This is the first multicultural romance I’ve read by C.L.
Donley, and I found her style to be simple, realistic, and engaging. The novel
is more character-driven than plot-driven, which makes for an intriguing read.

Meet Anita Parker, a 38-year-old personal
assistant to eccentric CEO Jonathan Jantzen. After six years of navigating his
demanding personality and efficiently managing his business, Anita is surprised
when, just as she’s offered her dream job as a forensic investigator, Jonathan
counters with a marriage proposal. The catch? It’s a six-month arrangement.

Anita throws herself into planning a “big
ass” wedding, complete with all the bells and whistles—venue, dress, cake, and
more. She and Jonathan begin their staged romance, practicing affection in
public while only a select few of Jonathan’s friends know the truth. However,
things shift when a date and a candid discussion about their past Relationships
reveal the emotional baggage, they both carry. They’re afraid to be vulnerable,
and neither is sure if they’re ready to embrace real love.

Overall, this was
a quick and enjoyable read. There were a few slow and occasionally confusing
moments, but I found it entertaining. While Jonathan’s motives for the marriage
felt a bit selfish, I couldn’t blame Anita for going along—who wouldn’t be tempted
to marry a millionaire? In the end, it all worked out, and they got their
happily ever after. A good read.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Some of my favorite lines:

He shifted in his chair a bit, letting out a
long huff. “Look, I know my strategy might look… desperate. Drastic. But I
value you, Anita. And value and love are the same.”

My heartbeat lunged. Was he saying he loved
me? Even platonically speaking it was enough to floor me.

“I haven’t asked you once how you feel about
me,” he continued. “And it’s not because I already know, because I don’t.”

I licked my lips, suddenly shy. Suddenly
realizing we were holding hands. 

Originally Published on https://vocalexpressions.blogspot.com

Deliah Lawrence Attorney, Author, Blogger, Workshop Facilitator

Deliah Lawrence is a Maryland-based attorney and award-winning author of two romantic suspense novels (Gotta Let It Go and Gotta Get It Back) set in Baltimore. She’s also a blogger and workshop facilitator who writes poetry and short stories.

When Deliah isn’t writing, you can find her reading a book, indulging in her addiction to investigation discovery shows; or painting her yet-to-be exhibited oil artworks of landscapes, portraits or whatever else comes to her creative mind. Constantly on the go, she is also a member of the Black Writers’ Guild of Maryland and Sisters in Crime.