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Big Dick Energy
Sick of being talked over and disregarded at work, I resolve to exude the same confidence as the males who perpetually get promoted over me. While honing my Big Dick Energy skills at a bar with my friends, I rebuff the advances of a man who embodies the definition. Hot. Cocky. Swagger for days. It’s a no from me, and his shock indicates he’s not often rejected.
The joke’s on me when I discover he’s my new business partner. After the months it took to land the account, I refuse to apologize to Archer York, backdown during meetings where we constantly clash, or do anything that’d make me seem weak—although my knees feel anything but strong around the guy. But as our frustrating encounters turn flirty, I wonder if it’d be so bad to throw decorum out the window and do what alpha guys do best—think with their dicks.
The joke’s on me when I discover he’s my new business partner. After the months it took to land the account, I refuse to apologize to Archer York, backdown during meetings where we constantly clash, or do anything that’d make me seem weak—although my knees feel anything but strong around the guy. But as our frustrating encounters turn flirty, I wonder if it’d be so bad to throw decorum out the window and do what alpha guys do best—think with their dicks.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
196 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Cindi Madsen
66 books2,268 followersCindi Madsen is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance and young adult novels. She sits at her computer every chance she gets, plotting, revising, and falling in love with her characters. She loves music and dancing and wishes summer lasted all year long. She lives in Colorado (where summer is most definitely NOT all year long) with her husband and three children. She and her family also take their Marvel addiction very seriously, as their one-eyed cat, Agent Fury, and their kitty named Valkyrie can attest.
You can visit Cindi at: www.cindimadsen.com, where you can sign up for her newsletter to get all the up-to-date information on her books.
Follow her on Twitter @cindimadsen
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See her inspiration pins on Pinterest.
You can visit Cindi at: www.cindimadsen.com, where you can sign up for her newsletter to get all the up-to-date information on her books.
Follow her on Twitter @cindimadsen
Find her on FB: Cindi Madsen Books
See her inspiration pins on Pinterest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 30, 2021
Equal pay, Equal opportunity, Equality for Women- This Book is right on time
I wasn’t sure this was the book for me in the beginning. Penny seemed like she hated men, she lashed out at them. She was just so angry. Or maybe it was unexpected from this normally light hearted author ? It didn’t take long till Penny and her friends grew on me, I started to get it and laugh. Sometimes you just got to wait to see the story.
Archer the hunky hunk male lead was the perfect partner for Penny. He takes her jabs at him with grace and humility. There is so much more to him than just the hunky architect, he’s a nice guy.
Two architect’s, a woman and a man competing. Both are up for a major design job, both want it, really want it. Only one can win, does a person’s sex give them an advantage ? This was fun watching these two compete and slowly develop a relationship. I love a slow build, this was wonderful
I wasn’t sure this was the book for me in the beginning. Penny seemed like she hated men, she lashed out at them. She was just so angry. Or maybe it was unexpected from this normally light hearted author ? It didn’t take long till Penny and her friends grew on me, I started to get it and laugh. Sometimes you just got to wait to see the story.
Archer the hunky hunk male lead was the perfect partner for Penny. He takes her jabs at him with grace and humility. There is so much more to him than just the hunky architect, he’s a nice guy.
Two architect’s, a woman and a man competing. Both are up for a major design job, both want it, really want it. Only one can win, does a person’s sex give them an advantage ? This was fun watching these two compete and slowly develop a relationship. I love a slow build, this was wonderful
April 7, 2021
I want to give it 3 stars but.. the dynamic between main or supporting character lack something for me, that my interest keep declining and never get up again, sorry. I really like the concept, which mostly surrounding the disadvantage and prejudice against female worker or female in general. I think the execution could be better and more engaging.
I can't really connected with Penny and Archer, well I can related with Penny slightly better than with Archer but it's not enough to make me root for them. I like the ending for the project, especially Penny's final design and how she delivered it. I'm really sorry I can't give this book better rating.
I can't really connected with Penny and Archer, well I can related with Penny slightly better than with Archer but it's not enough to make me root for them. I like the ending for the project, especially Penny's final design and how she delivered it. I'm really sorry I can't give this book better rating.
March 30, 2021
***I received a free copy from the author and chose to leave a voluntary review. Thank you! ***
If there is a Cindi Madsen Book out, I must get it ... always. She is one of my go to, auto buy authors, because I always enjoy her quirky, fun books.
That is no different with this book.
I super enjoyed it and laughed plenty throughout the book.
I liked Penny, how she maneuvers in a job run by men. She is funny, strong and won't take no for answer and always fights. She also won't take shit form men or is learning to.
Her friends, while I liked them, they were a bit much at times and it just felt a little over the top at some minor parts, but for the most part I enjoyed it. And it brought some good points across.
Archer, …. I liked him even more than Penny to be honest it was easy to tell there is a softie underneath that hard shell.
Overall, I loved this book, it had a bit of everything I enjoy in her books, humor, awkwardness and of course romance.
I give it 4★
February 26, 2023
Pretty decent story about enemies to lovers. This also does a good job at the struggle women have when they work in male dominated fields (in this case architecture). Both Archer and Penelope are well done characters. Archer has layers and his love for his little sister shines through. Penelope was a pretty awesome character too who has a couple awesome friends (Catalina and Ellie). Both Archer and Penelope both have backgrounds with less than supportive parents. Those relationships shaped them and they each have issues/struggles related to that. Each is able to recognize that and are able to make adjustments to help in overcoming those issues.
March 30, 2021
4.5 Star Review of Big Dick Energy by Cindi Madsen
I have read a few books by Cindi Madsen and as with the others I found this to be entertaining and well written. I was intrigued when I read the blurb for this book and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
The characters were easy to relate too and I fell hard and fast for Penny and Archer. I liked how sassy and feisty Penny was and how determined she was to make her way in what is often perceived as a male dominated career.
I was hooked on this fun, enemies to lovers story and really enjoyed watching Archer and Penny navigate their relationship. The secondary characters added an additional layer to my enjoyment. There were moments where I found myself laughing out loud and times where I wanted to cringe and don't get me started on the chemistry that sizzles between them.
I have read a few books by Cindi Madsen and as with the others I found this to be entertaining and well written. I was intrigued when I read the blurb for this book and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
The characters were easy to relate too and I fell hard and fast for Penny and Archer. I liked how sassy and feisty Penny was and how determined she was to make her way in what is often perceived as a male dominated career.
I was hooked on this fun, enemies to lovers story and really enjoyed watching Archer and Penny navigate their relationship. The secondary characters added an additional layer to my enjoyment. There were moments where I found myself laughing out loud and times where I wanted to cringe and don't get me started on the chemistry that sizzles between them.
March 30, 2021
3.5 Stars
Penelope is a hard working woman and is tired of being pushed aside by her boss because she is a woman. She is tired of doing all the late nights, extra hours, top notch work and its getting her nowhere. So while out drinking with her girlfriends one night - who to an extent are man haters, they tell her to fight back. To not let the men of the world push her around - to be Big D&ck Energy. So when the hot, hot guy at the bar tries to hit on her and using lame pick up lines, she unleashes all her pent up anger out on him and cuts him down brutally. Not once but twice. Her girls praise her and even though she thinks the stranger was hot, she felt liberated that she stood up for herself to not be treated as a piece of meat.
Fast forward to work and they are getting ready to go after a big client and are in a meeting waiting for someone her boss has brought in to help....or rather give a different perspective to the new client. Supposedly he is a real shark and is exactly what they need to land this client. Can you guess who it is? Yep, its the stranger from the bar. Archer - now the hot guy has a name and now she is mortified she will have to work with the guy she gave a tongue lashing to. Speaking of tongue lashing.....thats what keeps happening through a large portion of this book (and it started to wear on me)
Naturally, because of the time they spend together, they develop feelings but try to keep it professional, yada, yada, yada......Penelope was one tantrum away from me giving up on this book. I started to not like her and wanted to scream to Archer to run...It started out good but didnt go the way I had hoped. It was just an ok read for me by the endingj.
March 31, 2021
What a great start to the new Meet Cute Series, in Big Dick Energy we get Penny and Archer’s enemies to lovers romance. Their story is a fun, entertaining, captivating read that will certainly appeal to a wide range of audiences. I was hooked from the first chapter and there was no putting down until I had read the final word.
Penny is in a ruck in a job that is male dominated, she sees herself getting overlooked and under appreciated at work and she can’t see how working with Archer is going to make her feel any better. What she didn’t expect was the attraction and the feelings to develop for her workmate.
Penny and Archer start off as enemies and it was fun and entertaining to watch them coming to terms with the feelings they both have. I loved how strong, determined and sassy Penny is and I fell hard and fast for Archer, I loved their story and I thought the secondary characters did enough to leave you wanting their stories without taking over Penny and Archer’s. I laughed, I smiled, I swooned and at times I cringed but all in all this is a great read that I highly recommend.
Penny is in a ruck in a job that is male dominated, she sees herself getting overlooked and under appreciated at work and she can’t see how working with Archer is going to make her feel any better. What she didn’t expect was the attraction and the feelings to develop for her workmate.
Penny and Archer start off as enemies and it was fun and entertaining to watch them coming to terms with the feelings they both have. I loved how strong, determined and sassy Penny is and I fell hard and fast for Archer, I loved their story and I thought the secondary characters did enough to leave you wanting their stories without taking over Penny and Archer’s. I laughed, I smiled, I swooned and at times I cringed but all in all this is a great read that I highly recommend.
April 2, 2021
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
j'étais assez curieuse de lire l'autrice pour la première fois en anglais (j'avais pu lire tous ses romans traduits) et je n'ai pas été déçue du voyage, ni avec les personnages ni avec l'intrigue qui donne le sourire du début à la fin ! La première rencontre entre Archer et Penny est pour le moins houleuse et leur relation va prendre un tournant auquel ils ne s'attendaient pas. Rien n'est évident mais avec beaucoup d'humour, d'amour et d'amitié, l'autrice va nous décrire leur progression, leurs bons moments comme leurs engueulades et on a le sourire tout au long de notre lecture. Ils sont tous les deux très attachants, j'ai aimé le fait que Penny se batte pour ce qu'elle a même si parfois j'ai été agacée qu'elle ait à le faire simplement parce qu'elle est une femme. Ils sont tous les deux intenses et on les suit avec plaisir jusqu'aux derniers mots. Le final est vraiment très chouette et nous permet de les quitter avec un immense sourire aux lèvres !!
j'étais assez curieuse de lire l'autrice pour la première fois en anglais (j'avais pu lire tous ses romans traduits) et je n'ai pas été déçue du voyage, ni avec les personnages ni avec l'intrigue qui donne le sourire du début à la fin ! La première rencontre entre Archer et Penny est pour le moins houleuse et leur relation va prendre un tournant auquel ils ne s'attendaient pas. Rien n'est évident mais avec beaucoup d'humour, d'amour et d'amitié, l'autrice va nous décrire leur progression, leurs bons moments comme leurs engueulades et on a le sourire tout au long de notre lecture. Ils sont tous les deux très attachants, j'ai aimé le fait que Penny se batte pour ce qu'elle a même si parfois j'ai été agacée qu'elle ait à le faire simplement parce qu'elle est une femme. Ils sont tous les deux intenses et on les suit avec plaisir jusqu'aux derniers mots. Le final est vraiment très chouette et nous permet de les quitter avec un immense sourire aux lèvres !!
March 30, 2021
This story had me laughing so hard, I swooned alot also. A fab read by this author
April 12, 2021
This was a good book, with a strong message and even stronger characters! I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
April 24, 2021
Fabulous fun, witty and endearing story. Can't wait for Love's a Glitch.
May 23, 2024
Fun, sexy enemies to lovers romance
Big Dick Energy is the first title in Cindi Madsen’s Meet-Cute series. It reads well as a standalone story but includes an event that triggers the storyline of the following title. Big Dick Energy opens with Penelope (Penny) Jones being advised by her two best friends, Catalina and Ellie, that in order to not be overlooked at work, she needs to work on exuding “Big Dick Energy” (BDE) the alpha quality of being naturally confident, but not arrogant. She puts this into practice straight away by cooling turning down a handsome man in the bar they’re drinking in.
Penny has worked for BJB Architecture, in San Diego, for 5 years and, despite being a talented architect who is passionate about her work, she is constantly overlooked by her boss, passed over for promotion and has colleagues who take the credit for her work or ideas. Having spent two months working towards winning her dream project for the company, Penny is incensed when her boss informs her that he’s bringing in a top contractor, nicknamed the “Home Run King”, to work on the project with her but is determined to be assertive and stay in control of the project. However, the BDE that Penny is working so hard to manifest falters when Archer York, the contractor, turns out to be the stranger she’d rejected at the bar.
Carter is naturally confident and epitomises big dick energy. He doesn’t lose or give up and, unfortunately for Penny, is as driven as she is to work on the project but has conflicting ideas to her’s. Although she’d won the project for the company Penny’s designs for a huge new soccer complex are now being viewed in competition with Carter’s. Having been burned before, Penny has decided not to get involved with a colleague again, and Carter is a committed bachelor, but both have a strong physical attraction to the other. Although enemies at work, the chemistry between Penny and Carter intensifies as they spend more time together.
The narrative of Big Dick Energy is told from the points of view of both Penny and Carter so the reader gets to know both well and gradually learns more about each of their backgrounds and personal reasons for being so invested in the work project. Carter being invited to work with BJB Architecture coincides with him staying in the city to look after his 12 year old half sister, Izzie, for over a month, which is an experience that’s also gradually changing and challenging his outlook. Izzie is young and vulnerable but has strong beliefs about equality and is not afraid to speak out. Izzie’s inclusion in the storyline brings out a softer and slightly less confident side in Carter that contrasts with his usual overly confident persona.
I liked all of the characters in this book but especially sassiness of some of the female characters. The interaction and banter between Penny and Carter with fun and whilst the plot wasn’t particularly complex (it was fine for the length of story), it flowed well and I found it enjoyable to read. If you’re looking for a fun and sexy romance story, that’s a relatively quick read, I’d recommend Big Dick Energy. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
Big Dick Energy is the first title in Cindi Madsen’s Meet-Cute series. It reads well as a standalone story but includes an event that triggers the storyline of the following title. Big Dick Energy opens with Penelope (Penny) Jones being advised by her two best friends, Catalina and Ellie, that in order to not be overlooked at work, she needs to work on exuding “Big Dick Energy” (BDE) the alpha quality of being naturally confident, but not arrogant. She puts this into practice straight away by cooling turning down a handsome man in the bar they’re drinking in.
Penny has worked for BJB Architecture, in San Diego, for 5 years and, despite being a talented architect who is passionate about her work, she is constantly overlooked by her boss, passed over for promotion and has colleagues who take the credit for her work or ideas. Having spent two months working towards winning her dream project for the company, Penny is incensed when her boss informs her that he’s bringing in a top contractor, nicknamed the “Home Run King”, to work on the project with her but is determined to be assertive and stay in control of the project. However, the BDE that Penny is working so hard to manifest falters when Archer York, the contractor, turns out to be the stranger she’d rejected at the bar.
Carter is naturally confident and epitomises big dick energy. He doesn’t lose or give up and, unfortunately for Penny, is as driven as she is to work on the project but has conflicting ideas to her’s. Although she’d won the project for the company Penny’s designs for a huge new soccer complex are now being viewed in competition with Carter’s. Having been burned before, Penny has decided not to get involved with a colleague again, and Carter is a committed bachelor, but both have a strong physical attraction to the other. Although enemies at work, the chemistry between Penny and Carter intensifies as they spend more time together.
The narrative of Big Dick Energy is told from the points of view of both Penny and Carter so the reader gets to know both well and gradually learns more about each of their backgrounds and personal reasons for being so invested in the work project. Carter being invited to work with BJB Architecture coincides with him staying in the city to look after his 12 year old half sister, Izzie, for over a month, which is an experience that’s also gradually changing and challenging his outlook. Izzie is young and vulnerable but has strong beliefs about equality and is not afraid to speak out. Izzie’s inclusion in the storyline brings out a softer and slightly less confident side in Carter that contrasts with his usual overly confident persona.
I liked all of the characters in this book but especially sassiness of some of the female characters. The interaction and banter between Penny and Carter with fun and whilst the plot wasn’t particularly complex (it was fine for the length of story), it flowed well and I found it enjoyable to read. If you’re looking for a fun and sexy romance story, that’s a relatively quick read, I’d recommend Big Dick Energy. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
May 28, 2024
2.5 or a very generous 3 for a story I ‘actually’ should have loved. See some of my highlights.
Let me explain…
This had great bones to it (innuendo intended). The plot, storyline, side characters all had great potential. What really sucked was the lack of support this author clearly had with editing & proofreading and really bringing the story to life. The base was there and the rest just missed.
So many typos. So much repetition. The use of the word ‘actually’
So many current event references that will not age well
So many references to Taylor Swift, the people from the movie twilight and instances of chosen pronouns it just took away from a romance book that should be about escape. Read the room- this is not the place or genre.
The pacing was so slow until it wasn’t. One page was near hatred and the next was a hot and heavy make out sessions and I love you’s. Then back to hate?
BDE? More like she was a jerk who gave mixed signals. The heroine, Penelope, personified exactly what she claimed she hated- not being treated as an equal. Many times she flipped her hair, accentuated her breasts etc. So many ways to make her likable and it failed. Pick a side.
I kinda liked the hero, but he could have been painted better as well. He tried, but with her multiple personalities I can see where it was a struggle. His grand gesture was sweet and he really did try to be chivalrous I think. It needed further execution.
I wanted to love it. I chose this book because I have my eyes set on book 2 and reviews indicated that reading book one would be helpful.
It was on the short side of under 300 pages so that was nice! I wish this author had better direction to make this better because the potential was there.
Let me explain…
This had great bones to it (innuendo intended). The plot, storyline, side characters all had great potential. What really sucked was the lack of support this author clearly had with editing & proofreading and really bringing the story to life. The base was there and the rest just missed.
So many typos. So much repetition. The use of the word ‘actually’
So many current event references that will not age well
So many references to Taylor Swift, the people from the movie twilight and instances of chosen pronouns it just took away from a romance book that should be about escape. Read the room- this is not the place or genre.
The pacing was so slow until it wasn’t. One page was near hatred and the next was a hot and heavy make out sessions and I love you’s. Then back to hate?
BDE? More like she was a jerk who gave mixed signals. The heroine, Penelope, personified exactly what she claimed she hated- not being treated as an equal. Many times she flipped her hair, accentuated her breasts etc. So many ways to make her likable and it failed. Pick a side.
I kinda liked the hero, but he could have been painted better as well. He tried, but with her multiple personalities I can see where it was a struggle. His grand gesture was sweet and he really did try to be chivalrous I think. It needed further execution.
I wanted to love it. I chose this book because I have my eyes set on book 2 and reviews indicated that reading book one would be helpful.
It was on the short side of under 300 pages so that was nice! I wish this author had better direction to make this better because the potential was there.
March 30, 2021
Penelope is that girl. The too nice one that’s constantly being taken advantage of. The one always passed over for the big promotions because she won’t speak up for herself and allows her boss to push her around, never seeing her worth. She’s loyal and moral to a fault.
Archer is that guy. The one that thrives on competition and, most importantly, winning. He’s got his sights set on his goals and won’t let anything get in his way. But he’s not all bad. He loves his mom and his little sister, despite the vast age gap. And he’s not completely closed-minded.
Put these two together, and sparks fly big time. But beyond chemistry, these two have a lot more in common than they think. So why does it take working together on the project of a lifetime, meddling friends, and a teenaged sister to make them see that?
I’ve been a fan of Cindi Madsen’s for quite some time. She writes great characters who have great stories and tells them with great humor (and snarky humor—my favorite—at that!). Out of all of her books that I’ve read, Big Dick Energy has to be my most favorite book of hers so far. It’s chocked full of sarcastic humor (some seriously lol moments), great banter among characters, a timely and relevant plot, lots of chemistry between the main characters, and so. Much. Emotion. And seriously…at times, Archer’s little sister steals the spotlight from both him and Penelope. Perhaps we will get her story one day?? Just a thought! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I give Big Dick Energy by Cindi Madsen 5 out of 5 stars!
Archer is that guy. The one that thrives on competition and, most importantly, winning. He’s got his sights set on his goals and won’t let anything get in his way. But he’s not all bad. He loves his mom and his little sister, despite the vast age gap. And he’s not completely closed-minded.
Put these two together, and sparks fly big time. But beyond chemistry, these two have a lot more in common than they think. So why does it take working together on the project of a lifetime, meddling friends, and a teenaged sister to make them see that?
I’ve been a fan of Cindi Madsen’s for quite some time. She writes great characters who have great stories and tells them with great humor (and snarky humor—my favorite—at that!). Out of all of her books that I’ve read, Big Dick Energy has to be my most favorite book of hers so far. It’s chocked full of sarcastic humor (some seriously lol moments), great banter among characters, a timely and relevant plot, lots of chemistry between the main characters, and so. Much. Emotion. And seriously…at times, Archer’s little sister steals the spotlight from both him and Penelope. Perhaps we will get her story one day?? Just a thought! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I give Big Dick Energy by Cindi Madsen 5 out of 5 stars!
March 22, 2022
Penelope Jones is sick and tired of working in a man's world. She is a very gifted architect but because she is female she always gets overlooked. When Penny lands the biggest project in San Diego, designing a new soccer complex for the San Diego Pythons, her celebration is deflated when her boss tells her they are bringing in the "Home Run King" to help her.....none other than Archer York. Trying to forget about all men, Penny and her friends are drinking at Paddy's Gaslamp Pub. One of her best friends, Cat tells her she needs to act like she has Big Dick Energy....men might think she is a real witch, but it will help her move forward. When a gorgeous guy hits on Penny at the pub, she decides to try out her energy on him. He gets the message loud and clear. The only problem is that he is her new partner that she has to work with on the soccer complex!
As these two keep trying to one up each other, Penny and Archer start to realize there is an attraction developing between the two of them. Before they know it, their relationship changes from professional to personal. Things are going along wonderfully until competition rules it's ugly head. Someone will be having to make a huge gesture in order for these two to find their happy ending but they do it in a perfect way.
I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. Penny and Archer were so fun together. They both had some issues from their pasts but together they were able to overcome them. I also really enjoyed all of Penny's friends. They were so fun. Overall this was a fun, enjoyable read.
As these two keep trying to one up each other, Penny and Archer start to realize there is an attraction developing between the two of them. Before they know it, their relationship changes from professional to personal. Things are going along wonderfully until competition rules it's ugly head. Someone will be having to make a huge gesture in order for these two to find their happy ending but they do it in a perfect way.
I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. Penny and Archer were so fun together. They both had some issues from their pasts but together they were able to overcome them. I also really enjoyed all of Penny's friends. They were so fun. Overall this was a fun, enjoyable read.
March 30, 2021
Feels 0
Steam 1
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
Penelope is hard working and tired of being pushed aside by her boss because she is a woman. She is fed up of doing all the late nights, extra hours, top notch work and getting her nowhere. While out drinking with her man hating girlfriends one night, they tell her to fight back. To not let the men of the world push her around and be Big D&ck Energy. When the hot, hot guy at the bar tries to hit on her using lame pick up lines, she unleashes all her pent up anger on him and cuts him down brutally. Not once but twice. Her girls praise her and even though she thinks the stranger was gorgeous, she felt liberated that she stood up for herself to not be treated as a piece of meat.
Fast forward to work targeting a big client, waiting for someone her boss has brought in to give a different perspective to the new client. The expert is a real shark and exactly who they need to land this client. Can you guess who it is? Yep, it's the stranger from the bar Archer. She is mortified she will have to work with the guy she gave a tongue lashing to.
Penelope was one tantrum away from me giving up on this book. I could not connect with her character and wanted to scream for Archer to run. The story started out pretty good but didn't quite go the way I had hoped. It was an ok read for me but you might find it amazing.
Steam 1
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
Penelope is hard working and tired of being pushed aside by her boss because she is a woman. She is fed up of doing all the late nights, extra hours, top notch work and getting her nowhere. While out drinking with her man hating girlfriends one night, they tell her to fight back. To not let the men of the world push her around and be Big D&ck Energy. When the hot, hot guy at the bar tries to hit on her using lame pick up lines, she unleashes all her pent up anger on him and cuts him down brutally. Not once but twice. Her girls praise her and even though she thinks the stranger was gorgeous, she felt liberated that she stood up for herself to not be treated as a piece of meat.
Fast forward to work targeting a big client, waiting for someone her boss has brought in to give a different perspective to the new client. The expert is a real shark and exactly who they need to land this client. Can you guess who it is? Yep, it's the stranger from the bar Archer. She is mortified she will have to work with the guy she gave a tongue lashing to.
Penelope was one tantrum away from me giving up on this book. I could not connect with her character and wanted to scream for Archer to run. The story started out pretty good but didn't quite go the way I had hoped. It was an ok read for me but you might find it amazing.
January 6, 2026
Rating: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The further I read into this book the more I enjoyed it. I’ll start by addressing the characters, which I mostly always do. Surprise, I actually liked them both! I say surprise because most of the time in romances it’s a hit or miss and i typically don’t like both of them. I will say Archer had a bit of and upper hand from Penelope because I felt like he had the most growth in the story and because sometimes the feminism can be a little much & annoying. She also seemed to take things too far sometimes and was a bit dramatic. I will also say I like the whole idea of big dick energy as a motto but like even better when she twisted it at the end to grade a pussy because let’s be real, that’s what makes the world go round, not dick 🤣 Okay let’s see, in regards to characters I did also like Pennys 2 friends and at the end when Ellie mentioned the whole phone back up thing i just knew they were setting her up to be the MC in the next book (which i will be reading right away). I understand Archer was there on business but would have been nice for him to have a trusted friend too instead of just his sister.
I liked the work place environment and appreciate the point that the author is trying to get across (inequality between men & women at the workplace) so the lesson behind it was important. Especially as someone who has worked corporate & seen this first hand!
Let’s see, i basically liked everything except the editor, they need to be fired. Would recommend.
The further I read into this book the more I enjoyed it. I’ll start by addressing the characters, which I mostly always do. Surprise, I actually liked them both! I say surprise because most of the time in romances it’s a hit or miss and i typically don’t like both of them. I will say Archer had a bit of and upper hand from Penelope because I felt like he had the most growth in the story and because sometimes the feminism can be a little much & annoying. She also seemed to take things too far sometimes and was a bit dramatic. I will also say I like the whole idea of big dick energy as a motto but like even better when she twisted it at the end to grade a pussy because let’s be real, that’s what makes the world go round, not dick 🤣 Okay let’s see, in regards to characters I did also like Pennys 2 friends and at the end when Ellie mentioned the whole phone back up thing i just knew they were setting her up to be the MC in the next book (which i will be reading right away). I understand Archer was there on business but would have been nice for him to have a trusted friend too instead of just his sister.
I liked the work place environment and appreciate the point that the author is trying to get across (inequality between men & women at the workplace) so the lesson behind it was important. Especially as someone who has worked corporate & seen this first hand!
Let’s see, i basically liked everything except the editor, they need to be fired. Would recommend.
April 1, 2021
This one was so much fun!
Penny's working in a male-dominated field (architecture) and is getting sick of being pushed aside in favor of the men in the office. The kicker is when her ex not only takes credit for her idea, but also uses it to get promoted--so her friends encourage her (at a girl's night at a bar) to work on her Big D!ck Energy skills.
So who does she start by sharpening hers on? The guy who will show up at her office as her new partner on the project of a lifetime, of course! (Who *didn't* see that happening? I mean really... ;))
I absolutely adored Penny and Archer. Their banter was on point, their chemistry was great, and once they really got to know each other? OMG, so fantastic. It actually worked in Pen's favor (until it didn't) that Archer saw her from the start as a woman who was going to take no BS from anyone, because it made him work harder to stay on the right side of her. At least until feelings got involved...
The relationship black moment was heartbreaking, but the grand gesture was (chef's kiss) perfect. I am counting the days until the release of the next book in the series, because it sounds fantastic! Or I would, if I knew when it was coming out... ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Penny's working in a male-dominated field (architecture) and is getting sick of being pushed aside in favor of the men in the office. The kicker is when her ex not only takes credit for her idea, but also uses it to get promoted--so her friends encourage her (at a girl's night at a bar) to work on her Big D!ck Energy skills.
So who does she start by sharpening hers on? The guy who will show up at her office as her new partner on the project of a lifetime, of course! (Who *didn't* see that happening? I mean really... ;))
I absolutely adored Penny and Archer. Their banter was on point, their chemistry was great, and once they really got to know each other? OMG, so fantastic. It actually worked in Pen's favor (until it didn't) that Archer saw her from the start as a woman who was going to take no BS from anyone, because it made him work harder to stay on the right side of her. At least until feelings got involved...
The relationship black moment was heartbreaking, but the grand gesture was (chef's kiss) perfect. I am counting the days until the release of the next book in the series, because it sounds fantastic! Or I would, if I knew when it was coming out... ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 4, 2021
BDE: Loved it!
Sweet, fun, uplifting, and sexy BDE was a great start to Cindi Madsen's newest series. I really loved Archer and Penny. They were a great couple and brought me laughs and smiles with their competition and growing affection for each other. I loved that they helped address the current problems that surround women in the workplace and, well, in life "actually". 😜 I worked in a male dominated field so I was able to easily relate. I liked that the author presented the issue without sounding like women just want to rule the men but instead made it clear that it's about respect and not power.
Anyway, Izzie, Archer's teen sister, was a great character. I loved her drama laden wit and wisdom as only a teenager can pull off. I'd like to see her grow up and into a book of her own.
Penny's beasties played important parts in the story but weren't as built up as they could have been. Ellie will be the h in the next book in the series so we'll get to know her better and probably Cat, too.
The book was well written and not too angsty. It was a nice light read. I don't normally say anything about errors but there were quite a few errors in the first half of the book. I'm not used to that from this author. I still loved the book and I would definitely recommend it.
Sweet, fun, uplifting, and sexy BDE was a great start to Cindi Madsen's newest series. I really loved Archer and Penny. They were a great couple and brought me laughs and smiles with their competition and growing affection for each other. I loved that they helped address the current problems that surround women in the workplace and, well, in life "actually". 😜 I worked in a male dominated field so I was able to easily relate. I liked that the author presented the issue without sounding like women just want to rule the men but instead made it clear that it's about respect and not power.
Anyway, Izzie, Archer's teen sister, was a great character. I loved her drama laden wit and wisdom as only a teenager can pull off. I'd like to see her grow up and into a book of her own.
Penny's beasties played important parts in the story but weren't as built up as they could have been. Ellie will be the h in the next book in the series so we'll get to know her better and probably Cat, too.
The book was well written and not too angsty. It was a nice light read. I don't normally say anything about errors but there were quite a few errors in the first half of the book. I'm not used to that from this author. I still loved the book and I would definitely recommend it.
April 3, 2021
Big Dick Energy is such a fun story that finds Penelope, who has been over looked and taken advantage of in her career and life one to many times, declaring she will change and exhibit big dick energy. Unfortunately for Archer this is exactly when he meets Penelope and hits on her but she doesn't want any of it since she is had it with men at the moment. Surprisingly the two find themselves working at the same architect firm on the exact same project and all h*ll breaks loose.
Archer still finds himself drawn to Penelope but she is busy trying to prove herself to men so much so that she is fighting her attraction to Archer. The two are fighting it out to win the project they are assigned but eventually they give into their attraction and find love. However. Archer bungles it up pretty quickly and finds he has once again underestimated Penelope and she is done with him. There is a lot of craziness that occurs throughout the story that you don't want to miss out on. Cat and Ellie, Penelope's two best friends provide added humor and excitement to the story as well as Archer's little sister Izzie and all her teenage drama. I really enjoyed the read, it has the steaminess I love, humor, angst, an HEA and so much more that you definitely don't want to miss this addicting read
Archer still finds himself drawn to Penelope but she is busy trying to prove herself to men so much so that she is fighting her attraction to Archer. The two are fighting it out to win the project they are assigned but eventually they give into their attraction and find love. However. Archer bungles it up pretty quickly and finds he has once again underestimated Penelope and she is done with him. There is a lot of craziness that occurs throughout the story that you don't want to miss out on. Cat and Ellie, Penelope's two best friends provide added humor and excitement to the story as well as Archer's little sister Izzie and all her teenage drama. I really enjoyed the read, it has the steaminess I love, humor, angst, an HEA and so much more that you definitely don't want to miss this addicting read
September 24, 2021
This was quite the fun read. While there are lots of laughs and some cringe taking place (as the Heroine had a tendency to be a bit of an accident waiting to happen,) there is a Feminist theme throughout, as she is one of those women whom always gets passed over for promotions and such because she's a woman in a male dominated career. It's got a lot of Girl Power feels as she fights to get what she wants. The Hero had a little misogynist characteristics, but he wasn't purposely acting that way. It was more of a 'never realizing' how some things were perceived, and he tried to make things right once he did realize it. He was a good guy in general, though he could play dirty. She was a 'good girl' who had taken on a new mantra to get what she wanted. She was going to show she had that 'Big Dick Energy.' That confidence to let all those men know she wasn't some weak thing. This is a fast read. Good storyline and good fun characters. It alternates between POVs. Despite what you may think given the title of the book, there is not a lot of sexual content. Some, but not much... though there is more sexual tension.
March 25, 2021
I read the ARC of this and loved it.
Cindi has a way of bringing hot romance and all the emotions that go with it to her stories.
Both architects, Penny & Archer are up against each other for a huge account. Having been brushed over so many times in her job for being “a girl” Penny has had enough and embraces the Big Dick Energy (BDE) mentality from her best friends.
Little does she know her competition is the man that’s been on her mind since she shut him down BDE style at Paddy’s Gaslamp Pub.
Archer, used to winning and not afraid to deny it knows from the second he sees Penny at The Pub that he wants her. Her complete disregard to his charms might have hurt his ego a little but walking into to find out that she’s the vixen he’s up against for the account has him just a little excited and nervous, after all she was a ballbuster.
BDE is a classic enemies to lovers romance that will leave you wanting more. The way the author includes her supporting cast just makes you yearn for their stories too. Can’t wait for the next book
Cindi has a way of bringing hot romance and all the emotions that go with it to her stories.
Both architects, Penny & Archer are up against each other for a huge account. Having been brushed over so many times in her job for being “a girl” Penny has had enough and embraces the Big Dick Energy (BDE) mentality from her best friends.
Little does she know her competition is the man that’s been on her mind since she shut him down BDE style at Paddy’s Gaslamp Pub.
Archer, used to winning and not afraid to deny it knows from the second he sees Penny at The Pub that he wants her. Her complete disregard to his charms might have hurt his ego a little but walking into to find out that she’s the vixen he’s up against for the account has him just a little excited and nervous, after all she was a ballbuster.
BDE is a classic enemies to lovers romance that will leave you wanting more. The way the author includes her supporting cast just makes you yearn for their stories too. Can’t wait for the next book
April 3, 2021
Penelope has reached the conclusion that being the loyal employee who is always willing to help her co-workers isn’t helping her career but hurting it. With the support of her friends, she is determined to show up for work tomorrow a much fiercer version of herself when she presents her ideas for a new project, but finding out her rival is the man she turned down the night before in a very direct and public way was a complication she didn’t need.
Archer has recently joined the same firm where Penelope works, and they find themselves competing for the same project. He was attracted to her from the moment he saw her but seeing her fiery side emerge only makes her that much more enchanting, but this is a battle he isn’t about to lose.
The interactions between them are humorous as they find out they make the perfect partners both personally and professionally, but their journey wasn’t without its setbacks.
Archer has recently joined the same firm where Penelope works, and they find themselves competing for the same project. He was attracted to her from the moment he saw her but seeing her fiery side emerge only makes her that much more enchanting, but this is a battle he isn’t about to lose.
The interactions between them are humorous as they find out they make the perfect partners both personally and professionally, but their journey wasn’t without its setbacks.
Read
December 7, 2021Sick of being talked over and disregarded at work, I resolve to exude the same confidence as the males who perpetually get promoted over me. While honing my Big Dick Energy skills at a bar with my friends, I rebuff the advances of a man who embodies the definition. Hot. Cocky. Swagger for days. It’s a no from me, and his shock indicates he’s not often rejected.
The joke’s on me when I discover he’s my new business partner. After the months it took to land the account, I refuse to apologize to Archer York, backdown during meetings where we constantly clash, or do anything that’d make me seem weak—although my knees feel anything but strong around the guy. But as our frustrating encounters turn flirty, I wonder if it’d be so bad to throw decorum out the window and do what alpha guys do best—think with their dicks.
The joke’s on me when I discover he’s my new business partner. After the months it took to land the account, I refuse to apologize to Archer York, backdown during meetings where we constantly clash, or do anything that’d make me seem weak—although my knees feel anything but strong around the guy. But as our frustrating encounters turn flirty, I wonder if it’d be so bad to throw decorum out the window and do what alpha guys do best—think with their dicks.
March 23, 2021
Big Dick Energy is sweet, cute and a whole lot of fun. You will laugh out loud when it comes to Penelope and her friends. You feel for Penelope for having to work so much harder in her career and getting no where. She is competitive, funny, sweet and can hold her own in the male driven career she is in. I love how she meets Archer and puts him in his place. Archer is competitive, smart, driven and is wonderful with his younger sister. You see so much change in him as this one goes on as Archer starts seeing Penelope for who she is and how much harder she has to work. I love Archer and Penelope's dynamic. They really play so well off each other. The chemistry is hot and sexy. I really loved this one and I cannot wait for Ellie's book next.
September 8, 2025
Yay, girl power
It's about hanging out with her girls, getting sexy, being clumsy and teaching a guy about misogyny. I read romance novels to escape the fact that guys are clueless. When my truck overheated going home in the middle of the night and I had to take an unexpected detour. I called my husband and had him stay on the line while I fixed my issue. I told him my location if I turned up missing and he didn't get it saying that's not funny. So, I get the whole issue of being a female is hard but, women already know. It would have been so much better if he didn't have to be educated. He was pretty with a sizable appendage but, what else does he have to offer. He's just Ken.
It's about hanging out with her girls, getting sexy, being clumsy and teaching a guy about misogyny. I read romance novels to escape the fact that guys are clueless. When my truck overheated going home in the middle of the night and I had to take an unexpected detour. I called my husband and had him stay on the line while I fixed my issue. I told him my location if I turned up missing and he didn't get it saying that's not funny. So, I get the whole issue of being a female is hard but, women already know. It would have been so much better if he didn't have to be educated. He was pretty with a sizable appendage but, what else does he have to offer. He's just Ken.
March 25, 2021
Funny, sweet, quick read. Penelope is over all of her bad experiences with men, personally and professionally. Her boss, rather than letting her work on the account she landed, brings in a man to partner on her project. She's already met Archer when he hit on her at a bar. They bicker constantly at work, each sure they have the best ideas for the project. Outside of work hours, Penelope and Archer have some great moments as they get to know each other better. Both characters grow and learn from each other, and they have great chemistry. Looking forward to book 2 about one of Penelope's best friends.
March 31, 2021
Cindi Madsen kicks off her new Meet Cute series with Penelope and Archer's story.
Penelope is sick and tired of constantly being overlooked and underappreciated by her boss and co-workers. When she has to work with Archer it starts to get complicated quickly. She's just as attracted to him as she is frustrated by him. They have strong chemistry and were fun to read about.
I loved Penelope's friendships just as much as the romance between her and Archer. They provided lots of laughs and fun and I loved how supportive they were of each otjer. I can't wait to read their stories too.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Penelope is sick and tired of constantly being overlooked and underappreciated by her boss and co-workers. When she has to work with Archer it starts to get complicated quickly. She's just as attracted to him as she is frustrated by him. They have strong chemistry and were fun to read about.
I loved Penelope's friendships just as much as the romance between her and Archer. They provided lots of laughs and fun and I loved how supportive they were of each otjer. I can't wait to read their stories too.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
April 8, 2021
I really wanted to venture on books and novels with topics related to feminism, and I knew this book was just that. I loved how I learned a lot from Penny and her friends, about being strong and assertive and to not let anyone trample on me just because I'm a woman. The execution could have been better though. I found events and chapters unnecessary or excessive that doesn't really add up to anything in the story. There was a good dynamic between Archer and Penny, but it could have been built stronger. I found it extreme that from one second Penny hated him then these few things happened and tadah! I hope she writes more about this topic because the idea was there and it was good.
October 7, 2021
Penny decides she needs to not let men push her around so when she meets Archer she is very assertive. When she meets him at work she realizes that she made a mistake being so assertive to him. Archer realizes that Penny is a really nice gal and wants to get to know her better. Archer witnesses how her ex-boyfriend treats her and decides that Penny should be treated better. Archer decides that he needs to get to know her better and that they have a chemistry. Penny is a sweet girl that had too many labels put on her and how she should act. This was a good book!
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