Best Friend's Brother

Billion Scandals #6

by L.A. Pepper

This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B08BZWV7SR

My best friend had warned me about HIM.
But the rebel in me didn’t listen.
A bad boy, who also knows my secret past is the worst idea in the world.

So of course, I paid the consequences with a shattered heart…

I had heard rumours about his continued secretive, and mysterious ways.
No one could ever pin down why he often disappeared.

When he left, I vowed not to let him ruin my life again.
But one thought of those big brown eyes, and even bigger chest,
my heart ached to feel him close again, just one time...…

I tried to seem indifferent.
I didn’t want him to know how I missed him, and how I craved him.
I was also trying to create a fresh start and leave the past behind.

He has connections.
He showed up in my new boutique.

There was something I wasn’t supposed to do…
Reveal his secrets, and expose two families generations of scandals.

Will, he ever be able to forgive me, and give me a second chance, once the truth is finally revealed?

Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2020

Reviews

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars - I really, really liked this. The family may be growing but it's become borderline incestuous. Hehehe.... You really need to read to understand.

Gio and Cam have great chemistry and after years of keeping it at bay, life throws them a curveball that allows them to be honest with each other. Their secret desires come out quickly. No hemming and hawing. It's great! They other fish to fry and secrets to reveal. Those will prove to be their true challenge.

I'm looking forward to the next installment. Christmas Scandals can't come soon enough! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed myself immensely while reading this book. It’s very well written, the story-line is engaging from start to finish, the characters are well developed and likable and the chemistry is undeniable! I recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renee Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scandalous!

Secrets from the past are revealed between 2 families who are blood-related & are estranged for a number of years. Gio wants to wash his hands of his dad's Mafia business by joining the armed services. The Agency sees Gio as an asset, fakes his death & is hired by The Agency as an undercover secret agent. Dave, a twin, is a spy also & both interchange their roles while on a secret mission as they look almost identical. Complications arise when Dave is assumed dead from an explosion in another country. Gio, his cousin, fills in, taking over Dave's life until the mission is completed. Dave's family doesn't know about Dave's death or the impostor who has taken his place. Cameron, both Dave's & Gio's handler, tells Gio to tell the family the truth of his existence. By doing so, it becomes a Pandora's box & events happen that cannot be stopped.

This novel turns out to be an exhilarating, refreshingly different spin with the rich, Mafia family & secret agents combined! Even though Cameron & Gio work closely undercover, their feelings for each other has been suppressed until they meet again, years later. A great story to read & keep you absorbed into reading it until the end of the novel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Natasha M. Lott · Rating 5 out of 5]

When undercover, you never know the people you will meet. I was so drawn into those who fall in love with each other without know the true status. It helps in people able to come together regardless of how much money they make. It is a must read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself enjoying this well written storyline from start to finish.. The characters are well developed and engaging and the chemistry is undeniable throughout the pages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Katja · Rating 3 out of 5]

This romantic suspense story was a bit confusing at first and once I had figured out what was going on it seemed a tad unlikely. Cameron, Dave and Gio have worked as secret spies for the Agency that does whatever Agencies do. Dave and Gio had the same grandmother and somehow with this fraction of shared DNA they ended up each other's doppelgangers, covering up for each other while the other one is on a secret spy mission. Gio was pretending to be Dave when Dave died abroad, and he continues to pretend to be Dave. But Cameron who is in love with Gio thinks he should reveal his real identity to everyone. In the meantime, Gio's father is threatening his grandmother. Anyway, just how cold and distant is this family if nobody notices that it's not their son or brother but some other guy who looks similar? I think it is probably a felony to steal a dead guy's identity and continue to use their wealth as your own but Gio is lucky that the police don't seem interested and Dave's heirs don't seem to mind. The romance part was a done deal, we never really find out why or how Cam and Gio fall in love, they just are.

[Amy Reierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just don't understand how I could possibly love this series anymore than I already do. But with each book I love it even more. This latest edition to the series is a whole new twist we've had a secret baby, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, fake fiancé, and of course the best friends sister. This one though I didn't see coming or expect and yet it fits seamlessly. Gio and Cam have been harbouring feelings for each other since well ask Cam she'll give you the exact day it started at least for which she's pretty sure it started for him as well. But these feelings have always been hidden for many reasons one of those was work another was family and last but not least safety. Sound weird? Get the book! 😉😁 It's time for all secrets to be revealed and truths to be told Cam is ready, Gio wants to but he's scared and hiding behind someone else.
I loved it. Get it! If you haven't started the series start at the beginning you will not be sorry!

I was given an ARC copy for an honest review.

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

The Secret Billionaire is book six in A Billion Scandals series. Each book has gotten better and better. The story is one mobsters, helicopters, hidden identities, concealed weapons, attempted murder, family intrigue and romance.

Initially I was a little confused on the plot. I wasn't sure who was who. But it was cleared up by pretty quickly. The story starts and then jumps eight years.

I have been trying to think about how to write a quick summary of the story. Nothing is working. The story was nothing I expected but in a great way. I loved the twist of it.

The Secret Billionaire is a standalone with mystery and suspense ending in happily ever after. The story is enjoyable finally getting the story of Dave Jefferies. We also catch up with the rest of the gang from the previous books. A Secret Billionaire is going to pull you in and you won't stop until you get to the end. Great read!

[Jane Holloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this book, another great addition to the "A Billion Scandals" series! I admit that I was somewhat confused at the start because there were so many different characters that it took me a while to get them sorted in my head!
However, once I did have it sorted I loved it! There is a lot of spy type action going on and as my son would say, High Jinks Ensued!!! The main characters were secretly in love with each other but because of the type of job they had, they weren't able to make any moves but I am happy to say that when they did there were some sweet sexy times! There was action and love and dark family secrets that I couldn't wait to find out what happened! At the end there was a stranger who turned up and I am presuming that they will be in the next book...well, they had better be! I highly recommend this book, infact I highly recommend the whole series so far!

[Love-Leigh Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve been reading this series let me just say, you NEED to read this book, because WOW! If you haven’t been reading the series, no problem, it’s time to start! LA Pepper has written another fantastic addition to this series. I thought Fake Fiancé Arrangement was a whirlwind but I was not prepared for what she had in store for us in this book. I won’t be going into detail on this review because honestly I feel like anything said could be a spoiler, even names. I will say very early into the book I audibly gasped, it just took me by complete surprise. Throughout the book my mind was so wrapped up in everything, that I couldn’t put it down. Such a beautiful, mysterious and absolutely magnificent read, highly recommend.

Received an ARC and am leaving my honest review.

[Emabubby · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Billionaire starts off as a spy story. Rio is an agent and Cam is his handler. While working together they form an amazing attraction for each other. After the mission ends Cam and Rio go their separate ways. Months later fate intervenes and reunites them again when they end up in the same town. The trouble is if they want to have a life together they must reveal all of their secrets and protect Rio from his enemies. Will these two star-crossed lovers find their HEA? You will just have to read this engaging romantic suspense to find out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, wow, just wow! This Billionaire series is set in such a small circle of people, that just keep surprising you with each new book. I am still blown away with the revelations from this one and how each of these books are interconnected. This one has more mysterious characters with some nefarious connections going way back. Just be prepared for a page turner that you won’t want to put down. The ending is also a great set up for the next one, which I am waiting on pins and needles.

I am voluntarily leaving a review for this book that I received free.

[Terra Oenning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say this is my favorite book of the series so far and I absolutely couldn't put it down and the emotional roller coaster ride this book had me was filled pure Heartbreak and Love. What happens when 2 cousins double as one of them to keep the secret of the other one but when things start happening ,will all the lies come out destroy the family? This book was absolutely phenomenal and L.A. Pepper was fantastic with this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cam and Gio will thrill you in this exiting story. Cam is in love with Gio but there is something about him she thinks he is keeping away from her. Gio is in secret a spy among other things. His only solace is when he is with Cam but when everything comes to a head will he be able to keep those that are close to him safe? This Mafia romance will keep you guessing and cheering Cam and Gio to finally get their happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elaine Swinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book through BookSprout and I voluntarily chose to review it. I took a chance on this one the blurb doesn't do it justice. This is a well written story with some mystery and suspense. I loved the characters they pull you into the story. I couldn't put this one down. I will encourage everyone to get this one. It is a keeper for sure!!! Awesome book!!!! L.A. Pepper is becoming a favorite author of mine, she writes great stories.

[S I · Rating 5 out of 5]

When things go wrong in the agency, Cam and Gio go their separate ways , leaving the agency. Cam now has a business in boutique shop. Gio acts like Dave and reestablished his friendship with Cam which moved into more passionate connections. Secrets, family trust issues, truths has us all sitting on the edge of our seats. A great read from this author I think you will like!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joy Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m new to the series! I received an Arc copy of this book. This book has everything secrets, lies, love, and billionaires. I was hooked from the beginning. This book draws you in and you don’t want to let go! Gio ran away from his father’s brutality at a young age to join the military. He didn’t want the life his father has had so he faked his own death. He became an operative and met his cousin in the process. They looked so much alike it was scary. Hiding who he is from his family takes a toll and secrets will be revealed! I liked this book. I’m going to go back and read the other books in the series. I really enjoyed it!! You will not be disappointed at all!!

[Breanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this book was so good! I loved the chemistry between Gio and Cam. I loved the twist and turns that was in the story. You really felt for them and the loss they were feeling for their friend. This was a page turner and finished in a day. I highly recommend this book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Becky David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love with this series. I can't wait to read all 8.

Fingers crossed that Will is right about his twin.

Gio and Cam deserve to find each other and love again after so many years forced to hold back.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Hilary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The storyline of this book in the series certainly contained many surprises and twists that I was not expecting! Be prepared to be blown away!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[a fretwell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favourite of the series

Loved books before this have five stars this one took a lot to get into but this is just my opinion still love these books about the intermingling of family members which is fun as you seem to get to know them as if real very well written

[☆☆Hannah☆☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read an ARC copy.

This was a good read. Cam and Gio were on a mission. Things go bad and now years later they start dating. The only problem is that there are secrets. Things get complicated but in the end they get their happy ending.

[Karen Zornek fitzcharles]

I love this family and the story. I hope Dave is back soon. Thank you for writing this book. Please read and review your books.

[Charlene Rakstis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Billionaire

Another good story by this talented author. I have enjoyed reading her other stories and I look forward to reading more.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/3/2022)! 🎁

[Megan Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mystery and suspense in this book will keep you reading on the edge of your seat. The romance in this book is also top notch which makes this book a must read. I would read the entire series to help keep everything flowing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Janice · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Billionaire by L.A. Pepper

Having now read three books of this series, this is my favorite. It was an intriguing, suspenseful story that was entertaining to read and kept me turning the page.

I would call this a covert agent romance and it is the sixth book in the “A Billion Scandals” series. It is a moderate read which took me about three and a half hours to read at 180 pages. It can be read as a stand-alone but is best read in series order to get all the references to the cousins. It does have some swearing and some moderately explicit sexual scenes, but there is no cheating and no cliffhanger ending. There were some typos and such, around one to two dozen; but they didn’t seem to interrupt the story much.

I know that Amazon says that this is a Mafia romance but it is more of a covert agent romance. The hero’s father is Mafia but the hero has not had contact with him in years and has been working undercover during that time. His father shows up near the end of the story but that is more from personal reasons than because of the Mafia. Both of the main characters worked in the spy business so a spy or covert agent romance. The story is believable for the most part though maybe not truly realistic. Generally, there could have been more depth to the story, characters, and settings; but it was enough to be enjoyable. The scenes could have more atmosphere to give the reader a better feel by showing rather than telling. There’s love, subterfuge, suspense, grief, compassion, family, revenge, reunions, and past scandals.

The story is good and suspenseful, so it was an enjoyable read. I give it a B+ (4½ stars).

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charmaine Nouwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Billionaire by L.A. Pepper is a captivating,intriguing,intense,steamy filled with action,family drama and secrets.A friend to lovers romance story of Gio/Dave and Cameron these three is friends and a secret agent..Gio is the son of a mob boss who left his past life to join the military..Cameron is a gorgeous bombshell, a handler/agent when they went on a mission one of her agent got captured and got killed when the area explode after that she and Gio left the agency but on their mission they got attatched and feel something towards each other,their attraction is strong but they dont want to endanger theoir mission so they didnt acted on it and when dave died,they grew apart.Gio played the roll of Dave because he doesnt want for dave family be devastated when they know that Dave is gone,Dave is also his cousin but he doesnt know. but when his father is on the rampage for revenge to his mother who abandon him when he still a baby and gave him to his father,he grew up very entitled,jerk and selfish person. but all secrets never stay a secrets..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! L.A. Pepper did a great job on the sixth book of The Billion Scandals series. I was excited to get this book and it did not disappoint. The secrets that Gio/Dave and Cam have to keep about and for his family kept me on the edge of my seat.
Cameron and Gio are secret operatives that work for The Agency. They have a skill set that The Agency found as a useful asset. Gio looks a lot like his cousin Dave who is an agent as well so he becomes a great double for Dave. After a tragedy happens, Gio and Cam left The Agency. They go their separate ways but end up in the same small town years later.
Cam was Gio and Dave’s handler in The Agency. Dave was her best friend and Gio and Cam fought a powerful chemistry for each other. After they retired from The Agency years later they try a relationship but old family secrets become a problem. As family secrets come out will Gio’s family look at him the same way? It’s kind of like Pandora’s box has been opened and there is no stopping what happens next. Will their love survive it?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[D'Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sixth book in the A Billion Scandals series just outdid all the other books. I didn’t think I’d love this book more than the others due to being so confused on who was who and how the plot would play out. Regardless of my doubts, I can say I absolutely loved Gio/Dave and Cam’s story. The secrecy surrounding the characters, the drama, romance, and plot twists blew my mind. Cam is the definition of a sexy, intelligent and caring woman, making her the perfect match for devilishly handsome, wealthy and enigmatic Gio. After a mission gone wrong, Cam and Gio decide to leave the agency they are employed at and go their separate ways to have a fresh start.
Fate , however, has different plans and reunites then when they find themselves in the same town. Before they can be together they must face revenge seeking enemies and reveal all their secrets.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.