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The Bonds of Matri-money
Renata Moon and Connell MacAllister lost more than a frivolous lawsuit in a Manhattan courtroom. Paying the settlement will probably force them to close their non-profit business. That is, until they learn about a new survivalist game show set in exotic Bali. Grand one million dollars. The catch? The show is for newlyweds. Nothing that a quickie marriage--in name only--can't fix. But Renata and Connell didn't anticipate they'd be linked by handcuffs the entire time they're competing! Soon, spending days and nights with only a few inches of chain between them begins to stir feelings they never knew existed. Before the competition ends, Renata and Connell will be forced to decide which means more to love or money.
215 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2006
About the author
Gina Ardito
48 books441 followersGina Ardito is the award-winning author of more than twenty romances in contemporary, historical, and paranormal sub-genres. In 2012, she launched her freelance editing business, Excellence in Editing, and now has a stable of award-winning clients, as well.
She’s hosted workshops around the world for writing conferences, author organization chapter meetings, and library events. To her everlasting shame, despite all her accomplishments, she’ll never be more famous than her dog, who starred in commercials for 2015’s Puppy Bowl.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GinaArditoAu...
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ginaardito/
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
She’s hosted workshops around the world for writing conferences, author organization chapter meetings, and library events. To her everlasting shame, despite all her accomplishments, she’ll never be more famous than her dog, who starred in commercials for 2015’s Puppy Bowl.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GinaArditoAu...
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ginaardito/
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 18, 2013
A great book! It was witty, romantic and kept me hooked.
September 17, 2025
If you’re looking for a romance that mixes betrayal, banter, and just the right amount of outrageous fun, this book delivers. Renata Moon is the kind of heroine you can’t help but root for, smart, determined, and a little bit reckless (in the best way). After her low-life ex drains their bank accounts to fund his shiny new marriage, she teams up with Connell MacAllister, the ex’s former business partner who’s just as burned. Their solution? Pretend to be newlyweds on a survival reality show in Bali, with a million-dollar prize dangling in front of them.
What I loved most is the mix of humor and tension, between the fake marriage setup, the tropical survival challenges, and the undeniable chemistry, there’s never a dull moment. And the handcuffs? Let’s just say they add an unexpected twist that made me laugh out loud.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was absolutely fantastic, capturing the humor, the heat, and the heart of the story perfectly. It made the whole experience even more entertaining.
This isn’t just a romance, it’s a witty, escapist adventure with plenty of heart. If you like enemies-to-lovers vibes, reality-show drama, and a tropical setting that practically feels like a vacation, you’ll have a blast with this story.
What I loved most is the mix of humor and tension, between the fake marriage setup, the tropical survival challenges, and the undeniable chemistry, there’s never a dull moment. And the handcuffs? Let’s just say they add an unexpected twist that made me laugh out loud.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was absolutely fantastic, capturing the humor, the heat, and the heart of the story perfectly. It made the whole experience even more entertaining.
This isn’t just a romance, it’s a witty, escapist adventure with plenty of heart. If you like enemies-to-lovers vibes, reality-show drama, and a tropical setting that practically feels like a vacation, you’ll have a blast with this story.
March 17, 2022
Renata and Connell join forces after her husband/his business partner takes off with all their money, and a new girlfriend, to start a new life. These two decide to get some much needed money by being on a reality couples show and this is where the story takes some wild twists and surprises, along with some steam emerging. The characters are terrific, with determination and great banter. The storyline is well written, getting you to both laugh and cringe when situations go awry. Best laid plans tend to go wonky. Loved their chemistry and protectiveness as they forge ahead. It all comes together in a great ending and plenty of team work.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2022
When her boyfriend/his partner wipes them out financially, they get married and complete on a reality show for a million dollars. The supporting characters add so much depth to the story; I especially love Lillian, and almost peed my pants when Buttons (her cockatiel) shows up wearing a veil. Renata and Connell are on a slow burn, and his revelation about his feelings for her was a real eye-opener. There's a reason I don't watch reality TV, but I loved reading this story, probably my favorite from the author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2022
Renata and Connell's was a marriage of nesseccity, hoping to take part in a competition to win a million dollars. Money they needed after her boyfriend who was also his business partner absconded with their savings. But the competition was more than they bargained for and being together in such close proximity brought another level of intimacy the did not expect. I loved their story and the author's writing style.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2022
I've read several books written by Gina Ardito; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the third book in the Setquott Beach Romance Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Renata & Connell; after her ex and his business partner stole all the money they had in their accounts before he eloped. They team up together posing as newlyweds to compete in a contest in Bali to win a million dollars.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the third book in the Setquott Beach Romance Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Renata & Connell; after her ex and his business partner stole all the money they had in their accounts before he eloped. They team up together posing as newlyweds to compete in a contest in Bali to win a million dollars.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2022
Renata is duped by her boyfriend, Steve, who has also duped his business partner, Connell. Steve has stolen everything from both of them so they join forces to go on a game show to try to get the money back.it is great fun knowing one is already in love with the other and seeing the other realize they are also in love. They learn to trust other each and accept the past to move forward.it was a fun, easy read with a great story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2022
The third book in the Setquott Beach Romance series was a fun story to read. Renata Moon and Connell MacAllister decide to enter a newlywed contestant show in Bali They have both been hurt money wise by the same man. I enjoyed seeing this story with all its ups and downs come together. The surpprise at the end was something I did not see coming. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2022
“The Newlywed Game” meets “Survivor” ...
... with handcuffs!
You'll have plenty of moments in this story where you'll laugh out loud and still feel all the feels of a good romance. The characters are just as enjoyable and entertaining as the story line itself. This book is part of a series but it can be read as a stand alone without you feeling lost. A great escape from everyday life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
... with handcuffs!
You'll have plenty of moments in this story where you'll laugh out loud and still feel all the feels of a good romance. The characters are just as enjoyable and entertaining as the story line itself. This book is part of a series but it can be read as a stand alone without you feeling lost. A great escape from everyday life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 24, 2022
So much more …. (Audiobook review).
I enjoyed this book immensely. It is so much more than a run-of-the-mill romance. The plot is as original as it is funny (I loved Renata’s snarky comments). The characters are lifelike (Connell is sooo swoonworthy) and there is just enough suspense. To top it off the book is perfectly narrated by AJ Ferraro.
It is such a great book, definitely a must listen!
I enjoyed this book immensely. It is so much more than a run-of-the-mill romance. The plot is as original as it is funny (I loved Renata’s snarky comments). The characters are lifelike (Connell is sooo swoonworthy) and there is just enough suspense. To top it off the book is perfectly narrated by AJ Ferraro.
It is such a great book, definitely a must listen!
June 8, 2017
I picked this book up on a whim based solely on its title. I was pulled into the story immediately from the frivolous lawsuit all the way to the end. Lillian's crazy ideas and antics made me laugh. This book is just fun to read and I loved every second of it. I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
February 18, 2022
A Fake-marriage romance mixed with a survivor like reality show? Sign me up!
So this book is ridiculous as the premise might suggest, but it's a fun quick read. The writing wasn't amazing and the characters needed a good smacking upside the head to *communicate* but we're actually pretty fleshed out considering its only 215 pages long.
So this book is ridiculous as the premise might suggest, but it's a fun quick read. The writing wasn't amazing and the characters needed a good smacking upside the head to *communicate* but we're actually pretty fleshed out considering its only 215 pages long.
February 26, 2022
Ah!the problems of getting handcuffed Loved the story line and the growing romance attraction and the path to their happily ever after.Loved all the funny and romantic scenes as well as the drama the characters went through.Nice read .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 2, 2022
A witty, pleasant romance 4*
Renata and Connell's marriage of necessity is a very enjoyable, well-written tale of two people who are left holding the bag after a scoundrel absconds with all their money. A witty romance that I can happily recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Renata and Connell's marriage of necessity is a very enjoyable, well-written tale of two people who are left holding the bag after a scoundrel absconds with all their money. A witty romance that I can happily recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2022
This is a fun rom com with Renata and Connell pairing up to recoup some money after her ex (and his business partner) stole all their money. I loved the storyline and the characters. It's well written,moves fluidly with descriptive scenes and is a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
February 27, 2022
I had so much fun reading Renata and Connell’s story. I wonderful combination of humor and all the feels! Amazing characters that I felt am instant connection to!!! Highly recommended!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2022
What a fun read! This is a great story. I loved the storyline about a reality game show and the characters were so lovable. Loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2022
I really enjoy the stranded on and island romance. This book had really good forced proximity. It was a fun read. Nice chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2022
Not taking it lying down.
When Renata is cleaned out by her cheating ex, she strikes a deal with his business partner (who also got cleaned out) Connell. So, it’s a reality competition show. With handcuffs.
When Renata is cleaned out by her cheating ex, she strikes a deal with his business partner (who also got cleaned out) Connell. So, it’s a reality competition show. With handcuffs.
July 21, 2022
Both Renata and Connell are duped by her boyfriend. Connell was his business partner. Steve has stolen everything from both. Renata and Connell join forces and decide to enter a newlywed contestant show in Bali.
Amazing characters, a fun romance LOVED
Amazing characters, a fun romance LOVED
July 29, 2022
This was my first Gina Ardito's book. Renata and Connell's story is original and funny. I liked the slow burn romance and the twists and turns. AJ Ferraro did an amazing job with the narration. I enjoyed it.
May 25, 2018
It was fine
Once I got past the completely unlikely result of the court case at the beginning, it was a cute but predictable story. The ending seemed a little rushed.
Once I got past the completely unlikely result of the court case at the beginning, it was a cute but predictable story. The ending seemed a little rushed.
June 22, 2018
So cute!!!
I absolutely loved this book! It was written with such a great sense of humor, but was also romantic and dramatic! I wish it didn’t end!
I absolutely loved this book! It was written with such a great sense of humor, but was also romantic and dramatic! I wish it didn’t end!
January 23, 2020
Book was well written with lots of charm, wit & humor!
Enjoyed it.
Enjoyed it.
June 2, 2013
This was such a fun book. It far exceeded my expectations. It was a feel-good book, but the conflict kept me turning pages. This was a take-off on all the reality shows and the plot just kept getting crazier and crazier. The heroine roped her business partner into getting married for the chance to enter a reality show with a huge cash prize she needs to keep her loved one in a nursing home. She is pretty desperate. But she doesn't know the hero has had a long-time crush on her. Bringing them close together, under primitive conditions in a steamy jungle setting, well, sparks are gonna fly.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
August 1, 2016
Game show with a twist.
Renata and Connell get married to take part in a reality show in hopes of winning a million dollars. Something like Survivor, but with less class, they compete while handcuffed. It was this twist that drew me to read the story and I was not disappointed. Gina Ardito does great job of engaging storytelling. I enjoy the romance without explicit sexual scenes. She is my new favorite author.
Renata and Connell get married to take part in a reality show in hopes of winning a million dollars. Something like Survivor, but with less class, they compete while handcuffed. It was this twist that drew me to read the story and I was not disappointed. Gina Ardito does great job of engaging storytelling. I enjoy the romance without explicit sexual scenes. She is my new favorite author.
August 16, 2014
3.5/5.0
The Bonds of Matri-money is a fun twist on the reality show Survivor.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
The Bonds of Matri-money is a fun twist on the reality show Survivor.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 10, 2015
This was a novel that was a "survivor's" tv reality show. I liked the interaction of the characters but I wanted something to happen to the jerk of a host for the show. I know the romances end well but I wanted him to get his. Sorry if this spoils anyones read of the book.
April 15, 2016
Sweet, fabulous read
Ms Ardito has yet again won me over with her stellar characters, humorous plot, and real life issues. Renata and Connell are definitely new book friends I'll remember for a long, long time.
Ms Ardito has yet again won me over with her stellar characters, humorous plot, and real life issues. Renata and Connell are definitely new book friends I'll remember for a long, long time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews