He wants a hooker for one night only. She needs money fast for her grandad's operation. Will it be a crashing success or a fizzled-out candle? By allowing others to arrange the finer details of the rendezvous it could be either!
Yorkshire lass born and bred needs money for her Grandad Thomas who is in pain and the cost of an operation on his bad knee is way beyond the family’s means. Leah tries everything to earn the fee – but in the end, and like so many before her, she turns to the world’s oldest profession. Madame Butterfly’s exclusive escort agency in London is a different world to where Leah comes from. In Whitby, the sea air is sweet, and legends of Dracula jostle with jet-mining and whaling history; it’s a place where dog lovers meet and tourists come to marvel at the views. Leah may be out of her comfort zone, but one daring, brief encounter will bring many surprises in this memorable romantic comedy full of pithy Yorkshire humour. *Top 10, Amazon/Kindle/General Humour, Feb 2020* Gracie Bond is an award-winning writer, she won the Film Maker's International Screen Play award for Best Comedy in 2016 with this story.
Leah is desperate to give her Grandad the operation he so desperately needs.
After trying so many ideas to raise the money they just don't seem to be making a dent in the amount they need!
So with the help of her cousin Joey they come up with a wild idea of visiting Madam Butterfly Escort Agency.
It's here Leah gets her first client Dan. He is rich, handsome and makes Leah feel amazing. After a passionate night, Dan leaves Leah with a little more than a wad full of cash!
I really enjoyed Anything For Love but the only thing that stopped this being 5☆ was how much the story fast forward. I felt like I missed out on so much potential storyline it left me a little disappointed. The plot was so clever and the characters were so Endearing I just wanted more!
However Anything For Love is a lovely, warm, fun, very humorous, Witty Romance. With a heart warming storyline and loveable characters. I'm looking forward to reading more from Gracie Bond!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I enjoyed this quirky tale, there was a good dose of humour which is always appreciated. There is mention of my favourite area in the UK, Northumberland and this has made me yearn for a trip there, via Whitby.
I do feel that the story is too long. Don’t get me wrong, every part has it’s place in the book, but it would have been a more pleasant read if it had been shorter, and the story would still have worked with less content.
Having said that, there was a lot happening in what, at it’s heart is a love story. Leah and her cousin are trying desperately to help their grandfather afford a private operation. After trying various zany methods to raise money for him Leah goes to an even more drastic length.
The plot was wonderfully creative and I fully appreciated Ms Bond’s style of humour.
I love the cover for this book – it is perfect for the story!
I thought that the setting was great and the characters were well developed and they worked together perfectly. I warmed to the characters from the outset too and that really helped my enjoyment of the story.
The pace was really good and I was able to dip in and out of the story too without losing track, the plot was detailed but not overly complex so it was perfect for me to read on my lunch at work and I was happily able to escape to Whitby! We have been there a few times and it is just as lovely as the book makes out and we can’t wait to go back – the book has encouraged me to get there sooner too!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what she releases next!
If your favoured reading material is a compelling tale with a good sprinkling of humour, action, determination, positive attitude, imperfection, bitchiness, evil, love and relationships then Anything for Love by Gracie Bond is a must-read for you as you will adore this book!
Goodness me; from the get-go there was so much happening in this wonderful tale of love and romance! I was totally smitten with protagonist Leah and her amazing zest for life. Author, Gracie Bond had really worked wonders with all of the characters in this fabulous story and I was very fond of most of them: Leah’s Granddad,Thomas; her cousin, Joey; her son,Tom and the sophisticated billionaire and businessman, Dan to name only a few. Even the less personable ones - particularly Chelsea - still had very good parts to play and did not dampen my enthusiasm for this fascinating tale.
Dan’s personal assistant, the catty, smiling assassin Chelsea, had serious behavioural problems in my humble opinion and her levels of bitchiness, nastiness, jealousy, possessiveness and evil were astonishing; on several occasions, I found myself wishing that I could cheerfully throttle her, so it was just as well she was fictional character!
Aside from the brilliant cast of characters, another selling point of Anything For Love for me was its fabulous setting; Whitby, Yorkshire. Although I have never stayed there, I have visited a few times and Gracie Bond had a wonderful way of describing the ambiance of the place, the surrounding area and the general way of life of the townsfolk.
The plot was awesome and moved along at a really wicked pace and I loved the author’s general writing-style. There was no room for repetitiveness or boredom here!
The story was, for the most part, absolutely hilarious and witty and there so many laugh-out-loud moments. There were however, some serious issues as well, such as coping with with absent parents, dealing with awkward relationships and single parenthood. I was completely drawn into this novel right from the start, relishing all of the absolutely priceless scenes and also the slightly shocking ones.
I was rooting all the way through, not just for Leah herself, but for most of the other delightful characters also and Gracie Bond rounded things off so masterfully which I fully appreciated. It was very hard to say goodbye to them and I found myself wishing (nearly) all of of them well for the future.
I think this author is a force to be reckoned with and I am eagerly awaiting her next contribution. I recommend Anything for Love without a flicker of hesitation, so don’t miss out!
Thank you to Gracie Bond and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read this book. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
If I’m going to recommend a book – and, in case you doubt it, I really am! – I think it’s only fair to mention some of its features I wasn’t so keen on, don’t you? This book is far, far too long at 477 pages – and if there was an editor involved, I suspect they’re now lying in a corner somewhere, wondering where it all went wrong. Calling it “a Whitby romance” is a distinct disappointment, as most of the action takes place elsewhere – and that dog-friendly cafe idea, prominent on the lovely cover, largely disappears beneath the weight of everything else going on. There’s a gay character – Joey, Leah’s cousin – whose camp portrayal rather feels like a throwback to the 1970s. And throwing absolutely everything you love into a book – the dogs, the horses, the Northumberland beach, even the nod to Jane Austen – without at some point calling “enough” can be a mistake.
But all that said – and Gracie, I do apologise – I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I might have been a little limp by the end – the pace is frenetic and relentless – but I suspect this pensioner reader was probably never really part of its target audience. Its sheer exuberance and enthusiasm is highly contagious, but the thing I loved most about it was its heart. There’s so much family in the book – the motivation for Leah’s early actions, her love between her and Grandad Thomas, the mother/child relationship, the importance of the father/child relationship, Dan’s relationship with his mother – and it’s all exceptionally well done.
And as for the story itself – there was imagination, originality and invention, and a few developments and set pieces that quite took my breath away (and not just the wing-walking, bungee jumping and water-skiing stunts…). I loved the developing relationship at the story’s core – unlikely, fraught with complications, heading for the rocks at times, but rarely less than strong and convincing. The key characters (yes, even the slightly suspect Joey) really win your heart: there are others who are rarely more than caricatures, particularly the baddies, but I thought that was entirely forgivable. And as for the ever-present humour, with its distinctive Yorkshire accent – well, there were times when even this miserable old sod found herself whooping and laughing out loud.
The book might not have been quite what I was expecting, but I’m happy to shout out loud that I really did enjoy it. I’m so glad I joined the tour and read the book, and I will look forward to trying a book by Gracie Bond again – but please, make it around 350 pages long, a slightly simpler story, and one that won’t leave me feeling quite as exhausted!
I admit I’ve been procrastinating over this review. I enjoyed this book, but I didn’t love it like I thought I would. Please don’t hate me *ducks*.
It was Leah’s love for her grandfather that first drew me to the story. My Papa Ernie meant the world to me and I don’t think there is anything I wouldn’t have done for him if he was in need. He was a grandad, father figure and best friend all rolled into one. Although, knowing my luck, if I followed Leah’s plan, they’d probably want me to pay them *snorts*.
As I’ve said, I enjoyed the story (if a bit rushed at the beginning for me) and the characters. Most especially Joey and Ruby. Both had some of the best ‘laugh out loud’ lines in the book. You’d need to be on your game to banter with these two, I’ll tell ya!
The villain of the piece made me feel very stabby. She makes Cruella de Vil look like a saint! But herein lies my struggle. I couldn’t understand why the H couldn’t see what was right in front of his face. It was making me agitated. Regardless of what the others said, he was blind to it.
Grrr!
I was tempted to lob my kindle a couple of times.
*shakes head*
You don’t need to tell me I have issues.
Anyhoo, *waves hand* enough about that... I just don’t like it when a story and I don’t gel completely. I definitely think on this occasion it was a case of, it’s not the book, it’s me.
I will say one thing – the added twist near the end was clever, if a bit ‘Whaaa?’
Alright, enough of my faffin’, I’m signing off as I’m gasping for a brew!
Leah Jensen loves her grandfather. She would do anything for him. When his body begins to fail and he needs an operation, she and her cousin Joey must find a way to raise the money necessary to cover the costs insurance won't. They only have a few short weeks to come up with the cash, so desperate measures are required. They try everything they can think of, from dog walking to ski shows and even wing walking. Finally, as a last ditch effort, Leah takes a walk on the wild side. It is for Grandpa! As fate would have it, Leah's desperate leap of fate literally drops her into another woman's trap for rich bachelor Dan. By the time Leah knows the full impact of her actions, Dan has moved away but is never forgotten. Leah takes her moxy and bonus and builds her own empire. Until that fateful day when she has a new man in her life, one for whom she would do anything, and goes in search of Dan to fulfill another quest.
This book has a humorous edge to it that will keep you smiling and wondering what can go wrong next. The characters are delightful and colorful. You will be rooting for the underdog and want to shake and slap various people as you turn the pages.
Once you get to the end... well, when is is it truly the end?
Once I had realised that this was one of those stories where I was going to have to totally suspend disbelief, I found it to be a totally enjoyable read! Leah's attitude to life is refreshing and she is a great combination of her independent streak and her deep love and loyalty for her family. The parts of the story which are set in her hometown of Whitby uses the imposing setting beautifully, With its individuality, it reflects back to us elements of Leah's quirky but no nonsense personality.
There is plenty of humour to be found in the novel, with some colourful, chaotic characters- especially Joey with his irrepressible approach to life. Dan is more difficult to work out but he always keeps our sympathy, even when you could shake him for failing to act. Although there are some dark issues in the background, the novel is overwhelmingly comedic. With a fast paced narrative and plenty of twists and turns, this is an entertaining romcom.
In short: A fun, romantic story despite some darker issues. Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
The book's heroine Leah Jensen does the unthinkable in order to help her beloved Grandfather. Then in the process she falls head over heels for Dan Ryan but the course of true love doesn't run smoothly even with help from unexpected corners. Touching, entertaining and laugh out loud funny. A must read for anyone with an ounce of romance in them.
This is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that had me chuckling and guffawing at the characters' hilarious antics.
Just then, before he had time to react, there was a muffled sound as something akin to a dark angel hurtled down past his balcony - attached to a bungee rope. The apparition disappeared, followed by a scream as it bounced back up towards him, returned to the roof and then boinged back down. Dan ducked just in time as on its return journey the figure made a desperate attempt to clutch at his balcony railings. It missed, and went whizzing upwards again. Just as Dan was thinking should he call Security - Smack! - he was knocked clean off his feet as the flying intruder landed heavily on top of him, sending his condom packets flying in all directions.
Leah would do anything to pay for life-saving surgery for her Grandad Thomas. Anything...window washing, mucking horse stalls, wing-walking, dog-walking, water-skiing, and bungee jumping off a roof into a hotel room for a one-night hookup with a stranger. Little did she know that a one-night stand would change her life forever.
Dan Ryan, a workaholic executive who didn't have time for relationships told his bodyguard he wanted a hooker to fall out of the sky and his wish was granted. Literally. After giving her a big tip for that one night, he never thought he would see her again, but fate has a way of intervening in people's lives.
The characters are realistic and full of surprises. I adore Leah's unfailing love of her family, home and career, Joey's flamboyant and sordid wit, and Ruby and Sophie's sly plan to find happiness for Dan. However, Dan's blind faith in his personal assistant, Chelsea, really ticked me off, and Chelsea is a dangerous bitch and sore loser who needs psychological help. Dan eventually comes around, but at the price of hurting people he loved.
I loved this book. It's fast-paced, intriguing and an overall comfy read. If you enjoy reading about quirky characters and beautiful locations in England, please give this one a read.
Thank you to Ms. Bond for the opportunity to review this book with no expectation of a positive review.
This is a humorous, romantic story, with complex characters, and a lovely northern ethos. Whilst there are aspects of this story that I love, there are a few I don't. Some of the attitudes jar with twenty-first-century thinking. The length of the story is longer than it needs to be. It is written with maximum visual imagery, so the pace carries it along, despite the length, but a shorter story would work better. Most of the characters work well, but a few stereotypical traits are in evidence.
On the positive side, this is a heartwarming, humorous and hectic story, with a lovely main protagonist, Leah, and a cast of varied and interesting characters to compliment her. This is pure escapist reading, providing you accept this, it will be an enjoyable experience. There are many mentions of James Bond, and there are aspects of the story that mirror these stories, the intrepid heroine, the quirky sidekicks, and over the top villains, for example.
If you're expecting to spend your time in Whitby, you may be disappointed, the historic seaside town does feature, but there is more action elsewhere. I would love to spend more time in the dog-friendly cafe.
An ideal read if you're looking for something different in the romantic comedy genre.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This is the perfect title for this book because it’s about a young woman who will do anything for the people she loves. Leah adores her grandfather, and she would do absolutely anything for him. He has taken care of her most of her life, and now she wants to take care of him. He has arthritic knees that cause him so much pain, and the NHS has denied his surgery. She and her cousin, Joey, do about every odd job they can, but they still don’t have enough money until Leah does something she never would dream of doing, but she has to. Little does she know that one night will change the course of her life over several years to come.
Fast forward several years later, and Leah is again doing something for a boy she loves, her son. She goes in search of the man who changed her life, Dan, who happens to be the father of her son, Tom. It’s an adventure not to be missed.
The characters are fun and realistic! Dan is the workaholic, and every time Leah breezes into his life, she changes it for the better. His mother, Sophie, and her best friend, Ruby, make fun matchmakers! I loved Joey. He is the perfect sidekick for Leah!
It really is a heartwarming, fun read complete with great characters and a beautiful setting!
I took a chance on this book and went into it blind. I had no cover and only the blurb to go off and boy did I love it! Where to begin? It was an easy read and over before you know it… Leah! Omg. She is so so funny. She proper made me giggle throughout she is nutty, crazy and full of wonder. You never know what she’s going to do next. She’s a dare devil. Fearless. Nothing can stop her. She has a brilliant job/business and is the perfect mother just wanting the best for her son. Can we give a shoutout to jealous, controlling and manipulative Chelsea? Who does she think she is. Didn’t like her at all! Pfft. Dans character he was half and half for me. He has it all but the way he handled things wasn’t nice but it all turned out well in the end. Do we get a happily ever after here? You’ll have to read it to find out… Leah reminds me of Bridget Jones slighty. So a perfect read for chick-lit, romance and humour lovers. A well deserved four stars from me. Highly recommend.
I liked this book because the leading lady is strong and a decent human being.However I thought it took her way to long to let the father know that he was a dad. I also thought the ending was late in arriving
This story made me laugh, made me frown my eyebrows, but most of all, I truly enjoyed it.
Leah loves her family most of all. And her family just being her, her grandfather Thomas and her cousin Joey. When her grandfather needs an expensive surgery, but they don’t have the necessary money to pay for it, Leah sees only 1 solution: doing the one thing she wouldn’t never ever do… being a lady of pleasure… So she meets Dan and they spend the night together.
This seems like a cliché story, rich man and not so wealthy woman meet, fall in love and live their happily ever after. But don’t get fooled, as this story will surprise you!
Despite the moment of pure necessity, Leah manages thanks to Dan, to pay the surgery and go after her dream. There is only one problem… after that amazing night, as Dan just disappeared and she cannot contact him. While she has something very important to tell him.
Like I said, I truly enjoyed reading this story. It just have everything you need for an enjoyable time reading. It’s written so easily, despite the initial fast forwards. Leah is so down to earth, funny and will do anything for her family. But she is also a proud woman, who won’t get fooled or played by persons who want to get her down. Dan is for me an amazing man, but also a bit naive, as he doesn’t always sees everyone’s true colours… For the most funny parts, you can always count on Joey and his search of the perfect man for himself. But there are also other persons in it that will make you smile (never underestimate Scotty! ☺️) and make this story even better! So for me, it was a true comedy in an amazing setting! It made me want to be in Whitby too!
This is a slightly madcap but touching novel! It’s packed full of energy and larger than life, exuberant characters. Front of stage are Leah and her camp cousin Joey, who are devoted to each other and their grandfather. They need to raise money, and fast, to pay for his operation as the NHS waiting list is far too long. They try a few crazy and increasingly unlikely things, from dog walking to wing walking, before Leah turns to the oldest profession as a way to make money. Wealthy, rather-full-of-himself Dan is the man of the hour. His encounter with Leah has unforeseen consequences, due to some sneaky skulduggery. And has our fair-haired, energetic heroine has the willpower and determination to cope with the unexpected… It’s a fast-paced novel, with lots of humour and twists and turns. However, it touches on gritty issues – the failure of the NHS to look after vulnerable people properly, prostitution – but these are skilfully dealt with so that they don’t jar in this comic novel. Fun and frantic, and definitely worth a read.
Fabulous Holiday Novel, non stop dreams comedy & romance!
We chose 5 * and you too will love this drama filled comedy romance novel. We loved the emotional drama, travel and animal highlights. Rollercoaster emotional reading full of surprises.