Book Blurb:
A favor for the one person he can’t refuse brings architect Romeo Alexander back to the one place he vowed never to step foot in again. But he plans to be on the first flight out of Southlake Park as soon as the auction gavel comes down. However, he doesn’t count on the beautiful woman who wins his bid or the instant, undeniable attraction between them. Romeo learned from his parent’s toxic marriage to steer clear of relationships. Yet the more he resists, the more he wants Zola…to have and to hold.
Settling down isn’t high on Zola Harrington’s list, either. The freelance photographer is having too much fun traveling to her next assignment. All that changes when she captures a sexy, brooding Adonis in her lens. From an impulsive bid and smoldering kiss to a whirlwind Las Vegas affair, Romeo is heating up her nights. Zola is tempted to say yes to a lifetime of passion…if she can convince the reluctant bachelor to truly let her into his life.
Release Date: April 4, 2019
Rating:
Sensuality:
Review:
I’ve been looking forward to the novellas in this series for a few months now. Although the books are connected via the bachelor auction, each novella is independent of each other.
This story is one of healing. Romeo is traumatized by his past and doesn’t feel anyone can love him or that he can truly love. Other than keeping up with his sister, his sole concentration is on his architectural firm. He’s keeps his guard up, because he doesn’t want to be hurt again by people who claim to love him as well as those who have always judged him.
This is the first of these novellas, that I’ve read so far, where the characters have never met. There is no history between the two or unresolved issues. Zola bids on Romeo spontaneously. She’s not even there for the bachelors, she’s taking photos to help with the advertising of the event. There is something about him that she saw, that made her want to get to know him, even if just for one date.
There was never any confusion between the characters. They both spoke their minds and were very direct with each other. They respected each other’s work and had no qualms in helping each other strive further in their respective careers. Zola’s unconditional love and support finally broke through Romeo’s shell and he was able to not only love her, but accept her love for him.
You will enjoy it.
Favorite Scene: Chapter 10
“So what’s on your agenda today?”
“Getting dressed so I can go find some breakfast in one of the hotel’s restaurants. I thought about going downtown or somewhere offsite, but I’m too hungry right now. I might explore a little later, though. What about you?”“Not much. I’ll probably put the finishing touches on an office building design.”
She shook her heard. The man never stopped working. “It’s the weekend, Romeo. You need to relax, get out and see some sights, or do something for fun. Just pitiful.”
He laughed. “I’ll see what I can do. I won’t keep you because I’ve heard your stomach when you’re hungry. It’s not pretty.”
Zola fell out laughing. “You are so wrong fro that. But that’s okay. I’m going to get you next time we see each other.”
“I’ll hold you to that. Call me later, if you’re not too relaxed and can lift the phone.”
“I’ll see what I can do,” she said, throwing his words back at him. She liked this playful side of him. He had been doing it a little more since their conversation on Friday night.
“Later, beautiful.”
Still smiling, she dressed and took the elevator down to the lobby. She stepped off and froze. Romeo stood leaning against the wall in front of her.
“I decided to take your advice and get out to see some sights.”
Zola launched herself into his arms and, ignoring everyone around them, planted her lips on his. As crazy as it seemed, in that moment, she fell. Completely.
~ The Reluctant Bid / Sheryl Lister
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