beauty who breaches his fortress walls and coaxes him out of the darkness and a romantic and passionate storyline that will surely satisfy readers. Beautifully written and poignant, A Beauty Uncovered is a love story that will captivate readers from the beginning to the very end.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
A beastly boss is tamed in this Secrets of Eden book from Andrea Laurence...
CEO Brody Eden is a loner. The brooding billionaire has secrets that he refuses to unveil to anyone...until he meets his new assistant, Samantha Davis. She's temptation personified, and she's sitting right outside his door.
Samantha's never met a man as guarded--and gorgeous--as Brody. She doesn't want to fall for her boss, but there's something about Brody.... Beneath his gruff manner, Sam senses tenderness--and an intense passion waiting to be unleashed. And she'll make it her mission to enter his lair...and his bed.
My Thoughts
*4.5 Stars*
I love Beauty and the Beast theme romance novels and Andrea Laurence reminded me why this is still one of my favorite romance tropes. I love reading about a vulnerable, scarred, and damaged hero not looking for love, but finding it anyway with a beauty who sees past the scars with acceptance and loving him for who he is. Also, a little side note even though this is the second book of Laurence's Secrets of Eden series, it can be a standalone read. I haven't read book one yet and A Beauty Uncovered still made sense.
Brody is the owner of Eden Software Systems. He's incredibly smart and rich, but a social recluse due to the scars marring his face and body that was caused by his abusive father. He soon became a foster child and was fortunately taken in by Ken and Molly Edens when he was eleven. Never did he expect that his new temporary assistant, Sam, would be the one to make him experience so many emotions foreign to him and most of all fall in love.
Having lost her mother at the age of seven, Sam quickly stepped up to be the lady of the house and for that her father had always called her "Daddy's Little Fixer." If someone had a problem, Sam guaranteed it would be fixed. So, when she starts her temporary position as Brody's assistant she naturally wants to help him, but she's mostly intrigued by him. The scars doesn't faze or repulse her. Rather, she wants to dig beneath his tough exterior. She knows she shouldn't get involved with her boss due to a bad past experience, but after one kiss is shared in the office between the two she is more determined to bring out the beast from behind the shadows.
Laurence really has a great way of making the reader feel as if they're a part of the story. Through the detailed descriptions and vivid images, I could feel and visualize the settings as if I were there with Sam and Brody. I loved watching their romance blossom with time and the way Sam gradually broke down Brody's tough shield. Their romance was filled with plenty of sparks; it was sweet, passionate and sensual to top it off. Although Brody's past was a heartbreaking one this story wasn't overshadowed with angst; romance was still the core of this story.
This story evoked many emotions from me while reading and even had a few cry-worthy moments. For example, that breakup scene just tore my heart to shreds: the hurtful words exchanged between Sam and Brody, the palpable pain (good thing I didn't have makeup on while reading). What also surprised me while reading was the bit of mystery entwined with the story. Not only did the romance got me turning the pages quickly, but the mystery surrounding Tommy Wilder. I was on the edge of my seat trying to uncover Brody's darkest secret. Now, I cannot wait for the next story of Andrea Laurence's Secrets of Eden series especially with the way A Beauty Uncovered ended!
Overall, a great story written by Andrea Laurence and one I'd highly recommend. Make sure to pick this one up. A Beauty Uncovered features an enigmatic and sexy beastly hero, a vibrant beauty who breaches his fortress walls and coaxes him out of the darkness and a romantic and passionate storyline that will surely satisfy readers. Beautifully written and poignant, A Beauty Uncovered is a love story that will captivate readers from the beginning to the very end.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
September 9, 2013
I’ve read some pretty hard-going books lately and sometimes I’m in the mood afterwards when only some easy-reading chicklit will suffice. ‘A Beauty Uncovered’ therefore seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Reclusive, prickly, millionaire boss with about a million idiosyncrasies? Check.
His new perky blonde PA, with a lot of confidence and a penchant for anything pink and sparkly? Check.
Pretty instant dynamic chemistry between them? Check.
Romance, humour and misunderstandings galore? Check!
I really enjoy romance novels but sometimes the formula gets a bit tired and overdone and the male characters just seem too perfect and good to be true- I feel like I’ve read the story before, if I’m honest. That’s why I was so pleased to read about a man with real flaws- Brody- who is rude, prickly and NOT the perfect hunk for a change. He is insecure and something of a prisoner to the scars that adorn his face and body, after being seriously abused as a child by his own father and cannot bear even going out in public. Brody may be rich but he has zero confidence in himself and the only women he has gotten to know in the past have been attracted to him for his bank balance and not for him as a person.
Factored into that heartbreaking story, we meet Samantha. Bubbly and outgoing, not to mention beautiful, Sam has her own issues as well as a reputation as being a bit of a ‘meddler’ and wanting to fix everything. Is that the reason why she is so determined to get close to Brody, or could it possibly be that she is genuinely attracted to him...?
This was a much better read than I had anticipated and I loved how it was a modern-day fairytale with parallels to Beauty and the Beast. The characters were really well-developed and I enjoyed getting to know them. The writer hasn’t made them at all superficial and they were portrayed with their own flaws and quirks that made them engaging and fun to read about. The attraction between them was instant but still slow-building within the context of the story and it was nice not to read a ‘rushed’ romance which can often be the case. The sex scenes were well drawn and not cringey and overdone on metaphors and too much description, which can sometimes happen in a lot of romance novels. There was some poignancy and humour throughout too, as well as the continuation of a murder-mystery element that began in this book’s predecessor that I found intriguing.
I’ve not actually read any of Andrea Laurence’s other books before and with this being the second in a series I was a bit concerned that there may be a back-story already established that I would find somewhat confusing. There is something of a back-story there, but enough history is quickly provided here so that I was brought up to speed. It has also made me want to go back and read book one to get to know Brody’s other brothers and sister a bit better and pick up more on the thread that runs through this book. This book also ended on something of a cliff-hanger with regards to the murder-mystery element, so it is safe to say that I will be reading book three when it comes out as well! It was certainly worth reading this book to get to experience a really good new (to me) romance author and thanks to both Netgalley and the publishers for the review opportunity. I would recommend A Beauty Uncovered to anyone who enjoys well-written contemporary romance.
Reclusive, prickly, millionaire boss with about a million idiosyncrasies? Check.
His new perky blonde PA, with a lot of confidence and a penchant for anything pink and sparkly? Check.
Pretty instant dynamic chemistry between them? Check.
Romance, humour and misunderstandings galore? Check!
I really enjoy romance novels but sometimes the formula gets a bit tired and overdone and the male characters just seem too perfect and good to be true- I feel like I’ve read the story before, if I’m honest. That’s why I was so pleased to read about a man with real flaws- Brody- who is rude, prickly and NOT the perfect hunk for a change. He is insecure and something of a prisoner to the scars that adorn his face and body, after being seriously abused as a child by his own father and cannot bear even going out in public. Brody may be rich but he has zero confidence in himself and the only women he has gotten to know in the past have been attracted to him for his bank balance and not for him as a person.
Factored into that heartbreaking story, we meet Samantha. Bubbly and outgoing, not to mention beautiful, Sam has her own issues as well as a reputation as being a bit of a ‘meddler’ and wanting to fix everything. Is that the reason why she is so determined to get close to Brody, or could it possibly be that she is genuinely attracted to him...?
This was a much better read than I had anticipated and I loved how it was a modern-day fairytale with parallels to Beauty and the Beast. The characters were really well-developed and I enjoyed getting to know them. The writer hasn’t made them at all superficial and they were portrayed with their own flaws and quirks that made them engaging and fun to read about. The attraction between them was instant but still slow-building within the context of the story and it was nice not to read a ‘rushed’ romance which can often be the case. The sex scenes were well drawn and not cringey and overdone on metaphors and too much description, which can sometimes happen in a lot of romance novels. There was some poignancy and humour throughout too, as well as the continuation of a murder-mystery element that began in this book’s predecessor that I found intriguing.
I’ve not actually read any of Andrea Laurence’s other books before and with this being the second in a series I was a bit concerned that there may be a back-story already established that I would find somewhat confusing. There is something of a back-story there, but enough history is quickly provided here so that I was brought up to speed. It has also made me want to go back and read book one to get to know Brody’s other brothers and sister a bit better and pick up more on the thread that runs through this book. This book also ended on something of a cliff-hanger with regards to the murder-mystery element, so it is safe to say that I will be reading book three when it comes out as well! It was certainly worth reading this book to get to experience a really good new (to me) romance author and thanks to both Netgalley and the publishers for the review opportunity. I would recommend A Beauty Uncovered to anyone who enjoys well-written contemporary romance.
September 21, 2013
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start by saying this is the first book I have ever read by Andrea Laurence, but it will not be my last!!! When I requested this book I just thought it sounded interesting and the cover was sexy but clean. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a new take on the classic Beauty and the Beast (which is my FAVORITE). It was adaptation I did not see coming and I LOVED IT! The plot of the story is basically a reclusive billionaire has an assistant who is going on vacation. He is very secretive and particular about who is hired. The assistant brings her goddaughter in to work for him. She is s "Fixer" he is not wanting to be "fixed" any more. Will she see the real him when he meets her or will she see what the outside world wants to gawk at?
Honestly this is one of my favorite adaptations. I loved it from start to finish. They characters are heartfelt and real. When I researched the author I found this book the second in a series. I highly recommend this book and I personally cannot wait to read the others.
Let me start by saying this is the first book I have ever read by Andrea Laurence, but it will not be my last!!! When I requested this book I just thought it sounded interesting and the cover was sexy but clean. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a new take on the classic Beauty and the Beast (which is my FAVORITE). It was adaptation I did not see coming and I LOVED IT! The plot of the story is basically a reclusive billionaire has an assistant who is going on vacation. He is very secretive and particular about who is hired. The assistant brings her goddaughter in to work for him. She is s "Fixer" he is not wanting to be "fixed" any more. Will she see the real him when he meets her or will she see what the outside world wants to gawk at?
Honestly this is one of my favorite adaptations. I loved it from start to finish. They characters are heartfelt and real. When I researched the author I found this book the second in a series. I highly recommend this book and I personally cannot wait to read the others.
October 1, 2013
I first saw this on Netgalley and I knew I had to read it I loved the cover and since Netgalley denied my request I went out and bought it myself (so take that Netgalley!) Brody, my heart hurt for him at times, but then other times I wanted to punch him, and Sam the woman is so pure of heart it's not funny. "no woman, sparkly or otherwise, had ever deliberately touched his scars like that. With every fiber of his being, he wanted her to do it again." Sam and Brody kind of get off on a rocky start by that I mean Brody confuses the poor girl, "oh," Sam said, not sure if she was relieved or disappoint. "I thought you were asking me to dinner or something." But Brody knows how to quickly clear the air, takes a long a** time doing it but he does, "here?" Brody frowned and then nodded when he understood his mistake. "I'm not asking you to work over the weekend, Sam. I'm asking you to have dinner with me tomorrow night. A real date, like you suggested." Once Brody and Sam get to know each other more we learn that Brody is a passionate man, "I told you I was taking you out for dinner, and you wear a dress that makes me want to take you home and strip you naked right now."
August 27, 2013
A Beauty Uncovered is the first book I've read by Andrea Laurence, and it was quite an enjoyable read. Brody was not the typical hero. Even though he was a very rich computer genius, he was very insecure and did not trust easily because of the scars on his face. He was also a 30-something year old virgin. So, he was a great character who was unlike most of the heroes in Harlequin romances. I also liked the character of Samantha. Although she made a bad mistake with a boss in the past, she was there for Brody to try to bring him out into the world. She was very determined and stubborn.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series, and I hope that we get to read a little more about Brody and Sam in the next couple's story.
*I received my copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series, and I hope that we get to read a little more about Brody and Sam in the next couple's story.
*I received my copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2016
I'll be honest - I picked up this book when I found out it featured two of my very favorite tropes ever - Boss/Secretary (don't judge...) and Virgin Hero. For added measure the author also crams in a bit of Beauty and the Beast. Unfortunately it's all too busy for the lean and mean Desire line (which clocks in at less than 200 pages). The characters don't tap dance around their attraction so much as jump right into bed - and given that the heroine just got fired from her last job because she had an affair with her boss? Yeah...no. Just no.
But what pushed me over the edge was the series baggage which was straight up I Know What You Did Last Summer and frankly felt very off and very bizarre. None of it worked for me.
But what pushed me over the edge was the series baggage which was straight up I Know What You Did Last Summer and frankly felt very off and very bizarre. None of it worked for me.
October 27, 2013
Wonderful.
Samantha Davis plans on taking a different approach on her new job. Do not sleep with the boss! Assured by her godmother that, Brody Eden is a grumpy, scarred man, she feels that she is safe. Until she final meets the beast, and finds he might be scarred, but he more than turns her on.
Brody has many secrets. Having his secretary desert him, and leave the sparkly and sexy Sam behind, makes him want to bring her in to his world. But a long time of hiding, and protecting himself and his family, is a difficult habit to break. Wanting to be loved for himself, he pushes Sam away, fearing he can never have love.
Samantha Davis plans on taking a different approach on her new job. Do not sleep with the boss! Assured by her godmother that, Brody Eden is a grumpy, scarred man, she feels that she is safe. Until she final meets the beast, and finds he might be scarred, but he more than turns her on.
Brody has many secrets. Having his secretary desert him, and leave the sparkly and sexy Sam behind, makes him want to bring her in to his world. But a long time of hiding, and protecting himself and his family, is a difficult habit to break. Wanting to be loved for himself, he pushes Sam away, fearing he can never have love.
January 18, 2015
A modern day Beauty and the Beast. I loved this book. It was fun, fast and sweet. Not to mention a little sexy! Sam is a stubborn woman. Though the story makes her seem a little slutty, she's definitely perfect for Brody. He's a loner, and unversed in the ways of seduction or women. But it works for both of them. This was a really good read if you're looking for a HEA! I'm wondering if any of his brothers, or even him and Sam will have another book out. The cliffhanging ending was done pretty well!
September 14, 2013
I really liked this book & fell just a little bit in love with Brody myself. It was variation of a beauty and the beast kind of story. The role reversal as well of the hero being the virgin in this story and the heroine being a little bit more experienced was definitely a different twist but I liked it. Brody's proposal at the end was very sweet too. I'm looking forward to the next in this series. I never read letters from the author, but Andrea's was one very worth checking out. Gives a little perspective to the story imo.
September 28, 2013
I enthusiastically recommend this new twist on the old classic, Beauty and the Beast. Andrea Laurence is a superb writer, her skill lies in creating believable characters. I felt like the proverbial fly on the wall, privy to the inner workings of the lead couple's journey to love. I traveled along on a beautiful ride; from the fantastically drawn settings, to the stellar dialogue, and oh, the story, the story.
I love a good fairy tale, and this one is a great one. I must read more from this author!
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
I love a good fairy tale, and this one is a great one. I must read more from this author!
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2017
3.75 Stars
This is another good book in the series 'Secrets of Eden.' The stars of this show are CEO Brody Eden who is a loner. The brooding billionaire has secrets that he refuses to unveil to anyone …until he meets his new assistant, Samantha Davis.
Sam senses tenderness and passion under his gruff exterior. She intends to make it her mission in life to unleash all that passion that he hides...with her...in his bed!
Another nice addition to the 'Secret of Eden' series. I highly recommend this book as well as the series.
This is another good book in the series 'Secrets of Eden.' The stars of this show are CEO Brody Eden who is a loner. The brooding billionaire has secrets that he refuses to unveil to anyone …until he meets his new assistant, Samantha Davis.
Sam senses tenderness and passion under his gruff exterior. She intends to make it her mission in life to unleash all that passion that he hides...with her...in his bed!
Another nice addition to the 'Secret of Eden' series. I highly recommend this book as well as the series.
July 30, 2013
As expected from Andrea Laurence.
I've been waiting for Brody's story and I loved it!
Well, there were parts where I really wish she wrote it a bit differently, with more details, and a bit longer. Because I came to a point where, I want more of Brody!
Gosh! Certainly a must have for me!
So who's next, Andrea? Xander perhaps? :D
More review to come. *hopefully
ARC provided by Harlequin via Net Galley.
I've been waiting for Brody's story and I loved it!
Well, there were parts where I really wish she wrote it a bit differently, with more details, and a bit longer. Because I came to a point where, I want more of Brody!
Gosh! Certainly a must have for me!
So who's next, Andrea? Xander perhaps? :D
More review to come. *hopefully
ARC provided by Harlequin via Net Galley.
October 20, 2013
First let me say I do not normally read the desire series. A friend recommended this one, and wow. The hero melted my heart...he was broken, alone, and valiant all at the same time. And the heroine sparkled- figuratively and literally. Can t wait for the next in this series.
May 12, 2020
What the flying fuck. She wants to sleep with him... because he is oh my god hot.. and closed.. again, what the fuck And he practically says she is a slut. And fires her. Oh by god. Why do I do this to myself. 2 stars just because I attempted to finish it.
October 3, 2013
Rating 3.5 stars
Second book in this series, and the hero is a scarred virgin. I enjoyed the book, heroine was pretty gutsy.
Second book in this series, and the hero is a scarred virgin. I enjoyed the book, heroine was pretty gutsy.
April 23, 2020
Hlavní příběh (nacpala ho do tří týdnů) má jisté trhliny a autorka občas neudrží myšlenku.
Hrdinka je trochu blbka, která se chová nelogicky.
Pokud si hrdina sám uklízí kancelář a koupelnu, měl by být schopný týden vyhazovat krabice od jídla, aby mu tam nezaváněly.
Konec srpnového příběhu je otevřený. S informací, že další díly budou příští rok v září a říjnu. To nesvědčí o nějaké promyšlené redaktorské práci.
Navíc třetí díl v září vyšel, čtvrtý už ne.
s. 186 Brody se ke Kenovi a Molly Edenovým dostal, když mu bylo jedenáct let, jen pár měsíců poté, co na něj zaútočil jeho otec
Podle s. 270 mu bylo 14 let.
s. 294 květ rudé růže
Která na s. 286 byla temně fialová.
s. 164 devětapadesátileté Agnes
s. 227 Bylo jí kolem padesátky (...) vdaná byla téměř po stejnou dobu
s. 266 hodil jejich zavazadla na pier
s. 167 Vypadla [Vypadala]
s. 202 nabral si na talíř grilované kuře potírané citronem a bramborová kaše
s. 217 případ.“ zasmál se
s. 301 urči1tě
špatné dělení slov - s. 186, 210, 258, 293, 296
[České vydání, Muž pod maskou]
Hrdinka je trochu blbka, která se chová nelogicky.
Pokud si hrdina sám uklízí kancelář a koupelnu, měl by být schopný týden vyhazovat krabice od jídla, aby mu tam nezaváněly.
Konec srpnového příběhu je otevřený. S informací, že další díly budou příští rok v září a říjnu. To nesvědčí o nějaké promyšlené redaktorské práci.
Navíc třetí díl v září vyšel, čtvrtý už ne.
s. 186 Brody se ke Kenovi a Molly Edenovým dostal, když mu bylo jedenáct let, jen pár měsíců poté, co na něj zaútočil jeho otec
Podle s. 270 mu bylo 14 let.
s. 294 květ rudé růže
Která na s. 286 byla temně fialová.
s. 164 devětapadesátileté Agnes
s. 227 Bylo jí kolem padesátky (...) vdaná byla téměř po stejnou dobu
s. 266 hodil jejich zavazadla na pier
s. 167 Vypadla [Vypadala]
s. 202 nabral si na talíř grilované kuře potírané citronem a bramborová kaše
s. 217 případ.“ zasmál se
s. 301 urči1tě
špatné dělení slov - s. 186, 210, 258, 293, 296
[České vydání, Muž pod maskou]
September 6, 2018
This is only my second book by Andrea Laurence and I really enjoyed this one. The hero is absolutely to die for, a true “beast” but with a very tragic and emotional backstory that made me really like him. The author did a masterful job showing his scars, both physical and emotional, and yet making him so likeable and sympathetic.
The heroine is the hero’s complete opposite, but she’s not so cheerful it’s annoying, or a kind-hearted do-gooder without some emotional depth to her. Instead, she’s capable, very confident, and yet also very emotional, which plays against the hero’s stiffness of manner. The two of them are really made for each other.
The pacing was a little uneven in the middle—romance progressed a bit quickly at points, and yet also dragged a little at other points. The ending was a little rushed, but it was also really, really sweet and very symbolic to their relationship.
Overall, an enjoyable romance with great characters.
The heroine is the hero’s complete opposite, but she’s not so cheerful it’s annoying, or a kind-hearted do-gooder without some emotional depth to her. Instead, she’s capable, very confident, and yet also very emotional, which plays against the hero’s stiffness of manner. The two of them are really made for each other.
The pacing was a little uneven in the middle—romance progressed a bit quickly at points, and yet also dragged a little at other points. The ending was a little rushed, but it was also really, really sweet and very symbolic to their relationship.
Overall, an enjoyable romance with great characters.
November 25, 2016
**My thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press, for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
This is a retelling of beauty and the beast for the modern world, but this beauty has a little more sass and bravery than the story books.
The beast is also more insecure and isolated than the beast.
It's just a cheesy as you would expect from a Harlequin romance and we get a bust up with a big romantic finish in order that we get our HEA.
This is a retelling of beauty and the beast for the modern world, but this beauty has a little more sass and bravery than the story books.
The beast is also more insecure and isolated than the beast.
It's just a cheesy as you would expect from a Harlequin romance and we get a bust up with a big romantic finish in order that we get our HEA.
December 22, 2019
This is a Harlequin Desire and the cover really gets to the point! This was a really good book and I like how Andrea writes as you really want to continue to turn the page. Andrea hit the ball right up the right field line for a in the park home run!
April 18, 2022
Real!y liked this
I still love fairytales, especially Beauty and the Beast. This is a grown up B & B story. It's not perfect, but it is very good. I loved the characters.
I still love fairytales, especially Beauty and the Beast. This is a grown up B & B story. It's not perfect, but it is very good. I loved the characters.
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