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Billionaire Dads; Single Dads #3
Cocky Romance
Billionaire. CEO. My new evil overlord.
Max Stinton is the sinfully gorgeous villain whose company torpedoed my life eight years ago.
Arrogant. Charming. Steely eyed.
We meet again when I accidentally fix his car instead of trashing it (like I should have). Do I get a thank you and a bouquet of flowers? Nope.
In return for my auto repair, Mr. Hotshot traps me in a draconian contract.
The terms are simple—become the face of Stinton Auto and my daughter remains a secret from his awful family. Protecting my daughter is what I live for and loathing Stinton Group is the air I breathe.
So imagine my surprise when sparks start flying every time Max and I are in the same room.
He’s stubborn, annoying and there. Whenever I have a problem, he magically shows up and solves it. I can almost accuse of him caring. Which is ridiculous.
Blood-sucking vampires don’t have a heart.
Even if my seven-year-old insists that Max is the best thing ever. Can I keep my heart out of the paws of the Big Bad Wolf? And will I survive when news of what really happened eight years ago threatens everything I knew about Max Stinton?
COCKY ROMANCE is a witty, slow burn enemies to lovers BWWM romance with a flawed, outspoken heroine, her bright kid, and the irresistible villain who falls hard for them. The crackling chemistry will have you cheering for a happily-ever-after while keeping the romance closed-door.
Max Stinton is the sinfully gorgeous villain whose company torpedoed my life eight years ago.
Arrogant. Charming. Steely eyed.
We meet again when I accidentally fix his car instead of trashing it (like I should have). Do I get a thank you and a bouquet of flowers? Nope.
In return for my auto repair, Mr. Hotshot traps me in a draconian contract.
The terms are simple—become the face of Stinton Auto and my daughter remains a secret from his awful family. Protecting my daughter is what I live for and loathing Stinton Group is the air I breathe.
So imagine my surprise when sparks start flying every time Max and I are in the same room.
He’s stubborn, annoying and there. Whenever I have a problem, he magically shows up and solves it. I can almost accuse of him caring. Which is ridiculous.
Blood-sucking vampires don’t have a heart.
Even if my seven-year-old insists that Max is the best thing ever. Can I keep my heart out of the paws of the Big Bad Wolf? And will I survive when news of what really happened eight years ago threatens everything I knew about Max Stinton?
COCKY ROMANCE is a witty, slow burn enemies to lovers BWWM romance with a flawed, outspoken heroine, her bright kid, and the irresistible villain who falls hard for them. The crackling chemistry will have you cheering for a happily-ever-after while keeping the romance closed-door.
404 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2022
715 people are currently reading
3347 people want to read
About the author
Nia Arthurs
165 books986 followersFrom an early age, Nia knew she wanted to be a writer and actively began chasing that dream when she was a teenager.
Nia writes interracial romance and contemporary romance with guaranteed happy endings. She loves strong heroines and swoon-worthy heroes, and just enough spice and drama to keep things interesting!
Look for the Taming Series (Taming Mr. Jerkface, Taming Mr. Charming, Taming Mr. Know-It-All, and Taming Mr. Darcy) in ebook format.
And catch up with Nia on Facebook @authorniaarthurs. Happy Reading!
Nia writes interracial romance and contemporary romance with guaranteed happy endings. She loves strong heroines and swoon-worthy heroes, and just enough spice and drama to keep things interesting!
Look for the Taming Series (Taming Mr. Jerkface, Taming Mr. Charming, Taming Mr. Know-It-All, and Taming Mr. Darcy) in ebook format.
And catch up with Nia on Facebook @authorniaarthurs. Happy Reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
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November 21, 2022I'm not here for insta-lust/insta-attraction. He wants to lick her clavicle as soon as he sees her? Ok... (911, yeah, there's this clavicle licker...)
January 25, 2023
Almost DNF’d at 54% but then skipped to the end. I’m just so annoyed by this book. He is controlling, so controlling! And after he physically manhandled her, when she is trying to deal with some thing, she starts to feel all gooey over him because he’s controlling the situation, and “taking care of it“. It just annoyed me that he got to be right And she had to be taken care of. In general, she is a really cool awesome character and I liked her a lot. But I don’t like her falling for him when he is at his worst and he doesn’t seem to learn.
I’m also not a fan of how much the heroine lies to her little girl.
There’s so much drama and over the top behavior. Not worth reading.
I’m also not a fan of how much the heroine lies to her little girl.
There’s so much drama and over the top behavior. Not worth reading.
April 17, 2023
I just don't think this book was for me. Max annoyed me the most but do did Dawn and the whole back and forth they had going on just frustrated me more than anything else. It didn't make me see a connection between them at all and I pretty much never did.
Also, I'm not a fan of book going back in the past but I really think this one needed at least a prologue or something about Dawn and Trevor. Something to give us some background information about them more than that they apparently had a one night stand. Because it felt like more than that and especially since Trevor remembered her. Which at that point when he popped back up I wasn't even clear on whether or not he knew about his daughter. That entire storyline felt a little too jumbled for me I think.
Also, I'm not a fan of book going back in the past but I really think this one needed at least a prologue or something about Dawn and Trevor. Something to give us some background information about them more than that they apparently had a one night stand. Because it felt like more than that and especially since Trevor remembered her. Which at that point when he popped back up I wasn't even clear on whether or not he knew about his daughter. That entire storyline felt a little too jumbled for me I think.
February 25, 2023
3 Stars / 2 Steam Fans
Pretty sure I had a whole review written for it to disappear. I will not be writing it again. Check out the video review week below to hear my thoughts.
Video review available in Week 8: Feb 19 – Feb 25, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
Pretty sure I had a whole review written for it to disappear. I will not be writing it again. Check out the video review week below to hear my thoughts.
Video review available in Week 8: Feb 19 – Feb 25, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
February 27, 2023
While I have really enjoyed the past two books in this series, this one was hard to get through. I liked the idea of both of the main characters (Max & Dawn), but I feel like their internal monologues were sooo repetitive and exhaustive that I eventually started skimming it. This book really should have been a lot shorter than it was. Dawn continuously talked about how much she despised Max/Stinton group and being "tough," while Max was thirsty throughout most of the book lol. The relationship just didn't feel as organic as Kenya & Alistair's or Sunny & Darrel's.
Despite my previous statements about Max, I do think he was the best part of this book. I found myself wanting to read his POV more than Dawn's. Other things I enjoyed included the friendship between Dawn, Sunny, & Kenya; seeing sneak peeks of the previous couples' relationships; the stunt Max pulled in the end w/ the group (best thing ever); and of course, Beth.
P.S. I really think a spin-off should be made about Belle, Beth, Bailey, & Micheal! I want to know who ends up with who when they get older.
Despite my previous statements about Max, I do think he was the best part of this book. I found myself wanting to read his POV more than Dawn's. Other things I enjoyed included the friendship between Dawn, Sunny, & Kenya; seeing sneak peeks of the previous couples' relationships; the stunt Max pulled in the end w/ the group (best thing ever); and of course, Beth.
P.S. I really think a spin-off should be made about Belle, Beth, Bailey, & Micheal! I want to know who ends up with who when they get older.
March 6, 2022
Enjoyable
Good book. Loved Vanda and Hadyn and looking forward to their story. Somehow the story just did not resonate with me the way Alistair and Kenya's story did.
Good book. Loved Vanda and Hadyn and looking forward to their story. Somehow the story just did not resonate with me the way Alistair and Kenya's story did.
May 17, 2023
I felt nothing when reading this book but hatred and rage. I hate everyone in this book, they're all a bunch of people pleasers in the most annoying way.
Read
September 10, 2024Unfortunately I'm gonna dnf this one, I just don't like where it's going and I can't bring myself to push through it. So I'll just move on to the next one in the series
October 29, 2022
So enjoyed these books, but....
I really enjoyed the series and am currently reading book four. All the feels - funny, sad, angry along with the characters. I recommended this author to my sister, also an avid reader. I do have one issue. It's already established the couples are mixed with the women being black and/or Hispanic. Initially, skin color, hair texture, etc are part of visualizing the characters. However, the author CONSTANTLY refers to skin color over and over again. It really isn't necessary and was quite honestly annoying. I just don't see a need for it. That's why I could only give it four stars.
I really enjoyed the series and am currently reading book four. All the feels - funny, sad, angry along with the characters. I recommended this author to my sister, also an avid reader. I do have one issue. It's already established the couples are mixed with the women being black and/or Hispanic. Initially, skin color, hair texture, etc are part of visualizing the characters. However, the author CONSTANTLY refers to skin color over and over again. It really isn't necessary and was quite honestly annoying. I just don't see a need for it. That's why I could only give it four stars.
December 7, 2022
woof... this one was not fun
I'm not sure, as I don't remember blackmail being a part of the first plot, why this and Fiery Romance featured blackmail as the reason the two MCs are involved. It was a bad set up in Fiery Romance, however the characters' chemistry made me keep reading. This was a plot based on blackmail and past horrific actions that made me question the female lead's intelligence and feel so sorry for her daughter. It was... kind of a hot mess.
We start with Max using Beth's safety and privacy as a bargaining chip to get Dawn to work with him - and I still think he had no real motivation for wanting her to work with him. Right off the bat, we see he doesn't care about Beth's well being and then we come to find out he ordered lawyers to pressure Dawn to get rid of her pregnancy before Beth was born. Even if they backtrack on that in the end (I don't know if they did because I skimmed the last parts out of annoyance), but the majority of this book is Dawn thinking Max did that. These 2 horrific things made any attraction she felt to him incredibly baffling.
Beth deserved better than having to interact with someone that did that. The fact that Dawn never thinks about that made me question what kind of mother she was. How is she protecting her daughter when she's letting people that wanted her gone be around her. Which brings me to the fact that Max's whole blackmail scheme was dangling his ability to protect Beth as a reward for cooperation - and in the end, he can't even provide that. He was useless and reactionary so the only times he "protected" them, he was posturing at people who were violent toward Dawn or rude toward her during shoots. He didn't do anything that really mattered.
The villains in this story were cartoonishly evil - I mean that in a bad way. I took no one seriously. I actually appreciated that George was the only Stinton not pretending to be a good person. The entire family was useless and racist. Trevor was annoying and, again, no idea what Dawn saw in him. Willis was so over the top that I questioned if the point wouldn't have been better made with someone less outwardly misogynistic. We have the "good guy" Clint (btw his name was Peter Clint... what an awful name) saying that he forgot Dawn was a "female" when she worked. Not a compliment.
The fact that Vanya comes to Dawn's apartment to get her to take Max back because he was so upset she broke up with him (you know, for participating in pressuring her to get an abortion) was so messed up. We have women cleaning up men's messes in this story and that was so incredibly inappropriate. Why ever push the idea that a woman needs to take a guy back because he's miserable and suffering consequences for his own despicable behavior? Good. He deserves that. The added bit where Max was trying to defend it with being a different person now made the question the author's intent because anyone who, at any point, saw fit to pressure a woman into an abortion can become a saint and that will still not make up for what they did.
So, in conclusion, I actively rooted against these two being together. It's the only one of the 3 in this series I've read where I saw no chemistry at all between the lead characters and I questioned Dawn's intelligence. What is actually wrong with her?
I'm not sure, as I don't remember blackmail being a part of the first plot, why this and Fiery Romance featured blackmail as the reason the two MCs are involved. It was a bad set up in Fiery Romance, however the characters' chemistry made me keep reading. This was a plot based on blackmail and past horrific actions that made me question the female lead's intelligence and feel so sorry for her daughter. It was... kind of a hot mess.
We start with Max using Beth's safety and privacy as a bargaining chip to get Dawn to work with him - and I still think he had no real motivation for wanting her to work with him. Right off the bat, we see he doesn't care about Beth's well being and then we come to find out he ordered lawyers to pressure Dawn to get rid of her pregnancy before Beth was born. Even if they backtrack on that in the end (I don't know if they did because I skimmed the last parts out of annoyance), but the majority of this book is Dawn thinking Max did that. These 2 horrific things made any attraction she felt to him incredibly baffling.
Beth deserved better than having to interact with someone that did that. The fact that Dawn never thinks about that made me question what kind of mother she was. How is she protecting her daughter when she's letting people that wanted her gone be around her. Which brings me to the fact that Max's whole blackmail scheme was dangling his ability to protect Beth as a reward for cooperation - and in the end, he can't even provide that. He was useless and reactionary so the only times he "protected" them, he was posturing at people who were violent toward Dawn or rude toward her during shoots. He didn't do anything that really mattered.
The villains in this story were cartoonishly evil - I mean that in a bad way. I took no one seriously. I actually appreciated that George was the only Stinton not pretending to be a good person. The entire family was useless and racist. Trevor was annoying and, again, no idea what Dawn saw in him. Willis was so over the top that I questioned if the point wouldn't have been better made with someone less outwardly misogynistic. We have the "good guy" Clint (btw his name was Peter Clint... what an awful name) saying that he forgot Dawn was a "female" when she worked. Not a compliment.
The fact that Vanya comes to Dawn's apartment to get her to take Max back because he was so upset she broke up with him (you know, for participating in pressuring her to get an abortion) was so messed up. We have women cleaning up men's messes in this story and that was so incredibly inappropriate. Why ever push the idea that a woman needs to take a guy back because he's miserable and suffering consequences for his own despicable behavior? Good. He deserves that. The added bit where Max was trying to defend it with being a different person now made the question the author's intent because anyone who, at any point, saw fit to pressure a woman into an abortion can become a saint and that will still not make up for what they did.
So, in conclusion, I actively rooted against these two being together. It's the only one of the 3 in this series I've read where I saw no chemistry at all between the lead characters and I questioned Dawn's intelligence. What is actually wrong with her?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2022
Out of the mouths of babes
It was Beth that reminded her mother that she was not perfect either, and made Dawn realize that Max Stinton was not the same man he was eight years ago and neither was she. They were both liars about things they did not want someone special In their lives to know. Throughout it all, even though Max forced Dawn into the contract, he still made sure that he protected information about Beth coming to light. Everything he did was to protect Dawn and Beth.
Dawn was falling for Max but she had to be very careful with her heart. She could not let her emotions carry her away like it did eight years ago while grieving the passing of her father. When she found out who sent the lawyers on her eight years prior, she thought that forgiveness was out of the question, but both of them were miserable without the other. Max missed his sexy smart-mouthed and witty mechanic and Dawn missed her workaholic man that was an undercover softy with a heart.
This story was well written and full of mystery and drama hanging over it. The reader did not know what to expect next in the storyline. Max learned that the Stinton Group was not that important to him anymore. He also learned to let his brother manage his own life without his interference. One of the biggest things he learned was why his mother tried her best to keep him away from the Stinton family, including his no longer needing the approval of his father. But he also realized that the best way to protect Dawn and Beth was to stay in control of the company. He becomes a better man because of Dawn and Beth. That was something his brother would never be.
It was Beth that reminded her mother that she was not perfect either, and made Dawn realize that Max Stinton was not the same man he was eight years ago and neither was she. They were both liars about things they did not want someone special In their lives to know. Throughout it all, even though Max forced Dawn into the contract, he still made sure that he protected information about Beth coming to light. Everything he did was to protect Dawn and Beth.
Dawn was falling for Max but she had to be very careful with her heart. She could not let her emotions carry her away like it did eight years ago while grieving the passing of her father. When she found out who sent the lawyers on her eight years prior, she thought that forgiveness was out of the question, but both of them were miserable without the other. Max missed his sexy smart-mouthed and witty mechanic and Dawn missed her workaholic man that was an undercover softy with a heart.
This story was well written and full of mystery and drama hanging over it. The reader did not know what to expect next in the storyline. Max learned that the Stinton Group was not that important to him anymore. He also learned to let his brother manage his own life without his interference. One of the biggest things he learned was why his mother tried her best to keep him away from the Stinton family, including his no longer needing the approval of his father. But he also realized that the best way to protect Dawn and Beth was to stay in control of the company. He becomes a better man because of Dawn and Beth. That was something his brother would never be.
May 15, 2024
Sweet! Sassy! Suspenseful!
Max Stinton is tall, handsome, brilliant and bossy! He was also born on the "wrong side of the bed sheets". That's how my grandmother's generation described children born outside of marriage. However, that was not Max's fault, yet he felt responsible for cleaning up his irresponsible brother's behavior (Trevor, the true heir). Max felt he had to prove to his father he was the "better" son.
When he meets Dawn, a female mechanic, and the mother of his brother's child, she shows him exactly what is really important in life. The push and pull between them is fascinating as well as hilarious to watch.
Max Stinton is tall, handsome, brilliant and bossy! He was also born on the "wrong side of the bed sheets". That's how my grandmother's generation described children born outside of marriage. However, that was not Max's fault, yet he felt responsible for cleaning up his irresponsible brother's behavior (Trevor, the true heir). Max felt he had to prove to his father he was the "better" son.
When he meets Dawn, a female mechanic, and the mother of his brother's child, she shows him exactly what is really important in life. The push and pull between them is fascinating as well as hilarious to watch.
March 13, 2022
Cocky???
Which one was cocky?? They both kinda got on my nerves with the back and forth. Dawn was almost to annoying and arrogant for anyone
Which one was cocky?? They both kinda got on my nerves with the back and forth. Dawn was almost to annoying and arrogant for anyone
May 26, 2023
just couldn’t feel the chemistry between max and dawn
July 14, 2023
it’s the way i got so mad towards the end of the book i just stopped reading and i was about to dnf but i pushed through bc i’m a survivor and i got over it but like ugh i hate when men lie. i don’t think i’m gonna continue this series anymore bc i got some anger issues i need to rein in before continuing lol but it was alright it felt like the same quality and rating as the last books like the books are consistent in that. something about this book was a little off tho and i think it’s bc the whole series revolves around the single parent trope and i felt there wasn’t as many interaction between the kid and the parent and future partner as i would like to fully embody the trope yk especially bc the scenes w the mom and the daughter was kinda rocky but i think im just being too judgy bc all kids argue w their parents but that doesn’t mean they hate them but idk i felt like there wasn’t many good moments between the mom and the kid but again that’s me. i wish there was more interactions between the kid and the main guy tho bc she liked him right away and that’s that like there was no kinda development to get them to this level it was instant which makes sense she’s a kid but idk i wanted more from them. now lemme talk about the main guy why is he lowkey insane and idk whether it’s a good way or not bc this man said he has a gallon of oil or gas whatever it was to smell bc it reminds me of the main girl like i don’t think that’s healthy but ok loyal. it’s just so awks that the main guy is the uncle of the main girl’s daughter like the family tree gonna look a little messy but hey i don’t judge you girly do what you want but that was the reason the main girl and main guy were like we can’t be together and also bc the main girl hates the main guy’s family for getting lawyers to try to pay her off to aborting her baby which is fucked but the main guy has changed yk he’s sniffing oil for her. but like i found that reason for not wanting to be together bc of the whole family shit kinda dumb if you like him go after him fr and that didn’t hold them back that well bc they end up getting together anyways but they were together for literally the shortest amount of time before the third act breakup where the truth is revealed of the main guy being behind the lawyers and that he lied but damn that was so short and he realizes he loves her after she leaves damn y’all fall in love fast it’s crazy but also it’s fiction i’ll let them breathe. the main girl is literally so strong bc if i had to be the face of this company and had to take criticism and backlash i think i would end it there but like she’s such a headstrong character girly was a single mom working in a male dominated field and deals w sexism everyday but that doesn’t stop her like she’s just so funzies. i wish we got more background of her family tho bc all we know is both her parents are dead and she was inspired by her dad to become a mechanic and this niche ass plot point used to threaten her of how her dad fixed her moms car that ended up killing her mom which makes sense for why she felt so guilty about this whole car mishap drama mid way through the book but like i wanted more come on talk about your childhood your lore fr but beggars can’t be choosers again. like we know more of the main guy’s background bc that’s a big part of the plot w his family company and how he’s actually an illegitimate son so i wish there was the same energy for the main girl’s even tho it isn’t as prevalent to the current plot but it gives a better understanding to my girl. i do like the main couple together i will say that like their chemistry is good i love a man obsessed w the main girl and she makes him work for it as all relationships should be fr and he was an asshole at first like all of these books but he grows on her and he grew on me too like she just needs someone to support her and that’s what he is for her fr. i’m giving this a 7.5/10 just another average book but hey it’s good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2022
After reading the first book in the series, which I adored, and the second that turned out to be a great disappointment, I had no idea what to expect from the third one. It is the only series I’ve read from this author, so I did not know whether Grumpy Romance was exceptionally good or Surly Romance unexpectedly missed. However, after finishing Cocky Romance I can say for sure that it’s the latter.
Max and Dawn’s story was engaging since the very beginning. Because of how they were connected, their relationship had to be complicated and fraught, but it only made the book much more interesting and compelling. Both of the main characters were extremely complex people that went through a lot. Due to their histories, their actions were understandable and I’m glad that the author took time to make the reader learn their motivations.
Because of the circumstances, there was a lot they had to overcome to be together. Nevertheless, their chemistry was incredible and it was apparent since their first meeting. They were a perfect match for each other with the way they saw each other for who they truly were and how supportive and thoughtful they were towards the other person. The fact that Max was completely obsessed with Dawn and was absolutely miserable without her is also a huge asset to the story - I love when men are wretched without their partner.
The whole book was wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable, and I’m glad that after a wet weekend that was Surly Romance Max and Dawn brought the series back on the right tracks. This book provided me with everything I love about romance and there is nothing I would change about it.
I am looking forward to reading other Nia Arthurs books.
Max and Dawn’s story was engaging since the very beginning. Because of how they were connected, their relationship had to be complicated and fraught, but it only made the book much more interesting and compelling. Both of the main characters were extremely complex people that went through a lot. Due to their histories, their actions were understandable and I’m glad that the author took time to make the reader learn their motivations.
Because of the circumstances, there was a lot they had to overcome to be together. Nevertheless, their chemistry was incredible and it was apparent since their first meeting. They were a perfect match for each other with the way they saw each other for who they truly were and how supportive and thoughtful they were towards the other person. The fact that Max was completely obsessed with Dawn and was absolutely miserable without her is also a huge asset to the story - I love when men are wretched without their partner.
The whole book was wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable, and I’m glad that after a wet weekend that was Surly Romance Max and Dawn brought the series back on the right tracks. This book provided me with everything I love about romance and there is nothing I would change about it.
I am looking forward to reading other Nia Arthurs books.
March 25, 2022
Max and the girl mechanic
Max Stenton is CEO of the Stenton Group. He is the one who covers everything his brother Trevor creates. Trevor swindled people out of their money when he was running Stenton Investments. He disappeared and Max is the one who had to clean up the mess.
Dawn Banner is the female mechanic at the Auto facility they just acquired. He wants her to be the face of Stenton Auto.
She's fantastic at diagnosis and fix cars. Especially specialty cars.
The issue is Dawn has a daughter by Trevor Stenton and it has been hushed for years. The family wasn't sure if she had the baby or not. Beth is seven years old and smart like a whip.
Max knows but he is trying to keep it a secret. But in the process he had blackmailing her to do his bidding. Or let out the information about Beth.
As time goes on the attraction changes and feels respect for her being a single mom and being stubborn to protect her daughter.
Max will do anything to protect them both from his Father and Trevor. Lots of turmoil and conflicting of the Stenton Group that makes Max decides to step down to Save Dawn.
Great story of these two people fighting for welfare of each other. Loved the story.
Max Stenton is CEO of the Stenton Group. He is the one who covers everything his brother Trevor creates. Trevor swindled people out of their money when he was running Stenton Investments. He disappeared and Max is the one who had to clean up the mess.
Dawn Banner is the female mechanic at the Auto facility they just acquired. He wants her to be the face of Stenton Auto.
She's fantastic at diagnosis and fix cars. Especially specialty cars.
The issue is Dawn has a daughter by Trevor Stenton and it has been hushed for years. The family wasn't sure if she had the baby or not. Beth is seven years old and smart like a whip.
Max knows but he is trying to keep it a secret. But in the process he had blackmailing her to do his bidding. Or let out the information about Beth.
As time goes on the attraction changes and feels respect for her being a single mom and being stubborn to protect her daughter.
Max will do anything to protect them both from his Father and Trevor. Lots of turmoil and conflicting of the Stenton Group that makes Max decides to step down to Save Dawn.
Great story of these two people fighting for welfare of each other. Loved the story.
November 3, 2022
before we get into the couple i wanted to feature the biggest comedian in these books
Mama Moira clears her throat. “Save some room for the Lord.”
LONG LIVE MAMA MOIRA
now to the couple in questioning
You shouldn’t have given up Stinton Group,” she croaks. I can’t help it. I brush my finger against the tear that falls down her cheek. “I found something that I love more than the company."
HELLO DADDY MAX
the way this man had my knees weak
he was such a beautiful mix between cold and caring
he knew when to hold up his walls and when to drop them
"You broke the great Max Stinton"
as dawn should he totally deserved it
but damn did i want them to resolve their problems
"to take risks because you know I’ll catch you if you fall and I’ll ruin anyone who crosses you"
I WANT SOMEONE TO SPEAK TO ME LIKE THIS
the way max stinton had a way with words had my legs swinging and hair twirling
"You ready to sign another contract with me, Ms. Banner?” “As long as we both decide on the terms this time.” “Deal.”
DAMN RIGHT AS IT SHOULD BE
andd to conclude this id like to say dawn made me scream i love women but i love dawn more
i never knew id wanna kiss someone so badly who doesn't exist lol
but dawn made it possible
Mama Moira clears her throat. “Save some room for the Lord.”
LONG LIVE MAMA MOIRA
now to the couple in questioning
You shouldn’t have given up Stinton Group,” she croaks. I can’t help it. I brush my finger against the tear that falls down her cheek. “I found something that I love more than the company."
HELLO DADDY MAX
the way this man had my knees weak
he was such a beautiful mix between cold and caring
he knew when to hold up his walls and when to drop them
"You broke the great Max Stinton"
as dawn should he totally deserved it
but damn did i want them to resolve their problems
"to take risks because you know I’ll catch you if you fall and I’ll ruin anyone who crosses you"
I WANT SOMEONE TO SPEAK TO ME LIKE THIS
the way max stinton had a way with words had my legs swinging and hair twirling
"You ready to sign another contract with me, Ms. Banner?” “As long as we both decide on the terms this time.” “Deal.”
DAMN RIGHT AS IT SHOULD BE
andd to conclude this id like to say dawn made me scream i love women but i love dawn more
i never knew id wanna kiss someone so badly who doesn't exist lol
but dawn made it possible
May 4, 2023
a wrench to the heart
Dawn was a single mom and auto mechanic who just wanted to fix cars, raise her daughter and mind her business. She was ballsy, outspoken, and didn’t back down. She had skills and brains for days when it came to fixing cars, but because she was a female her skills always came into question.
Max was a the cocky, cutthroat, and handsome head of a billion dollar corporation. He ate, slept and breathed the company that was created by his father. He was known for being the boss, being heartless and doing whatever it took to further the company.
These two cross paths and a deal is made - Dawn hands are tied and Max wields the upper hand. During his quest to turn the company around, he uses Dawn’s skills and beauty to make it happen but doesn’t anticipate falling for her in the process. Every barb, every rebuttal, every defiant action that she makes turns him on. Dawn will not go into this agreement quietly. She bristles, argues, and takes shots at every turn, but she finds herself attracted to him too.
They find themselves in a situation and Max goes to great lengths to protect her and her daughter. They’re each others person and this was a great read.
Dawn was a single mom and auto mechanic who just wanted to fix cars, raise her daughter and mind her business. She was ballsy, outspoken, and didn’t back down. She had skills and brains for days when it came to fixing cars, but because she was a female her skills always came into question.
Max was a the cocky, cutthroat, and handsome head of a billion dollar corporation. He ate, slept and breathed the company that was created by his father. He was known for being the boss, being heartless and doing whatever it took to further the company.
These two cross paths and a deal is made - Dawn hands are tied and Max wields the upper hand. During his quest to turn the company around, he uses Dawn’s skills and beauty to make it happen but doesn’t anticipate falling for her in the process. Every barb, every rebuttal, every defiant action that she makes turns him on. Dawn will not go into this agreement quietly. She bristles, argues, and takes shots at every turn, but she finds herself attracted to him too.
They find themselves in a situation and Max goes to great lengths to protect her and her daughter. They’re each others person and this was a great read.
March 7, 2022
George Stinton, what a douche!
Sadly George had an illicit affair with Max's mother never telling her he was married until she found herself pregnant with Max. Fast forward to adulthood for Max and his half sibling Trevor (the legitimate son of George). Max joins the family business and spends the next decade being used by his father to protect the son he values! Thankfully when George tries to harm Dawn who had a drunken one night stand with Trevor (the irresponsible younger brother) resulting in a child, Max breaks ties with the family business. When Max sees that leaving just unleashes the real evil of his father, he takes the company from his father. He then sets rules and boundaries for his brother and sets about convincing Dawn to marry him. Nia, I really enjoyed this story and all of the plots and twists of the storyline!!! A really great job Nia!! I found myself rooting for Max and openly hoping his dad and brother would get what they had coming!!!!!!
Sadly George had an illicit affair with Max's mother never telling her he was married until she found herself pregnant with Max. Fast forward to adulthood for Max and his half sibling Trevor (the legitimate son of George). Max joins the family business and spends the next decade being used by his father to protect the son he values! Thankfully when George tries to harm Dawn who had a drunken one night stand with Trevor (the irresponsible younger brother) resulting in a child, Max breaks ties with the family business. When Max sees that leaving just unleashes the real evil of his father, he takes the company from his father. He then sets rules and boundaries for his brother and sets about convincing Dawn to marry him. Nia, I really enjoyed this story and all of the plots and twists of the storyline!!! A really great job Nia!! I found myself rooting for Max and openly hoping his dad and brother would get what they had coming!!!!!!
January 15, 2023
Cocky Romance
Just like the two previous books in this series I once again loved reading this book. Max, max, max there were moments in which I think I shed a tear cause I felt as if no one was in his side.
I feel like out of the 2 previous MMC in this series he has the biggest heart and the biggest softie🥹.
Dawn is a badass!!! I’m not even surprised cause the women in this series are not meek and they do not cower!!! It’s so refreshing to see cause I feel like it’s the norm now to make a lady cower or just let things go from time to time in books but Ms Authurs made sure she wrote about outspoken, fierce women and I am 100% here for it!!!
Like just her being a mechanic, like yes girl! You are doing that and you are doing it fantastically!
And her daughter 🥹like just. I love kids and I love it when they are included in books. I feel like these series has everything that I’ve ever longed for in a book for ages.
There are
Black female leads
Grumpy men
Billionaires (cause ain’t nobody got time to worry about money no more)
Children 🥹
Outspoken, resilient women
I mean what more could you ask for!!
Just like the two previous books in this series I once again loved reading this book. Max, max, max there were moments in which I think I shed a tear cause I felt as if no one was in his side.
I feel like out of the 2 previous MMC in this series he has the biggest heart and the biggest softie🥹.
Dawn is a badass!!! I’m not even surprised cause the women in this series are not meek and they do not cower!!! It’s so refreshing to see cause I feel like it’s the norm now to make a lady cower or just let things go from time to time in books but Ms Authurs made sure she wrote about outspoken, fierce women and I am 100% here for it!!!
Like just her being a mechanic, like yes girl! You are doing that and you are doing it fantastically!
And her daughter 🥹like just. I love kids and I love it when they are included in books. I feel like these series has everything that I’ve ever longed for in a book for ages.
There are
Black female leads
Grumpy men
Billionaires (cause ain’t nobody got time to worry about money no more)
Children 🥹
Outspoken, resilient women
I mean what more could you ask for!!
March 10, 2022
The Best 3
I’m not just saying that because it’s the third book in the series. This book was a the best combination of her make it marriage series, her relationship repair series, and her Belizean series.
None of the characters from those stories were in this book or in the series. However it had elements from each of those. She combined significant relationship issues both romantic and Familial. She also had the characters developing and healing themselves somewhat like and make it marriage series. Also like to make it marriage series, the characters in this series were all intertwined like a big family. I love that about to make it marriage books. There are also some references to Belizean culture and family structure. Finally, I love this couple. They were both unique even though Ms. authors has written numerous books. Each of their stories was also unique. I was invested from start to finish and how their story would work itself out.
You need to read this book!
I’m not just saying that because it’s the third book in the series. This book was a the best combination of her make it marriage series, her relationship repair series, and her Belizean series.
None of the characters from those stories were in this book or in the series. However it had elements from each of those. She combined significant relationship issues both romantic and Familial. She also had the characters developing and healing themselves somewhat like and make it marriage series. Also like to make it marriage series, the characters in this series were all intertwined like a big family. I love that about to make it marriage books. There are also some references to Belizean culture and family structure. Finally, I love this couple. They were both unique even though Ms. authors has written numerous books. Each of their stories was also unique. I was invested from start to finish and how their story would work itself out.
You need to read this book!
March 10, 2022
Max and Dawn
Max was the figurehead for his families business. This story picks up where Sunny and Darrell's leaves off.
Dawn is the mechanic that had the daughter that became friends with Darrelle adopted children. Max is the man Darrell calls when Sunny was ripped off by his brother Trevor.
So as this story goes Dawn met Trevor 8 years ago, she had a one night stand with him. He's of course the family screw up and Darell is the big brother that always recuse him. Their ONS produces a baby that he didn't want anything to do with. His fixer brother Max sent lawyers to buy Dawn off. She says screw that and kept the baby.
Right years later she meets Darrell and that's were the story begins. Darrell has done interesting character traits, he's also the illegitimate eldest son. His dad and his brother are pricks that use him for their personal gain.
I recommend you read this book if you've already read the others, this journey is just as good.
Max was the figurehead for his families business. This story picks up where Sunny and Darrell's leaves off.
Dawn is the mechanic that had the daughter that became friends with Darrelle adopted children. Max is the man Darrell calls when Sunny was ripped off by his brother Trevor.
So as this story goes Dawn met Trevor 8 years ago, she had a one night stand with him. He's of course the family screw up and Darell is the big brother that always recuse him. Their ONS produces a baby that he didn't want anything to do with. His fixer brother Max sent lawyers to buy Dawn off. She says screw that and kept the baby.
Right years later she meets Darrell and that's were the story begins. Darrell has done interesting character traits, he's also the illegitimate eldest son. His dad and his brother are pricks that use him for their personal gain.
I recommend you read this book if you've already read the others, this journey is just as good.
March 20, 2022
Absolutely Amazing
This is a uniquely and awesome series! Each story is a part that makes a awesome whole. Its such a exciting series that brings romance and a huge lump to your heart, The characters are awesome and their passion burns up the pages with their chemistry which is sizzling hot. What a independent woman can do and one that makes you feel happy for her and her relationship. This series is such a pleasurable experience that you will definitely enjoy, this such a believable series and it's a great story that's such a captivating read. It's what can happen when a couple meets and they fall in love each other, their chemistry is so awesome that it turns into the love of their lives. I really enjoyed this series. Even the secondary characters are extraordinary which makes this series full of beautiful stories to read. It's definitely FIVE STARS! I would give it more if possible.
This is a uniquely and awesome series! Each story is a part that makes a awesome whole. Its such a exciting series that brings romance and a huge lump to your heart, The characters are awesome and their passion burns up the pages with their chemistry which is sizzling hot. What a independent woman can do and one that makes you feel happy for her and her relationship. This series is such a pleasurable experience that you will definitely enjoy, this such a believable series and it's a great story that's such a captivating read. It's what can happen when a couple meets and they fall in love each other, their chemistry is so awesome that it turns into the love of their lives. I really enjoyed this series. Even the secondary characters are extraordinary which makes this series full of beautiful stories to read. It's definitely FIVE STARS! I would give it more if possible.
February 5, 2023
Cocky Has Met His Match!
1. Of the Grumpy, Surly, and Cocky Romance books I've read this far, Darrel excites me the most in a fictional potential partner. I liked him even more in this book with the confrontation between him and Max in the gym.
2. Dawn and Beth, especially as Beth gives her blessing. Beth is wise beyond her seven years. ❤️
3. There is a consistent theme of sisterhood, specifically, Black women/POC sisterhood in these books. In Grumpy, you see it with Kenya and Sunny; In Surly you see it with Sunny and Kenya, with the addition of Dawn; and in Cocky you see it with Dawn, Sunny, Kenya, and Sunny's mom, Mama Moira. I love how this family continues to expand. (Family is also a strong theme within these books as well and I love it!)
4. Nia has always been great about brown skinned diversity of her protagonists. What I just realized is that thus far, she has also incorporated body and cultural diversity with her female protagonists as well.
1. Of the Grumpy, Surly, and Cocky Romance books I've read this far, Darrel excites me the most in a fictional potential partner. I liked him even more in this book with the confrontation between him and Max in the gym.
2. Dawn and Beth, especially as Beth gives her blessing. Beth is wise beyond her seven years. ❤️
3. There is a consistent theme of sisterhood, specifically, Black women/POC sisterhood in these books. In Grumpy, you see it with Kenya and Sunny; In Surly you see it with Sunny and Kenya, with the addition of Dawn; and in Cocky you see it with Dawn, Sunny, Kenya, and Sunny's mom, Mama Moira. I love how this family continues to expand. (Family is also a strong theme within these books as well and I love it!)
4. Nia has always been great about brown skinned diversity of her protagonists. What I just realized is that thus far, she has also incorporated body and cultural diversity with her female protagonists as well.
April 26, 2022
Bossman and his Mechanic
Nia Arthurs never disappoints with her books. As usual this is another good read. Max and Dawn's story is just as interesting as the others in this series. Max was a total alpha male who came across as a monster, but had a big heart that you totally fell for. Dawn was definitely not your typical women due to her profession, but packed a spitfire punch you liked a lot. Putting the bulldozer Max with the firecracker Dawn was perfect. I loved how Sunny and her family and friends became Dawn's family and how Hayden and Vanya was Max's family. The topping on the cake was Beth getting a family so she wasn't alone anymore. Of course Max and Dawn made mistakes and it took family to help them get over it and that's probably why I liked it so much. Can't wait for Hayden and Vanya's story.
Nia Arthurs never disappoints with her books. As usual this is another good read. Max and Dawn's story is just as interesting as the others in this series. Max was a total alpha male who came across as a monster, but had a big heart that you totally fell for. Dawn was definitely not your typical women due to her profession, but packed a spitfire punch you liked a lot. Putting the bulldozer Max with the firecracker Dawn was perfect. I loved how Sunny and her family and friends became Dawn's family and how Hayden and Vanya was Max's family. The topping on the cake was Beth getting a family so she wasn't alone anymore. Of course Max and Dawn made mistakes and it took family to help them get over it and that's probably why I liked it so much. Can't wait for Hayden and Vanya's story.
December 6, 2022
3/5 out of all the books I read in this series so far, this one isn't my favorite
I wish we saw more of belle, I feel as if belle was barley in this and I would have loved to see her interacting with the love interest more
that one scene where she calls him to the ice cream shop with Micheal and Bailey I absolutely loved, I thought it was so cute
also I felt like this book was also very dragged out, I see a common occurrence when reading this series. all the males seem to want to... im not sure if control is the right word but basically control them and the females never go for it and fight against it. in some of the books it was very annoying only because it's like we're getting the same thing over and over again in different fonts
im so excited for the next book, I was excited for this but im very disappointed in it not meeting my expectations
I wish we saw more of belle, I feel as if belle was barley in this and I would have loved to see her interacting with the love interest more
that one scene where she calls him to the ice cream shop with Micheal and Bailey I absolutely loved, I thought it was so cute
also I felt like this book was also very dragged out, I see a common occurrence when reading this series. all the males seem to want to... im not sure if control is the right word but basically control them and the females never go for it and fight against it. in some of the books it was very annoying only because it's like we're getting the same thing over and over again in different fonts
im so excited for the next book, I was excited for this but im very disappointed in it not meeting my expectations
May 31, 2023
This is so sad and disappointing because I liked the first two books in this series and was genuinely excited for this one but it was just so boring. Every other 5 pages were them saying the same thing, "She/he is so infuriating, so stubborn, so wrong for me, but so hot" I get it they are attracted to each other but being together is complicated however did we really need 400 pages of the same thing over and over again. I swear Dawn and Max would spend entire pages talking about their feelings whilst in the middle of a dialogue with another character. It was really tiring. Honestly Nia did you not wanna write this book, because as painful as it was reading this book, it must've been worse to write. It felt like Nia(the author) had nothing to say and was just trying to get enough pages. I will be reading the next book in the series but i will not be finishing this one.
March 27, 2022
Dawn, Beth and Max - A family alas
I always say that whatever Nia Arthurs book I am reading is my favorite but this one is definitely it! I laughed, I cried, I was angry like I was the one deceived, I wanted to strangle George Stinton and immature Trevor. SPOILER ALERT: After George tries to blackmail Hope into continuing her contract and Max shows up and saves the day with a contract ending her obligations and then I was I overjoyed when Max outsmarted his dad (buying his stocks anonymously) and the Board took Max back with open arms because George had lost almost everything. The company was losing money under George but striving before Max resigned. This is a must read but beware your emotions will run wild!
I always say that whatever Nia Arthurs book I am reading is my favorite but this one is definitely it! I laughed, I cried, I was angry like I was the one deceived, I wanted to strangle George Stinton and immature Trevor. SPOILER ALERT: After George tries to blackmail Hope into continuing her contract and Max shows up and saves the day with a contract ending her obligations and then I was I overjoyed when Max outsmarted his dad (buying his stocks anonymously) and the Board took Max back with open arms because George had lost almost everything. The company was losing money under George but striving before Max resigned. This is a must read but beware your emotions will run wild!
July 14, 2024
DNF - 78% read
TW: pregnancy and the options surrounding it
I tried, I really did. Didn't like Max from the start. No true redeemable qualities. The man threatens her child. THREATENS; and the reader is supposed to like him bc he sets up a college fund for the child (that he threatened), sends the child a chef that nobody wanted and tried to get rid of (threatened again to ensure he stays) and apologizes to the media to her (but not about threatening her child)? Not to mention him trying to bribe her to get an abortion years before and then lying about that to her when asked!! I like Dawn but her character is not enough to make up for the rest, especially since she somehow falls for him. Where and How?
TW: pregnancy and the options surrounding it
I tried, I really did. Didn't like Max from the start. No true redeemable qualities. The man threatens her child. THREATENS; and the reader is supposed to like him bc he sets up a college fund for the child (that he threatened), sends the child a chef that nobody wanted and tried to get rid of (threatened again to ensure he stays) and apologizes to the media to her (but not about threatening her child)? Not to mention him trying to bribe her to get an abortion years before and then lying about that to her when asked!! I like Dawn but her character is not enough to make up for the rest, especially since she somehow falls for him. Where and How?
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