There isn't a woman in the world who wouldn't want to get up close and personal with sexy, self-made millionaire bachelor, Max Delecoeur, except Madeleine Hainsworth. Madeleine knows all about men like Max; rich, arrogant and willing to do anything and hurt anyone to achieve profits.
Initially, Max is amused by Madeleine's dislike of him, until she accuses him of business practices that involve child labor. He demands Madeleine show him her proof and then enlists her as a guide to the silica mines of Nigeria. Together they put their lives in danger as they trek through the jungle to expose child labor abuse, but as attraction and respect draw them together, will a chance at love be worth the risk?
I've always had a romantic streak. Even as a kid, my favorite characters on TV were almost always happily married and as a twelve year old, I'd write stories about them (this was before fan fiction or the Internet were invented).
I love to read romantic suspense or mystery, but am disappointed that romances don't follow up on the happily ever after and mysteries rarely provide the sexy, romantic elements I enjoy. So I decided to write my own with the Valentine Mysteries.
When I'm not telling stories, I work by day as romance ghostwriter and run an online community for romance writers at WriteWithHarte.com. I'm an empty nester in central Virginia living my HEA with my hubby and a nutty cat.
Cute and heartwarming little story! I really liked the characters. Especially bc they seemed mature and tried to talk things out instead of creating unnecessary drama (I mean there are still some bumps in the road for these two but their problems are relatable and believable). The Hero is respectful towards the heroine and not one of those "abusive male heroes masquerading as "Alpha-Males"" and the heroine is her one person with her own mind and own career - i liked that ;)!!! If you are looking for a quick and joyful read this is your book!
P.S. maybe I should mention that by "cute story" I don't mean clean! bc there are some (I think 2 or 3?!) steamy scenes in this one...
Great story! I loved that she had issues with him and could prove them, and then he did something about it, rather than hedge or hesitate. Best way to show her she didn't know him as well as she thought. The danger was believable and pushed them closer together, the plot was enjoyable, and the couple were great together.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this story, but it really blew me away! Max and Madeleine are both such interesting and complex characters--strong but vulnerable due to past experiences. Like Madeleine, I was a bit skeptical of Max in the beginning but he won me over by chapter 2! You really can't help but love him. Their adventure in Africa was gripping, but it was the scenes back in the US that were really powerful. I liked the connection, and I really felt for both of them. I loved how the story played out, and the ending was great. What more do you want from a free read?! I can't wait to read the next one!