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Billionaire Next Door #3

The Billionaire's Secret Crush

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Love might be a choice, but some choices are off limits.They say opposites attract—and I’m not going to disagree. In fact, I’d be doing my best to see if the attraction was mutual if not for one little thing.She’s my best friend’s little sister.And since she and her brother are close, she’s become the honorary sister for all the guys in our group.But I don’t see her as a sister.At all.She’s funny and smart.And gorgeous.But I don’t want to make it weird with the guys, so I figure I’m going to leave it be. And if enlisting her help to plan a fundraiser for my job is a convenient excuse to spend time alone with her? So what?The only person I’m hurting is me.

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2022

148 people are currently reading
69 people want to read

About the author

Elizabeth Maddrey

69 books253 followers
USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.

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5 stars
183 (60%)
4 stars
86 (28%)
3 stars
24 (7%)
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6 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,180 reviews52 followers
October 8, 2022
This is a great story. Cody, who become a billionaire after investing in stock market with some other friends, finds himself in charge of his company's Christmas gala courtesy of his boss. Having no idea what a Christmas gala entails, he enlists Meghan, the sister of one of his best friend' for help,
Meghan, a bookstore owner, comes up with clever ideas to get foot traffic, into theirs. She's independent and doesn't want to ask her brother or Cody to hep. The two have some issues they need to work. This is a fabulous read and I love this trophy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
857 reviews26 followers
January 25, 2023
Cody has had a crush on his friend's younger sister for years, but he's never acted on it. But what if she feels the same way?

Megan has had a crush on Cody for years. But she's never acted on those feelings because he sees her as a little sister, doesn't he?

In this story, we have two characters who are both interested in each other, but neither one realizes the other feels the same way. Once they do finally realize that, they start dating, while keeping it a secret from their friends and family because they don't want to deal with the fallout of their reactions. Of course, as we all know, secrets like these never stay secret for long.

Though this story does have some basic tropes that we experience in romance novels, one of the things I liked the most about this story is that the characters actually communicated with each other. When one of them was concerned about something, they brought that up with the other person and discussed it with each other. Well, almost every time. It wouldn't be a romance novel if there weren't a few bumps in the road.

As a general note, this story is a Christian romance. Overall, the author did a pretty good job of balancing the Christian statements without being preachy, and it is very clear that the characters have a strong faith and that faith is important to them. There were a few places, though, where non-Christian readers would say the prose did get preachy. So, if you are someone who would get annoyed at God and Jesus being included on a regular basis in nearly any conversation, then this book is not going to be for you.

For this read, I received a copy of the audiobook from the publisher. The audiobook is dual-narrated and the narrators did a technically good job. The male narrator's voice initially annoyed me - which is totally a me problem and had nothing to do with his narrating ability - but I did get used to it by about a third of the way in and enjoyed listening to the rest of it.

I don't think this is a series that I would actively seek out the other books to read, but if someone handed me a copy and I had a few hours available, I might read it.
4,589 reviews33 followers
October 10, 2022
Who would expect a billionaire romance to actually give you something to think about for living your life. Elizabeth Maddrey does when Cody responds to a rude driver who has honked and given him the one finger wave with “I took a moment to pray for him. How frustrating his life must be to feel the need to react that way over having to wait a moment in a line at the post office?” Probably will help my blood pressure and prayer life if I can remember to do that and not respond angrily. Okay, the book also has interesting characters, romance, humor and the angst of falling for your brother’s best friend and/or your best friend’s sister.
505 reviews8 followers
October 4, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. I've found the whole series to be so much more than I anticipated. Given the current trend of Billionaire books, I was a bit leery of this series. However, this is so beyond those books, I hesitate to call it one. The fact that these men are billionaires doesn't mean they have no problems, or buy their way out of problems. I love that. These books have a surprising depth to them that I love. This one was no exception. I loved the characters. I'd been waiting for Megan's story for a while, and I'm so happy with the payoff!

Read it! It's so good.
3,969 reviews1,764 followers
June 23, 2023
Who’d have thunk I’d be swooning over billionaires, but Elizabeth Maddrey’s ‘Billionaire Next Door’ series has me all atwitter. This is the third book and I love how connected they are through the characters but also how easy it would be to read any of the books in any order. So, if you haven’t dived into this series, fear not, Cody and Megan’s story is the perfect place to start.

These heroes are definitely not the bad boy billionaire archetype. They are regular guys who just happened to make some astute investments as a group that really paid off. Like really! I love how this series explores both the burdens and joys of wealth and how each hero strives to honour God with their prosperity.

And this time we have an….eeeeeeppppppp…..secret crush turned secret relationship that is all kinds of awesomesauce! Love the way it starts out with both Megan and Cody trying to squash down their feelings for one another. Megan’s been the tag along ‘little sister’ to her brother’s friends for years so it’s no wonder Cody is wrestling with his secret crush, while Megan is positive that he doesn’t see her as anything more than little sister material. It was fun being inside their heads as they mull over furtive longings and I was giddy with anticipation, waiting for the time when all would be revealed.

Maddrey is generous with providing page-time for all the recurring characters in this series. Love the depth in the relationships from light-hearted kidding to calling someone out for being a doofus. 🙂 And the steadfast support they provide to each other, even if they are at odds. These are the kind of characters I mourn over not being real people in my life.

And….another eeeepppppp….Megan owns a bookstore! A struggling indie bookstore that she’s not sure she’ll be able to keep open for much longer. Until some creative thinking turns everything around. There’s tons of interesting tidbits about books and publishing and even indie authors which was fun to read about.

And hoorah, there are still unattached billionaires in need of romance so there are going to be more books in this series and I can’t wait!

I listened to the audible edition of The Billionaire’s Secret Crush performed by Joel Simler and Emma Faye and I really enjoyed having two narrators — really brought Cody and Megan to life for me.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/06/23/t...
43 reviews
September 30, 2023
Cody had a secret crush on Megan and Megan had a secret crush on Cody!
Cody and Megan's love story is fantastic. Cody is a Billionaire as he was part of his friend Scott's stock market scheme. He works for Ballentine. Megan owns her grandma's bookstore. She is Austin's younger sister. He is our friend from book 2. Cody is his best friend. They have had a crush on each other for years but never said anything. He asks her to help him with a fundraiser and as they spend time together, they realize they want to be more than friends. He proposes to her at the fundraiser gala. Cody said: Definitely we're friends.  I just wonder, sometimes, if that's all we are? If it's all we can be, or if there's a chance for more. Megan said: I'd really like there to be.
Cody? Is there a reason you won't kiss me? I shook my head. The few flimsy reasons I'd thought I had evaporated like mist in the sunlight of her words. I lowered my mouth to hers and the time for worrying was over.
I love you, Megan. There's no question in my mind that you're the woman I want to spend my life with. I live you too, Cody. His grin flashed again before his mouth covered mine.
Dear Jesus, thank you. Thank you for this group of friends. For my mom. For the blessings we all have in you. Bless this food to our bodies, and our bodies to your service. In your name, amen. I squeezed Megan's hand and added to my prayer in my thoughts. Thank you for Megan. Help me know how to show her how much I love her.
Megan, I love you. I don't want to live my life without you. You make everything brighter and full of joy. Will you marry me? Of course I will. I love you.

Elizabeth has written another fascinating book about being a Billionaire,  owning a bookstore and of course falling in love. I recommend this book and all of Elizabeth's books to everyone.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,312 reviews43 followers
September 21, 2022
Oh, I’m having so much fun with this series of books by Elizabeth Maddrey.
When I first started reading “Billionaire” stories I thought, “Oh, these are just going to be fluff books.” But I was wrong!
These books written by Elizabeth Maddrey have so much more in them. Each of her books has a wonderful lesson that we all can learn. She covers things that are relatable to all of us even though these guys are billionaires.
Money doesn’t have to be the main thing or make a person lay around eating bon-bons all day long. In these stories, the author shows the human side of the characters and all their struggles.
I love this story because one of the main characters owns a bookstore and we learn about all the pressures that come with that. I love that she doesn’t want help from her brother and his “billionaire” friends. She wants to find ways to keep the store going, and she does some really creative things.
Another fun part was the struggle Megan and Cody have with their feelings for each other.
The author brought in drama, fun banter, romance, and beautiful examples of God’s love.
Elizabeth Maddrey is a gifted author, and her books always bring a smile to my face.
If you enjoy romance and fun books then you'll like this story. I highly recommend you pick it up.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
1,016 reviews33 followers
October 5, 2022
Cody and Megan have been friends for years - he's part of her brother's friend group, and they all treat her like a sister. So how can he ever become the 'more than friends' that he's long wished for without wrecking everything? Megan has cared for Cody in a special way for a long time but is convinced that he could never see her like that. When working on a fundraiser brings the two together, will they gather up the courage to admit what they each want, or will fear drive them apart? And even if they do decide to get together, can they withstand the forces that will try to break them apart again?

Another great read in the series. One of the things that I really appreciate about these series is that, while money sometimes comes up, it doesn't feel like being a billionaire is the relevant character's identity - it's more an incidental fact. I tend to avoid billionaire romances in general, but I'm loving this series. In this particular case, I enjoyed watching Cody and Megan, who it's been clear from book 1 are meant to be a couple, finally recognising and acknowledging that fact themselves. Of course, their path isn't too straightforward (or it wouldn't be worth reading!), so I appreciated the way that they worked to overcome problems. I also appreciate the inspirational content - helpful and never over the top. All in all, a great story and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Profile Image for ELMorehead.
286 reviews1 follower
September 16, 2022
What Will it Take for Cody and Megan To Go From Friends to Lifetime 💞?

Master Storyteller, Elizabeth Maddrey, has created another Compelling, Christian Romance, in "The Billionaire's Secret Crush (Billionaire Next Door Book 3)"! You'll best understand this Novel's Settings & Characters, by 📖 this Series in Chronological Order.
Megan asks to help Cody organize his job's major Fundraising Banquet, to help him out. But can she come up with some new strategies, to bring more business into her Bookstore? When will Cody finally see her as more than a friend?
Cody's "crushed" 😍 on Megan for years. He eagerly accepts her help planning the Banquet; because he gets to spend more time with her, and she's smart. But what does he do, when faced with a sudden major family issue? Will there ever be a 💗ing Relationship with Megan, without God's help?
I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Awesome 📗, to find the Answers! This Story had me wanting to visit Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia. I can't wait to 📖 the next 📗 in the "Billionaire Next Door" Series! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Margaret Nelson.
1,656 reviews
September 17, 2022
The Billionaire's Secret Crush is book 3 in Elizabeth Maddrey’s Billionaire Next Door series. It will be of benefit to read books 1 & 2 first (The Billionaire’s Nanny and The Billionaire’s Best Friend), as the characters are introduced there, and knowing what happens in the first two books helps the reader understand all the interactions in this book.

Maddrey has done a good job on the pacing in this book. Once the two main characters get past the (somewhat drawn out) stage of figuring out they like each other, you know there are going to be other obstacles to their relationship. Maddrey has come up with some good ones for them to work through and mature in the midst of. I’m glad there’s more books to come in which I can find out how things continue to develop in Cody and Megan’s lives.
Profile Image for Wendy.
26 reviews
December 23, 2025
The Billionaire’s Secret Crush was a fun, light read and another enjoyable addition to this series. I’ve really liked following this group of friends who became billionaires and continue to do life together. Their close friendships, encouragement of one another, and shared walks with the Lord are such a meaningful part of the story.

Each book focuses on one member of the group, but you get to know all the characters more deeply as the series goes on, which makes it even more enjoyable to read them in order. This story centers on Cody and the long-time crush he’s had on his best friend’s sister. Watching their relationship unfold was sweet and heartwarming, and I loved seeing how naturally they came together.

Overall, this was a charming, easy read with faith, friendship, and romance woven throughout. I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
1,178 reviews6 followers
September 18, 2022
Megan and Cody have been friends for years. After all, Cody is part of her brother's friend group, and all of the guys see Megan as their little sister. All except Cody, who has had a crush on her for as long as he's known her. Megan's had a crush on him, too, but neither knew. Now, Cody asks Megan to help him with a task for his job. Will this help them to come together, or will it make them back off, especially when Cody hits troubled waters with his dad. Love the way that both Megan and Cody rely on God, and even though Megan questions a few things, she still clings to what God wants her to do.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
Profile Image for Renate Deutsche Oma.
1,410 reviews
October 4, 2022
The Billionaire Next Door series is not about the money, but more about common problems in a messy world. While I am usually not fond of first person narratives or billionaire romances, Elizabeth Maddrey had me hooked with the opening book The Billionaire's Nanny. The format with alternating perspectives works - giving the reader insight in each characters perspective. The Billionaire's Secret Crush is a stand alone, but includes nice foreshadowing for avid fans, who wish to read the rest of the series. Elizabeth Maddrey will have you reading from start to finish. Relatable characters, twist and turn plot, ending with a believable conclusion.
4,566 reviews38 followers
October 5, 2022
The Billionaire's Secret Crush is a clean, Christian, heartwarming, inspirational romance. Ms. Maddrey always manages to capture my interest with her relatable characters and mesmerizing stories. This billionaire series is not about money. These billionaires are just a regular group of guys who got lucky and are not flashing their money around. Megan and Cody have issues they have to work through to get to an HEA. I love that when the going gets tough someone always asks "Did you pray about it?" But these are wonderful human interest stories that are not at all preachy.
Profile Image for Gretchen Louise.
445 reviews162 followers
October 23, 2022
When a billionaire and a bookstore owner have been best of friends since long before he was a billionaire, but neither wants to "ruin" the friendship, it makes for an interesting storyline. And Elizabeth Maddrey never disappoints! I love how she has taken the billionaire concept and made the characters feel like real people you'd want to be friends with.

And if you love bookstore tales, you'll appreciate how much of this series takes place in a bookstore. But this book in particular has such a fun focus on supporting Indie authors in local bookstores!
1,146 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2022
"The Billionaire's Secret Crush" was a delightful read. Its spiritual-based 4.5-star plot was filled with Christian values, romance, and a tad of tension. Moreover, the protagonists, Cody and Megan, were ideally suited for each other and oozed chemistry. I loved the vivid descriptions the author used. They helped to create a lively tone. Overall, I really liked the narrative.
I received a copy for free. I am voluntarily giving my honest review.
154 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2022
Billionaire Boyfriend

Once again Elizabeth Maddrey hits one out of the ballpark with her Billionaire books. Cody steps up to the plate at work and turns to Megan for a little pinch hitting help.

Even though her brother and his friends are billionaires, Megan insists on being self-sufficient and not allowing them to help her (maybe to the extreme).

As always, a great read that allowed me a chance to relax and unwind.
2,277 reviews12 followers
October 7, 2022
The Billionaire’s Secret Crush

This is an enjoyable addition to the Billionaire Next Door series. Cody and Megan have been friends for a long time and Megan has had a crush on Cody for the same amount of time. Cody only thought of her as his best friends little sister for a lot of time. After discovering they have mutual feelings the two begin to date secretly. What will happen when the rest of the gang learns the truth?
Profile Image for Samantha Ball.
Author 6 books19 followers
October 16, 2022
A great series

Loved this book. It's fun when a series continues and you get to catchup with characters from previous books. (Scott and Whitney, Austin and Kayla.)
I knew Cody and Megan were mean to be together after meeting them in book one, so I was excited to read their love story. As always, I wasn't disappointed. I couldn't put the book down!

Looking forward to Noah and Jenna's story next.
Profile Image for Kim.
782 reviews
May 5, 2024
More like 3 ⭐️ but here’s why it’s higher—it models a healthy, biblical relationship. They pray together, have conversations about boundaries because they do feel tempted. She has conversations with her friends about not judging them if they are sleeping together and to check how they’re speaking to be sensitive (because MC is not a virgin). Even with the billionaire status they don’t spend frivolously or center their lives around money. They “lived without it and could live without it again.”
1,402 reviews8 followers
September 29, 2022
In this book you read about two people who have been hiding their feelings about each other for years. The characters in this book are like a big family. The author will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next with these special people. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review.
182 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2022
A wonderful, clean romance! Elizabeth Maddrey challenges me to be a better Christian through her wonderful characters and their examples of trying to live their lives for Christ. She has a special message in this book, "if God doesn't remember our forgiven sins, then we should not constantly bring it up either." Read on to meet another wonderful couple finding their soul mate.
79 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2022
Awesome book.

I really liked reading all three books. I enjoy reading books that don't go give vivid detail about the sexual exploits of the characters. I enjoy a good romance book that brings the characters front and center. I like the humour of the characters. The humour makes the books so much better it gives the characters depth and make them real.
570 reviews3 followers
February 14, 2024
This was a fun story about love.

The characters in this book have known for years but over time the friendship developed into love but neither one seem to know how to the other their true feelings. It made the storyline a little complicated. It took a while to figure out they were both feeling love for each other. Of course something came up that shake their feelings.
Profile Image for Rhiannon Hinton.
440 reviews8 followers
February 15, 2024
I loved it!

What you'll find inside:
*Christian characters
*Found family, friend group saga
*Each book ends in a relationship conclusion but the series shows a continuation of each couple.
*Best friend's sister


What I loved:
*The narrators were both great
*The friend group encouraged each other to be better Christians
*Poker nights and girls night at the bookstore
99 reviews
June 20, 2024
Sweet HEA series

I truly enjoy a book series where h you get to know the main and supporting characters. This is book three, I highly encourage you to read them all; it's okay to read out of order, each story is a stand alone book. This is a clean HEA that deals with temptation in an appropriate manner!
269 reviews
October 4, 2022
The Billionaire’s Secret Crush was an awesome read! I love a good brother best friend book, and this is one of the best I’ve read. This series has kept me up much too late at nights and it’s been well worth it!
Profile Image for Debbie Lynn.
79 reviews
July 29, 2024
cliffhanger

Wow! Character switch right at the end.
How about at least finish with the main characters first and the way it ended is not it. Tells me the author is more about selling books than completing one.
4 reviews
May 20, 2025
Love the series

I love easy to read romances and this series is such a nice change. They are wholesome clean romance stories that touch on Christian values without making you feel like that's all the story is about
Profile Image for Love.
1,747 reviews5 followers
November 5, 2022
Fun Romance

This is an amazing little love story with loveable and endearing characters that will definitely make you smile as you continue this wonderful series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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