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Slave to Love

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There are risks to mixing business with pleasure...

IF A MAN HAS AN AFFAIR AT WORK, HE'S A STUD.

He was a royal prick.
The night we met, he ignored me.
Then Mr. Big Shot CEO grabbed my ass in a business meeting.
My boss just loaned me out to this guy.
Now, we’re working on a major project together.
And our chemistry is dangerous.
Combustible.
If I allow it to ignite, I’ll risk losing that promotion.
Worse, what if I lose myself in him?


IF A WOMAN HAS AN AFFAIR AT WORK, SHE'S A SLUT.

From the moment I saw her I knew she was trouble.
It was the combination of her fresh face, smart mouth and nipples that seemed to know my name.
This woman could satisfy my needs both in the boardroom and the bedroom.
But there was more to it than that.
I wanted her.
Really wanted her.
And I was in the position to change the course of her life.
But I’ve got secrets, secrets that could destroy her.
And either make her mine or drive her away forever.

This is a STAND ALONE novel.

284 pages, Paperback

First published January 14, 2016

90 people are currently reading
2012 people want to read

About the author

Julie A. Richman

24 books1,877 followers
USA Today Bestselling author Julie A. Richman is a native New Yorker living deep in the heart of Texas. A creative writing major in college, reading and writing fiction has always been a passion. Julie began her corporate career in publishing in NYC and writing played a major role throughout her career as she created and wrote marketing, advertising, direct mail and fundraising materials for Fortune 500 corporations, advertising agencies and non-profit organizations. She is an award winning nature photographer plagued with insatiable wanderlust. Julie and her husband have one son and a white German Shepherd named Juneau.

Join my mailing list: http://eepurl.com/RYac1
Come hang out in my private readers group: http://bit.ly/2RichmansRogues

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
Profile Image for ~IreneOust~.
509 reviews766 followers
January 19, 2016

If you are familiar with Julie A. Richman's work, you'd know that her specialty is the following:

1. older (as in 35+ years old) characters
2. male characters you want to exist IRL because they are real, flawed and very much swoon-worthy
3. female characters you want to become BFFs with because they are smart, fun and independent
4. great storytelling

This book is no exception.

It's a great tale of two people who are haunted by the demons of their past. Their attraction to each other is instant. Their journey of becoming a couple is a slow burn.

It had funny and emotional moments. It had steamy parts. It had great [intelligent] banter. It had angst. It made me laugh and it made me cry.

If you go into this read expecting instalove and lots of sex, you'll be disappointed.

Overall verdict: if I had a checklist, this story would tick off every box in order for it to be a 5 star read, hence my rating.

Cheers!


** ARC provided by an author in exchange for an honest review.

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Profile Image for ✦❋Arianna✦❋.
790 reviews2,552 followers
January 25, 2016
2 Stars!!

description

I really, really wanted to enjoy this one, but unfortunately I couldn’t. I love office romances and reading the blurb I truly believed I found a great one. It goes without saying it was not the case. The blurb actually is better than the story, but this is just my humble opinion since it seems everyone loved/liked this one…everyone but me. I hate to be in minority and I’m usually not, but it happens to everyone once in a while I guess.

description

Yes, I actually think this is one of the classic case…it’s not you, it’s me…The story was easy to read and I knew that from the beginning. I was stupefied how long it took me to read it. I couldn’t get into the story from the start and believe me, I tried. But more than that, I pushed myself to finish this one. In the end, I didn’t care at all about the story or about these characters.

description

The story fallows Sierra, a successful woman in the corporate world. She worked her butt off to be the best that she can be. When she has to work on a project with Hale, a successful, well known business man, who hires the company Sierra works for, she’s more than eager to show everyone how good she is at her job. She never expected to be so attracted with Hale and she never expected the attraction to be mutual. She tries to stay professional, but it’s harder and harder to stay that way since Hale seems to be as infatuated with her as much as she is with him. That’s one problem – Sierra “doesn’t sh*t where she eats”.

That’s all you have to know about this story.

Now, as my rating says, I didn’t totally dislike this story. Both Sierra and Hale were likeable enough characters…I guess…for the most part. Another aspect of the story that was ok, was the writing. But it was just that…ok. IMO it wasn’t entertaining enough to make me love the story, or even like it more than I did. It wasn’t as flawless as I usually like.

description

If you are allergic to instas of any kind, than this book it’s not for you. While it doesn’t have insta-love…exactly, it definitely has insta-lust.

description

Like I mentioned above I liked the two main characters…I repeat, I guess, but I had a couple of issues with both of them. Sierra is portrayed at the beginning as a powerful, strong woman, but as the story unfolded she felt like a joke. Why? Because I really felt I was reading about another character after the 20% mark. One moment she was smiling, then she was crying because apparently she couldn’t comprehend why Hale is so professional with her, even if she was the one who insisted staying that way. Huh?!?!??? She was insecure and almost clingy, which I obviously didn’t like at all.

description

Needless to say she was just an ok character to me.

Her conversations with her boobs and with her nipples made me cringe at times. Maybe she wanted to be funny or …I don’t know, but she was definitely not. At least not to me.

description

“My thighs twitch at the thought and I’m too afraid to look down and see what my nipples are doing. I can hear them screaming, “Bite me through the shirt.” “Yeah, bite her, but suck me.” I silently tell them, “Shut up, sluts.”


***

“I want to show enough, but not too much. Sorry nipples, you don’t get featured in this shoot.”


description

“I’m wondering if my ravenous attack on the greasy meal has grossed him out, causing his hasty departure or if my slutty little nipples did the trick with their aggressive behavior.”


***

“Returning my smile, his eyes travel from my face to my breasts, where he gets an immediate hello from my damn too friendly nipples, who are showing off for him. Look at me. No, look at me.”


To say her nipples's "voice" freak me out it’s an understatement. I for one don’t talk with my lady parts…but who knows…maybe I’m the only one.

description

Hale was a little better than Sierra, but again he was portrayed at the beginning in some way and as the story unfolded he was portrayed differently.

One aspect that I really, really care about in a romance novel is the chemistry between the characters. Here I didn’t felt any. I waited and waited to feel something, but unfortunately I didn’t find any sparks between these two. On top of that the romance between them (which btw was poorly done) started too late into the story. Their interactions were barely there, so as you would expect their relationship development was almost missing.

description

I hoped at least the sex scenes between them to be satisfying, but it wasn’t the case. They were actually pretty lame.

The story is told in dual pov, but I had a hard time figuring out who was talking more times than I can count. Ahh...and let’s not forget about the unnecessary drama that could have been avoided if the two MC tried harder to communicate like two adults.

I am in the minority with my opinion, so keep in mind that just because it didn't work for me, doesn't mean it won't work for you.

description
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
2,269 reviews58 followers
January 14, 2016
*updated*

Slave to Love is one helluva book. Julie Richman has once again proven she can not only write a beautiful love story but make it both sexy and intriguing at the same time. With Hale and Sierra, the sparks fly, the chemistry soars and in the middle of it all is the uncertainty as to whether or not they should mix business with pleasure. Oh but when all common sense goes by the wayside, we are treated to front row seats to the burgeoning romance that will steal your heart.

Told in alternating POV's, we are lucky enough to know just how rattled both Hale and Sierra are by the attraction each feels for the other. Their careers are everything, however, and it takes much thought and a whole lot of redirection to even think of making this work.

I loved both of these characters from the start. At first I thought Hale would be a distasteful man-whore but I should have known better. The author would only give us men worthy of our adoration. Right along with Sierra, I fell for Hale hook, line and sinker. His dedication to not only his work but also to the woman of his dreams made me swoon.

And Sierra. She can go toe to toe with the best of them and I loved her fire and sense of style. The author gives us strong heroines, ones who you want to emulate and at the same time enjoy a night out with. Strong but sensual, tough but tender. With Hale, there is gorgeous passion and they are matched perfectly.

Their journey was not an easy one and I was completely captivated from the start. I got lost in the author's words and I just didn't want to let go. Slave to Love has all the feels you desire along with characters that grab your attention because they are smart, witty, sexy and downright addicting.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Another simply superb look at love that only Julie Richman can deliver.

A huge 5++ stars!
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
894 reviews767 followers
January 21, 2016
♥♥ 5 'MERMAID' STARS ♥♥

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Friggin' loved it!
➜ Clear, vivid, believable dialogues
➜ Dynamic characters
➜ Compelling pace
➜ Fascinating love story
➜ Amazing, beautiful lines

This is one of the books that I did not want to end...I wanted to keep reading forever!! I wanted to crawl into it and live amongst the pages! This is NOT A BORING book.

So 5 stars for keeping me on my toes the entire time!


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Profile Image for Julie Richman.
Author 24 books1,877 followers
February 9, 2016
SLAVE TO LOVE

There are risks to mixing business with pleasure... Or are there?

Get ready for this hot, sexy and funny standalone about the game of love played out on the corporate battlefield

Order Today at Amazon - http://bit.ly/Slave2LoveAM
Order Today at iBooks - http://bit.ly/iBooksSlave2Love
Order Today at B&N - http://bit.ly/BNSlave2Love

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Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,787 reviews5,030 followers
July 28, 2017
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This book started off with a bang, but sadly didn't keep in that track for me. Unfortunately, I felt like it became boring and uneventful. I liked the overall premise since I love a workplace romance sometimes. While I enjoyed their flirty banter at the beginning of the book -- I missed it in the second half. I get that they had put their working hats on and decided to wait until the job was done to pursue a relationship, but I wanted more! I thought that their big relationship crisis was avoidable with some good ol' communication, and that the separation was not necessary. I wouldn't say that this had anything that would make me upset or rant, but it wasn't the best either -- just meh.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sierra and Hale's story. They meet when Hale hires the company that Sierra works for. Hale is immediately stand-of fish (which we learn later is because he is tongue-tied by Sierra), and Sierra doesn't get a good first impression (other than the fact that she is really attracted to him). She ends up being lent out to Hale by her boss for a project he has at his Austin, TX location. Sierra quickly lets Hale know that she doesn't "sh!t where she eats" and they form a flirty friendship, but also agree to explore their feelings further once she no longer works for him. There are some funny moments, some work colleague issues, some sexy times, some secrets being revealed, and a separation for the couple...but they find their way back to each other and get heir HEA ending.

POV: This alternated between Sierra and Hale's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I did find myself skimming in about the 3/4 mark. It became more technical about their work and I became bored with the details. I thought the book started out great, fizzled down, and then ended with a cute full wrap up epilogue.

Instalove: No. Instalust for sure, but I would say that their stronger feelings developed over a good amount of time.

H rating: 3 stars. Hale. I liked him, but I wanted him to be more upfront with her about some things to prevent some unnecessary drama.

h rating: 4 stars. Sierra. I liked her drive and her integrity in her work. She was sassy and I enjoyed her relationship with her friends.

Sadness level: Low. I didn't need any tissues here.

Heat level: Moderate. They are intimate towards the ending of the book, and think it was kind of meh.

Descriptive sex: Yes.

Safe sex: Yes and no. There is a birth control conversation, but std status wasn't discussed but only implied.

OW/OM drama: Yes, but really minimal.

Sex scene with OW or OM:

Cheating:

Possible Triggers:

Closure: This had pretty good closure with a cute epilogue. I would call it a HEA ending even though I wanted more time with them as an official couple.

How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon.

Safety: Safe with exception
Profile Image for Donna ~ The Romance Cover.
2,907 reviews323 followers
January 20, 2016
Slave to Love by Julie Richman
4.5 stars!!

“To crashing through walls without decimating all boundaries.”


I love Julie Richman’s voice and Slave to Love was no different. From the start I was enamoured with Sierra Stone and it is unusual for me to click with the heroine first.

Sierra Stone was ballsy, she was a woman in a man’s world and had to work twice as hard to stay there. She had the attitude, integrity and drive to succeed and her work hard mentality had begun to pay dividends. She was respected in her field and used her brains to succeed rather than what was between her legs even though she was gorgeous. However, what Sierra had that her counterparts didn’t was the respect of those that reported to her, she loved her reps and they in return loved her and both would walk over hot coals for the other. With a team that dedicated and driven it would be hard for anyone to stand in their way. Her ingenuity was second to none, she was destined for greatness. Her work gave her no time for relationships and she was adamant that she would never have to rely on a man for anything, her mum had been bitten and she was not about to make the same mistake. No man had made her question her beliefs…until she met Hale Lundstrom.

Hale was successful in his own right, he was well known in the technology area and used his past and his intelligence to make the world a better place. He had fantastic morals, a great work ethic but had always kept his heart to himself. He came across professional and aloof but underneath the façade was a genuine lovely man. He was totally and utterly adorable. He was quite content with meaningless flings until he met Sierra Stone, a woman that literally left him tongue tied.

When their paths cross and they are going to have to work with each other Sierra soon sets down the no fraternization rules despite what her libido tells her. These two have fun trying to resist the other. Julie Richman really captured that chemistry and their attraction for one another and the constant battle that each had in trying to keep their hands off one another. I loved the bond that these two had and their banter back and forth had me smiling from ear to ear. This is what I love about a Julie Richman book and what I have come to expect, character connection is pivotal and she delivers in spades.

“I like being with you.”
“I’ll one-up you… I don’t like being without you.”


This book also has an air of suspense surrounding it too, but this element I cannot give away, it did however really work and brought balance and intrigue to what was already a page turning read.

Julie Richman delivered a story with relatable characters, that had the perfect blend of emotion, wit and suspense. A book that had me laughing out loud one minute and brows creased in concentration and tension the next. But and this is a big but, this is a Julie Richman novel and she has never failed to make me cry and yet, just when I thought I was safe, she does it again. So yes, I did shed a tear or two but that just emphasises the talent that she has for bringing her characters to life on the page.

“…as far as being worth the wait. I’ve waited a lifetime for you, Sierra. A few months more was nothing.”


Totally loved this book and highly recommend a read.

“One little Maraschino cherry represented so much more.”


www.theromancecover.com
Profile Image for  Linathebookaddict  .
1,565 reviews407 followers
January 19, 2016
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ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

What a remarkable book! A strong heroine who doesn't take BS from anyone and an absolutely fantastic hero! This book was so real and the emotions were strong with an appropriate touch of realism.
Sierra is a succesful woman in the corporate world. She works hard and she is extremely intelligent.
When she has to work with Hale, an also succesful business man, her world is turned upside down. The attraction is instant, but the danger greater than their immediate pull.
Sierra would never mix business with pleasure. She has integrity but she cannot help but bond with Hale. Their encounters and banter are both sweet and full of excitement.
Their relationship seems nearly impossible when they are business partners. But what after their cooperation is over? Is there a possibility for them?
The writing was amazing. It really drew me in from the start. I could not put this book down. The characters were relatable and honest. Just the way they should be. The story moved on fast, but it did not lack important details and back stories. I loved it.
If you want something that will put you out of your book funk, then this is for you. It worked for me!

*****5 stars*****



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Profile Image for CRlovebooks ❤️.
482 reviews32 followers
January 14, 2016
5 amazing stars for this awesome book!!!! I was lucky enough to get an advance copy and I am so glad I did! This book was amazing.
There's a hot guy in town girls and his name is Hale Lundstrom aka Mr. Big Shot...Hot CEO
Julie has done it again. Each book, I read, I think that she cannot possibly write another one that I will love this much. I love them just as much as the previous ones. Each time she proves me wrong and I could not help but fall in love with both of the characters Hale and Sierra.
Sierra is strong, smart, witty, loving, and has tough exterior with a warm heart. Truly a strong female character.
5 amazing sensual stars for this amazing book. It blew me away. I loved it from the beginning until the end.
This is another wonderful installment by Julie Richman. Definitely a must read. Kudos to you!!!
Profile Image for Nancy Metsch.
1,368 reviews3 followers
January 9, 2016
BOOM! Totally amazing
There were a lot of surprises in this amazing book. First before I write my review I want to thank Julie for writing it.
Sierra was just a perfect badass. She's tough as nails and has a take no prisoner's persona. But underneath the armor is a very soft and loving woman. She's the type that when she loves you she loves 100% and will protect you with all she has.
Enter Hale, I loved him after awhile. The way he was when he first met Sierra made me want to junk punch him. But then as the story unfolds you find out that he's actually a great guy. This is a must read
Profile Image for Book-Bosomed  blog.
516 reviews259 followers
January 18, 2016
4.25 Stars

Sierra Stone, 33 is a sassy, confident fresh breeze in the corporate world and in the fictional one. She’s not meek or mild and she doesn’t play games. She also doesn’t “shit where she eats.” And that’s probably why the new client, handsome Hale Lundström, 37, is throwing her off. Hale is instantly attracted to her and at times he lets his instincts take the lead.

“‘You are so damn sexy, mermaid. The night I met you, I went home and jerked off in the shower thinking about you. About your gorgeous hair, and those nipples, which yes, I will suck and your pretty smile…’”

Neither Hale nor Sierra can deny their pull and rapport, and thus negotiating a relationship becomes a slippery slope.

I’ll admit from the blurb I expected it to be way sexier—like all over the boardroom dirty. It falls a little short in that kind of steam department, in quantity to be precise. That’s not due to any lack of chemistry; I definitely felt the sparks. This is a slow burn romance and it’s built up well. All in all, it’s a fairly sweet, light-hearted romance with quite a few ‘ahh’ moments.

“‘I like being with you...’” – Sierra
“‘I’ll one up you…I don’t like being without you.’” – Hale

Sierra is a great female character. She’s smart, down-to-earth, has integrity, and holds her own in a male dominated business world.

“‘You have perfect legs for Louboutins.’” – Hale
“‘I know, don’t I.’” – Sierra

I found the un-PC corporate bantering rather funny—“two bitches.” There were quite a few places that the story was good for a laugh.

Hale is a decent guy who wants the girl but makes a few missteps along the way. That’s not to say Hale doesn’t learn from his mistakes, but the prospective relationship is plagued with its fair share of misunderstandings and misperceptions. Oh, but drunk Hale is quite adorable and swoon-worthy.

Told via Sierra and Hale’s alternating first person point of view, my biggest critique would probably be that the chapters’ narration isn’t labeled. In other words, I was sometimes a paragraph or more into the chapter when I had to readjust who I thought was speaking. Their name at the top would be a simple fix to this confusion though.

Slave to Love is a stand-alone with a sweet ending!

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review/blog tour
Profile Image for D.
761 reviews
January 28, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Julie Richman has a fabulous talent for bringing social awareness into her stories without feeling like we're being lectured. She pulls in current events and pop culture without it coming across as a teen gossip magazine.
Inevitably there is always one point in a Julie Richman novel that will leave you in tears. Slave To Love was no different.
Richman creates strong characters both male and female. I love that when she creates an alpha male there is an equally charged and feisty alpha female. The difference in a Julie Richman novel is the characters are real. People you might even know. The chemistry between Hale and Sierra is perfect. Their witty banter and sass is trademark to a Richman novel. I fell in love with both of these characters right out of the gates. Richman balances her stories with a great sense of humor, great dirty bits, cheeky flirty bits and just enough angst to tug on your heart strings. I will also say that Julie Richman's dialogue in a book is fabulous because the characters say what you would expect them too. They aren't in their 30's talking like a teen auditioning for a spot alongside the Kardashians. They aren't in the 20's speaking like their next in line for Jello at senior's bridge night at the local community centre.
The storyline fits the characters and flows flawlessly. I didn't want the story to end. I'm hoping there will be a follow up story involving one of the secondary characters-- Jeff.
If you haven't read a Julie Richman book, Slave To Love would be a great introduction.
D 5/5
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,976 reviews208 followers
January 14, 2016
Julie, Julie, Julie. I always know to expect so much awesomeness from your books, but each time you just blow my expectations away!

"One little Maraschino cherry represented so much more."

Slave to Love will make your insides bubble up with giddiness and happiness. You can't help but smile throughout the majority of this book. I found myself laughing out loud many times from the banter between the characters. And I absolutely loved the background on the whole story - quite interesting.

"You've set the benchmark and you've set it high."

Once you meet Sierra, you will fall in love with her. She is sassy, smart, witty and a very strong woman. She's worked her way up the corporate ladder and she's not about to put her morals to the side just to move up further.

Hale is WOW. I don't even know where to start. He comes across at first as the typical male with a huge ego. But we quickly get to see a side of him that he truly surprises even himself. Sierra is this man's kryptonite.

"You scare me more than having a gun pointed at my head, close range, although you both hold the power to stop my heart."

I loved watching these two build a very strong working relationship that buds into something more over time. The flow of this story is absolutely perfect. It's the perfect buildup. There are a few bumps in the road but what relationship isn't without it's ups and downs.

Julie's writing always pulls me into the story and makes me feel everything. And now just from the main characters but also the secondary characters. You get a sense of their protection over their friends. As I said before, I found myself laughing quite a few times throughout this book. I really enjoyed the humorous and comical ribbing between everyone.

"No mistake, Hale. I'm walking out with my dignity."

Julie wrote another beautiful love story. Not only will fall you in love with the story, but you will fall in love with these characters. I am hoping that we get to read a few more stories from some stand out secondary characters.

Profile Image for Lorena  Garcia -- Brittany's Book Blog.
1,820 reviews58 followers
January 15, 2016
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**

This was a fun, romantic, sexy, and angsty read that will have you literally attached to your device until the end.

Sierra and Hale make one scorchingly hot couple.

Loved how Sierra and Hale were so focused on their job and yet they had such a fun and flirty banter with each other.

Ms. Richman did a superb job with this book. The story line was great, it definitely picked my interest from the get-go.

As much as Sierra was this strong character, she had her weak moments, but only when it came to Hale Lundstrom. He had a certain aura that just had all the women swooning over him and yet he just fell hard for Sierra. He loved her intelligence, her attitude and her motivation to work hard and keep her superiors happy.

I can guarantee you that you will enjoy this book very much! I always take joy in reading a book that takes place at the workplace and the boss and employee end up an item in the end.

Totally five star read!

Profile Image for Laura Schmidt.
4 reviews24 followers
January 9, 2016
Julie Richman never disappoints, engaging story ,romantic,corporate world with a twist, leaves you wanting more and a smile, and you become part of the characters,...loved it !
Profile Image for Kim.
2,849 reviews177 followers
January 14, 2016
4.5+ stars

Sierra Stone is a force to be reckoned with. She's a sexy, tough, unfiltered, and smart sales executive. Hale Lundstrom is CEO of his own successful business and a large new client for the company she works for. And he sees something in her that he likes both for his business and himself.

They are both stubborn tenacious, and not always tactful. They spark immediately and not always in a good way, but eventually are both fighting an attraction they know they should not act on. As they begin to work closer together on a project, their connection and feelings begin to emerge. And just whey can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel and a chance to try to move forward, their worlds continue to shift around them.

They are living in a cutthroat world where secrets can damage, and competition to be the best can become too ruthless. Trust can be broken, and without trust and a true understanding it is hard to believe in the sincerity of others. Both Sierra and Hale are strong-willed alpha personalities with their own needs, agendas, and personal issues. In some ways they complement each other so well both professionally and personally and sometimes their stubbornness and single-mindedness pushes them apart.

I loved Hale and the way we began to see under his layers. Initially appearing aloof and arrogant, we began to see his passion, humor, protectiveness, need for success, and responsibility. He had a charismatic, dynamic personality that drew others in and helped make him a success. He was shaped by his past experiences that were slowly revealed. He was a hot alpha businessman with sharp edges, a brilliant mind, and a hidden softer center. He was used to getting what he wanted when he wanted it and not having to work that hard to get it.

Sierra wanted to be taken seriously, was driven, but also well liked. She was passionate, bold, and fearless in business...but trust and relationships did cause her to take pause. She was a believer in ethics and wanted to achieve on her own merit and not rely on her outer beauty. But she did usually make an impression on the men around her. She was focused on her goals, being the best at her job, and being a good leader.

Their lives revolved around success in business until they found each other. They challenged and pushed, but also demanded respect of each other. Boundaries in place became harder not to cross. They had a witty rapport, chemistry, and tons of sexual tension that just kept building. And the book did not have to rely on a lot of sex scenes to illustrate that connection. But secrets, omissions, and circumstances had the potential to end them before they could even get a real relationship to a good starting place.

This story ended up having many layers and the characters were complex and intriguing. I enjoyed getting both Sierra and Hale's unfiltered points of view. I was engaged in the story and all of the unexpected twists and turns. The story went some places I really did not see coming. Getting to the heart of the mysterious Hale was an interesting journey. And Sierra was a strong, caring heroine even during the times she felt her weakest. I came to really like them as a couple and felt the good and bad right along with them. The side characters added more humor, snark, drama, and competition. And I love it when there are some character crossovers!

This was fast-paced, sexy, and funny. But it also was dramatic, frustrating, intriguing, heartfelt, and downright swoon-worthy. It was a full story where the character's decisions were driven by ethics, trust, feelings, and priorities as they navigated the competitive environment that they both were immersed in. Sometimes it is not wise to mix business with pleasure and sometimes it just cannot be avoided, but it is the way it is handled and perseverance that will determine success or failure.

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,889 reviews160 followers
January 18, 2016
I absolutely loved Slave to Love...Sierra and Hale's banter and sizzling connection is there right from their first meeting, and it only continues to grow as their time together increases. Even though their first few encounters did not show Hale in a good light, once Sierra puts him in his place and Hale witnesses other males’ treatment of her, he sees the error of his ways, which Julie A. Richman expresses thoughtfully from Hale’s own perspective, and he works to make things right with Sierra so she can truly see the man he is.

Despite Sierra's need to keep things strictly professional while they're working together, she can't help but be drawn to Hale and yearn for more time outside of the office with him. From the beginning, it’s clear that Sierra and Hale are perfect for each other, but there are many obstacles, beyond their job titles, for them to work through in order to give a relationship a chance. Through much of the story, Hale has to prove himself time and time again to Sierra due to miscommunications, outside interference, and Sierra's childhood insecurities. It seems like it should be so easy for them to be together because they get along so well, share similar interests, and crave each other's bodies, but there's so much Sierra and Hale don't know about each other and a multitude of missteps along the way that threaten to destroy everything Sierra feels for Hale before they can even give themselves to each other.

Slave to Love is told in dual point of view, so readers are able to understand both Sierra and Hale's feelings and witness the truth of many of their conflicts, which, in some ways, makes their issues frustrating to watch but it also shows that Sierra and Hale's hearts are so involved that, that's what they lead with, which ends up hurting them a few times along the way. Julie A. Richman does a fantastic job building the romantic element that’s at play between Hale and Sierra, which makes their first time so much better!

Slave to a job or slave to a love that may never be found again? For me, that’s an easy choice, but for Sierra, someone who’s worked diligently to make a name for herself by doing things the right way, it doesn’t seem like both a man and a career is a possibility. But, what Sierra grows to understand is that the right man can make everything worth it…the right man can give her what she wants and what she needs simply by giving her the chance to be who she is.

Julie A. Richman does an amazing job delivering a sexy, sassy, and sweet story about two people who have always put business first, but now have a reason to make room for a worthwhile personal life because Hale and Sierra fit each other perfectly.

Everything I needed answers to was explained, which makes the story feel complete…the only thing I wish I could have witnessed at the end is Susan and Robyn getting their just deserts in the end, but after I messaged Julie, she gave me the insight I needed;)

A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
January 18, 2016
Sierra Stone is making her mark in a man’s world. She’s one of the most successful business managers in her company and is in the running for a promotion into her boss’s position. She’s loved by her staff for not only her ability to manage, but because she’s more than willing to jump in and help in any situation, and she allows her staff to do their jobs as needed as long as business is conducted with dignity and integrity. Sierra is well aware that there’s no mixing of business and pleasure because she wants to earn her promotion by her work ethic not on her back.

Hale Lindstrom, CEO, is used to getting his way. And he wants Sierra for both her brain and her body. She’s a perfect match for him—both in the boardroom and in the bedroom—but Sierra won’t cross that line until the project they’re working on is over. But what happens when Sierra discovers that Hale’s been withholding information about her future? Will the attraction and mutual respect and admiration be enough to move them into a romantic relationship or will the fallout from the reveal break them apart for good?

Whoa. This book was amazing! It had everything—strong, smart, sexy heroine alongside of strong, smart, sexy hero. Sierra and Hale are magic together and separate! Both characters are so well developed and it’s a delight to delve into their heads and relationship. I loved how they were both such strong individuals on their own too—and how they didn’t just bow down to the demands of the other. And, whoa, they’re ridiculously sexy together, too! I FLOVED the ending.

Ms. Richman never fails to weave an amazing story—I’m a huge fan of her Needing Moore series—and Slave to Love is a fantastic addition to her writing catalog. ~ Missy, 5 + stars
Profile Image for Tina.
824 reviews23 followers
January 20, 2016
Oh what a book. I am in a true book hangover. This was my first Julie Richman book, and I am now a fan for life. This book was so emotional and I kept flipping those pages as fast as possible. I decided sleep didn't matter in the grand scheme of things if I got to finish this amazing book. Hale will melt your hearts and singe your panties. Woah momma.

Hale has a past that has turned him into the man he is today. He has been through tragedy that changed him and burdened him. He was out to save the world as best he could. When he meets Sierra, all bets are off. He is rendered speechless at their first meeting causing Sierra to think he was a jerk. That couldn't be further from the truth.

Sierra was a top notch sales manager. She kicked butt and took names.She worked her a*s off to get where she was and wasn't willing to sacrifice that for a man, but was her strong will enough to stand a chance against Hale? Hell no.

They work together on a project professionally but are really falling for each other quickly, but when chaos ensues can they make it through in one piece?

I wish I could give more than 5 stars
Any book that makes me say screw sleep, I'm finishing that book, is a one click for sure. Wonderful book hangover bliss right now.
Profile Image for Christy McCurry.
552 reviews20 followers
January 14, 2016
This book was outstanding. This is my first Julie A. Richman read. I am so excited I was not sure what to expect but she reeled me right in from the very first page. I love it when a story grabs your attention quickly and Slave to Love did that for me. It kept me intrigued and turning the pages and had me in a fit giggling, and wanting to throat punch someone at times.

Hale and Sierra's story is full of twist, and turns, deceit, drama, & hot sex and strong characters.

If you never read one of Julie A Richman's novels this is the perfect one to start with.

Highly Recommend

Christy
Radical Reads Book Blog

+++ Arc provided in exchange for my honest review.+++
Thank you

Profile Image for Bhav Mistry.
2 reviews
January 13, 2016
Julie Richman has done it again with this amazing love story which is full of drama and suspense. Based within the corporate world of business you meet two strong characters Sierra & Hale both successful in there own ways, when business throws them together they must decide on whether to hold back & wait or risk it all by falling to temptation. I enjoyed it so much that as much as I tried I couldn't put it done until I'd gotten to the last page.
Profile Image for Chu.
1,459 reviews72 followers
January 18, 2016
Sierra was a woman on her way to the top. Yes, she’s a bombshell, but she didn’t get to the top by sleeping around or using her body. This lady has brains, charisma and is loved by the people that are working around her. The competition is fierce, but she knows her game and was confident. She has this rules in work and one of them was not to sh*t where she is. It wasn’t a hard rule to follow until this hot CEO comes along.

The first time she met Hale, he ignored her. Then he grabbed her ass. Then her boss loaned her to him – meaning both of them working close together. Their chemistry is undeniable, and it wouldn’t take a lot before their spontaneously combust. She needed control, because she can’t risk losing the promotion she had been working hard on.

Hale is a mystery. One hot, sexy guy wrapped in an air of intellect and mystery. The first time they met, she already drove him crazy. He can’t seem to do right whenever she’s around. But he knew she was the woman she needed, not just in the bedroom, but for work as well. She was the only person who can do whatever was needed, however discreet it was. But more than that, he wanted her – a lot. But there’s her rules, and his secrets.

Julie A. Richman’s book Slave to Love kept me hooked and entertained in one sitting. Nothing beats a fast, sexy and romantic read with powerful characters and a woman (or women) that screams girl power!

Review originally posted on my blog

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Profile Image for Kimberly.
684 reviews35 followers
January 11, 2016
Wow, this one really surprised me in the best kind of way. Sierra Stone is a tough as nails business woman who has worked hard to be taken seriously in a male dominated world. Hale Lundstrom is a man's man who not only owns a successful company, but is also ex-military and is used to playing the cold and aloof part. But, something about Sierra throws him for a loop, he makes the wrong move on her and she lets him have it. From that point on he knows she is the one!

I loved that Sierra didn't just fall into Hale's bed, she was a heroine I could really respect. She is strong, confidant and doesn't let anyone play with her. At first I thought Hale was just another aloof, arrogant alpha, but he is so much more. Underneath it all he is sweet, kind, and thoughtful. Hale and Sierra's romance was a slow burn, they got to know each other, they teased and played around but they waited until the time was right to be intimate. I also loved that Hale learned from Sierra how to really treat a woman in the work place.

But, this is so much more than a slow burn romance, there is intrigue, deep dark secrets, corporate shenanigans, top secret meetings with the elite leaders of the world, and action! Heart pounding, people getting shot action. A huge cast of supporting characters add much needed humor, some angst and plot twist to this engaging story. This book has it all and kept me entertained from start to finish.

****ARC given in exchange for an honest review****
Profile Image for Gloria Herrera for As You Wish Reviews.
2,181 reviews63 followers
January 14, 2016
We all become slaves to something... and if we are lucky, we choose to be a slave to whatever strikes the passion in us. To some, the work they do every day of their lives sparks that passion that drives them and fulfills the need we all have to excel and do our best.

Sierra is a high achiever. She thrives in her business life and it, in turn, strikes that passion that makes her a willing slave to the "golden handcuffs" that tie her to her job. When you have a high demand job, sometimes you forget those "golden handcuffs" do not warm you at night.

Meeting entrepreneur Hale Lundstrom catches both of them by surprise. Sierra feels that spark that has been missing in her personal life for a long time. Hale is stunned silent with the realization this woman is amazingly beautiful in addition to being very intelligent and savvy. And so, the stage is set for a courtship and an amazingly thrilling story of two people who work together, but must refrain from playing together.

In this author's stupendous writing style, she weaves us a story to rival her previous bestseller with Schooner and Mia. She understands her characters psyche and what it means to fall irrevocably in love. Handcuffs come in all shapes and sizes. If they make you happy while they keep you bound to your passion, does it matter that you are bound?
Profile Image for L. Sommers.
Author 10 books80 followers
January 12, 2016
On behalf of Beneath The Covers Blog.

**Pressing my face into her cleavage, "Girls, I hope you're ready to meet me," I address the luscious nipples that have intrigued me since the King Cole Salon. Sierra laughs, "Be careful doing that or you'll poke your eye out."

HAHA, that line made me laugh.

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Slave to Love by Julie Richman. I am a big fan of Ms. Richman's writing style because she breathes "normal" existence into her characters. Her storylines are never far fetched from real life. She also creates strong female characters which I love.

Hale, geez where do I start? You instantly fall in love with him and his laidback, aloof, easy-going, charismatic, sexy-as-hell character. The way he . . . OKAY, I won't give away details of this book.
Sierra, the brilliant sales director, who takes her career very seriously, climbs the work-force ladder the right way. Without sleeping her way to the top. Then she gets railroaded by her own boss.

Those that know me know that I do NOT give spoilers so just take it from me, this is a must read by Julie Richman.
Profile Image for Amy Rogers.
182 reviews6 followers
January 14, 2016
I laughed, I cried and I fell in love. This book made me have every emotion from the time I opened the book when I laughed to the way it ended when I cried. It was all tied up in the perfect package with their story being one that I won't forget. I absolutely loved this book and everything about it. I loved Hale and his mystery around him to what made him the way he was. I loved Sierra and her no nonsense attitude. But most of all I loved the two of them together. Their build up and restraint to there relationship left me on the edge of my seat just waiting for the time for it to be ok for them to have a relationship. They are so hot, dynamic and the perfect pair. Hale is absolutely on of the best male roles that I read. He totally had my heart and when I learned his whole story I was completely taken. He was so perfect with his flaws and all. Sierra is his equal in every sense and had her own issues to get passed to be able to open herself up. They truly found themselves within each other and ultimately their peace. This book is absolutely brilliant and I can't recommend it enough! Thank you Julie for such a beautiful story!
Profile Image for Cindy Rockey-Bocz.
70 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2016
First of all I love when books are set in Austin and incorporate local businesses, watering holes and hangouts. I've heard more than one person ask "Is Central Market a real place?" Visit Austin and find out!!! :)

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Julie Richman has an amazing gift for bringing current events into her stories.

Inevitably there is always one point in a Julie Richman novel that will leave you in tears and the story of Hale and Sierra is no different. The story is flawlessly exciting, funny and will capture your heart. But throw in some mystery and a little suspense.... and the little sluts and bitches will even make you chuckle!

The wide range of emotions, ranging from laughter to great dirty parts, cheeky flirty lines and just enough angst to tug on your heart strings. This story and characters will have you believing in mermaids.

Thank you for capturing the feel of Austin 100% and thank you for including so many wonderful places.

If you haven't read a Julie Richman book, Slave To Love would be a great way to begin your love affair. -Cindy B
Profile Image for Kathy Tozzi.
239 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2016
Slave to Love By Julie Richman

I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review.

Slave to Love is the story of Sierra and Hale.
Sierra is an executive with an extremely feisty attitude. Hale is handsome CEO who is used to getting everything he wants, and he wants Sierra.
There is an intense attraction on both sides. Hale wants to mix business with pleasure, Sierra believes in professionalism. The road is bumpy to bring them together, through misunderstandings and painful memories. Both have secrets that could push them away from each other. Will faith and love be enough to bring them together? You will just have to read to find out.
The Author, Julie Richman is one of those incredible writers that once you read one of her books you just have to have the rest of them. Believe me her work is wonderful, you should give her a try and become a Slave to Love yourself.
Profile Image for Annamaria.
702 reviews11 followers
January 13, 2016
Five Fantastic Stars! Sierra is a top sales director for the company when she meets Hale. They start working together on a project and the whole time they are trying to deny their attraction. Hale is your typical sexy alpha male and very hard for her to avoid. Will they finally give in to their attraction and will their relationship ruin Sierra's chance to get further in the company? I absolutely love this story and the characters were fantastic. I thought the banter between the two was great! My favorite was the line about the "cherry"! This is a stand-alone novel and should be a must read. I look forward to reading more by this author.

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
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