The Debt

by Natalie Wrye

a brother's best friend billionaire romance

Unknown Binding

About the author

Natalie Wrye is a reader, writer and tequila lover best known for writing thrilling billionaire romance and characters whose HEA's you'll love rooting for.

A notebook hoarder whose books have been featured on USA Today's HEA and PopSugar, when she's not watching Netflix re-runs or yelling at college basketball games on TV, she's usually crafting sexy suspenseful stories about hard-bodied, take-charge heroes and the strong-willed women who crave them.

She loves it when people get weird with her on IG, NatalieWrye.com or NatalieWrites@NatalieWrye.com.

Reviews

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lachlan left New York after he made a mistake that affected his family company, he wished to stay away for ever to try to forget his sins, but that isn’t possible when your best friend and his beautiful sister still live there. He tried to stay away from Sabrina for years because he doesn't deserve her but every time is more difficult to hide his attraction. When Lachlan was invited at Drew’s wedding as the best man he knows that if he isn’t careful he could destroy his friendship, what he doesn’t know is that Sabrina is in danger and he is the only person who can protect her.

I really like Natalie Wrye writing, the suspenseful and fast paced rhythm don’t allow any distraction.
I was so invested into the story that I couldn't take a full breath till the end, every detail that brings the main characters near the truth was unexpected, I started to doubt about everything, I suspected of everyone like them, fortunately the end is perfectly tied up.

I adore a troubled hero, Lachlan is well depicted you can feel his regrets and you can follow and cheer for his slow redemption. Sabrina was a nice discovery, I thought she was an helpless heiress but she grows stronger at every turn of page, she gets so powerful, especially in the end, I was in awe.

I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series, I can’t get enough of these thrilling stories.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Geri Stoikova · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review by Geri Stoikova
***
If you'd like your romance novels with a lot of suspense , an alpha protective hero and a strong heroine than The Debt by Natalie Wrye is the book for you . This is Lachlan and Sabrina's story . Sabrina is his best friend little sister who is secretly in love with him so the chemistry is of the charts . And she's the Maid of honour on her brother's wedding . Lachlan is the best friend of Drew , Sabrina's brother , and is the best man on said wedding . And those two are forced together not only for the wedding . There is a ton of secrets that don't want to stay hidden , ghosts from the past , car chases , an engagement party - turned - Bruce Willis movie . And I have to say that I loved all of that . There is a witty banter , a wicked humour , a well written dialogues , a lot of twists and turns . Even made a list of suspects for the villain in the story and I got it right . Almost shouted aloud ' I knew it ' when I read the extended epilogue and my suspicions got confirmed . So now I'm waiting for the next story in these series . Meanwhile I will read the other stories from The Manhattan Nights series and watch some Bruce Willis movies .

[Suzana · Rating 5 out of 5]

✔A gorgeous, but slightly tortured, sullen, brooding alpha hero who thinks he is a family screw up and not the right man for our heroine
✔A stubborn, headstrong, yet vulnerable heroine
✔City suspense
✔A wedding
✔Family saga
✔Secrets and lies
✔Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
✔Unpredictable twists and turns
✔Best friend's little sister / Brother’s best friend
✔Billionaire romance
✔Forbidden-ish
✔Enough emotional baggage to fill a room
✔Emotional roller-coaster
✔Off – the- charts chemistry
✔Gripping/gritty/raw
✔Twisty
✔Angsty
✔Witty / snarky
✔Heart-melting
✔Fast paced
✔Page turner
✔Intense
✔Passionate
✔All consuming
✔Second chance

The Debt is the seventh book in Manhattan Nights series by Natalie Wrye. Each book can be read as a standalone but if you are like I am, you will want definitely to start from the beginning enjoying the ride, getting to know characters – their background and falling for them. It is an emotional story that will hit you straight in the feels and yet ticks all the boxes. This was yet another riveting, engaging, charming and a swoon worthy story that just captures you from the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed every single page of it, and never wanted it to end. It is very well written and developed with the simple yet powerful storytelling. The characters are complex, relatable; the plot is strong and it captures reader’s attention immediately.

Lachlan and Sabrina are such a great characters and so amazing together. Both have an emotional past and baggage. They both have insecurities and their timing is a bit off but when they are together everything just makes sense. I was rooting for them from the moment they interacted. They stole my heart. Separately they are beautiful mess, together they are perfectly imperfect. Everything about Lachlan and Sabrina seems natural, honest and easy, though “easy” is not in their vocabulary. They know they shouldn’t be attracted to each other but they can’t help it. Their chemistry and tension were everything and so strong. The stakes are high and the mystery surrounds them. Their story is deeply moving with a roller coaster feelings; ups and downs. They have obstacles, heartache and difficulties to overcome. I loved that they are real, deeply emotional, angsty, passionate and sexy, but raw, heart breaking and heartwarming. At times they seemed effortless and the cute, tender moments and teasing added to their connection and love story. Loved the way they fought for their love and happiness.

So well-written, so enjoyable, so entertaining with amazing characters, banter, suspense all the feels and romance. A great addition to this series. I completely adored the unique storyline, real characters and a build-up. I highly recommend it.

[Sandra Shipman ~ Two Book Pushers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Debt is the seventh book in the Manhattan Nights series by Natalie Wrye. You can technically read each book as standalone since they are different couples but there is a storyline that connects them. One man really…Chris Jackson. So I recommend starting from the beginning and if you have already then you know this couple. Lachlan is Drew’s best friend, and Sabrina is Drew’s sister.

It’s almost the big day for Drew and Nancy! So of course his best man and her Maid of Honor would be in the same place at the same time. New York City for five days of wedding preparations and parties. Lachlan and Sabrina haven’t seen each other in six months, since the night they kissed. He went back to London and she went back to Connecticut. And since then their lives have changed so much. Lachlan has been miserable. Sabrina has been shunned. And now they have been thrown together in a twisted game. One they didn’t ask to play. They don’t know who to trust. They don’t know who is out to get them…

What they do know is they still have that spark between them. They are fighting it. He doesn’t think he deserves her, that he will only hurt her in the end. She doesn’t want to want him but her heart always has. Seven years is a long time to crush on your brother’s best friend. It was easier when he was across the pond but now? It’s torture. For both of them. One thing is for sure though…they need to solve this mystery before it is too late. And will they also find a way to find each other in the dark?

Natalie never disappoints with her twists and turns. Sometimes I don’t even know which way is up. Lol. This one has more angst with the couple. They both have their own set of issues they need to work through. It’s not easy. It’s not all roses and butterflies. There are some bumps and bruises along the way. (No, there is no abuse!) I am hoping that I spotted the next couple! They are going to be a fun pair if I am correct. It was also cool to catch up with Drew and his groomsmen. They are so funny.

Quotes:

On instinct, I pick my seltzer up off the bar.
And before my lungs have time to inflate, I see a vision. A memory. A past ripped from a dream.
A walking fantasy wrapped all in silk.
The most stunning sight of the entire night walks in, smiling demurely. Sabrina.

"I'm not the one who's in trouble here," he offers.
"Oh, and I am?"
"In ways you don't even know, sweetheart."

“…I’ve never been the hero in anyone's story, Sabrina. And I'm not going to be the hero of yours.”

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sabrina's brother is getting married, and she's in the wedding party along with his best friend Lachlan of course, so it's about to get interesting. See, they kissed six months prior, and neither has seen the other since that time. You already know that Lachlan is trying to follow bro code but see that never works when you have the type of chemistry these two have. Despite the complications of this situation, it's not even the craziest thing to happen. They're thrown into a dangerous game that has them wondering who the hell they can actually trust. Obviously, it also puts them together a lot so denying their feelings won't work very well & that chemistry isn't going to be denied with so much intensity going on. The twists are coming in hot which had my heart racing since I'm all about the suspense in books, and frankly, I was suspicious of everyone LOL! There's also an element of angst that only makes it more intense for me as there's so much going on that I didn't know which way was up. Anyway, I LOVED this story, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Debt is Book #7 in the Manhattan Nights series by Ms. Wrye and although you can read it as a standalone, I would definitely suggest you read the entire series in order. There are quite a few characters and each book focuses on one couple, but the other characters make appearances so it makes for a much more enjoyable read if you know them. That being said, I absolutely loved Lachlan and Sabrina’s story! There’s always mystery and secrets in Ms. Wrye’s novels and this one is no exception. There are quite a few twists & turns and shocking developments that will keep you reading into the night trying to figure it all out! Of course, there’s her signature humor, snarky banter and wild chemistry between the two main characters that we’ve come to expect, but there’s also all the feels in this one. Another winning read by Natalie Wrye! I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to read an early copy of this book.

[The Dragon Den Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review by The Dragon Den
* * * * *
Talk about a bad situation with benefits. Someone is coming after you, attacks you and is putting your life in danger - specifically to the fault of a horrible ex and a sibling who may or may not be into soemething shady...but you are stuck in the care and protection of a hot alpha male who just happens to be your brother's best friend and the chemistry is off the charts!
But of course he is making it difficult.
No matter, things will work out.
They just have to work around a wedding, see if Drew is innocent, save our heroine while dodging the bruiser who is coming at her in bathrooms and hotels, and the man behind the curtain wanting her in their grasp.

[Petra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Debt is part of the Manhattan Nights series.

Sabrina is Drew’s sister and Lachlan is best friends with Drew. They haven’t seen each other in years and meet again at Drew’s wedding reception. It’s evident that they have great chemistry together. But they each have their own problems, demons of past and present, to deal with.

From the moment Sabrina is attacked, the story picks up pace. I couldn’t stop reading, curious to what would happen next.

There are moments of intense conversation between Sabrina and Lachlan, two people who are clearly made for each other. In the end it’s all about love and a happy ending.

The story is confusing at times, but becomes clear towards the end, when each piece of the puzzle falls into place.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Lachlan and Sabrina’s journey. Sabrina is stubborn, headstrong, and has a mind of her own and does not listen to anybody, and she is the maid-of-honor at her brother’s wedding, while Lachlan is her brother Drew’s best friend, and is going to be his best man. Sabrina is more than capable of standing up for herself, and there is intense chemistry between her and Lachlan. This is a well written story which is intriguing, and with humor, witty banter, family, friendships, bickering, and love, which leads to an entertaining and a compelling page turner. I look forward reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Debt is part of the Manhattan Nights series by Natalie Wrye. This book can be read as a standalone. Natalie provides great plot twists to keep you guessing what is coming next for her main characters. She gives her characters witty lines and great banter with a little bit romance thrown in. You are never sure where the story line is headed and that to me is all part of the fun in reading a book. Lachlan & Sabrina didn't disappoint. I hope you will give this couple a chance to bring laughter, sadness, disappointment, smiles and love into your life. I am very fortunate to have received and early copy. Thanks for another great book Natalie!

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lachlan and Sabrina's story, and while this is book 7 in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone. Sabrina is very stubborn and headstrong, and with that means she doesn't take advice well, and often does the opposite, which is really where we start this story. Lachlan is trying his hardest to stay away from her, but he is drawn to her, and when trouble finds her, he is the white knight....but now the question is: who can they trust. And with this question, the bond becomes stronger. This really is an enjoyable read, with us not knowing things obviously, kept you engaged in the story and watching them grow together made it all the more enjoyable.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets,



Secrets tear people apart and Lachlan has secrets that he’d rather stay secret, but soon Lachlan learns that not everything can stay buried forever.

And those very secrets are going to come back and bite him in his very sexy ass.

Sabrina is haunted by the sins of her ex and she can’t seem to get away from the fallout fast enough, but with her brother’s upcoming nuptials she doesn’t have a choice, but to go back and face everything.

Danger and secrets revealed will Lachlan and Sabrina come out unscathed? Read The Debt to find out!

Disclaimer I received an arc copy for an honest and voluntary review!

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that drags you in and doesn't let go until the finish.
Lachlan knows that he should stay away from his best friends little sister Sabrina but when she is in danger he is the first one there.
Will he be able to keep her safe when they don't know who is after her and why.
So many twists and turns with plenty of drama and suspense but can they stay alive long enough to work out who it is.
The chemistry between them is off the charts but he doesn't think that he is good enough for her but will she be able to convince him that he is all that she wants.
A brilliant read not to be missed.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Foodiegirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Natalie Wrye's Manhattan Nights series The Debt is book 7 in the collection. In this story Lachlan and Sabrina are the main characters.
Sabrina's brother Drew is best friends with Lachlan who is going to be best man at Drew's wedding. The Maid of Honor is Sabrina they have a complicated relationship and this wedding is just bring that out more. This book is snarky, funny, hot and sweet page turner. I have enjoyed all the books in this series and highly recommend that you add some to your TBR.

[AM · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF
Received an ARC. Seems the review copy wasn't even edited. There were so many errors, missing words, miswrites etc. it made it impossible to enjoy the story, which seemed ok. In one sentence it referred to the hero's "sister's best friend"... but it's actually his best friend's sister. Frustrating!

The characters think about the past in the present but the way it was written was confusing and hard to follow at times.

The storyline was interesting and compelling, but I couldn't get through the lack of editing and proofreading to get through it.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Debt by Natalie Wrye is book 7 in the Manhattan Nights. This is the story of Lachlan and Sabrina.
Lachlan is best friends with Drew who is Sabrina's brother. Lachlan is going to be best man at Drew's wedding and Sabrina is the Maid of Honor. They have a mixed up feeling between them and this wedding is just bring that out more. I found this book to be funny, hot and a page turning read for me. I will be looking for more books from this author.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by the author and I really enjoyed their writing. Lachlan and Sabrina’s story is quite entertaining, funny and witty. They have intense and undeniable chemistry, as well as witty banter and back and forth. I had so much fun reading their story. I loved their characters. Even the side characters are entertaining. I'm looking forward to reading more books by the author.

[Blanca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve heard from this author and I think it was a good into to her. While I figured that her writing style isn’t my favorite I still had a good time reading it.

The tenacity of Sabrina that kept her going and kept her moving forward after what she’d endured was a definite favorite part of the story. Even up to the end in the epilogue she just keeps pushing onward rather than talking herself out of what she wanted for herself.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 7 in the Manhattan Nights series and even though I really love Natalie's writing, this one is not my favorite.

Nevertheless, the story is well written as always, there's a lot of angst, some action scenes, anticipation for what comes next, banter between the two main characters, hot scenes and a sweet HEA.

It's not the authors fault I couldn't connect with those two characters. But I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series.

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Debt was an okay read for me. It has alot going on, some angst, and I tried but couldn't connect with the characters to well.
It took me a few days to read this story, and usually when it's one of this authors books, I devour it. I know you can't love all stories. With that being said read it yourself, and decide.

[Christine C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sabrina and Lachlan have been a long time coming and their story was worth the wait. It was full of angst and a lot of frustration, but the end was so sweet and well worth it. I can't wait for Jacob & Sophie in The Con to see how things with Chris Jackson unfold...

[Lynne Davison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable novel with twists and turns.Clear emotional angst and ended with a happy ever after

[delicatesoul88 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The banter alone between the MMC and FMC was enough to draw me in and keep me hooked throughout!

[Loree Bee · Rating 2 out of 5]

TLDR: My Ratings:
Star Rating = 2 ⭐️ ‘s (I didn't love it & probably wouldn't recommend)
Heat Level = ☕️ (Warm - Likely in part because I wasn’t able to fully engage with Lachlan and Sabrina.)
Recommended for: Lovers of high-angst stories and/or fans of the Manhattan Nights series.

Unfortunately, this book was too angsty for my liking. I don’t mind a little angst, but in this case I found it over the top. There were points where the characters contradicted themselves within the same scene. It was enough that I found myself confused and disengaged from the story at points.

This was the first book in this series that I have read, and while I didn’t find this one to my liking, I do enjoy other books by this author. This one just didn’t do it for me.

I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book but YMMV.

My Rating Scale:
5 ⭐️: A favorite, highly recommend & will definitely re-read
4 ⭐️: I really liked it & will recommend it
3 ⭐️: I enjoyed it & might recommend it
2 ⭐️: Meh, I didn't love it & probably wouldn't recommend
1 ⭐️: Not for me, wouldn't recommend

Heat Level:
🤯 What did I just read?: Uncategorized, because… what did I just read?
☕️ Warm: Sweet ‘greeting-card company’ level romance kind of book.
🥵 Hot: Unabashedly & deliciously smelt, spicy, dirty, and/or kinky kind of book.
🔥 Scorching: Find a private spot to read this book. 😉