Reviewed by Lynn on
The third novel in the Billionaire Bad Boys series focuses on the middle son, Eli who's determined to do things his way. For those who read Tag Crane's story, you'll have already met his grumpy older brother.
Eli Coolidge Crane wishes his family would leave him alone. When older brother Reece arranges for a personal assistant to ease him into the unwanted role of COO for Crane Hotels, he manages to intimidate and scare off ten within a short period. Only the subsequent assistant makes it her business to let him know she won't be following her predecessors anytime soon. Something, he surprisingly respects and realises he doesn't want either.
With the reputation of her employment agency at stake, Isabelle Sawyer takes matters into her own hands when she takes over the contract with Crane Hotels and becomes Eli Crane's temporary personal assistant. With a positive attitude and determination, she relishes the challenge to smooth out the rough start to their working relationship. In doing so, she uncovers the reason for Eli's reluctance to commit to the role within his family's business and understands his need to prioritise issues from his past before he can move forward with his life.
When I first began reading Eli's story, I thought I understood his issue with Crane Hotels. Hell, I'd be irked if pressured into accepting a position I didn't want. With constant nagging, I'd put up barriers too. However, situations are not always black and white as we begin to understand what motivates the middle Crane son. When his tough protective shell chips away he reveals a secret and a desire, the latter an unexpected bonus caused by his new assistant. Eli didn't stand a chance when Isabelle catapulted herself into his life; A woman on a mission to preserve the reputation of her business with a clear view that an anti-social, rude client won't destroy what she's worked so hard to achieve. Where her predecessors had failed, Isabelle earned a respect from her new client who appreciated her forthright attitude and her ability to call him out on his appalling behaviour.
I've thoroughly enjoyed reading all the Billionaire Bad Boys novels. Each brother is distinct but all are inflicted with the same problem...a broken heart caused by grief. Each shutting off their emotions to prevent their fragile hearts breaking again. Each had their own coping mechanism and becoming a Marine was Eli's escape. Only now back home, he's more broken; not only emotionally but physically too. I love the dynamics of Eli and Isabelle's relationship. She gives him space to breathe and doesn't pity him. She's a strong, ambitious and independent woman creating a life for herself against the wishes of her parents. He's loyal and compassionate with a heart of gold.
Overall another fabulous novel by Jessica Lemmon; devoured and enjoyed. The hero and heroine are adorable. There's humour, sadness, heart-warming positivity and button popping sexiness!! What's not to like?
5 stars
***arc received courtesy of the publisher Forever Romance***
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 22 January, 2017: Finished reading
- 22 January, 2017: Reviewed