Contents:
It wasn't just a first time meet and instantly I love you and you are my soulmate. It was something that took time. They bot I received an ARC from the author. They both had things that they needed to overcome. There were obstacles for them both in their relationship and in their professional lives. But this book was also about family. I like reading books like this because it isn't centered around the sex.
Tanner, billionaire dating app developer It might have been that their romance happened too fast also; especially if .. Oh lord this book had me laughing through out the book thank's to one little old It wasn't just a first time meet and instantly I love you and you are my soulmate. .. previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 next». Pierce Brothers Series Book 3 Brenda Pearson. I'm glad you came through okay. I couldn't help but smile knowing that Max had honestly found his soulmate. Lizzie was so focused; I could tell she wasn't in the mood for games. was doing , probably knowing that if she wasn't paying attention she would cut off one of.
It is about the connection with the characters and the connections the other characters in the book. That is what makes this book so much better than others because there is a story-line there that isn't in other books. Also Jasper and Nonna are absolutely hilarious. Jun 14, Julie rated it it was amazing. Jessica has given us another wonderful book captivating you from the first chapter drawing you in to this romantic love story between Gemma a love matchmaker and Tanner a non believer in true love and CEO of his own app creator company developing love apps.
I just love how Jessica entangles two stories together Gemma match making finding a soulmate for Tanner to improve his credibility and the treachery of someone in his company hell bent on taking over Tanners position as CEO with a little help Jessica has given us another wonderful book captivating you from the first chapter drawing you in to this romantic love story between Gemma a love matchmaker and Tanner a non believer in true love and CEO of his own app creator company developing love apps. The chemistry between Gemma and Tanner is scorching HOT but they are both in denial, will they realise what they have together??
Nonna Gemma's wise elderly granny along with her friends and crazy dog George Clooney give you the laugh out loud moments that make this story so believable and special. If you like a book that has tension, suspense,humour, romance and plenty of steam then what's stopping you from adding this to your collection. I was given this as an ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review.
Jun 13, Ann rated it it was amazing. I truly enjoy this author's work. Claiming my soulmate is a sweet story about finding love after you've given up on it. He finds himself in a world of trouble after his snide comments about love are broadcast at a tech convention. To rehabilitate his image he is persuaded to try an old-school match making ser I truly enjoy this author's work. To rehabilitate his image he is persuaded to try an old-school match making service that is owned by Gemma's nonna.
Gemma has recently been fired and her grandmother guilts her into taking the meeting with Tanner. What transpires is the two of them convince themselves they have a friends with benefits relationship and they ignore their developing feelings. As they find themselves more and more committed to each other, they must face forces trying to drive them apart. Will they finally admit their love?
Will they have their happily ever after? This book kept me engaged and I highly recommend it. Jun 13, Maddy rated it it was amazing. This is a book that I could not put down! Enter Gemma, on what was one of the worst days of her life, and her wacky, matchmaker Nonna, and Tanner, a rich tech genius, who may have just ruined his own reputation and possibly his company.
Tanner begrudgingly hires the matchmaking company that Nonna owes to try to fix his reputation about love. Nonna pawns the meeting off on Gemma. The rest This is a book that I could not put down! Will they get together? Will they admit their feelings for each other? Will Tanner fix his reputation and save his company? Will Tanner and Gemma be a match made in heaven?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great romance with the perfect amount of steam and chemistry!!
Jun 13, Kathi rated it it was amazing. Tanner is a software millionaire due to the success of his dating app.
But this one, oh boy, this one was different. Books by Melody Anne. I really enjoyed reading this book and catching up with the rest of the Crane family and I liked how they supported Eli through his issues, without overwhelming him. Isabella Sawyer needs the Cranes' business to boost her employment agency's profile and after Eli Crane chased off the eleventh assistant she sent him, it's time for her to handle this by herself. Eli was developed so thoroughly that I could feel my heart both hurt and smile for him. Forever changed by war, now discharged from the military, he is reluctantly working for his families business. I love his character growth throughout this book as he dealt with his personal issues.
Problem number two; he was taped voicing his disbelief in love. Mitigating the negative backlash involves hiring a local matchmaker to dunk Tanner back in the dating pool. Love, even more the execution. The characters come alive here. Gemma loses her job, so assists her grandmother who is a hoot in he Perfect Mix of Chemistry, Humor, Intrigue and Romance!!
Gemma loses her job, so assists her grandmother who is a hoot in her matchmaking business. Scintillating with touches of humor and ultimately intrigue — this story is pure entertainment and a pleasure to read. Jun 12, Jaime Reynolds rated it it was amazing. This was a great story. Ironically at the same time is creator of a love app. Gemma just got out of a lackluster relationship, lost her job and car. Unfortunately Tanner becomes her first client to try and help his tarnished image.
I have never used a dating app so I can only imagine the dates people wind up with or situations in which they find themselves. I cau This was a great story. I caught myself laughing and getting frustrated or angry with the characters and their predicaments. It was also as though I was in the moment. Tanner and Gemma both deserve a second chance at love and are perfect for one another as long as they can get over their pasts and let one another in. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Jun 15, Tarah Didley rated it really liked it. What do you get when you have two people who feel love should happen on its own without any help of an app or someone setting you up. Gemma ends up losing her job, and starts working with Nona who I love dearly. She wants things in life and wants to help Nona get her wish to live close to her friends, but in order to do that she needs to work.
Tanner owns his own matchmaking app but when his loose mouth gets him into trouble, his friend jasper convinces him he needs to find love and open up to love. Gemma and Tanner are awesome and perfect for each other. You will never be more entertained than you are with these two! Jun 13, Chris Bennett rated it it was amazing. I absolutely loved this book and was hooked from beginning to end.
Blake manages to write with humour and intensity at the same time. The story highlights love, humour, fun, jealousy and betrayal. She has written some awesome characters. Most are wonderful and a few are horrid, but they are all interesting and integral to the book. Her characters grow and develop to ensure that the story is logical while remaining intriguing.
I might be a little biased because Jessica Blake is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I received an ARC for this book in exchange of an honest review. Jun 11, J Stryker rated it it was amazing. I love books by Jessica Blake. Claiming My Soulmate is the second book by Ms. Blake that I have read and loved. Her books are witty, warm, and loving. Gemma has a crazy, funny, and loving grandmother, Nonna, who is a matchmaker.
Nonna talks Gemma into helping her run the business until she can find another PR job. Along the way, Tanner finds I love books by Jessica Blake. Along the way, Tanner finds a need of some good PR and ends up contracting the services of a matchmaker. Of course, Gemma and Tanner hit it off right away and with the help of Nonna, find their way to true love.
A lot of crazy and funny things happen along the way, which makes for a wonderful and funny story. If you like wacky and crazy stories about true love, you must read this book. Jun 13, Andrea Thompson rated it it was amazing Shelves: I was very excited to be given the opportunity to read an ARC of this story. I am new to Jessica Blake and was not sure what I should expect. I was so very pleasantly surprised!
This lighthearted romance is well crafted in a very real world with a wonderful cast of characters. Even the supporting ones are well done and full of life. Tanner needs some help recovering from imploding his image and brand as the creator of a very popular dating app after he is overheard declaring some very unbecoming I was very excited to be given the opportunity to read an ARC of this story. Tanner needs some help recovering from imploding his image and brand as the creator of a very popular dating app after he is overheard declaring some very unbecoming things about love and the app's users.
Gemma is suffering one disaster after another in her life and is recruited by her hilarious professional matchmaker Nonna to help Tanner as a client. Sparks fly, and not always is a good way! Definitely recommend this read if you need a fun romance! Its all about the Who needs an app if one didn't believe in the magic of love? Tanner developed an app where one can be matched with those who would be their ideal love and it has made him millions. Problem is what happens if you the developer is overheard saying disparaging things about those who believe in this app after you've seconds ago glorified it to those millions?
One thing for sure Tanner needs to do something and fast. He is referred to a matchmaker. He doesn't believe it Its all about the He doesn't believe it'll work and Gemma doing her grandmother a favour takes on the project believing likewise but yet they reckoned without chemistry. Read the journey, the laughter, the confusion, even the frenetic behaviour of the joyful geriatrics who get involved. Jun 12, Rose Boniello rated it really liked it. Got an ARC and I am so excited to have read this early-- what a fun, sweet, bumpy ride!
When word gets out his company is in trouble and it is decided he should start dating to show he really does believe in love. When he gets set up with Gemma, he enjoys her banter, creativity and sass. As we go through their journey, we see them fallin Got an ARC and I am so excited to have read this early-- what a fun, sweet, bumpy ride! As we go through their journey, we see them falling in love, along with a great cast of characters, especially Nonna!! Seeing Tanner fall in love with Nonna too is just adorable, especially when he redesigns a new app with her in mind!
Sweet but rushed ending. Wow, what a story! Absolutely loved the story about Tanner a billionaire app maker and his match maker, Gemma. It starts with Tanner going off on love while not knowing his Mic is still on after an interview. He's marketing a love match app so this looks bad. So to prove to his friend and PR man Jasper that he's not completely loveless he decides to go through with a match making service of a dear friend Jasper's grandmother knows.
Josie is Gemma's grandmother and has run this business for decades. While unemployed Josie puts Gemma to work and gives her Tanner's case. Oh, the fun that follows. Such an awesome story. Love all that they go through and the love making is magical. Thank you Jessica Blake for such a great story. Eager to read more of your books. Jun 12, Nora Flood-Houston rated it it was amazing. Have you ever read a book that you made you smile throughout and the ending just gives you good feelings, this is the book.
Her first client is Tanner a app developer and owner of his own company. So h Have you ever read a book that you made you smile throughout and the ending just gives you good feelings, this is the book. This book is a keeper , one to read again. I loved every word! I obtained an arc and left a honest review of this fantastic book. Jun 16, Cathy rated it it was amazing. The blurb had me intrigued and hooked.
This book had so many surprising factors to the storyline it had me smiling and shivering with excitement. She is one smart and sneaky, lovable character. It checks off everything in a romance story that you can see it come to life in front of you. The secondary characters were just as memorable as the main characters. Jasper, and Nonna and her friends were funny and supportive.
I highly recommend this treasure for a very blissful escape. Jun 14, Anna rated it it was amazing. Let go and let Love Wow Jessica has done it again. I am honored to have been given an ARC copy and will leave my honest review. This story had me from the very beginning. He even expresses his feelings after a presentation he makes one day. His words were enough to damage the image of his company and now he is looking for a way to rebuild what he has torn down.
Gemma is b Let go and let Love Wow Jessica has done it again. Gemma is beautiful and spunky and will definitely keep you on your toes. She also has suffered a heartbreaking loss at love. Loved Nonna she really made the story come to life and kept me smiling. This book is one to keep to read again and again. Matchmaker make me a match Claiming My Soulmate Loved the way this book took technology and old fashioned matchmaking to new heights. Tanner was swoon worthy from the start and Gemma was so down to earth and so real. Their story involved all the plot twists humor, corporate espionage, love, fate, jealousy and happiness.
The other characters were lovable Nonna, Jasper and of course the four footed George Clooney all provided a great backdrop to the story. Jessica once again delivered a great rea Matchmaker make me a match Claiming My Soulmate Loved the way this book took technology and old fashioned matchmaking to new heights. Eli's family, however, is equally determined to see him healed and back involved in the family's business as its Chief Operating Officer.
The problem is Eli has no desire to let them in to his life again or play any role in the company. So when his family insists on hiring him personal assistants to help in this endeavor, he conveniently finds a way to scare them away. Ten personal assistants later, he's definitely winning this battle.
What Eli, however, did not count on was Isabella Sawyer. Isabella has her own fair share of family strife. To her parent's and her former boyfriend's great dismay, she refuses to take a role in her family business. Instead what inspires her is her own business venture which she started from scratch: And with Eli's track record, her business is bound to end up that way unless she takes drastic measures.
So to save her business, she decides to take on the clandestine role of Eli's next assistant. Of course this leads to a cosmic battle of wills, as Eli tries everything possible to convince Isabella to quit while Isabella in turn digs in her heals and refuses to leave. Even more dangerous is their undeniable attraction--one that neither can afford to indulge in, but also can't seem to stop. Can their possibly be a HEA under the circumstances? Sasha Dunbrooke does a splendid job with the narration.
Dunbrooke handles the basics with ease. For example, she produces clearly distinguishable and genuine gender sounding voices for each of Eli and Isabella. She also does this for a number of the secondary characters, though I must admit that Eli's brothers were a tad bit difficult to distinguish based solely on their voice. That said, as these parts were few and far between, it really didn't have much of an effect on my enjoyment of the audiobook. Perhaps what I loved the best about Ms.
Dunbrooke's narration, however, was her ability to perfectly time her delivery of the witty and funny dialogues between Eli and Isabella. Particularly in the beginning, when tempers flared hot and their encounters were inevitably explosive, Ms. Dunbrooke always delivered the lines with perfect timing causing me to chuckle as I was listening to the story.
Moreover, my heart really went out to Eli, an athletic and strong hero, who due to his injuries had to learn how to do everything again from the physical tasks such as walking up stairs and even being with a woman to the emotional ones of allowing his heart to be open to friends and a significant other again. Dunbrooke's narration really brought the whole story to life for me. Review copy provided for review purposes. Feb 17, Anna's Herding Cats rated it really liked it Shelves: Eli is like my catnip.
A growly, surly, Marine trying to figure out his life now that he's back home. I wanted to rub all over him. Which is a problem for Isa since she runs the agency and has run out of assistants to send him. He can be a total punk ass little shit but damn if he didn't win my heart. He has so much on his plate that I totally got it. He's dealing with survivors guilt, with learning to live life as an amputee, figuring out where he fits in now that he can't do his job as a Marine. But under all of it there's a lot of sweet, too. And Isa was a fun heroine. The woman has a spine of steel, doesn't back down to a challenge and is straight forward even when dealing with sensitive subjects like his missing leg.
I loved that she didn't shy away from his bad attitude early on and how much she did to try to help him through his struggles. I got a smidge frustrated with her towards the end but she managed to figure herself out before I got too annoyed. They lit up a room. Totally one of those couples where you can just see the heat radiating off of them when they're near each other. Their dynamic was fantastic, the sex scenes sensual and a little of a challenge since he's an amputee and missing a leg. I wanted just a little more done with that but did really like how it was handled as well.
I loved seeing both of them grow and get over their hang ups, seeing them deal with their work lives, family and friends and just slowly figuring out what they were doing. Exactly what I expect from Lemmon. Sexy, sensual, emotionally charged. With one seriously lickable hero. Calling a Marine a soldier. I've been waiting for this book to come out for so long, when I read the summary for it I knew it was going to be a winner for me. Since then he has been closed off and holed up in his house going through PA's like crazy. He can't seem to keep one for the life of him until Isabella comes along.
She decides to take this task upon herself and be Eli's PA for the sake of her company. Her confidence and fierceness immediately captivates Eli in a way that he hasn't felt since before his accident. The end is so sweet and seeing all of the couples from this series together is so heartwarming. I would read book after book about these two if it were possible! The Bastard Billionaire is finally here After firing ten PAs, it was time for Isabella Sawyer - the owner of Sable Concierge - to step in and see what all the fuss was about.
Eli Crane tested all her patience with how he treated her employees. It was time someone called him on his bullshit and that someone would be none but her. Leaving the family business and the family chosen husband to be, Isa worked 5 Hot Marine stars! Leaving the family business and the family chosen husband to be, Isa worked hard to secure her own company and make it a success. She won't let an angry moody marine destroy her work. She would teach him how to control his temper Firing PA after PA was his way at showing his family that as far as Crane business was concerned, he was a failure.
But when PA number 11 came swaying with her killing body, barely there clothes and distracting stilettos, he knew that he was in big trouble. That son of a bitch. He had to have known what he was doing when he had them send this assistant in particular. Eli shook his head. Eli Crane is about to take both a blow to his ego and a journey to Sable heaven. Reading the whole series was a blast, a moment from heaven where you can curl and enjoy the delice these characters would offer. Illustrations are from the author's pinterest page and website.
View all 9 comments. Mar 09, Jessica Alcazar rated it liked it Shelves: The Bastard Billionaire turned out to be better than I could have expected. Not only does he have physical scars from his tours with the military, but emotional ones as well. But the story didn't focus or zero in in on this. No, the story focused on Eli and Isa's journe The Bastard Billionaire turned out to be better than I could have expected. No, the story focused on Eli and Isa's journey. But she also didn't dismiss it or gloss over it.
It was dealt with. Now lets talk about these two crazy kids LOL I loved their characters hard. Their banter was addictive. They had chemistry and spark from the moment they met. I was sucked into this story quickly by them. Eli was developed so thoroughly that I could feel my heart both hurt and smile for him.
And Isa was such a great match for him. She was fierce and independent and just plain strong! They were just perfect: I've enjoyed the story of these three brothers immensely. Each one of their stories can be read on their own, but together you not only get really good love stories, but also a very powerful family read. What a wonderful, sexy heartfelt story!
Excellent addition to the series! Eli is just so wounded, and I don't mean from his missing leg. He's taken so much on his shoulders and has so many walls up. It made him super grumpy but somehow sweet at the same time. I couldn't wait to watch his barriers break down and for him to start to heal. I loved Isabella and her strength. She was such a What a wonderful, sexy heartfelt story! She was such a strong, in charge character and I really loved how grounded she was. Eli and Isa together were awesome. They had a great chemistry happening and I loved watching it build and ignite.
I got choked up several times. Those walls though, they were killers and they made for some ups and downs in he and Isa's relationship. Even though I understood his pain and struggles, I didn't always like his actions and wanted to smack him on several occasions. I really enjoyed the build not only to their relationship, but to Eli's epiphany as well. The Crane brothers are so fun and I love their good natured ribbing with one another and Merina and Rachel as well. When they got together it created some fun, light moments which where needed.
I also love that there dad Alex, Big Crane, and the fact that he finally got some closure for his story that has been lightly talked about since book one. Really great story with a good pace. I loved the details and the build. A nice amount of drama and a lot of emotion. While I did enjoy their push and pull for the most part, by the end I was more than ready for them both to get it together.
The ending was sweet but wrapped up a little to nicely for me, it was still a great HEA though. I love the feeling of peace I got after reading this and am so happy for the closure that Eli got. Isa is the perfect match for him. I love this series and I'm going to miss it. Great characters and a fantastic family, this series is a must read. Complimentary copy received for honest review. She wanted to start her own personal assistant company and she went for it, even if it meant going against everything her parents wanted for her.
This journey made me like Isabella from the start, because it showed me she was a woman willing to work hard to make her dream come true instead of conforming to what other people thought her life should be like. Reese Crane, the main character in the first book and the brother of Eli Crane, a man her employees referred to as a monster, among other things. Eli Crane is an ex-Marine discharged after an explosion left him injured and killed two of his friends. He lost one of his legs and is learning how to adapt to his new life now. The problem is Isabella has already sent every employee she could to help Eli, and they all come back crying.
So the only solution she can come up with is to do the job herself. The obstacles to their romance are also well-portrayed, and I enjoyed how once again Jessica Lemmon managed to make their inner battles bigger and more powerful than any outside obstacle. This way, we get to see these characters grow and learn how to deal with their feelings. This is actually the main theme for Eli: His journey is well-developed and makes sense given everything he went through.
Besides, having him develop a charity and work on a project that would impact so many lives also helped. I also thought Jessica Lemmon was respectable on her approach to Eli's disabilty, which is always nice to see. I also enjoyed seeing Merina and Reese and Tag and Rachel, the couples from the previous books. I loved seeing them all happy and united. After reading the three books, I still think The Billionaire Next Door book 2 was the best of them, but The Bastard Billionaire felt like the perfect conclusion to this series.
The Bastard Billionaire is the third and final book in this series. I have enjoyed my time with all three Crane brothers but there is something about Eli that he has replaced Reese as my No1 Crane guy sorry Reese. Eli wants to be le The Bastard Billionaire is the third and final book in this series. Will Eli be brave enough to risk his heart and take a chance on love with Isa? I loved these two together they are my favourite couple from this series.
It was great catching up with the rest of the gang as well and I loved the brotherly banter. My only disappointment is with this being the final book there was no epilogue I would have loved knowing what happens a few years on. This is the first series I have read by Jessica Lemmon and I will be definelty be reading more of her books in the future. I have been looking forward to this book since the first time Eli was mentioned and it was worth the wait.
Eli Crane planned on being career military but that plan was cut short abruptly when an explosion left him injured and took the lives of his friends and he's finding it hard to fall into Plan B - life as the COO of Crane Hotels. Surly, snarly and grumpy, Eli just wants to be left alone and has run off every assistant sent his way. But he's about to meet his match.
Isabella Sawyer needs the Cranes' business to boost her employment agency's profile and after Eli Crane chased off the eleventh assistant she sent him, it's time for her to handle this by herself. And Isabella is nothing but determined to save her fledgling company even if it means bearding the lion in his den. But nothing prepares Eli and Isabella for the sparks that fly between them. Isabella is intriguing in a lot of ways to Eli and brings his libido roaring back to life. After her last relationship fizzled out, Isabella avoided the dating scene and focused all her energy on her business, so having her new albeit temporary boss light that fire in her is complicated, to say the least.
She's beautiful and wields her looks like a weapon, sexy, passionate, smart and independent. Eli is a very interesting character. Under the difficult exterior lay a really giving heart, which was also wounded by the loss of his friends and survivor's guilt. Say what you will, but as their relationship goes from professional to personal they find themselves developing major feelings for each other, which bring up hidden emotional issues which they'll need to overcome for a chance at happiness and a future. Eli's struggles to open up in his relationships seem to predate his injury but his feelings of inadequacy have made it even harder for him to completely open himself up to anyone and it made my heart hurt for him.
Isabella has found herself shortchanged emotionally multiple times by her parents and her ex and nothing but a full-throated declaration of love from Eli would do for her this time. I really enjoyed reading this book and catching up with the rest of the Crane family and I liked how they supported Eli through his issues, without overwhelming him. I am so glad I got the chance to read this series and I highly recommend it. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster. Like my page on Facebook. Feb 27, Laura rated it it was amazing. I fell for Eli when you meet him in the previous book, and he made me teary then. And that continues in his book. His pain, the things he is learning to deal with, his fear that he will not measure up. It was handled so well, it was so believable that you can't help but fall for him. Add in the fact that he is hot, and rich and, well, the women are lining up behind me, please.
Eli and Isabella were wonderful together. I loved that she gave as good as she got. I love that she understood him. There is a scene involving a shirt and some buttons I don't want to spoil it that is both emotional and erotic at the same time. That really sums up the book If you can get through the book without falling for Eli, read it again, you missed something.
And I would hate for that to happen. Jessica Lemmon is a favorite of mine. I always enjoy her writing, her stories and most importantly, her characters. And, this story revolves around Eli, and who he is, so she is the perfect author to write it This is the 3rd book about the 3 brothers, and while it is a standalone, I am going to recommend you read the others first they are great too, so no issues with that as Eli's story is the most emotional of the 3, in my opinion, and the depth of the relationship is stronger when you have met all 3 brothers.
It's hard to talk about this book without spoiling it, so I am going to leave it at this I recommend it, you should read it. You will be glad you did. Feb 27, Julie rated it it was amazing Shelves: Don't miss the giveaway listed on my blog! Link at the bottom! I've read quite a few books by Jessica Lemmon and they never cease to just amaze me. I've been lucky enough to read this entire series and not once, has Lemmon let me down! Her writing style is kind of flawless in my mind. This one was no exception.
Of all three books, this one made me nervous to think Don't miss the giveaway listed on my blog! Of all three books, this one made me nervous to think about reading. The only reason for that was the main character, Eli. Eli was injured while he was with his Marines overseas. I just knew that this one would be tough to swallow at times because of the severity of his injuries, his feelings and just how Eli, as a character, was presented in previous books.
This dude makes it very clear that he wants to be left alone. While it's never said I don't believe I sped through this one , he's got a mad case of survivor's guilt and it completely consumes this poor man. I thought that I would have a difficult time connecting with Eli but he is ornery as hell and for some reason, I just love that! Plus, he's protective and dashingly handsome. Neither of those things is in any way bad. Once again, Lemmon wrote some fantastic chemistry for Eli and Isabella. I really want to say something else but I don't want to ruin it!!!
All in all, I think that this might be my favorite of the series. There was so much buildup about Eli in the previous two books that you really don't know what you're going to get when you crack the spine on this one. It is so much more than I had hoped it would be. It's a series that I'll think about in the future and I'll definitely read again.
Lemmon is my author hero. This lady knows how to keep a reader entertained. Feb 24, Erin Kelly rated it really liked it. Love the combination of the tattoos and the suit! But, even though it wasn't entirely what I expected, I was not disappointed. The Story- Eli was in the military and had a traumatic experience where he lost a leg and two friends. His wealthy family is desperate for him "The Bastard Billionaire" is my first book by Jessica Lemmon, and I have to admit that I totally selected this book based on the cover. So, he acts like an absolute asshole to every assistant that is sent his way.
Apparently his "meanness" has sent many an assistant away, crying. Who are these weak women than can't handle a bit of a jerk? Isabella happens to own the agency sending the assistants, and now she is planning on going in herself, pretending to be an assistant, in order to keep their business and smooth relations until she can replace herself with a viable option.
Eli acts like a jerk; she takes none of his crap. My Thoughts- The main reason I actually enjoyed this book despite the predictable plot and jerk hero is the heroine, Isabella. She is smart, self-assured, beautiful, and never whiny. Isabella is confident, and gives us someone to root for.
Parts of this book dragged for me; it felt like a similar conflict kept arising between the two, only to be resolved, then to come back later. There are some excellent moments, though, that make this book thoroughly enjoyable. The "hot" scenes are both realistic and completely steamy at the same time: And, our hero redeems himself fully in several critical scenes involving Isabella's past and insecurities. The Bottom Line- The billionaire aspect of this book is practically non-existent, which is a good thing to me. Eli doesn't act like a jerk because he's a billionaire; that actually barely registers in his life.
He has some real issues to work through. Isabella is an excellent character: I recommend this book for fans of contemporary with strong female characters and damaged men. Coffee Dates with The Bastard Billionaire Eli is angry, uncertain and feeling survivor's guilt. Send personal assistants to him. Determined to protect her companies reputation, Isabella decides to pose as one of her staff and take the job. Their first encounter has me giddy as once again Lemmon pulled me into the story.
I love her characters and while she claims to write about bad boys all are truly good guys beneath the grumbles and gruff. Do you love wicked banter, snark and sizzling sparks surrounding your hero and heroine? You are going to love the interaction between these two. While it is complicated by missed signals and Eli's personal struggles the reader will find themselves laughing out loud and counting down the pages to the inevitable.
The Crane brother's looking to aid their brother offered Eli word of wisdom that provided humor. This third date brings misunderstanding, confusion and pushes Eli. Despite the steps he has made going forward, we have to bare witness to some setbacks. Even Isabella makes some mistakes, but I like how strong she is and her stance on never settling. We spend some time with the Crane clan as Eli find himself. All in all, this was a fantastic last date with moments that made me melt and swoon. Copy provided by publisher This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer Absolutely loved it and I'm so glad I've found a new favorite author!
Full review to come this week with my turn on the blog tour! Jan 31, Rowena rated it really liked it Shelves: The Bastard Billionaire follows the last of the Crane brothers on that journey to his happy ending. Eli Crane served in the Marine corps until an explosion sidelined him and killed his friends. The chemistry between Eli and Isa was pretty intense right from the very beginning.
He fought that attraction at every turn but fate has a way of shoving you on your ass to make you sit up and take notice. So yeah, I enjoyed this story a lot. Isa was a strong heroine who worked hard and loved harder. My heart hurt and then rejoiced for her because she was pretty awesome. Together, they were fantastic. They were a fun bunch in the other books and it was great to see more of the same from them in this one.
This job had become like monitoring a wild animal. Feed it, stay out of its way, and try not to disrupt its normal pattern. She wore that dress like she was doing it a service. Jessica Lemmon has created an interesting and intriguing family of smart, sexy, stubborn, and complicated alpha males with far too much money and sex appeal to be legal. I enjoyed watching each and every one of these obstinate men lose their minds and hearts to a feisty, smart, and witty woman. I adore strong and sassy female characters and I loved everything about Isabelle, she could hold her own and best any of the Crane boys with her clever observations and sharp wit, and enjoy the challenge while doing so.
The storyline and writing were relevant, insightful, emotive, steamy, and frequently amusing with clever and snappy banter and Ms. Dec 04, Brandy Thornton rated it it was amazing. I am not one to pick a favorite book out of a series. Mainly because I love all the characters equally.
But Jessica Lemmon killed me with Eli. And I so am breaking my rule and saying this is my favorite in the series. Eli Crane is such a moody SOB. He is a wounded vet who is hiding in his own darkness. He is afraid to open himself up to caring for anyone because he thinks he's jinxed.
He has managed to push away ten personal assistants that his brother Reese has sent to help him with Crane hotel I am not one to pick a favorite book out of a series. He has managed to push away ten personal assistants that his brother Reese has sent to help him with Crane hotel business. Isabella is the owner of the Concierge company that Eli has sent ten assistants away from. She is determined to get the Cranes seal of approval to drum up more business. And she refuses to let the Monster known as Eli stop her.
Eli and Isabella are both stubborn and love a challenge. So right there you know the banter between them is going to be epic. He tries everything to push her buttons and push her away. But that just brings out her stubborn even more. And with that it builds the sexual tension between the two. This story was one of humor, of chemistry, of healing. It shined a light on the struggles of our wounded vets who have been lost a limb or the families of the ones who lost their loved ones. It's makes you see just how much we can take for granted. I would love to give this one more than five stars.
It deserves so many more. View all 3 comments. Jan 15, Dawn rated it it was amazing. A great story about loss and love, guilt and forgiveness, loyalty and courage. Eli Crane came home from the war with the loss of his close friends and his leg. He is angry and passed and doesn't want to be around anyone! Isabella is Sable's Conceierge and she needs the Crane business to open the doors to other companies. That's hard to do when Eli Crane is firing everyone she sends over to him. After number nine she has no choice but to go in there herself and handle Mr.
Crane before turning him over to someone else. Eli doesn't have a clue what to expect when he receives PA number ten but a brave, strong willed woman who stands up to him and hands it right back at him in high heeled shoes is not it. Nevertheless, she sparks some interest in Eli and that just makes him more angry. When the relationship becomes more and more tense between them they take the next step but will it be enough this time? Eli has not been known for his relationship commitments.
Will she run from the new him? I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Alright, this one was surprisingly good. Lately I am getting impressed by books I don't expect it at all Because, seriously, the billionaire millionaire trope is boring me to hell and back.
Don't get me wrong, there are quite a few hot, super rich book boyfriends I have, but generally they don't do much for me. But this one, oh boy, this one was different. First of all, Beast Crane doesn't sho Alright, this one was surprisingly good. First of all, Beast Crane doesn't show it off, he is not rubbing your nose into it with every fart he makes, it is just part of his life. And secondly, he is not the typically overconvident, cocky jerk who normally reign the romance center. Most of them annoy-amuse me but they rarely leave an impression. Eli did with me. Because he does have flaws and insecurities and there is a reason behind them.
He is not the arrogant jack ass he perhaps once was, he is damaged and this damage kinda rules his whole life. There are a few more things I enjoyed here, the witty banter in the beginning entertained me to no end, the rather strong personality of the heroine and the beauty and the beast aspect.
Of course there also were a few things I didn't like - the witty banter stopped at some point of the book and I would have loved to see even more of it. A scene was thrown into the story that didn't fit at all and was then practically neglected through the rest of the book.
The character, especially the side characters, promised more potential and would have loved to see this worked out. And last but not least the drama the author created seemed really forced sometimes and didn't feel relatable to me. But all in all I was positively surprised and I really enjoyed this read. Jan 17, Three Chicks rated it really liked it. Review by Trinette Dungee Eli Crane is trying to find his place in the world, he once knew exactly who he was, what he was and what his purpose was in life; he was a Marine who protected and served.
Her employment agency is flourishing and this latest contract with Crane Hotels could really get her own the map; except for Eli Crane who keeps running the assistants she sends away with his less than welcoming attitude. This book was nothing like I thought it would be! Isabella very determined to say the least.
She gave as well as Eli, for every insult he hurled she had a snarky come back. When he used is injury as an excuse she pretty much ignored him. But Eli Crane was anything but a beast or a bastard. In a bad mood…yes; grumpy…most definitely; but beastly…not at all. OMG, he was a freaking teddy bear. And believe it or not, Mr. Eli Crane was a relationship type guy.
Not just towards Isabella but towards his family. He even expressed his hurt over a previously failed relationship. Sep 01, Francoise rated it really liked it Shelves: Jessica Lemmon has a knack for creating vibrant characters and sucking the reader in her story, with her punchy dialogues and effortless storytelling. With this book, the third one in her Billionaire Bad Boys series, she has once again delivered a delightful story with a perfect balance between humor, emotions and chemistry.
This romance between a grumpy billionaire and a sassy businesswoman, definitely hits all the right notes! His efforts have been crowned with success, since Eli makes a good show of being a total jerk. That is, until Isa Sawyer accepts to step in. She enjoys teasing him. He enjoys challenging her. Their battle of wits was laugh-out-loud funny! He likes others to believe he is a grouchy jackass but she sees through his show.
I loved the realistic way their relationship progressed from cautious friendship to much deeper feelings. I really enjoyed this story of homecoming and new beginnings. This book can be read as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading the whole series. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley. Aug 31, juviasft rated it it was ok Shelves: I'm not sure exactly how I feel about this book, I liked it enough to finish reading it but I'm probably going to forget all about it in a month or so just like it happened with the other two in the series.
I liked Eli and I was on his side when he asked for some time to figure things out and I also liked Isa I don't know how you get from Isabella to Sable, her nickname yet as a strong character and it was good that she realized her mistake and tried to fix it. The ending was so cheesy tho. The sex was hot. All in all, meh. Mar 09, Jennifer Pierson rated it it was amazing.
Now that I got all of my drooling out of the way, I'll get to it. Eli Crane was left injured after an explosion that sent him home honorably discharged from the Marines. Now all he wants is to be left alone, but his brothers aren't having any of that, as they insist he take a greater role in the family business.
He's had ten personal assistants which he sent packing as soon as he could. That is until the beautiful, Isabella Sawyer came through the door to help save her employment agency from losing Eli Crane's business, so she takes on the PA position herself. Let the fun begin! Each brother's story has me saying this one is my favorite, so to go along with my tradition, Eli is my favorite now. Jessica Lemmon's super talented writing style captured my full attention once again, and I couldn't put it down until the very last page, which left me wanting MORE!
Eli is a bit harder than his brother's before him, but still, I couldn't resist this tortured soul at all. Neither could Isabella, as their flammable chemistry should have come with a warning, as it threatened to take out anyone nearby. Add in a few f-bomb dropping worthy twists, and some well placed humor.
Eli Crane has run off way too many personal assistants, wearing his grouchy self as armour and badge as he refuses to get back into the family business despite his family's interference. Finally meeting his match In Isabella Sawyer, a take-no-nonsense type of woman who whips him into shape, it isn't long before he starts thinking about life beyond his disability and rediscovering the man he used to be.
The plot itself isn't entirely unexpected, with the prerequisite build-up, some pushing and pul Eli Crane has run off way too many personal assistants, wearing his grouchy self as armour and badge as he refuses to get back into the family business despite his family's interference. The plot itself isn't entirely unexpected, with the prerequisite build-up, some pushing and pulling before the dramatic but perhaps unnecessary conflict before the resolution.
But I think what really stayed with me was how well Jessica Lemmon writes, without purple prose and without falling into the end where the story becomes too simplistic, particularly so when it comes to the subject of PTSD, survivor guilt and the aftermath of vets who return from war. Both Eli and Isabella are generally likeable though not without their faults, yet I think I appreciated how Lemmon didn't shy away from the difficulty that Eli faced and how upfront Isabella was - mostly, up until the ending episode when she did something stupid - with him.
Overall, it's a decent read, but I find myself really getting into the author's personal writing style more than anything else. I hadn't read the previous books, but that didn't matter for these two. I will definitely be picking up the rest of this series.
At the end, the body count is high, but Seth emerges as hero in a move that surprises him as much as the audience watching.
The ultimate bad boy anti-hero, am I right? Yet something about his sinister actions is so tempting. She overheard him calling her fat! In a brilliant turn of events, Tate completely falls for Lauren during the course of the book, eating all of his early assumptions and falling helplessly in love with her. Watching him step seamlessly into the hero role was incredible. Not only is our hero litearlly a beast, but he also has a heart of solid gold. Like another hero I know, Eli Crane, Beast simply needs a strong heroine who will both stand up to him—and stand up for him.
Mar 05, books are love rated it really liked it. You get ripples of who he is throughout so its like you jump on those snippets like a dog with a bone. He is kind and thoughtful but also broody and surly. He is dealing with so much and trying to navigate his way back from where he was. He harbors guilt over what received in exchange for a honest review Eli is complicated. He harbors guilt over what happened to fellow brothers in arms and it eats away at him. So much so that he does halt his life it seems.
He is though through the charity he is setting up to help others like him and through Isabella. I had so much fun reading the banter between Isabella and Eli. That was a hoot. This burly man truly wanting to be alone but not. He felt guilt over his family hovering over him actually more like he loves them but needs space. He needs time to breathe and find his way.
Isabella is smart, fun, stubborn and just what Eli needs. The attraction between them wow just wow. These two burn holes in the kindle with their tension and heat. She sees him and treats him like she would anyone else that was acting like he was. Watching these two is hot and entertaining. Heartbreaking because of the loneliness and pain he feels and heartwarming because of the love and protectiveness there. Each character has a distinct personality that when together they give endearing and fun moments. Isabella and Eli fit together perfectly. He shows her love, respect and equality.
She shows him it is okay to move on and be who you are. We also get a glimpse on how the man deals with survivors guilt but also gets the courage to face his fears and past so he can move on and forgive himself but also let the love of a woman in.