Hadley Bowman is killing it at this quarantine thing. Right up until the day she finds out that her sexy as sin boss is suddenly single. Now, with thoughts of all the wicked things she’d like to do to him running through her mind, she’s started doing the one thing she never does...make mistakes.
And if that's not bad enough, the world is beginning to return to normal, forcing Hadley to put her big girl panties on and deal with him…face to face.
The last thing Jensen Calloway wants after ending his engagement is another erratic woman, but when he catches his assistant on a Vroom call in some surprisingly chic granny panties, he devises the perfect punishment.
An arrangement that soon backfires on them both and reminds him never to mix business with pleasure. In the end, will Jensen break the real heart of his fake fiancé?
So many scenes made me roll my eyes before we even reached the 25% mark in the audio.
Plus I don't know why this specific scene/line annoyed me, but one of her friends said something like "he will fall in love with this dress!"
Like what?
Who falls in love with a dress?
And what is "love" really, if someone can fall in love with a dress?
And if he "loves" a dress, does he love you? Or do you want someone to love you in a specific dress? Or do you want them to love you because of a dress?
Maybe I'm just in a bad mood when I was listening to this. But I'm a little delirious right now, and everything about this stupid book is annoying me.
This was cute. It would've been better, however, if her group of friends weren't so freaking immature. Or maybe I'm just too old for 20-something romances. 😛🤔
This was a light-hearted, slightly predictable fake-dating office romance. I enjoyed the quippy one liners, the WFH/pandemic humor, the supportive ride or die besties and the steamy open door scenes. Enjoyable on audio with two narrators, including the talented Teddy Hamilton. If you want a fun romantic listen this one does the job!
I had to take a break from this one as I was not feeling it. I know everyone says it's supposed to be a lighthearted read but when the h said she inherited a "small inheritance" from her grandmother and said it was enough to pay off her student loans, buy her apartment and pay for a trip for her and her 3 girlfriends to an all-inclusive winery resort type. And then she caps it by saying it wasn't big but it allowed her to do all that, you know as a person from a non-US country I just got strong 1st world problem vibes. Cuz ya know the H lost his brother and father and is this uber-rich company runner who just took over and everyone on his board is just waiting for him to fail so they can stage a takeover. And I could relate to that. And the H had some abandonment issues from his mother, but it all just boils down to the girl having her own apartment, her perfect job and chasing a project she is passionate about and her perfect circle of friends and all of that is just meaningless cuz she is super sad she doesn't have her perfect fella to share all of that with and have some sexy time with him.
Girls would literally live in apartments like this and still have A LOT OF ISSUES
I don't mean to be disrespectful I wish all the best for this author as I can see she is just starting out and there is definitely an audience for this light-hearted distraction for people from their real-life problems, but unfortunately, that person is not me… I just need some sort of relatability from my FMC and when you break it down the humongous obstacles these characters have to overcome to have their perfect white privileged happiest ending evaaaa, I just could not find myself caring about their diddly ass problems.
I got none of this in me for these MCs and just could not find the emotional stake to get invested in their outcome.
But much future happiness for the author, may she find the fandom the likes of Twilight and FSOG.
.....
So continued listening to this one after a short break and oh boy do I regret it. Right off the bat, I am put off by how the author is portraying the interaction between the very American MCs and the Italian family from who they are trying to buy that vineyard. Like there is a conversation between the MCs and the owners' son and the son says at the end of it 'Prego'. And the FMC is immediately reacting with a "what does that mean!?" in an almost alarming way like "what did he say about my moma!? How dare this person to speak another language!" and the MC laughs and reasures her it means thank you. Everything here is wrong and so off in the way, the author goes about introducing a bit of foreignness to the story.
First of all 'Prego' means You're welcome. 'Gracie' means Thank you. A translation for the most used phrase that even a 5-second google search would have given to anyone. So I do not understand why the author uses the wrong translation for the MC to say? Is it supposed to point out that even the uber-educated and smart guy can be wrong on the simplest of things? But that just does not come across as such if it is intended. The reason is after probably many meetings and even the h having gone to this vineyard before she has not once come across anyone saying the word 'Prego' to her and even once expressed curiosity to research some Italian phrases to use when trying to ingratiate herself to potential clients. I know this is supposed to be a light-hearted escape from the realities of the world but this kind of blatant disregard for a foreign culture that the author just thinks will be swept under the carpet under the onslaught of other cute romantic interactions between the MCs and the adorable Italian family it just comes off even more noticeable and disrespectful by the author to another culture and even her readers.
Is this supposed to translate as an adorable clueless of the Americano? Over the last decade or two, we have learned that American cluelessness to the existence of other nations as more than just an entertaining tourist destinations and actual functioning nations full of their own cultural distinctness that goes unnoticed by the self-proclaimed 1 superpower that is America is dangerous. Even the portrayal of the Italian family as the most cliched folksy entertaining caricature to ingratiate this world to the MCs and the reader is problematic and offensive. It just brings to the surface that the author does not take this story she is creating as a valid serious portrayal of people and just employs some cliches and nations for the sake of romantic impact. And so my rating drops down to 1 star and I think I and this author will not meet up again.
Not sure if I will even make it to the end of this book, I am currently at 25%, and just the sheer amount of problematic stuff taking me out of the story and making me dislike the MCs is taking away any interest I have in how things get resolved for them.
Ps. Mentioned that the grandma is New Yorker, which means the h bought an apartment in New York from the inheritance that "was not too much" in her words from her grandma. I can only imagine how much real estate is for New York for her to be able to buy with pitiful inheritance.
I absolutely loved this book. It's funny, sweet and shows you what great friends are willing to do for each other. Hadley and Jensen are a great couple- just as soon as they figure that out. But the stuff they go through only makes them stronger Friendship goals with these ladies
This book was awesome, I really want the author to release the rest of the series.
Hadley Bowman is killing it at this quarantine thing. Right up until the day she finds out that her sexy as sin boss is suddenly single. Now, with thoughts of all the wicked things she’d like to do to him running through her mind, she’s started doing the one thing she never does...make mistakes.
And if that's not bad enough, the world is beginning to return to normal, forcing Hadley to put her big girl panties on and deal with him…face to face.
The last thing Jensen Calloway wants after ending his engagement is another erratic woman, but when he catches his assistant on a Vroom call in some surprisingly chic granny panties, he devises the perfect punishment.
He had been going out with his dead brother's fiancé, business partner's daughter to appease the board but when he found her less faithful he broke it off, which led him to ask Hadley to pose as his fiancé.
As any other fake engaged trope goes they fall for eachother, their whole charade falls apart when his ex and his father tries to sabotage him, she willingly steps down from her position and ends their relationship to help him keep his family business empire but the bad guys were a step ahead of them.
At last Hadley solves all the problems and they get back together. The best thing about this book is the gang.Knox, Embery, Nina,Taylor Knox's brother and Hadley. Omg i would read this book again and again for the convo between these characters alone.
It was funny, cute, romantic and overall delightfu. This definitely comfort read material. It seems like all i am reading these days are comfort reads. Huh 🙄❤️ who cares i am happy with my picks.
OMG....What can I say that won't give out spoilers? I am completely speechless for once in my life while writing this review.....
The characters were wildly amazing. I love reading an getting to know these characters on a more personal level!! I connected with Hadley Bowman. She is a hardcore business woman with a heart of gold and someone that everyone can look up to. And Jensen, well he is sexy as hell business owner and boss. Also let's not forget Hadley's friends/family!! Yep, they are the kind of family some people only dream of having!! The kind that's got your back no matter what!!
The storyline, gosh where do I start?!?!?! This story had me laughing one breath while try to catch my breath from laughter in the next breath. It has a strong and very well written plot. I felt as if I was the fly on the wall watching every scene unfold and catching all the feelers from deep within my soul. Both of these author's are amazing storytellers in their own right but watching this story unfold right before my eyes tells me that this team is PHENOMENAL together!! I was shocked, sad, mad, hurt, and laughing while reading this story. I loved it even more than the first story and I just can't find the words to express it anymore than that. Just go, hurry and grab your copy of this book and read it for yourself and see what I am talking about!! You won't regret it, because I didn't!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS READ!!!!
This was a predictable fake-dating office romance set at the end of a pandemic and wfh schedule. While I really enjoyed Teddy Hamilton's voice on the audiobook as usual, even he couldn't make me enjoy this book. As a corporate worker, I couldn't get over how unrealistic this was in terms of return to office policies and professionalism. Also both main characters as well as Hadley's best friends were super immature and honestly cringy.
Lot’s of fun and flirty feel gives this office faux-mance a softer edge than many others. It’s a sizzling slow burn with hot n heavy growling, dirty talking and close encounters. Oh and the sassy banter is pristine and on point. The overall vibe is still warm and endearing. So since I’m kinda backassward, I read this one (# 2) bf Quarantine Crush (# 1) -not a problem. They are truly enjoyable to read in any order (or listen to). Moxie Rose is the pen name of a duo of authors (Bam Shepherd and Heather Hildebrand). This new incarnation has released 2 hot and crazy contemporary romances that will evolve into a few more instalments that continue the romantic escapades of the compleat freak show that is this group of friends. 4 sassy and strong NYC kick ass ladies who have each other’s backs wether in a styling-meltdown, a baking emergency or highway robbery. The writing is perfectly in line with the duos pen name -Moxie Rose - ie. Flirty, fun with a sassy sting and wicked barbs warped in a sweet and wholesome pretty package.
Corporate Crush is fun, hilarious, sexy, and sweet. I loved it more than Quarantine Crush, which I also gave 5 stars to and did really enjoy. There is just something about Hadley and Jenson.
Hadley is the type of heroine you love - she's sassy, strong, smart, and caring. Jensen is not that typical alpha gazillionare who is tamed by the girl. As a matter of fact, he really stood apart for his sincerity. Another major plus is the family dynamic on both sides. You can't help but want to see these characters intertwined in hijinks.
The plot was great too and boy we all need a friend squad like Hadley. I mean seriously. Ride or die, isn't even enough to describe it.
Seeing this cast of characters going forward is going to be a real treat so I hope there are more books to come (not just the one we get a hint at).
This book had me rolling. I mean, the best phrase that i read in Corporate Crush: “Hey, bitches,” I coo. “Check out my new ride!” I barely get the words out before dissolving into laughter. “What the hell did you do to her?” Embry hisses, pulling me down from his back and brushing sand from my legs and butt. Christian raises his hands. “It wasn’t me,” he protests. “The dads let her have some of that devil’s lettuce.” “I like to call it jazz cabbage,” I insert because it seems important.
I couldn’t put it down from start to finish, this boom had me invested. Moxie Rose took a crappy situation and turned it into a book series. Hadley is strong, self sufficient, and very independent. She grabs onto projects and completes them. Jensen has met his match in Hadley. So many good, sweet moments that make you say awww.
Hadley is a strong woman who knows what she wants. Or, at least, she thinks she does. It isn't until she ends up in a compromising position on a Vroom call that she begins to take steps in a direction that was never a part of her plans.
Jensen is sexy and comes from a well-to-do family, and he is also Hadley's boss. When he asks a favor of her, it takes them both by surprise. But while playing a game they both plan to win, they end up taking a turn neither of them planned. It could ruin their working relationship and break them both.
I love this collaboration. It's no secret. These two authors work well together. They bring the intricate story and sprinkle it with a bit of drama, a dash of sexy, and a pinch of humor, and it just makes me want to read more. I'm looking forward to reading what they have in store next.
Yeah, I enjoyed reading this, perhaps more so because of the story's pandemic setting. I've never come across any romance novels that use WFH situations. Okay, this is a benefit for the first novel I read with a pandemic setting.
The plot of this fast paced story was predictable. But, in the midst of other heavy reading, we need a light read that doesn't make us rack our brains, right? At the very least, I'm one of those who requires it.
Fake dating and office romance with a perfect hot boss is a combination that appeals to me, especially with the boss's supportive conglomerate family. I'm sold. Such a Cinderella story.
Hadley's friends were particularly irritating tho. They are so childish, my God. They made me cringe. It bothered me a lot while I was reading. I could no longer see the intelligent assistant in Hadley because of them.
But, aside from that, I kinda liked it. The main characters had great chemistry. It was a fun read.
What you get: Hadley x Jensen Fake relationship/fiance Boss x assistant Amazing friend group HEA Conniving ex + her father Cliffhanger to start next book in series
The book was cute. Though, fast paced. Things happened a bit fast, mainly their relationship. The execution of the plot twist was well written, though predictable. I did like Jensen. That man was hot AF. 🥵
It was a different type of fake relationship as they went straight into being engaged rather than a relationship. I enjoyed that. The chemistry was great, but again...really fast. The spice was unfortunately fast too. I love and need a prolonged spice scene that is more than a few pages. 😅😏
Hadley returns in book 2, Corporate Crush. You may remember her as Embry's friend that pushed her to Shoot-Her-Shot with Knox in book 1, well this is her book. Totally different, totally fun, and still includes the best gal-gang there is. As the world begins returning to normal Hadley finds herself playing fake fiancé to her gorgeous billionaire boss, Jensen who she's been crushing on for years, to salvage a deal that will make or break them. The girls are there to support and interrogate, and there are so many laughs and sexy moments along the way. Looking forward to Nina's and Taylor's books.
I really enjoyed this book, because it was a good story and fun to read. Hadley's friends are awesome. I enjoy a good fake relationship/fiance story too. I highly recommend this book. Jensen approaches Hadley with a proposal to pose as his fiance in order to keep from losing a big account with a vineyard. In the process, they develop feelings for each other. After they admit it, Hadley's friends have to make sure Jensen passes the test (which is hilarious). Then at the celebration of the deal everything goes crazy. There is a happy ending but it takes a minute to get there.
Their want for each other would be sickening if I wasn’t immediately sucked into the 2 main characters and the need for them to get together. Laughing isn’t the right way to describe the reaction throughout this installment, I would call it belly rolls! The whole group and the shenanigans they create are what friendships are built on and for some are lucky enough to find. I CAN NOT wait for #3 in the series! Thank you for the tear inducing laughs!
I really enjoyed this book! I loved how Hadley and Jenson's relationship developed through the story. It never felt forced and I was truly rooting for them from chapter one. I also loved the banter and the friendships. I found myself laughing alot. Hadley's friends where hilarious and I really hope we get to read more of them in the future. Getting both point of views was awesome and seeing Hadley passion winery was great. She made me want to buy a bottle of wine! Overall I loved the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I really enjoyed listening to this book! It was lighthearted, fun and hilarious! Hadley had confidence and didn't take her self seriously at the same time. Her friends were awesome! Chapter 11 was especially entertaining! There were some predictive elements to the story, but I don't think it took anything away from the book. Teddy Hamilton and Emma Wilder do a fabulous job as always with the narration!
This was just exactly what I needed this week! Hadley and the girls are back with a new story as life starts to get back to normal after quarantine and it’s fantastic!!! I loved Hadley and Jenson they have super hot chemistry and this book is great fun to read. Can’t wait for the next adventure with these guys. 5 stars ⭐️
5stars because I know this book will be one I reread. It is a romcom as they are meant to be, love the characters, th story has all the elements it needs, it is a light hearted, easy read that is well written. Hoping there will be another in this series and think I now need to go back and read quarantine crush again.
I’ll be honest…this book is neither good nor bad… it’s cutesy. A few hours spend nicely. I probably won’t remember much of this book in a year, though 😅
The main characters are nice. Bit superficial but likeable. Her friends are…uhm…interesting, but nowhere near believable. The interrogation scene was weird….I didn’t like the dynamic of it.
I liked this book the best! Something about the boss trope that helped the story. It was also a perk that the boss wasn't a total jerk to begin with. The fake dating turned into actual love was a good balance as well. While the book was filled with tropes, it is to be expected for a rom-com type of book. It was an easy and quick read to fill a gap.
Moxie Rose absolutely killed it with this one! I loved it so much I read it twice! I couldn’t put it down. We all need a group of friends who are willing to do anything for us. Definitely need to read this one!
Fantastic! This book had me laughing out loud. It can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone but if you’ve read Quarantine Crush you will see some familiar faces. I love this group of strong and sassy friends who will do anything for each other.
I always enjoy a marriage of convenience and this was very well done. I love that the main character was curvy and although she was “marrying” her boss, he has a crush on her for yearssss so the pining is there from the beginning!
I really like this books it's a romcom very lite and easy to read it's good for when you have some block. And the audiobooks with Teddy Hamilton I loved. A really recomended.