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Cruel #7
Cruel King
A new stand alone fake relationship romance set in the glitz and glamour of the Cruel world from USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde...
The most eligible bachelor in New York City just asked me to be his fake fiancé.
Gavin King is six and a half feet of delectable billionaire with a devil’s smile that says he knows exactly what he’s going to do to me later. Because he has.
Three years ago, I caught him in the shower and promptly fell into his bed. But neither of us were relationship material. Not to mention I’d just broken up with his best friend.
Now, I’m back in the city and he has a plan:
Go to his cousin’s wedding.
Convince his family that he’s not an eternal bachelor.
Post a huge elaborate break up later.
With those big puppy dog eyes begging me to agree, claiming I’m the only one who can pull it off, I say yes. What could go wrong? Other than pulling it off so successfully that the line between real and fake blurs.
When my family flips the whole script, I can’t see a way out. And I’m starting to wonder if I even want one.
The most eligible bachelor in New York City just asked me to be his fake fiancé.
Gavin King is six and a half feet of delectable billionaire with a devil’s smile that says he knows exactly what he’s going to do to me later. Because he has.
Three years ago, I caught him in the shower and promptly fell into his bed. But neither of us were relationship material. Not to mention I’d just broken up with his best friend.
Now, I’m back in the city and he has a plan:
Go to his cousin’s wedding.
Convince his family that he’s not an eternal bachelor.
Post a huge elaborate break up later.
With those big puppy dog eyes begging me to agree, claiming I’m the only one who can pull it off, I say yes. What could go wrong? Other than pulling it off so successfully that the line between real and fake blurs.
When my family flips the whole script, I can’t see a way out. And I’m starting to wonder if I even want one.
ebook
First published March 28, 2023
About the author
K.A. Linde
90 books9,662 followersK.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of the Avoiding Series, Wrights, and more than thirty other novels. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
March 8, 2023
5 stars
Have you ever started a book and just knew it was going to be epic? That’s how I felt with Cruel King. I was obsessed with Gavin and Whitley from the start and I knew this would be a five star favorite for me pretty early on.
If you’ve read the prequel, Cruel Kiss and the rest of the ‘Cruel’ books, you’ve been anticipating Whitley and Gavin like me. Whitley has been in LA working for a few years and she’s back in NYC. I loved the moment she first saw Gavin again after those years.
Gavin and Whitley have always been friends. Each others wingman/wingwoman if you will. But things are different now. It starts with a fake date between them, then quickly turns into a fake fiancé. The feelings between them may have been hidden, but they’ve never been fake.
Whitley was such a boss and I loved how unapologetically herself she was. Gavin was such a fun character and my favorite hero of this series, after Camden Percy of course. My favorite part of this book was how much Gavin loved Whit for who she was. He never tried to tame her or change her, he just loved her for her.
Linde always writes the best angsty romances, and this did have some angst but it was also fun, romantic, and steamy. I highly recommend!
Have you ever started a book and just knew it was going to be epic? That’s how I felt with Cruel King. I was obsessed with Gavin and Whitley from the start and I knew this would be a five star favorite for me pretty early on.
If you’ve read the prequel, Cruel Kiss and the rest of the ‘Cruel’ books, you’ve been anticipating Whitley and Gavin like me. Whitley has been in LA working for a few years and she’s back in NYC. I loved the moment she first saw Gavin again after those years.
Gavin and Whitley have always been friends. Each others wingman/wingwoman if you will. But things are different now. It starts with a fake date between them, then quickly turns into a fake fiancé. The feelings between them may have been hidden, but they’ve never been fake.
Whitley was such a boss and I loved how unapologetically herself she was. Gavin was such a fun character and my favorite hero of this series, after Camden Percy of course. My favorite part of this book was how much Gavin loved Whit for who she was. He never tried to tame her or change her, he just loved her for her.
Linde always writes the best angsty romances, and this did have some angst but it was also fun, romantic, and steamy. I highly recommend!
Audio book source: Soundwise (audio arc)
Story Rating: 5 stars
Narrators: Joe Arden & Erin Mallon
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Romance
April 17, 2023
This read was fun and sexy and it made you laugh.
The way this couple was re-introduced was funny as all get out it made us laugh out loud the belly laugh kind. The characters were supportive and amazing.
Whitley was our favorite character as she was out going a jokster knows how to make people laugh and she has this larger than life attitude. She loves bold and shocking hair colors that make Whitley who Whitley is. Beside being gun shy when it comes to relationships she is comfortable in her own skin and owns her bold choices she makes in appearance and life. She never apologizes for who she really is.
Gavin was smart and sexy and tons of fun. We would have to agree that Gavin had a solid plan to win back his girl and win her heart. Loved this couples chemistry their teasing and banter with one another made you laugh. The thing we loved about Gavin the most is that he love Whitey just they way she was hair choices and all.
Overall it was a fun read that made you laugh most of the book. Their past together and their dalliance was hot and sexy but, neither at that point were looking to settle down it was all about timing for them however it is the right time to win back your girl.. They are perfect together they just need to work out a few kinks before they get their happily ever after, Loved it!
The way this couple was re-introduced was funny as all get out it made us laugh out loud the belly laugh kind. The characters were supportive and amazing.
Whitley was our favorite character as she was out going a jokster knows how to make people laugh and she has this larger than life attitude. She loves bold and shocking hair colors that make Whitley who Whitley is. Beside being gun shy when it comes to relationships she is comfortable in her own skin and owns her bold choices she makes in appearance and life. She never apologizes for who she really is.
Gavin was smart and sexy and tons of fun. We would have to agree that Gavin had a solid plan to win back his girl and win her heart. Loved this couples chemistry their teasing and banter with one another made you laugh. The thing we loved about Gavin the most is that he love Whitey just they way she was hair choices and all.
Overall it was a fun read that made you laugh most of the book. Their past together and their dalliance was hot and sexy but, neither at that point were looking to settle down it was all about timing for them however it is the right time to win back your girl.. They are perfect together they just need to work out a few kinks before they get their happily ever after, Loved it!
May 2, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.After getting a taste of how great Whitley and Gavin were together in Cruel Kiss, I couldn’t wait to find out what transpired after their fling in Puerto Rico. So I dove into Cruel King with the hope of satisfying my curiosity. It did not disappoint. In Cruel King Linde gave her readers a steamy, emotional and swoon worthy fake relationship and friends to lovers romance.
Gavin and Whitley shared an undeniable connection three (3) years ago. However, Whitley's fear of being bad at relationships led to her moving to Los Angeles. A change in circumstances would see her returning to New York City forcing her to face her past and the man she ran from.
Gavin, ever the playboy had no desire to settle down. However, after spending three years without his wingman he knew he wanted more than just one night stands. Whitley's return opened his eyes to his true feelings, if only he could convince her to give a relationship between them a chance. His plan, ask her to pose as his girlfriend for a wedding for a family member in Texas with the hope she would come to realise they were meant to be. Whitley agrees, but like all things that are built on lies his plan takes a disastrous turn.
I went into Cruel King expecting a cute romance, but I got so much more. Prepare for a story that will tug on your heart in the best of ways and leaves you smiling at the end. Gavin and Whitley shared similar traits making them perfect for each other. They knew each other well and they accepted each other for who they were, quirks and all. Never once did they attempt to change each other. The chemistry between them lit up the pages. Anyone who knew them and saw them together could see how much they were into each other. However, as they failed to see what everyone else saw.
I had fun revisiting this world and catching up with the characters from the previous books in this series. Characters from the author's Wright series also made a cameo appearance.
A wonderful story of hope, love, friendship and second chances, Cruel King hit all the spots. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Gavin and Whitley shared an undeniable connection three (3) years ago. However, Whitley's fear of being bad at relationships led to her moving to Los Angeles. A change in circumstances would see her returning to New York City forcing her to face her past and the man she ran from.
Gavin, ever the playboy had no desire to settle down. However, after spending three years without his wingman he knew he wanted more than just one night stands. Whitley's return opened his eyes to his true feelings, if only he could convince her to give a relationship between them a chance. His plan, ask her to pose as his girlfriend for a wedding for a family member in Texas with the hope she would come to realise they were meant to be. Whitley agrees, but like all things that are built on lies his plan takes a disastrous turn.
I went into Cruel King expecting a cute romance, but I got so much more. Prepare for a story that will tug on your heart in the best of ways and leaves you smiling at the end. Gavin and Whitley shared similar traits making them perfect for each other. They knew each other well and they accepted each other for who they were, quirks and all. Never once did they attempt to change each other. The chemistry between them lit up the pages. Anyone who knew them and saw them together could see how much they were into each other. However, as they failed to see what everyone else saw.
I had fun revisiting this world and catching up with the characters from the previous books in this series. Characters from the author's Wright series also made a cameo appearance.
A wonderful story of hope, love, friendship and second chances, Cruel King hit all the spots. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
March 28, 2023
5 stars!
Cruel King is the final book in the Cruel series by K.A. Linde and features Whitley and Gavin. I love fake relationship romances so this one was right up my alley and it did not disappoint. Whitley was Gavin’s wingman for years and then one night they crossed the line. Unable to handle the fallout, Whitley left New York for the L.A. with no intention of coming back. But three years later, she finds herself back in the city and back near the man she ran from.
Whitley and Gavin have mutual friends so it doesn’t take long before these two are forced to spend time together. Since they were friends before, they fall back into a friendship easily; however, a friendship is all they can be because Whitley knows she is bad girlfriend material and Gavin is the most eligible bachelor of NY. As long as they don’t cross the line again, everything will be fine.
When Gavin needs a fake girlfriend to take to his cousins wedding, Whitley steps up. It’s easy to pretend because she knows him so well but pretending is all it can be. Yet, Whitley and Gavin have sizzling chemistry from the get go so when you put these two together as a fake couple, things don’t look fake. It’s easy because it’s not real. Then, her family throws them a curve ball and everything changes.
I really enjoyed Whitley and Gavin’s love story. It’s full of fun and playful moments but also gives us heart and emotion. When Whitley runs into Gavin and you can tell there is something there even if they don’t know it yet. You can feel their familiarity and they have a great time together. I loved how they rekindle their friendship and was so excited when Gavin finally asks Whitley to be his fake girlfriend because I really wanted to see these two end up together.
Gavin and Whitley are fun and flirtatious. I felt their attraction and how much they mean to each other even when they deny their feelings and try to rationalize why they didn’t work out in the past and why they can’t be together now. They definitely turn up the heat when they finally admit they want each other.
From the fake feelings becoming real to the dreaded fallout I was anticipating, I didn’t know what was going to happen with Gavin and Whitley. And when the story takes turns I didn’t see coming, I was already invested and could not put the book down. It was not as angsty as some of Linde’s other books but I am actually thankful because everything that happened felt real and believable and there wasn't just drama for the sake of it. The ending felt a little rushed but I could see why it transpired the way it did because of the enormity of how Whitley and Gavin felt. We are also given an epilogue that brings everyone in the Cruel World together again closing this series with a smile on my face.
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marking Solutions*
Cruel King is the final book in the Cruel series by K.A. Linde and features Whitley and Gavin. I love fake relationship romances so this one was right up my alley and it did not disappoint. Whitley was Gavin’s wingman for years and then one night they crossed the line. Unable to handle the fallout, Whitley left New York for the L.A. with no intention of coming back. But three years later, she finds herself back in the city and back near the man she ran from.
Whitley and Gavin have mutual friends so it doesn’t take long before these two are forced to spend time together. Since they were friends before, they fall back into a friendship easily; however, a friendship is all they can be because Whitley knows she is bad girlfriend material and Gavin is the most eligible bachelor of NY. As long as they don’t cross the line again, everything will be fine.
When Gavin needs a fake girlfriend to take to his cousins wedding, Whitley steps up. It’s easy to pretend because she knows him so well but pretending is all it can be. Yet, Whitley and Gavin have sizzling chemistry from the get go so when you put these two together as a fake couple, things don’t look fake. It’s easy because it’s not real. Then, her family throws them a curve ball and everything changes.
I really enjoyed Whitley and Gavin’s love story. It’s full of fun and playful moments but also gives us heart and emotion. When Whitley runs into Gavin and you can tell there is something there even if they don’t know it yet. You can feel their familiarity and they have a great time together. I loved how they rekindle their friendship and was so excited when Gavin finally asks Whitley to be his fake girlfriend because I really wanted to see these two end up together.
Gavin looked down at me with that same wicked smile I’d fallen for three years ago before I screwed it all up. I could easily fall again. I was hardly acting with any of it. Gavin and I fit into each other’s world. We always had. First as friends and then as more, and now, even pretending, we seemed to fit just fine.
Gavin and Whitley are fun and flirtatious. I felt their attraction and how much they mean to each other even when they deny their feelings and try to rationalize why they didn’t work out in the past and why they can’t be together now. They definitely turn up the heat when they finally admit they want each other.
From the fake feelings becoming real to the dreaded fallout I was anticipating, I didn’t know what was going to happen with Gavin and Whitley. And when the story takes turns I didn’t see coming, I was already invested and could not put the book down. It was not as angsty as some of Linde’s other books but I am actually thankful because everything that happened felt real and believable and there wasn't just drama for the sake of it. The ending felt a little rushed but I could see why it transpired the way it did because of the enormity of how Whitley and Gavin felt. We are also given an epilogue that brings everyone in the Cruel World together again closing this series with a smile on my face.
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marking Solutions*
April 14, 2023
I adored this audiobook! I was so excited for the rest of Gavin and Whitley's story after listening to Cruel Kiss and I loved every minute of it! I enjoyed these characters so much. The way they were both players and didn't want to be in a relationship, to how they ended up fake engaged, to actually together. The story was just such a fun ride. I haven't listened to anything else in the Cruel world by Linde and this audiobook makes me want to listen to all of the character's stories! The narrators were perfect for Gavin and Whit. I loved listening to this book!
April 5, 2023
Cruel King had me feeling all kind of emotions !
I was rooting for Gavin and Whit but Gavin… he’s a man of my own heart. I love how he tried hard to keep Whit by his side … at any costs and he was such a romantic!
“Gavin King was a rogue and a rake and a playboy. Gentleman was the last thing that anyone would ever call him.”
The scenes with his family made me feel like I knew them all and I wanted to be be there and listen to love me tender…
In a nutshell, Whit is a commitment phobe, she prefers the role of wingman. It started like this until the line was crossed and she ran away … When Gavin sees her years later… he knew that she was the one who ran away but how could he make her realise this?
When I finished, it gave me that warm fuzzy feeling that the end of a good film gives.
I was very excited to delve back into this series, with our favourites characters- I just love Katherine
This book was Swoonworthy, Spicy and ADDICTIVE!!
I was rooting for Gavin and Whit but Gavin… he’s a man of my own heart. I love how he tried hard to keep Whit by his side … at any costs and he was such a romantic!
“Gavin King was a rogue and a rake and a playboy. Gentleman was the last thing that anyone would ever call him.”
The scenes with his family made me feel like I knew them all and I wanted to be be there and listen to love me tender…
In a nutshell, Whit is a commitment phobe, she prefers the role of wingman. It started like this until the line was crossed and she ran away … When Gavin sees her years later… he knew that she was the one who ran away but how could he make her realise this?
When I finished, it gave me that warm fuzzy feeling that the end of a good film gives.
I was very excited to delve back into this series, with our favourites characters- I just love Katherine
This book was Swoonworthy, Spicy and ADDICTIVE!!
April 21, 2023
I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm gonna miss these characters. Really loved the group of friends it focused on (minus NataliexPenn and The Crew), and I wouldn't mind some extra scenes with them. Can't believe I got that attached, lmaoo.
When it comes to this story, I thought it was a pretty good combo of friends to lovers and fake engaged. Overall, I enjoyed Whitley's and Gavin's antics, but I gotta admit, while I love a self-sabotaging heroine, Whitley's whole "I'm a bad girlfriend" routine got old pretty fast, it was just overdone.
The drama at the end was also over-the-top, like everything happening all at once. Still, all in all, I enjoyed this one, and despite the slow start, liked the series as a whole.
When it comes to this story, I thought it was a pretty good combo of friends to lovers and fake engaged. Overall, I enjoyed Whitley's and Gavin's antics, but I gotta admit, while I love a self-sabotaging heroine, Whitley's whole "I'm a bad girlfriend" routine got old pretty fast, it was just overdone.
The drama at the end was also over-the-top, like everything happening all at once. Still, all in all, I enjoyed this one, and despite the slow start, liked the series as a whole.
March 28, 2023
Gavin King let Whitley walk away once before and regretted it. His plan to make her his fake date for his cousin's wedding brings them back together again. Will Gavin let Whitley go a second time?
Cruel King involves three of my favorite tropes -- friends to lovers, right guy, wrong time, and he falls first. For this couple, it was clear they were right for each other, but could they get out of their way to see how perfect they are together? Before seeing how right they are for each other, they must deal with secrets, forgiveness, and acceptance. The best part of their story is how Gavin never tried to change Whitley, who had always been told she was too much.
And there are so many great characters in Cruel King! I loved how the previous couples in this series are involved in Gavin and Whitley's road to happiness. I enjoyed reading about all of them again. Side note, you don't have to read the other books in the series before reading Cruel King; it is a true standalone. The introduction of Gavin and Whitley's families added even more interesting side characters with compelling backstories. I can't wait to read more about the extended King family!
Check out Cruel King to discover what happens when an eternal bachelor falls for a rebel heartbreaker!
I received a gifted copy of this book.
Cruel King involves three of my favorite tropes -- friends to lovers, right guy, wrong time, and he falls first. For this couple, it was clear they were right for each other, but could they get out of their way to see how perfect they are together? Before seeing how right they are for each other, they must deal with secrets, forgiveness, and acceptance. The best part of their story is how Gavin never tried to change Whitley, who had always been told she was too much.
And there are so many great characters in Cruel King! I loved how the previous couples in this series are involved in Gavin and Whitley's road to happiness. I enjoyed reading about all of them again. Side note, you don't have to read the other books in the series before reading Cruel King; it is a true standalone. The introduction of Gavin and Whitley's families added even more interesting side characters with compelling backstories. I can't wait to read more about the extended King family!
Check out Cruel King to discover what happens when an eternal bachelor falls for a rebel heartbreaker!
I received a gifted copy of this book.
October 6, 2023
I'm not convinced they were for each other. Whitley flitted from relationship to relationship. When her and Gavin hooked up, while they were on vacation, they decided to see where it would take them. Then it was 3 years later and you left wondering what happened.
Why did she run and now why is she back. Gavin takes advantage and comes up with a plan to keep Whitley in his life.
Of course they have a few obstacles in their way but finally get their HEA.
I was a bit disappointed that out of all of the couples in this series that Katherine and Camryn were the only ones to start a family or was just not mentioned for the others.
Why did she run and now why is she back. Gavin takes advantage and comes up with a plan to keep Whitley in his life.
Of course they have a few obstacles in their way but finally get their HEA.
I was a bit disappointed that out of all of the couples in this series that Katherine and Camryn were the only ones to start a family or was just not mentioned for the others.
March 18, 2023
Friends to lovers
Fake relationship
Billionaire romance
This is your classic, right person wrong time. When Gavin and Whitley crash back into each others lives they begin to fake date. It’s clear they both have feelings even from the beginning.
Gavin being known as the bachelor decides having a fake relationship with Whitley will clean up his image. It’s never long before a fake relationship blooms into a real one especially when feelings are there from the start.
This is my first book of the series I enjoyed it. English is probably the best side character/bestie I’ve read lately.
Fake relationship
Billionaire romance
This is your classic, right person wrong time. When Gavin and Whitley crash back into each others lives they begin to fake date. It’s clear they both have feelings even from the beginning.
Gavin being known as the bachelor decides having a fake relationship with Whitley will clean up his image. It’s never long before a fake relationship blooms into a real one especially when feelings are there from the start.
This is my first book of the series I enjoyed it. English is probably the best side character/bestie I’ve read lately.
March 29, 2023
Gavin and Whitley!!! OMG!! YES!!
That's it – can that be my review?!
The blurb is all you need to jump into this one. If you have read any of Linde's books previously, you know that you are getting steam and angst!
If you read Cruel Kiss, then you have some background on the chemistry between Gavin and Whitley. If you didn't – no need, but you will want to. Trust me!
I love these two. I want to say so much. I love how they are so alike and yet fit so well together. GAH!!
Go read this one!
That's it – can that be my review?!
The blurb is all you need to jump into this one. If you have read any of Linde's books previously, you know that you are getting steam and angst!
If you read Cruel Kiss, then you have some background on the chemistry between Gavin and Whitley. If you didn't – no need, but you will want to. Trust me!
I love these two. I want to say so much. I love how they are so alike and yet fit so well together. GAH!!
Go read this one!
March 19, 2023
This was the first book I’ve read in this series.
I wasn’t disappointed but I also wasn’t in love with it.
It’s a friends to lovers fake relationship trope.
I liked the banter a lot.
I loved that Gavin never tried to tame Whitley, he accepted her and was there for her in many ways. It was adorable. Major points for Gavin.
Their connection was undeniable from the start.
I loved them together.
If you like these tropes then I’d recommend this book.
I wasn’t disappointed but I also wasn’t in love with it.
It’s a friends to lovers fake relationship trope.
I liked the banter a lot.
I loved that Gavin never tried to tame Whitley, he accepted her and was there for her in many ways. It was adorable. Major points for Gavin.
Their connection was undeniable from the start.
I loved them together.
If you like these tropes then I’d recommend this book.
March 27, 2023
After listening to the prequel, Cruel Kiss, I was excited to see where Gavin and Whitley’s story went.
Gavin and Whitley had parted ways three years ago, sometime after spending vacation together in Puerto Rico with their friends. When they see each other again, Gavin proposes a fake engagement idea so he can show his family that he is settling down -- at least that's the excuse he gives her; in reality, he just wants to be with her for real.
There were emotional moments and some twists for both Whitley and Gavin. Through it all, Gavin is so sweet and caring towards Whitley, supporting her and trying to show her that she is better than she perceives herself to be. Whitley seems carefree and is a huge flirt, but she also has a vulnerable side. While they are both afraid of being in a relationship, the chemistry between them is undeniable.
Gavin and Whitley had parted ways three years ago, sometime after spending vacation together in Puerto Rico with their friends. When they see each other again, Gavin proposes a fake engagement idea so he can show his family that he is settling down -- at least that's the excuse he gives her; in reality, he just wants to be with her for real.
There were emotional moments and some twists for both Whitley and Gavin. Through it all, Gavin is so sweet and caring towards Whitley, supporting her and trying to show her that she is better than she perceives herself to be. Whitley seems carefree and is a huge flirt, but she also has a vulnerable side. While they are both afraid of being in a relationship, the chemistry between them is undeniable.
March 24, 2023
Stars: 3.75
CAWPILE: 8.00
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 7.5
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8.5
Spicy: 2
Contains: Billionaire Rom, Fake Date/Engagement/Marriage, Friends to Lovers, Playboy
TW: Cheating (not MCs)
Cruel King is the 7th in the Cruel series by K.A. Linde.
I loved the banter between Gavin and Whitley. The fact that he never tried to ""tame"" Whitley and what're her to stay true to herself! That's top tier husband material!!
CAWPILE: 8.00
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 7.5
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8.5
Spicy: 2
Contains: Billionaire Rom, Fake Date/Engagement/Marriage, Friends to Lovers, Playboy
TW: Cheating (not MCs)
Cruel King is the 7th in the Cruel series by K.A. Linde.
I loved the banter between Gavin and Whitley. The fact that he never tried to ""tame"" Whitley and what're her to stay true to herself! That's top tier husband material!!
March 28, 2023
I am so, so sad to see this series end. This story was absolute perfection, and I enjoyed seeing all the characters from the past books. This series has definitely been placed in my top favorite ones. Highly recommend!
March 31, 2023
Abso-freaking-lutley LOVED Gavin King!
I have been waiting for Gavin and Whitney’s story and just let me tell you that they didn’t not disappoint me one bit.
I have been waiting for Gavin and Whitney’s story and just let me tell you that they didn’t not disappoint me one bit.
May 7, 2023
OH MY BOO BEARS OMG I CANT BELIEVE I FINALLY READ THEIR BOOK!!!
Enjoyed this so much you gotta love the comic relief/party animals characters getting together 🤍
Enjoyed this so much you gotta love the comic relief/party animals characters getting together 🤍
March 29, 2023
I can say I absolutely loved Gavin!!! The way that Whitley ran away from him and now that she’s back but still kinda running away from him he’s determined to make sure she stops without her even really noticing it. Super super cute
March 28, 2023
Well I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either. It was ok. I really liked the story plot, and the fake fiancé trope, and I loved Gavin. But I just couldn’t connect with or like Whitley. Her constant running, and her “I’m a bad girlfriend” felt like excuses to me. Every time things got tough she ran. When she broke up with her boyfriend she slept with his best friend (Gavin), then returned home & went back to her boyfriend, and when he found out she slept with his friend she ran- to the other side of the country. Then she dated a girl in CA who she ran from when she thought her girlfriend cheated. Gavin couldn’t have been more clearer about his feelings, but for some reason she didn’t want to see it. She didn’t like cheaters or liars yet she was both, she may have thought she was broken up with her ex when she slept with Gavin, but he certainly didn’t- he thought it was just a break while she was on vacation, & she joked about stealing her brother’s girlfriend. Then at the end, instead of telling Gavin about her ex girlfriend showing up, she lied.
I just couldn’t connect with her character. Everyone else in the book I enjoyed, their friends were great- they all saw the connection between Gavin & Whitley. And Gavin was absolutely perfect. For being labeled a playboy, I never got that impression- especially when he hadn’t been with anyone in months.
Good book, just didn’t like the mfc.
I just couldn’t connect with her character. Everyone else in the book I enjoyed, their friends were great- they all saw the connection between Gavin & Whitley. And Gavin was absolutely perfect. For being labeled a playboy, I never got that impression- especially when he hadn’t been with anyone in months.
Good book, just didn’t like the mfc.
Read
February 23, 2021Gavin and Queen Whit
August 18, 2023
Love this series. Can’t wait.
April 18, 2023
Honestly shocked that it has such a high rating. The writing felt immature and the story was just so cheesy and cliche.
March 22, 2023
4.25stars—CRUEL KING is the seventh instalment in KA Linde’s contemporary, adult CRUEL erotic, romance series focusing on a tight knit group of connected, powerful and well-to-do friends in the Upper East Side of New York City.. This is billionaire businessman Gavin King, and plastic surgeon Whitley Bowen. CRUEL KING can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the novella /short story CRUEL KISS in which Gavin and Whitley first get together.
SOME BACKGROUND: Three years earlier, Whitley Bowen had just broken up with her boyfriend Robert minutes before they set out on their Puerto Rican vacation. Whitley wasn’t feeling their relationship, and when Robert backed out of the group vacation, our heroine took a stand announcing she was going alone. Hoping fro a vacation fling, Whitley never expected to find herself with Robert’s best friend Gavin King, the man who has lusted after Whitley from afar. Gavin King wanted something more from Whitley Bowen, but Whitley ran without looking back.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gavin and Whitley) CRUEL KING fast forwards the series approximately three years. Dr. Whitley Bowen has accepted a position in New York bringing her back to the friends she left behind including the man who had stolen her heart but with the approach of wedding season, Whitley finds herself the pretend girlfriend and fiance of Gavin King, the man she left behind without looking back. Gavin King never forgot about the woman that ran after their weekend in Puerto Rico but needing a plus one for a family wedding pushed Gavin to claim Whitley as his heart and his future. Everything begins to spiral out of control when both families begin preparations for our couple’s eventual nuptials, preparations fast forwarded with the announcement of an ill family member. What ensues is the fake engagement and building relationship between Gavin and Whitley, and the potential fall-out when the families discover everything began as a ruse.
The relationship between Gavin and Whitley begins as a vacation fling that ends with Whitley walking away.Three years will pass before Whitley arrives back in New York, surprising everyone including the man she left behind. Gavin has never forgotten about the woman who stole his heart but Whitley struggles with what happened and why. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
All of the previous story line couples return as secondary and supporting characters:Camden and Katherine, Anna and Court, Larkin and Sam, and Whitley’s ex Robert and his new girlfriend Harmony. We are introduced to both Gavin’s parents Julianne and Edmond King, and Whitley’s parents Cynthia and Walter Bowen, as well as Whitley’s brother Wyatt, and the return of Penn and Natalie. There is some family drama with Gavin’s cousin Margaret, and Micah and Merritt Locke.
CRUEL KING is a story of secrets and lies, passion and understanding, forgiveness and love. The premise is entertaining and satisfying; the romance is provocative and intense; the characters are numerous and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
SOME BACKGROUND: Three years earlier, Whitley Bowen had just broken up with her boyfriend Robert minutes before they set out on their Puerto Rican vacation. Whitley wasn’t feeling their relationship, and when Robert backed out of the group vacation, our heroine took a stand announcing she was going alone. Hoping fro a vacation fling, Whitley never expected to find herself with Robert’s best friend Gavin King, the man who has lusted after Whitley from afar. Gavin King wanted something more from Whitley Bowen, but Whitley ran without looking back.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gavin and Whitley) CRUEL KING fast forwards the series approximately three years. Dr. Whitley Bowen has accepted a position in New York bringing her back to the friends she left behind including the man who had stolen her heart but with the approach of wedding season, Whitley finds herself the pretend girlfriend and fiance of Gavin King, the man she left behind without looking back. Gavin King never forgot about the woman that ran after their weekend in Puerto Rico but needing a plus one for a family wedding pushed Gavin to claim Whitley as his heart and his future. Everything begins to spiral out of control when both families begin preparations for our couple’s eventual nuptials, preparations fast forwarded with the announcement of an ill family member. What ensues is the fake engagement and building relationship between Gavin and Whitley, and the potential fall-out when the families discover everything began as a ruse.
The relationship between Gavin and Whitley begins as a vacation fling that ends with Whitley walking away.Three years will pass before Whitley arrives back in New York, surprising everyone including the man she left behind. Gavin has never forgotten about the woman who stole his heart but Whitley struggles with what happened and why. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
All of the previous story line couples return as secondary and supporting characters:Camden and Katherine, Anna and Court, Larkin and Sam, and Whitley’s ex Robert and his new girlfriend Harmony. We are introduced to both Gavin’s parents Julianne and Edmond King, and Whitley’s parents Cynthia and Walter Bowen, as well as Whitley’s brother Wyatt, and the return of Penn and Natalie. There is some family drama with Gavin’s cousin Margaret, and Micah and Merritt Locke.
CRUEL KING is a story of secrets and lies, passion and understanding, forgiveness and love. The premise is entertaining and satisfying; the romance is provocative and intense; the characters are numerous and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 31, 2023
Cruel King is the seventh and sadly the final book in K.A. Linde's Cruel series and it's the couple we've all been waiting for, Gavin and Whitley's story!
Gavin and Whitley have been each other's wing man for many years, they don't have a typical friendship, they're flirty friends but it works for them. That is until they went on holiday three years ago and everything changed. The line they've been flirting with, they finally cross and it is so much more than they could of imagined. But when they return home, outside forces and Whitley's insecurities cause her to run to L.A which is where she stayed...until now!
Being back in New York, Whitley couldn't of imagined the feelings seeing Gavin King would evoke in her but that doesn't mean she's going to act on them.
Even though three years have passed Gavin hasn't been able to forget about his feisty pixie and seeing her again and finding out she's here to stay makes him even more determined to get her back in his arms.
Whitley is certain that her and Gavin are only meant to be friends and she is determined to keep it that way. But when Gavin needs her help to pretend to be his fake girlfriend for his cousin's wedding, at first Whitley says no she is a bad girlfriend, she cannot play this role but when Gavin talks her into being his fiancé instead as she's never been a fiancé before, how can she know if she'll be good or bad at it until she tries, so she finally accepts. Playing pretend is way too easy and being the centre of Gavin's world and all the attention and affection that comes with being his fiancé even if it's for his family's benefit has Whitley's mind racing and making her question her decision to just be friends. Also wearing his ring on her finger feels like it belongs there, that it should of always been there and a part of her, a big part never wants to take it off which only adds to her inner turmoil.
After returning home, Gavin and Whitley was not prepared for her family to step things up a notch with their fake engagement. Is this fake relationship going to get out of hand? Or will this be the push they needed? And when they do realise how real everything between them has come can they move past their past relationship hang-ups and everything else that is standing in their way and finally make it real?
"I couldn't get the words out that I needed to say to make this real. Because, without them, was this all as real as we claimed it was?"
Even though things started out as a ruse, have Gavin and Whitley unknowingly created something incredibly real and something equally as amazing?
Read Cruel King to find out!
I really enjoyed Cruel King, I could not put it down! I loved Whitley and Gavin they are such great characters that gripped me from the very start, well to be honest they've always intrigued me from the previous books in this addictive series! I cannot wait for what K.A Linde does next!
I received an arc of Cruel King and I am voluntarily leaving my review!
Gavin and Whitley have been each other's wing man for many years, they don't have a typical friendship, they're flirty friends but it works for them. That is until they went on holiday three years ago and everything changed. The line they've been flirting with, they finally cross and it is so much more than they could of imagined. But when they return home, outside forces and Whitley's insecurities cause her to run to L.A which is where she stayed...until now!
Being back in New York, Whitley couldn't of imagined the feelings seeing Gavin King would evoke in her but that doesn't mean she's going to act on them.
Even though three years have passed Gavin hasn't been able to forget about his feisty pixie and seeing her again and finding out she's here to stay makes him even more determined to get her back in his arms.
Whitley is certain that her and Gavin are only meant to be friends and she is determined to keep it that way. But when Gavin needs her help to pretend to be his fake girlfriend for his cousin's wedding, at first Whitley says no she is a bad girlfriend, she cannot play this role but when Gavin talks her into being his fiancé instead as she's never been a fiancé before, how can she know if she'll be good or bad at it until she tries, so she finally accepts. Playing pretend is way too easy and being the centre of Gavin's world and all the attention and affection that comes with being his fiancé even if it's for his family's benefit has Whitley's mind racing and making her question her decision to just be friends. Also wearing his ring on her finger feels like it belongs there, that it should of always been there and a part of her, a big part never wants to take it off which only adds to her inner turmoil.
After returning home, Gavin and Whitley was not prepared for her family to step things up a notch with their fake engagement. Is this fake relationship going to get out of hand? Or will this be the push they needed? And when they do realise how real everything between them has come can they move past their past relationship hang-ups and everything else that is standing in their way and finally make it real?
"I couldn't get the words out that I needed to say to make this real. Because, without them, was this all as real as we claimed it was?"
Even though things started out as a ruse, have Gavin and Whitley unknowingly created something incredibly real and something equally as amazing?
Read Cruel King to find out!
I really enjoyed Cruel King, I could not put it down! I loved Whitley and Gavin they are such great characters that gripped me from the very start, well to be honest they've always intrigued me from the previous books in this addictive series! I cannot wait for what K.A Linde does next!
I received an arc of Cruel King and I am voluntarily leaving my review!
March 28, 2023
First, let me tell you I recommend reading the prequel Cruel Kiss before reading this one. However, you don’t need to read the rest of the books of this series to jump into Cruel Kiss and Cruel King. I’ve been anticipating Gavin and Whitley’s story since meeting them in Cruel Truth! Couldn’t believe it when I finally got it on my Kindle!
I’ve loved Whitley from day one, so I knew I would love her through her story. Gavin could go either way, even though I always enjoyed his bromance with Court and his friendship with Camden. Fortunately, this story made me love Whitley even more and I fell in love with Gavin too!
Whitley and Gavin have been friends for a long time, they had an interesting dynamic even helping each other out to hook up with other people. After certain events, some of which were included in Cruel Kiss, Whitley left New York to work in LA and stayed there for a few years. The story in Cruel King picks up when Whitley comes back to New York and it was so fun following the events that led these two to fake an engagement!
Gavin always had feelings for Whitley, but he let her do her thing trying not to scare her, afraid she would run away. But he took all the opportunities he could to be closer and deepen their relationship. So, after Whitley finally came back to the city, he decided to ask her for help as his fake girlfriend/fiancé to make her fall for him too. Whitley had a difficult past, so falling in love was scary for her especially because she thought she sucked as a girlfriend. It was interesting how both of them were similar in some ways and so different in other aspects. That only made the dynamic between them funnier, steamier, and so freaking enjoyable.
Gavin was the sweetest! I loved how he loved Whitley just as she was through it all. Whitley will remain one of my favorite romance heroines, I truly understood her fear of being vulnerable and in love. Everything made perfect sense considering her upbringing, and her personality and I knew that things needed to reach a pivotal point.
However, my favorite book is still Cruel Desire (Court and Anna are my favorite couple! And Court remains my favorite character in this universe). The backstory between Gavin and Whitley could’ve played a larger role in this book. The reader is told about what happened after the events of Cruel Kiss (the prequel), but we never see it. A flashback of the circumstances that led Whitley to leave for LA could’ve been included.
Anyway, I enjoyed Cruel King a lot. Highly entertaining, and very steamy, with so many funny moments, perfect banter, and a splendid epilogue.
Recommend it if you’re looking for an easy, steamy read set in the Upper East Side world with great characters, a mix of emotional and funny moments, amazing banter, and the fake dating trope.
I’ve loved Whitley from day one, so I knew I would love her through her story. Gavin could go either way, even though I always enjoyed his bromance with Court and his friendship with Camden. Fortunately, this story made me love Whitley even more and I fell in love with Gavin too!
Whitley and Gavin have been friends for a long time, they had an interesting dynamic even helping each other out to hook up with other people. After certain events, some of which were included in Cruel Kiss, Whitley left New York to work in LA and stayed there for a few years. The story in Cruel King picks up when Whitley comes back to New York and it was so fun following the events that led these two to fake an engagement!
Gavin always had feelings for Whitley, but he let her do her thing trying not to scare her, afraid she would run away. But he took all the opportunities he could to be closer and deepen their relationship. So, after Whitley finally came back to the city, he decided to ask her for help as his fake girlfriend/fiancé to make her fall for him too. Whitley had a difficult past, so falling in love was scary for her especially because she thought she sucked as a girlfriend. It was interesting how both of them were similar in some ways and so different in other aspects. That only made the dynamic between them funnier, steamier, and so freaking enjoyable.
Gavin was the sweetest! I loved how he loved Whitley just as she was through it all. Whitley will remain one of my favorite romance heroines, I truly understood her fear of being vulnerable and in love. Everything made perfect sense considering her upbringing, and her personality and I knew that things needed to reach a pivotal point.
However, my favorite book is still Cruel Desire (Court and Anna are my favorite couple! And Court remains my favorite character in this universe). The backstory between Gavin and Whitley could’ve played a larger role in this book. The reader is told about what happened after the events of Cruel Kiss (the prequel), but we never see it. A flashback of the circumstances that led Whitley to leave for LA could’ve been included.
Anyway, I enjoyed Cruel King a lot. Highly entertaining, and very steamy, with so many funny moments, perfect banter, and a splendid epilogue.
Recommend it if you’re looking for an easy, steamy read set in the Upper East Side world with great characters, a mix of emotional and funny moments, amazing banter, and the fake dating trope.
March 29, 2023
Gavin and Whitley are combustible from the very first moment readers see these two again. They've been in each other's lives for a long time, dancing around feelings that are blatantly obvious to us, but feelings they're fighting against as neither thinks they're relationship material. Bumping into each other again though hits a light switch on for Gavin and has him doing all he can to claim Whitley once and for all...starting a fake relationship with her that soon becomes all too real.
Gavin King's a delicious hero, one who's loved Whitley from afar for a long time but who held back because she was once engaged to his friend. She calls to him on every level and in every way though, so holding back is no longer an option for him. Throughout their fake relationship Gavin's sweet and caring, supporting Whitley through every up and down. He loves her exactly as she is, never wanting her to conform to anyone else's image in a sensual connection that just keeps building and careening towards the truth. Whitley Bowen's a successful plastic surgeon capable of crafting the perfect outer package, but when it comes to herself, she carries some self-doubts. Three years ago she and Gavin made an emotional connection that scared her into running away from him, but this time around there's no running. When a fake relationship takes an unexpected turn, these two will need to address all the truths, secrets, and lies that have kept them apart. While they work through their feelings, their families plan for a wedding amidst a health scare and other twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Through it all I found Whitley an amazing heroine, an immensely appealing woman who wears clothes like armor. She's bold and brash, shows the world a take no prisoners attitude, but below that tough exterior is a vulnerable side that makes her even more endearing to readers. They gave each other exactly what the other needed in a beautifully balanced romance that was sweet and seductive, a pairing teeming with heart and soul.
Alongside this unforgettable main couple was a large cast of friends and families, pushing this couple towards HEA through a rollercoaster ride of emotions. These characters are ones we've seen before (which gives readers an update on their lives) while setting up new pairings that have me excited for the next installment in this series. While this book can be read on its own I definitely recommend reading the prequel, Cruel Kiss, which sets these two on their journey to HEA. It was sweet and sensual, leaving me captivated and reveling in the temptation these two present!
Gavin King's a delicious hero, one who's loved Whitley from afar for a long time but who held back because she was once engaged to his friend. She calls to him on every level and in every way though, so holding back is no longer an option for him. Throughout their fake relationship Gavin's sweet and caring, supporting Whitley through every up and down. He loves her exactly as she is, never wanting her to conform to anyone else's image in a sensual connection that just keeps building and careening towards the truth. Whitley Bowen's a successful plastic surgeon capable of crafting the perfect outer package, but when it comes to herself, she carries some self-doubts. Three years ago she and Gavin made an emotional connection that scared her into running away from him, but this time around there's no running. When a fake relationship takes an unexpected turn, these two will need to address all the truths, secrets, and lies that have kept them apart. While they work through their feelings, their families plan for a wedding amidst a health scare and other twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Through it all I found Whitley an amazing heroine, an immensely appealing woman who wears clothes like armor. She's bold and brash, shows the world a take no prisoners attitude, but below that tough exterior is a vulnerable side that makes her even more endearing to readers. They gave each other exactly what the other needed in a beautifully balanced romance that was sweet and seductive, a pairing teeming with heart and soul.
Alongside this unforgettable main couple was a large cast of friends and families, pushing this couple towards HEA through a rollercoaster ride of emotions. These characters are ones we've seen before (which gives readers an update on their lives) while setting up new pairings that have me excited for the next installment in this series. While this book can be read on its own I definitely recommend reading the prequel, Cruel Kiss, which sets these two on their journey to HEA. It was sweet and sensual, leaving me captivated and reveling in the temptation these two present!
March 29, 2023
Check out our full post for CRUEL KING on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the seventh book in the series, and I would definitely recommend that you read them in order, because there is so much goodness in this series. I really enjoy the crazy wealth and the machinations of 'royal' families, arranged marriages, politics, and friendship. We met Gavin and Whitley in earlier books, and their badly-timed hookup three years ago – which resulted in her moving across the country to work in LA. She is now back, attracted by a huge pay raise and potential of a partnership in a successful cosmetic surgery practice.
Inevitably, the two will meet again as they share friends. Gavin, the one time biggest player of the group has, in fact, got bored of not having someone special in his life, and Whitley is the woman on his mind. He is therefore delighted to find she is back and, even better, is buying property in his building. He isn't sure how he is going to make her believe he wants a relationship with her, and his plans are pretty crazy, but fun to watch! Whitley is also renowned for not wanting to settle down, so is also at a loss as to how to communicate clearly to Gavin... cue some fun for those watching on and sure that they are perfect for each other.
I loved catching up with the previous couples and seeing how their lives have changed, thanks to love, children, and good communications. It gives us hope, as well as providing the reassurance and motivation that they both need. Amused me greatly that the Mayor still manages a cameo in this story. Delicious read from start to finish.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 31, 2023
The final two finally get their own book. Gavin and Whitley were the last two from this fun group to get together and their story was so fun and I loved every minute of the ride. I also loved seeing all the characters we've come to love and what they are doing in their lives as well. But really, this couple was probably the most fun and least angsty of the group (though not completely devoid of angst because it's K.A. Linde, so there has to be some).
Gavin and Whitley are the ultimate players. Neither of them were ever really serious about anyone and never thought of themselves as relationship material. Yet when they finally hook-up (read Cruel Kiss), it's such an intense chemistry that's also playful and fun. These two really enjoy themselves and each other and that makes it fun to see them together.
We start this book a few years after the end of Cruel Kiss, the prequel novella. Whitley has moved back to NYC from LA and immediately runs into Gavin. Unbeknownst to each other, there are still feelings that are unresolved. They affect each other more than they want to admit and because they share a very involved friend group, they are thrown together many times. When Gavin gets the idea to have Whitley pretend to be his fiance to get his family off his back, neither of them anticipated how right it would feel. And when fate has them deciding to go through with a fake marriage it becomes so much more real and right than they ever could have imagined.
Fake engagement/marriage is one of my favorite tropes and with these two being close friends and having the chemistry they do, it has been one of the better books in this trope, definitely different than some of them. Linde brings this world, this friend group, to great use in this story. You get a lot of the supporting characters and they really help move this couple's story along. I loved seeing so much of Katherine and seeing her in her new role of mom too! How this group of friends are really there for each other and know each other is why this is probably my favorite series from Linde. Great story and great conclusion to this amazing series. And she also builds the foundation for her next series, which is always fun.
Gavin and Whitley are the ultimate players. Neither of them were ever really serious about anyone and never thought of themselves as relationship material. Yet when they finally hook-up (read Cruel Kiss), it's such an intense chemistry that's also playful and fun. These two really enjoy themselves and each other and that makes it fun to see them together.
We start this book a few years after the end of Cruel Kiss, the prequel novella. Whitley has moved back to NYC from LA and immediately runs into Gavin. Unbeknownst to each other, there are still feelings that are unresolved. They affect each other more than they want to admit and because they share a very involved friend group, they are thrown together many times. When Gavin gets the idea to have Whitley pretend to be his fiance to get his family off his back, neither of them anticipated how right it would feel. And when fate has them deciding to go through with a fake marriage it becomes so much more real and right than they ever could have imagined.
Fake engagement/marriage is one of my favorite tropes and with these two being close friends and having the chemistry they do, it has been one of the better books in this trope, definitely different than some of them. Linde brings this world, this friend group, to great use in this story. You get a lot of the supporting characters and they really help move this couple's story along. I loved seeing so much of Katherine and seeing her in her new role of mom too! How this group of friends are really there for each other and know each other is why this is probably my favorite series from Linde. Great story and great conclusion to this amazing series. And she also builds the foundation for her next series, which is always fun.
September 15, 2023
Gavin and Whitley's full story! Overall it was good but there were parts that weren't so good. Things pick up three years after the whole Gavin-Whitley-Robert debacle, Whitley has moved back to New York and she's made partner at her plastic surgery clinic. The minute she arrives, she runs into no other then Gavin King. Whitley has feelings for Gavin but she won't admit it to herself, which is one of the reasons she ran away to L.A. Gavin is happy to see the girl who got away back and he'll do anything in his power to keep her in New York. Once Gavin finds out that Whitley's living in his building, every morning he makes sure to bring her coffee, which becomes their routine as they spend more and more time together. When Gavin has to go home to Texas for a family wedding he asks Whitley to be his fake girlfriend which kind of spirals into them being fake-engaged. I loved Gavin's family, they were welcoming and so nice even though they had some skeletons they were good people. I hope we get a series on the King's from Midland, Texas. Because Gavin already had feelings for Whitley, it was easy to make everyone believe their lie and Whitley liked being Gavin's fake-fiancée deep down. Her constantly saying she was a bad girlfriend got old very quickly because her and Gavin were so good together and at some point they stopped pretending and all their friends could tell. They spent all their time together, they spelt over at each other's places and were basically a couple but Whitley was still trying to run. Things do come crashing down on them in a spectacular fashion, with Whitley making a scene and Gavin drowning himself in a bottle. I do love their group of friends who rally around them both in any good or bad situation. I loved getting updates on Katherine, Anna, Lark, Camden, Court and Sam and they were amazing people. I do like how Gavin came clean to Whitley in the end explaining to her how he felt about her and wanted her to be his bride. Whitley finally let her walls come down and allow Gavin in and get her HEA. I'm gonna miss this group, they were full of drama but they loved one another.
March 29, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥.5
“Gavin and I fit into each other’s world. We always had. First as friends and then as more, and now, even pretending, we seemed to fit just fine.”
This is my first time reading this author and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. This book had me at fake fiancé.I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Whitley has been living and working in LA as a plastic surgeon and she gets an offer she can’t refuse from her mentor in New York. So now she back back in New York and the first person she bumps into is the one she was not ready to see yet, Gavin. Gavin is a billionaire businessman who never short of female company but he has grown tired of the lifestyle after seeing all his friends get married and all he can think about is the one women he wanted left him behind without looking back. Gavin & Whitley have always been friends and each other wingman/woman but things are not the same was they once were and when Gavin’s in need of a fake girlfriend he asks Whitley. And fake girlfriend quickly turns into fake fiancé because Whitley doesn’t believe she can be a good girlfriend let alone a fake one. But everything spirals out of control when her family finds out and they make the decision to continue faking it but the lines begin to blur between real and fake. Will they find something real in this fake relationship or will their fears get in the way?
Gavin and Whitley had great banter and chemistry throughout the entire book and once they give into their attraction they can’t keep their hands off each other. Their relationship filled with steam, humor, angst, and banter along with a passion that they couldn’t possibly contain. I love how Gavin never tries to change or tame Whitley, he loves her just the way she is with all her crazy stories and colorful hair. Overall, this book was so good and the characters were great, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
I would recommend if you like:
💗Fake Fiancé
💗Billionaire
💗Friends to Lovers
💗Spicy Scenes 🔥
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing for this ARC!!
🔥🔥.5
“Gavin and I fit into each other’s world. We always had. First as friends and then as more, and now, even pretending, we seemed to fit just fine.”
This is my first time reading this author and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. This book had me at fake fiancé.I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Whitley has been living and working in LA as a plastic surgeon and she gets an offer she can’t refuse from her mentor in New York. So now she back back in New York and the first person she bumps into is the one she was not ready to see yet, Gavin. Gavin is a billionaire businessman who never short of female company but he has grown tired of the lifestyle after seeing all his friends get married and all he can think about is the one women he wanted left him behind without looking back. Gavin & Whitley have always been friends and each other wingman/woman but things are not the same was they once were and when Gavin’s in need of a fake girlfriend he asks Whitley. And fake girlfriend quickly turns into fake fiancé because Whitley doesn’t believe she can be a good girlfriend let alone a fake one. But everything spirals out of control when her family finds out and they make the decision to continue faking it but the lines begin to blur between real and fake. Will they find something real in this fake relationship or will their fears get in the way?
Gavin and Whitley had great banter and chemistry throughout the entire book and once they give into their attraction they can’t keep their hands off each other. Their relationship filled with steam, humor, angst, and banter along with a passion that they couldn’t possibly contain. I love how Gavin never tries to change or tame Whitley, he loves her just the way she is with all her crazy stories and colorful hair. Overall, this book was so good and the characters were great, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
I would recommend if you like:
💗Fake Fiancé
💗Billionaire
💗Friends to Lovers
💗Spicy Scenes 🔥
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing for this ARC!!
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