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Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches #4
Trust Fund Fiancé
An intriguing proposal
mixes romance and finance… His friend needs a fiancé to claim a fortune.
But they both know it’s about more than money…Ezekiel Holloway’s proposition could save his friend Reagan Sinclair’s inheritance and give her the freedom she craves. But when family scandals force Ezekiel to end their fake engagement, the heiress comes up with a counterproposal—and they elope to Vegas after all! Is there something more than mere convenience at stake here?
USA TODAY Bestselling Author
mixes romance and finance… His friend needs a fiancé to claim a fortune.
But they both know it’s about more than money…Ezekiel Holloway’s proposition could save his friend Reagan Sinclair’s inheritance and give her the freedom she craves. But when family scandals force Ezekiel to end their fake engagement, the heiress comes up with a counterproposal—and they elope to Vegas after all! Is there something more than mere convenience at stake here?
USA TODAY Bestselling Author
216 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 6, 2020
76 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
171 books2,185 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
August 10, 2020
I picked this one up looking for a quick read and while it delivered, for the most part, I found myself lost (understandably) due to this particular series being so LONG. It' was cool to find out how long this series and it's spinoffs have been around for!
Naima Simone always delivers on the angst and this one is no different. We have a forbidden romance of convenience, scandals, and a lot of damned if I do you, damned if I don't. While it does go over the top at times, I found the romance to be compelling and intimate; with two souls reluctantly but inevitably falling in love despite past grievances. If you're a fan of this line of Harlequin Desire, this one is sure to stand out.
I took two stars mostly because the dialogue got too comfortable with a thesaurus and felt stiff and there weren't enough scenes with both of them just coexisting in the same space without it being A Thing.
Trigger warnings for several mentions past of miscarriage, death of a past partner, and instances of parental emotional abuse.
Naima Simone always delivers on the angst and this one is no different. We have a forbidden romance of convenience, scandals, and a lot of damned if I do you, damned if I don't. While it does go over the top at times, I found the romance to be compelling and intimate; with two souls reluctantly but inevitably falling in love despite past grievances. If you're a fan of this line of Harlequin Desire, this one is sure to stand out.
I took two stars mostly because the dialogue got too comfortable with a thesaurus and felt stiff and there weren't enough scenes with both of them just coexisting in the same space without it being A Thing.
Trigger warnings for several mentions past of miscarriage, death of a past partner, and instances of parental emotional abuse.
July 17, 2020
Tick off all the boxes, Trust Fund Fiance' has it all.
Fake fiance', check.
Marriage to receive inheritance, check.
Younger cousin's best friend, check.
Lots of drama and gossip around town, check.
Hot, alpha male, check.
Sassy heroine that learns to stand up for herself, check.
Regan Sinclair and Zeke Holloway each have their reasons for agreeing to the crazy scheme, but love has a way of sneaking up when they least expect it. I loved how Regan finally found the balls to stand up for herself! Another great read from Naima Simone!
Fake fiance', check.
Marriage to receive inheritance, check.
Younger cousin's best friend, check.
Lots of drama and gossip around town, check.
Hot, alpha male, check.
Sassy heroine that learns to stand up for herself, check.
Regan Sinclair and Zeke Holloway each have their reasons for agreeing to the crazy scheme, but love has a way of sneaking up when they least expect it. I loved how Regan finally found the balls to stand up for herself! Another great read from Naima Simone!
September 7, 2020
An angsty, incredibly steamy read that matches the high standard of Naima’s books. Can stand alone but probably best if read in its proper order in the multi-author series (#4).
The full review is on my blog Carpe Diem Chronicles.
The full review is on my blog Carpe Diem Chronicles.
July 8, 2020
Zeke and Reagan's story is just spectacular. It had a lot to live up to with a cover like that, and Naima Simone totally delivered! The characters make you want to hug them, AND fight alongside them against the idiots who try to take them down. I'm going to have to read the other books now, because this Wingate mystery has me guessing.
July 19, 2020
Rated 4.5 Stars
Trust Fund Fiance is an emotionally charged and great read. It's also steamy, sexy and an intriguing read. I loved Reagan and Ezekiel's story. There's scandal, secrets and a bit of a mystery. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Copy provided by author
Trust Fund Fiance is an emotionally charged and great read. It's also steamy, sexy and an intriguing read. I loved Reagan and Ezekiel's story. There's scandal, secrets and a bit of a mystery. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Copy provided by author
December 11, 2020
3.5/5
Naima Simone is a talented storyteller. Her romance novels are always full of the best kind of angst and the emotional intensity hits all the right notes for me. When I discovered that Trust Fund Fiancé was a marriage-of-convenience, a god-tier trope, in my opinion, I knew I had to read the book. Zeke and Reagan were both beautifully written characters. For such a short story, I was surprised by how much room the author had to explore the depths of their characters. Reagan has grown up feeling stifled by her father's expectations of her. She had dreams of her own that she was unable to pursue them because he was also controlling the inheritance her grandmother has left her. This was where the marriage-of-convenience came in and for the most part, I thought it was executed well. The chemistry between Zeke and Reagan was scorching and the emotional intensity palpable in every scene they shared. There was a comfort level that they grew between each other that made their relationship extra swoony. That being said, there were times when I felt like the emotional baggage the two characters came with often overshadowed the romantic arc. I think if this book had been longer, it would have potentially allowed the author to explore their baggage on a deeper level without taking away from the romance. Ultimately, I still found Trust Fund Fiancé to be a good book and I definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy this trope.
CW: dead fiancée, miscarriage
Naima Simone is a talented storyteller. Her romance novels are always full of the best kind of angst and the emotional intensity hits all the right notes for me. When I discovered that Trust Fund Fiancé was a marriage-of-convenience, a god-tier trope, in my opinion, I knew I had to read the book. Zeke and Reagan were both beautifully written characters. For such a short story, I was surprised by how much room the author had to explore the depths of their characters. Reagan has grown up feeling stifled by her father's expectations of her. She had dreams of her own that she was unable to pursue them because he was also controlling the inheritance her grandmother has left her. This was where the marriage-of-convenience came in and for the most part, I thought it was executed well. The chemistry between Zeke and Reagan was scorching and the emotional intensity palpable in every scene they shared. There was a comfort level that they grew between each other that made their relationship extra swoony. That being said, there were times when I felt like the emotional baggage the two characters came with often overshadowed the romantic arc. I think if this book had been longer, it would have potentially allowed the author to explore their baggage on a deeper level without taking away from the romance. Ultimately, I still found Trust Fund Fiancé to be a good book and I definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy this trope.
CW: dead fiancée, miscarriage
September 1, 2020
Zeke and Reagan decide to marry for convenience sake, but there’s nothing at all convenient about their relationship! Family expectations, undeniable chemistry, secrets, work drama, ack! So much was happening, I didn’t know where these two were going to end up!
If you are looking for an emotion-filled, substance-packed, passionately romantic story, look no further than Naima Simone!
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley/Harlequin and this is my honest review.
If you are looking for an emotion-filled, substance-packed, passionately romantic story, look no further than Naima Simone!
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley/Harlequin and this is my honest review.
September 9, 2020
Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Apple / Amazon UK / Amazon CA
Reagan needs a fake fiancé to claim her inheritance. Ezekiel (Zeke) needs a marriage of convenience to help stifle the scandal his family is mired in. Can two friends make it work, AND keep their hearts intact?
Naima Simone always delivers the sexy and the emotion, and Reagan and Zeke give both those in spades! I loved them together, their obvious love for each other, their serious chemistry, even though Zeke waffled more than once. But most of all, I loved how Reagan finally stood up for herself and believed that she deserved better than all the men in her life had been giving her. I haven't read the other stories in this series, but after having read and loved this one, I will definitely be reading them all.
ARC via author for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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August 24, 2020
Trust Fund Fiance is a sexy marriage of convenience romance by Naima Simone, and part of the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches series.
Reagan Sinclair is tired of the machinations involved in receiving the inheritance of her grandmother’s trust fund money. She either has to be a year older, or married and she’s ready for the freedom the money will give her to continue the charity work for pregnant teens that she does on the side – a personal project dear to her heart.So when Ezekiel Holloway, a long time friend offers her a marriage of convenience to help her get the money, she leaps on the opportunity. Zeke has his own reasons for wanting a marriage to Reagan, including helping his family overcome a devastating and false scandal. Can their fake romance become something real?
I always enjoy romances by Naima Simone and this is another exciting and sexy story with interesting and complex characters. As part of the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches multi-authored series, there are secondary characters and an overall story arc that the author skillfully blends into her own story while still making this easily readable as a standalone romance.
Reagan and Zeke have a long history as friends and it makes it an easy progression to consider a marriage of convenience since they like and respect each other. But there’s also a definite attraction that leads to some sexy scenes and the eventual realization that what they have could be even more. Of course there are complications, especially with the scandals that keep rocking Zeke’s family and business and the fact that Reagan’s parents aren’t so keen on her plans. Reagan has a complicated relationship with them due to a teen pregnancy and miscarriage that the family kept hidden from the outside world, and they have issues trusting her judgment even though she’s a grown woman. Reagan and Zeke are able to share with each other their past hurts and this helps build the romantic relationship between them. Their happy ending is very satisfying and as always, I’ll be keeping my eyes out for more from this author.
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-tr...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Reagan Sinclair is tired of the machinations involved in receiving the inheritance of her grandmother’s trust fund money. She either has to be a year older, or married and she’s ready for the freedom the money will give her to continue the charity work for pregnant teens that she does on the side – a personal project dear to her heart.So when Ezekiel Holloway, a long time friend offers her a marriage of convenience to help her get the money, she leaps on the opportunity. Zeke has his own reasons for wanting a marriage to Reagan, including helping his family overcome a devastating and false scandal. Can their fake romance become something real?
I always enjoy romances by Naima Simone and this is another exciting and sexy story with interesting and complex characters. As part of the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches multi-authored series, there are secondary characters and an overall story arc that the author skillfully blends into her own story while still making this easily readable as a standalone romance.
Reagan and Zeke have a long history as friends and it makes it an easy progression to consider a marriage of convenience since they like and respect each other. But there’s also a definite attraction that leads to some sexy scenes and the eventual realization that what they have could be even more. Of course there are complications, especially with the scandals that keep rocking Zeke’s family and business and the fact that Reagan’s parents aren’t so keen on her plans. Reagan has a complicated relationship with them due to a teen pregnancy and miscarriage that the family kept hidden from the outside world, and they have issues trusting her judgment even though she’s a grown woman. Reagan and Zeke are able to share with each other their past hurts and this helps build the romantic relationship between them. Their happy ending is very satisfying and as always, I’ll be keeping my eyes out for more from this author.
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-tr...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
February 17, 2021
Fake Engagement 🚨
Zeke and Reagan have known each other for years and figure they can help each other out with a fake engagement and short term marriage, and neither plan to catch feelings (we all know how that will work out, hehe!). Zeke has experienced too much loss to trust his heart but Reagan, he knows he can trust her. Reagan has experienced both romantic and familiar betrayal and rejection but with Zeke she feels seen and cared for.
I’m a sucker for a fake engagement and this one was perfection! Not only did it have the anticipated “we won’t fall in love” plot point it was also a delicious slow burn that was beyond hot when it finally caught fire!
I also really appreciate the discussion of race, colorism, wealth, and opportunity in Texas. While it’s not a huge part of the plot it’s an important discussion in/to the story and for readers to see.
Also this is the first book I’ve finished in a single day in almost a year, and it felt marvelous!
Zeke and Reagan have known each other for years and figure they can help each other out with a fake engagement and short term marriage, and neither plan to catch feelings (we all know how that will work out, hehe!). Zeke has experienced too much loss to trust his heart but Reagan, he knows he can trust her. Reagan has experienced both romantic and familiar betrayal and rejection but with Zeke she feels seen and cared for.
I’m a sucker for a fake engagement and this one was perfection! Not only did it have the anticipated “we won’t fall in love” plot point it was also a delicious slow burn that was beyond hot when it finally caught fire!
I also really appreciate the discussion of race, colorism, wealth, and opportunity in Texas. While it’s not a huge part of the plot it’s an important discussion in/to the story and for readers to see.
Also this is the first book I’ve finished in a single day in almost a year, and it felt marvelous!
September 10, 2020
Trust Fund Fiancé is the fourth book in Harlequin’s Rags to Riches continuity series. This is a completely standalone read.
For an outsider looking in, Ezekiel “Zeke” Holloway and Reagan Sinclair have a picture-perfect life. But looks can, and in their cases are deceiving. Each have known their share of unimaginable loss, grief, and loneliness. Each puts a smile on their face as if everything in their lives is fine. Zeke is the biracial son of Nina and Robert Holloway and the nephew of Ava Holloway Wingate. After the death of his parents, Ava and Trent took him and his brother Luke in. Zeke feels he owes the Wingate family, thus he works for Wingate Enterprises and has worked his way up to becoming VP of Marketing. Reagan is the socialite daughter of Douglas Sinclair, one of the few African American members of the Texas Cattleman’s Club.
Wingate Enterprises is in the midst of a PR nightmare and is bleeding cash after a series of questionable events. Zeke is upset by the fact that he is unable to protect his family and the company he loves. He also doesn’t like the behind the back whispers of the Royal elite speculating on the fact that his family is guilty of wrongdoings. A bright light appears in the form of Reagan. Zeke recognizes pain and he sees it in her. When he finds out that in order for Reagan to gain access to her inheritance she has to be married, he proposes a marriage of convenience. Reagan agrees but feels bad for adding to Zeke’s troubles. The two end up eloping to Vegas and the start of the true love affair between Reagan and Zeke begins.
Naima Simone is known for her sassy, strong, independent heroines. Reagan is no different. She just needed the right man to come along, see who she truly was, and help her spread her wings. Zeke is different from Naima’s other heroes. He doesn’t exude alpha male like a second skin. Zeke actually wears his heart on his sleeves and ultimately isn’t afraid to show how vulnerable he truly is. I loved that these two were friendly before their agreement, but became true friends afterward.
I LOVED Trust Fund Fiancé beyond words. This book truly owns my heart. By the ending, I wasn’t sure if my heart could take anymore. I really thought it was going to explode. I've loved Naima's books before, but Trust Fund Fiancé is next level. This story deserves more than 5 stars.
~ FAVORITE QUOTES ~
“Family loyalty is a bitch.”
“Family can be our biggest blessing and our heaviest burden.”
“Life is entirely too short to deal with regrets.”
“Because of--your life lessons, you are even more precious.”
“Struggle often shapes a person, makes them stronger. It helps us be better.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a paperback copy.**
For an outsider looking in, Ezekiel “Zeke” Holloway and Reagan Sinclair have a picture-perfect life. But looks can, and in their cases are deceiving. Each have known their share of unimaginable loss, grief, and loneliness. Each puts a smile on their face as if everything in their lives is fine. Zeke is the biracial son of Nina and Robert Holloway and the nephew of Ava Holloway Wingate. After the death of his parents, Ava and Trent took him and his brother Luke in. Zeke feels he owes the Wingate family, thus he works for Wingate Enterprises and has worked his way up to becoming VP of Marketing. Reagan is the socialite daughter of Douglas Sinclair, one of the few African American members of the Texas Cattleman’s Club.
Wingate Enterprises is in the midst of a PR nightmare and is bleeding cash after a series of questionable events. Zeke is upset by the fact that he is unable to protect his family and the company he loves. He also doesn’t like the behind the back whispers of the Royal elite speculating on the fact that his family is guilty of wrongdoings. A bright light appears in the form of Reagan. Zeke recognizes pain and he sees it in her. When he finds out that in order for Reagan to gain access to her inheritance she has to be married, he proposes a marriage of convenience. Reagan agrees but feels bad for adding to Zeke’s troubles. The two end up eloping to Vegas and the start of the true love affair between Reagan and Zeke begins.
Naima Simone is known for her sassy, strong, independent heroines. Reagan is no different. She just needed the right man to come along, see who she truly was, and help her spread her wings. Zeke is different from Naima’s other heroes. He doesn’t exude alpha male like a second skin. Zeke actually wears his heart on his sleeves and ultimately isn’t afraid to show how vulnerable he truly is. I loved that these two were friendly before their agreement, but became true friends afterward.
I LOVED Trust Fund Fiancé beyond words. This book truly owns my heart. By the ending, I wasn’t sure if my heart could take anymore. I really thought it was going to explode. I've loved Naima's books before, but Trust Fund Fiancé is next level. This story deserves more than 5 stars.
~ FAVORITE QUOTES ~
“Family loyalty is a bitch.”
“Family can be our biggest blessing and our heaviest burden.”
“Life is entirely too short to deal with regrets.”
“Because of--your life lessons, you are even more precious.”
“Struggle often shapes a person, makes them stronger. It helps us be better.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a paperback copy.**
November 24, 2020
Trust Fund Fiancé was a fantastic read featuring a delightful marriage of convenience romance.
Reagan Sinclair is fed up with her father trying to control her access to her inheritance. So when her friend Ezekiel Holloway proposes they enter into a marriage in name only that would allow Reagan full access to her inheritance, Reagan jumps at the chance. But when a scandal ends the arrangement before it truly begins, Reagan makes a proposal of her own and the two elope to Vegas.
Reagan and Zeke's relationship is initially supposed to be one that's purely platonic despite both of them secretly being attracted to one another. I enjoy both tropes in this book, marriage of convenience and fake dating, so their romance was right up my alley. After their initial arrangement is ended after scandal at Zeke's family's company forces them apart, Reagan is the one who takes control and proposes going through with the marriage anyway. At that point, the chemistry between them is off the charts, and the pair give in to their attraction. The resulting scenes are incredibly steamy and overall fantastically done. When the romance inevitably hits a rough patch, I liked that it wasn't drawn out and Zeke owned up to being wrong allowing the two to work through their issues. Overall I really enjoyed the romance and thought it was well done.
The Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches series is a sub-series of the larger Texas Cattleman’s Club series that in total includes over 100 books. Quite a few scenes in the book take place at the Texas Cattleman’s Club which means there are a number of characters that appear that are from previous books in the over-arching series as well as the sub-series. I enjoyed a number of the side characters and I would definitely like to check out some of the other books to see their stories. Despite being part of a huge over-arching series Trust Fund Fiancé does stand pretty well on it's own, but I imagine if you've read some of the other books then this one would be even more enjoyable.
Overall Trust Fund Fiancé was a great read and I hope to pick up more books in the series soon as I enjoyed quite a few of the side characters.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.**
Reagan Sinclair is fed up with her father trying to control her access to her inheritance. So when her friend Ezekiel Holloway proposes they enter into a marriage in name only that would allow Reagan full access to her inheritance, Reagan jumps at the chance. But when a scandal ends the arrangement before it truly begins, Reagan makes a proposal of her own and the two elope to Vegas.
Reagan and Zeke's relationship is initially supposed to be one that's purely platonic despite both of them secretly being attracted to one another. I enjoy both tropes in this book, marriage of convenience and fake dating, so their romance was right up my alley. After their initial arrangement is ended after scandal at Zeke's family's company forces them apart, Reagan is the one who takes control and proposes going through with the marriage anyway. At that point, the chemistry between them is off the charts, and the pair give in to their attraction. The resulting scenes are incredibly steamy and overall fantastically done. When the romance inevitably hits a rough patch, I liked that it wasn't drawn out and Zeke owned up to being wrong allowing the two to work through their issues. Overall I really enjoyed the romance and thought it was well done.
The Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches series is a sub-series of the larger Texas Cattleman’s Club series that in total includes over 100 books. Quite a few scenes in the book take place at the Texas Cattleman’s Club which means there are a number of characters that appear that are from previous books in the over-arching series as well as the sub-series. I enjoyed a number of the side characters and I would definitely like to check out some of the other books to see their stories. Despite being part of a huge over-arching series Trust Fund Fiancé does stand pretty well on it's own, but I imagine if you've read some of the other books then this one would be even more enjoyable.
Overall Trust Fund Fiancé was a great read and I hope to pick up more books in the series soon as I enjoyed quite a few of the side characters.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.**
August 21, 2020
I don't particularly love category romances but I will basically read anything that Naima Simone writes. I actually enjoyed this book mainly for the heroine and the hero and who they were as individuals. I would have liked to have seen more scenes that solidified for me when and how they actually fall in love but I also understand that a category romance limits the word count and you only have so much space to play with. Given all that, I did appreciate how these two characters came together, got past their respective issues, and found their HEA.
*ARC received from author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
*ARC received from author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 10, 2020
I give this book 4,5 stars.
Naima Simone wrote a beautiful and heart wrenching romance between two people broken by their past who find each other at a time of need. It broke my heart but luckily rebuild it again.
Ezekiel and Reagan is such a beautiful couple and I just wanted so much for them to find their way though their darkness to their sunshine that is their shared love and support for each other.
Ezekiel has persuaded himself that he is unable to love ever again after having lost both of his parents and his fiancé in car accidents. He is now trying to save his family’s company from going under together with his brother, Luke.
Reagan is fighting to gain her fathers respect back after having made a huge mistake when she was sixteen, but she is also fighting for her freedom and being able to help and work for her favorite charity. Her grandmother left her an inheritance but she can only get the inheritance if she marries a suitable man which her father agrees to.
Zeke suggests that they get married so she can get her money and become happy and free and on the other hand she can make him look good in the eye of the public. It will be a marriage of convenience, just friends, no kissing or sex.
But can they stay away from each other and what happens when feelings starts to develop between them? Will her father find Zeke suitable for Reagan Or will he make it even more difficult for them to get to their happily ever after?
I loved Zeke and Reagan and their chemistry is combustible. I am just going to say the car scene on the road in the middle of fields and other cars could come by. SO HOT WOW.
I can’t wait to read the next book and I hope It is about Luke and his HEA cause I loved him and he deserves a beautiful ending to.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Naima Simone wrote a beautiful and heart wrenching romance between two people broken by their past who find each other at a time of need. It broke my heart but luckily rebuild it again.
Ezekiel and Reagan is such a beautiful couple and I just wanted so much for them to find their way though their darkness to their sunshine that is their shared love and support for each other.
Ezekiel has persuaded himself that he is unable to love ever again after having lost both of his parents and his fiancé in car accidents. He is now trying to save his family’s company from going under together with his brother, Luke.
Reagan is fighting to gain her fathers respect back after having made a huge mistake when she was sixteen, but she is also fighting for her freedom and being able to help and work for her favorite charity. Her grandmother left her an inheritance but she can only get the inheritance if she marries a suitable man which her father agrees to.
Zeke suggests that they get married so she can get her money and become happy and free and on the other hand she can make him look good in the eye of the public. It will be a marriage of convenience, just friends, no kissing or sex.
But can they stay away from each other and what happens when feelings starts to develop between them? Will her father find Zeke suitable for Reagan Or will he make it even more difficult for them to get to their happily ever after?
I loved Zeke and Reagan and their chemistry is combustible. I am just going to say the car scene on the road in the middle of fields and other cars could come by. SO HOT WOW.
I can’t wait to read the next book and I hope It is about Luke and his HEA cause I loved him and he deserves a beautiful ending to.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2021
Trust Fund Fiance is part of the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches series and like everything else from Naima Simone, it is a steamy delight.
Reagan Sinclair is the heir to receive of her grandmother’s trust fund money. Only problem is, she either has to wait one year or be married to receive the money. She works with a charity that supports pregnant teens and doesn’t want to wait another year to be able to commit to her work full-time. The solution comes to her in the form of Ezekiel Holloway, her long-time friend, with whom she arranges a marriage of convenience.
Zeke agrees to marry Reagan in the hopes of helping his family overcome a crushing scandal, so it’s a win-win for everyone, if only they can keep those pesky romantic feelings from threatening to tank their best-laid plans.
Reagan and Zeke both come from a place of deep hurt involving their families, especially Reagan, who has her own secrets that her family won’t let her forget. The emotional journey for these characters is to arrive at a place where they can share these traumas, leaning on their long friendship as well as their mutual feelings to achieve a happy ending that is deeply satisfying.
Naima Simone is one of the best at writing complex characters and sexy situations in the tight space of a category romance. While this novel reads well as a standalone, it’s part of a shared universe featuring contributions from multiple authors (The Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches). Simone does a great job of incorporating compelling secondary characters and fusing her story with the larger storyline, and never leaves you wondering what’s happening.
ARC provided by NetGalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reagan Sinclair is the heir to receive of her grandmother’s trust fund money. Only problem is, she either has to wait one year or be married to receive the money. She works with a charity that supports pregnant teens and doesn’t want to wait another year to be able to commit to her work full-time. The solution comes to her in the form of Ezekiel Holloway, her long-time friend, with whom she arranges a marriage of convenience.
Zeke agrees to marry Reagan in the hopes of helping his family overcome a crushing scandal, so it’s a win-win for everyone, if only they can keep those pesky romantic feelings from threatening to tank their best-laid plans.
Reagan and Zeke both come from a place of deep hurt involving their families, especially Reagan, who has her own secrets that her family won’t let her forget. The emotional journey for these characters is to arrive at a place where they can share these traumas, leaning on their long friendship as well as their mutual feelings to achieve a happy ending that is deeply satisfying.
Naima Simone is one of the best at writing complex characters and sexy situations in the tight space of a category romance. While this novel reads well as a standalone, it’s part of a shared universe featuring contributions from multiple authors (The Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches). Simone does a great job of incorporating compelling secondary characters and fusing her story with the larger storyline, and never leaves you wondering what’s happening.
ARC provided by NetGalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2021
The beginning was rough going - the writing felt a little overwrought. We’re introduced to our hero brooding, and while the heroine shows up fairly quickly to prod him a little, there’s a loooot of exposition in between and it’s written in language like, “Anything to reinforce that she wasn’t one of the women whose front doors would witness his walks of shame.” On the other hand, the hero is also described as “a man with a slowly crumbling business empire and more emotional baggage than the airplanes [his family company] manufactured,” which is like A++ category romance cheese.
Anyway, once we get into the heroine - with her overbearing albeit beloved parents and her desperate need to access her trust funds - the book perks up a lot. I tend to be a heroine-centric reader, and Reagan is a great one - Simone doesn’t waste our time making her perfect, she goes ahead and gives her an actual past and flaws. Zeke, on the other hand, has not only a bunch of business drama but a tragically dead fiancee which feels a little like overkill.
In general I enjoyed this, but it felt like it moved forward in lurches. When the plot was moving along - someone’s being a jerk, actual conversations are happening, whatever - it was really fun, but whenever the leads, particularly Zeke, get too deep into their own heads, it just feels like I’m getting hit over the head with Tragic Exposition. It’s where Reagan and Zeke’s marriage becomes real that Simone really hits her stride. (“You have nothing to be ashamed of, so don’t look down while you give me your truth.” OMG.) Over all, a fun read, but nothing I'm going to return to.
Anyway, once we get into the heroine - with her overbearing albeit beloved parents and her desperate need to access her trust funds - the book perks up a lot. I tend to be a heroine-centric reader, and Reagan is a great one - Simone doesn’t waste our time making her perfect, she goes ahead and gives her an actual past and flaws. Zeke, on the other hand, has not only a bunch of business drama but a tragically dead fiancee which feels a little like overkill.
In general I enjoyed this, but it felt like it moved forward in lurches. When the plot was moving along - someone’s being a jerk, actual conversations are happening, whatever - it was really fun, but whenever the leads, particularly Zeke, get too deep into their own heads, it just feels like I’m getting hit over the head with Tragic Exposition. It’s where Reagan and Zeke’s marriage becomes real that Simone really hits her stride. (“You have nothing to be ashamed of, so don’t look down while you give me your truth.” OMG.) Over all, a fun read, but nothing I'm going to return to.
September 11, 2020
Trust Fund Fiancé by Naima Simone
Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches #
Harlequin Desire romance with a marriage of convenience trope sees Ezekiel “Zeke” Holloway offer marriage to Reagan “Ray” Sinclair so she can access the trust fun her grandmother bequeathed her. What was supposed to be polite and platonic moves on to more but of course, as must happen in this type of book, there is a glitch or two to overcome before the couple can achieve their HEA ending.
I was able to follow the romance of Zeke & Ray without having read previous books in the series BUT do believe having more of the backstory related to the Wingate family might have been helpful. The issues the Wingates and Holloways are facing were not resolved but became even worse before the story ended and I do wonder how things will eventually work out for them. My gut feeling is that someone is out to destroy them or take over the company or something like that but there is not enough information to know for sure.
Reagan and Ezekiel have known one another since they were young, are friends, met through his cousin/her friend, and they both have a trauma from the past that haunts them in the present. The two are perfect for one another if/when they finally communicate, face and then overcome those issues from the past.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to Booksprout/the author for the copy of this book ~ This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Texas Cattleman’s Club: Rags to Riches #
Harlequin Desire romance with a marriage of convenience trope sees Ezekiel “Zeke” Holloway offer marriage to Reagan “Ray” Sinclair so she can access the trust fun her grandmother bequeathed her. What was supposed to be polite and platonic moves on to more but of course, as must happen in this type of book, there is a glitch or two to overcome before the couple can achieve their HEA ending.
I was able to follow the romance of Zeke & Ray without having read previous books in the series BUT do believe having more of the backstory related to the Wingate family might have been helpful. The issues the Wingates and Holloways are facing were not resolved but became even worse before the story ended and I do wonder how things will eventually work out for them. My gut feeling is that someone is out to destroy them or take over the company or something like that but there is not enough information to know for sure.
Reagan and Ezekiel have known one another since they were young, are friends, met through his cousin/her friend, and they both have a trauma from the past that haunts them in the present. The two are perfect for one another if/when they finally communicate, face and then overcome those issues from the past.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to Booksprout/the author for the copy of this book ~ This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
February 19, 2021
Reagan Sinclair and Ezekiel Holloway known each other for most of their lives but as his cousin's friend, she's always been off-limits to him. They both grew up in the high society and had their heart broken, but in different way. Regan have a big project but to start it, she needs her grandma's inheritance. To get it, she either have to marry or wait until she turn thirty. Ezekiel is the marketing VP of a company who doesn't have good reputation these days. So what started as a fake engagement to help a friend will soon turn into a whirlwind of desire and feelings neither expected.
First of all, I love the name of the hero. And it fit perfectly with his hot tempered personality. Zeke also had a sweet side that made my heart go pitty-patter a few times. Like what he tell Reagan and the compassion and understanding he show to her when he learn about a secret from her past. Or even just the fact he's so in tune with her. And I absolutely adore that she was just as protective of him as he was of her. This is why I read romance novels. For moments like these and characters like Ezekiel and Reagan.
First of all, I love the name of the hero. And it fit perfectly with his hot tempered personality. Zeke also had a sweet side that made my heart go pitty-patter a few times. Like what he tell Reagan and the compassion and understanding he show to her when he learn about a secret from her past. Or even just the fact he's so in tune with her. And I absolutely adore that she was just as protective of him as he was of her. This is why I read romance novels. For moments like these and characters like Ezekiel and Reagan.
September 20, 2020
Reagan comes from an affluent family however she has grown weary of trying to live the life her parents expect her to lead and never being able to please them. She wants access to the inheritance from her grandmother so that she can chart her own course but for that to happen she needs to either be 30 or married.
Ezekiel is a man who has endured more loss than anyone should have to and if that isn’t enough the family business is under siege. He suggests an arrangement with his friend Reagan that is more merger than marriage which will give her the freedom she desires and will help him overcome the negative media scrutiny he and his family are facing.
It isn’t long before the chemistry between Reagan and Ezekiel ignites and they realize that their feelings for each other run much deeper than friends but between their own insecurities and the machinations of others their journey isn’t without its challenges.
Ezekiel is a man who has endured more loss than anyone should have to and if that isn’t enough the family business is under siege. He suggests an arrangement with his friend Reagan that is more merger than marriage which will give her the freedom she desires and will help him overcome the negative media scrutiny he and his family are facing.
It isn’t long before the chemistry between Reagan and Ezekiel ignites and they realize that their feelings for each other run much deeper than friends but between their own insecurities and the machinations of others their journey isn’t without its challenges.
Read
November 21, 2020DNF @ 57% Never read a Mills and Boon book before, but liked Naima Simone’s other books, so gave it a go, but I just couldn’t. It was an anti-catnip book for me - woman in her twenties still being shamed by her parents for a teenage mistake, and even though she could move out and be independent, she stays at home, swallows the criticism and guilt until she can get her inheritance that her father controls. Cue guy who she has known for ever, ‘fake engagement’ despite his issues but mad attraction between them which was Insta. And did I mention she’s grown, but he’s all ‘Oh no precious petal we can’t do totally consensual naughty stuff in the night’ and then they elope. Nope nope nope for me.
Never getting another M&B book either.
Never getting another M&B book either.
July 28, 2020
Bam! Trust Fund Fiancé sucked me in from page one and wouldn’t let go! What a great book! Zeke and Reagan are great! A strong sexy alpha male and a strong sassy female? Great chemistry. Scandal, drama, mystery, and sexy times all rolled into one amazing book. I loved it.
January 4, 2021
Good book. I don't know if the author is setting the stage for a sequel but I'd really like to know what happened with Zeke's company. Does his brother get the receptionist? Who is the father of Harley's baby? Too many unanswered questions but I enjoyed the writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
paused
September 17, 2020I'm going to love this one!
February 18, 2025
This felt like it was a good idea but needed more development.
August 17, 2020
I adore this author's words, and this book was no exception. I love a marriage of convenience trope! But, this ongoing multi-author series thing just isn't my favorite. I never end up getting some of the mysteries solved, if I don't want to read 7 other books, by different authors.
Ezekiel Holloway is part of the rich and powerful Wingate family of Royal, Texas. But, he's never felt completely like he fit in with them, especially after the deaths of his parents when he was in college. So, he and his older brother Luke are all the family he really has left. But, he does work for the family business, and it is currently going through a serious rough patch. It's created quite the stir in their small town, and he and Luke are struggling to set things right.
Reagan Sinclair wants to be free. She's spent the last 10 years bowing to everything her parents wanted her to do, ever since she made a huge mistake at 16 that they've never forgiven her for. Her grandmother left her a sizable inheritance, but she can't access it until she's married to a "suitable" man, or she turns 30. She has no interest in waiting 4 more years to be able to do what she wants with her life, but she also doesn't have any interest in marrying any of the stable of men her parents have paraded in front of her the last couple years. So, what's a girl to do?
Zeke and Reagan's chemistry was off the charts, but they also just genuinely LIKED each other. They had been friendly a long time, and she had been his cousin's best friend when they were growing up, though he was 4 years older. They wanted to help each other in any way they could, which was why Zeke came up with the marriage idea to start with. He really wanted to help her, and was able to convince her that she'd be helping him too.
There were definitely some interesting side characters here, some of whom have books that already exist, and others whose books are yet to come in the series, including Zeke's brother, Luke. I really loved him, and I pegged his assistant as his heroine, and it appears that will be the case! We also sneaked a peek in this book of Zeke's aunt Piper, and her younger man hero, who will appear in a future book as well!
There was an ongoing mystery storyline with all the bad things happening with the Wingate family's company, and how it appeared someone might be setting them up, but there was no resolution to that part. I assume it will be resolved further along in the series.
This story was full of tropey goodness, and I adored watching these 2 wounded hearts fall hard for each other, while trying desperately not to. If you love this author, or these soapy, wealthy family sagas, you should definitely jump on this train, but you better read ALL of the books if you want all of the answers you seek.
Content Warning for mentions of pregnancy loss, and mentions of the sudden death of loved ones.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
Ezekiel Holloway is part of the rich and powerful Wingate family of Royal, Texas. But, he's never felt completely like he fit in with them, especially after the deaths of his parents when he was in college. So, he and his older brother Luke are all the family he really has left. But, he does work for the family business, and it is currently going through a serious rough patch. It's created quite the stir in their small town, and he and Luke are struggling to set things right.
Reagan Sinclair wants to be free. She's spent the last 10 years bowing to everything her parents wanted her to do, ever since she made a huge mistake at 16 that they've never forgiven her for. Her grandmother left her a sizable inheritance, but she can't access it until she's married to a "suitable" man, or she turns 30. She has no interest in waiting 4 more years to be able to do what she wants with her life, but she also doesn't have any interest in marrying any of the stable of men her parents have paraded in front of her the last couple years. So, what's a girl to do?
Zeke and Reagan's chemistry was off the charts, but they also just genuinely LIKED each other. They had been friendly a long time, and she had been his cousin's best friend when they were growing up, though he was 4 years older. They wanted to help each other in any way they could, which was why Zeke came up with the marriage idea to start with. He really wanted to help her, and was able to convince her that she'd be helping him too.
There were definitely some interesting side characters here, some of whom have books that already exist, and others whose books are yet to come in the series, including Zeke's brother, Luke. I really loved him, and I pegged his assistant as his heroine, and it appears that will be the case! We also sneaked a peek in this book of Zeke's aunt Piper, and her younger man hero, who will appear in a future book as well!
There was an ongoing mystery storyline with all the bad things happening with the Wingate family's company, and how it appeared someone might be setting them up, but there was no resolution to that part. I assume it will be resolved further along in the series.
This story was full of tropey goodness, and I adored watching these 2 wounded hearts fall hard for each other, while trying desperately not to. If you love this author, or these soapy, wealthy family sagas, you should definitely jump on this train, but you better read ALL of the books if you want all of the answers you seek.
Content Warning for mentions of pregnancy loss, and mentions of the sudden death of loved ones.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
September 5, 2020
Reagan Sinclair was born into a wealthy, influential family from Texas. Until she was 16 years old, she was also daddy’s little girl. One mistake made, due to love, ruined her relationship with her family from then on. She was under watch, essentially, by her parents. Unable to also make decisions for herself as she became an adult without running it by her parents. She grew up around other wealthy families including the Wingates. Harley Wingate and Reagan were childhood best friends but when Reagan’s parents sent her away one summer without even a goodbye, everyone noticed including Ezekiel Holloway. Nobody knew why and it remained a secret, even when she came back to town not too long after. Zeke always noticed his younger cousin’s friend but not in the way she noticed him. Being a bit older, he saw Reagan with acne and braces and then one night as a beautiful woman.
However, as beautiful as she may have been Reagan’s life was still being controlled by her father including her inheritance. She didn’t want to get married but father dearest wanted her to meet a ‘suitable’ man, get married and then she was allowed to have her inheritance that was left to her by her grandmother. While at a formal affair, she encounters Zeke and they begin to talk. The inheritance situation comes up and the marriage of convenience is born. Zeke, his heart still mending from a tragedy that had taken place years prior, knows his role and makes it clear that he doesn’t want love to exist in his and Reagan’s arrangement. She understood, having experienced her own pain in love. With Reagan’s strong attitude, will to make her own decisions in her life and Zeke’s appreciation of & dedication to strong women, love might just make its appearance. You’ll have to read to find out.
I enjoyed this book so much. I appreciated Zeke and his admiration for strong women especially Reagan. I loved that he gave her space and time to open up to him about what happened in her life. I loved that Reagan didn’t put up with Zeke’s self loathing and she put him in his place when needed. It was a magical combination of personalities. I believe that when a person can allow the other space & time in a relationship to open up, the love will be more appreciated. There was a sense of maturity to it. The steam factor...whew, I can’t look at the hood of a car the same now. One can dream to be put in that position. ;) It was a quick read but had depth to it that made you think about how relationships evolve from being teenagers to adults as well. If you’re looking for something with emotions, sex, scandal but not too much and love, this is the one for you.
However, as beautiful as she may have been Reagan’s life was still being controlled by her father including her inheritance. She didn’t want to get married but father dearest wanted her to meet a ‘suitable’ man, get married and then she was allowed to have her inheritance that was left to her by her grandmother. While at a formal affair, she encounters Zeke and they begin to talk. The inheritance situation comes up and the marriage of convenience is born. Zeke, his heart still mending from a tragedy that had taken place years prior, knows his role and makes it clear that he doesn’t want love to exist in his and Reagan’s arrangement. She understood, having experienced her own pain in love. With Reagan’s strong attitude, will to make her own decisions in her life and Zeke’s appreciation of & dedication to strong women, love might just make its appearance. You’ll have to read to find out.
I enjoyed this book so much. I appreciated Zeke and his admiration for strong women especially Reagan. I loved that he gave her space and time to open up to him about what happened in her life. I loved that Reagan didn’t put up with Zeke’s self loathing and she put him in his place when needed. It was a magical combination of personalities. I believe that when a person can allow the other space & time in a relationship to open up, the love will be more appreciated. There was a sense of maturity to it. The steam factor...whew, I can’t look at the hood of a car the same now. One can dream to be put in that position. ;) It was a quick read but had depth to it that made you think about how relationships evolve from being teenagers to adults as well. If you’re looking for something with emotions, sex, scandal but not too much and love, this is the one for you.
August 19, 2020
This was my first Harlequin novel and I really enjoyed it. I had read other work from Naima Simone so I was excited to read this one as well. I did receive and ARC from NetGalley and Harlequin but my review is my honest opinion.
This was a marriage of convenience trope done well. Reagan and Ezekiel are friends because Reagan is best friends with his cousin so they have that connection. The friendship between Reagan and Ezekiel only gets stronger as the novel progresses and I really liked how they continued to have that as their foundation. They felt more like partners and equals rather than one dominating the other.
Both characters were strong people and I really enjoyed seeing such a strong heroine especially given Reagan’s past trauma and current family issues. Ezekiel was really encouraging and supported Reagan’s dreams and really pushed her to succeed and I like seeing that from a hero. He also helped her move on from her past once she finally confided in him and got that weight off her shoulders. Some of my favorite highlights/quotes in this book were in regards to this. “...though her past might have shaped the woman she’d become, she was not the sum of her mistakes” is one of my favorite quotes in the book. Reagan’s relationship with her dad and how it plays out was such a good added component to this story.
Ezekiel went through some trauma that caused him to be closed off in the love department but I felt like he was still able to have an emotional connection with Reagan even in the beginning and not be cold about it which we don’t always see when there is past loss.
There were a few times the pacing felt off which is the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars. Things would be progressing at a certain speed like with their feelings for each other for example and then bam, the conflict explodes and their feelings are apparently way stronger than a few pages before. Things like that. This may have just been me though and not everyone would see it this way.
However, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to others! I definitely want to pick up the next books in the series and go back and read others involving the Texas Cattleman’s Club.
Trigger/content warnings for: talk of pregnancy, miscarriage, loss of a loved one
This was a marriage of convenience trope done well. Reagan and Ezekiel are friends because Reagan is best friends with his cousin so they have that connection. The friendship between Reagan and Ezekiel only gets stronger as the novel progresses and I really liked how they continued to have that as their foundation. They felt more like partners and equals rather than one dominating the other.
Both characters were strong people and I really enjoyed seeing such a strong heroine especially given Reagan’s past trauma and current family issues. Ezekiel was really encouraging and supported Reagan’s dreams and really pushed her to succeed and I like seeing that from a hero. He also helped her move on from her past once she finally confided in him and got that weight off her shoulders. Some of my favorite highlights/quotes in this book were in regards to this. “...though her past might have shaped the woman she’d become, she was not the sum of her mistakes” is one of my favorite quotes in the book. Reagan’s relationship with her dad and how it plays out was such a good added component to this story.
Ezekiel went through some trauma that caused him to be closed off in the love department but I felt like he was still able to have an emotional connection with Reagan even in the beginning and not be cold about it which we don’t always see when there is past loss.
There were a few times the pacing felt off which is the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars. Things would be progressing at a certain speed like with their feelings for each other for example and then bam, the conflict explodes and their feelings are apparently way stronger than a few pages before. Things like that. This may have just been me though and not everyone would see it this way.
However, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to others! I definitely want to pick up the next books in the series and go back and read others involving the Texas Cattleman’s Club.
Trigger/content warnings for: talk of pregnancy, miscarriage, loss of a loved one
September 5, 2020
I really enjoyed enjoyed this storyline of Friends to Lovers. The characters were so well developed and I could feel their up and down rollercoaster emotions. The pain of Reagan Sinclair’s past hurts by her teenage love crush leaving her and her parents disappointments of her life choices. Ezekiel Holloway’s past hurts of losing his parents during his late teens and long time girlfriend Melissa to death in his early twenties.
Now Ezekiel is helping to run the Wingate family business with his brother Luke and someone is trying to bring down the company. In the meantime Reagan wants to get her grandmother's inheritance she left Reagan so she can open a home for unwed pregnant girls. The downside is there is a stipulations that Reagan is married to a suitable man that Reagan's father approves of or she has to wait another 4 years until she is 30 to receive her inheritance.
Ezekiel comes up with the idea that him and Reagan get married so she can get her inheritance and after a year or two they can divorce no strings attached to each other.
I love the way both Ezekiel and Reagan had a friendship with each other but because of both of their past hurts both didn't know how to let go.
There were times I wanted to cry which is not me when reading a book, choke the crap out of Reagan's parents especially her father, slap some sense into both Ezekiel and Reagan at times and those love scenes WOW.
My attention was held from the beginning until the end and I was left wanting more and not the end. I hope the author will write a second book because I can see some more stories from Reagan and Ezekiel along with Luke, Aunt Ava and Aunt Piper.
I highly recommend this book to read especially if you love a page turning romance, steamy, friends to lovers family drama storyline.
Cassandra H.
I received a ARC copy for my voluntary review. My review is of my own honest opinion and thoughts.
Now Ezekiel is helping to run the Wingate family business with his brother Luke and someone is trying to bring down the company. In the meantime Reagan wants to get her grandmother's inheritance she left Reagan so she can open a home for unwed pregnant girls. The downside is there is a stipulations that Reagan is married to a suitable man that Reagan's father approves of or she has to wait another 4 years until she is 30 to receive her inheritance.
Ezekiel comes up with the idea that him and Reagan get married so she can get her inheritance and after a year or two they can divorce no strings attached to each other.
I love the way both Ezekiel and Reagan had a friendship with each other but because of both of their past hurts both didn't know how to let go.
There were times I wanted to cry which is not me when reading a book, choke the crap out of Reagan's parents especially her father, slap some sense into both Ezekiel and Reagan at times and those love scenes WOW.
My attention was held from the beginning until the end and I was left wanting more and not the end. I hope the author will write a second book because I can see some more stories from Reagan and Ezekiel along with Luke, Aunt Ava and Aunt Piper.
I highly recommend this book to read especially if you love a page turning romance, steamy, friends to lovers family drama storyline.
Cassandra H.
I received a ARC copy for my voluntary review. My review is of my own honest opinion and thoughts.
August 31, 2020
4.5 Hot and Sweet Stars!
Wow! Another hot read from Naima Simone! With a marriage of convenience/forbidden romance between friends that turns into so much more, this was a quick, satisfying read!
Ezekiel Holloway was so perfect in so many ways! He’s smart, sexy, and so very sweet. Reagan was just a genuinely nice person who is trying to find her way and I loved watching her learn to stand up for herself and take charge of her life. Together these two not only could set the pages on fire, but they could melt your heart with their caring and concern for each other and those around them. They are both dealing with issues that have defined their outlook on love, and when the added burden of society and class expectations come into play, the have more than their share of challenges when it comes to being together - the biggest being Reagan’s father, also affectionately known as Douglas Stick-Up-His A$$ Sinclair.
This is part of an ongoing series but can be read as a stand-alone - but now I am very curious to learn more about the scandal at Wingate Enterprises and some of the characters that have been introduced. The length of the book was fairly short, so it was a quick read, but Naima Simone does a great job adding emotion and heart into every page which allowed for just enough character development and plot development to keep me fully engaged throughout. And I can’t say enough about some of the dialogue that the author has created - Zeke was just so sweet and supportive and I loved so many of the things that he said throughout this book!
Another well-written story by Naima Simone that I would recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book I received from the Publisher on NetGalley.
Wow! Another hot read from Naima Simone! With a marriage of convenience/forbidden romance between friends that turns into so much more, this was a quick, satisfying read!
Ezekiel Holloway was so perfect in so many ways! He’s smart, sexy, and so very sweet. Reagan was just a genuinely nice person who is trying to find her way and I loved watching her learn to stand up for herself and take charge of her life. Together these two not only could set the pages on fire, but they could melt your heart with their caring and concern for each other and those around them. They are both dealing with issues that have defined their outlook on love, and when the added burden of society and class expectations come into play, the have more than their share of challenges when it comes to being together - the biggest being Reagan’s father, also affectionately known as Douglas Stick-Up-His A$$ Sinclair.
This is part of an ongoing series but can be read as a stand-alone - but now I am very curious to learn more about the scandal at Wingate Enterprises and some of the characters that have been introduced. The length of the book was fairly short, so it was a quick read, but Naima Simone does a great job adding emotion and heart into every page which allowed for just enough character development and plot development to keep me fully engaged throughout. And I can’t say enough about some of the dialogue that the author has created - Zeke was just so sweet and supportive and I loved so many of the things that he said throughout this book!
Another well-written story by Naima Simone that I would recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book I received from the Publisher on NetGalley.
September 1, 2020
Loved this short but steamy affair!
Reagan is being denied her grandmother's inheritance because of mistakes made a decade ago. Ezekiel, a man whose family runs in the same circles as hers, offers to marry her to meet the will's stipulations so she can pursue her dreams. Not everything goes as planned, of course, giving us an angsty drama that centers on issues of self-reliance and moving beyond grief.
I enjoyed the romance part of the book very much. Zeke and Ray are most themselves when it's just the two of them, and I loved how they found strength with each other, especially since they each had some serious storms to face in their lives. I wasn't terribly happy with the portrayal of her parents, but in a novella there isn't always room to fully develop every secondary character.
As the fourth book in this series but the only one I've read, the background drama surrounding the Wingate company is presented as though the reader already understands previous events, and it doesn't resolve any of those issues in this book. We do get a very satisfying, heartfelt HEA for Reagan and Ezekiel, though I was hoping for a bit more follow-through with her plans and his surprise windfall.
If you just want the romance, this book has the whole enchilada and works as a terrific standalone. If you want to follow the corporate drama that appears to be strewn throughout the series, you'll definitely need to read the rest of the series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Reagan is being denied her grandmother's inheritance because of mistakes made a decade ago. Ezekiel, a man whose family runs in the same circles as hers, offers to marry her to meet the will's stipulations so she can pursue her dreams. Not everything goes as planned, of course, giving us an angsty drama that centers on issues of self-reliance and moving beyond grief.
I enjoyed the romance part of the book very much. Zeke and Ray are most themselves when it's just the two of them, and I loved how they found strength with each other, especially since they each had some serious storms to face in their lives. I wasn't terribly happy with the portrayal of her parents, but in a novella there isn't always room to fully develop every secondary character.
As the fourth book in this series but the only one I've read, the background drama surrounding the Wingate company is presented as though the reader already understands previous events, and it doesn't resolve any of those issues in this book. We do get a very satisfying, heartfelt HEA for Reagan and Ezekiel, though I was hoping for a bit more follow-through with her plans and his surprise windfall.
If you just want the romance, this book has the whole enchilada and works as a terrific standalone. If you want to follow the corporate drama that appears to be strewn throughout the series, you'll definitely need to read the rest of the series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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