What do you think?
Rate this book
Spade Hotel #5
The One
USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann brings an angsty, tortured hero, billionaire romance to the sizzling conclusion of the Spade Hotel Series.
They call me insensitive.
They call me uncaring.
I’m a raging alphahole ninety-nine percent of the time.
But no one really knows Rhett Cole at all.
Memories are my currency.
Regret is my drink of choice.
I’m not the guy who didn’t care.
I’m the guy who only cared about her.
Lainey Taylor.
My reason.
My why.
My one.
The woman I’ve been in love with since my freshman year of high school.
A love so strong that I had her name inked on my body when I was eighteen.
She was my fairy tale.
My happily ever after.
Until I ruined … everything.
Until she looked me in the face and told me she never wanted to see me again.
That’s the day my life lost all meaning.
Fifteen years later, she’s back, and my dead heart begins to beat again.
Every story has a villain.
I’ve held that title for too long.
When the truth is revealed …
Will I win back the one?
They call me insensitive.
They call me uncaring.
I’m a raging alphahole ninety-nine percent of the time.
But no one really knows Rhett Cole at all.
Memories are my currency.
Regret is my drink of choice.
I’m not the guy who didn’t care.
I’m the guy who only cared about her.
Lainey Taylor.
My reason.
My why.
My one.
The woman I’ve been in love with since my freshman year of high school.
A love so strong that I had her name inked on my body when I was eighteen.
She was my fairy tale.
My happily ever after.
Until I ruined … everything.
Until she looked me in the face and told me she never wanted to see me again.
That’s the day my life lost all meaning.
Fifteen years later, she’s back, and my dead heart begins to beat again.
Every story has a villain.
I’ve held that title for too long.
When the truth is revealed …
Will I win back the one?
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2024
1918 people are currently reading
3307 people want to read
About the author
Marni Mann
61 books7,078 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their Yellow Lab. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling, or devouring fabulous books.
Visit her at:
WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/marnimann/
NEWSLETTER: http://marnismann.com/e-mail-signup/
Visit her at:
WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/marnimann/
NEWSLETTER: http://marnismann.com/e-mail-signup/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 662 reviews
Read
January 4, 2025Available now!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://geni.us/TheOneSH
Audio Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor & Connor Crais
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3y28jp2
💋 Alpha Hero – Tortured, but oh-so-dreamy
💋 Second Chance – Because true love always deserves another shot
💋 Grumpy/Sunshine – Opposites attract in the sweetest way
💋 Billionaire – Luxe & charm
💋 Anti-Hero – Irresistible
💋 Tortured Lead – A past that pulls at your heartstrings
💋 First Love – The finest
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://geni.us/TheOneSH
Audio Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor & Connor Crais
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3y28jp2
💋 Alpha Hero – Tortured, but oh-so-dreamy
💋 Second Chance – Because true love always deserves another shot
💋 Grumpy/Sunshine – Opposites attract in the sweetest way
💋 Billionaire – Luxe & charm
💋 Anti-Hero – Irresistible
💋 Tortured Lead – A past that pulls at your heartstrings
💋 First Love – The finest
December 27, 2024
The One by Marni Mann
3/5 stars
Another book that is so incredibly difficult for me to rate. On one hand I really enjoyed it, and on the other hand not so much. The writing style of Marni Mann is still incredible and she definitely knows how to bring a story to life with her words and writing style.
But the story itself did not captivate me as much as I would have wanted.
The story is quite organic. It's a story about young love that transitions into a love you only experience once in a lifetime.
We follow Rhett and Lainey. Who fell in love as teens and loved each other hard and fiercely. Until one crushing event happens that drives them apart for the next 15 years.
We read the story in the past and present. We see them fall in love and the story builds up to that devastating event.
And in the present they tentatively see each other unexpectedly again and after that a very important conversation has to happen. And the story propels itself after conversation into the third and final part of the book.
It's a story that is told very delicately and very slowly. And there is a lot of emphasis on how unconditional their love is. It gets repeated, repeated, repeated and even more repeated. And that's where I lost my connection with the characters. It was too much repetition for me. And the story progresses very slowly, and very tentatively. It's a slow wave and the wave has a constant flow. It doesn't accelerate or slow down at any point in the story. And that made the story in certain parts a bit dull and boring at times.
I wish the author played a little with the wave and made it more exciting. Even when that devastating event happens it was told slowly, calmly and with no punch whatsoever. Don't get me wrong, the event itself has a punch, but it's written without one.
And that was such shame. This story could have been epic and so darn powerful. But the approach for me didn't work.
So I'll rate this story 3 out of 5 stars overall.
3/5 stars
Another book that is so incredibly difficult for me to rate. On one hand I really enjoyed it, and on the other hand not so much. The writing style of Marni Mann is still incredible and she definitely knows how to bring a story to life with her words and writing style.
But the story itself did not captivate me as much as I would have wanted.
The story is quite organic. It's a story about young love that transitions into a love you only experience once in a lifetime.
We follow Rhett and Lainey. Who fell in love as teens and loved each other hard and fiercely. Until one crushing event happens that drives them apart for the next 15 years.
We read the story in the past and present. We see them fall in love and the story builds up to that devastating event.
And in the present they tentatively see each other unexpectedly again and after that a very important conversation has to happen. And the story propels itself after conversation into the third and final part of the book.
It's a story that is told very delicately and very slowly. And there is a lot of emphasis on how unconditional their love is. It gets repeated, repeated, repeated and even more repeated. And that's where I lost my connection with the characters. It was too much repetition for me. And the story progresses very slowly, and very tentatively. It's a slow wave and the wave has a constant flow. It doesn't accelerate or slow down at any point in the story. And that made the story in certain parts a bit dull and boring at times.
I wish the author played a little with the wave and made it more exciting. Even when that devastating event happens it was told slowly, calmly and with no punch whatsoever. Don't get me wrong, the event itself has a punch, but it's written without one.
And that was such shame. This story could have been epic and so darn powerful. But the approach for me didn't work.
So I'll rate this story 3 out of 5 stars overall.
January 2, 2025
This was my first Marni Mann book, and I REALLY enjoyed it. I feel compelled now to go back and read ALL the books in this series plus the other one and am looking forward to the Weston family series. This book was fine to be read as a standalone but left me wanting to know the back stories of the characters I met along this couple's journey. And MAN what a journey it was. This is the final book in the Spade Hotel series and follows Rhett and Lainey. My heart BROKE reading this one yall. The whole book centers on one point in time and how a tragic accident can change the trajectory of your life forever. We get dual POVs and dual timelines. We see Rhett as he is seeing Lainey for the first time in 15 years. She was his EVERYTHING back in the day until tragedy struck. We also see Lainey seeing Rhett for the first time since her world was rocked. I felt like I was reading about a slow moving train wreck wondering WHAT could have happened to make these two who were clearly soul mates just stop communicating. And when I found out (almost halfway through) I was torn up! Reading about how these two clawed their way back to each other. Lainey couldn't fight it anymore and Rhett had never given up. It was so satisfying to watch them finally get to heal together and get to experience everything they had dreamed of.
Lainey has been running for 15 years. She met the love of her life when she was 18. Her life was planned. They were committed. They were going to school together. And then that day happened and everything changed. Lainey has been living in Europe ever since. She doesn't talk about the past. She can't. But then she comes home on a whim and sees Rhett who she hasn't spoken to or seen since that day. And it's like something has woken up inside her. She feels something for the first time in forever. She wants to hear him out but isn't ready. But then she seems him again and he unloads on her. He tells her his side of the story and her whole perspective changes. She realizes that this thing she has been missing her whole life is him. And now that they are here again she doesn't want to waste any more time. BUT she wants to take things slow. Well slow goes out the window when she feels like she is putting on an old pair of skates. Everything just feels right with him. So when he asks her to make a big move with him she finds herself saying yes because she is done living in the past. She has her forever- her future now.
Rhett has been mindlessly working his way through life. He has become the grump that everyone deals with including his family. Work is all he lives for ever since she left him. He met his soul mate when he was 15 and then again when they were 17 and just when he thought all was right with the world it was taken away from him. And now he is seeing her for the first time in 15 years and she says she doesn't want to see him. Nothing has changed. But he isn't ready to give up. He HAS to tell her his side. He is done hiding and waiting. So he finds her again and she listens. She hears his side of what actually happened and how he was trying to protect her and her family. And just like this huge weight has been lifted off of his shoulders. He doesn't expect what happens next which is her stating she wants to see him. She still loves him. She wants to take things slow. Well she is his END GAME so if slow is how she wants to go then that is what he will do. He is going to remind her of everything they had together and how not only has it change on his end but it has grown. Because she is his WHY.
This book was so much about fate and the timing of everything in life. There was so many things that had to line up for these two to get to see each other again and they did. And it was what they both needed. They needed to be able to move past the past but together. This was a wonderful story about healing and how sometimes the scapegoat that we make isn't always the whole story. I would definitely recommend this one if you are craving a second chance with a TON of angst!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Marni for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
Lainey has been running for 15 years. She met the love of her life when she was 18. Her life was planned. They were committed. They were going to school together. And then that day happened and everything changed. Lainey has been living in Europe ever since. She doesn't talk about the past. She can't. But then she comes home on a whim and sees Rhett who she hasn't spoken to or seen since that day. And it's like something has woken up inside her. She feels something for the first time in forever. She wants to hear him out but isn't ready. But then she seems him again and he unloads on her. He tells her his side of the story and her whole perspective changes. She realizes that this thing she has been missing her whole life is him. And now that they are here again she doesn't want to waste any more time. BUT she wants to take things slow. Well slow goes out the window when she feels like she is putting on an old pair of skates. Everything just feels right with him. So when he asks her to make a big move with him she finds herself saying yes because she is done living in the past. She has her forever- her future now.
Rhett has been mindlessly working his way through life. He has become the grump that everyone deals with including his family. Work is all he lives for ever since she left him. He met his soul mate when he was 15 and then again when they were 17 and just when he thought all was right with the world it was taken away from him. And now he is seeing her for the first time in 15 years and she says she doesn't want to see him. Nothing has changed. But he isn't ready to give up. He HAS to tell her his side. He is done hiding and waiting. So he finds her again and she listens. She hears his side of what actually happened and how he was trying to protect her and her family. And just like this huge weight has been lifted off of his shoulders. He doesn't expect what happens next which is her stating she wants to see him. She still loves him. She wants to take things slow. Well she is his END GAME so if slow is how she wants to go then that is what he will do. He is going to remind her of everything they had together and how not only has it change on his end but it has grown. Because she is his WHY.
This book was so much about fate and the timing of everything in life. There was so many things that had to line up for these two to get to see each other again and they did. And it was what they both needed. They needed to be able to move past the past but together. This was a wonderful story about healing and how sometimes the scapegoat that we make isn't always the whole story. I would definitely recommend this one if you are craving a second chance with a TON of angst!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Marni for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
January 6, 2025
I ❤ Rhett ~ don’t tell me hub 😂 review soon
December 16, 2024
If you have read the Spade Hotel series, then you know that Rhett Cole has quite the reputation. He's grumpy and kind of awful to be around. And throughout the series, I always questioned what made him that way? So to say I was excited for Rhett's story is an understatement. And boy does this man have a story to tell that I was not expecting in the best possible way. Please be prepared to be in your feels!
Now I will say, my girl Marni is my resident fairy smut mother. She delivers to spice in the first 10% and we love her for that, but this book is so wildly different is the best possible way. Be prepared for the angst. Be prepared for a dual timeline that goes back and forth. And be prepared to be teleported back to highschool where you will experience falling in love for the first time.
I am such a lover of second chance romance. I love when a man grovels his way back into her good graces but this story isn't that. And I am sure you are like what do you mean. Without giving the reason as to why these two were torn apart, just know that what these two went through at a young age is traumatic and tragic. What Rhett experienced and then had to live with is enough to change a person. In fact I lost count how many chapters I had tears in my eyes because I felt so bad for Rhett. So as a forewarning, if death and grief is a trigger for you please go into this one cautiously. But don't worry, there is a HEA. I would never do that to you!
This story was really powerful. Rhett and Lainey's connection and love is so palpable as you read this book. I was so immersed in this book I couldn't put it down. I felt all of their emotions. I felt as if I was falling in love for the first time again. And when their hearts broke, so did mine. I was brought back to how I felt having my heart broken for the first time. And when they reconnected after 15 years, I felt the hope that Rhett had. And that right there is an amazing story. If you can make me feel those feelings, that's a 5 star read. There is no doubt in my mind that these two are soul mates.
I am so sad that this series had come to an end. The Spade Hotel series is my favorite by Marni, but what a hell of a way to end it. I couldn't imagine a better ending!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Billionaire Romance
- Second Chance Romance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Mutal Pinings for YEARS
- First Love and Soul Mates
- Virgin Heroine
- Boy/Man Obsessed
- Tortured Hero
- Reconnection after Grief
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Marni Mann and Valentine PR for allowing me the pleasure to read The One as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Now I will say, my girl Marni is my resident fairy smut mother. She delivers to spice in the first 10% and we love her for that, but this book is so wildly different is the best possible way. Be prepared for the angst. Be prepared for a dual timeline that goes back and forth. And be prepared to be teleported back to highschool where you will experience falling in love for the first time.
I am such a lover of second chance romance. I love when a man grovels his way back into her good graces but this story isn't that. And I am sure you are like what do you mean. Without giving the reason as to why these two were torn apart, just know that what these two went through at a young age is traumatic and tragic. What Rhett experienced and then had to live with is enough to change a person. In fact I lost count how many chapters I had tears in my eyes because I felt so bad for Rhett. So as a forewarning, if death and grief is a trigger for you please go into this one cautiously. But don't worry, there is a HEA. I would never do that to you!
This story was really powerful. Rhett and Lainey's connection and love is so palpable as you read this book. I was so immersed in this book I couldn't put it down. I felt all of their emotions. I felt as if I was falling in love for the first time again. And when their hearts broke, so did mine. I was brought back to how I felt having my heart broken for the first time. And when they reconnected after 15 years, I felt the hope that Rhett had. And that right there is an amazing story. If you can make me feel those feelings, that's a 5 star read. There is no doubt in my mind that these two are soul mates.
I am so sad that this series had come to an end. The Spade Hotel series is my favorite by Marni, but what a hell of a way to end it. I couldn't imagine a better ending!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Billionaire Romance
- Second Chance Romance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Mutal Pinings for YEARS
- First Love and Soul Mates
- Virgin Heroine
- Boy/Man Obsessed
- Tortured Hero
- Reconnection after Grief
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Marni Mann and Valentine PR for allowing me the pleasure to read The One as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
December 28, 2024
I typically try not to shit all over an author’s work by leaving a negative review without any positive feedback, but after absolutely loving all five installments of the Dalton Family series, I’m frustrated with how much of a letdown the Spade Hotel series was and how it went progressively downhill with each book. I mean, I only rated ONE book higher than 2 stars.
The One was my least favorite of this series and probably the most disappointing, however, because of how much I was looking forward to Rhett’s story. I specifically took issue with the approach the author took leading up to the climax; the time jumps were unbearable and the narrative pacing was often too slow and repetitive, which is an all too common issue with alternating timeframes. In fact, I usually try to avoid anything with a dual timeline because it’s very difficult for any author to do successfully.
Sigh. I’m such a glutton for punishment, though, because I know the Weston Group series will likely include a hockey romance, which I doubt I’ll be able to resist. 🥵❤️🔥
The One was my least favorite of this series and probably the most disappointing, however, because of how much I was looking forward to Rhett’s story. I specifically took issue with the approach the author took leading up to the climax; the time jumps were unbearable and the narrative pacing was often too slow and repetitive, which is an all too common issue with alternating timeframes. In fact, I usually try to avoid anything with a dual timeline because it’s very difficult for any author to do successfully.
Sigh. I’m such a glutton for punishment, though, because I know the Weston Group series will likely include a hockey romance, which I doubt I’ll be able to resist. 🥵❤️🔥
January 12, 2025
5 ⭐️ | 2.5 🌶️ | 5🎧
What to Expect:
- Billionaire Romance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Second Chance Romance
- Boy/Man Obsessed
- Tortured Hero
- Virgin FMC
- First Love
- Soulmate Love
- Coming of Age
- Mutual Pining
- Grief and Tragedy
- Dual Timeline
This story is phenomenal! Rhett Cole's story completely wrecked me. Throughout this series, he has been the grumpy one who never wanted to be around and always seemed troubled. His actions were confusing and unexplained, but he was clearly holding on to something that made it impossible for him to really live his life. Now we know exactly what this poor, tortured man was going through. Rhett and Lainey's journey broke my heart and then put it back together.
Rhett and Lainey were high school sweethearts who planned to stay together forever. They were inseparable until a tragic event changed their lives forever. After fifteen years of no contact, they unexpectedly reunite. Determined to have another chance with the woman who has always had his heart, Rhett is ready to reveal the truth. Using a dual timeline was the perfect way to tell Rhett's story, and it revealed important details about what made Rhett the man he is in the present. He is a heartbroken, protective man who made decisions in the past he felt would protect the one he loves.
I am a huge fan of second-chance romance stories, and this one is beautifully written. This book is more than just a typical love story; it’s a moving journey that connects you to Rhett and Lainey and their feelings. I felt Rhett's grief and deep love for Lainey. I felt so sad for these two and was rooting for them. They were truly meant to be together, and I loved every second of their emotional journey back to each other. The One is a must-read and did not disappoint. Will you cry? All signs point to yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. I can't begin to express how much I enjoyed this audiobook. I started reading this book and then grabbed the audiobook on release day. I am so glad I did. Reading and listening to this book in tandem was an amazing experience. Samantha and Connor are two of my favorite narrators, and their voices worked so well together for Rhett and Lainey's story. Samantha and Connor are the perfect voices for these complex characters, and they brought them to life in the best way. Marni has written an incredibly emotional story, and being able to hear these emotions had a deep impact on me. I thoroughly enjoyed my immersive reading experience.
Thanks to Marni Mann and Valentine PR for the gifted advanced reader copy of The One. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect:
- Billionaire Romance
- Highschool Sweethearts
- Second Chance Romance
- Boy/Man Obsessed
- Tortured Hero
- Virgin FMC
- First Love
- Soulmate Love
- Coming of Age
- Mutual Pining
- Grief and Tragedy
- Dual Timeline
This story is phenomenal! Rhett Cole's story completely wrecked me. Throughout this series, he has been the grumpy one who never wanted to be around and always seemed troubled. His actions were confusing and unexplained, but he was clearly holding on to something that made it impossible for him to really live his life. Now we know exactly what this poor, tortured man was going through. Rhett and Lainey's journey broke my heart and then put it back together.
Rhett and Lainey were high school sweethearts who planned to stay together forever. They were inseparable until a tragic event changed their lives forever. After fifteen years of no contact, they unexpectedly reunite. Determined to have another chance with the woman who has always had his heart, Rhett is ready to reveal the truth. Using a dual timeline was the perfect way to tell Rhett's story, and it revealed important details about what made Rhett the man he is in the present. He is a heartbroken, protective man who made decisions in the past he felt would protect the one he loves.
I am a huge fan of second-chance romance stories, and this one is beautifully written. This book is more than just a typical love story; it’s a moving journey that connects you to Rhett and Lainey and their feelings. I felt Rhett's grief and deep love for Lainey. I felt so sad for these two and was rooting for them. They were truly meant to be together, and I loved every second of their emotional journey back to each other. The One is a must-read and did not disappoint. Will you cry? All signs point to yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. I can't begin to express how much I enjoyed this audiobook. I started reading this book and then grabbed the audiobook on release day. I am so glad I did. Reading and listening to this book in tandem was an amazing experience. Samantha and Connor are two of my favorite narrators, and their voices worked so well together for Rhett and Lainey's story. Samantha and Connor are the perfect voices for these complex characters, and they brought them to life in the best way. Marni has written an incredibly emotional story, and being able to hear these emotions had a deep impact on me. I thoroughly enjoyed my immersive reading experience.
Thanks to Marni Mann and Valentine PR for the gifted advanced reader copy of The One. Opinions expressed are my own.
December 28, 2024
The One is an angsty, second chance romance. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. Rhett is always grumpy, so I was excited to read Rhett’s story. Lainey is the only woman that Rhett has ever loved. When tragedy hits their relationship ends. Fifteen years later they have a second chance. Can they get past everything that happened? The One is the fifth and final book in The Spade Hotel Series. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the whole series.
December 21, 2024
The One is a billionaire, first love, second chance, tortured hero romance and I absolutely loved it. Rhett is a raging alphahole and we finally get to see why. Rhett & Lainey’s are soulmates and their story broke my heart. I am so happy they finally get the happy ending they both deserve.
December 15, 2024
Oh my actual goodness, I don’t know if I finished this book or if it finished me…. 5 is not enough stars, fill RTC my mind is blown with this one.
Edit:
Tropes:
🖤 Second Chance
🖤 Dual Timeline
🖤 Tortured Hero
🖤 Boy Obsessed
🖤 Coming Of Age
🖤 Highschool Sweethearts
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 First Love
🖤 Virgin FMC
“𝙸’𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚢, 𝙻𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚢, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚎.”
I received an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review. A huge thank you for this honor to read this early! 🫶🏻 These are 100% my true feelings and unbiased opinions on this book. Thank you @marnimann & @valentinepr_ for this arc! It’s an honor being on your team Marni!
Holy man Marni has blown me right out of the water! This book was so good, it will stick with me for a very long time! We go into it thinking that Rhett did something and we will get a lot of groveling, we have seen him be so grumpy and closed off for all the other books in this series and have no idea why! Once that “why” is revealed I had sooo many thoughts! My whole opinion changed and now I know it’s other people who should be groveling to him! Poor sweet baby Rhett has been so tortured and his heart has been so broken over something so traumatizing that it all makes sense!
I loved the premise here, the way that Marni wrote this dual timeline and was showing us the big moments as they happened and then in present time back to back added almost a suspense like aspect that had my anxiety through the roof (in a good way) I was in Marni’s DMs blowing them up as I was uncovering everything!
This truly gave me the same vibes as Catch The Sun by Jennifer Hartmann just in a slightly different way! I was blown away by this and was so different to the other books in this series but it was the perfect ending! This series has been such a wild ride and means so much to me! The Playboy was my very first gifted book, and I have been able to gain such a special friendship in Marni, even if it’s mostly me just yelling at her (nicely) 😂 this book and this series will forever be in my heart! This book has secured a spot in my top books of the year that’s for dang sure!!
Edit:
Tropes:
🖤 Second Chance
🖤 Dual Timeline
🖤 Tortured Hero
🖤 Boy Obsessed
🖤 Coming Of Age
🖤 Highschool Sweethearts
🖤 Billionaire
🖤 First Love
🖤 Virgin FMC
“𝙸’𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚢, 𝙻𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚢, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚎.”
I received an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review. A huge thank you for this honor to read this early! 🫶🏻 These are 100% my true feelings and unbiased opinions on this book. Thank you @marnimann & @valentinepr_ for this arc! It’s an honor being on your team Marni!
Holy man Marni has blown me right out of the water! This book was so good, it will stick with me for a very long time! We go into it thinking that Rhett did something and we will get a lot of groveling, we have seen him be so grumpy and closed off for all the other books in this series and have no idea why! Once that “why” is revealed I had sooo many thoughts! My whole opinion changed and now I know it’s other people who should be groveling to him! Poor sweet baby Rhett has been so tortured and his heart has been so broken over something so traumatizing that it all makes sense!
I loved the premise here, the way that Marni wrote this dual timeline and was showing us the big moments as they happened and then in present time back to back added almost a suspense like aspect that had my anxiety through the roof (in a good way) I was in Marni’s DMs blowing them up as I was uncovering everything!
This truly gave me the same vibes as Catch The Sun by Jennifer Hartmann just in a slightly different way! I was blown away by this and was so different to the other books in this series but it was the perfect ending! This series has been such a wild ride and means so much to me! The Playboy was my very first gifted book, and I have been able to gain such a special friendship in Marni, even if it’s mostly me just yelling at her (nicely) 😂 this book and this series will forever be in my heart! This book has secured a spot in my top books of the year that’s for dang sure!!
June 24, 2025
Rhett and Lainey’s story was such a heartbreak and emotional journey. To go through what they both did losing the love of your life and how he felt he was protecting Penelope and holding onto that secret for 15 years just broke my heart! But to also hold onto that love because you know there’s nobody else you’d rather spend your life with…just swoon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
December 2, 2024Wait damn why is she giving these books
Out like candy!!!!! Like lol I need this
Update - is this going to have a small town dab with his clothes on the cover?????
Out like candy!!!!! Like lol I need this
Update - is this going to have a small town dab with his clothes on the cover?????
December 27, 2024
"Time changed nothing, aside from making me older. My feelings-those went untouched."
Dang it, Rhett Cole. You confused me. You broke me. You have my heart always.
The One is the fifth and final book in Marni Mann's Spade Hotel series and Mann goes out with all the angst. Do you need to read the previous books to enjoy this one? No. But if you want to see how I initially saw Rhett and was confused by his actions but knew there was something deeper, then come join me! This dual timeline takes us to the past where Rhett met his first love and we get to see what made him into the complicated man he is today. It was sweet, fun, and beautiful at the beginning, but just wait for the other shoe to drop. How a moment in time can alter your future. Oh so heartbreaking. Gah! Just adored Rhett and Lainey, but also lost my heart right along with them too.
Rhett is a mess of a man. The only things he holds close are his work and family. His niece has him wrapped around her little finger and that is the only reason I knew there might be something more redeemable to him. Of course Mann does not disappoint telling his story. But to understand him, we have to go back to where it all started. To high school. To where first loves happen. To when everything was fun and easy. Until it wasn't.
Lainey Taylor returns to town after many years being gone, but she still has feelings that are quite raw when it comes to Rhett. And if you think you know, you have no idea.
I honestly had no idea what to expect when it came to this story and Rhett's journey, but I can tell you it was NOT this. I'm not always a fan of second chance romances simply because I don't get enough of the grovel. Of making up for what went wrong. But, Marni Mann proved me wrong with giving us a large portion of Rhett and Lainey's story in the past and laid a very solid foundation of their relationship. These two had a picture perfect relationship, but they also took on a lot of responsibilities that weren't theirs. It was heavy and broke my heart. They did things to protect others around them and ultimately it cost them their happiness. I will leave this review pretty vague, but believe me when I say that Lainey and Rhett are the ultimate definition of soulmates. They get their hard fought HEA, but it's anything but easy.
I'm so sad to see this series come to an end, but the way Ms Mann writes, I know we will get brief glimpses of these characters in the next series. In the meantime, be prepared for some angsty feels in this one. And lastly, please take Mann's suggestion of listening to her playlist while reading the book. I only did it with the second half and put it on shuffle, but I swear that playlist knew right where I was at and that music elevated my whole reading experience. All the emotions came flooding out. What a way to end an amazing series!
Dang it, Rhett Cole. You confused me. You broke me. You have my heart always.
The One is the fifth and final book in Marni Mann's Spade Hotel series and Mann goes out with all the angst. Do you need to read the previous books to enjoy this one? No. But if you want to see how I initially saw Rhett and was confused by his actions but knew there was something deeper, then come join me! This dual timeline takes us to the past where Rhett met his first love and we get to see what made him into the complicated man he is today. It was sweet, fun, and beautiful at the beginning, but just wait for the other shoe to drop. How a moment in time can alter your future. Oh so heartbreaking. Gah! Just adored Rhett and Lainey, but also lost my heart right along with them too.
Rhett is a mess of a man. The only things he holds close are his work and family. His niece has him wrapped around her little finger and that is the only reason I knew there might be something more redeemable to him. Of course Mann does not disappoint telling his story. But to understand him, we have to go back to where it all started. To high school. To where first loves happen. To when everything was fun and easy. Until it wasn't.
Lainey Taylor returns to town after many years being gone, but she still has feelings that are quite raw when it comes to Rhett. And if you think you know, you have no idea.
I honestly had no idea what to expect when it came to this story and Rhett's journey, but I can tell you it was NOT this. I'm not always a fan of second chance romances simply because I don't get enough of the grovel. Of making up for what went wrong. But, Marni Mann proved me wrong with giving us a large portion of Rhett and Lainey's story in the past and laid a very solid foundation of their relationship. These two had a picture perfect relationship, but they also took on a lot of responsibilities that weren't theirs. It was heavy and broke my heart. They did things to protect others around them and ultimately it cost them their happiness. I will leave this review pretty vague, but believe me when I say that Lainey and Rhett are the ultimate definition of soulmates. They get their hard fought HEA, but it's anything but easy.
I'm so sad to see this series come to an end, but the way Ms Mann writes, I know we will get brief glimpses of these characters in the next series. In the meantime, be prepared for some angsty feels in this one. And lastly, please take Mann's suggestion of listening to her playlist while reading the book. I only did it with the second half and put it on shuffle, but I swear that playlist knew right where I was at and that music elevated my whole reading experience. All the emotions came flooding out. What a way to end an amazing series!
December 23, 2024
I am so incredibly thankful that I received an ARC of The One from Marni and VPR. THIS BOOK DID ME IN. What on Earth did Marni put in here?
This book is dual timeline and dual POV. The dual timeline was IMPERATIVE to the story and to understand Rhett’s grumpy persona.
The One is about high school sweethearts, Rhett and Lainey. It takes us on a journey through meeting, dating, falling in love, and ultimately the tragedy that tears them apart for 15 years.
Shortly after Rhett and Lainey broke up in high school, Lainey decides to travel the world on her own to cope with her grief. She cuts off all communication with Rhett and tries to forget.
In present day, Rhett is known as being the complicated, grump who for one week a year goes completely off grid. Finding out the reason behind this and the reason for why Rhett is so broken, is HEARTBREAKING. The absolute devastation this man dealt with for 15 years would have broken even the strongest of people.
What the other doesn’t know, is that neither of them have stopped loving the other. And after 15 years there is a reunion in the most heartbreaking of places. Lainey eventually gives Rhett a chance to share his truth and she ultimately forgives him, knowing that she should not have blamed him in the first place.
This book was all of the things. All of the emotions. All of the feels.
♥️tortured hero
♥️second chance
♥️high school sweethearts
♥️billionaire
♥️first and only loves
♥️grief and tragedy
This book is dual timeline and dual POV. The dual timeline was IMPERATIVE to the story and to understand Rhett’s grumpy persona.
The One is about high school sweethearts, Rhett and Lainey. It takes us on a journey through meeting, dating, falling in love, and ultimately the tragedy that tears them apart for 15 years.
Shortly after Rhett and Lainey broke up in high school, Lainey decides to travel the world on her own to cope with her grief. She cuts off all communication with Rhett and tries to forget.
In present day, Rhett is known as being the complicated, grump who for one week a year goes completely off grid. Finding out the reason behind this and the reason for why Rhett is so broken, is HEARTBREAKING. The absolute devastation this man dealt with for 15 years would have broken even the strongest of people.
What the other doesn’t know, is that neither of them have stopped loving the other. And after 15 years there is a reunion in the most heartbreaking of places. Lainey eventually gives Rhett a chance to share his truth and she ultimately forgives him, knowing that she should not have blamed him in the first place.
This book was all of the things. All of the emotions. All of the feels.
♥️tortured hero
♥️second chance
♥️high school sweethearts
♥️billionaire
♥️first and only loves
♥️grief and tragedy
December 14, 2024
Wow… just WOW 😱.
Never in a million years did I think that THIS would be Rhett’s story! Yes, we knew something really big happened to mess him up so badly but not… this 💔.
I read The One in literally one sitting, I refused to put it down until I reached the end at 3 AM!
The way this book was written, it had you fooled to think that one specific thing happened between Rhett and a certain character, but then the truth was so much more shocking!!! Bravo to Marni Mann for weaving her story this way, she had you fooled until the revelation, which absolutely wrecked me 👏🏻. The tension building in this book was insane!!!
This was so different from any book I’ve read by this author, definitely my favourite Spade Hotel instalment, probably my favourite of Marni’s in general.
Written in now-and-then timelines, the “then” chapters made me feel like I was slowly watching a train wreck happen and the “now” chapters just… hurt 😭 .
Rhett and Lainey lived in absolute misery and limbo for the last 15 years, unable to move on from the events that happened on a boat after they graduated high school… these two were the definition of soulmates, nothing could come between them… until it did💔.
I can’t say much about the plot, it would be a huge spoiler and would take away from the experience of having your heart beat so hard and the suspense overwhelming you. This book deserves to be read blindly, trust me on this one!
Thank you to Marni Mann and ValentinePR for the eARC 🫶🏻🩷
Never in a million years did I think that THIS would be Rhett’s story! Yes, we knew something really big happened to mess him up so badly but not… this 💔.
I read The One in literally one sitting, I refused to put it down until I reached the end at 3 AM!
The way this book was written, it had you fooled to think that one specific thing happened between Rhett and a certain character, but then the truth was so much more shocking!!! Bravo to Marni Mann for weaving her story this way, she had you fooled until the revelation, which absolutely wrecked me 👏🏻. The tension building in this book was insane!!!
This was so different from any book I’ve read by this author, definitely my favourite Spade Hotel instalment, probably my favourite of Marni’s in general.
Written in now-and-then timelines, the “then” chapters made me feel like I was slowly watching a train wreck happen and the “now” chapters just… hurt 😭 .
Rhett and Lainey lived in absolute misery and limbo for the last 15 years, unable to move on from the events that happened on a boat after they graduated high school… these two were the definition of soulmates, nothing could come between them… until it did💔.
I can’t say much about the plot, it would be a huge spoiler and would take away from the experience of having your heart beat so hard and the suspense overwhelming you. This book deserves to be read blindly, trust me on this one!
Thank you to Marni Mann and ValentinePR for the eARC 🫶🏻🩷
February 6, 2025
5⭐️
I've been waiting for Rhett's story and although i didn't know it was gonna be so heartbreaking, i truly loved it .
I've been waiting for Rhett's story and although i didn't know it was gonna be so heartbreaking, i truly loved it .
January 8, 2025
Nope. Nope. Nope.
Rhett & Lainey are inevitable since they first lay eyes on each other freshman year. She moves away & they still pine for each other. She comes back junior year & they pick up where they left off - planning to spend their lives together starting with college & everything beyond. Then, the summer before college, tragedy strikes & separates them.
This was my first by Marni & I fear I started in the wrong place. Second chance romances and me are hit or miss & this was a BIG miss. It’s a pacing atrocity.
I’d love to say it’s the time hopping making me dizzy that was the driving force keeping me from enjoying this but that wasn’t it. This second chance romance was approx 75% past & 25% present. The conflict resolution didn’t resolve until 85% into the book! It felt like the book was focused more on the impending / previous trauma than the relationship itself.
I needed more of the couple together present day than the insta love we got. They go from 15 years apart to “I love you” instantly. I could understand that more from Rhett given he was head over heels from the get go & never let his candle for Lainey burn out. But Lainey? She’s spent 15 years running from her emotions and the truth. A decade & a half. How she didn’t agree to hear out the man she claims to love in the first place blows my mind. To then go THAT long without the conflict resolved did not feel realistic to me.
Thank goodness the audiobook was short. I pushed through when I probably should have put this one down.
Rhett & Lainey are inevitable since they first lay eyes on each other freshman year. She moves away & they still pine for each other. She comes back junior year & they pick up where they left off - planning to spend their lives together starting with college & everything beyond. Then, the summer before college, tragedy strikes & separates them.
This was my first by Marni & I fear I started in the wrong place. Second chance romances and me are hit or miss & this was a BIG miss. It’s a pacing atrocity.
I’d love to say it’s the time hopping making me dizzy that was the driving force keeping me from enjoying this but that wasn’t it. This second chance romance was approx 75% past & 25% present. The conflict resolution didn’t resolve until 85% into the book! It felt like the book was focused more on the impending / previous trauma than the relationship itself.
I needed more of the couple together present day than the insta love we got. They go from 15 years apart to “I love you” instantly. I could understand that more from Rhett given he was head over heels from the get go & never let his candle for Lainey burn out. But Lainey? She’s spent 15 years running from her emotions and the truth. A decade & a half. How she didn’t agree to hear out the man she claims to love in the first place blows my mind. To then go THAT long without the conflict resolved did not feel realistic to me.
Thank goodness the audiobook was short. I pushed through when I probably should have put this one down.
December 27, 2024
I've been waiting for Rhett's story and this one was worth the wait. I honestly wasn't expecting such a heart breaking and tear jerker of a story for a man who has been portrayed as the biggest asshole up until this point. Rhett and Lainey had been high school sweethearts and planning to spend their lives together until a terrible accident changed things forever. They spent 15 years apart and are finally reunited when Lainey decides to stop running from the past and return home. When Rhett realizes Lainey is back he decides it finally time to tell Lainey the truth about that tragic day. The dual timelines of this book did a great job of detailing the past events and what led to the present say story. I never thought Rhett would win me over, but everything makes so much sense after reading his story. I was rooting for him and Lainey the whole time. I'm sad to see this series ending, but this was a great series finale.
February 10, 2025
Told through a mix of flashbacks and raw, emotional moments, this story had me racing through the pages to uncover what tore Rhett and Lainey apart.
Once again, this book is not bad, but not my favorite second chance romance. If you have not read the other 4 books in this series, I think this book will be very hard to understand. The ending saved the book.
“ɪ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ɪ ʟᴇᴀʀɴ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɢʀᴏᴡ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɴᴇᴇᴅ—ᴀʟʟ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴍʏ ᴡʜʏ, ʙᴀʙʏ. ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ᴍʏ ʀᴇᴀsᴏɴ. ᴍʏ ᴏɴᴇ.”
“ᴛɪᴍᴇ ᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ɴᴏᴛʜɪɴɢ, ᴀsɪᴅᴇ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴍᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴏʟᴅᴇʀ. ᴍʏ ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢs-ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴡᴇɴᴛ ᴜɴᴛᴏᴜᴄʜᴇᴅ. ᴛʜᴀᴛ's ɴᴏᴛ ᴛʀᴜᴇ. ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜᴇᴅ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴍᴇ sᴛʀᴏɴɢᴇʀ.”
**Second chance
**High school sweethearts
**Billionaire
**Depression
**Death of loved one
**Slow burn... 15 years in making
Hoopla listen 🎶 4.0 rating
Once again, this book is not bad, but not my favorite second chance romance. If you have not read the other 4 books in this series, I think this book will be very hard to understand. The ending saved the book.
“ɪ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ɪ ʟᴇᴀʀɴ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɢʀᴏᴡ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɴᴇᴇᴅ—ᴀʟʟ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴ ᴍʏ ᴡʜʏ, ʙᴀʙʏ. ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ᴍʏ ʀᴇᴀsᴏɴ. ᴍʏ ᴏɴᴇ.”
“ᴛɪᴍᴇ ᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ɴᴏᴛʜɪɴɢ, ᴀsɪᴅᴇ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴍᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴏʟᴅᴇʀ. ᴍʏ ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢs-ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴡᴇɴᴛ ᴜɴᴛᴏᴜᴄʜᴇᴅ. ᴛʜᴀᴛ's ɴᴏᴛ ᴛʀᴜᴇ. ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜᴇᴅ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴍᴇ sᴛʀᴏɴɢᴇʀ.”
**Second chance
**High school sweethearts
**Billionaire
**Depression
**Death of loved one
**Slow burn... 15 years in making
Hoopla listen 🎶 4.0 rating
December 27, 2024
This was such a rollercoaster in the best way! I loved the story telling and the flashbacks and how it all connected to present day.
The story of young love and the aftermath of such a canon event.
I loved hearing about Rhett and what made him be the way he is. My heart broke for him and Lainey. I devoured this book in one day. Soo good!
Read this if you enjoy:
- Billionaire
- Second Chance
- Dual timeline
- High school sweethearts
- Tortured hero
Thank you so much Marni Mann for the review copy!
The story of young love and the aftermath of such a canon event.
I loved hearing about Rhett and what made him be the way he is. My heart broke for him and Lainey. I devoured this book in one day. Soo good!
Read this if you enjoy:
- Billionaire
- Second Chance
- Dual timeline
- High school sweethearts
- Tortured hero
Thank you so much Marni Mann for the review copy!
May 28, 2025
3.75/5⭐️ Real men get their toes painted pink to make their nieces happy!!!
Marni Mann coming in strong with this tear jerker. Lainey and Rhett are a once-in-a-lifetime kind of true love. I loved the organization of the book flipping back and forth between past and present tense. So many beautiful quotes from this precious man too🥹 This book was so much more emotional and deep than I anticipated. Definitely one of her more mild stories, in terms of spice. Lots of angst and wanting. A good read 🫶🏼
Marni Mann coming in strong with this tear jerker. Lainey and Rhett are a once-in-a-lifetime kind of true love. I loved the organization of the book flipping back and forth between past and present tense. So many beautiful quotes from this precious man too🥹 This book was so much more emotional and deep than I anticipated. Definitely one of her more mild stories, in terms of spice. Lots of angst and wanting. A good read 🫶🏼
June 3, 2025
This was one emotional ride. Lainey and Rhett have experienced so much in their past, included some pretty significant trauma. I loved how this was written with the dual timelines so we got to see them fall in love and for their story to unfold. And I definitely cried a few times while listening to this book. The audio was narrated in dual and done so well by Samantha Brentmoor and Connor Crais- two of my favorite narrators!
January 14, 2025
4 stars
December 31, 2024
Time flip flops
January 31, 2025
i knew this one was going to hurt, but i wasn't prepared for it to hurt this bad? i cried so hard, granted the plot twist hit very close to home. still, this is probably my favorite marni mann book due to the way it was written. this is an unpopular opinion, but i am a fan of flashbacks. i love second chance romance, especially when it's told going back and forth between the present timeline and the past. it made all the sense that the majority of this book wasn't about the now, but what came before because this wasn't about grovel; it was about grief.
December 29, 2024
Never ever did a book have me this hooked. Omg!
It was nerve- wracking.
I really really enjoyed this book. I was lucky to get it as an ARC and I could never be happier to have had this opportunity.
The chemistry between the two main characters were on point. From highschool lovers to strangers to enemies.
About the storyline: (might contain spoilers)
Starting with the 2 main characters Rhett and Lainey who fell in love during highschool and had big dreams about attending college together after graduation. But a big accident had lead them to go separate ways and not talking for 15 years. After "accidentally" bumping into each-other (he stalked her lol) they finally get to talk and she finds out the truth.
It’s obvious that they don’t want to loose anymore wasted time and they get back together really quick. And lots more! Leading to a bittersweet ending 🥲 Ps Rhett is such a green flag and always very patient with Lainey.
I also really liked how the author jumped from present day to the past. Giving us a better insight of what really happened in the past.
Great work to the author for writing such a good book! I really enjoyed her writing style and how well the story was plotted! :) Can’t wait for the other books!
Big thanks to Valentine PR and Marni Mann for this awesome opportunity! ❤️
Tropes: Highschool lovers, billionaire, second chance, possessive hero
Story line: 4.5/5
Spice level: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
It was nerve- wracking.
I really really enjoyed this book. I was lucky to get it as an ARC and I could never be happier to have had this opportunity.
The chemistry between the two main characters were on point. From highschool lovers to strangers to enemies.
About the storyline: (might contain spoilers)
Starting with the 2 main characters Rhett and Lainey who fell in love during highschool and had big dreams about attending college together after graduation. But a big accident had lead them to go separate ways and not talking for 15 years. After "accidentally" bumping into each-other (he stalked her lol) they finally get to talk and she finds out the truth.
It’s obvious that they don’t want to loose anymore wasted time and they get back together really quick. And lots more! Leading to a bittersweet ending 🥲 Ps Rhett is such a green flag and always very patient with Lainey.
I also really liked how the author jumped from present day to the past. Giving us a better insight of what really happened in the past.
Great work to the author for writing such a good book! I really enjoyed her writing style and how well the story was plotted! :) Can’t wait for the other books!
Big thanks to Valentine PR and Marni Mann for this awesome opportunity! ❤️
Tropes: Highschool lovers, billionaire, second chance, possessive hero
Story line: 4.5/5
Spice level: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
January 3, 2025
Marni mann just delivered another spicy romance with so much passion... loved this book so much.
I can't believe this series is already over... Rhett and Lainey were so good together. Since I've met Rhett in this series I wanted to know more about him and I wasn't disapointed.
If you're looking for a Billionaire romance, second chance, High Shool sweethearts than this book is definitely for you so don't wait and go.
What to expect :
💀 Tortured hero
💔 Second Chance
💕 High School Sweethearts
✨ First & Only Love
💵 Billionaire
I can't believe this series is already over... Rhett and Lainey were so good together. Since I've met Rhett in this series I wanted to know more about him and I wasn't disapointed.
If you're looking for a Billionaire romance, second chance, High Shool sweethearts than this book is definitely for you so don't wait and go.
What to expect :
💀 Tortured hero
💔 Second Chance
💕 High School Sweethearts
✨ First & Only Love
💵 Billionaire
December 29, 2024
The One is the final book of the Spade Hotel series. It is interconnected with the Dalton Family series and can be read as a standalone. The One features Rhett Cole of the famous luxury Cole Hotel Empire that is now the Cole & Spade Hotels. Cole has been the ultimate grumpy, a-hole throughout the series, and we are about to find out why...
The One has a 15 year timeline and is told in past & present. Rhett's story is emotional and heartbreaking. The first half of the book is very slow - slow burn. You get to know Rhett in the past along with his first love, Lainey.
This story was not my favorite. I felt like the timeline was too long but that might just be me. There was definitely angst combined with "first love" feelings. As always, Marni Mann lights the pages on fire with the intimate scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed the series. I am excited about the new series coming in 2025 starting with The Arrogant One, featuring Hart Weston as part of The Weston Group series.
3.5 stars
#AuthorMarniMann #TheOne #TheRebel #ThePlayboy #TheRebel #TheSinner #RhettAndLainey #HEA #Steamy #Romance #AlphaMale #StrongFemale
The One has a 15 year timeline and is told in past & present. Rhett's story is emotional and heartbreaking. The first half of the book is very slow - slow burn. You get to know Rhett in the past along with his first love, Lainey.
This story was not my favorite. I felt like the timeline was too long but that might just be me. There was definitely angst combined with "first love" feelings. As always, Marni Mann lights the pages on fire with the intimate scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed the series. I am excited about the new series coming in 2025 starting with The Arrogant One, featuring Hart Weston as part of The Weston Group series.
3.5 stars
#AuthorMarniMann #TheOne #TheRebel #ThePlayboy #TheRebel #TheSinner #RhettAndLainey #HEA #Steamy #Romance #AlphaMale #StrongFemale
January 12, 2025
4.5 Stars✨
3 Spices🌶️
The One by Marni Mann is an ardent, heartbreaking drama and a coming-of-age tale that delves deeply into the intricacies of love, sacrifice, redemption and sibling bonds.
Through a dual timeline narrative, Marni Mann excellently built and incorporated uncertainties and suspense, notably leading up to that unfortunate incident, which culminated in the heartbreaking and devastating relationship breakdown of the high school sweethearts. The chemistry between Rhett and Lainey feels authentic, encapsulating the highs and lows of unconditional love tested by adversity. It's also a poignant reminder that while love can be a potent force for forgiveness, growth, and healing, it is not always adequate to handle the ramifications of grief for some.
In addition to the subjects of remorse and sense of loss, the book also explores themes into the weighty topic of depression, drug addiction and mental health issues and reflects on how loved ones adapt to them.
Although the plot moved along at a solid pace in the beginning, the conclusion felt a little hurried. This final book of the series will charm readers with its roller coaster of emotions, authenticity, thought-provoking storyline, and the way it underscores the importance of communication, earning its spot as the second-best in the series on my list.
3 Spices🌶️
"I'll only ever have one why, Lainey, and you're the one." - Rhett Cole
The One by Marni Mann is an ardent, heartbreaking drama and a coming-of-age tale that delves deeply into the intricacies of love, sacrifice, redemption and sibling bonds.
"I could understand how Rhett could come across to people who didn't know him. Or for even those who did, there was a roughness to him, like a callus. One that I assumed, had taken shape after losing Pen. ... But what was inside that man was pure love. ... Someone who would stand by my side for the rest of my life. And someone who would never make me question his love. Because I didn't just feel it in my heart. I felt it everywhere." - Lainey Taylor
Through a dual timeline narrative, Marni Mann excellently built and incorporated uncertainties and suspense, notably leading up to that unfortunate incident, which culminated in the heartbreaking and devastating relationship breakdown of the high school sweethearts. The chemistry between Rhett and Lainey feels authentic, encapsulating the highs and lows of unconditional love tested by adversity. It's also a poignant reminder that while love can be a potent force for forgiveness, growth, and healing, it is not always adequate to handle the ramifications of grief for some.
In addition to the subjects of remorse and sense of loss, the book also explores themes into the weighty topic of depression, drug addiction and mental health issues and reflects on how loved ones adapt to them.
Although the plot moved along at a solid pace in the beginning, the conclusion felt a little hurried. This final book of the series will charm readers with its roller coaster of emotions, authenticity, thought-provoking storyline, and the way it underscores the importance of communication, earning its spot as the second-best in the series on my list.
December 29, 2024
A nice book overall.. but I was waiting for so long for this book and I thought something was missing in this! 🤔
A lot of angst was promised but I couldn't see much of it! The angst was told to us not really shown/felt.
More of the book was in flashback and while I get the point of showing the full story of what happened in the past.. I was more interested in getting to know how the MCs would handle it in the present!! The present was rushed and I felt wanting more and more of grown up love between the MCs. All we were shown was a puppy love.. there is no problem in it though.. but when it was marketed as an "angsty, tortured hero" vibes.. there was more of a suspense about what actually happened rather than the MCs recovering from the loss together when they lost a lot of time together by some miscommunication.
I soooo wanted to love the present Rhett.. but didn't really got much time with him..rather we got baby Rhett!!
A lot of angst was promised but I couldn't see much of it! The angst was told to us not really shown/felt.
More of the book was in flashback and while I get the point of showing the full story of what happened in the past.. I was more interested in getting to know how the MCs would handle it in the present!! The present was rushed and I felt wanting more and more of grown up love between the MCs. All we were shown was a puppy love.. there is no problem in it though.. but when it was marketed as an "angsty, tortured hero" vibes.. there was more of a suspense about what actually happened rather than the MCs recovering from the loss together when they lost a lot of time together by some miscommunication.
I soooo wanted to love the present Rhett.. but didn't really got much time with him..rather we got baby Rhett!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 662 reviews