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California Suits #1
Hotel King
He's her grumpy boss. She's his nemesis. How thin is the line between love/hate? Entrepreneur Ryan Michaels never loses. Well, except that time, a few years ago when he lost a promotion to spoiled rich girl, Charlotte "Charlie" Ray. Now he's forced to hire his nemesis to secure funding to develop a string of luxury boutique hotels. Not only does she not fit his corporate vision, but she's too damn attractive for her own good. And his. Working as VP of Sales and Marketing for a luxury hotel is Charlie's dream job. Too bad her boss is Ryan Michaels, the same pompous stick-in-the-mud that she remembers. If he tells her that this project is his legacy one more time, she might scream. Or maybe kissing him will get him to shut up? Because that's the other thing. The sizzling attraction between Ryan and Charlie is impossible to ignore. But everyone knows not to mix business and pleasure. Don't they?
236 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2021
805 people are currently reading
1208 people want to read
About the author
Claire Marti
27 books738 followersClaire Marti is an award winning and USA Today Bestselling author of swoonworthy Contemporary Romance novels set in Southern California, including the Pacific Vista Ranch series and the California Suits series. She lives in San Diego with her husband, silly dog, and two clever cats.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
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August 19, 2021Very well written, nice yet familiar plot, with strong main characters and a slow pace. Couldn’t keep my interest, as much as I read, dnf @ 42%.
January 18, 2022
*ALC received from Audibly Addicted in exchange for my honest review. *
An enemies to lovers beach read with all the feels, Hotel King will have you longing for a beach & a delicious California guy to fight with.
The first and only time Ryan Michaels lost at something or in this case to someone he never let it go. Now, years later he is still holding on that grudge and is about to come face to face with the woman he lost to. Charlie Ray is nothing like the woman he remembered from all those years ago. He always remembers her being objectively beautiful but now there is a spark there he is feeling for her that was never there before. Ryan just hopes that he can keep his feelings to himself before their already complicated working relationship gets even worse.
Charlie Ray has worked her whole life for this position, and she is not going to let some guy with a grudge stop her from achieving her goals. The chip on Ryan's shoulder seems even bigger now than it did all those years ago but there is also something else there too. It's as if he isn't being completely honest with her and when he starts to let his guard down it goes right back up. Charlie doesn't care how hot this man is he will not get under skin. Until one night he does exactly that and they tumble into bed leading to an even bigger complication Charlie never saw coming.
Vanessa Edwin & Tim Paige did such a wonderful job with narration. I've listened to several Vanessa Edwin narrations, and she always takes me back with her male voice because it is surprisingly sexy. This was my first full narration by Tim Paige and the way he did Ryan's voice was very calculated almost like I expected Ryan himself to be.
Hotel King was just an all-around feel-good romance that will have you longing for summer during these blistering cold months.
An enemies to lovers beach read with all the feels, Hotel King will have you longing for a beach & a delicious California guy to fight with.
The first and only time Ryan Michaels lost at something or in this case to someone he never let it go. Now, years later he is still holding on that grudge and is about to come face to face with the woman he lost to. Charlie Ray is nothing like the woman he remembered from all those years ago. He always remembers her being objectively beautiful but now there is a spark there he is feeling for her that was never there before. Ryan just hopes that he can keep his feelings to himself before their already complicated working relationship gets even worse.
Charlie Ray has worked her whole life for this position, and she is not going to let some guy with a grudge stop her from achieving her goals. The chip on Ryan's shoulder seems even bigger now than it did all those years ago but there is also something else there too. It's as if he isn't being completely honest with her and when he starts to let his guard down it goes right back up. Charlie doesn't care how hot this man is he will not get under skin. Until one night he does exactly that and they tumble into bed leading to an even bigger complication Charlie never saw coming.
Vanessa Edwin & Tim Paige did such a wonderful job with narration. I've listened to several Vanessa Edwin narrations, and she always takes me back with her male voice because it is surprisingly sexy. This was my first full narration by Tim Paige and the way he did Ryan's voice was very calculated almost like I expected Ryan himself to be.
Hotel King was just an all-around feel-good romance that will have you longing for summer during these blistering cold months.
January 20, 2022
(audiobook) It was okay, but I felt like I had read it a thousand times before, down to some images and sentences.
There was at least one original trait in each main characters. Ryan, while being a hotel mogul, came from a blue collar family and was hard working–not your regular billionaire heir. As for Charlie, she was exactly from the other side of the tract, but would rather forget it and she, too, worked hard. But I hardly learned anything else about them.
The will-they-won’t-they waltz got tiring pretty fast, and once they do the deed, I didn’t see much love there. I blinked and they were promising forever to each other.
Their professional rivalry was interesting and kind of thrilling. I’d have enjoyed it more if they didn’t seem to choose opposite opinions just to spite each other. Especially never bending Ryan–that is, until he decides to love Charlie enough to think she has the best ideas ever.
The interactions with other characters were very entertaining though. There was banter, but also conversations about deeper subjects. It made for a good introduction to the series, as I suppose all the guys here will get their own love story.
The narration made the book better. Both narrators were excellent, and the emotions were there. I’m pretty sure I would have less enjoyed this book if I had read it.
Quickie
- Series: California suits #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #office romance #enemies to lovers #secrets
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Charlotte Ray & Ryan Michaels
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved the professional respect they had for each other
- – didn’t see the switch from lust to love
There was at least one original trait in each main characters. Ryan, while being a hotel mogul, came from a blue collar family and was hard working–not your regular billionaire heir. As for Charlie, she was exactly from the other side of the tract, but would rather forget it and she, too, worked hard. But I hardly learned anything else about them.
The will-they-won’t-they waltz got tiring pretty fast, and once they do the deed, I didn’t see much love there. I blinked and they were promising forever to each other.
Their professional rivalry was interesting and kind of thrilling. I’d have enjoyed it more if they didn’t seem to choose opposite opinions just to spite each other. Especially never bending Ryan–that is, until he decides to love Charlie enough to think she has the best ideas ever.
The interactions with other characters were very entertaining though. There was banter, but also conversations about deeper subjects. It made for a good introduction to the series, as I suppose all the guys here will get their own love story.
The narration made the book better. Both narrators were excellent, and the emotions were there. I’m pretty sure I would have less enjoyed this book if I had read it.
Quickie
- Series: California suits #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #office romance #enemies to lovers #secrets
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Charlotte Ray & Ryan Michaels
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved the professional respect they had for each other
- – didn’t see the switch from lust to love
August 5, 2021
Hotel King is a battle of hearts, minds and egos. Ryan and Charlie have all the right moves to stir up emotions. He's an alpha with his eye on the prize. She's a fighter that does not back down. Caught in a battle of wills, sparks fly, hearts break and romance takes hold. Marti speaks the language of love with a melodic voice and a graceful heart.
August 4, 2021
I love Claire Marti's Pacific Vista Ranch series, and was eagerly anticipating this spin-off series. Let me just say, I was not disappointed! Hotel King is a great start to the California Suits series, wherein a group of old Army buddies start a chain of luxury, boutique hotels and find love along the way. This is an enemies-to-lovers romance, which is not usually my favorite trope, but Hotel King changed my mind. Professional rivals Ryan and Charlie's romance pulled me in from the start, and I loved seeing how they overcame their initial obstacles to love, right up until their HEA at the end. The La Jolla, California setting is gorgeously described, and I felt as though I'd taken a much-needed vacation to that coastal town through the pages of this book.
Marti is one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait to see where this series goes next!
Marti is one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait to see where this series goes next!
August 9, 2021
Enemies in the hotel business can bring a booming hotel to their knees. Charlie Ray has been offered her dream job but it’s working for Ryan Michaels, the last man she thought would ever offer her a job. Ryan would rather hire anyone other than Charlie, but his backing depends on her having the VP position. Charlie beat Ryan out of a much-coveted promotion and Ryan isn’t used to losing. Charlie walks in and Ryan can barely resist the urges he feels for her. Will Charlie be able to help the Hotel Kings or will she be their downfall.
I have not read a book by Claire Marti before but Hotel King, the first book in the California Suites series is wonderful. This is a great enemies-to-lovers office romance, and it is sizzling hot. There are secrets and hidden betrayal and lots of combustible tension. I am looking forward to the next book Wine Country King. Each one of the Kings will have their own story and it seems these men might know a thing about running hotels, but they’ve got a lot to learn about how to get the girl. 5-stars for Hotel King by Claire Marti
I have not read a book by Claire Marti before but Hotel King, the first book in the California Suites series is wonderful. This is a great enemies-to-lovers office romance, and it is sizzling hot. There are secrets and hidden betrayal and lots of combustible tension. I am looking forward to the next book Wine Country King. Each one of the Kings will have their own story and it seems these men might know a thing about running hotels, but they’ve got a lot to learn about how to get the girl. 5-stars for Hotel King by Claire Marti
August 9, 2021
I truly enjoyed each of Claire Marti’s Pacific Vista Ranch Series. Hotel King is a great start to the spin off series of California Suits.
Charlotte and Ryan were rivals from a previous work situation. When Ryan starts his own luxury hotel chain, he is forced by a mysterious investor to hire Charlotte as VP. Sparks erupt from the very beginning. Each has their own way of doing things and compromise is not in either’s vocabulary. The attraction for each other sizzles, adding another layer to their difficult relationship. I enjoyed the way they overcome their obstacles professionally and personally. No spoilers here.
The book’s setting La Jolla, California is a fantastic setting and well described by the author so you feel like you are right there with the characters. I could almost feel the ocean breeze. LOL If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers set in a gorgeous coastal town, this is the book for you. I highly recommend Hotel King. I’m interested to see where this series takes us next.
Charlotte and Ryan were rivals from a previous work situation. When Ryan starts his own luxury hotel chain, he is forced by a mysterious investor to hire Charlotte as VP. Sparks erupt from the very beginning. Each has their own way of doing things and compromise is not in either’s vocabulary. The attraction for each other sizzles, adding another layer to their difficult relationship. I enjoyed the way they overcome their obstacles professionally and personally. No spoilers here.
The book’s setting La Jolla, California is a fantastic setting and well described by the author so you feel like you are right there with the characters. I could almost feel the ocean breeze. LOL If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers set in a gorgeous coastal town, this is the book for you. I highly recommend Hotel King. I’m interested to see where this series takes us next.
August 9, 2021
I loved, loved, loved Ryan and Charlie’s story. Ryan is an alpha with a heart of gold and Charlie is a fiery strong woman with a few secrets. When they worked together a few years back, Charlie beat Ryan for a promotion—the first time he ever lost. Now she’s working for him and sparks fly. Witty banter and dialogue, a gorgeous setting in La Jolla, California, and an entertaining cast of characters round out this slow burn romance. Oh, the attraction is intense so when they finally kiss, it is all the sweeter. I also loved revisiting the Pacific Vista Ranch characters—Ryan is one of the stepbrothers from the series. I couldn’t put this book down, but missing sleep was worth the happy ending. I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
September 29, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! So much so, I couldn't put it down.
There was something about both Charlie and Ryan that I couldn't get enough of. It's definitely got an enemies-to-lovers feel, opposites attract, slow-burn feels to it. These two had amazing chemistry and I couldn't wait for them to act upon it.
I didn't want their story to end. I'm hoping we still get a good bit of them in future books as well!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There was something about both Charlie and Ryan that I couldn't get enough of. It's definitely got an enemies-to-lovers feel, opposites attract, slow-burn feels to it. These two had amazing chemistry and I couldn't wait for them to act upon it.
I didn't want their story to end. I'm hoping we still get a good bit of them in future books as well!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 22, 2023
Omfg 🤬 57% and there’s been one kiss. Constant droning on about mundane crap, going on & on about the town, the shops, the food… I don’t freaking care. The kittens & the details of their care are too much for me. Everything but interactions between the H & h are dragged out. I’m skimming & there’s so much worthless crap that should’ve been left out. I don’t feel the chemistry between Charlie & Ryan, the whole thing is just boring.
August 13, 2021
Universal
Hotel King Ryan needs this investment into his hotel empire. Unfortunately, it comes with some requirements he's really not thrilled with, one of which is he hire his own personal nemesis, and not let her know he was forced to hire her. Charlie is the only woman he's ever lost anything to - a promotion - and to know he has to hire her? Yeah, not something this alpha wants. But, at least he'll be the one in charge, and she'll have to do as he says. Right...
Charlie is thrilled with her new job and new location. Yeah the job comes with the most know-it-all, egotistical boss, ever, but she can ignore that and just be free to do her job. Right? Wrong. Because she underestimated the chemistry and now they're both faced with something they can't allow, but can't seem to resist either.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite of all time romance tropes, and it's because of stories like this where the "enemies" part doesn't overwhelm the developing feelings, but instead highlights the insane, snappy chemistry the two rivals share. Charlie is one independent, sassy woman who takes no kinda bs off anyone, and Ryan is alpha to the core with a big, soft heart once he starts developing real feelings for his nemesis. Hotel King is witty, sexy as hell, and so entertaining - the best kind of enemies to lovers story.
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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August 10, 2021
I really love this story! Charlie is vibrant smart, sexy and self assured. You will be rooting for her if you love a a feisty heroine who knows her stuff. I love seeing women in positions of power. Then Ryan who is a total alpha but really cares and believes in his work and want his hotel to succeed. Their different approaches and opposing positions gives way to a passion that rips through the pages.
This is a great start to a series and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories.
This is a great start to a series and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories.
January 22, 2026
Ebook. Purchased. Not bad but pretty boring. By that I mean it felt a little too formulaic and the dialogue was really bland. It could be any romance book, nothing really made it pop for me. YMMV.
November 6, 2021
Rating: 3.5/5.0
In this dual perspective hate to love romance, Ryan and Charlotte must work together to renovate the beautiful hotel, which ultimately earned the name Pacific Jewel Inn.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
In this dual perspective hate to love romance, Ryan and Charlotte must work together to renovate the beautiful hotel, which ultimately earned the name Pacific Jewel Inn.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
August 10, 2021
Feels 1
Steam 1
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This is the first book in California Suits series and it was alright. Ryan is starting his own high end hotel conglomerate with his close friends and has a very specific vision of what he wants. He is a hot alpha who is a hard worker with a heart of gold.
Charlie comes from a secretive background and is a superstar in her field. She ended up beating Ryan out for a huge promotion at a company they both worked for years ago. They literally hated each other. She keeps quiet about her parents, past and personal life and parents which irked me more than once. Evidentially her father was absent most of her life and a lot of her issues revolve around him. But she is proud of everything she has achieved on her own merit.
Due to a very odd situation, Ryan is "forced" to hire her as his second in command. I wanted to love these two trying to work together. I thought it would be cute and funny but the book never got there for me. It dragged at times and I skimmed more than once. The storyline had so much potential but I felt there was too much fluff and not enough action. The fact that Charlie's background is brought up again and again but seemed secretive bothered me. I wanted to finally know all the details and have Ryan find out. I didn't understand why it played such a big factor and took away from a great plot to me. The storyline could have been amazing but lacked in execution. Perhaps you will find it perfect for you.
Steam 1
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This is the first book in California Suits series and it was alright. Ryan is starting his own high end hotel conglomerate with his close friends and has a very specific vision of what he wants. He is a hot alpha who is a hard worker with a heart of gold.
Charlie comes from a secretive background and is a superstar in her field. She ended up beating Ryan out for a huge promotion at a company they both worked for years ago. They literally hated each other. She keeps quiet about her parents, past and personal life and parents which irked me more than once. Evidentially her father was absent most of her life and a lot of her issues revolve around him. But she is proud of everything she has achieved on her own merit.
Due to a very odd situation, Ryan is "forced" to hire her as his second in command. I wanted to love these two trying to work together. I thought it would be cute and funny but the book never got there for me. It dragged at times and I skimmed more than once. The storyline had so much potential but I felt there was too much fluff and not enough action. The fact that Charlie's background is brought up again and again but seemed secretive bothered me. I wanted to finally know all the details and have Ryan find out. I didn't understand why it played such a big factor and took away from a great plot to me. The storyline could have been amazing but lacked in execution. Perhaps you will find it perfect for you.
December 28, 2024
2 ⭐️⭐️
I just didn’t Connect with the book as much as I wanted it but it was entertaining.
I didn’t feel connection with Charlie or Ryan and their story. It seemed too rush for my liking.
The third act break up was predictable and they solved it in like a chapter
Besides, it was in third person which I’m not used to and confused me
I just didn’t Connect with the book as much as I wanted it but it was entertaining.
I didn’t feel connection with Charlie or Ryan and their story. It seemed too rush for my liking.
The third act break up was predictable and they solved it in like a chapter
Besides, it was in third person which I’m not used to and confused me
September 17, 2021
This is the first book of this author for me, but it’s definitely not going to be the last one. I absolutely loved this story!!
Entrepreneur Ryan Michaels never loses. Well, except that time, a few years ago when he lost a promotion to spoiled rich girl, Charlotte “Charlie” Ray. Now he’s forced to hire his nemesis to secure funding to develop a string of luxury boutique hotels. Not only does she not fit his corporate vision, but she’s too damn attractive for her own good. And his.
Working as VP of Sales and Marketing for a luxury hotel is Charlie’s dream job. Too bad her boss is Ryan Michaels, the same pompous stick-in-the-mud that she remembers. If he tells her that this project is his legacy one more time, she might scream. Or maybe kissing him will get him to shut up?
Because that’s the other thing. The sizzling attraction between Ryan and Charlie is impossible to ignore. But everyone knows not to mix business and pleasure. Don’t they?
I was really funny to see them try to stay apart (lucky for us, not that much) but the attraction was just too strong. They are AMAZING together. The chemistry is of the chart. I couldn´t stop reading most of the time.
I highly recommend this book. There are great sex scenes, the interactions between Ryan and Charlie are funny and sexy. There are great side characters (I need every single one of them to have their story) and two sweet kittens.
If you like smoking hot romance with a bit of emotional trip too, this is your cup of tea.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Entrepreneur Ryan Michaels never loses. Well, except that time, a few years ago when he lost a promotion to spoiled rich girl, Charlotte “Charlie” Ray. Now he’s forced to hire his nemesis to secure funding to develop a string of luxury boutique hotels. Not only does she not fit his corporate vision, but she’s too damn attractive for her own good. And his.
Working as VP of Sales and Marketing for a luxury hotel is Charlie’s dream job. Too bad her boss is Ryan Michaels, the same pompous stick-in-the-mud that she remembers. If he tells her that this project is his legacy one more time, she might scream. Or maybe kissing him will get him to shut up?
Because that’s the other thing. The sizzling attraction between Ryan and Charlie is impossible to ignore. But everyone knows not to mix business and pleasure. Don’t they?
I was really funny to see them try to stay apart (lucky for us, not that much) but the attraction was just too strong. They are AMAZING together. The chemistry is of the chart. I couldn´t stop reading most of the time.
I highly recommend this book. There are great sex scenes, the interactions between Ryan and Charlie are funny and sexy. There are great side characters (I need every single one of them to have their story) and two sweet kittens.
If you like smoking hot romance with a bit of emotional trip too, this is your cup of tea.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 14, 2022
This was my first time reading a book from this author and I really enjoyed Charlie and Ryan’s story. Their backstory and what they know and don’t know now had me rooting for them. I loved the side characters too and the premise of the series. I can’t wait to read more!
January 20, 2022
Audiobook review- Hotel King is my first by Claire Marti, and it will not be my last. Enemies to Lovers romance is one of my most favourite tropes and this one did not disappoint. Charlie and Ryan’s story got off to a pretty rocky start, when years before becoming a successful hotel entrepreneur Ryan was passed over for a promotion that was in turn given to Charlie. Although reluctantly he has no choice but to accept it and move on. Years later, his most prominent financial backer turns out to be Charlie’s Dad and he is requesting that he hire Charlie as a condition of his continued financial support. Although he doesn’t want to, Ryan feels backed into a corner he has no choice but to agree. Even though a few years have now passed you would never know it, because the hate to love vibes were strong between these two. The sexual tension and intense chemistry between them was off the charts. They often butt heads and Ryan was completely frustrating and unwilling to compromise but Charlie is the winner in my book. She was a force! Despite never really knowing what version of Ryan she was going to get she never hesitated to go toe to toe with him and stayed strong in her business ideas and choices. Not only is Charlie smart and intelligent, she is gorgeous, feisty and independent. She is successful in her career and has worked hard to get where she is. When they finally give into their feelings, things heat up in the bedroom, but how will they balance their personal and business life before everything implodes? Narration- I loved listening to the story narrated by two of my favorites, Tim Paige and Vanessa Edwin. Vanessa has a powerhouse of a voice, showcasing her character's confident, sassy side perfectly. Tim does a great job portraying the broodiness of his character. I also loved his passionate and romantic side in the intimate moments between Ryan and Charlie. Overall, this is a great book, and I look forward to more in this series to come.
January 22, 2022
Ryan and his friends have partnered together to create a boutique hotel. When one of their investors back out he manages to secure new financing on the condition that he hires the only woman who has bested him professionally in the past as his new VP and he can’t tell her why.
Charlie was flattered that Ryan considered her for the position as it was exactly what she was looking for. The only problem is that he refuses to let her do his job and every decision she makes needs to be approved by him. What started out as sparks of antagonism change to sparks of a different time but once all the secrets have been revealed will it destroy their personal and professional relationship?
The interactions between them are fiery as Charlie challenges Ryan unlike anyone else and it was fun watching them realize that they make a much better team than adversaries. The narrator’s performance brought out the personalities of the characters and what they were going through.
February 2, 2022
Awesome start to a great series! I loved this story! Ryan and Charlie were a fun enemies to lovers couple. I loved the setting of both the beautiful hotel they were renovating and La Jolla in general. I felt like I was somewhere I had never visited but it felt like home. I liked that this was essentially a second chance romance even though the initial relationship between Ryan and Charlie was as competitive co-workers and not a romantic relationship.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration by Tim Paige and Vanessa Edwin was top notch. Claire Marti crafts a wonderful, romantic, creative story. I can’t wait for the rest of the California Suits series.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration by Tim Paige and Vanessa Edwin was top notch. Claire Marti crafts a wonderful, romantic, creative story. I can’t wait for the rest of the California Suits series.
October 1, 2021
You never mix business with pleasure… said no one who’s ever been around Ryan Michaels. Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Ray works hard, harder than most to overcompensate for her family’s money. Teaming up with arrogant Ryan Michaels isn’t her dream, that is until he hires her for his new project, a line of boutique hotels. If she hears him utter the word legacy one more time, she’ll throw him in the Pacific. Kissing him? Well, that’s okay, if it’ll keep his viper words from leaving his mouth. Passion heats up between them and Charlie’s left wondering how this will look on her resume. She must end this before it overtakes them both. But she can’t seem to stop. One thing’s for sure: fireworks make for interesting bedmates but she’s not positive the same can be said for love.
Hotel King is a sizzling enemies to lovers romance I couldn’t put down. Claire Marti is the queen when it comes to enemies to lovers romance. She adds just the right amount of animosity, chemistry, sparring, and passion without it being over the top. The results are an unputdownable romance readers can’t get enough of. In Hotel King, Claire Marti transports the reader to beautiful La Jolla, California. The setting is lush and vibrant so that it feels like you’re on vacation while reading. The descriptive narration plunges the reader deep into the story and characters which makes for an intoxicating reading experience. The characters are as luxurious as the setting. Ryan and Charlie are perfectly matched, detailed through snappy dialogue. The plot moves at a terrific pace and I was so invested in the story, I didn’t want to leave. The chemistry is off the charts. The romance burns hot with plenty of emotion. I kept rooting for Ryan and Charlie to work things out. Claire Marti has penned another gem with Hotel King. I look forward to reading more in this series. If you love romance, pick up Hotel King. If enemies to lovers romance is your reading jam, you’ll thoroughly enjoy Hotel King. Whisk yourself away to sunny California with Hotel King. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are completely my own.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Hotel King is a sizzling enemies to lovers romance I couldn’t put down. Claire Marti is the queen when it comes to enemies to lovers romance. She adds just the right amount of animosity, chemistry, sparring, and passion without it being over the top. The results are an unputdownable romance readers can’t get enough of. In Hotel King, Claire Marti transports the reader to beautiful La Jolla, California. The setting is lush and vibrant so that it feels like you’re on vacation while reading. The descriptive narration plunges the reader deep into the story and characters which makes for an intoxicating reading experience. The characters are as luxurious as the setting. Ryan and Charlie are perfectly matched, detailed through snappy dialogue. The plot moves at a terrific pace and I was so invested in the story, I didn’t want to leave. The chemistry is off the charts. The romance burns hot with plenty of emotion. I kept rooting for Ryan and Charlie to work things out. Claire Marti has penned another gem with Hotel King. I look forward to reading more in this series. If you love romance, pick up Hotel King. If enemies to lovers romance is your reading jam, you’ll thoroughly enjoy Hotel King. Whisk yourself away to sunny California with Hotel King. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are completely my own.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
August 10, 2021
I'm amazed these two didn't kill each other
Ryan has a vision- He knows what he wants and he is bringing that dream to life with his brothers - both chosen and by blood
Most big dream requires big money and sometimes that requires you to compromise a bit - the old give and take
Enter Charlie - a headstrong, at times overly zealous new VP - She has earned her ego and Ryan's apprehension
I saw the twist coming from a mile away though knowing it in no way detracted from these two and the fireworks their tensions emitted.
You thought the rescues were feral?
This is the first in the series so a bit of the story was spent building the foundation for future episodes as well as overall character development
The relationship between Ryan and Charlie was a slow build with plenty of on-page chemistry that was quite tangible
There were some lulls as backstories were strengthened but nothing major
Loved the guys - the connections- the overall story
A lot of feels
Looking forward to the next in this series
Ryan has a vision- He knows what he wants and he is bringing that dream to life with his brothers - both chosen and by blood
Most big dream requires big money and sometimes that requires you to compromise a bit - the old give and take
Enter Charlie - a headstrong, at times overly zealous new VP - She has earned her ego and Ryan's apprehension
I saw the twist coming from a mile away though knowing it in no way detracted from these two and the fireworks their tensions emitted.
You thought the rescues were feral?
This is the first in the series so a bit of the story was spent building the foundation for future episodes as well as overall character development
The relationship between Ryan and Charlie was a slow build with plenty of on-page chemistry that was quite tangible
There were some lulls as backstories were strengthened but nothing major
Loved the guys - the connections- the overall story
A lot of feels
Looking forward to the next in this series
February 5, 2023
Only one word to describe this book. Boring.
They just kept going on and on about the hotel stuff and while yes I get that it is expected as this book is about making a hotel, but I wanted to see more interaction between the hero and heroine.
The book had so little scenes of them together, and I just could not see the chemistry. If I were to combine all of their scenes together, it would amount up to only about 5 to 7 chapters. The remaining is just boring hotel stuff. Banter and interaction was missing.
They just kept going on and on about the hotel stuff and while yes I get that it is expected as this book is about making a hotel, but I wanted to see more interaction between the hero and heroine.
The book had so little scenes of them together, and I just could not see the chemistry. If I were to combine all of their scenes together, it would amount up to only about 5 to 7 chapters. The remaining is just boring hotel stuff. Banter and interaction was missing.
Want to read
January 16, 2026🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/16/2023)! 🎁
August 13, 2021
This was my first book from Claire, but after learning in the back that this book takes place in the same world as another series of hers, I'm definitely going to have to get through that backlist! Anyway- Hotel King is a hotelier and Marketing/Sales enemies-to-lovers story and it is full of SO much tension and heat and sweet moments, you'll want to dive right in.
I was lucky enough to participate in a What The Trope live stream about opposites attract with Claire, and it came out there how obsessed I am with enemies to lovers, so she pitched this one to me, and I'm SO glad she did. I appreciated that this one wasn't your traditional billionaire sort of set up- Ryan and his friends had secured investments to set-up their luxury hotels, so while there was that air of sophistication and money, the "Everything must go my way because of how much money I have" was left behind. I also LOVED Charlie; she had her reasons for having trust and commitment issues, but I loved her strength and how she was a self-made woman. I thought their dynamic together was just awesome and a lot of fun, and made for combustion when things progressed to the bedroom. I also loved the mature reasonable conversation this one (eventually) featured- I'm here for communication in romances!
Also, not to bury the lede, but my favorite part of this one! Charlie rescues kittens and big strong-CEO Ryan absolutely melts for them. I loved these interactions (and how the kittens played an indirect role in steamy times) and I also loved seeing cats get their due in books- I feel like it always goes to the dogs and I was HERE. FOR. IT.
I received a free copy of this book so I could leave this review.
I was lucky enough to participate in a What The Trope live stream about opposites attract with Claire, and it came out there how obsessed I am with enemies to lovers, so she pitched this one to me, and I'm SO glad she did. I appreciated that this one wasn't your traditional billionaire sort of set up- Ryan and his friends had secured investments to set-up their luxury hotels, so while there was that air of sophistication and money, the "Everything must go my way because of how much money I have" was left behind. I also LOVED Charlie; she had her reasons for having trust and commitment issues, but I loved her strength and how she was a self-made woman. I thought their dynamic together was just awesome and a lot of fun, and made for combustion when things progressed to the bedroom. I also loved the mature reasonable conversation this one (eventually) featured- I'm here for communication in romances!
Also, not to bury the lede, but my favorite part of this one! Charlie rescues kittens and big strong-CEO Ryan absolutely melts for them. I loved these interactions (and how the kittens played an indirect role in steamy times) and I also loved seeing cats get their due in books- I feel like it always goes to the dogs and I was HERE. FOR. IT.
I received a free copy of this book so I could leave this review.
August 12, 2021
This is a brand new author for me but I really enjoyed it and want to read more about Grant, and Ryan and Austin's sisters. Its a story about romance at work with two people who worked together before but never felt attraction until now when Ryan becomes Charlie's boss and hires her. What she does not know is that he was forced to hire her, and she thinks he has hired her because previously she beat him out for a promotion.
This is book 1 in a series about friends and family who start a bunch of hotels in California. This story takes place in La Jolla, close to San Diego and it features the President of the company Ryan and his new VP, Charlie. She has all these great ideas and he has different ideas I guess you could say.
There is friction, flirts and adorable kittens. To be honest I loved this book and Ryan and Charlie were lots of fun but the kittens were really annoying and I didn't really care for all the details about them. I did love the story and the supporting cast as well. But the kittens were cute at first but I lost interest when they started to pee on Ryan, totally ick.
That said this was a really fun story and I enjoyed it. I did wish I could have seen more romance between Ryan and Charlie. It was a great story but I would have enjoyed seeing them date more and get to know each other outside of sexy nights. Ryan also has a secret and I felt when it came out the results were a bit tame.
I loved Angela and Chris in this story. They are Ryan's mom and step dad. I would love a story so we could see how they met and fell for each other. As a couple they just seem so awesome.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book 1 in a series about friends and family who start a bunch of hotels in California. This story takes place in La Jolla, close to San Diego and it features the President of the company Ryan and his new VP, Charlie. She has all these great ideas and he has different ideas I guess you could say.
There is friction, flirts and adorable kittens. To be honest I loved this book and Ryan and Charlie were lots of fun but the kittens were really annoying and I didn't really care for all the details about them. I did love the story and the supporting cast as well. But the kittens were cute at first but I lost interest when they started to pee on Ryan, totally ick.
That said this was a really fun story and I enjoyed it. I did wish I could have seen more romance between Ryan and Charlie. It was a great story but I would have enjoyed seeing them date more and get to know each other outside of sexy nights. Ryan also has a secret and I felt when it came out the results were a bit tame.
I loved Angela and Chris in this story. They are Ryan's mom and step dad. I would love a story so we could see how they met and fell for each other. As a couple they just seem so awesome.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2021
This is the first book in the California Suits Series and Ms Marti does a great job of introducing us to the main hub of characters. Drawing you in and wanting to see how these men succeed on this new adventure. Ryan who is the mastermind behind these new hotels is your first focus.
Ex-army buddies who have joined forces to make a dream of a luxury hotel a reality and Ryan is the president. He has a vision and he intends to do everything in his power to make it happen. Even when he is backed into a corner and his investors come with stipulations. He comes to us as a full alpha running the show and taking names but the more we read the more we see a different side to the man. A more caring side we weren't expecting, especially when it comes to his nemesis Charlie.
Charlie is a smart and sassy business woman who has fought hard and worked her ass off to get the recognition she has in the hotel management world. Hiding her not so great upbringing and family wealth from everyone is part of what keeps her sane. Surprised beyond belief when her biggest challenger hires her for the VP position in his new luxury hotel but definitely up for the challenge.
The push and pull of wills starts this story off with sparks flying everywhere, the banter is fun and witty, the flames burn hotter when they collide. Will Ryan and Charlie be able to put the past behind them and find equal ground, let their minds catch up with their hearts and give things an honest try? Or will the secrets bring forward too much pain for the love to survive?
Looking forward to see what comes next in the California Suits.
Ex-army buddies who have joined forces to make a dream of a luxury hotel a reality and Ryan is the president. He has a vision and he intends to do everything in his power to make it happen. Even when he is backed into a corner and his investors come with stipulations. He comes to us as a full alpha running the show and taking names but the more we read the more we see a different side to the man. A more caring side we weren't expecting, especially when it comes to his nemesis Charlie.
Charlie is a smart and sassy business woman who has fought hard and worked her ass off to get the recognition she has in the hotel management world. Hiding her not so great upbringing and family wealth from everyone is part of what keeps her sane. Surprised beyond belief when her biggest challenger hires her for the VP position in his new luxury hotel but definitely up for the challenge.
The push and pull of wills starts this story off with sparks flying everywhere, the banter is fun and witty, the flames burn hotter when they collide. Will Ryan and Charlie be able to put the past behind them and find equal ground, let their minds catch up with their hearts and give things an honest try? Or will the secrets bring forward too much pain for the love to survive?
Looking forward to see what comes next in the California Suits.
August 12, 2021
I love a strong heroine and Charlie does not disappoint. She is a woman who knows her stuff, knows what she wants, and will not let anything get in her way. She gets the opportunity for her dream job, and although it means working with her nemesis, she leaps at the opportunity. The sparks fly, but not in a sexy way! They butt heads from the beginning but it just makes it all the sweeter when they finally have sparks flying in the sexy way! This book also sets up the band of brothers that will be featured in the rest of the series.
I enjoy the quick pace of the book. Claire Marti knows how to write an easy page turner with witty repartee and fun characters. Jon, the assistant, is a particular favorite of mine... I’m hoping for a spin off - he’s so fun!
For a reliably good read, I recommend any of Claire Marti’s books. She is a favorite author of mine and can always get me engaged in whatever story she tells.
I enjoy the quick pace of the book. Claire Marti knows how to write an easy page turner with witty repartee and fun characters. Jon, the assistant, is a particular favorite of mine... I’m hoping for a spin off - he’s so fun!
For a reliably good read, I recommend any of Claire Marti’s books. She is a favorite author of mine and can always get me engaged in whatever story she tells.
August 15, 2021
4 ❋❋❋❋
~Ryan Michaels & Charlotte Ray~
🏨 An enemies-to-lovers romance
🏨 Banter for foreplay
🏨 Chemistry for days
🐱🐱 Cat fostering?!
This is my first Claire's read and I love it!! Ryan and Charlotte worked together once and she managed to win a promotion over Ryan and it left him better. Now, they have to work together once more...
With enemies turn lovers, it can be expected that there will be banter... and well, this book has it. Ryan and Charlotte are both competitive individuals but where Ryan is a planner, Charlotte is a rash person. She believes in "it's better to apologize rather than asking for permission." They clash at every opportunity and in everything. Buuuuuut when they can put their argument aside, they can see that they complement each other. And that's when the feelings enter the equation.
I love how the story progresses. It's a fun and quick read. It's filled with banter and steam and sexiness. Ryan is so sweet behind his grumpy boss face and Charlotte just needs someone who will prioritize her over everything. It is sweet to see them together. And I love this the most about the book: the way they handle the conflict. It's very mature and they solve it together as a couple. There isn't necessarily drama happening and I love it.
Overall, I love this story so much. And I can't wait for Ryan's friends, Jack, Cameron, Lucas, and his brother, Austin's stories!
*Thank you Wildfire Marketing PR for the ARC!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
~Ryan Michaels & Charlotte Ray~
🏨 An enemies-to-lovers romance
🏨 Banter for foreplay
🏨 Chemistry for days
🐱🐱 Cat fostering?!
This is my first Claire's read and I love it!! Ryan and Charlotte worked together once and she managed to win a promotion over Ryan and it left him better. Now, they have to work together once more...
With enemies turn lovers, it can be expected that there will be banter... and well, this book has it. Ryan and Charlotte are both competitive individuals but where Ryan is a planner, Charlotte is a rash person. She believes in "it's better to apologize rather than asking for permission." They clash at every opportunity and in everything. Buuuuuut when they can put their argument aside, they can see that they complement each other. And that's when the feelings enter the equation.
I love how the story progresses. It's a fun and quick read. It's filled with banter and steam and sexiness. Ryan is so sweet behind his grumpy boss face and Charlotte just needs someone who will prioritize her over everything. It is sweet to see them together. And I love this the most about the book: the way they handle the conflict. It's very mature and they solve it together as a couple. There isn't necessarily drama happening and I love it.
Overall, I love this story so much. And I can't wait for Ryan's friends, Jack, Cameron, Lucas, and his brother, Austin's stories!
*Thank you Wildfire Marketing PR for the ARC!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
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