Fool's Errand

Cartwright Brothers #4

by Lilliana Anderson

I’m a tomboy through and through. But when the man of my dreams walks through my door, I want to be all woman. But that’s not how I roll….

Skirts and dresses, makeup and perfume. Things I knew nothing about. With my red hair and lanky body, I was just one of the guys. The ‘cool’ girl they hung out with but rarely dated seriously. Not that I had time for relationships anymore. Ever since my grandad passed, I’d been working day and night to try and salvage the failing locksmith business he’d spent his lifetime building.

Then he walked in. Abbot Cartwright. Childhood friend. Collector of many women. I hadn’t seen him since he was thirteen.

He grew up good.

He also liked to play games. Games I was willing to be a part of, at first. Then things started getting serious—and illegal...

I had feelings and morals.
Abbot didn’t have either.
He needed my expertise, and I needed his commitment.

Seemed neither of us was going to get one without the other. And I was getting too old to play games.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

ebook

Published October 12, 2018

About the author

Bestselling Author of the Beautiful Series, Drawn and 47 Things, Lilliana has always loved to read and write, considering it the best form of escapism that the world has to offer.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.

Reviews

[Meegz Reads]

*5 Stars*

I think this has been my favourite book in the series so far. And I totally was not expecting that. Particularly after the way that Abbot had acted in Kristian's book, which is the one before this.

I loved both Sloane and Abbot so much. They hooked me right from the start, with Sloane coming in and speaking her mind right from the start. For most things anyways. Whilst she may not have complete knowledge about some things, she is who she is, and she just wants to be accepted for it.

I loved that we saw another side to Abbot. I liked that he was upfront with Sloane from the start, even with their very interesting chemistry. Honesty is something that doesn't always happen in romance novels, and whilst this one of course had its issues and ups and downs for the characters, honesty was not one of them. These two were upfront about things and it was refreshing.

Of course we have all our favourites from the previous books, and whilst you don't have to read them to understand things, I would recommend it, because I think it's better to experience these guys in the right order for the maximum effect. I love most everyone in this family, but since book 2, I have not been the biggest fan of Holland and Nate, and I also keep flipping around on my opinions about Jazz. She's an interesting one for sure. Im also not sure about Breaker after this book either. There are a lot of levels to these characters, and it just makes the whole ride more intriguing and fun.

Whilst we have meddling from the family in this one, Abbot and Sloane's story is much more organic, and that also brought a new light to things. Sloane has history with these guys so that really helped make up parts of the story. Add in her personal history away from them, and it really made a nice complete little package. Sloane might just be my favourite of all the Cartwright ladies now.

There was a lot going on this book, and whilst the book is longer than the others, it didn't feel like it dragged on. It was just right. The perfect way to tell this part of the story. There are also plenty of things which I am very curious to see how they play out in Toby's book, which is next, and the final book in the series. He is the character we have all been interested in from the start, so this penultimate book will be one hell of a ride I'm sure.

Can't wait to finish this series, even though I'll be sad to be done. It's like we know these guys, even though they're fictional characters. I hope we get more from them in the future. In the meantime...bring on Toby!


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[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰]

ARC received from author for an honest review

Lilliana Anderson, this series just keeps on getting better and better, and I don't want it to end.

We are up to brother number 4, Abbot, and there are so many things that I just adored about this story.

I loved that it wasn't some kind of insta-relationship with Abbot and Sloane - there is history.

I LOVED that Sloane is an older character - at my advanced years, it is getting harder to connect with the younguns (cue the "back in my day" speeeches)

Things from earlier in the series are still playing out in Fool's Errand, so you will probably want to read the earlier books before diving in here.

Sloane is a woman I want to be friends with. She takes not crap, she's all

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There was so much emotion in Fool's Errand. As we learn more of Sloane's history, the more Ms Anderson pulled at my heartstrings. The more I read, the more I loved her.

I also loved getting more of the other Cartwright brothers and their lovely ladies.

I can't lie, I still am not a fan of Jazz or Holland, and I just want them to fall out of the pages of the book, never to be seen again. (sorry Lilliana, but you know my feelings!)

Just when I think I know where the story is headed - nope, I was wrong!

I feel like the Cartwright family have become friends over the past year. As much as I love them, they do things that make me want to hate them - but I can't.

What I am really looking forward to now though, is Toby's story. The best has been left to last and I know that I am going to be taken on one hell of a ride.

I. Can't. Wait.

[Skyla Madi]

I forgot to mark this as read!! *kicks self*

I am doing a complete series re-read and will be writing (and re-writing) ALLLL my reviews. :D
If you haven't read this series yet, READ ALONG WITH ME!!

[Jennifer]

YES! YES YES YES! I needed this. Fool’s Errand is the next book in the Cartwright brother’s series. I was impatiently waiting for this book. This can be read as a stand-alone, but I am realizing that in order to fully understand the underlying plot in all the books you need to read them all.
I really enjoyed this book. I knew that Abbotts story would be good. Watching his twin fall in love was devastating to him. I liked that we got to see the aftermath in the view of another character. The underlying plot has been progressing wonderfully. I cannot wait to see where the last book takes it.
Sloane is such a wonderful character. She has this innocence to her that endears her to readers. She also has this spice to her that you don’t expect. She is really the perfect mix of sugar and spice. Then you have Abbott. We only get to see him through other characters eyes, but he is special. He is fiercely loyal to those he loves. He has an alpha personality. He is also kind hearted. All things that make him the perfect man.
The heat between these two was there from the beginning. I liked how the heat was different in this book. The games these two play with each other adds to the heat between them. I loved that things were all at once. It was a nice balance of push and pull until they finally reached the final destination. Whew these two heated up the pages.
The writing style of this book was good. The pace of the book is steady. This story is told from only one point of view, which sucks, but it also adds to the mystery of the book. I really enjoyed that I didn’t know everything for once. I liked that we got to see some of the other characters. I also like the cliff notes on how their stories happened. It was a nice reminder.
Overall, this was an amazing book. There is one more Cartwright brother we have yet to hear from. I cannot wait to see what becomes of our Toby. He has been such a strong character that his story will be epic. It has to be. I would recommend this book to others.
Ratings:
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5

*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*

[Ann-marie]

The 4th book of the Carthwright brothers. This series is set in Australia where the Cartwright's occupation is thievery. In this title the second half of a twin Abbot goes looking for a locksmith who can open the safe they stole(this heist was in the previous book). Sloane has known the Cartwright boys since she was a child and use to visit them during the summer until one summer her grandfather never took her back to their home.(We find out later in the story why that was). Unbeknownst to the Cartwright's Sloane grandfather never showed her the criminal aspect of picking safes illegal. She takes the job Abbott offers and then later find out what its about. With this book as with the others in the series you get romance a heist, hijinks, lots of steamy love making and a follow up to the other couples. Although this is a romance Lilliana is not afraid to show the harsh gritty reality of a family who lives on the dangerous edge and that they is deadly consequences to their lifestyle. I was given an arc by the author.

[Becky Rendon]

I'm new to the Cartwright Brothers and I went in blind. Talk about an unusual family with an even more exotic skill set. This family is full of stories- unique and slightly disturbing when given the Cliff notes versions. I'm so intrigued by everything I've missed. I would recommend starting at the beginning just because I need to know everything. I'm so nosey.

This unusual clan and it's interesting take on life will have you looking over your shoulder and holding your breath!

Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Hopelessly Addicted To Books]

I've enjoyed all the books in this series, I found this one a little slower at the start. Abbott and Ronnie as a couple grew on me. The banter between them at times had me snorting with laughter they were hilarious together. The author always manages to balance the humour with emotion in her stories.

I'm looking forward to the release of Toby's story who knows what the author will bring.


reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Phyl]

3.5 stars
Abbot and Sloane.
I find this a little slower to get into and not because it wasn’t good, a story about a tomboy who’s a locksmith is rare to read these days. I liked her no nonsense character. Sloane and Abbot meant to be, just like the rest of his brothers with their girls. I especially loved their banter and their games.

[Ria Alexander]

These Cartwright men just keep getting hotter

Oh Lilliana!!! Abbot Cartwright is simply scrumptious. FOOL'S ERRAND is the fourth book in the Cartwright Brothers Series and, I have to say, it's the best.

Abbot has been lost ever since his twin, Kristian, found love - he's felt a bit on the outer. However, his world is about to change when a crush from the past re-enters his life ... but not in the way you would expect. I loved Abbot, his humour, wit, sexiness and his loyalty to those near and dear to him totally endeared him to me. He was also a man who was used to getting things his own way, he was an alpha with a touch of tenderness.

Sloane, what an absolute treasure she was!!! Naive in some ways, yet worldly in others. She had some fiestiness to her, but she was also sweet and gentle. She had loved previously with all of her heart, yet had to experience that love in return. Will she find it with Abbot?

i absolutely loved Abbot and Sloane together - their chemistry was apparent from the moment Abbot walked into her shop. Once together, the games they played and their banter was simply superb. With the question of "will they or won't they?" running through the story, this story was a barrel of fun and laughs. It was interesting to learn that Abbot had had a crush on Sloane as a child, especially since Sloane is a few years older than him ... although you would never know it.

Lilliana once again brings in all the other members of the Cartwright family. It was great to catch up with them all and to see how their relationships were progressing. There's more plotting and scheming for their next job ... one that will leave one of them fighting for their life. Yet again another superb addition to this series.

Next up is Toby. I look forward to this one ... Toby has always been a bit of a mystery.

Fool's Errand is an absolute MUST READ.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

FIVE STARS

[Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads)]

Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review;

Fool's Errand was EVERYTHING I HOPED FOR AND MORE! After reading this, its hard not to love Abbot. He was so flirty, funny, playful yet wonderfully remarkable and incredible! I swooned with every playful wink and sexy innuendo he threw Sloane's way. And he sure knew how to use seductive logic and that boyish charm too. And Sloane, I felt like she was a badarse! She was so bold and strong, sassy, smart and pretty. The kind of pretty she didn't realize she had. And the fact that she dressed the way she liked instead of to impress men was something I absolutely ADORED about her.

These Cartwrights seemed to have gotten into a more dangerous situation in this book. Things get stickier, and we definitely get a better look at what Toby is feeling and thinking and wow...he nearly broke my heart and by the end of this book, I am rooting SO EFFING HARD for his HEA. At the same time I was also surprised, in the best way of course, with Abbot. I had no idea how loyal and sweet he really is until this book and I can honestly say I fell for him a lot. There was also some serious edge of your seat suspense that kept my heart hammering and some seriously beautiful surprises too that made my heart sing and sigh. This is one of the BEST books of the fall and I am SO FREAKING EXCITED AND NERVOUS FOR THE FINAL CARTWRIGHT STORY! And the ending...It will make you smile SO BIG! I can't get enough of these Cartwrights!

Fool's Errand gets a SWEET AS PIE FIVE SPECTACULAR STARS!

[Jen]

Note: An ARC was provided by the author. The full review can be read on Dog-Eared Daydreams.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen! It was rather satisfying to see someone like Abbot finally fall in love, but the fact that it was with someone who gave us good as she took--someone like Sloane--made it even better. Fool's Errand was a slow burn read, one that had Abbot and Sloane, who shared many a summer together as children and teenagers, meet again more than twenty years later. I liked that he had a crush on her growing up, and that now that they're older, it's Sloane who finds herself with a crush on him. These two certainly kept things quite entertaining, and naturally, we have Abbot's family getting involved. There's a wee bit of angst added to this otherwise witty read, and I'm always one for angst in my books. There were a couple of times that I felt like smacking Abbot because it seemed as if he was playing around with her, but in hindsight, I think it was more of him trying to wrap his head around the fact that he had gone and done the one thing he said he'd never do: fall in love. Four down, and one more to go (Toby's much awaited book!). I cannot get enough of these Cartwrights! Five stars. ♥

[Penny Lisle]

The Cartwright Brothers series is amazing!!
Abbot's happy playing girls, he believes that he can't do commitments and there is more fun in playing games! He was not planning on Sloane, a tomboy who use to visit/stay at the Cartwright home every summer, until her late teens and never returned.
Abbot needs Trev, their 'go to' locksmith and makes the trip to his store only to find Sloane working the shop and to hear Trev recently passed away. Sloane's imagination ran wild and couldn't believe this hot specimen of a man was in her shop only to realise they already knew each other. Abbot needs a locksmith and offers Sloane a nice chunk of money if she does the job. Sloane is in financial stress and needs the money, what she didn't know was how much she enjoyed being around Abbot and found herself wondering, could he possibly be her soul mate??
Secrets, old crushes, embarrassing moments, fun, thrills and adrenaline is what this pair have to deal with on their journey of finding themselves. A must read!!
Cannot wait for Toby's book, even though this means no more Cartwright Brothers adventures!! Loving this series!
Received an ARC from Lilliana Anderson

[Bel]

This series is so addictive. We are almost at the conclusion of this series and I have absolutely fallen in love with these Cartwright boys every step of the way. They are the crooks you can't help but find endearing. Abbot feels out of the loop with his two brothers and now his twin all settling down with the women of their dreams, he always thought he would be the eternal bachelor.

Sloane Slater is the tomboy locksmith that has taken over her grandad's business, she is nearing forty and contemplating her life choices when Abbot Cartwright comes crashing into her life offering her the job of a lifetime that she cannot refuse. Sexual tension is rife and their chemistry is absolutely explosive. They were so cute together. The action and drama has kicked into high gear as the Cartwrights are now taking on a life threatening heist that put them all in imminent danger!

Jump on board this thrilling ride and I guarantee you will not be disappointed. This is an amazing series and I cannot wait for Toby's story. I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Taoanebr]

Abbot where have been? My goodness, you’re so charming, sexy that I was like drooling like a dog looking for a piece of beef!

I swooned with every time he took his clothes of ( sight ) if I could lick that abs, I was stunned with his playful side, Sloane was soooo luck.

Sloane, you’re on my group of strong women, that don’t need to dress up to show off to men, I really don’t think we need that, you’re badass, sassy, gorgeous and rock on wearing overalls.

What a situation these brothers got themselves into to, for God sake, I couldn’t breathe.

I can’t wait for Toby's HEA; my heart is so small for him at mo, please Lilliana do your best with Toby!!!

Can I give 10 stars?

[S]

It was good catching up with my favourite Oz family.

This is my best one of the brothers, absolutely brilliant never did not expect the others would be topped but boy was I pleasantly impressed.

My favourite and the most hilarious thing that I have ever read was how Abbot lost his virginity, you will be laughing non stop as its comedy as its best.

Jasmine and Sloane’s mum now that was a surprise as I just could not have anticipated.

Loved this book as it is so full of all that excitement we have come to expect from this family and some more.

I just can’t get enough of this family and can’t wait to read all about Toby.

[Jean Dewsbury]

This book 4 in the Cartwright Series. Sloane and Abbott's story comes full circle. He was one of the twins from her childhood adventures shared with her pop spending every summer together with the Cartwright brothers up until she was 17years old. Many years later Abbott walks back into her life and turns it upside down. The sexual chemistry emotions and tension between these two sets you up for one of the most complex situations that leave you captivated by your feelings and emotions develop faster than you can think possible. Its that good. This series is up there in the top series I have ever read. A wonderfully beautiful strong family surrounded by love and loyalty. A must read.

[Colleen]

I absolutely love this series. When I read the first book, I really didn't know how I felt with the Cartwrights' occupation, but the author made me fall in love with the guys so much that I overlooked what they did for a living.
This is Abbot's story. Well, the author did a great job of making me love him after being really annoyed at him in the previous book. Abbot and Sloane are perfect for each other.
I loved their interactions, their games, their playfulness with one another, and their chemistry. I was sad to see their story end, but I must say, I am excited to read Toby's story.

[Gail]

OMG!! I swear these boys just keep getting better and better .. ❤️
I seriously loooooved Abbot & Blue (Sloane)
Sloan’s is a locksmith.. learning the trade from her late grandfather.. and Abbott is one of the notorious Cartwright boys (twin to Kristian)
Sloane has known the boys for years but lost contact some time ago... till one day one walks into her shop looking for a locksmith to crack a safe..

Ugh!!! I don’t want this series to end....We have 1 brother left.. SAM!!! I soooooo cannot wait for his book
Amazing job Lilliana!!!

[C.J. Martín]

FIVE Stars!!!!

I discovered this author earlier this summer and quickly devoured the first three installments in the Cartwright Series. Since then I've been anxiously awaiting Abbot's story and it did not disappoint! I stayed up way past my bedtime devouring this novel in one sitting.

I adore this author's style - sweet, funny, and sexy. Trust me you need this series in your life. You will not be disappointed with Abbot and Sloane's journey to their HEA.

[Maria]

OH MY GOODNESS! This book is amazing! Lilliana Anderson literally kills me, makes me laugh, and keeps me wanting more Cartwright brothers! The relationship between Abbot and Sloane made me love them so much from beginning to end! The banter between one another will make you laugh until you are crying tears of laughter but also make you fall in love with them. Definitely one to read!

[Ann Reeves]

Received an ARC for honest review, Loved it, nice to see another side to Abbot, loved Sloane and the continuing story of the Cartwright boys. Being a Melbourne girl have loved being able to visualise the places in these books. Can’t wait for Toby’s book but will be sad when this series ends, thanks again for another great story. ❤️😄

[Lisa May]

OMG! Best book in the series! Had a hard time putting it down! Abbott is a dream come true. He and Sloane have the best chemistry I've read on a while. Lilliana Anderson's books have always given me what I look for in writing style; characters that I can love as a well as hate, realistic settings, and a climax I never expected! I'm on pins and needles waiting for Toby's story!!!!!

[Sian Garbett]

Wow, these books just keep on getting better

I’ve loved everyone of the Cartwright books so far, each one blowing me away more than the last, it this story was simply amazing, definitely my fave.

I need Toby’s story NOW, it can’t come soon enough to not only to find out what becomes of the family but to ensure that sweet Toby finds his well deserved HEA

[Margaret Neal]

I fell in love with this book from page 1. Abbott and Ronnie had me constantly in stitches and occasionally in tears.
Lilliana Anderson is a rom com genius who knows how to bring her characters personalities to life.
I can't wait to see what she has in store for us with Toby's story next.

[Lisa]

4.5 stars

Oh my, did I love Abbot and Sloane! I loved their games and banter and wowee their moments were spot on too! This is a real page turner that I highly recommend!

[Reading with 2 book lovers Sarah P -]

Oh abbot and sloan made me swoon and sigh and fall for them so much. I devoured this story in a day, I mean just this cover alone just makes me swoon!
I highly recommend this series and book.

[Reading with 2 book lovers Sarah P -]

This is a great addition to this series

[Tracey Zelukovic]

OMG I loved this book, I couldn't get enough. I'm loving this series.

[Louise H's Book Thoughts]

An absolute corker of a book, that made me both laugh and cry

Move over Nate, Abbot is now my favourite Cartwright brother (though I'm still betting on Toby totally taking and breaking my heart in the final book). This book gave me ALL the feels, Sloane and Abbot are wonderful characters. I totally believed in Sloane (especially since she was an older heroine) and fell absolutely, utterly, totally in love with Abbot. He was so sexy, hot and gorgeous.

I may have started drooling. Hell, my eyes might have bugged out of my head and made that hubba-hubba sound like a cartoon character.
If I was a gif I'd be Adam Sandler going 'So. Hot'.

When a face from her childhood shows up unexpectedly, Sloane is thrown into a world she was no longer sure she fitted into. But the job offer would solve her financial woes and allow her to move on from her sad and lonely existence.

I knew for a fact that Pop did the odd 'questionable' job over the years - I didn't want to do anything so risky I could get caught. Orange is the New Black was a great show and all, but I didn't want to be a cast member.

Sloane didn't count on the intense chemistry that would exist between her and Abbot, boy it was explosively hot and, along with a bet, kept them both on their toes. Their sexual teasing and games really drove the story along and was great fun... until suddenly it wasn't.

We were back to being just friends. Just like that.
No more sex games... which was for the best. Obviously.
Really it was.
It was.....

This tale enthralled me, I couldn't put it down. In fact, despite it being a week night and having an alarm set for 6.10am the next day, I read until almost midnight. Thankfully the story reached a point where I could leave it until the next day, not that I wanted to! The writing is fantastic, the pace engaging and the plot captivating.

Refreshingly this story doesn't just end at the HEA point, it carried on past that point, mainly with the ongoing back ground story from previous books. Whilst reading those would add extra understanding, the author does a really good job of filling in enough details so that this can be read as a stand alone.

There are some books where you want to read the story, without ever reaching the end. This was definitely in that rare and select group for me. I could read about the sexy, fun Abbot and the natural, sassy Sloane forever.

[Sunny Shelly Reads]

Another visit to the Cartwright family! This story picks up with the safe heist in the last book. Abbott seeks out an old associate of the family’s for help in picking the lock. Sloane has taken over for her grandfather... but doesn’t exactly know about the shady dealings he had with the Cartwrights. Is she willing to sacrifice her morals for love?.

Sloane has a history with this family, having spent summers with them when they were kids. That added another layer to the story for me. And I really like Jasmine less and less with each book! Can’t one of those wives put her in her place? In any event, I’ve been waiting for Toby to find his love... next book!

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.