Benefactor

Greenbridge Academy #3

by Abby Knox


Need a fixer? A negotiator? Need to throw money at a problem? Rushmore is your man. But as soon as the woman of his dreams, appears on stage, he’s got a whole set of problems that not even he knows exactly how to fix. One of them being, she’s 18. The second problem? She’s his spoiled daughter’s classmate. Confident he can make an arrangement that will satisfy both himself and the beautiful Hunter, he is all set to woo her with flowers, gifts, and anything else her heart desires. He soon discovers, however, that the young lady is not a property to be acquired.

Eighteen-year-old Hunter expects to coast through her senior year and then go to New York to conquer the world. How exactly she’s going to finance these big dreams is the only question. When the answer comes in the form of the dashing Mr. Rushmore — the father of the meanest, richest girl in school — Hunter has a big decision to make. Will having all the material things she’s ever wanted be worth risking her reputation? Maybe not, but she sure is going to have fun while it lasts.

Need a sugar daddy to pay your bills? Get ready, because Mr. Rushmore is about to make it rain! Just don’t call him that, whatever you do. He’s “investing” in your “future.” Warning: this novella contains an age-gap love story with lots of teasing and heavy petting before the virgin gets the biggest gift of all! As always, you’ll get your HEA with no cliffhangers and no cheating.

(Possible sensitivity: Our hero has an ex-wife, but no drama occurs with said ex wife in this story.)

Genres: Romance, High School, Contemporary, Erotica, Novella

104 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 21, 2019

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

This is definitely the most taboo story in the series. Anthony really didn’t have a chance to live a fun life. Meeting Hunter opened his eyes up to a life he really didn’t have to one she could give him. Their relationship is kept a secret not only because of the age difference but because she is still in high school. Their relationship isn’t perfect and has some bumps. I loved Hunter’s feistiness and fire. She wasn’t afraid to tell Anthony what she wanted and when she wasn’t happy. He became a new man because of her.

Safety and Spoilers
Completely safe. No ow/om drama. H’s sexual past wasn’t really mentioned but he did have an ex wife that was an arranged business marriage, h was a virgin. No abuse.

[Denice · Rating 2 out of 5]

Benefactor (Greenbridge Academy #3) by Abby Knox

HERO - Anthony Rushmore. CEO of Rushmore Hospitality Group. Board of Trustees President and biggest benefactor at Greenbridge Academy. Golden eyes. Bearded.

HEROINE - Hunter Rydell. High school senior. Hates being on the swim team, but loves being in theater. Drama queen. Long, white blonde hair. Brown eyes.

OVERALL THOUGHTS - I don’t understand this book. And to explain why, it’s all going under a spoiler tag.

In chapter one, Anthony falls in “love” at first sight with Hunter. Thinks to himself, he wants her to be his second, and last, wife. That’s his whole motivation throughout the book, right? So why on earth did he do a 180 and decide to become her sugar daddy instead? We get NO insight to that. He went from “gonna marry her” to “benefactor” in the blink of an eye, and the reader is left in the dark as to how or why that happened.

I understand that he doesn’t “want people”, he “wants things” and so his love language is to throw gifts at people. That doesn’t explain why instead of telling Hunter that he’s romantically interested in her and would like to get to know her (remember, he wants to marry her one day), he instead lays down rules about touching her whenever he wants in exchange for him buying her things. She even asks him outright if she should call him her boyfriend and he chooses to have her call him her benefactor instead. WHAT?? You can be someone’s significant other and STILL buy them gifts!

He also rejects the title of “sugar daddy” because he says it’s beneath him. Well, what does that say about his opinion of her to even suggest that she accept gifts in exchange for letting him touch her?

This story starts in August and by the time we reach December (around 70%, I think), there’s been no progression. She doesn’t really know him. He doesn’t really know her. And to top it off, they’ve only gotten to 3rd base, despite both being adults and wanting to go all the way. Mind you, they BOTH fell in love at first sight. I felt like this book wasted my time.

In the first few chapters of Anthony’s POV, he was so likeable. He was a little gruff and had a sense of humor about him. The further we get in the story, though, the more detached I felt from him. Like we were no longer privy to his innermost thoughts even when we were in his POV.

Hunter had what I thought was a realistic reaction to being pursued by a much older man - confused, hesitant, and unsure if it was something she could be into. That actually made the story feel unique from most others of its kind. But then she went into brat mode, followed by barely a hesitation when he suggested being her “benefactor”. Basically, I wasn’t a fan of hers for a good bit of the middle and then she got better toward the end again when she finally put her foot down about what she wanted from him - his time.

And his explanation for his behavior? It sucks. He thought he needed to turn her into a corporate wife?? That’s it, I’m done!

After all that, why even finish the story? Well, it's not that it's poorly written. It's just a frustrating read.

SAFETY

Age: Hunter - 18; Anthony - 39

Sexual History: Hunter - virgin; Anthony - no mention of whether he’s been celibate for any length of time.

Condoms: None used, but she’s on birth control.

Heat Level: Medium - 2/5 There’s only one actual sex scene at like 85%, but they do fool around a few times prior.

Push and Pull: I would say there’s a lot of Anthony keeping her at arm’s length. So while they’re together for most of the book, she never feels close to him and feels he doesn’t listen to her.

Separation: A few days, after Hunter tells him they need some space. I think they may have still been together, though, because when he asks if she’s breaking up with him, she shakes her head and then mentions the dreaded “space”. Hunter calls it a “falling out”. Either way, neither is with others during the few days they’re spaced out. Heh.

Cheating: None

OW/OM drama: There’s an ex-wife, but there’s no drama with her. They’re on relatively good terms and she’s seeing someone else. I don’t think it’s mentioned how long they’ve been divorced...anyway, their marriage was an arranged one and eventually fell apart because they had nothing common. Neither cheated on the other.

Sex scene with OW/OM: None

Abuse: None

Possible Pet Peeves/Triggers: Hero has an ex-wife and an 18-year-old daughter.

HEA/HFN: HEA - married with two six-year-old twins and a baby on the way.

[Vicki · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ sweet, Instalove age gap short story

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not as good as books 1 and 2, IMHO.

Bought from kindle.

[Shamima · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it

great book

great series

[Leslee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I had an idea of how things were going to go in Benefactor but again, Abby Knox knows how to take a trope and make it her own. Anthony Rushmore has a reputation for being a fierce businessman and a member of the board at Greenbridge Academy. He is also the father of the most spoiled, selfish girl at that school. That was all he had in his life, work and regrets on how his kid turned out. That all changed the moment he saw Hunter on the stage. Her looks, her passion, her skill captivated him and he was determined to do whatever it took to make her dreams come true. There was just one problem, she was the classmate of his daughter. Hunter knows what she wants in life, too bad her parents don't listen to anything she says when they are home that is. When Anthony approaches her, she is captivated by this man who shows her so much attention. Is there any chance for them, any chance at all? I was so focused on these two, I ignored everything as I watched their story unfold. The twists kept coming and I was impressed with Hunter and her determination to get what she really, really desires. Magnificent story telling, Ms Knox is one of my absolute favorites and I can't wait for more!

[**Elle**Bee**Double U** · Rating 4 out of 5]

For 18 year old Hunter she only has one dream. To make it in theater. She's spent her entire high school career building her skills to include acting, making the costumes, and then directing other grade level plays. However, her parents don't see this as a serious career move and refuse to finance anything to do with her trying to obtain a career in the theater. So what's a woman to do?

From the minute Rushmore saw Hunter he knew he had to have her. He'll do whatever it takes to get this little beauty to become his. Even pay for her dreams to come true. For Rushmore he's always been able to fix problems with his money, it's all he's ever needed. But Hunter will show him there's more to life than just the money he throws at problems.

This is a safe read.
If stories with larger age gaps offend you then this isn't the book for you.
If you don't like stories with men children the same age as the love interest than this is definitely not for you.

[Elysian Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I loved Anthony (the benefactor, not the sugar daddy). This story was so fun and cute! I really thought Anthony was going to be gruff and a&$hole-ish but he was really a great man! I also really, really loved Hunter. She is so strong and grounded. I loved how she stood up for herself and kept true to her values.

If you have read book one in the Greenbridge Academy books, Swim Coach, then you get the larger picture of both of stories with thus one. It can totally be read as a standalone, but I encourage any reader to read both. It just makes them that much more enjoyable! Even though I massively dislike Ridley, I want to read her story because I just know there us something more going on there.

This book has no triggers, no OW/OM, is insta everything, sweet and sassy. It was the perfect before bed read! I'm off to dream about my own benefactor!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Benefactor is book three in the green bridge academy series. This story is short, fast paced and an enjoyable read. I read this book in one sitting and was satisfied throughout. I found the writing style easy to follow, the characters likeable and the storyline enjoyable. This story is Hunter and Rushmore’s story who we met briefly and got hints about in book one.
The chemistry between Hunter and Anthony was clear to see and I liked them as a couple. They’re perfect for one another.
I really liked the ending and the epilogues for this story. I liked that Anthony and Hunter got their happily ever after and that Hunter got/achieved her dream.
The storyline for this book is easy to follow and it is an enjoyable read. I cannot wait for more books from this series. I hope we get Ridley’s story because I want to no more about her despite my distaste for her.

[Saramarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rushmore 😍🥰😍🥰

I’m loving everything about this series! I’m a sucker for older alpha males and the sassy women who tame them.

Hunter is an 18 year old senior who is desperately trying to pursue a Broadway career. Which is a struggle because her parents won’t take her Acting seriously. When a handsome older man changes her whole world.

Rushmore is a very wealthy man, whom happens to own a string of popular hotels. This sexy alpha male is used to getting his way, so when Hunter falls into his arms he knows she’s meant for him. And nothing will get in his way.

5 star read all the way. It’s a fast paced, fun read that has the perfect amount of sexy to it!!! Can’t wait for more!

[Gsmitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh Abby Knox, you sure do know how to tug at my heat strings! I adored Rushmore and Hunter's book and love how it fits into the #greenbridgeacademy world and also definitely has me super excited for the next one!
Hunter is a wonderfully beautiful on the inside and out independent woman that although young knows what she wants and also knows what she's worth. Rushmore has been a workaholic most of his life and doesn't quite know how to live, until Hunter jumpstarts his life!
Their meet-cute, their verbal sparring, their clear affection and need and desire for one another is lovely to experience on the page, and showcases how good communication can truly benefit a relationship!
I loved this story and can't wait to reread it and read the next one!

[NicoleReadsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story!!! I wanted to know Hunter’s story from the first book in the series. She was such a good character and she deserved a HEA.

Hunter is the drama student just hoping to make it big after high school. Sure she’s on the swim team, but her focus is the stage. She doesn’t really care about relationships until Rushmore bulldozes his way in.

Anthony Rushmore is Ridley’s (almost 40 year old) father. He is filthy rich and used to getting his way. What does he want now? Precious Hunter. He is fascinated at first glance. He decides to be her ‘Benefactor’.

Story is hot and fast. Love how it all plus out. The ending is so sweet. It all comes together.

There’s also a teaser at the end for the next book. Can’t wait. Thanks for the awesome read Abby!

[JudyAnnLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, sexy, adorably clueless, sexy, sexy, knock’em down instalove, sexy, sexy, well intentioned but slightly delusional, sexy, sexy, hot older man yumminess. This my friends, describes Anthony. Sexy, sexy, fiercely loyal, sexy, sexy, ever so tempted, sexy, sexy, confused but willing, sexy, sexy, young and virginal. And this describes Hunter. Together Anthony and Hunter fill the pages of this older man/younger woman story with lots of swoon worthy, sexy moments. Yet another winning addition to Abby Knox’s Greenbridge Academy Series.

[Booklass Garrahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful surprise!

This is a romance. A short, but very special romance. Anthony is so much older than Hunter. I didn't mind that, but I was afraid that the author would resort to the usual dominant older man/slightly bratty, submissive younger woman. She did not. This is a very thoughtful, well crafted novella about two people who are quickly smitten with each other but have obstacles to overcome. I really loved this one. I laughed sometimes, and I even got choked up at one point. Nicely done.

[Misty Schott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!!

Hunter is going into her senior year of high school at Greenbridge Academy and she really wants to be an actress. When Rushmore sees her in a summer play just before school starts he knows he can't live without her, so he offers to be her benefactor to help with her acting career. Hunter will have to teach this stuffy suit to loosen up, that there is more to life than money and material things. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!

[Erin Schwichtenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

I loved how the younger one, Hunter, teaches the older one, Anthony, how to actually live life like everyday people should. And the fact that she wasn’t some snobby gold digger but a real genuine person that only wants someone to spend time with! Great storyline from start to finish but the fact that he is much older is of course hott! I can’t wait for the next one! Oh and I would really love to know Ridley’s story! 😉

[Heather A.]

Three cheers

I love Greenbridge Academy. Abby Knox has successfully written a book connected to book one without repeating too much of book one. There were quick snippets to give reminders of events with Hunters best friend but nothing was to repetitive that would cause me to skip pages. A young girl teaches a slightly older man that money is not everything and how to live life, love hard and relax with friends.

[Ali · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a bit of a fun new author to read, the book had an interesting plot. But, in the end it only took me about an hour to read. I did wish there was more depth to the plot and characters, it felt like the author could have gone further with her idea and the romance between the two. It felt as if the romance skipped around a lot and jumped to strange rules and situations between the two main characters. 

[Lynn Thinking out loud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every second of this older man/younger woman book.
From the very first time Rushmore laid eyes on Hunter he was smitten. Now all they have to does is navigate the obstacles of their family. Not to mention Hunter is still in high school and he is the Benefactor for her school.
I read this with kindle Unlimited.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Benefactor

Rushmore was determined to make Hunter his and she was determined to change his way of thinking. Hunter didn't take bs from anyone and not because Rushmore was filthy rich didn't mean everything was going to go his way. The best thing was they loved each other unconditionally.

[Katina Burnett-woo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunter slays!

I have read a good many May December romances. Mostly the women are weak and need a daddy figure to save them. Hunter is a different type of heroine. She is smart and funny and not at all intimidated by Rushmore or his money. It was refreshing. I loved it and highly recommend it.

[Oriana Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oooohhhh so hot and sweet. Loved this book, at first I was thinking the age gap was to big... but ooohhh boy was I wrong. Hunter and Rushmore were great together. Insta Love and a HEA, what do you need more.😍😍 Now I am waiting for the book about his daughter Ridley.

[Jennifer Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super sexy love at first sight!

It is love at first sight for Rushmore, when he sees Hunter performing in my fair lady. It takes a bit more work to get Hunter and Rushmore to share everything with each other. This books is a quick bumpy ride to happily ever after. Enjoy!

[Dirtyditty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sugar daddy 🥰

I’ve been waiting for this story ever since I read “ Swim Coach “ It was almost as good as I expected I could have done without Anthony being so emotionless until the end but that would have been a different story.

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm loving this series

I'm really loving this series, and I think Abby Knox has a new fan, it's a bit of a taboo situation older Male younger girl but it works, and they work it out in the end I give this story 5 feel good stars *****

[Danielle Grimes-Oliveira · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good

Was so excited to finally be able to read Hunter and Rushmore 's story. It was so good. Short but sweet. I can't wait for the next book in this series.

[Kim A · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read!

This was so good. I’m a fan of a forbidden romance but throw money in there and I’m sold. This was a great book!

[Rose Helg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Book

First, I never read her books before. This was an Good Book. The ending was Good,also. I will definitely read more of her books. This Book was 👍 Good.

[Jennifer Copeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Book

I enjoyed reading this book so much! I couldn't put my kindle down! I enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between the couple! Fantastic book

[Jennifer Scarn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed it

Good take on the OMYW : sugar daddy trope. More heart and I liked how the author explained how they handled it all. Looking forward to more