Great contemporary YA novel. It was also extremely enjoyable reading a summer-esque novel with a character you were able to actually relate to, as well as with a plot line that wasn't one note. There was the element of taking risks and stepping out of comfort zones with the to-do list, meeting people you "normally" wouldn't, making memorable moments, a little bit of love, and even nontraditional family time was sprinkled in there. I was able to read this book within a day, making it a very quick and carefree read. I would definitely recommend this book if you (1) are in a reading slump (2) need a feel-good book (3) want a "summer" read, if its winter and cold and dreary and you need a pick me up (like me). Only thing I wasn't digging about the book was the ending; I could use a couple more chapters of closure, but it is what it is. Overall, I've never picked up a Morgan Matson novel, but now I can say I'm probably going to be going into a reading binge of her other novels currently out.

This book. THIS BOOK. It was superb. Currently I'm really enjoying Gayle Forman. (Recently finished If I Stay/Where She Went... in a day. Ooops) Loving her style of writing, as well as the characters she creates. I felt as if I actually related to Allyson and her whole essence, as well as her character development, I guess? A little bit of sass never hurt anyone. The scenery that was put inside my skull of Paris... Just. Wow. Great. This book is a great pick me up to get anyone out of a reading slump, or for anyone looking for a good contemporary read.

Absolutely loved Artemis and how unapologetically badass she was! She was a great fit for the Duke, and those morning walks in the forest with the doggo's was really freaking sweet! This book had the angst, had some mystery, a Duke trying to avenge his parent's murder, and it kept me entertained! The romance was steamy, the plot was entertaining and didn't get in the way or distract too much, and I loved seeing such a strong heroine.

Spoiler

The ending was a little wishy washy with Maximus stating he could NEVER marry her, based on her status and mad brother, but after her almost death he flipped the switch? This man who is always mature, overthinking and going through all of the scenarios for the sake of love threw his personality and logic out the window? I mean, i'm happy for them, but the wrapping up everything in a neat tidy bow felt hollow. The bad guy was killed miraculously, and everyone ended up happily ever after? Ok, sounds good. Still an enjoyable read!

3.5/5 stars.

Sebastian is a rake after my own heart! He wasn't fooling anyone with trying to play things off like he wasn't in love with our shy little Evie. He took the time to let her finish her sentences and stutter through them at times without getting rude or impatient with her. He took care of her, held off on the coitus to prove himself to her, and she generally brought out a better side to him! Love seeing that character development!

3.5/5 stars.

I love Lorenzo Gambini. Saying it now and for forever. I loved his sarcasm, how psycho this man was, and how unapologetic he was. I wouldn't mind having this psychopath hanging out with me. Him and Morgan were a good fit for each other, and I liked how they respected each other for their flaws and strengths and while also being each other's person.

I love him being an asshole to everyone, including Morgan, but also letting her in his head and heart a bit. While not getting cheesy or soft. I'm here for it. I thought their relationship or whatever the hell it was grew into trust and understanding. I liked that he was sex positive, didn't ever try to shame Morgan for her work or upbringing, and didn't degrade her at all. I'm into it!! This was a book I didn't mind being left on a cliffhanger for to be honest. Maybe mafia romance is for me?

I need more of the banter with these two, their chemistry was off the charts!

This was really fucking good. I would read books upon books about Lorenzo and Morgan. That ending had me smirking like an idiot.

Spoiler

This bad ass man, trying to give his lady the life she wanted (and deserved) and letting her go, only to have her come back to him and want him in her life with her kiddo? Waking up with the little munchkin poking him and making her breakfast and just hanging out? I ATE THAT SHIT UP. It was gold. I would read an entire two books just to get that ending and see how freaking cute Lorenzo was with his newfound family.

The character development and banter between these two was amazing. The love and respect for one another. I love Lorenzo. Send me one please!

I really wanted to love this book! Chase has always been this mysterious being coming and going, never able to be pinned down. Now we know why. Chase is miraculously a woman! Not any woman either, the sister of the duke that infamously messed up Lady Penelope's life from the first book in the series. Talk about small world.

I really enjoyed seeing how a woman, outcast from society, felt about having to reenter and the mental gymnastics Georgiana went through to be accepted by this community that was never going to love her fully. She was spoiled goods!!! How could any respectable woman have sex before marriage and have a child! The audacity!! (note: hard sarcasm here) I loved seeing how fiercely she loved her daughter. So much that she would give up her freedom, life, and happiness in order to obtain a title for her daughter so that she would be accepted in society someday. That's a badass mom for ya. I loved her costumes and how when she was Anna, notorious whore, she got no respect or acknowledgement, but as Lady G she was this goddess. Fun how status makes women more or less desirable.

I thought West was a good hero for her, as they were already business partners and that they dealt in secrets. However, he was way too much at times. It's not sexy how jealous he was of Chase. He would do something intimate with G, then leave her in an angry huff because "Chase had already been with her." I get jealousy, but treating the person you are lusting/loving after like that isn't healthy or sexy. Lady G was putting up with some bullshit there, even though she knew the reality. She was Chase, she wasn't fucking him! I thought the drama with revealing secrets at the end is what mainly kept me finishing this book. How was Chase going to get himself out of that pickle?? Hmmm?

This was not my favorite book of the series, but I did like the ending where all the business partners sat around the table and did their weekly game, BUT now with their partners in tow. That was a cute happily ever after for all of them, and I loved that West was one of the wives. Love some feminist propaganda thrown in there.