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Manhattan Records #1
The Boss
What do you do when your boss’s boss flirts with you, promises you a good time and nothing more, yet keeps coming back for more?
Nate Lexington is one of New York’s most eligible bachelors and intends to keep it that way. He doesn’t let anyone get close…until a chance encounter with employee Ashlee Webb turns his world upside-down.
When Nate overhears Ashlee and a co-worker gossiping about the size of his “family jewels,” her friend gets suspended while Ashlee is asked to attend a company event with him.
Nate discovers her virgin submissiveness and is smitten. A relationship blossoms until he makes a knee-jerk decision that screws up everything.
Don’t miss The Boss, a new steamy romance from USA Today Bestselling Author, M. S. Parker.
Nate Lexington is one of New York’s most eligible bachelors and intends to keep it that way. He doesn’t let anyone get close…until a chance encounter with employee Ashlee Webb turns his world upside-down.
When Nate overhears Ashlee and a co-worker gossiping about the size of his “family jewels,” her friend gets suspended while Ashlee is asked to attend a company event with him.
Nate discovers her virgin submissiveness and is smitten. A relationship blossoms until he makes a knee-jerk decision that screws up everything.
Don’t miss The Boss, a new steamy romance from USA Today Bestselling Author, M. S. Parker.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2019
3774 people are currently reading
884 people want to read
About the author
M.S. Parker
256 books2,097 followersStep into the seductive and suspenseful world of M. S. Parker, a USA Today Bestselling author where dark romance meets thrilling suspense. If you crave stories that are both steamy and intricate, with characters that are as dangerous as they are desirable, you've found your next obsession.
M. S. Parker specializes in crafting addictive series that push boundaries and keep you guessing until the very last page. Expect to find dangerous mafia bosses and intense, grumpy billionaires clashing with smart, witty young women who, though perhaps out of their element, are quick to adapt and hold their own. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, where passion is a weapon and love is the ultimate prize. Dive into the darkness. You might just find your new favorite escape.
Connect with M. S. Parker on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msparkerauthor
M. S. Parker specializes in crafting addictive series that push boundaries and keep you guessing until the very last page. Expect to find dangerous mafia bosses and intense, grumpy billionaires clashing with smart, witty young women who, though perhaps out of their element, are quick to adapt and hold their own. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, where passion is a weapon and love is the ultimate prize. Dive into the darkness. You might just find your new favorite escape.
Connect with M. S. Parker on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msparkerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
September 4, 2019
How does something so promising end up being such a disappointment or irritation? The Boss is about Nate Lexington, CEO of a major record label in Manhattan. He also has arrangements with women, never relationships, is a Dom, and really sees them as only for f*cking - his words not mine.
Ashlee Webb is an assistant in the A&R department of the company. One day when Nate visits that floor, he overhears the other assistant talking about the rumours surrounding his sex life and calls them both up to his office for lapse of professional workplace conversation. Ashlee was not part of the conversation, so he fires the other and allows Ashlee to stay on. But now she's on his radar and he wants her and take her he does. Ashlee is a virgin so she really dives into the deep end considering all his kink. And for the majority of the book she really held her own. Nate is as asshole of the highest order as far as I'm concerned but she always gave it right back. There was no whimpering or crying or pining. And I liked her for that.
Then we get into the back end of the book and his actions are so self-absorbed, selfish, jumping to conclusions and disrupting her life in every way possible and I just really didn't like him at that point. This wasn't a book where you find out why the H is an asshole or how he's become this way, there is absolutely no backstory to make you have that 'aha' moment as to why he's turned into who he is. Also annoying was the fact his family was alluded to as if there were problems there but not a single hint was given as to why. And then to top it off, it has a rushed ending, Ashlee caving in less than 60 seconds and I guess what people would usually call a HFN except I can't stomach labeling it that as it's almost like the book's cut off. And guess what? It is! Because as stated by the author: "There's more to Nate and Ashlee's story in The Dom (Manhattan Royals 2).
Of course, said book isn't out yet and the author gives the impression when you read the blurb that this is a standalone. So, not only did the book feel incomplete but I guess you have to wait until book 2 to find out why this guy is such a douchebag to a stand up girl and all women in general. Hate coming down on a book but with a rushed, discombobulated ending, a H that shows no redeeming qualities and having the h cave in and go against her character for most of the book plus needing to be roped into a second one unaware while reading the first, I can't say I'm too happy with this read. I doubt I'll read the second because there's just too many other books out there to get to and nothing peeves me more than when an author fails to make their readers aware that's there's no completion to a story or that it's going to drag out into another.
So 2 stars tops. And that's for Ashlee not being a doormat (until the last 3 pages) and for the sexy times. Those did rock. Too bad - this could've been a really good read but in the end it made me feel like I'd wasted my time.
Ashlee Webb is an assistant in the A&R department of the company. One day when Nate visits that floor, he overhears the other assistant talking about the rumours surrounding his sex life and calls them both up to his office for lapse of professional workplace conversation. Ashlee was not part of the conversation, so he fires the other and allows Ashlee to stay on. But now she's on his radar and he wants her and take her he does. Ashlee is a virgin so she really dives into the deep end considering all his kink. And for the majority of the book she really held her own. Nate is as asshole of the highest order as far as I'm concerned but she always gave it right back. There was no whimpering or crying or pining. And I liked her for that.
Then we get into the back end of the book and his actions are so self-absorbed, selfish, jumping to conclusions and disrupting her life in every way possible and I just really didn't like him at that point. This wasn't a book where you find out why the H is an asshole or how he's become this way, there is absolutely no backstory to make you have that 'aha' moment as to why he's turned into who he is. Also annoying was the fact his family was alluded to as if there were problems there but not a single hint was given as to why. And then to top it off, it has a rushed ending, Ashlee caving in less than 60 seconds and I guess what people would usually call a HFN except I can't stomach labeling it that as it's almost like the book's cut off. And guess what? It is! Because as stated by the author: "There's more to Nate and Ashlee's story in The Dom (Manhattan Royals 2).
Of course, said book isn't out yet and the author gives the impression when you read the blurb that this is a standalone. So, not only did the book feel incomplete but I guess you have to wait until book 2 to find out why this guy is such a douchebag to a stand up girl and all women in general. Hate coming down on a book but with a rushed, discombobulated ending, a H that shows no redeeming qualities and having the h cave in and go against her character for most of the book plus needing to be roped into a second one unaware while reading the first, I can't say I'm too happy with this read. I doubt I'll read the second because there's just too many other books out there to get to and nothing peeves me more than when an author fails to make their readers aware that's there's no completion to a story or that it's going to drag out into another.
So 2 stars tops. And that's for Ashlee not being a doormat (until the last 3 pages) and for the sexy times. Those did rock. Too bad - this could've been a really good read but in the end it made me feel like I'd wasted my time.
August 28, 2025
REVIEW
Rating: 1.5/5
POV: 1st; dual
Tropes: Boss/Employee; Alphahole; Age Gap (12 years); Virgin FMC
Heat Level: 5+/5
Kinks: BDSM Life Style (Dom/Sub); butt stuff
Likes:
* There were a few moments that got a small chuckle out of me
* I guess I can say I liked the FMC. She was strong minded which I liked because she has to be that to deal with the MMC.
Dislikes:
* The MMC, omg. I love alphaholes but he’s just unredeemable. I’ll try and explain below.
Conclusion:
I went into this book blind. I obviously based off the title knew it would be a boss/employee romance but I did not know it was a bdsm book. I have nothing against them I just didn’t expect that.
The MMC is the co-ceo of a record company. He’s a completely asshole to literally everyone. From his family, to his employees, to the women he sleeps with, and even to his partner in business who he actually likes. He was truly insufferable. He behaved like a petulant child and it never went away. All he did in the whole book was talk dirty to the FMC so she would then stupidly jump in bed with him or make the stupidest assumptions that just led to everyone hating him, including the FMC.
He uses revenge porn on an ex which was super eww and he literally only fucks the FMC from behind the whole book except in the last sex scene that around 98%.
The FMC like I said above I did like but she was also average? She has this strong head on her shoulders but when it came to the MMC it felt like she really did let him walk all over her. It was disappointing. She would have these good inner monologues but then we would get to the point of her actually speaking/being with the MMC and she’d just get turned on and immediately sleep with him. It was obnoxious and made no sense. This book is not romantic.
To top all of this off - it ends on a cliff hanger🤦🏻♀️. I’m sure you can deduce based on this review I won’t continue the series. I just don’t care.
1.5/5
Rating: 1.5/5
POV: 1st; dual
Tropes: Boss/Employee; Alphahole; Age Gap (12 years); Virgin FMC
Heat Level: 5+/5
Kinks: BDSM Life Style (Dom/Sub); butt stuff
Likes:
* There were a few moments that got a small chuckle out of me
* I guess I can say I liked the FMC. She was strong minded which I liked because she has to be that to deal with the MMC.
Dislikes:
* The MMC, omg. I love alphaholes but he’s just unredeemable. I’ll try and explain below.
Conclusion:
I went into this book blind. I obviously based off the title knew it would be a boss/employee romance but I did not know it was a bdsm book. I have nothing against them I just didn’t expect that.
The MMC is the co-ceo of a record company. He’s a completely asshole to literally everyone. From his family, to his employees, to the women he sleeps with, and even to his partner in business who he actually likes. He was truly insufferable. He behaved like a petulant child and it never went away. All he did in the whole book was talk dirty to the FMC so she would then stupidly jump in bed with him or make the stupidest assumptions that just led to everyone hating him, including the FMC.
He uses revenge porn on an ex which was super eww and he literally only fucks the FMC from behind the whole book except in the last sex scene that around 98%.
The FMC like I said above I did like but she was also average? She has this strong head on her shoulders but when it came to the MMC it felt like she really did let him walk all over her. It was disappointing. She would have these good inner monologues but then we would get to the point of her actually speaking/being with the MMC and she’d just get turned on and immediately sleep with him. It was obnoxious and made no sense. This book is not romantic.
To top all of this off - it ends on a cliff hanger🤦🏻♀️. I’m sure you can deduce based on this review I won’t continue the series. I just don’t care.
1.5/5
August 28, 2019
4.5 Who’s the Boss? Stars🌟
Ashlee works at Manhattan Records in their A&R department as an assistant, along with one other assistant. When one of their bosses gives them instructions to work together, the other assistant engages Ashlee in a regaling of the man boss, CEO Nate and all his interesting proclivities. However, Nate catches them and they are summoned to his office.
Ashlee has always had an impeccable work ethic and doesn’t believe in gossiping and is surprised when the other assistant is suspended but she essentially “lands” a date with Nate to an upcoming event.
This book obviously has some BDSM elements which M.S. Parker is renowned for, but the story blew my mind when a secret was revealed that I did not see coming...it was epic❣️I haven’t been reading much by this author of late but I really enjoyed the story and the characters and I hope to read more in the future. I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and I voluntarily leave my honest review😁
Ashlee works at Manhattan Records in their A&R department as an assistant, along with one other assistant. When one of their bosses gives them instructions to work together, the other assistant engages Ashlee in a regaling of the man boss, CEO Nate and all his interesting proclivities. However, Nate catches them and they are summoned to his office.
Ashlee has always had an impeccable work ethic and doesn’t believe in gossiping and is surprised when the other assistant is suspended but she essentially “lands” a date with Nate to an upcoming event.
This book obviously has some BDSM elements which M.S. Parker is renowned for, but the story blew my mind when a secret was revealed that I did not see coming...it was epic❣️I haven’t been reading much by this author of late but I really enjoyed the story and the characters and I hope to read more in the future. I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and I voluntarily leave my honest review😁
Read
June 10, 20221 out of 10 reviews said that she is sassy and strong.
That one review is wrong.😑
#Virgin h.
#Manwhore H.
Usually above pairing doesn't bother me if the H is very OTT , but ....... here's the dealeo-
⏺NATE-
Brain in Dick H.
Mid-40s .
Man child.
One review said, that🤣🤣 "he was mid 40s , and when the h rejected sex , he got so irritated as if he was a 16 y/o punk who had been rejected his blowjob after the first date."
So, yeah he is pushy.
OTT? Hhahahahaha.......no. FUCK NO.
Disrespectful and jerk.
⏺Ashlee-
Virgin.
Mid 20s.
She can't make up her mind about dating the boss or not.
One moment she is debating , the next moment she has a tongue down her throat.
If you see a review saying she is strong , ........ no, they were paid to write that.
Also , she is continuously telling how people will judge her if they find out she's dating her boss , and she might loose her job , BUT SHE DOES NOT STOP SLEEPING WITH HIM.
BIGGEST SHOCK-One time he gets angry when she rejects sex, and he FIRES HER.
this was my breaking point.
😡Fucking asswipe d-bag
That one review is wrong.😑
#Virgin h.
#Manwhore H.
Usually above pairing doesn't bother me if the H is very OTT , but ....... here's the dealeo-
⏺NATE-
Brain in Dick H.
Mid-40s .
Man child.
One review said, that🤣🤣 "he was mid 40s , and when the h rejected sex , he got so irritated as if he was a 16 y/o punk who had been rejected his blowjob after the first date."
So, yeah he is pushy.
OTT? Hhahahahaha.......no. FUCK NO.
Disrespectful and jerk.
⏺Ashlee-
Virgin.
Mid 20s.
She can't make up her mind about dating the boss or not.
One moment she is debating , the next moment she has a tongue down her throat.
If you see a review saying she is strong , ........ no, they were paid to write that.
Also , she is continuously telling how people will judge her if they find out she's dating her boss , and she might loose her job , BUT SHE DOES NOT STOP SLEEPING WITH HIM.
BIGGEST SHOCK-One time he gets angry when she rejects sex, and he FIRES HER.
this was my breaking point.
😡Fucking asswipe d-bag
Want to read
March 3, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/3/2021)! 🎁
September 2, 2019
Quick Info
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Nate Lexington
Ashlee Webb
----------------------------------
What happens?
Nate Lexington is Ashlee's boss' boss. He is very handsome with some kinks hidden very poorly. Ashlee is a PA, climbing her way up from runner, when her bosses assign her and another PA a task, the other employee wants to gossip about Nate in a NSFW way. Nate overhears the other girl talking to Ashlee and although she doesn't respond she doesn't tell her in Nate's hearing to stop either.
To fill a problem he makes Ashlee come with him to a party and promises himself he won't touch her as she is an employee. When it comes to light she didn't tell him the whole truth he sacks her and is surprised when she leaves quietly instead of having a tantrum.
Final thoughts
This is an interesting read I found randomly. I won't read on because I just didn't feel like this story line warrants more than one book. Its very scattered and the story line jumps about a bit. I did think this was an interesting read in terms of the erotica, but depends on what you want, I wanted erotica and romance, I wasn't interested in just one.
Would I read again?: Probably not
Would I read this author again?: Yes
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Nate Lexington
Ashlee Webb
----------------------------------
What happens?
Nate Lexington is Ashlee's boss' boss. He is very handsome with some kinks hidden very poorly. Ashlee is a PA, climbing her way up from runner, when her bosses assign her and another PA a task, the other employee wants to gossip about Nate in a NSFW way. Nate overhears the other girl talking to Ashlee and although she doesn't respond she doesn't tell her in Nate's hearing to stop either.
To fill a problem he makes Ashlee come with him to a party and promises himself he won't touch her as she is an employee. When it comes to light she didn't tell him the whole truth he sacks her and is surprised when she leaves quietly instead of having a tantrum.
Final thoughts
This is an interesting read I found randomly. I won't read on because I just didn't feel like this story line warrants more than one book. Its very scattered and the story line jumps about a bit. I did think this was an interesting read in terms of the erotica, but depends on what you want, I wanted erotica and romance, I wasn't interested in just one.
Would I read again?: Probably not
Would I read this author again?: Yes
August 21, 2020
3.5 stars
This was HOT!
Okay so the romance was STEAMY and both Nate and Ashlee were great but did I love this enough to read or even want to read the next book?
Sorry nope.
I just wish this was a standalone book because if the few loose ends were tied up in this book it'd be a solid 4 star book but things were just dragged out.
Not to say this wasn't great because it was, it was just missing something for me.
This was HOT!
Okay so the romance was STEAMY and both Nate and Ashlee were great but did I love this enough to read or even want to read the next book?
Sorry nope.
I just wish this was a standalone book because if the few loose ends were tied up in this book it'd be a solid 4 star book but things were just dragged out.
Not to say this wasn't great because it was, it was just missing something for me.
September 3, 2019
I really don't like books that you have to wait for the next one to find out what happens.
I didn't realize when I started it, many authors mention this at the books start (yay them). This one didn't. I generally wait for the set to be complete before reading - my preference.
This one gave me pause for thought - I liked Ashlee she was an adult who behaved as an adult, a strong young woman. her protagonist Nate was not, he was an arsehole, every thing had to be about him, if not he threw a tantrum or made it about him.
His reaction to Ashlee doing some research on his company before her employment was ridiculous and he deserved for Ashlee to sue him. It wasn't about him in any way shape or form and Ashlee had the right to check things out. This was only one incidence in a series of incidences where he treat Ashlee poorly and she let him back in! - eyes rolling here.
The story ended with a HFN - Actually a happy for this day, given Nate's' constant selfish behaviour - with a sequel to come ( grr), I doubt if there could a HEA because Nate is just not worthy of one.
Will I read the next one ? Not sure.
I didn't realize when I started it, many authors mention this at the books start (yay them). This one didn't. I generally wait for the set to be complete before reading - my preference.
This one gave me pause for thought - I liked Ashlee she was an adult who behaved as an adult, a strong young woman. her protagonist Nate was not, he was an arsehole, every thing had to be about him, if not he threw a tantrum or made it about him.
His reaction to Ashlee doing some research on his company before her employment was ridiculous and he deserved for Ashlee to sue him. It wasn't about him in any way shape or form and Ashlee had the right to check things out. This was only one incidence in a series of incidences where he treat Ashlee poorly and she let him back in! - eyes rolling here.
The story ended with a HFN - Actually a happy for this day, given Nate's' constant selfish behaviour - with a sequel to come ( grr), I doubt if there could a HEA because Nate is just not worthy of one.
Will I read the next one ? Not sure.
August 27, 2019
The author brings a hot and steamy story with strong characters and a hot chemistry. The author brings tons of emotions along with the sizzling sex scenes and weaves an interesting and erotic story. It's well written,moves quickly and smoothly and I enjoyed reading. Warning: it does end with a cliffhanger.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
May 3, 2020
2 starsss~
Saking ga okenya, sampai lupa ceritanya. Biasa banget. Tentang hero yg into bdsm (at least 50 shades of grey itu detail ttg bdsm nya masih oke) tp ga detail jg bdsm nya. Jadi lebih ke ttg romance kantor yang forbidden dan heronya terlalu berasumsi yg buruk tentang heroinenya, then hurt her feelings.
Saking ga okenya, sampai lupa ceritanya. Biasa banget. Tentang hero yg into bdsm (at least 50 shades of grey itu detail ttg bdsm nya masih oke) tp ga detail jg bdsm nya. Jadi lebih ke ttg romance kantor yang forbidden dan heronya terlalu berasumsi yg buruk tentang heroinenya, then hurt her feelings.
January 15, 2021
What a stupid ass book. The story is about Ashlee who works for a recording company as an assistant and the big boss called Nate. After hearing random gossip about his activities outside business, he calls in Ashlee and another employee wrongly assuming Ashlee was gossiping. After finding out she wasn't, he fired the other girl and decided he wanted Ashlee as a sexual conquest. For someone who is supposed to be smart and works really hard to get where she is, she decides it'll be a great idea to let her boss finger her at a work event, then go home with him and lose her virginity. Nate is supposedly a Dom so he was very dominant in his ways with her, making sure she doesn't read much into their hookup and pretty much sends her packing once they've done their business. He then approaches her again even though it was supposed to be a one time thing and sleeps with her again. Then he turns up drunk on her house smelling of cheap perfume, she gets pissy tells him to sleep on the sofa rejecting his advances. He wakes up feeling pissed at her as he yet again wrongly assumes she'll be the one making things awkward or reading too much into the whole situation. He still seduces her and she let's him instead of telling him no. He once again screws things up after another sexual encounter and ends up firing her. Instead of reporting his ass to HR she goes away on a holiday where he follows her under the pretense of work related issue. And guess what she does? She goes back to his hotel room to have more sex.....
I'm seeing fifty shades of red with this book. Firstly, Nate is a manwhore who has no problems ending "arrangements" with women as soon as he's bored, no questions asked. He believes women are only there for fucking, nothing more.
Secondly, he's a sorry excuse of a Dom. He acted like a spoiled little brat when Ashlee told him to leave her house after he was rude to her the night before and also at work when she tried to keep a distance. He was giving mixed signals when he made it clear he doesn't do relationships certainly not with an employee then in next moment he was screwing her in his office. He's supposed to be in his mid 40s yet was acting like a teenager who didn't get a blowjob after his first date.
Ashlee was a disappointment. Instead of calling him on his shit and reporting his behaviour, she continues to sleep with him even when she knows it'll ruin her hard working reputation and losing out on a job that she excels at.
This book was just a complete disappointment.
I'm seeing fifty shades of red with this book. Firstly, Nate is a manwhore who has no problems ending "arrangements" with women as soon as he's bored, no questions asked. He believes women are only there for fucking, nothing more.
Secondly, he's a sorry excuse of a Dom. He acted like a spoiled little brat when Ashlee told him to leave her house after he was rude to her the night before and also at work when she tried to keep a distance. He was giving mixed signals when he made it clear he doesn't do relationships certainly not with an employee then in next moment he was screwing her in his office. He's supposed to be in his mid 40s yet was acting like a teenager who didn't get a blowjob after his first date.
Ashlee was a disappointment. Instead of calling him on his shit and reporting his behaviour, she continues to sleep with him even when she knows it'll ruin her hard working reputation and losing out on a job that she excels at.
This book was just a complete disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2021
WTH?
Nate is a d*ck.
He uses women with little to no consideration for their feelings.
Yes, you can break up with a person at your discretion. That is perfectly okay.
But what is not okay?
If a person is undeniably cruel on purpose.
Nate is a grade A jerk off.
And his arrogance was off the charts. Which made him a huge turn off for me.
I really, really tried to like him. But nope. The more he talked the less I liked him.
Oh and the women sort of p*ssed me off too.
Why?
They let him off far too easy only to either sleep with him again without a proper apology or shamefully beg him back.
Really, ladies?!! He. Treated. You. Like. Crap!!!
I don't care how good he is in bed. If he treats you like crap when you're not between the sheets then he is not worth your time or energy. Even if he is a billionaire. Just yuck!
Ugh. This was definitely not what I was expecting.
Nate is a d*ck.
He uses women with little to no consideration for their feelings.
Yes, you can break up with a person at your discretion. That is perfectly okay.
But what is not okay?
If a person is undeniably cruel on purpose.
Nate is a grade A jerk off.
And his arrogance was off the charts. Which made him a huge turn off for me.
I really, really tried to like him. But nope. The more he talked the less I liked him.
Oh and the women sort of p*ssed me off too.
Why?
They let him off far too easy only to either sleep with him again without a proper apology or shamefully beg him back.
Really, ladies?!! He. Treated. You. Like. Crap!!!
I don't care how good he is in bed. If he treats you like crap when you're not between the sheets then he is not worth your time or energy. Even if he is a billionaire. Just yuck!
Ugh. This was definitely not what I was expecting.
December 22, 2019
I have a lot of M. S. Parker books and am a fan in general. But not of this book. This reads more like erotica where the BDSM education of the virgin girl is the main 'plot'. If you take out the sex, you'd have no book to speak of. The h starts off strong and awesome but caves to have sex every single time even though the H is a complete ass. UGH! There's a plot twist that's very interesting and I would have loved to see actual plot because, dangit, the characters and story have such great potential and I love how the sparks fly when she's putting him in his place (up until she caves for sex). Then, to top it all off, the book ends on a cliffhanger that wasn't apparent before I bought it. Nice try, but I'm not buying the next one.
July 29, 2020
It started out so GOOOOD but ended so badly. I liked Ashlee so much and her spunk but goddamn halfway through it went downhill. I swear I had no high expectations Their chemistry was there and Nate has the potential to redeem himself but he never really does. I really hated how this book ended that pretty much ruined it for me. I’m so sad it had so much potential. Plus the entire dominant submissive plot was extremely unnecessary. It didn’t seem like a pivotal plot and the author could’ve stuck to a typical boss employee thing but oh well
October 24, 2019
A hotty with rules. No commitments no relationship no long term.
Business business business. Music then women. Lots of them.
But his priorities chance when he meets her and a the song goes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Business business business. Music then women. Lots of them.
But his priorities chance when he meets her and a the song goes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2019
I loved Nate and Ashlee's story but, then again, I've loved every book that I have read by the talented M.S. Parker. I was rooting for them the whole time. There is a cliffhanger. Can't wait for #2.
January 24, 2021
Good start to the series... can’t wait to read more
This is my fourth M.S. Parker series and I have to admit, that the more I read of her books, the more I enjoy them.
I used to think that the whole BDSM thing wouldn’t be my cup of tea.... and whilst I’m not suddenly going to go out and get myself a set of handcuffs and leather whips, I can now see that my opinions of the nature of BDSM preferences has most certainly changed. I’m, well... enlightened!
So, to this book. Like many books in this genre, the narrative flips between the two main characters Ashlee Webb, the innocent, pretty, curvy and smart young A&R assistant and the record label co-owner and gorgeous multi-billionaire, Nathan Lexington. I have to admit that I like books that do this alternating narrative because it gives you an insight into how both characters think and react to their situation.
He’s a Dom. A man who doesn’t do relationships... only arrangements. When he becomes bored of his current sub, he breaks the arrangement and leaves them, much to the annoyance and grievance of the woman he’s pushed aside. Having just called time on his current arrangement with the rather possessive Mona, for the first time in a long while the thought of entertaining another sub feels tiresome. He still doesn’t want a relationship, but he was bored of the same old submissive women. Maybe it’s time for a change or just a break? Concentrate on his business?
That all seems like a good enough plan until he inadvertently meets Ashlee. When her colleague is overheard talking to Ashlee about Nate’s sexual habits and reputation, Nate sees red. Demanding they go to his office to explain themselves he recognises something in Ashlee that he hasn’t seen before.
There’s an air of honesty about Ashlee... an innocence. Instantly attracted to her, instead of suspending Ashlee like her colleague he proposes a deal for her to accompany him to a forthcoming record label function as his date. She reluctantly agrees. Unsure of his motives or his intentions she sees it as an opportunity to learn more about the industry and her date. She has every intention of keeping it strictly professional, but she can’t deny that sparks of attraction flicker between them.
As you can probably guess, things don’t quite go to plan and the date becomes full of tension and sizzling chemistry. When they duck out earlier following an incident with a member of one of the record labels biggest stars, things start to build between them.
Nate is quick to give Ashlee the score of how he does things. No relationship, just an arrangement... but when he realises the depth of her innocence, he realises that his usual dominant ways are going to need to be curbed and tamed. Could this be what he needs? Could Ashlee be the perfect sub for him to train and mould? Or could she be the one to give him more than what he thinks he desires.
It’s a great start and with lots of twists and heart stopping moments, it’s clear that their ‘arrangement’ is going to take them both into new territory.
Can’t wait to keep reading more about the couple. Bring on book 2!!
This is my fourth M.S. Parker series and I have to admit, that the more I read of her books, the more I enjoy them.
I used to think that the whole BDSM thing wouldn’t be my cup of tea.... and whilst I’m not suddenly going to go out and get myself a set of handcuffs and leather whips, I can now see that my opinions of the nature of BDSM preferences has most certainly changed. I’m, well... enlightened!
So, to this book. Like many books in this genre, the narrative flips between the two main characters Ashlee Webb, the innocent, pretty, curvy and smart young A&R assistant and the record label co-owner and gorgeous multi-billionaire, Nathan Lexington. I have to admit that I like books that do this alternating narrative because it gives you an insight into how both characters think and react to their situation.
He’s a Dom. A man who doesn’t do relationships... only arrangements. When he becomes bored of his current sub, he breaks the arrangement and leaves them, much to the annoyance and grievance of the woman he’s pushed aside. Having just called time on his current arrangement with the rather possessive Mona, for the first time in a long while the thought of entertaining another sub feels tiresome. He still doesn’t want a relationship, but he was bored of the same old submissive women. Maybe it’s time for a change or just a break? Concentrate on his business?
That all seems like a good enough plan until he inadvertently meets Ashlee. When her colleague is overheard talking to Ashlee about Nate’s sexual habits and reputation, Nate sees red. Demanding they go to his office to explain themselves he recognises something in Ashlee that he hasn’t seen before.
There’s an air of honesty about Ashlee... an innocence. Instantly attracted to her, instead of suspending Ashlee like her colleague he proposes a deal for her to accompany him to a forthcoming record label function as his date. She reluctantly agrees. Unsure of his motives or his intentions she sees it as an opportunity to learn more about the industry and her date. She has every intention of keeping it strictly professional, but she can’t deny that sparks of attraction flicker between them.
As you can probably guess, things don’t quite go to plan and the date becomes full of tension and sizzling chemistry. When they duck out earlier following an incident with a member of one of the record labels biggest stars, things start to build between them.
Nate is quick to give Ashlee the score of how he does things. No relationship, just an arrangement... but when he realises the depth of her innocence, he realises that his usual dominant ways are going to need to be curbed and tamed. Could this be what he needs? Could Ashlee be the perfect sub for him to train and mould? Or could she be the one to give him more than what he thinks he desires.
It’s a great start and with lots of twists and heart stopping moments, it’s clear that their ‘arrangement’ is going to take them both into new territory.
Can’t wait to keep reading more about the couple. Bring on book 2!!
May 4, 2021
Struggled with 2 vs 3 star
First off, this book ends in cliffhanger, but entire trilogy is out. This a section of the story, not a standalone. That wasn't my issue with the book. I knew that going in. Its on KU so no big deal. My biggest issue is the weak characters. The author gives us no reason to like the H, but gives us numerous reasons to not like him. The h is weak minded and weak willed. She constantly gives in when he gives her NO reason to want to. I get he's pretty, but wow. The author doesn't give us reasons to cheer on the characters. Both have sad personal lives, but so do a lot of people. There is no character development, no chemistry, no relationship development, nothing. Just a lot of assumptions and a lot of sexy times. He is supposedly intrigued by her, but has zero regard for her job, her as a person, or her privacy. Steamy scenes are well written, but felt gratuitous given circumstances surrounding. Told the n POV of two main characters.
***Spoilers** He jumps to wrong conclusions repeatedly, sexually harasses her at work, shows up at her doorstep drunk admitting to going to sex club to try to relieve tension with someone else and is mad she wouldn't sleep with him. He finds an article on her table that proved she knew his name before she was hired and he fires her. That's it. Most people research companies before they apply. He wrongfully fired a subordinate he was having sex with and NO ONE tells him to screeches head back on straight before she sues them. His friend and co owner does tell him he doesn't approve. The h doesn't ask for explanation of his behavior and just lets it go. She doesn't expect or receive any kind of respect apparently. She half heartedly tells him no a couple times, then caves. He fires her for no reason and she just accepts it. He goes after her a week later and accuses her of stealing intellectual property he doesn't even know if she has it. He had her computer wiped on a tantrum as soon as he fired her and lost all of her work. That's on him, not her. He stalks her, find out where she went on vacation with her mom. Crashes, accuses her of stealing IP them gives half hearted apology when she blurts out why she researched company before applying. Suddenly she can't get to his hotel fast enough. He fired her. Wouldn't hear her very simple explanation. Then stalked her. Accused her. And she couldn't get naked fast enough. All this and he still won't admit he likes her. All around disappointed in every female in this book. From her mom who should want to junk punch him or at least hire lawyer, the neighbor who should protect her, not aide the stalker in finding her even when she caught him in a lie, the crazy ex girlfriend, acting like a jilted lover because he broke up, the coworker that got fired and spread gossip about the meal mill wall flower a rep even though there is zero proof at the time she has done anything wrong. The only reason I didn't DNF is because I have to finish books. It takes a LOT for me not to finish. There were some good parts. Spread thin throughout. First quarter of the book is much better than the rest of it.
First off, this book ends in cliffhanger, but entire trilogy is out. This a section of the story, not a standalone. That wasn't my issue with the book. I knew that going in. Its on KU so no big deal. My biggest issue is the weak characters. The author gives us no reason to like the H, but gives us numerous reasons to not like him. The h is weak minded and weak willed. She constantly gives in when he gives her NO reason to want to. I get he's pretty, but wow. The author doesn't give us reasons to cheer on the characters. Both have sad personal lives, but so do a lot of people. There is no character development, no chemistry, no relationship development, nothing. Just a lot of assumptions and a lot of sexy times. He is supposedly intrigued by her, but has zero regard for her job, her as a person, or her privacy. Steamy scenes are well written, but felt gratuitous given circumstances surrounding. Told the n POV of two main characters.
***Spoilers** He jumps to wrong conclusions repeatedly, sexually harasses her at work, shows up at her doorstep drunk admitting to going to sex club to try to relieve tension with someone else and is mad she wouldn't sleep with him. He finds an article on her table that proved she knew his name before she was hired and he fires her. That's it. Most people research companies before they apply. He wrongfully fired a subordinate he was having sex with and NO ONE tells him to screeches head back on straight before she sues them. His friend and co owner does tell him he doesn't approve. The h doesn't ask for explanation of his behavior and just lets it go. She doesn't expect or receive any kind of respect apparently. She half heartedly tells him no a couple times, then caves. He fires her for no reason and she just accepts it. He goes after her a week later and accuses her of stealing intellectual property he doesn't even know if she has it. He had her computer wiped on a tantrum as soon as he fired her and lost all of her work. That's on him, not her. He stalks her, find out where she went on vacation with her mom. Crashes, accuses her of stealing IP them gives half hearted apology when she blurts out why she researched company before applying. Suddenly she can't get to his hotel fast enough. He fired her. Wouldn't hear her very simple explanation. Then stalked her. Accused her. And she couldn't get naked fast enough. All this and he still won't admit he likes her. All around disappointed in every female in this book. From her mom who should want to junk punch him or at least hire lawyer, the neighbor who should protect her, not aide the stalker in finding her even when she caught him in a lie, the crazy ex girlfriend, acting like a jilted lover because he broke up, the coworker that got fired and spread gossip about the meal mill wall flower a rep even though there is zero proof at the time she has done anything wrong. The only reason I didn't DNF is because I have to finish books. It takes a LOT for me not to finish. There were some good parts. Spread thin throughout. First quarter of the book is much better than the rest of it.
July 28, 2020
There was no chemistry for me between these two.
Nate kept saying how different Ashlee was but I just kept asking how? She still had sex with her boss and she still had no self control when it came to him. she would literally ignore all the worries she had once he mentions sex. Speaking of sex, that is literally all they ever did. They barely had a full conversation throughout the whole book that is really just two weeks. We also never get why Nate is just so horrible. J guess it could be in the next book but for real, I have no motivation to even read that.
For me to read a series, there has to be a captivating storyline with insane chemistry between the main characters and I didn’t find that there.
Ps. I don’t know if I mentioned this cuz I am typing this really quick but they was no investment in the character traits of Ashlee. She seemed really bland to me and I found myself skimming through every time she would go on and on about how she shouldn’t be sleeping with he boss or how people would judge her or what they would say about her.
Nate kept saying how different Ashlee was but I just kept asking how? She still had sex with her boss and she still had no self control when it came to him. she would literally ignore all the worries she had once he mentions sex. Speaking of sex, that is literally all they ever did. They barely had a full conversation throughout the whole book that is really just two weeks. We also never get why Nate is just so horrible. J guess it could be in the next book but for real, I have no motivation to even read that.
For me to read a series, there has to be a captivating storyline with insane chemistry between the main characters and I didn’t find that there.
Ps. I don’t know if I mentioned this cuz I am typing this really quick but they was no investment in the character traits of Ashlee. She seemed really bland to me and I found myself skimming through every time she would go on and on about how she shouldn’t be sleeping with he boss or how people would judge her or what they would say about her.
August 6, 2021
Oh goodness...what a story! Whew!
Had me on the edge of my seat. When Nate has relations with women it's usually just a one and done or done with certain terms. However when Nate meets Ashlee who works in one of his company's departments he doesn't realize he's met his match.
Nate never dates anyone who works for him but this gorgeous, smart, redhead has him only thinking of her. Ashlee has worked for the company only for a few short years but she is learning lots about the music business and likes to help her bosses Stu and Lena. As an assistant she helps scout out new bands and looks into social media surrounding them.
Lots of bad gossip surrounding Nate and his women. Ashlee doesn't want to be included in the gossip. Things get wild between Nate and Ashlee. He just can't leave her alone until something happens. Will it break them apart? Can they move forward and does he want to? Oh so good!! Must read next book!! Enjoy!!
Had me on the edge of my seat. When Nate has relations with women it's usually just a one and done or done with certain terms. However when Nate meets Ashlee who works in one of his company's departments he doesn't realize he's met his match.
Nate never dates anyone who works for him but this gorgeous, smart, redhead has him only thinking of her. Ashlee has worked for the company only for a few short years but she is learning lots about the music business and likes to help her bosses Stu and Lena. As an assistant she helps scout out new bands and looks into social media surrounding them.
Lots of bad gossip surrounding Nate and his women. Ashlee doesn't want to be included in the gossip. Things get wild between Nate and Ashlee. He just can't leave her alone until something happens. Will it break them apart? Can they move forward and does he want to? Oh so good!! Must read next book!! Enjoy!!
February 23, 2022
So far a strong start to this trilogy, although Nates tendency to react before he thinks, and to not get the full story (more than once) is getting childish.
He knows Ashlee is different, yet keeps expecting her to act like the other women he's been with and treating her the same.
Funny how a 23yr old virgin can be more mature than a 35yr old Dom.
The whole Finley-Dad issue was a twist, so we'll see where that goes.
The chemistry between theses 2 is hot! Nate is used to being a certain type of Dom (if that's a thing) so he's not exactly gentle with her, but it works for Ashlee too it seems.
He knows Ashlee is different, yet keeps expecting her to act like the other women he's been with and treating her the same.
Funny how a 23yr old virgin can be more mature than a 35yr old Dom.
The whole Finley-Dad issue was a twist, so we'll see where that goes.
The chemistry between theses 2 is hot! Nate is used to being a certain type of Dom (if that's a thing) so he's not exactly gentle with her, but it works for Ashlee too it seems.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2021
Great Read
This was a great read. When I first met Nate I was damn he's hot, has everything in control and under control but as I continued to read I started seeing his insecurities and how he would take it out on Ashlee and I was then like forget him. Ashlee is the gurl who's already been through stuff and came out strong. She's independent and confident in herself and I love seeing that she is a boss ass chick in an assistant roll lol. All in all I liked the story developing of the characters. Let's see how it continues into book 2
This was a great read. When I first met Nate I was damn he's hot, has everything in control and under control but as I continued to read I started seeing his insecurities and how he would take it out on Ashlee and I was then like forget him. Ashlee is the gurl who's already been through stuff and came out strong. She's independent and confident in herself and I love seeing that she is a boss ass chick in an assistant roll lol. All in all I liked the story developing of the characters. Let's see how it continues into book 2
March 4, 2022
Average Read
Trope: boss/employee, some bdsm
Slow burn level: 37%
Hero is a CEO of a records company. No nonsense, direct, commanding. Is a dominant. Starts a fancy towards an employee.
Heroine is an employee at the hero's record company. Excellent worker. Gets caught up in rumors. Virgin. Red head
Crisis was just okay, I do feel the heroine forgave the hero quickly.
Meant as a trilogy, but you could end here without feeling you are missing out.
Trigger warning: none
Trope: boss/employee, some bdsm
Slow burn level: 37%
Hero is a CEO of a records company. No nonsense, direct, commanding. Is a dominant. Starts a fancy towards an employee.
Heroine is an employee at the hero's record company. Excellent worker. Gets caught up in rumors. Virgin. Red head
Crisis was just okay, I do feel the heroine forgave the hero quickly.
Meant as a trilogy, but you could end here without feeling you are missing out.
Trigger warning: none
April 13, 2023
Nate Lexington is one of New York’s most eligible bachelors and intends to keep it that way. He doesn’t let anyone get close…until a chance encounter with employee Ashlee Webb turns his world upside-down.
When Nate overhears Ashlee and a co-worker gossiping about the size of his “family jewels,” her friend gets suspended while Ashlee is asked to attend a company event with him.
Nate discovers her virgin submissiveness and is smitten. A relationship blossoms until he makes a knee-jerk decision that screws up everything.
When Nate overhears Ashlee and a co-worker gossiping about the size of his “family jewels,” her friend gets suspended while Ashlee is asked to attend a company event with him.
Nate discovers her virgin submissiveness and is smitten. A relationship blossoms until he makes a knee-jerk decision that screws up everything.
November 1, 2025
Quite a beginning
Nate is a CEO and partner in a large record company. He is also very female oriented. He loves to be with them all the way until he gets bored, then it’s over whether the woman wants that or not.
Ashley is a hard worker. She has worked her way up from intern to assistant in the A&R department of this record company. She prides herself on her work ethic and dedication.
These two people are nothing alike and yet from almost the first moment there is an electricity between them. How can they possibly make this work?
Nate is a CEO and partner in a large record company. He is also very female oriented. He loves to be with them all the way until he gets bored, then it’s over whether the woman wants that or not.
Ashley is a hard worker. She has worked her way up from intern to assistant in the A&R department of this record company. She prides herself on her work ethic and dedication.
These two people are nothing alike and yet from almost the first moment there is an electricity between them. How can they possibly make this work?
January 30, 2022
An okay read
I’m giving this a solid 3 stars but if I were new to the dominate alpha male world I’d probably given 4. Our H was just not strong enough to hold my attention but the h?! Wow, she made the book for me. Kudos to Ash for wearing her big girl pants and taking this story by the horns and riding it through to victory. I currently have no plans to read the 2 or 3rd book but promise to update review if this changes.
I’m giving this a solid 3 stars but if I were new to the dominate alpha male world I’d probably given 4. Our H was just not strong enough to hold my attention but the h?! Wow, she made the book for me. Kudos to Ash for wearing her big girl pants and taking this story by the horns and riding it through to victory. I currently have no plans to read the 2 or 3rd book but promise to update review if this changes.
July 20, 2023
Hot
This book had some 🔥 scenes. I really liked that Nate is unapologetic about what he wants, although he's back and forth over any time of relationship with Ashlee is frustrating. Ashlee is this sweet innocent woman, who is softbspoken and she can stand up for herself, except with Nate. He seems to just walk all over her most of the time. I really like this story and couple but I do hope Ashlee is a bit stronger in the next book.
This book had some 🔥 scenes. I really liked that Nate is unapologetic about what he wants, although he's back and forth over any time of relationship with Ashlee is frustrating. Ashlee is this sweet innocent woman, who is softbspoken and she can stand up for herself, except with Nate. He seems to just walk all over her most of the time. I really like this story and couple but I do hope Ashlee is a bit stronger in the next book.
February 3, 2026
Slow Start
My first book by this author and I almost didn't finish it. It starts off a little.slower than I like but I'm so happy I pushed through. Well balanced characters, perfect amount of steam, though its almost never too much for me, and an interesting twist! I should have guessed but I'm glad I didn't 😁. I'm ready for book 2, and found a new author to explore. Well worth 5 ⭐'s
My first book by this author and I almost didn't finish it. It starts off a little.slower than I like but I'm so happy I pushed through. Well balanced characters, perfect amount of steam, though its almost never too much for me, and an interesting twist! I should have guessed but I'm glad I didn't 😁. I'm ready for book 2, and found a new author to explore. Well worth 5 ⭐'s
March 31, 2021
Kindle unlimited
For honest review . Nate Lexington is CEO and co owner of Manhattan records . When he sees ashlee Webb assistant to mr. Babcock in A&R he knows he must have her . This two have different views on relationships but she has him running scared alot but he always has her on his mind. Awesome story
For honest review . Nate Lexington is CEO and co owner of Manhattan records . When he sees ashlee Webb assistant to mr. Babcock in A&R he knows he must have her . This two have different views on relationships but she has him running scared alot but he always has her on his mind. Awesome story
April 4, 2020
Good
I’ve enjoyed this book… I didn’t realize that it was a cliffhanger ending… That another book would need to be bought. There was a twist that I didn’t see it coming and that was very enjoyable.
I’ve enjoyed this book… I didn’t realize that it was a cliffhanger ending… That another book would need to be bought. There was a twist that I didn’t see it coming and that was very enjoyable.
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