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The Alpha Brotherhood #2
All or Nothing
"I can't sleep with a man who keeps secrets."
Despite the warnings that he would break her heart, Jayne Hughes fell for the bad boy. And Conrad Hughes, casino magnate, did just that with his absences and lies. Now she’s ready to move on, but her
husband has other plans….
Conrad’s undercover work for Interpol destroyed his marriage. When Jayne comes to Monte Carlo seeking a divorce, he launches an all-out assault. Seducing his wife back into his bed is child’s play;
earning her trust is another matter. Yet Conrad knows the odds favor the house. And he has no intentions of losing.
Despite the warnings that he would break her heart, Jayne Hughes fell for the bad boy. And Conrad Hughes, casino magnate, did just that with his absences and lies. Now she’s ready to move on, but her
husband has other plans….
Conrad’s undercover work for Interpol destroyed his marriage. When Jayne comes to Monte Carlo seeking a divorce, he launches an all-out assault. Seducing his wife back into his bed is child’s play;
earning her trust is another matter. Yet Conrad knows the odds favor the house. And he has no intentions of losing.
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Catherine Mann
593 books1,259 followersUSA Today bestseller Catherine Mann has written women's fiction, romance, and romantic suspense for Lake Union, Harlequin, HQN, Berkley, Tule, and Sourcebooks, with titles released in more than 30 countries. Catherine’s novels have won numerous awards, including a RITA Award, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice Award, and the Bookseller’s Best Award.
A South Carolinian at heart, after years of moving around the country Catherine has settled back in her home state with her Harley-riding husband. Empty nesters, they have a blended family of nine children, nine grandchildren, two dogs, and three feral cats, who all provide endless inspiration for new novels. For more information, visit: http://catherinemann.com
A South Carolinian at heart, after years of moving around the country Catherine has settled back in her home state with her Harley-riding husband. Empty nesters, they have a blended family of nine children, nine grandchildren, two dogs, and three feral cats, who all provide endless inspiration for new novels. For more information, visit: http://catherinemann.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 19, 2021
I didn’t know that this was a part of a series when I started reading it. I was just lazily browsing through my TBR since I decided to stop procrastinating and have my first book of the year, so when I came across this book, I thought it would be a great one to start on. And I was right! It's a marriage-in-trouble trope, so it's a win for me!
Anyway, as I said before, this was actually a part of a series, The Alpha Brotherhood . It’s about troubled/delinquent boys who went to a military school and were recruited by the headmaster to work for Interpol, a super-top-secret; you-can’t-tell-it-to-anyone kind of organization. That’s why Conrad, a casino magnate, has been hiding his work with Interpol from his wife, Jayne. Though Jayne started to doubt Conrad, she still stayed. But after a health scare and not been able to get in touch with him for days, she realized she had enough of his secrets and absences and walked out.
Jayne had been trying too many times to divorce Conrad, but he refused to sign it. So she decided to see him and have him sign it in person and at the same time give back the ring. But when Conrad realized that his wife might be in danger because of him, he took her to his retreat in Africa. He decided to use this only chance to try and win Jayne back or lose her forever.
The story is well told, and the writing and characterization were excellent. I’d say that Catherine Mann is such a wonderful writer. And by the second half, I was so invested in their relationship, and I couldn’t bring myself to put the book down. Conrad and Jayne's chemistry was still explosive; it didn’t diminish in all their time apart. And the story’s backdrop was a plus! But you know what I really loved about their story? They were both celibate during their three-year separation – that alone made this book worthy!
Overall, All or Nothing is such a great read! It is a second chance love story with just the right amount of angst, plus I loved both main characters. And I’m definitely itching to get around to the rest of the books in the series.
December 8, 2012
This is the second book in the Alpha Brotherhood series, about a bunch of men who were delinquents and sent to a reform school where they met Colonel Salvatore and Troy, the hero Conrad and Malcolm formed an unbreakable bond.
Conrad the hero is filthy rich, owns casinos and the world but he also works secretly for the Interpol. He and Jayne have been married for seven years but have spent the past three years apart ever since Jayne walked out, tired of her husband's secrets and absence, it reminded too much of her own father, who kept a second secret family, though she knows her husband would never cheat on her.
Jayne and Conrad met in the E.R. when she was working as a nurse and had a whirlwind romance and Jayne moved, quitting her job. Both of them had baggage, the hero because his father was a crook and the heroine too and communication was a big issue. The heroine has been trying to get the hero to divorce her but he wants to see her, so she comes back and the hero intends to let her go because he knows he has hurt her but intentions don't always work out.
When danger is on the horizon, Conrad has to open up about his work which angers Jayne. I loved how both of them remained true to their vows and worked through their issues and looked back at the past with fresh eyes. What did frustrate me was Conrad and his unwillingness to open up and give up that easily, his dilly-dallying annoyed me though I did not doubt for one minute that this couple was meant to be.
An enjoyable second chance at love story.
ARC provided by Harlequin through Netgalley.
Conrad the hero is filthy rich, owns casinos and the world but he also works secretly for the Interpol. He and Jayne have been married for seven years but have spent the past three years apart ever since Jayne walked out, tired of her husband's secrets and absence, it reminded too much of her own father, who kept a second secret family, though she knows her husband would never cheat on her.
Jayne and Conrad met in the E.R. when she was working as a nurse and had a whirlwind romance and Jayne moved, quitting her job. Both of them had baggage, the hero because his father was a crook and the heroine too and communication was a big issue. The heroine has been trying to get the hero to divorce her but he wants to see her, so she comes back and the hero intends to let her go because he knows he has hurt her but intentions don't always work out.
When danger is on the horizon, Conrad has to open up about his work which angers Jayne. I loved how both of them remained true to their vows and worked through their issues and looked back at the past with fresh eyes. What did frustrate me was Conrad and his unwillingness to open up and give up that easily, his dilly-dallying annoyed me though I did not doubt for one minute that this couple was meant to be.
An enjoyable second chance at love story.
ARC provided by Harlequin through Netgalley.
January 3, 2013
I have many times heard the expression"being married is not always all it seems to be". And in this book from best selling author Catherine Mann I as reader was shown just one of the reasons as to just why all is not as it seems.
Jayne has been separated from her husband for three years, a man she will always love but could not fully trust as during the four years they were together he would disappear for weeks and never reveal where he was or what he was up to. I did not blame her one bit as I am sure all of us would get a little suspicious and start thinking really bad thoughts. What I found a little hard was that she thinks he is like her father who had a second family in the background. For me based on the level of love that she and Conrad shared before the break up, as so beautifully and powerfully laid out by the author, should have let her know that Conrad is not the kind of man her father was.
But of course I am sure you would agree there would be no spice or drama to the book, so yes this time around I would say it was a interesting touch, and also gave the character of Jayne that level of insecurity needed to make her more vulnerable. And the only reason for me saying so is purely based on the intensity of feelings the author described between these two,it just shouted "She should have known better".
The real mystery of course is what exactly Conrad gets up to when he does go AWOL on poor Jayne when she needs him around. When the truth is revealed it is a real wow moment, it had me as reader immediately thinking " Wow this author is good, she came up with something new and fresh and so not the kind of plot I am use to in books but rather on screen".
The characters both main and secondary were fantastic and so well written I truly felt as if the author was connecting me to them on some emotional level. The whole secrets are better left untold element added flare, mystery and good old fashioned action to the book. Which I have come to learn are always a given in a Catherine Mann book only this time she really pushed it up a notch and the book took on a real life espionage feel,with so much action and emotion it had me acting like a over the top action junkie yelling and shouting at the characters to do this or not do that!
What I simply loved about the book was the message of communication is a so valuable and so very needed in any relationship, you need to trust the person your with, revealing your deep dark secrets will not always mean you get what you want but then again life is a gamble and sometimes you win and sometimes you loose.
The author also incorporated more alpha brothers that for me as reader is so important for when I get to the next book it is never any fun to start reading about a character from a previous book that now has his or her own book, as it always makes me think that I missed out on some valuable bit of information about him or her. So yes loved that the author gave me just that little bit of a heads up, letting me know that is more to come.
The backdrop setting was one of glitz and glam at one point,which gave the book the James Bond feel but also that of Africa where I got to see the worth and strengths of both characters truly revealed.
This was truly a passionate, romantic, action packed, mystery and suspense filled read. Writing at it's best!
Excellent work Catherine,keep them coming!
5/5 star review
"Gambling for love with a sexy twist"
Jayne has been separated from her husband for three years, a man she will always love but could not fully trust as during the four years they were together he would disappear for weeks and never reveal where he was or what he was up to. I did not blame her one bit as I am sure all of us would get a little suspicious and start thinking really bad thoughts. What I found a little hard was that she thinks he is like her father who had a second family in the background. For me based on the level of love that she and Conrad shared before the break up, as so beautifully and powerfully laid out by the author, should have let her know that Conrad is not the kind of man her father was.
But of course I am sure you would agree there would be no spice or drama to the book, so yes this time around I would say it was a interesting touch, and also gave the character of Jayne that level of insecurity needed to make her more vulnerable. And the only reason for me saying so is purely based on the intensity of feelings the author described between these two,it just shouted "She should have known better".
The real mystery of course is what exactly Conrad gets up to when he does go AWOL on poor Jayne when she needs him around. When the truth is revealed it is a real wow moment, it had me as reader immediately thinking " Wow this author is good, she came up with something new and fresh and so not the kind of plot I am use to in books but rather on screen".
The characters both main and secondary were fantastic and so well written I truly felt as if the author was connecting me to them on some emotional level. The whole secrets are better left untold element added flare, mystery and good old fashioned action to the book. Which I have come to learn are always a given in a Catherine Mann book only this time she really pushed it up a notch and the book took on a real life espionage feel,with so much action and emotion it had me acting like a over the top action junkie yelling and shouting at the characters to do this or not do that!
What I simply loved about the book was the message of communication is a so valuable and so very needed in any relationship, you need to trust the person your with, revealing your deep dark secrets will not always mean you get what you want but then again life is a gamble and sometimes you win and sometimes you loose.
The author also incorporated more alpha brothers that for me as reader is so important for when I get to the next book it is never any fun to start reading about a character from a previous book that now has his or her own book, as it always makes me think that I missed out on some valuable bit of information about him or her. So yes loved that the author gave me just that little bit of a heads up, letting me know that is more to come.
The backdrop setting was one of glitz and glam at one point,which gave the book the James Bond feel but also that of Africa where I got to see the worth and strengths of both characters truly revealed.
This was truly a passionate, romantic, action packed, mystery and suspense filled read. Writing at it's best!
Excellent work Catherine,keep them coming!
5/5 star review
"Gambling for love with a sexy twist"
December 19, 2012
Very good book. Jayne and Conrad have been married for seven years but separated for three. Jayne couldn't handle the fact that Conrad would disappear for weeks at a time without telling her anything and without staying in touch. It reminded her too much of her father who had been unfaithful and had a second family that he had kept secret. She was sure Conrad wasn't cheating, but the secrets were tearing her up. So she left him and tried to rebuild her life. Now she's back to get him to sign divorce papers. She is still attracted to him and still in love with him, but afraid of getting her heart broken again. Conrad knows he's been a terrible husband, but he doesn't want to let her go. So he is determined to win her back. Conrad has his own issues that have affected him. His father was a white collar crook and Conrad used his own intelligence to try to get even. It took him down a wrong road where he ended up at reform school where he met Troy, Malcolm and others who now do occasional work for Interpol. Now he feels a need to do everything he can to make up for the wrong he did. When something happens that may have put Jayne in danger Conrad is finally forced to open up about his work. Communication has never been his strong point and Jayne often feels like she's pulling teeth to get him to tell her anything. Once again his reluctance to open up nearly destroyed everything but with some advice from a friend he was finally able to win the day.
April 24, 2017
A Barely There 2 Stars ~ Definitely not worth the time and effort. I am disliking this whole series and will read no more.
I feel about this book the same way I felt about 'For the Sake of Their Son.' Just not so good. You have to be okay with suspended belief to read this book as well as the series. This is another, as I call them, unbalanced books as it seems this whole series is turning out to be. Just way too much angst and being emotionally separated and far too little happiness. We get two pages of fairly happy when the hero comes to his senses then a very short epilogue that was very mundane.
I'm sorry but it is extremely frustrating. In this story this married couple had been married for four years and separated for the last three. Her husband kept a huge secret and let her believe that each time he disappeared he didn't love her and was fooling around with other women. He was an idiot, a complete fool and I don't think I can bear to read any more of this series. I have been a fan of Catherine Mann for quite a few years but for some reason this series turns me off. There isn't enough HEA at the end to come close to making up or redeeming for all the lies, secrets and heartache that we suffer throughout 99.5% of the book.
I feel about this book the same way I felt about 'For the Sake of Their Son.' Just not so good. You have to be okay with suspended belief to read this book as well as the series. This is another, as I call them, unbalanced books as it seems this whole series is turning out to be. Just way too much angst and being emotionally separated and far too little happiness. We get two pages of fairly happy when the hero comes to his senses then a very short epilogue that was very mundane.
I'm sorry but it is extremely frustrating. In this story this married couple had been married for four years and separated for the last three. Her husband kept a huge secret and let her believe that each time he disappeared he didn't love her and was fooling around with other women. He was an idiot, a complete fool and I don't think I can bear to read any more of this series. I have been a fan of Catherine Mann for quite a few years but for some reason this series turns me off. There isn't enough HEA at the end to come close to making up or redeeming for all the lies, secrets and heartache that we suffer throughout 99.5% of the book.
January 20, 2013
I've enjoyed other Catherine Mann books, so I knew what to expect in this one. I liked the series premise of the Alpha Brotherhood, rich and successful men who were recruited as freelance intelligence operatives for Interpol. It's an exciting series premise and something I could almost believe to be real.
I also liked the story premise of the book, of a hero who had let his work ruin his marriage. The hero is absolutely dreamy and he was totally rockin' the James Bond vibe, but without as many action scenes, which was great since I was in the mood more for a romance than a romantic suspense. There was a little suspense, but the romance took center stage.
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the heroine, and for me, that makes up 50% of my enjoyment of any book. I know that's not true for everyone, so while I didn't like the heroine, I would still recommend the book to another reader because what I didn't like about the heroine may not bother a different reader, and the rest of the book was really good.
The heroine was very strong, which I liked a lot, and she handled the dangerous situation of the book with a great deal of elegance and capability. I don't want to say too much about the heroine because I don't want to ruin the book, but she did make some small choices that, added up together, slowly lost my sympathy for her. I mostly didn't like the way she handled a few of the arguments she had with the hero.
Overall, however, this was a good book, and I would say for anyone to read the excerpt and if the heroine resonates with you, then it might be worth it to buy the entire book to read because there's a good chance you'd like it.
I received this book via Netgalley.
I also liked the story premise of the book, of a hero who had let his work ruin his marriage. The hero is absolutely dreamy and he was totally rockin' the James Bond vibe, but without as many action scenes, which was great since I was in the mood more for a romance than a romantic suspense. There was a little suspense, but the romance took center stage.
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the heroine, and for me, that makes up 50% of my enjoyment of any book. I know that's not true for everyone, so while I didn't like the heroine, I would still recommend the book to another reader because what I didn't like about the heroine may not bother a different reader, and the rest of the book was really good.
The heroine was very strong, which I liked a lot, and she handled the dangerous situation of the book with a great deal of elegance and capability. I don't want to say too much about the heroine because I don't want to ruin the book, but she did make some small choices that, added up together, slowly lost my sympathy for her. I mostly didn't like the way she handled a few of the arguments she had with the hero.
Overall, however, this was a good book, and I would say for anyone to read the excerpt and if the heroine resonates with you, then it might be worth it to buy the entire book to read because there's a good chance you'd like it.
I received this book via Netgalley.
February 8, 2013
***Detailed Review***
Can a marriage on the brink of collapsing be saved? After four years of marriage and three years separated, Jayne Hughes has finally sought out her husband, Conrad Hughes to sign the divorce papers he keeps sending back unsigned to her lawyer.
Overall, ALL OR NOTHING was a real treat to read. I enjoyed nearly all of it as Conrad and Jayne who are two very different people find their way back to each other.
Conrad spent his teen years following in his father footsteps of white-collar crimes. Sent to a reform school, Conrad got back on track, met others like him and learned how to put his hacking skills to use. A career in Interpol gave him the power he relished and kept things legal.
However, thanks to his Interpol jobs taking him away without noticed for unknown amounts of time, a strain formed on his marriage with Jayne due to him not telling her about his secret life. The strain finally fractured when Jayne went through a health scare and couldn’t reach him. Upon his return, she packed and left.
Jayne still loves Conrad and being back near him is a test to her resolve, but after the scandal with her father’s infidelity came out, she’s tired of living in lies and that’s all Conrad ever did in their marriage.
Now, they’re faced with ending their marriage that began after only three months of dating. But first they agree to a 48 hour good-bye period to get each other out of their systems,
Unfortunately, when news of Conrad identity possibly being discovered by enemies of his last, Conrad’s secrets come out and Jayne is forced to realize she may not have known her husband well after all.
With their lives in danger, Conrad takes Jayne to safety and while there they learn about their past mistakes and grow back toward each other as understanding is found.
When Conrad pushes Jayne away, it finally opens his eyes to what he’s willing to sacrifice to keep his wife by his side.
Going after her, Conrad and Jayne both promise compromise, which is what love is really about.
Can a marriage on the brink of collapsing be saved? After four years of marriage and three years separated, Jayne Hughes has finally sought out her husband, Conrad Hughes to sign the divorce papers he keeps sending back unsigned to her lawyer.
Overall, ALL OR NOTHING was a real treat to read. I enjoyed nearly all of it as Conrad and Jayne who are two very different people find their way back to each other.
Conrad spent his teen years following in his father footsteps of white-collar crimes. Sent to a reform school, Conrad got back on track, met others like him and learned how to put his hacking skills to use. A career in Interpol gave him the power he relished and kept things legal.
However, thanks to his Interpol jobs taking him away without noticed for unknown amounts of time, a strain formed on his marriage with Jayne due to him not telling her about his secret life. The strain finally fractured when Jayne went through a health scare and couldn’t reach him. Upon his return, she packed and left.
Jayne still loves Conrad and being back near him is a test to her resolve, but after the scandal with her father’s infidelity came out, she’s tired of living in lies and that’s all Conrad ever did in their marriage.
Now, they’re faced with ending their marriage that began after only three months of dating. But first they agree to a 48 hour good-bye period to get each other out of their systems,
Unfortunately, when news of Conrad identity possibly being discovered by enemies of his last, Conrad’s secrets come out and Jayne is forced to realize she may not have known her husband well after all.
With their lives in danger, Conrad takes Jayne to safety and while there they learn about their past mistakes and grow back toward each other as understanding is found.
When Conrad pushes Jayne away, it finally opens his eyes to what he’s willing to sacrifice to keep his wife by his side.
Going after her, Conrad and Jayne both promise compromise, which is what love is really about.
February 1, 2013
Courtesy of Harlequin through Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
More like 3.5 Stars.
Conrad Hughes had warnings written all over him, but that did not stop Jayne from falling in love with the man who she married in such a short time. When Conrad started to disappear without a word or a warning, a girl can only handle so much before jumping to conclusions. Now separated for three years and living in different states, Jayne still cannot get her ex-husband to sign the divorce papers so she travels to his casino in hopes of persuading him.
Conrad works undercover for Interpol and keeping the secret has ruined his marriage. Now with his wife back in Monte Carlo he hopes to put out his own persuasion straight in to his bed and back into her heart. A lot of things end up on the line, including the potential safety of his wife when word that his undercover is blown spreads.
Cute story that revolved around a separated married couple seducing each other back into their lives. Conrad was obviously still attracted to Jayne even after three years, and Jayne has a hard time not letting her eyes wander. Yet, Conrad did nothing to get his wife back before that but wait and hope that not signing the divorce papers would force her back to Monte Carlo. Not believable, but a cute fairytale story like anyway, a quick sweet read that has you rooting for love. The fact that he didn't sleep with anyone else was also a little on the eh.. side.. I'm sure every girl dreams of this one ;)
Though there was an excitement of danger and Conrad taking Jayne to a remote place in Africa where he owns a small home and a clinic he build because of her, the whole story revolved around the two seducing each other in hopes of getting it out of their system or rebuilding their marriage. The only other part that was exciting and gripping fell a little short and flat and the rest just fell into a predictable place. Still, a quick fast read that was enjoyable. A married couple with hardships that you cannot help but root for and I couldn't help but devour in one sitting.
More like 3.5 Stars.
Conrad Hughes had warnings written all over him, but that did not stop Jayne from falling in love with the man who she married in such a short time. When Conrad started to disappear without a word or a warning, a girl can only handle so much before jumping to conclusions. Now separated for three years and living in different states, Jayne still cannot get her ex-husband to sign the divorce papers so she travels to his casino in hopes of persuading him.
Conrad works undercover for Interpol and keeping the secret has ruined his marriage. Now with his wife back in Monte Carlo he hopes to put out his own persuasion straight in to his bed and back into her heart. A lot of things end up on the line, including the potential safety of his wife when word that his undercover is blown spreads.
Cute story that revolved around a separated married couple seducing each other back into their lives. Conrad was obviously still attracted to Jayne even after three years, and Jayne has a hard time not letting her eyes wander. Yet, Conrad did nothing to get his wife back before that but wait and hope that not signing the divorce papers would force her back to Monte Carlo. Not believable, but a cute fairytale story like anyway, a quick sweet read that has you rooting for love. The fact that he didn't sleep with anyone else was also a little on the eh.. side.. I'm sure every girl dreams of this one ;)
Though there was an excitement of danger and Conrad taking Jayne to a remote place in Africa where he owns a small home and a clinic he build because of her, the whole story revolved around the two seducing each other in hopes of getting it out of their system or rebuilding their marriage. The only other part that was exciting and gripping fell a little short and flat and the rest just fell into a predictable place. Still, a quick fast read that was enjoyable. A married couple with hardships that you cannot help but root for and I couldn't help but devour in one sitting.
April 12, 2013
This book started with Jayne went to her estranged husband’s casino to gain his attention and his agreement to sign on the divorce papers. She succeeded in getting Conrad’s attention when he appeared almost immediately by her side. They have been separated for 3 years now and it is time for Jayne to find the closure of her marriage and be able to move on. Jayne walked out of their marriage when she could not bear with Conrad’s secretive about his life other than the one she shared with him. But both of them loved each other as much as the day they married. Conrad have his own agenda for not disclosing his side job to Jayne as he wanted to protect her as much as he can but it backfired. Hence, when Jayne forced a confrontation between them, Conrad asked for two days of her time to consider her request for divorce. But before the two days period arrive, his superior informed him that Jayne’s life is in danger and he have to protect her life no matter what.
It is so obvious to see both Conrad and Jayne still loved each other and their feeling did not diminish during their separation. I felt for both of them; loving someone yet has to hide their feeling and not acknowledging them is truly painful for me to read about. Overall, this book has taken me for an emotional ride yet the ending of the book is something that worth the ride. ;)
It is so obvious to see both Conrad and Jayne still loved each other and their feeling did not diminish during their separation. I felt for both of them; loving someone yet has to hide their feeling and not acknowledging them is truly painful for me to read about. Overall, this book has taken me for an emotional ride yet the ending of the book is something that worth the ride. ;)
January 18, 2013
For this review and more visit my blog
All or Nothing is an entertaining romance with a touch of suspense to keep things interesting. It was a little far-fetched but I expect that from these kinds of books and to be honest it is one of the reasons I like them so much.
The characters were strong; Conrad is extremely likeable (even when he is being silly). He was trying so hard to stop things from falling apart but most the time only made it worse. He makes mistakes, but he owns them so it’s forgivable. I really like Jayne, she is so honest with herself about what she was doing and how she was feeling. She is nothing like the clueless female characters I am so used to seeing. I couldn’t help but admire her level headedness. The chemistry between Jayne and Conrad was immense and I loved reading their rekindling romance.
Like I said before, All or Nothing is a little far-fetched and it does have a few issues but I was able to overlook them and I found this very entertaining.
The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for and honest review
All or Nothing is an entertaining romance with a touch of suspense to keep things interesting. It was a little far-fetched but I expect that from these kinds of books and to be honest it is one of the reasons I like them so much.
The characters were strong; Conrad is extremely likeable (even when he is being silly). He was trying so hard to stop things from falling apart but most the time only made it worse. He makes mistakes, but he owns them so it’s forgivable. I really like Jayne, she is so honest with herself about what she was doing and how she was feeling. She is nothing like the clueless female characters I am so used to seeing. I couldn’t help but admire her level headedness. The chemistry between Jayne and Conrad was immense and I loved reading their rekindling romance.
Like I said before, All or Nothing is a little far-fetched and it does have a few issues but I was able to overlook them and I found this very entertaining.
The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for and honest review
Read
January 21, 2020Jayne had met Conrad Hughes when she was working in an emergency room and he had come in with a broken foot. He found excuses to stay in Miami until he convinced her to marry him. It took only a couple of months. Conrad owned and operated a number of casinos and was very wealthy. They spent most of their time at his casino in Monte Carlo.
They had been married for seven years and had been apart for the last three. Conrad had refused to sign the divorce papers that Jayne had sent through various means. This time she was confronting him directly which was what he said he wanted. Jayne still loved him and was frightened of falling back into the same patterns as before she left. This made her nervous.
Conrad asked Jayne to give him 48 hours to try and make things work. He was convinced that she would come back to him and he was intending to use sex to get her back. They were interrupted when his handler showed up in their suite. Colonel Salvador had been a teacher at the military school where Conrad had been sent after messing with the stock market and causing businesses to fail. He had felt guilty after learning that the owner of one of the companies that had gone under had committed suicide. Conrad turned himself in and also turned in his father for being a fraud and selling bad investments on purpose. His father had used his connections to keep him out of jail while Conrad was sent to a military school. His father had tried to use Conrad's contacts at the school to get Conrad to scam the parents of the kids who ended up there. Most of the kids had wealthy parents. Conrad refused and his father beat him. His father got away with that too because Conrad had thrown the first punch during one his father's visits to try and talk Conrad into exploiting his connections there.
Jayne didn't have a father that was worth much either. Her father had another family that she and her mother hadn't known about. Her mother passed away and her father married the woman who had two other children. Jayne had nothing to do with her father. Neither had good examples as parents. Conrad's mother was complicit in her husband's schemes and Jayne's mother had been complacent about being duped by her husband.
Jayne had married Conrad but there were times he couldn't be reached and he refused to tell her where she was. She trusted him enough to know that he wasn't having an affair but he refused to tell her where he was. During one of those times, Jayne had found out that she had a lump in her breast and had to get tested to see if it was malignant. Conrad couldn't be reached and Jayne suffered alone for the week leading up to the testing. She had the tests and they turned out fine but when Conrad came home, Jayne left. She'd had enough. She went back home to Miami and her job as a nurse. She was working for Hospice.
Conrad was forced to tell Jayne about his work with Interpol when the Colonel showed up. He told them they were both in danger. They had to get away. Conrad took Jayne to a home he had in Africa that she hadn't known about. He had bought it shortly before she left. Conrad had fortified the house for use in case he ever had to get away and he had funded a clinic nearby.
Conrad had done all of these things to try and make up for the mistake he had made as a teenager and for the things his father had done. He was a good person deep down and he had wanted Jayne to know it but deep down he wanted to shelter her from the world. He wanted to continue his work with Interpol but not have it affect her. He couldn't live without her but continued to push her away telling himself it was to keep her safe. His life was contradictory and he couldn't resolve anything.
He and Jayne did resume their marriage and were sleeping together again. He talked some about his father to her and told her a little of his work for Interpol. He still wasn't giving her everything she wanted to know and she knew it. She asked many questions and he only answered some of her questions.
There was a break in at the clinic and the teenagers that broke in to steal drugs had been caught when they got too close to his house. It was hard on him to arrest the boys but it had to be done. He came back home and told Jayne some of what happened but not how he felt about it. It was just the facts. She knew now that he would never completely let her in his life and she knew that she had to leave. She contacted a friend at the casino and left him.
Conrad got a visit from the guy who ran the clinic and told him that he had fought for everything he had in business. It would be a good thing for him to fight for his wife if he wanted to keep her and go after her. It took a couple of days but he did just that. He went to Jayne and told her that he would give up his job with Interpol if she wanted him to. She told him that she just wanted him to stay in touch with her so she would know he was safe. She was capable and could do some things for herself. He didn't need to protect her from everything that could possibly go wrong in the world.
Jayne felt most comfortable with his lifestyle in Africa and they made their headquarters there. Jayne took over the company that raised funding for the clinic. She helped out at the clinic too. They had the money to travel anywhere they needed to, when they needed to. They were both finally happy.
Conrad had always suggested that he would be a lousy father due to the example he had but was now willing to give fatherhood a chance with Jayne. Conrad had finally learned that he had to compromise in order to stay married. He had felt the marriage was doomed from the start and had made his marriage a self-propelling prophecy. It wasn't what he wanted and Jayne had convinced him that it wasn't what she wanted either. It was all or nothing with her. Conrad had to give all of himself in order to keep Jayne.
They had been married for seven years and had been apart for the last three. Conrad had refused to sign the divorce papers that Jayne had sent through various means. This time she was confronting him directly which was what he said he wanted. Jayne still loved him and was frightened of falling back into the same patterns as before she left. This made her nervous.
Conrad asked Jayne to give him 48 hours to try and make things work. He was convinced that she would come back to him and he was intending to use sex to get her back. They were interrupted when his handler showed up in their suite. Colonel Salvador had been a teacher at the military school where Conrad had been sent after messing with the stock market and causing businesses to fail. He had felt guilty after learning that the owner of one of the companies that had gone under had committed suicide. Conrad turned himself in and also turned in his father for being a fraud and selling bad investments on purpose. His father had used his connections to keep him out of jail while Conrad was sent to a military school. His father had tried to use Conrad's contacts at the school to get Conrad to scam the parents of the kids who ended up there. Most of the kids had wealthy parents. Conrad refused and his father beat him. His father got away with that too because Conrad had thrown the first punch during one his father's visits to try and talk Conrad into exploiting his connections there.
Jayne didn't have a father that was worth much either. Her father had another family that she and her mother hadn't known about. Her mother passed away and her father married the woman who had two other children. Jayne had nothing to do with her father. Neither had good examples as parents. Conrad's mother was complicit in her husband's schemes and Jayne's mother had been complacent about being duped by her husband.
Jayne had married Conrad but there were times he couldn't be reached and he refused to tell her where she was. She trusted him enough to know that he wasn't having an affair but he refused to tell her where he was. During one of those times, Jayne had found out that she had a lump in her breast and had to get tested to see if it was malignant. Conrad couldn't be reached and Jayne suffered alone for the week leading up to the testing. She had the tests and they turned out fine but when Conrad came home, Jayne left. She'd had enough. She went back home to Miami and her job as a nurse. She was working for Hospice.
Conrad was forced to tell Jayne about his work with Interpol when the Colonel showed up. He told them they were both in danger. They had to get away. Conrad took Jayne to a home he had in Africa that she hadn't known about. He had bought it shortly before she left. Conrad had fortified the house for use in case he ever had to get away and he had funded a clinic nearby.
Conrad had done all of these things to try and make up for the mistake he had made as a teenager and for the things his father had done. He was a good person deep down and he had wanted Jayne to know it but deep down he wanted to shelter her from the world. He wanted to continue his work with Interpol but not have it affect her. He couldn't live without her but continued to push her away telling himself it was to keep her safe. His life was contradictory and he couldn't resolve anything.
He and Jayne did resume their marriage and were sleeping together again. He talked some about his father to her and told her a little of his work for Interpol. He still wasn't giving her everything she wanted to know and she knew it. She asked many questions and he only answered some of her questions.
There was a break in at the clinic and the teenagers that broke in to steal drugs had been caught when they got too close to his house. It was hard on him to arrest the boys but it had to be done. He came back home and told Jayne some of what happened but not how he felt about it. It was just the facts. She knew now that he would never completely let her in his life and she knew that she had to leave. She contacted a friend at the casino and left him.
Conrad got a visit from the guy who ran the clinic and told him that he had fought for everything he had in business. It would be a good thing for him to fight for his wife if he wanted to keep her and go after her. It took a couple of days but he did just that. He went to Jayne and told her that he would give up his job with Interpol if she wanted him to. She told him that she just wanted him to stay in touch with her so she would know he was safe. She was capable and could do some things for herself. He didn't need to protect her from everything that could possibly go wrong in the world.
Jayne felt most comfortable with his lifestyle in Africa and they made their headquarters there. Jayne took over the company that raised funding for the clinic. She helped out at the clinic too. They had the money to travel anywhere they needed to, when they needed to. They were both finally happy.
Conrad had always suggested that he would be a lousy father due to the example he had but was now willing to give fatherhood a chance with Jayne. Conrad had finally learned that he had to compromise in order to stay married. He had felt the marriage was doomed from the start and had made his marriage a self-propelling prophecy. It wasn't what he wanted and Jayne had convinced him that it wasn't what she wanted either. It was all or nothing with her. Conrad had to give all of himself in order to keep Jayne.
December 20, 2012
All or Nothing by Catherine Mann is an intense and passionate romance story.
Conrad Hughes, casino magnate has been hiding his work with Interpol from his wife Jayne. After a scare and not been able to get in touch with him for a full week when she most needed him, Jayne cannot take anymore secrets and leaves Conrad.
Now after three years she has gone to his casino and home to get him to sign the divorce papers. This is the only chance that Conrad will have to try and win his wife back. But when her life is danger from his last assignment he will have to protect her or risk loosing her forever.Read More...
Conrad Hughes, casino magnate has been hiding his work with Interpol from his wife Jayne. After a scare and not been able to get in touch with him for a full week when she most needed him, Jayne cannot take anymore secrets and leaves Conrad.
Now after three years she has gone to his casino and home to get him to sign the divorce papers. This is the only chance that Conrad will have to try and win his wife back. But when her life is danger from his last assignment he will have to protect her or risk loosing her forever.Read More...
December 31, 2012
Oh I loved the book so much Jayne was the perfect counter point to Conrad. Jayne flys to Monte Carlo to serve her estranged husband of three years divorce papers. Conrad has not been able to get over Jayne and has been waiting for her come back to him. Jayne and Conrad still love each other so much but secrets and lies drove them apart the first time. Will they be able to over come the lies once revealed or has their ship finally sailed. It was great how at first I thought this book would only cover three men but with this book two more alpha brothers were added.
January 6, 2013
this series keeps going strong. I can't wait to meet the rest of the brotherhood!
December 2, 2018
All or Nothing
This is book two of a series. In this one he works for Interpol but owns his own high class casino in Monte Carlo. He and his band of brothers have their own unique story. He has been married for seven years. But estranged from his wife for three. She is back but only to get his signature on the divorce papers. He is not going to give up on the marriage. But will his dual job keep him from getting her back? Can he recognize that communication is the answer to keep her?
This is book two of a series. In this one he works for Interpol but owns his own high class casino in Monte Carlo. He and his band of brothers have their own unique story. He has been married for seven years. But estranged from his wife for three. She is back but only to get his signature on the divorce papers. He is not going to give up on the marriage. But will his dual job keep him from getting her back? Can he recognize that communication is the answer to keep her?
May 12, 2020
El libro me ha gustado bastante, es cierto que tiene muchas cosas que mejorar, pero es como una historia corta, no se puede pedir más en 150 páginas, ojalá consiga pronto los otros libros de esta saga.
May 16, 2023
All or Nothing
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story had a good story of bad communication between leading characters on the verge of divorce. I highly recommend this book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story had a good story of bad communication between leading characters on the verge of divorce. I highly recommend this book.
November 26, 2025
Nuostabi meiles istorija
July 17, 2017
* original post at Romance Refined *
Why I picked this book up: Last year I read my first Catherine Mann book, a romantic suspense titled Cover Me, loved it, and immediately read the rest of the Elite Force series. When I saw this new title from her available as an ARC (Advanced Review Copy) from NetGalley, I was excited. Even if I hadn’t already been a fan of the author, the blurb would have sold me with the idea of Monte Carlo and romance in a marriage!
I was also curious to read a category romance, which this is, because it’s not the romance format I usually go for.
My favourite thing about this book was that the romance was between a man and wife on the brink of divorce. Let’s face it, marriage isn’t always a romantic walk in the park, so I always love to read about couples that are in the ‘real life’ stage of their relationship. Granted, most women can’t blame their marital issues on their husband being a secret agent (although, it would explain a lot …). Knowing that a marriage was on the line made me feel extra invested in Jayne and Conrad.
The best surprise was the locale change about halfway through the book, to the plains of Africa. From the private compound with a panic room to the wildlife gathering at the waterhole out back and a nearby hospital for poor villagers, I felt transported. The flipside is that I was really excited about the Monte Carlo setting mentioned in the blurb, yet despite that the first half of the book was set there, I didn’t feel that it came alive as a unique setting, instead feeling like a fairly typical glamorous area.
What got old was the wishy-washy love–leave tug of war. There was such a focus on the emotional turmoil that I sometimes found myself bored, wishing for more variety to drive the story, and I didn’t always buy into the reasons for why the characters couldn’t come to terms with their pasts and with each other. Then again, I have to remind myself that this is precisely the formula for category romance, so this comes down to my personal preference.
The biggest disappointment for me personally was the lacklustre ending in regards to the semi-suspense element that drove the external element of the plot. However, since All or Nothing is part of the Desire line from Harlequin, I can hardly fault the author for toning down this element since part of the parameters of the Desire line are that the stories not be classed as romantic suspense. Even still, the ending in regards to the external plot did feel rushed and convenient.
For my personal reading tastes I’d rank this book in the 3 star range, but for the type of book that it is, I think it’s well written and many readers would feel it was near perfect, hence my given rating of 4 stars.
Series: book 2 in the The Alpha Brotherhood
Why I picked this book up: Last year I read my first Catherine Mann book, a romantic suspense titled Cover Me, loved it, and immediately read the rest of the Elite Force series. When I saw this new title from her available as an ARC (Advanced Review Copy) from NetGalley, I was excited. Even if I hadn’t already been a fan of the author, the blurb would have sold me with the idea of Monte Carlo and romance in a marriage!
I was also curious to read a category romance, which this is, because it’s not the romance format I usually go for.
My favourite thing about this book was that the romance was between a man and wife on the brink of divorce. Let’s face it, marriage isn’t always a romantic walk in the park, so I always love to read about couples that are in the ‘real life’ stage of their relationship. Granted, most women can’t blame their marital issues on their husband being a secret agent (although, it would explain a lot …). Knowing that a marriage was on the line made me feel extra invested in Jayne and Conrad.
The best surprise was the locale change about halfway through the book, to the plains of Africa. From the private compound with a panic room to the wildlife gathering at the waterhole out back and a nearby hospital for poor villagers, I felt transported. The flipside is that I was really excited about the Monte Carlo setting mentioned in the blurb, yet despite that the first half of the book was set there, I didn’t feel that it came alive as a unique setting, instead feeling like a fairly typical glamorous area.
What got old was the wishy-washy love–leave tug of war. There was such a focus on the emotional turmoil that I sometimes found myself bored, wishing for more variety to drive the story, and I didn’t always buy into the reasons for why the characters couldn’t come to terms with their pasts and with each other. Then again, I have to remind myself that this is precisely the formula for category romance, so this comes down to my personal preference.
The biggest disappointment for me personally was the lacklustre ending in regards to the semi-suspense element that drove the external element of the plot. However, since All or Nothing is part of the Desire line from Harlequin, I can hardly fault the author for toning down this element since part of the parameters of the Desire line are that the stories not be classed as romantic suspense. Even still, the ending in regards to the external plot did feel rushed and convenient.
For my personal reading tastes I’d rank this book in the 3 star range, but for the type of book that it is, I think it’s well written and many readers would feel it was near perfect, hence my given rating of 4 stars.
Series: book 2 in the The Alpha Brotherhood
February 6, 2013
My experience with Catherine Mann novels leads me to believe that a reader who really enjoys romance fiction will seldom if ever be disappointed with one of her stories. This short novel is no exception. The marriage which holds center stage in this story is in deep trouble and has been for years. Husband and wife have not even communicated directly with one another and even though divorce papers have been sent back and forth across the Atlantic, the impasse continues. Conrad can't even face the idea that Jayne is wanting out of their marriage, even though he knows that his own double life is at fault, his unwillingness to trust her or share all the facets of his life even when told that it was acceptable to his intelligence handlers. And Jayne, who continues to love Conrad, who wants so badly to find a way back into a good and happy marriage relationship, believes that the shadows that are wrapped around her husband and what he may or may not be involved in, are the poison that will ultimately break them apart irrevocably.
This story is about the loss of trust, the futility of trying to build a relationship on a foundation of duplicity and half-truths. It is about two intense people who freely admit that they are attracted to one another like steel to a magnate, but they both know that something--more than one thing, actually--has to change. Even in his darkest moments when he doubts he can ever win her back, Conrad refuses to give Jayne the divorce she seeks and woos her with every creative thought and idea that he can manufacture in a mind and heart that are deeply in love with his estranged wife.
It's a wonderful love story even with the adversarial content and a reader will find that the emotions go from hope to despair more than once. Yet one finds herself pulling for these two, hoping against hope that Conrad can finally put Jayne first, can opt for living happily with the one woman he can love forever, rather than choosing the excitement and adrenaline rush of the espionage world into which he delves from time to time. I think readers will have to agree that this love story is intense, the characters clearly drawn and shaped, the story holding the reader's interest to the point that one can, from time to time, find oneself perched on the edge of the chair. While not a true "suspense" novel, there is that tentative and precarious nature to the Hughes marriage and it is that intensity that drives this story forward to its conclusion.
I hope you will seek this book out and enjoy it as much as I did.
I give it a rating of 4 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
This story is about the loss of trust, the futility of trying to build a relationship on a foundation of duplicity and half-truths. It is about two intense people who freely admit that they are attracted to one another like steel to a magnate, but they both know that something--more than one thing, actually--has to change. Even in his darkest moments when he doubts he can ever win her back, Conrad refuses to give Jayne the divorce she seeks and woos her with every creative thought and idea that he can manufacture in a mind and heart that are deeply in love with his estranged wife.
It's a wonderful love story even with the adversarial content and a reader will find that the emotions go from hope to despair more than once. Yet one finds herself pulling for these two, hoping against hope that Conrad can finally put Jayne first, can opt for living happily with the one woman he can love forever, rather than choosing the excitement and adrenaline rush of the espionage world into which he delves from time to time. I think readers will have to agree that this love story is intense, the characters clearly drawn and shaped, the story holding the reader's interest to the point that one can, from time to time, find oneself perched on the edge of the chair. While not a true "suspense" novel, there is that tentative and precarious nature to the Hughes marriage and it is that intensity that drives this story forward to its conclusion.
I hope you will seek this book out and enjoy it as much as I did.
I give it a rating of 4 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
January 18, 2016
Just finished reading All or Nothing by Catherine Mann. The review of the book had been good. I always read Harlequin without expecting anything much. A light romance, a cuppa coffee. silent house - all the rare perks of being a housewife:)
But I must say I was taken my surprise by the psychological aspects touched in this book. Both the protagonists are affected by their fathers duplicity. Strangely they both bring that into their marriage. Got me thinking here? How affected are we with the way our parents behave?
We always give importance to the parent child relationship. But most of us carry this to our adulthood. We all enter with a baggage in a marriage. Some of us overcome it and some don't. Hopefully as parents, we don't make the same mistakes.( Can't avoid the new ones).
Anyway, coming back to the story I must say Catherine Mann has brought out the James Bond affect to the fullest. I heard the signature music in my head while reading this book. The settings, the gadgets, the fast pace of the books kept me glued to this book. ( I accomplished a bag of huge laundry.... grrrr).
So what was wrong with the characters( I should use their names.....Conrad and Jayne.)? They were separated despite being so totally in love with each other. The reason being lack of honesty from Conrad's side. He was an undercover agent and he could not tell her that.
How they overcome it? That is for you guys to find out :) ( On a second thought will a Mills and Boon have it any other way......).
Check out the review @
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
But I must say I was taken my surprise by the psychological aspects touched in this book. Both the protagonists are affected by their fathers duplicity. Strangely they both bring that into their marriage. Got me thinking here? How affected are we with the way our parents behave?
We always give importance to the parent child relationship. But most of us carry this to our adulthood. We all enter with a baggage in a marriage. Some of us overcome it and some don't. Hopefully as parents, we don't make the same mistakes.( Can't avoid the new ones).
Anyway, coming back to the story I must say Catherine Mann has brought out the James Bond affect to the fullest. I heard the signature music in my head while reading this book. The settings, the gadgets, the fast pace of the books kept me glued to this book. ( I accomplished a bag of huge laundry.... grrrr).
So what was wrong with the characters( I should use their names.....Conrad and Jayne.)? They were separated despite being so totally in love with each other. The reason being lack of honesty from Conrad's side. He was an undercover agent and he could not tell her that.
How they overcome it? That is for you guys to find out :) ( On a second thought will a Mills and Boon have it any other way......).
Check out the review @
http://www.tbcblogtours.com/tbc-blog/...
June 1, 2013
This story is all about taking risks... On Conrad Hughes' part, he risked his marriage for his undercover job... On Jayne's part, she risks having a broken heart the second time around... Jayne walked out of Conrads life 3years ago to prove a point to herself--that her husband is keeping secrets from her and doesnt love her as much as she think he does... Conrad is also stupid for not coming after her... even after 3years. not a shadow, a single note or a call... If i was Jayne, I would've given up the first 6months.. but she waited 3years, so it does have to count for something... Its obvious she loves Conrad... otherwise she wouldn't be hurting inside... Conrad could've dealt with his marriage differently... he should've trusted his wife more and didn't keep secrets fro
her especially when it involves your marriage... The only consolation is he was faithful to her even when he's surrounded by gorgeous women..and its a big deal considering who is he is....All they lack is communication.. every relationship must have an open and honest communication... In the end, When it all comes down to it, the heart will always get its way...They realize one isnt complete without the other and finally worked through their problems..
her especially when it involves your marriage... The only consolation is he was faithful to her even when he's surrounded by gorgeous women..and its a big deal considering who is he is....All they lack is communication.. every relationship must have an open and honest communication... In the end, When it all comes down to it, the heart will always get its way...They realize one isnt complete without the other and finally worked through their problems..
February 4, 2013
I liked the first book in this series, it was like watching a Bond movie but with an actual romance and this series has a good potential, but I would prefer if this book had a dangerous side since the begin.
We’ve met Conrad and he’s a very good man, but he still misses his wife and cannot accept the break-up, and that is really strange when you realize that he was hiding his missions from her and just wanted her to believe in him faithfully while he fought evil around the world.
I liked Jayne and even preferred her over Conrad, because she was just a girl trying to be happy and have a normal life. Their relationship was pure passion, but the lies were breaking them apart and I understand her leaving.
I liked the reconnection and Conrad showing his soft side while trying to save Jayne from a bad guy who discovered his identity. It was interesting seeing these two learning about the life they could have had if they were honest and up front about feelings. It was a nice book, but I prefer the first one in this series.
We’ve met Conrad and he’s a very good man, but he still misses his wife and cannot accept the break-up, and that is really strange when you realize that he was hiding his missions from her and just wanted her to believe in him faithfully while he fought evil around the world.
I liked Jayne and even preferred her over Conrad, because she was just a girl trying to be happy and have a normal life. Their relationship was pure passion, but the lies were breaking them apart and I understand her leaving.
I liked the reconnection and Conrad showing his soft side while trying to save Jayne from a bad guy who discovered his identity. It was interesting seeing these two learning about the life they could have had if they were honest and up front about feelings. It was a nice book, but I prefer the first one in this series.
March 16, 2013
All or Nothing is book two in The Alpha Brotherhood series. In All or Nothing we get a closer look at the smart one of the group. Conrad, or as Jayne would call him The Sean Conary Bond. Yes you will have to read the book to understand.
This was a quick good read. We learn a lot more about The Alpha Brotherhood’s history and get to meet a few new members too. Which means more books right?
I really enjoyed reading about Conrad & Jayne’s history and present. Both are so stinking stubborn and like thing just so. But nothing is perfect in life of love and these two have to learn that the hard way. But will this second chance at love last?
Guest you will have to read the book to find out :)
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com
This was a quick good read. We learn a lot more about The Alpha Brotherhood’s history and get to meet a few new members too. Which means more books right?
I really enjoyed reading about Conrad & Jayne’s history and present. Both are so stinking stubborn and like thing just so. But nothing is perfect in life of love and these two have to learn that the hard way. But will this second chance at love last?
Guest you will have to read the book to find out :)
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com
November 14, 2014
It's been a while sine the last time I read good Harlequin books. I enjoyed it so much.
Jayne's so sick of his husband's secretive attitude. They've been married for seven years, yet it's like she didn't know him at all. And everything got worse when his husband, Conrad went MIA for three years. Jayne can't take it anymore, so she filed for divorce. But apparently Conrad's not ready to let go. He'll do anything to keep her in his bed, under his roof. But what will happen when his secret ruins it all?
Conrad's such a reasonable guy, in my opinion. It's one of the moment when I didn't hate the Hero of Harlequin books at all. I just want to hug him so bad. While Jayne's decision is definitely make sense, I wish Conrad would treat her so much better in the future.
Overall good book and I look forward to read another Catherine Mann's books!
Jayne's so sick of his husband's secretive attitude. They've been married for seven years, yet it's like she didn't know him at all. And everything got worse when his husband, Conrad went MIA for three years. Jayne can't take it anymore, so she filed for divorce. But apparently Conrad's not ready to let go. He'll do anything to keep her in his bed, under his roof. But what will happen when his secret ruins it all?
Conrad's such a reasonable guy, in my opinion. It's one of the moment when I didn't hate the Hero of Harlequin books at all. I just want to hug him so bad. While Jayne's decision is definitely make sense, I wish Conrad would treat her so much better in the future.
Overall good book and I look forward to read another Catherine Mann's books!
December 23, 2013
When Jayne came to Monte Carlo to get her husband Conrad Hughes to sign their divorce papers, he convinced her to give him one more night. But Jayne is fed up with his sudden and unexplained absences for extended periods of time, no explanations offered and his lies. Little does she know that his ownership of a successful casino is really a cover for his work for Interpol and that he's really a very successful one at that. Now he has one last chance to convince her to stay together.
February 26, 2013
I love a good fantasy spy story, and this book works. The writing was impeccable, and I enjoyed the story.
However, I would've liked a bit more than, "Oh, looks like you were safe after all."
I know this wasn't an 'Intrigue' title, so I really shouldn't pick nits. A little more peril would have added an extra dimension, taking this tale to a higher level.
A fun, quick, semi-light read.
However, I would've liked a bit more than, "Oh, looks like you were safe after all."
I know this wasn't an 'Intrigue' title, so I really shouldn't pick nits. A little more peril would have added an extra dimension, taking this tale to a higher level.
A fun, quick, semi-light read.
March 25, 2013
A compelling look at a very troubled marriage and a set of circumstances that are far more complicated than first seemed to be the case. Another fine story from Catherine Mann, and not one of your light-hearted stories that many equate with a Harlequin of the past. This one hits below the belt and keeps the tension going from start to finish.
April 5, 2013
I've never read the first novel in the series but reading this one was good. I didn't feel lost at all, it could of been a stand alone. The hero was a douchebag for lying to his wife, the heroine for so long though.
March 16, 2014
Actually the book made me want to clout the hero over his head for being such a dumb guy. But this book gets a full 5 stars just because in todays day and age of instant gratification the hero is faithful and true to his marriage vows...for three long years.. OH!... what a guy.
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