The Contract series and The Vested Interest series are two of my all-time favorites for a reason-- the characters. I fell in love with all of them and loved how they merged into one tight night family. I was content with how they ended. However, there was a part of me that wished that there was more after Sandy's book from Vested interest. It made me want that second generation. The author heard my plea for more and has created this amazing spinoff.

I wasn't sure what to expect at first, especially about how big of a role would the previous characters have in this book. It was the perfect amount and reminded me why I did not only fell in love with their stories but it also gave me a chance to focus on the story of Grace and Jaxson. These characters were special. There were several moments I remembered Grace with her daddy when she was a baby. She was special to me. Getting to see her grow into a fierce and independent woman was a delight. Add in Jaxson who was delicious was a bonus I was not expecting. I liked that she was his warmth and without it he was cold. The powerful analogy that was used in regards to his feelings.

There were steamy moments but didn't overpower the story. In this case, I was really happy about seeing them transform in a myriad of ways and grow in their connection. Jaxson screwed up but I loved that he groveled so well. I loved his quick wit when it came to Grace. Their bantering and chemistry were a delight to watch unfold.

I highly recommend it to anyone that loves reading either the Contract series or the boys of Bam. This story fits in nicely and reminds me that family isn't necessarily family just because of blood. Instead, family means home, and what a home this author has created. I am grateful for this author listening to her readers and giving us the spinoff series. I see it being even bigger and better than the originals' ( )

A delightful surprise
5 stars

I was slightly apprehensive when choosing this book - I liked the blurb but I haven’t read ANY of the Vested Interest books so I wasn’t sure how I would get on with this spin-off series. Just fine as it turns out. Better than fine, in fact. For those who *have* read the previous series, you get to see lots of previous characters and how they’re getting on. For those of us who are newbies, you’re never confused, never lost but it does make you want to go back and read up on the love stories of people we meet in this story - especially Grace’s parents, featured in The Contract.

This story pulled me in right from the beginning and before I knew it, I was hooked. The writing was so fresh and engaging - I loved the characters, felt their feelings and was part of their world.

Oh and we’re given a massive tease at the beginning. Here’s where we are now - let’s tell you how they got there. It worked so well! As Grace and Jaxson’s relationship develops it’s exciting - but then you know something’s going to change and you’re excitedly anxious. I could not read fast enough. I had to know what was going to happen and I had to know NOW!

Grace is the kind of heroine that you wish you could be, wish you were friends with and can 100% root for. She’s calm, cool, collected and knows her own mind, not afraid to stand up for herself. Yet she’s also vulnerable, goes into something with her whole heart, and definitely happy to hold a grudge! She was so relatable and so likeable - I fell head over heels for her. Plus she likes snuggly socks, cosy reading nooks and a cup of tea - the perfect heroine!

Jaxson was also my absolute jam. He’s older (only by about 10 years, 37 to her 28, I think it was), gruff, grumpy and is definitely one of those heroes that has that broken little boy inside, just needing the love of a good women. Gah - I love a sexy hero I want to both and hug and well… you know! I like how he was completely alpha but almost a little undone by Grace. And he really tried with her. Tried to be the best version of himself because he knew that was what she deserved. The Hallowe’en in the office was to die for. *swoons* And yet, of course, he makes ridiculous decisions assuming he knows best and doesn’t need to discuss it. Stupid man!

The first half of the story mostly takes place in the office but the second half we’re in Vegas, Port Albany, Toronto and hardly back in the office again at all. And it worked. We feel and learn about our couple and also about their fears and how they handle things when things go wrong. Just when you think there will be no more, another roadblock is thrown in front of our couple. It’s crazy - but in a fun and enjoyable way.

And the ending is perfection. It’s everything it needed to be and gave me more swoons and butterflies. Okay, and possibly a few delicate tears, too! Speaking of swoons, I also have to give a huge slow clap for the sexual tension and build up between our couple - and the sex scenes in general. If you like getting thrown up again a wall and kissed within an inch of your life - you’ll be happy as a clam!

Honourable mentions go to the bromance between Jaxson and Richard, and the character of Michael. So enjoyable and gave me so many laughs.

This book was such an unexpected delight for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed Ms Moreland’s writing and storytelling before, so I shouldn’t be surprised that this was such a winner for me. I devoured it and I encourage you to pick it up and do the same. Definitely 5 stars. ( )