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Conflicted
A standalone forbidden office romance from bestselling author Lisa Suzanne. I hate my boss. Cole Benson is demeaning, arrogant, and infuriating. So why can't I stop thinking about him? Something passes between us each time his dark eyes meet mine. Late nights and business trips push us closer together, tempting us to cross the line of our professional relationship. The problem? My husband has no idea.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2016
286 people are currently reading
666 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Suzanne
109 books3,258 followersLisa Suzanne is an Amazon Top Ten Bestselling author of swoon-worthy superstar heroes, emotional roller coasters, and all the angst. She resides in Arizona with her husband and two kids. When she's not chasing her kids, she can be found working on her latest romance book or watching reruns of Friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
September 11, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Lisa Suzanne you have me truly conflicted. Yes, you couldn’t have picked a better name to go with this book. Conflicted sounds about right especially when you are dealing with the subject of martial infidelity.
“Cole set my blood on fire—one minute I wanted to strip his clothes off and straddle him, and the next minute he made me so fucking angry that I wanted to slap him across the face. It was soul-crushing passion that I felt for him, and even when I hated the hell out of him, I never really disliked him.”
Before I begin my review, I want to let you know that I very rarely read books that deals with the subject matter of infidelity. Why? I would always feel bad for the other party that is getting lied and cheated to. It breaks my heart. No person should be made a fool of. Although this book is of fiction, Lisa Suzanne writes Conflicted in such a raw realistic way that your hearts will be racing and at the same time furious at the heroine for her choices. But these choices are of her own. They are her flaws, her truth, her secret, her lies, and her want. There is no perfect person. We are all human. And so Lisa Suzanne will capture every vulnerability, heartbreak, confusion, and passion with her fervid and detailed prose.
If you are not a fan of cheating, then this book is not for you. If you are brave enough to read this book and explore the mindset of a woman who willingly knew the consequences of her choice, then go forth and read this book. Conflicted honestly leaves me conflicted because in the manner of how the heroine, Lucy Clearly decided to go about her affair. Is she at fault? Absolutely. Is Cole Benson, the man she is having an affair at fault too? Absolutely. Is the husband at fault? There will be readers who would think he is partly to blame because he didn’t give his wife the affection and attention she needed so it excuses her for her action. And there are readers like me who are conflicted in the sense of how none of this drama should of happen in the first place if there was honesty and communication. But hey, we are human and we all make decisions that will shape and guide us.
“It all happened much too quickly as his body powered into mine with urgency. The lust and desire between us had been pent up for far too long, pushing us both toward our climaxes nearly instantaneously. It was too good, too sweet feeling him move against me, inside me.”
This is one story where I find it hard to write a review because this book is told in the perspective of the heroine Lucy Clearly. Lucy finds herself in a marriage that was stagnant. Her husband and her were like roommates since he was always busy working. And so when Lucy gets assigned to her new boss, Cole, she felt a strong pull to him. She knew it was wrong to lust and want him because she was married but at the same time she wanted him. So when Lucy finally crosses that line of betrayal, does she have guilt for her action? Or does she feel conflicted for not feeling guilt at all?
“John was a good man. Everything he’d done had been for me, and I’d been blind to it, lost in my own selfish thoughts that he was choosing work over me when he’d been putting me first all along. He deserved better than me. He deserved a faithful woman who would always put him first. When we’d said our vows to each other, I thought I was that person. I’d worked hard to be that person, and I probably would’ve kept being her if Cole Benson hadn’t stepped foot into my life. It was too late now. I’d navigated a course that I couldn’t return from. I’d strayed too far from my husband and from our marriage, and I deserved every cut and crack that slashed my heart.”
Yes, cheating is very wrong. We all know it but the way Lisa Suzanne wrote this story allows readers like myself to understand the mindset of Lucy as to why she crossed that line to have an affair. Whether you agree or disagree with Lucy, it allowed each of the characters to grow in a sense. View their own faults and imperfections. Nothing is hidden. Every lie, deceit, secret and truth are exposed in such a raw gripping manner. Conflicted is more than a romance story for me. It is a story of lessons and consequences. It is a story of growth. It is a story of love. It is a story of life. So if you are ready to get conflicted and be lost in a story where happiness, sadness, and passion are all heartrendingly intertwined then I would definitely recommend you to read this book.
Lisa Suzanne
Lisa Suzanne you have me truly conflicted. Yes, you couldn’t have picked a better name to go with this book. Conflicted sounds about right especially when you are dealing with the subject of martial infidelity.
“Cole set my blood on fire—one minute I wanted to strip his clothes off and straddle him, and the next minute he made me so fucking angry that I wanted to slap him across the face. It was soul-crushing passion that I felt for him, and even when I hated the hell out of him, I never really disliked him.”Before I begin my review, I want to let you know that I very rarely read books that deals with the subject matter of infidelity. Why? I would always feel bad for the other party that is getting lied and cheated to. It breaks my heart. No person should be made a fool of. Although this book is of fiction, Lisa Suzanne writes Conflicted in such a raw realistic way that your hearts will be racing and at the same time furious at the heroine for her choices. But these choices are of her own. They are her flaws, her truth, her secret, her lies, and her want. There is no perfect person. We are all human. And so Lisa Suzanne will capture every vulnerability, heartbreak, confusion, and passion with her fervid and detailed prose.
If you are not a fan of cheating, then this book is not for you. If you are brave enough to read this book and explore the mindset of a woman who willingly knew the consequences of her choice, then go forth and read this book. Conflicted honestly leaves me conflicted because in the manner of how the heroine, Lucy Clearly decided to go about her affair. Is she at fault? Absolutely. Is Cole Benson, the man she is having an affair at fault too? Absolutely. Is the husband at fault? There will be readers who would think he is partly to blame because he didn’t give his wife the affection and attention she needed so it excuses her for her action. And there are readers like me who are conflicted in the sense of how none of this drama should of happen in the first place if there was honesty and communication. But hey, we are human and we all make decisions that will shape and guide us.
“It all happened much too quickly as his body powered into mine with urgency. The lust and desire between us had been pent up for far too long, pushing us both toward our climaxes nearly instantaneously. It was too good, too sweet feeling him move against me, inside me.”This is one story where I find it hard to write a review because this book is told in the perspective of the heroine Lucy Clearly. Lucy finds herself in a marriage that was stagnant. Her husband and her were like roommates since he was always busy working. And so when Lucy gets assigned to her new boss, Cole, she felt a strong pull to him. She knew it was wrong to lust and want him because she was married but at the same time she wanted him. So when Lucy finally crosses that line of betrayal, does she have guilt for her action? Or does she feel conflicted for not feeling guilt at all?
“John was a good man. Everything he’d done had been for me, and I’d been blind to it, lost in my own selfish thoughts that he was choosing work over me when he’d been putting me first all along. He deserved better than me. He deserved a faithful woman who would always put him first. When we’d said our vows to each other, I thought I was that person. I’d worked hard to be that person, and I probably would’ve kept being her if Cole Benson hadn’t stepped foot into my life. It was too late now. I’d navigated a course that I couldn’t return from. I’d strayed too far from my husband and from our marriage, and I deserved every cut and crack that slashed my heart.”Yes, cheating is very wrong. We all know it but the way Lisa Suzanne wrote this story allows readers like myself to understand the mindset of Lucy as to why she crossed that line to have an affair. Whether you agree or disagree with Lucy, it allowed each of the characters to grow in a sense. View their own faults and imperfections. Nothing is hidden. Every lie, deceit, secret and truth are exposed in such a raw gripping manner. Conflicted is more than a romance story for me. It is a story of lessons and consequences. It is a story of growth. It is a story of love. It is a story of life. So if you are ready to get conflicted and be lost in a story where happiness, sadness, and passion are all heartrendingly intertwined then I would definitely recommend you to read this book.
Lisa Suzanne
October 30, 2016
I cannot believe I made it through the entire story. I hated both of the main characters, but still held out for a great redeeming asshole ending. By the ending I still didn't like either character enough to care.
September 12, 2016
I will start off with a little disclaimer which you can also find in the blurb: There is cheating. YES. In every single way possible. If you can't handle cheating in books, this one might not be for you.
Okay, now that we got that out of the way I will say this: cheating/love triangles give me anxiety if written well, and boy, Lisa Suzanne had me sweating! I was an emotional MESS and I simply could NOT put down this book! LITERALLY. I was harassing the author while reading because I felt like I was going insane! I was stressed out beyond belief and in dire need of knowing how everything would unfold.
To make matters worse, my husband picked the WORST SCENE EVER to tell me that we were going out and everyone was waiting on me to get in the car. Suffice it to say I took my iPad with me and read the entire car ride and when we got to our friend's house, I discretely (I'm sure I was not that discrete) read some more on my phone! Truly an addicting story line.
Well, anyway...
Cole. Man, he sure was infuriating at times but good God, he was delicious too! The way he treated Lucy at first had me wanting to smack him and thinking that if I had been Lucy, I would've quit my job and went home and cried myself to sleep! LOL! But then he had moments where I knew it was all an act to keep Lucy at arm's length.
The chemistry and sexual tension between Cole and Lucy truly SIZZLED — Lawd, it was HOT. I wanted them together, yet I was stressing because — OH YEAH! — LUCY WAS MARRIED!! Now, I wasn't a fan of her husband for multiple reasons which you'll find out for yourself once you read this book, but the secrets and sneaking around had me stressing. Part of me wanted her husband to be guilty of everything Lucy was suspecting. I wanted him to be a very bad guy. I wanted him to make it easy for Lucy to walk away.
And then, the truth came out.
My heart hurt.
I was emotionally unstable as I kept turning the pages — OMG.
This was NOT HAPPENING.
Oh...but it was.
Lisa Suzanne just about became the death of me! It reached a point where I would not shut up about this book. Heck, my husband even knew everything that was happening! Of course, here I was telling him while flailing like a maniac, walking around in circles and he was just sitting there...laughing. Yep. My husband was laughing at my hysterics!
Like I said, I really don't handle all that well (if you couldn't tell) love triangles and/or cheating in books which is why I rarely read them! But being the huge fan of Lisa Suzanne's that I am, I simply could not miss out on this book! Man, I'm sure glad I read it though! If you're in the mood for an angst-driven novel with a happy ending (yes—otherwise, I'd be dead on the floor!) then this one is for you!
REVIEWED FOR HEA BOOKSHELF
Okay, now that we got that out of the way I will say this: cheating/love triangles give me anxiety if written well, and boy, Lisa Suzanne had me sweating! I was an emotional MESS and I simply could NOT put down this book! LITERALLY. I was harassing the author while reading because I felt like I was going insane! I was stressed out beyond belief and in dire need of knowing how everything would unfold.
To make matters worse, my husband picked the WORST SCENE EVER to tell me that we were going out and everyone was waiting on me to get in the car. Suffice it to say I took my iPad with me and read the entire car ride and when we got to our friend's house, I discretely (I'm sure I was not that discrete) read some more on my phone! Truly an addicting story line.
Well, anyway...
Cole. Man, he sure was infuriating at times but good God, he was delicious too! The way he treated Lucy at first had me wanting to smack him and thinking that if I had been Lucy, I would've quit my job and went home and cried myself to sleep! LOL! But then he had moments where I knew it was all an act to keep Lucy at arm's length.
The chemistry and sexual tension between Cole and Lucy truly SIZZLED — Lawd, it was HOT. I wanted them together, yet I was stressing because — OH YEAH! — LUCY WAS MARRIED!! Now, I wasn't a fan of her husband for multiple reasons which you'll find out for yourself once you read this book, but the secrets and sneaking around had me stressing. Part of me wanted her husband to be guilty of everything Lucy was suspecting. I wanted him to be a very bad guy. I wanted him to make it easy for Lucy to walk away.
And then, the truth came out.
My heart hurt.
I was emotionally unstable as I kept turning the pages — OMG.
This was NOT HAPPENING.
Oh...but it was.
Lisa Suzanne just about became the death of me! It reached a point where I would not shut up about this book. Heck, my husband even knew everything that was happening! Of course, here I was telling him while flailing like a maniac, walking around in circles and he was just sitting there...laughing. Yep. My husband was laughing at my hysterics!
Like I said, I really don't handle all that well (if you couldn't tell) love triangles and/or cheating in books which is why I rarely read them! But being the huge fan of Lisa Suzanne's that I am, I simply could not miss out on this book! Man, I'm sure glad I read it though! If you're in the mood for an angst-driven novel with a happy ending (yes—otherwise, I'd be dead on the floor!) then this one is for you!
REVIEWED FOR HEA BOOKSHELF
June 23, 2017
Updated Review: apparently I shouldn't read a book before reading the warnings.
I get that, hell I applaud that. I DID read the warnings, and that is WHY I read it.
I wanted some emotional angst cheater book that would break my heart.
I didn't get my heart-broken, I got mediocre writing, too much inner dialogue, and a wife who, I feel, didn't try hard enough to water her own grass. THAT is why I gave it 1 star.
While it may seem that I was "narrow-minded", I rated this book as a whole. It wasn't solely because the heroine was a coward.
Anyyourinsultsarelame,
She had a crush on her boss, she cyber stalked him before he even set in his office chair, and she let him treat her like grade A shit, but that didn't ruin the crush.
My point is, if her boss gave her the time of day, she was game. We knew that, she knew that. If she really wanted to make her marriage work, she would have removed herself from the situation.
Which she didn't, if she did there'd be no story, I guess I can read cheating, just no premeditated cheating?
That's not even what pissed me off, what got me was she was a coward.
So you cheated, that sucks, you f*cked up. MAN UP. Or in this case woman up. THIS is why I didn't like the book. While cheating is not my go too, I do read them, and I just felt this was all kinds of f*cked up. It wasn't even heartbreaking, just annoying.
The reason I don't like cheating books because they break my heart not because I want to punch the heroine in the face. '
And I really wanted to punch her....
Note: I received a message about reading warnings and yadda yadda, So I redid this review. I hope this satisfies the person who shall not be named in why I rated this book 1 star. Happy reading
I get that, hell I applaud that. I DID read the warnings, and that is WHY I read it.
I wanted some emotional angst cheater book that would break my heart.
I didn't get my heart-broken, I got mediocre writing, too much inner dialogue, and a wife who, I feel, didn't try hard enough to water her own grass. THAT is why I gave it 1 star.
While it may seem that I was "narrow-minded", I rated this book as a whole. It wasn't solely because the heroine was a coward.
Anyyourinsultsarelame,
She had a crush on her boss, she cyber stalked him before he even set in his office chair, and she let him treat her like grade A shit, but that didn't ruin the crush.
My point is, if her boss gave her the time of day, she was game. We knew that, she knew that. If she really wanted to make her marriage work, she would have removed herself from the situation.
Which she didn't, if she did there'd be no story, I guess I can read cheating, just no premeditated cheating?
That's not even what pissed me off, what got me was she was a coward.
So you cheated, that sucks, you f*cked up. MAN UP. Or in this case woman up. THIS is why I didn't like the book. While cheating is not my go too, I do read them, and I just felt this was all kinds of f*cked up. It wasn't even heartbreaking, just annoying.
The reason I don't like cheating books because they break my heart not because I want to punch the heroine in the face. '
And I really wanted to punch her....
Note: I received a message about reading warnings and yadda yadda, So I redid this review. I hope this satisfies the person who shall not be named in why I rated this book 1 star. Happy reading
February 7, 2017
Read the blurb carefully. This is a novel about a married woman who falls in lust with her new boss. I read that but I didn't like the reality.
DNF at 33%.
Lucy Cleary is the executive assistant to the CEO of Benson Industries. When her boos retires he passes the business on to his son, Cole Benson and he becomes Lucy's new boss. On her first day working for Cole Lucy is late due to additional traffic due to the inclement weather. Cole accepts no excuses and reprimands her when she calls him Cole, it is all Mr Benson and Ms Cleary in the office. Now I work in a professional practice in the UK - probably one of the most formal work environments (yep, we still wear suits) and no-one, I mean no-one, is referred to as Mr, Mrs or Ms. When I joined my firm 27 years ago as a trainee I was told that everyone from CEO to post-room trainee is called by their first name. So this formality from a 20-something CEO did not ring true to me.
Lucy has been married to John for three years. He refuses to go to her family events, even his god-daughter's birthday party; he barely speaks to her; he works late evenings and weekends; and he is constantly glued to his iPad. Now I get that Lucy's marriage isn't bad, just lonely and that can be the most difficult marriage to leave, because there's nothing really wrong, but still after only three years of marriage why put up with a monosyllabic oaf who pays you no attention?
But my biggest problem is Cole. I didn't like him. I don't understand why he felt the need to be such an arrogant pig to Lucy (or indeed why she liked him, other than his good looks). It seemed as though he was either going to sleep with someone else in order to avoid getting too close to Lucy, either that or pretend to in order to make Lucy jealous - it felt immature and I have too many other books on my TBR pile to bother with something I'm not enjoying.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
DNF at 33%.
Lucy Cleary is the executive assistant to the CEO of Benson Industries. When her boos retires he passes the business on to his son, Cole Benson and he becomes Lucy's new boss. On her first day working for Cole Lucy is late due to additional traffic due to the inclement weather. Cole accepts no excuses and reprimands her when she calls him Cole, it is all Mr Benson and Ms Cleary in the office. Now I work in a professional practice in the UK - probably one of the most formal work environments (yep, we still wear suits) and no-one, I mean no-one, is referred to as Mr, Mrs or Ms. When I joined my firm 27 years ago as a trainee I was told that everyone from CEO to post-room trainee is called by their first name. So this formality from a 20-something CEO did not ring true to me.
Lucy has been married to John for three years. He refuses to go to her family events, even his god-daughter's birthday party; he barely speaks to her; he works late evenings and weekends; and he is constantly glued to his iPad. Now I get that Lucy's marriage isn't bad, just lonely and that can be the most difficult marriage to leave, because there's nothing really wrong, but still after only three years of marriage why put up with a monosyllabic oaf who pays you no attention?
But my biggest problem is Cole. I didn't like him. I don't understand why he felt the need to be such an arrogant pig to Lucy (or indeed why she liked him, other than his good looks). It seemed as though he was either going to sleep with someone else in order to avoid getting too close to Lucy, either that or pretend to in order to make Lucy jealous - it felt immature and I have too many other books on my TBR pile to bother with something I'm not enjoying.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
September 12, 2016
I was given this book for honest review. And to be honest it was ok. I'm not a big fan of her being married when they get together. That was my biggest hang up with the book. Cole is an ass and honestly its like oh well i'm an ass because I have feelings for you. Lucy was weak in my opinion. She wanted Cole but it was never a good time to talk to your husband?? I mean seriously. If you want someone else then be honest and upfront. Then when she finally talks to her husband she goes to Cole and he's screwing someone else. His excuse? Oh well we weren't exclusive cause your married so you cant hold me having sex with the chick against me. Book just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, it is very well written and the story flowed really well. At times it was intense and the anticipation that was growing throughout the book was just spell binding and the story held my attention so much so, I read it in a day.
When Cole Benson takes over from his father as CEO of Benson industries Lucy Cleary did not expect him to be quite as ruthless, arrogant and cold - so unlike his father whom she had worked for previously. She is very good at her job and she loved it, but coming into work every morning to face Cole Benson and his abrupt manner was beginning to take it's toll. At times she hated him, but at times she was so attracted to him it was scary. He was one gorgeous, sexy hunk of a man, but he was her boss, and she was married. The build up to their relationship was a joy to experience and the author takes you on a journey of twists and turns, up's and downs, that at first you don't know what road it will take you down, and just when you think you have worked it all out, she flips it all over and deals the unexpected. There is lots of angst, lots of frustration, times that were sad and times when my heart felt full. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable book and recommended read!!
When Cole Benson takes over from his father as CEO of Benson industries Lucy Cleary did not expect him to be quite as ruthless, arrogant and cold - so unlike his father whom she had worked for previously. She is very good at her job and she loved it, but coming into work every morning to face Cole Benson and his abrupt manner was beginning to take it's toll. At times she hated him, but at times she was so attracted to him it was scary. He was one gorgeous, sexy hunk of a man, but he was her boss, and she was married. The build up to their relationship was a joy to experience and the author takes you on a journey of twists and turns, up's and downs, that at first you don't know what road it will take you down, and just when you think you have worked it all out, she flips it all over and deals the unexpected. There is lots of angst, lots of frustration, times that were sad and times when my heart felt full. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable book and recommended read!!
May 2, 2020
Meh...
September 20, 2016
This book isn't going to be for everyone because the underlying plot is being married and falling for your boss. That being said I had no problem with it because nothing plot wise can bug me. I found that plot was very entertaining and steamy.
The characters were……. Confusing for a lack of better words. Not in a bad way just in a way. I found that I hated Cole til about 40% and then we see the real him, the reasoning behind things and then his words make me misty eyed. Lucy as the title said conflicted, I felt that at times but then at times I think she always knew what she was going to do. I liked her as the story went on because sometimes married women have those feelings. She was smart and funny at times and I found that enjoyable.
The plot will be what will turn some people away from this book because it can be a sore subject or because they don't realize that it fiction and will take it too much to heart. I found that while I don't condone what she did, that the struggle that she was faced with was real, it was understandable. I really enjoyed it and am glad I read it.
Overall I think was a book worth reading and like this authors other books it was well written and had amazing dialogue. I can't wait to see what she will come up with next! 5 Stars #2OCCJD
The characters were……. Confusing for a lack of better words. Not in a bad way just in a way. I found that I hated Cole til about 40% and then we see the real him, the reasoning behind things and then his words make me misty eyed. Lucy as the title said conflicted, I felt that at times but then at times I think she always knew what she was going to do. I liked her as the story went on because sometimes married women have those feelings. She was smart and funny at times and I found that enjoyable.
The plot will be what will turn some people away from this book because it can be a sore subject or because they don't realize that it fiction and will take it too much to heart. I found that while I don't condone what she did, that the struggle that she was faced with was real, it was understandable. I really enjoyed it and am glad I read it.
Overall I think was a book worth reading and like this authors other books it was well written and had amazing dialogue. I can't wait to see what she will come up with next! 5 Stars #2OCCJD
February 16, 2017
Well, I'm definitely conflicted about how to rate this book.
I really liked it until 50% or so, Cole was intense, the tension palpable. Cheating doesn't necessarily puts me off if I feel like it's justified and unavoidable, but well, from now on read carefully, it may contain some spoilers...
Lucy cheating on her husband was one thing. The connection between Lucy and Cole didn't feel that strong but the sexual tension did. It wasn't rushed and I was pretty sure she was already in love with him by then. And let's be honest, John acted like a roommate from hell, not a husband.
But then the cat is out of the bag and Lucy thinks she definitely doesn't love Cole yet. Hm. And then it turns out Cole's been cheating too and that's not even a big deal?! I liked the first half of the book too much to DNF at that point, but... You catch my drift, right.
I really liked it until 50% or so, Cole was intense, the tension palpable. Cheating doesn't necessarily puts me off if I feel like it's justified and unavoidable, but well, from now on read carefully, it may contain some spoilers...
Lucy cheating on her husband was one thing. The connection between Lucy and Cole didn't feel that strong but the sexual tension did. It wasn't rushed and I was pretty sure she was already in love with him by then. And let's be honest, John acted like a roommate from hell, not a husband.
But then the cat is out of the bag and Lucy thinks she definitely doesn't love Cole yet. Hm. And then it turns out Cole's been cheating too and that's not even a big deal?! I liked the first half of the book too much to DNF at that point, but... You catch my drift, right.
January 18, 2018
A bit conflicted but written well.
I'm starring for the writing. Lisa did a wonderful job with how the story unfolded and the way the words flow. It's personally not my cup of tea because I don't really dig cheating romances.
I'm starring for the writing. Lisa did a wonderful job with how the story unfolded and the way the words flow. It's personally not my cup of tea because I don't really dig cheating romances.
September 12, 2016
This was one of those books that I decided I wanted to read without knowing anything about it. I sat down to read it and noticed this quote on the cover "How can I call him my boyfriend when I already have a husband?" At first I was like no oh there's going to be cheating. Cheating in a book is not something that automatically puts me off the story but for it to work for me I need it to flow and fit into the story. This one flowed and fit well.
Lucy is in a marriage that at some point lost it's love. Her and her husband, John, are just existing with each other, the spark is gone. Lucy's is a executive assistance at Benson Industries. Her boss Jack is retiring and her new boss is his son Cole. Cole is cocky and a little bit annoying. I didn't really like Cole at first but I warmed up to him. There is attraction between Cole and Lucy. They both struggle with their feeling and attraction. It is very well written and you can feel the emotional struggles that the characters are having. At points I was a little frustrated with the characters but overall I enjoyed reading it.
Lucy is in a marriage that at some point lost it's love. Her and her husband, John, are just existing with each other, the spark is gone. Lucy's is a executive assistance at Benson Industries. Her boss Jack is retiring and her new boss is his son Cole. Cole is cocky and a little bit annoying. I didn't really like Cole at first but I warmed up to him. There is attraction between Cole and Lucy. They both struggle with their feeling and attraction. It is very well written and you can feel the emotional struggles that the characters are having. At points I was a little frustrated with the characters but overall I enjoyed reading it.
September 26, 2016
4.5 Stars
This book contains cheating and she's also married!! Cheating isn't a hard limit for me BUT cheating in marriage is a big no no, BUT omg this book!!! I was hooked from the first few pages, I love angst in a book and Conflicted certainly fed my addiction.
Lucy is unhappy in her marriage to John, their marriage seemed stale and was definitely in a rut, she did try on several occasions to get that spark back but all attempts failed, then enter her hot,demanding and completely arrogant boss Cole. She finds herself getting the hots for him, I mean, who wouldn't? He treats her so bad but we do find out why?!
I really felt like I shouldn't enjoy this book due to the taboo subject but I loved every single word written. The sexual chemistry was off the chart hot between Lucy and Cole, I liked the way the character development grew within the book and as usual Lisa Suzanne's writing was brilliant and I really wouldn't hesitate to recommend this author and her books.
This book contains cheating and she's also married!! Cheating isn't a hard limit for me BUT cheating in marriage is a big no no, BUT omg this book!!! I was hooked from the first few pages, I love angst in a book and Conflicted certainly fed my addiction.
Lucy is unhappy in her marriage to John, their marriage seemed stale and was definitely in a rut, she did try on several occasions to get that spark back but all attempts failed, then enter her hot,demanding and completely arrogant boss Cole. She finds herself getting the hots for him, I mean, who wouldn't? He treats her so bad but we do find out why?!
I really felt like I shouldn't enjoy this book due to the taboo subject but I loved every single word written. The sexual chemistry was off the chart hot between Lucy and Cole, I liked the way the character development grew within the book and as usual Lisa Suzanne's writing was brilliant and I really wouldn't hesitate to recommend this author and her books.
January 9, 2017
I'm not a fan of one person pov stories but a story like this ? NEEDS two pov's...
I'm not a fan of one person pov stories but a story like this ? NEEDS two pov's., you've got a story where a woman is cheat her way to a new life w/the almost cliché story my prick of a boss? We NEED his pov too,instead you spend most of your time in her head w/nothing but her inner ramblings and insecurities and I wanted out!!! Without Cole's pov all we have to go on is her impressions and they weren't enjoyable to me in the slightest,I've been where she in marriage wise and stuck it out a HELL of a lot longer than 3 years,a lot longer but then again if a Cole had crossed my path who knows but for me she just seemed like a boring,passive aggressive doormat and I came to loathe..
Just my opinion and experience... You might like it many others seem to,I'm just glad it was KU and on,y some time was wasted and not money...
I'm not a fan of one person pov stories but a story like this ? NEEDS two pov's., you've got a story where a woman is cheat her way to a new life w/the almost cliché story my prick of a boss? We NEED his pov too,instead you spend most of your time in her head w/nothing but her inner ramblings and insecurities and I wanted out!!! Without Cole's pov all we have to go on is her impressions and they weren't enjoyable to me in the slightest,I've been where she in marriage wise and stuck it out a HELL of a lot longer than 3 years,a lot longer but then again if a Cole had crossed my path who knows but for me she just seemed like a boring,passive aggressive doormat and I came to loathe..
Just my opinion and experience... You might like it many others seem to,I'm just glad it was KU and on,y some time was wasted and not money...
consider-later
August 4, 2016
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April 30, 2017
I knew I'd need to rein in my judgment about extramarital affairs before beginning this story. I tried. Really tried. But, I couldn't empathize with Lucy feeling torn between her husband and her lover. I don't care how unsympathetic her husband appeared to be, Lucy should have had the "talk" with John, filed for divorce, then pursued her insta-lust with Cole. She straddled the infidelity fence way too long. This story would have been just as enjoyable if she had dumped John before screwing Cole. And, Cole should have held firm on his no married women policy, not to mention the sexual harassment issues raised by sexing his assistant.
October 2, 2016
No no no
Under NO circumstance is cheating on a spouse is okay. I realize in life people are tempted due to their issues may even put themselves in a compromising situation but I have no respect for anyone who cheats. I wish I had realized that this book went there because I would have never purchased it. As soon as she cheats I stopped reading what a piece of crap this book is and it's cheating characters.
Under NO circumstance is cheating on a spouse is okay. I realize in life people are tempted due to their issues may even put themselves in a compromising situation but I have no respect for anyone who cheats. I wish I had realized that this book went there because I would have never purchased it. As soon as she cheats I stopped reading what a piece of crap this book is and it's cheating characters.
October 31, 2016
I was a little "Conflicted" with this book. I'm not a fan of cheating stories so maybe I shouldn't have read it in the first place. Honestly, I thought both her husband and the other guy treated her like crap and walked all over her. Her husband didn't show her any affection, love, or interest and Cole ran so hot and cold I couldn't figure him out either. The writing was good I just didn't care for the characters in the book and the cheating.
May 3, 2017
This is one HOT. I wasn't sure I could get through it because of the cheating, but then there is OW part that makes me mad, but is just hypocritical of me to judge Cole. Anyway, this is the prefect review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Read
November 4, 2016DNF
I just became bored, sorry. Nothing seems to interest me after my last read. Nothing bad aimed at the author
I just became bored, sorry. Nothing seems to interest me after my last read. Nothing bad aimed at the author
December 18, 2016
Wow, I hate cheating... yet love my triangles... the way this story was going, well it didn't exactly lead me the right direction...what the "problem" really is. Enjoyed thoroughly!
March 8, 2020
The title of this book is pretty fitting for numerous reasons...one of which is I am totally conflicted on how/what to rate it. I knew the basic premise going in, so I don't necessarily have a problem with the cheating stuff...I knew it was coming, and if it was done well I could get past it. However, I'm not sure it was executed the best way it could have been. I really didn't care for Lucy, Cole, or John for most of the book. The reasoning for John's distance ended up being really strange to me...just because he was working a lot and was so focused on surprising Lucy with his promotion and the ring, I don't think that means he would totally ignore her for months and not want to be intimate with her. They were basically roommates for the longest time and then all of a sudden "It was all for you! I wanted to get you this ring that you don't actually want!" It just seemed ridiculous to me. I could get on board with Cole and Lucy together, but didn't like how careless they were about it, and how long it took her to come clean with her husband. I also didn't like how after getting this big bonus and win the award she quit her job and left Cole.
Overall, it was ok...lots of things I didn't care for, but some stuff I did like. The sex scenes were steamy and plentiful. I mostly liked the ending, but think it took too long to get there.
Overall, it was ok...lots of things I didn't care for, but some stuff I did like. The sex scenes were steamy and plentiful. I mostly liked the ending, but think it took too long to get there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2021
DNF - forced myself to get to 28%.
So I hate cheating in real life and even though I know it's fictional, I try to avoid it in books too as it just annoys me. However I was in the mood for this kind of trope and the blurb sounded like it could've given it justice. I don't really like to write bad reviews for books but this one seriously disappointed me.
The main F lead was just straight up annoying and I didn't feel like there was any kind of justification for why she cheated. It's made out that her husband doesn't pay her any attention etc, yet it doesn't appear that she puts in much effort from her side either. And the minute she sees someone more attractive, powerful, and rich (M lead), she literally sets out to cheat and mentions numerous times that she wants that to happen, even though he probably treats her worse than her actual husband. If there had been some kind of emotional affair before it I might have understood it as I get that she was looking for attention, given she's not getting it at home, but it just seems like all she wants to do is cheat.
Not sure if I'll go back to it to find out if the plot redeems itself, but as of the moment I won't be.
So I hate cheating in real life and even though I know it's fictional, I try to avoid it in books too as it just annoys me. However I was in the mood for this kind of trope and the blurb sounded like it could've given it justice. I don't really like to write bad reviews for books but this one seriously disappointed me.
The main F lead was just straight up annoying and I didn't feel like there was any kind of justification for why she cheated. It's made out that her husband doesn't pay her any attention etc, yet it doesn't appear that she puts in much effort from her side either. And the minute she sees someone more attractive, powerful, and rich (M lead), she literally sets out to cheat and mentions numerous times that she wants that to happen, even though he probably treats her worse than her actual husband. If there had been some kind of emotional affair before it I might have understood it as I get that she was looking for attention, given she's not getting it at home, but it just seems like all she wants to do is cheat.
Not sure if I'll go back to it to find out if the plot redeems itself, but as of the moment I won't be.
March 23, 2017
Talk about complicated. It's too bad John wasn't making her happy. It's tough when she wanted to make her marriage work but their relationship wasn't top priority. I wish she'd have waited before jumping into more with Cole as John shouldn't ever be the second choice but I do comprehend her reasoning behind it. Women who are appreciated and happy with their spouses plus have their pleasure needs taken cared of don't tend to stray but it does take two to tango. Neither of them should have married, they weren't meant for that serious of commitment.
I hope John realizes where he needs to make improvements and finds the right person he cannot help but want to spend as much time with as possible, someone he continues a friendship with plus romance.
Lucy found the one, I don't condone how her and Cole handled any of the start of their relationship. I much prefer how it went after her divorce was finalized. Then it was healthy for both involved.
I'm also glad that it turned out she was what cole needed too.
I hope John realizes where he needs to make improvements and finds the right person he cannot help but want to spend as much time with as possible, someone he continues a friendship with plus romance.
Lucy found the one, I don't condone how her and Cole handled any of the start of their relationship. I much prefer how it went after her divorce was finalized. Then it was healthy for both involved.
I'm also glad that it turned out she was what cole needed too.
March 7, 2020
I don’t read books that touch on infidelity much or like at all but I gave it a shot. To be honest I found her character to be one dimensional and the plot not very interesting. She was so consumed with Cole. Obsessively consumed. Some of her inner dialogue showed how low her self esteem was. Some conversations were just really unrealistic. Or borderline BS that I would never put up with. Main character needed more.
Sorry y’all. I’ve had a few drinks and it’s past midnight. This just wasn’t for me but I’ve read reviews on books that were hated that ended up being some of my favorites. We all like different things. You might like this. So give it a shot (:
& to the author. Please keep writing. I’ll try again when I’m sober😔 I’m just in my feels tonight.
Sorry y’all. I’ve had a few drinks and it’s past midnight. This just wasn’t for me but I’ve read reviews on books that were hated that ended up being some of my favorites. We all like different things. You might like this. So give it a shot (:
& to the author. Please keep writing. I’ll try again when I’m sober😔 I’m just in my feels tonight.
August 25, 2017
I read this book awhile ago and am wanting to add a book review here.
"As I climbed into bed beside my already-sleeping husband who hadn't even bothered to kiss me goodnight, I couldn't help but think what a night with Cole might be like. Just one night."
When the professional relationship crosses over in Lucy's personal life she has a major decision to stay in her complacent marriage or have an affair with her hot boss Cole...
This story is crazy, conflicting good that I remember devouring it needing to know what decision Lucy was going to make and if it would leave her in the dust all alone!
"As I climbed into bed beside my already-sleeping husband who hadn't even bothered to kiss me goodnight, I couldn't help but think what a night with Cole might be like. Just one night."
When the professional relationship crosses over in Lucy's personal life she has a major decision to stay in her complacent marriage or have an affair with her hot boss Cole...
This story is crazy, conflicting good that I remember devouring it needing to know what decision Lucy was going to make and if it would leave her in the dust all alone!
November 2, 2017
Great read and book title
The storyline captivating and very steamy sex scenes for sure. This was a story about a women who married the wrong guy and married for complacency. A second chance at relationship. Didn't like the part when she caught him with another women though even though there relationship was not labeled and that she was still married. Except he loved her but pulled such a lousy behavior. 4 star and not five cause I think he should've did more groveling. No mentioned on who he was with while they're separated looking happy. That part was left unanswered. Totally recommend this book for sure.
The storyline captivating and very steamy sex scenes for sure. This was a story about a women who married the wrong guy and married for complacency. A second chance at relationship. Didn't like the part when she caught him with another women though even though there relationship was not labeled and that she was still married. Except he loved her but pulled such a lousy behavior. 4 star and not five cause I think he should've did more groveling. No mentioned on who he was with while they're separated looking happy. That part was left unanswered. Totally recommend this book for sure.
April 4, 2018
Perfect title
This is the first book I've read by Lisa Suzanne.
It was a good read. Had very interesting thought out characters. The title of the book speaks volumes to what they felt throughout the book. And myself as a reader. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect so I kept an open mind, and I'm glad that I did. Cole and Lucy struggled throughout and survived in the end.
My only hangup was I would've liked to have had some insight into Cole, From his POV. Also an insight on what their life looked like later down the road past 2 months.
Good read, would recommend to others.
This is the first book I've read by Lisa Suzanne.
It was a good read. Had very interesting thought out characters. The title of the book speaks volumes to what they felt throughout the book. And myself as a reader. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect so I kept an open mind, and I'm glad that I did. Cole and Lucy struggled throughout and survived in the end.
My only hangup was I would've liked to have had some insight into Cole, From his POV. Also an insight on what their life looked like later down the road past 2 months.
Good read, would recommend to others.
August 19, 2023
I found this book to be steamy, sexy and believe it or not very close to real world possibilities - at least the relationship between Lucy and Cole. He’s her new boss taking over for his dad who recently decided to retire. Lucy knew her place in the office with the previous Mr. Benson but the newer younger Benson is giving her a run for her money in more ways than one. Lucy finds herself attracted to Cole in more ways than one but the problem is she’s married.
There were parts of this book were I was rooting for Cole and Lucy and parts where I wanted to cry. I stumbled upon this book since I had read the Vegas Aces series and Vegas heat series. I loved it!!!
There were parts of this book were I was rooting for Cole and Lucy and parts where I wanted to cry. I stumbled upon this book since I had read the Vegas Aces series and Vegas heat series. I loved it!!!
September 15, 2016
I am conflicted on how to rate Conflicted. I like it, but I don't like its 2 leads. The sex is fairly hot, but it's not mind blowing. The story itself, though, is realistic, and that's why I have to give it 4 stars as opposed to the 3 stars I was inclined to give it at first. I don't have an unhappy marriage so I can't exactly say how realistic it is, but it felt authentic and Lisa didn't shy away from letting us in on the inner thoughts of 2 people engaging in an adulterous affair.
Lucy is unhappily married to John, her husband, who hasn't touched her in so long that she has forgotten about what sex feels like. He's completely focused on his job, to the exclusion of his wife and their marriage. He doesn't initiate sex, he brushes off her attempts to initiate it, and he never even tells her loves her anymore, he barely even talks to her at all. So, if anyone is ripe for an affair, it's Lucy, a neglected, unhappy, married woman. Her boss, the CEO of Benson Industries, is retiring, and his son Cole is taking over for his father. This makes Lucy Cole's new assistant. It's Cole whom Lucy will ultimately fall for and cheat on her husband with.
From the very beginning, though, Lucy dislikes Cole. He's rude, dismissive, even demeaning, toward her. But, he's really hot, and Lucy hates it because she, a married woman, develops quite the crush on him. They engage in a little battle of who dislikes who more for awhile, he treats her like dirt, and she does her best not let it get to her, and to not let her little crush become known to him, or anyone else. Until, New York, New York where the 2 are at a conference and she finds out they have to share a suite because the hotel messed up her reservation for 2 rooms. It's there she begins to have an inkling that perhaps her obnoxious boss just may feel the same attraction for her that she has for him. And that, that right there, is the moment when it all went downhill, for her, for him, and for me. Up to that point, she hadn't done anything unforgivable, and he, while he was just a typically douchey boss, he hadn't done anything unforgivable either.
The rest of the book concludes with Lucy and Cole having their way with each first starting with light sexting, even some phone sex, and finally, the deed, and more than one time. And she starts to fall for him (and he for her, although she isn't aware of it), but she keeps putting off telling her husband, because, well, I'm not sure why. I guess because she's wishy washy, complacent, and really selfish. And Cole pushes her to tell him, wants her to tell him, even demands that she tell him. But she doesn't, and that's really why I dislike her so much. Not because she cheated, because I can actually understand why she cheated, but because she kept doing it and gave no real thought to coming clean.
Not to say that Cole is any less complicit in their whole dirty affair, because he isn't, contrary to what he seems to think. He's just as unlikable, just as much of a cheater. He pursued Lucy, made the first moves, egged the whole relationship on, knowing she was married (although unhappily), all because he says he couldn't control himself any longer. This is where I called BS. Because, we all know that adults can certainly control themselves, our brains have fully developed, we know the difference between right and wrong, we're not animals who only operate on our base instincts. He knowingly brought about a relationship he knew he shouldn't have, all because he claims to not having been able to control himself. NOPE!
It isn't until toward the end, when Lucy finally stands up for herself against both her husband and Cole, that I finally started to kind of like her. But it was too late for me, because I spent the majority of the book disliking her and a turnabout wasn't enough to make up for her selfish behavior throughout most of the first part. And Cole, I never once connected with him or liked him, because quite frankly, he was a dick throughout the entire book. He never once redeemed himself in my eyes, ever. Neither of them did, but the story itself is well written, and as I said earlier, seems realistic, and that saves it from a low rating.
Lucy is unhappily married to John, her husband, who hasn't touched her in so long that she has forgotten about what sex feels like. He's completely focused on his job, to the exclusion of his wife and their marriage. He doesn't initiate sex, he brushes off her attempts to initiate it, and he never even tells her loves her anymore, he barely even talks to her at all. So, if anyone is ripe for an affair, it's Lucy, a neglected, unhappy, married woman. Her boss, the CEO of Benson Industries, is retiring, and his son Cole is taking over for his father. This makes Lucy Cole's new assistant. It's Cole whom Lucy will ultimately fall for and cheat on her husband with.
From the very beginning, though, Lucy dislikes Cole. He's rude, dismissive, even demeaning, toward her. But, he's really hot, and Lucy hates it because she, a married woman, develops quite the crush on him. They engage in a little battle of who dislikes who more for awhile, he treats her like dirt, and she does her best not let it get to her, and to not let her little crush become known to him, or anyone else. Until, New York, New York where the 2 are at a conference and she finds out they have to share a suite because the hotel messed up her reservation for 2 rooms. It's there she begins to have an inkling that perhaps her obnoxious boss just may feel the same attraction for her that she has for him. And that, that right there, is the moment when it all went downhill, for her, for him, and for me. Up to that point, she hadn't done anything unforgivable, and he, while he was just a typically douchey boss, he hadn't done anything unforgivable either.
The rest of the book concludes with Lucy and Cole having their way with each first starting with light sexting, even some phone sex, and finally, the deed, and more than one time. And she starts to fall for him (and he for her, although she isn't aware of it), but she keeps putting off telling her husband, because, well, I'm not sure why. I guess because she's wishy washy, complacent, and really selfish. And Cole pushes her to tell him, wants her to tell him, even demands that she tell him. But she doesn't, and that's really why I dislike her so much. Not because she cheated, because I can actually understand why she cheated, but because she kept doing it and gave no real thought to coming clean.
Not to say that Cole is any less complicit in their whole dirty affair, because he isn't, contrary to what he seems to think. He's just as unlikable, just as much of a cheater. He pursued Lucy, made the first moves, egged the whole relationship on, knowing she was married (although unhappily), all because he says he couldn't control himself any longer. This is where I called BS. Because, we all know that adults can certainly control themselves, our brains have fully developed, we know the difference between right and wrong, we're not animals who only operate on our base instincts. He knowingly brought about a relationship he knew he shouldn't have, all because he claims to not having been able to control himself. NOPE!
It isn't until toward the end, when Lucy finally stands up for herself against both her husband and Cole, that I finally started to kind of like her. But it was too late for me, because I spent the majority of the book disliking her and a turnabout wasn't enough to make up for her selfish behavior throughout most of the first part. And Cole, I never once connected with him or liked him, because quite frankly, he was a dick throughout the entire book. He never once redeemed himself in my eyes, ever. Neither of them did, but the story itself is well written, and as I said earlier, seems realistic, and that saves it from a low rating.
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