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Pure Talent #1
The Way You Tempt Me
Brilliant and ambitious, the high-powered team behind the Pure Talent Agency manages the best creatives in the business. In this sizzling new series, they gamble big on every wild-card, industry-outsider client--and on delicious, unexpected, crazy-irresistible passion . . .
The heir-apparent to Pure Talent, ex-playboy Xavier Starks had it all figured out. With an engagement to Hollywood's hottest actress and his innovative expansion plans, he can finally prove to his dad, Jax, that he's responsible enough to step into a leadership role at their company. Until a jilting-gone-viral puts Xavier back in the relentless social-media spotlight, out of the running for partner--and in competition with the last person he ever expected: his very-grown-up childhood friend and girl-next-door . . .
With her acclaimed sports talent roster and unparalleled instincts, agent Zara Reid knows she can take Pure Talent to the next level. To make the most of her mentor Jax's faith in her, she'll go head-to-head and scheme-to-scheme with Xavier to prove she's got what it takes. But suddenly, long days working too close together turn into reckless, insatiable nights. Now, being co-workers-with-benefits means Zara and Xavier must face their secrets, dare to trust--and negotiate the toughest game of all--love.
"The heat is high in this lustful tale."
--Publishers Weekly on Enticed by You
The heir-apparent to Pure Talent, ex-playboy Xavier Starks had it all figured out. With an engagement to Hollywood's hottest actress and his innovative expansion plans, he can finally prove to his dad, Jax, that he's responsible enough to step into a leadership role at their company. Until a jilting-gone-viral puts Xavier back in the relentless social-media spotlight, out of the running for partner--and in competition with the last person he ever expected: his very-grown-up childhood friend and girl-next-door . . .
With her acclaimed sports talent roster and unparalleled instincts, agent Zara Reid knows she can take Pure Talent to the next level. To make the most of her mentor Jax's faith in her, she'll go head-to-head and scheme-to-scheme with Xavier to prove she's got what it takes. But suddenly, long days working too close together turn into reckless, insatiable nights. Now, being co-workers-with-benefits means Zara and Xavier must face their secrets, dare to trust--and negotiate the toughest game of all--love.
"The heat is high in this lustful tale."
--Publishers Weekly on Enticed by You
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 28, 2020
About the author
Elle Wright
57 books436 followersBorn and raised in Southeast Michigan near Ann Arbor, Elle learned the importance of reading from her mother. It was also her mother who, later on in her life, gave Elle her first romance novel: Indigo by Beverly Jenkins. From that moment on, Elle became a fan of Ms. Jenkins for life and a lover of all things romance. An old journal she wrote back in college became her first book (which she still wants to publish one day).
Elle is hard at work on her next novel.
Elle is hard at work on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
July 29, 2020
The Way You Tempt Me by Elle Wright is the first book in her Pure Talent series.
Xavier Starks and Zara Reid were neighbors as children and have an enduring friendship that’s only now being threatened. Xavier is expected to take the leadership role at Pure Talent, the representation agency owned by his father, Jax, and he’s working hard to prove his worth. Zara has recently been hired by Jax and is determined to live up to his expectations, as well as her own. Competition on the job creates tension that can only be released in one way. Can they both overcome recent betrayals and start to trust again?
The Way You Tempt Me is a great way to start a new series. It holds the reader’s attention. Great characters with well-developed interpersonal relationships, compelling dialogue and an interesting plot make it a win. There is some explicit content, however it still rates 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to all readers of contemporary romance and am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Xavier Starks and Zara Reid were neighbors as children and have an enduring friendship that’s only now being threatened. Xavier is expected to take the leadership role at Pure Talent, the representation agency owned by his father, Jax, and he’s working hard to prove his worth. Zara has recently been hired by Jax and is determined to live up to his expectations, as well as her own. Competition on the job creates tension that can only be released in one way. Can they both overcome recent betrayals and start to trust again?
The Way You Tempt Me is a great way to start a new series. It holds the reader’s attention. Great characters with well-developed interpersonal relationships, compelling dialogue and an interesting plot make it a win. There is some explicit content, however it still rates 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to all readers of contemporary romance and am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
August 2, 2020
I requested this book because the author is one of my favorites, and this book is no exception. the first book in a new series know as the Pure Talent series starts off with Xaviar Starks, former child star, now talent agent and Zara Reid, who because of deceit, left her previous employer as a sports agent and took a job at the Pure Talent agency, ran by the Starks family, who all known each other since X and Zara were children. While competing for he same job, sparks fly between the two and they must decide if they have what it takes to make things work.
I was enthralled from the very first word and all the way through the entire story. I not only loved the interaction between the two main characters, I loved how the supporting characters interacted with everyone. I am also excited about book two, which is Garrett's and Skye's story. and yes you will probably need to read this book first, which gives a brief glimpse into those two characters. I loved this book and I can't wait for the next book in this series, as well as the author's future books.
I was enthralled from the very first word and all the way through the entire story. I not only loved the interaction between the two main characters, I loved how the supporting characters interacted with everyone. I am also excited about book two, which is Garrett's and Skye's story. and yes you will probably need to read this book first, which gives a brief glimpse into those two characters. I loved this book and I can't wait for the next book in this series, as well as the author's future books.
July 16, 2020
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Part of my video of NetGalley ARCS that will be up on my Youtube Channel. I will update here with a direct link soon.
Also, a full review will be going on my blog and I will update with a direct link. Below is a preview :)
Update: here is the direct link to the post
The Way You Tempt Me by Elle Wright deals with a steamy friends to lovers office romance between Zara Reid and Xavier Starks sparks a strong connection throughout this book.
Xavier Starks works at Pure Talent, an agency run by his father, Jax, but Xavier wants more. About to propose to Hollywood’s hottest actress, Xavier’s life suddenly goes abrupt and the media takes no survivors...
October 11, 2024
Long life friends turned lovers. Loved Zara and X’s story.
July 1, 2024
Good quick read
April 21, 2021
I like stories that introduce me to characters and make me believe they should be together. This is true with Xavier and Zara in The Way you Tempt Me, a contemporary romance with steamy scenes, bold characters and interesting sub plots.
Xavier’s engaged only to find out his fiancee is due to marry someone else. Zara is up for a promotion only to find out a co-worker stole her presentation along with her promotion. Zara decides to take a position at Pure Talent to run their sports division after being passed over at her previous job. She finds out her friend, Xavier wants the sports division and they’ll have to work together. Zara’s best friend, Skye is there to help her transition into her new role.
This book had some interesting characters. Xavier needs to deal with his short fuse and learn to not react to everything that upsets him. Zara is the character I was drawn to because she stood her ground. She was making sure not to get screwed over by anyone else. She also works well when thrown a curve ball. Skye is the mediator in the story and I hope to learn more about her.
It’s a typical ending, which most romance books have, but it’s the journey Xavier and Zara took me on with their friends with benefits situation that kept me enjoying the book. If you like romance with a hint of drama and hot love scenes this book is for you. I’m looking for to reading the next book in this series.
Xavier’s engaged only to find out his fiancee is due to marry someone else. Zara is up for a promotion only to find out a co-worker stole her presentation along with her promotion. Zara decides to take a position at Pure Talent to run their sports division after being passed over at her previous job. She finds out her friend, Xavier wants the sports division and they’ll have to work together. Zara’s best friend, Skye is there to help her transition into her new role.
This book had some interesting characters. Xavier needs to deal with his short fuse and learn to not react to everything that upsets him. Zara is the character I was drawn to because she stood her ground. She was making sure not to get screwed over by anyone else. She also works well when thrown a curve ball. Skye is the mediator in the story and I hope to learn more about her.
It’s a typical ending, which most romance books have, but it’s the journey Xavier and Zara took me on with their friends with benefits situation that kept me enjoying the book. If you like romance with a hint of drama and hot love scenes this book is for you. I’m looking for to reading the next book in this series.
May 4, 2020
I want to thank Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was amazing. This author seriously knows how to write an amazing love story!
Out main characters have known each other there whole lives and when Zara moves closer they realise there feelings go way beyond friendship.
The plot was amazing it sucked me right In and I finished it all in one sitting.
4 stars.
This book was amazing. This author seriously knows how to write an amazing love story!
Out main characters have known each other there whole lives and when Zara moves closer they realise there feelings go way beyond friendship.
The plot was amazing it sucked me right In and I finished it all in one sitting.
4 stars.
to-be-review
June 29, 2020I won a kindle edition of this book from goodreads, and I will post a honest review of this book as soon as I read it.
July 31, 2020
My first one by Elle. Have heard a lot about her over the years.
This one got so many raving reviews and I hate to be a party pooper. It was okay. It was hard for me to feel the chemistry. There was a lot of opportunities for her to write an amazing love scene to really demonstrate the chemistry but that never really happened. She would start a scene and then just sort of give us a generalization of what happened. Or she would mention it in another paragraph. Not that it has to be erotic because love can be depicted without eroticism. I just never got hit over the head with steam in this one.
This story has a lot of narration, but it holds the attention. I think Duke was the most entertaining character! We didn’t see a lot of him, but every time he was in a scene it was authentic. Really funny.
There were some good scenes in this, but just not enough. Also there were some things that just didn’t make sense. I didn’t care for Jax. Skye and her issues were awkward, but perhaps there is another book that will flesh that out. Supporting characters are very important and can really add life to a story. I wish we could’ve gotten more of that.
All in all it was okay.
This one got so many raving reviews and I hate to be a party pooper. It was okay. It was hard for me to feel the chemistry. There was a lot of opportunities for her to write an amazing love scene to really demonstrate the chemistry but that never really happened. She would start a scene and then just sort of give us a generalization of what happened. Or she would mention it in another paragraph. Not that it has to be erotic because love can be depicted without eroticism. I just never got hit over the head with steam in this one.
This story has a lot of narration, but it holds the attention. I think Duke was the most entertaining character! We didn’t see a lot of him, but every time he was in a scene it was authentic. Really funny.
There were some good scenes in this, but just not enough. Also there were some things that just didn’t make sense. I didn’t care for Jax. Skye and her issues were awkward, but perhaps there is another book that will flesh that out. Supporting characters are very important and can really add life to a story. I wish we could’ve gotten more of that.
All in all it was okay.
July 13, 2020
This was a good Sunday afternoon read. The first in a series is sometimes hot out the gate, sometimes a little stiff until it gets going. This one was a little stiff with a lot of characters, but the main players made themselves known. I love a friends to lovers romance where love has burned low and slow and then explodes. A pretty good start to the series... I'd definitely read subsequent novels if the blurb hit me right.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2022
Look, the Pure Talent series is really flying under the radar. Because it's got a lot of things people really like going for it - good tropes, compelling main characters, wonderful secondary characters to provide color commentary, and it centers around a high-profile talent agency in Atlanta and LA so it's 100% celebrity-adjacent with the bonus of celebrities as characters (beautiful people, fancy clothes and events, great houses, etc. etc. etc). But also good drama - this is a series that is almost immediately adaptable for streaming, it would be great!
I got book 2 in the series in a Ripped Bodice box last year and read it during a Readathon. And then went and picked up book 3 and snarfed it down right away. I also got Book 1, but just didn't get around to it, probably because I was already seeing part of the outcome of the romance so it needed a little space for me to forget particulars. But I walked past my TBR cart while I was off work on Monday, snatched it up, and planted my butt on the couch to read the first half.
X and Zara are a fantastic couple, childhood best friends who've maybe grown a little apart as adults due to work and other commitments as talent/sports agents. But when X's girlfriend (that he was intending to propose to) dumps him via Page Six gossip article and then shows up at his parents' Christmas party with her now-fiance NBA-er side-piece in two to hand-deliver a wedding invite, it turns out Zara is really the only one who can talk him down. And when Zara takes a job at the Pure Talent agency - in competition with X to head the new sports division - it doesn't take much to turn the warm glow of friendship into a full-on attraction. I really loved how even though X and Zara were "in competition" with each other, they fully respected each others' abilities and talents and job and had each others' back. And once they decided to see where this attraction took them...whew, many chili peppers for sexy office seduction scenes.
The one thing that didn't quite work for me was just HOW INVESTED the gossip magazines were in printing literal fiction about X. I know I don't keep up with actual gossip rags, but the way they were used here seemed much closer to libel/slander than just "idle speculation". (Plus, the fact that no one in this book - except Zara - really bothered to check in with X who is CLEARLY being painted as the bad guy by every garbage rag and blog despite him obviously being the wronged party, and then it's used as a plot point later, just rubbed me up the wrong way.)
I got book 2 in the series in a Ripped Bodice box last year and read it during a Readathon. And then went and picked up book 3 and snarfed it down right away. I also got Book 1, but just didn't get around to it, probably because I was already seeing part of the outcome of the romance so it needed a little space for me to forget particulars. But I walked past my TBR cart while I was off work on Monday, snatched it up, and planted my butt on the couch to read the first half.
X and Zara are a fantastic couple, childhood best friends who've maybe grown a little apart as adults due to work and other commitments as talent/sports agents. But when X's girlfriend (that he was intending to propose to) dumps him via Page Six gossip article and then shows up at his parents' Christmas party with her now-fiance NBA-er side-piece in two to hand-deliver a wedding invite, it turns out Zara is really the only one who can talk him down. And when Zara takes a job at the Pure Talent agency - in competition with X to head the new sports division - it doesn't take much to turn the warm glow of friendship into a full-on attraction. I really loved how even though X and Zara were "in competition" with each other, they fully respected each others' abilities and talents and job and had each others' back. And once they decided to see where this attraction took them...whew, many chili peppers for sexy office seduction scenes.
The one thing that didn't quite work for me was just HOW INVESTED the gossip magazines were in printing literal fiction about X. I know I don't keep up with actual gossip rags, but the way they were used here seemed much closer to libel/slander than just "idle speculation". (Plus, the fact that no one in this book - except Zara - really bothered to check in with X who is CLEARLY being painted as the bad guy by every garbage rag and blog despite him obviously being the wronged party, and then it's used as a plot point later, just rubbed me up the wrong way.)
January 19, 2021
Elle Wright kicks off her new Pure Talent series with a bang in THE WAY YOU TEMPT ME. This friends-to-lovers contemporary romance is sexy, addictive and deliciously dramatic.
Xavier Starks is the heir apparent for the new sports division of his family’s talent agency, Pure Talent. As a former child star, Xavier is no stranger to life in the limelight. In fact, the reformed playboy seems perfectly suited to deal with athletes who, collectively, are a dramatic bunch. But right as Xavier is about to propose to his Hollywood starlet girlfriend, she dumps him. And while heartbreak is no more severe for famous people, the situation is amplified because the world is watching, and the internet is forever.
Also watching is his father, Jax, and his childhood friend Zara Reid, a high-powered sports agent. When Zara returns to Atlanta after her own professional disappointment, Jax is delighted to bring her on board at Pure Talent. Zara never imagined she’d be competing with (and outplaying) Xavier for the same position, and the stakes have never been higher. Because sometimes when you’re not paying attention, you miss the good things that are right in front of you. Late nights, stressful deadlines and a lifetime of camaraderie come to a head as the two try to win the job . . . and maybe each other.
Workplace romances, both in the real world and in fiction, have the potential to cause maximum damage to those involved in a relationship. Aside from the perennial question of consent, Wright explores a quagmire of supervisors and subordinates, breaking up and remaining professional, and nepotism. But as The Way You Tempt Me realistically acknowledges, when you work 24/7 at a high-pressure career, where else will you find a partner?
Wright has crafted a compelling world of strong, complex characters. Our fearless Zara is no pushover in a man’s world. And on the flipside, Xavier is not steeped in the toxic masculinity that could so easily define his character in the competitive arena of athletes and sports agents. This is a fantastic start to a new series by one of romance’s rising stars.
*Originally published at BookPage: https://bookpage.com/reviews/25389-el...
Xavier Starks is the heir apparent for the new sports division of his family’s talent agency, Pure Talent. As a former child star, Xavier is no stranger to life in the limelight. In fact, the reformed playboy seems perfectly suited to deal with athletes who, collectively, are a dramatic bunch. But right as Xavier is about to propose to his Hollywood starlet girlfriend, she dumps him. And while heartbreak is no more severe for famous people, the situation is amplified because the world is watching, and the internet is forever.
Also watching is his father, Jax, and his childhood friend Zara Reid, a high-powered sports agent. When Zara returns to Atlanta after her own professional disappointment, Jax is delighted to bring her on board at Pure Talent. Zara never imagined she’d be competing with (and outplaying) Xavier for the same position, and the stakes have never been higher. Because sometimes when you’re not paying attention, you miss the good things that are right in front of you. Late nights, stressful deadlines and a lifetime of camaraderie come to a head as the two try to win the job . . . and maybe each other.
Workplace romances, both in the real world and in fiction, have the potential to cause maximum damage to those involved in a relationship. Aside from the perennial question of consent, Wright explores a quagmire of supervisors and subordinates, breaking up and remaining professional, and nepotism. But as The Way You Tempt Me realistically acknowledges, when you work 24/7 at a high-pressure career, where else will you find a partner?
Wright has crafted a compelling world of strong, complex characters. Our fearless Zara is no pushover in a man’s world. And on the flipside, Xavier is not steeped in the toxic masculinity that could so easily define his character in the competitive arena of athletes and sports agents. This is a fantastic start to a new series by one of romance’s rising stars.
*Originally published at BookPage: https://bookpage.com/reviews/25389-el...
July 16, 2020
I received a copy of “The Way You Tempt Me” from Netgalley; thank you.
This is the first book in the “Pure Talent” series. I was excited to receive a ARC, this book is easy to read, entertaining, action packed, believable lovable characters and not so lovable, great word building, page turner, romantic, steamy, witty all in an everyday setting and it is an excellent book and I can’t wait for book 2 “The Way You Hold Me” Syke Palmer Xavier’s cousin who handles all bad and good publicity for Pure Talent and attorney Garrett Steele.
Only child Xavier Starks is heir to Pure Talent. Xavier is a well-known ex-playboy who can’t seem to get rid of the stigma that’s attached to him from once being a playboy. Zara Reid is a high-profile sport agent. Xavier and Zara have known each other since child hood and are great friends until she and her family move away and have not been keeping in contact with each other often enough. Who would’ve known that the lovable “gummy bears” would play such an important role in a childhood crush?
Zara moves back to Atlanta after being snubbed out of a promotion that should’ve been hers. After being asked on numerous occasions by Xavier’s father Jax, she puts on her big girl panties and accepts the position and doesn’t realize that she and Xavier are in line for the same position. Xavier has worked really hard for the position that he and Zara are competing against each other to get; but Xavier doesn’t know that his father Jax has other plans in store for him.
Xavier is not only getting over losing his ex-girlfriend whom he was about to propose to and getting rid of his playboy reputation and winning the heart of Zara Reid.
Don’t forget to get your copy release date is July 28th, 2020; you will love “The Way You Tempt Me". Elle Wright this is another great series.
This is the first book in the “Pure Talent” series. I was excited to receive a ARC, this book is easy to read, entertaining, action packed, believable lovable characters and not so lovable, great word building, page turner, romantic, steamy, witty all in an everyday setting and it is an excellent book and I can’t wait for book 2 “The Way You Hold Me” Syke Palmer Xavier’s cousin who handles all bad and good publicity for Pure Talent and attorney Garrett Steele.
Only child Xavier Starks is heir to Pure Talent. Xavier is a well-known ex-playboy who can’t seem to get rid of the stigma that’s attached to him from once being a playboy. Zara Reid is a high-profile sport agent. Xavier and Zara have known each other since child hood and are great friends until she and her family move away and have not been keeping in contact with each other often enough. Who would’ve known that the lovable “gummy bears” would play such an important role in a childhood crush?
Zara moves back to Atlanta after being snubbed out of a promotion that should’ve been hers. After being asked on numerous occasions by Xavier’s father Jax, she puts on her big girl panties and accepts the position and doesn’t realize that she and Xavier are in line for the same position. Xavier has worked really hard for the position that he and Zara are competing against each other to get; but Xavier doesn’t know that his father Jax has other plans in store for him.
Xavier is not only getting over losing his ex-girlfriend whom he was about to propose to and getting rid of his playboy reputation and winning the heart of Zara Reid.
Don’t forget to get your copy release date is July 28th, 2020; you will love “The Way You Tempt Me". Elle Wright this is another great series.
July 12, 2020
I received a copy of “The Way You Tempt Me” from Netgalley; thank you.
This is the first book in the “Pure Talent” series. I was excited to receive a ARC, this book is easy to read, entertaining, action packed, believable lovable characters and not so lovable, great word building, page turner, romantic, steamy, witty all in an everyday setting and it is an excellent book and I can’t wait for book 2 “The Way You Hold Me” Syke Palmer Xavier’s cousin who handles all bad and good publicity for Pure Talent and attorney Garrett Steele.
Only child Xavier Starks is heir to Pure Talent. Xavier is a well-known ex-playboy who can’t seem to get rid of the stigma that’s attached to him from once being a playboy. Zara Reid is a high-profile sport agent. Xavier and Zara have known each other since child hood and are great friends until she and her family move away and have not been keeping in contact with each other often enough. Who would’ve known that the lovable “gummy bears” would play such an important role in a childhood crush?
Zara moves back to Atlanta after being snubbed out of a promotion that should’ve been hers. After being asked on numerous occasions by Xavier’s father Jax, she puts on her big girl panties and accepts the position and doesn’t realize that she and Xavier are in line for the same position. Xavier has worked really hard for the position that he and Zara are competing against each other to get; but Xavier doesn’t know that his father Jax has other plans in store for him.
Xavier is not only getting over losing his ex-girlfriend whom he was about to propose to and getting rid of his playboy reputation and winning the heart of Zara Reid.
Don’t forget to get your copy release date is July 28th, 2020; you will love “The Way You Tempt Me". Elle Wright this is another great series.
This is the first book in the “Pure Talent” series. I was excited to receive a ARC, this book is easy to read, entertaining, action packed, believable lovable characters and not so lovable, great word building, page turner, romantic, steamy, witty all in an everyday setting and it is an excellent book and I can’t wait for book 2 “The Way You Hold Me” Syke Palmer Xavier’s cousin who handles all bad and good publicity for Pure Talent and attorney Garrett Steele.
Only child Xavier Starks is heir to Pure Talent. Xavier is a well-known ex-playboy who can’t seem to get rid of the stigma that’s attached to him from once being a playboy. Zara Reid is a high-profile sport agent. Xavier and Zara have known each other since child hood and are great friends until she and her family move away and have not been keeping in contact with each other often enough. Who would’ve known that the lovable “gummy bears” would play such an important role in a childhood crush?
Zara moves back to Atlanta after being snubbed out of a promotion that should’ve been hers. After being asked on numerous occasions by Xavier’s father Jax, she puts on her big girl panties and accepts the position and doesn’t realize that she and Xavier are in line for the same position. Xavier has worked really hard for the position that he and Zara are competing against each other to get; but Xavier doesn’t know that his father Jax has other plans in store for him.
Xavier is not only getting over losing his ex-girlfriend whom he was about to propose to and getting rid of his playboy reputation and winning the heart of Zara Reid.
Don’t forget to get your copy release date is July 28th, 2020; you will love “The Way You Tempt Me". Elle Wright this is another great series.
June 3, 2020
The Way You Tempt Me introduces heir and ex-playboy Xavier Starks and Zara Reid. The two have known each other since childhood and now a career opportunity brings Zara to Pure Talent agency in competition with Xavier for a high profile position. Xavier has been trying to show his dad that he is a responsible enough to head up a division within the organization but a relationship gone viral has now casted Xavier in a negative light. He is determined to show his father he is best person for the job while he fights his growing attraction for Zara.
Zara is a strong independent “go getter” and does not admit defeat. She recognizes her attraction for Xavier and is torn between her career and her feelings for him. The two engage in a “co-workers with benefits” arrangement that will eventually lead to the conversation of expressed feelings.
Overall, I enjoyed this first installment in the Pure Talent series and getting to see Xavier and Zara’s relationship blossom and their learning to trust each other and find their way to love. Ms. Wright did a good job with character development and the storyline flowed very well. The secondary characters were appropriate and brought comic relief and real life experiences to the fore front. Looking forward to book two in the series.
Note: I received an advance copy from Netgalley
Zara is a strong independent “go getter” and does not admit defeat. She recognizes her attraction for Xavier and is torn between her career and her feelings for him. The two engage in a “co-workers with benefits” arrangement that will eventually lead to the conversation of expressed feelings.
Overall, I enjoyed this first installment in the Pure Talent series and getting to see Xavier and Zara’s relationship blossom and their learning to trust each other and find their way to love. Ms. Wright did a good job with character development and the storyline flowed very well. The secondary characters were appropriate and brought comic relief and real life experiences to the fore front. Looking forward to book two in the series.
Note: I received an advance copy from Netgalley
July 19, 2020
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and I’m reviewing it voluntarily. This the first book I have read by Elle Wright, and it definitely will not be the last.
Xavier and Zara have been friends since they were children and until recently never saw each other as anything more, Xavier gets dumped right before he proposes to his girlfriend and Zara is there to help him pick up the pieces, both notice a spark but do nothing about it. Then when Zara quits her job and joins Xavier’s family firm they can’t seem to fight the attraction. What ensues is a hot and sexy romance that they try to keep secret from friends and family, but everyone around around them knows what’s up and is rooting for them.
This book is well written and the chemistry between Xavier and Zara is evident in their every interaction. The sex scenes are definitely steamy without being too graphic. The story is well developed and the characters seem like old friends. The dynamic between all of the characters is intricate and has a very realistic feel to it. I really like that there are nuances to these relationships.
Xavier and Zara have been friends since they were children and until recently never saw each other as anything more, Xavier gets dumped right before he proposes to his girlfriend and Zara is there to help him pick up the pieces, both notice a spark but do nothing about it. Then when Zara quits her job and joins Xavier’s family firm they can’t seem to fight the attraction. What ensues is a hot and sexy romance that they try to keep secret from friends and family, but everyone around around them knows what’s up and is rooting for them.
This book is well written and the chemistry between Xavier and Zara is evident in their every interaction. The sex scenes are definitely steamy without being too graphic. The story is well developed and the characters seem like old friends. The dynamic between all of the characters is intricate and has a very realistic feel to it. I really like that there are nuances to these relationships.
July 24, 2020
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Way You Tempt Me piqued my interest with the mention of my catnip trope, childhood friends-to-lovers, and a pretty intriguing, cutthroat premise surrounding a talent agency.
The leads are both likable and fairly nuanced, and I liked that both were career focused. Xavier is trying to shed his playboy ways and prove his worth to his dad, a nice flip on the trope of the wayward rich playboy heir, showing his trial-and-error as he tries to show he’s matured. Zara is also working really hard in her career, and I liked seeing that as a big part of her character.
As both are after the same position, there is some competition. But I like how well the underlying romantic tension was conveyed, and that, ultimately, it wasn’t mean spirited.
This is a sweet, fluffy, and glitzy read, and I enjoyed every moment of it. If you love romances about the glamorous world of celebrities, then you’ll enjoy this one.
The Way You Tempt Me piqued my interest with the mention of my catnip trope, childhood friends-to-lovers, and a pretty intriguing, cutthroat premise surrounding a talent agency.
The leads are both likable and fairly nuanced, and I liked that both were career focused. Xavier is trying to shed his playboy ways and prove his worth to his dad, a nice flip on the trope of the wayward rich playboy heir, showing his trial-and-error as he tries to show he’s matured. Zara is also working really hard in her career, and I liked seeing that as a big part of her character.
As both are after the same position, there is some competition. But I like how well the underlying romantic tension was conveyed, and that, ultimately, it wasn’t mean spirited.
This is a sweet, fluffy, and glitzy read, and I enjoyed every moment of it. If you love romances about the glamorous world of celebrities, then you’ll enjoy this one.
February 26, 2025
To fall for your childhood friend is the ultimate romantic love story. The way they balance each other and support each other was the sweetest. While everyone around them knows they would be perfect for each other they allowed them to come to terms with it all on their own. Zara and Xavier are both dealing with loss and in their feelings about the people who betrayed them. Once X decided there is more to the friendship and has slowly allowed feelings to take over he follows Zara’s lead. Zara is calculated and trying to keep everything very surface level and professional. The way Xavier is commanding in his character is beyond sexy when he tells Zara to come here on multiple occasions, baby I’d be running. Nothing like and alpha man that knows he is going to do right by you and keep you close. Zara is better when she lets her guard down until then she is all mixed message. The way they come to terms with their feeling and their parents tell them both they knew it was something more since they were kids. The sweetest!!! I loved this book!
July 26, 2020
First things first: This is my type of friend group! I would have a ball hanging out with them.
The Way you Tempt Me Is book 1 of the Pure Talent Series and Ms. Wright starts it off great with my favorite theme of Friends to Lovers.
Fans of Ms. Wright will remember Zara Reid as Christian Knight’s no nonsense agent from The Closing Bid. Xavier “X” Starks has left acting behind and is ready to take his career at Pure Talent to the next level.
Zara and X have been friends since childhood. At the Starks’ annual holiday affair, Zara notices that X has definitely grown into his looks and is “fine as hell”. The pair end up in the same city, competing against each other at Pure Talent, and trying to figure out what’s going on between them. They know they have a problem when something as innocent as wiping chocolate from Zara’s lip has their friends raising their eyebrows at the whole interaction.
The Way You Tempt Me has sexy romance with plenty of heat, and comedic banter between friends and family. A portion of the book takes place in the Caribbean and the location is beautifully described. I wished I were there. I really enjoyed The Way you Tempt Me and I’m ready for book two!
Note: I received an advanced copy from Netgalley.
The Way you Tempt Me Is book 1 of the Pure Talent Series and Ms. Wright starts it off great with my favorite theme of Friends to Lovers.
Fans of Ms. Wright will remember Zara Reid as Christian Knight’s no nonsense agent from The Closing Bid. Xavier “X” Starks has left acting behind and is ready to take his career at Pure Talent to the next level.
Zara and X have been friends since childhood. At the Starks’ annual holiday affair, Zara notices that X has definitely grown into his looks and is “fine as hell”. The pair end up in the same city, competing against each other at Pure Talent, and trying to figure out what’s going on between them. They know they have a problem when something as innocent as wiping chocolate from Zara’s lip has their friends raising their eyebrows at the whole interaction.
The Way You Tempt Me has sexy romance with plenty of heat, and comedic banter between friends and family. A portion of the book takes place in the Caribbean and the location is beautifully described. I wished I were there. I really enjoyed The Way you Tempt Me and I’m ready for book two!
Note: I received an advanced copy from Netgalley.
May 18, 2020
This author has her finger on the pulse when it comes to family drama, conflict, and friends to lovers. "The Way You Tempt Me" has it in spaces.
It was great to see the other side of Zora Reid. We first meet her in "The Closing Bid" as the Sport's Agent Extraordinaire. Xavier Starks, heir to the Pure Talent throne is about to redeem his player card, but will it be on The One?
Who would've thought that Gummy Bears could be a symbol for a promised love and the words "Come. Here." spoken by right one could be so sexy?
Be prepared for laughing, crying, and sometimes frustration. The storyline and host of secondary characters take this intro to the Pure Talent series off to a great start. I am looking forward to what comes next.
Reader recommendation: Grab a copy, but don't rush through this one you might miss something.
It was great to see the other side of Zora Reid. We first meet her in "The Closing Bid" as the Sport's Agent Extraordinaire. Xavier Starks, heir to the Pure Talent throne is about to redeem his player card, but will it be on The One?
Who would've thought that Gummy Bears could be a symbol for a promised love and the words "Come. Here." spoken by right one could be so sexy?
Be prepared for laughing, crying, and sometimes frustration. The storyline and host of secondary characters take this intro to the Pure Talent series off to a great start. I am looking forward to what comes next.
Reader recommendation: Grab a copy, but don't rush through this one you might miss something.
July 22, 2020
Awesome read. Elle Wright never disappoints. The Way You Tempt Me is a fun, hot, sexy, and entertaining page turner. Friends since adolescense, Zara Reid & Xavier "X" Starks has always had each others backs, distance didn't matter. After a hasty career move leads Zara to Atlanta, giving her the chance to see her friend more, one thing leads to another and friends become secret lovers. Rules established, can they make their situationship work and still maintain a professional working relationship and more importantly their lifelong friendship? Rules were made to be broken, right? Zara and X's journey to forever is sweet and exhausting all at the same time but I enjoyed every bit of it. I recommend this book to any avid reader or anyone looking for a great romance novel.
*I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
*I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 28, 2020
This author has her finger on the pulse when it comes to family drama, conflict, and friends to lovers. “The Way You Tempt Me” has it in spaces.
It was great to see the other side of Zora Reid. We first meet her in “The Closing Bid” as the Sport’s Agent Extraordinaire. Xavier Starks, heir to the Pure Talent throne is about to redeem his player card, but will it be on The One?
Who would’ve thought that Gummy Bears could be a symbol for a promised love and the words “Come. Here.” spoken by right one could be so sexy?
Be prepared for laughing, crying, and sometimes frustration. The storyline and host of secondary characters take this intro to the Pure Talent series off to a great start. I am looking forward to what comes next.
Reader recommendation: Grab a copy, but don’t rush through this one you might miss something.
It was great to see the other side of Zora Reid. We first meet her in “The Closing Bid” as the Sport’s Agent Extraordinaire. Xavier Starks, heir to the Pure Talent throne is about to redeem his player card, but will it be on The One?
Who would’ve thought that Gummy Bears could be a symbol for a promised love and the words “Come. Here.” spoken by right one could be so sexy?
Be prepared for laughing, crying, and sometimes frustration. The storyline and host of secondary characters take this intro to the Pure Talent series off to a great start. I am looking forward to what comes next.
Reader recommendation: Grab a copy, but don’t rush through this one you might miss something.
July 19, 2020
They had to admit they were in love!
Former child actor Xavier Starks changed from being a child actor into working as an agent for his father at Pure Talent. Xavier plans to lead the new sports division ended when sports agent Zara Reid moved over to Pure Talent causing competition between them leading to lunch meetings and late nights at the office.
I really liked The Way You Tempt Me by Elle Wright because Xavier needed to realize that he could lose Zara forever if he doesn’t admit he has fallen in love with her because she was already in his heart.
If you like friends to lovers’ romances, you need to read The Way You Tempt Me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Former child actor Xavier Starks changed from being a child actor into working as an agent for his father at Pure Talent. Xavier plans to lead the new sports division ended when sports agent Zara Reid moved over to Pure Talent causing competition between them leading to lunch meetings and late nights at the office.
I really liked The Way You Tempt Me by Elle Wright because Xavier needed to realize that he could lose Zara forever if he doesn’t admit he has fallen in love with her because she was already in his heart.
If you like friends to lovers’ romances, you need to read The Way You Tempt Me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 6, 2024
I thought the narration was good. I didn't think much of X's father Jax. I felt like he was stringing him.along. Jax could have been just as open with X about his plans as he was with Zara. I do think X could have worked on both his anger and self control issues. I could completely understand the anger, but hold it in check.
I also thought it was a slap in X's face for his father to force him into different career situations. Probably a lot of the drama could have been avoided had his father been more forthcoming.
I liked Duke, Garrett, and Skye. I did notice what seemed to be longer pauses between each chapter. It made me think the next one wasn't going to start.
A quick entertaining read.
I also thought it was a slap in X's face for his father to force him into different career situations. Probably a lot of the drama could have been avoided had his father been more forthcoming.
I liked Duke, Garrett, and Skye. I did notice what seemed to be longer pauses between each chapter. It made me think the next one wasn't going to start.
A quick entertaining read.
April 25, 2020
Elle Wright knows how to write a great love story. Her writing flows so well that you are easily able to read her books in 24 hours! Childhood friends Zara and Xavier are all grown up and somehow find themselves madly in love with each other! Everyone-friends and family seem to have known all along. This book had me literaly laughing out loud, only to be in tears a scene later. A character (Allina) from Elle's first series made an indirect appearance. I wonder if any of the other characters from that series will appear in other installments. I'm am looking forward to book 2!
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 27, 2020
This is a great love story. The author does a wonderful job of keeping the story flowing smoothly, making the book easy and quick to read.
Xavier and Zara are childhood friends, who are all grown up. Now that they are back close together they realize that they are still in love with each other.
This book had and kept my attention from the very first page. I had my feelingf all over the place. I found myself laughing one minute, and close to tears if not crying the next.
I will definitely be recommending this to my friends and family to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Xavier and Zara are childhood friends, who are all grown up. Now that they are back close together they realize that they are still in love with each other.
This book had and kept my attention from the very first page. I had my feelingf all over the place. I found myself laughing one minute, and close to tears if not crying the next.
I will definitely be recommending this to my friends and family to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2024
It was just ok. It dragged in some parts. I found myself checking the clock to see how much longer is have to listen. Book is about Xavier and Zara. They he up together but were always just friends. They both work in sports management. Through a series of events, Zara comes to work for Xavier's family firm, and they compete for the same job. Xavier dad is the owner of the company and also Zara's mentor. But the dad was kind of grimey because he kept putting Xavier in messed up situations to teach him some greater lesson. Whatever. Anyway, everything works out for Xavier and Zara and they end with an HEA.
May 17, 2020
The Way You Tempt Me by Elle Wright is a great read. I exected nothing less. Even though friends to lovers is not a new thing in romance writing, I truly enjoyed Elle's approach.
We were given insight on many characters and challenges face and this book was an attention grabber from the very start. I found myself escaping sleep just to read a little bit more!!😂😂
I was truly pleased with Xavier and Zara's ending and will impatiently wait for the next installment of this series. You will not be disappointed with this read!!😍😍
We were given insight on many characters and challenges face and this book was an attention grabber from the very start. I found myself escaping sleep just to read a little bit more!!😂😂
I was truly pleased with Xavier and Zara's ending and will impatiently wait for the next installment of this series. You will not be disappointed with this read!!😍😍
July 16, 2020
Xavier and Zara have been friends since they were kids but now they're adults. Zara's a top sports agent and Xavier THOUGHT he would inherit the Pure Talent Agency from his dad (or at least for sure become a partner). Then, however he was the victim of a social media storm (and a broken heart) and all bets are off the table. Turns out he's going to compete with Zara. AND have to deal with their sparks. It's friends to lovers for sure. There's just enough (and not too much) drama and some real sweetness. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
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