Discover millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more with a free trial

Only $11.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

The Marriage Bargain
The Marriage Bargain
The Marriage Bargain
Ebook271 pages4 hours

The Marriage Bargain

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

()

Read preview

About this ebook

The sizzling first book in the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling Marriage to a Billionaire series by “one of the most exciting breakout novelists” (USA TODAY) Jennifer Probst.

A marriage in name only...

To save her family home, impulsive bookstore owner Alexa Maria McKenzie casts a love spell. But she never planned on conjuring up her best friend’s older brother—the powerful man who once shattered her heart.

Billionaire Nicholas Ryan doesn’t believe in marriage, but in order to inherit his father’s corporation, he needs a wife and needs one fast. When he discovers his sister’s childhood friend is in dire financial straits, he offers Alexa a bold proposition.

A marriage in name only with certain rules: Avoid entanglement. Keep things all business. Do not fall in love. The arrangement is only for a year so the rules shouldn’t be that hard to follow, right?

Except fate has a way of upsetting the best-laid plans...
LanguageEnglish
PublisherGallery Books
Release dateAug 17, 2012
ISBN9781622669035
Author

Jennifer Probst

Jennifer Probst wrote her first book at twelve years old. She bound it in a folder, read it to her classmates, and hasn’t stopped writing since. She took a short hiatus to get married, get pregnant, buy a house, get pregnant again, pursue a Master’s degree in English literature, and rescue two shelter dogs. Now she is writing again. She is the New York Times, USA TODAY, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her book, The Marriage Bargain spent twenty-six weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Her work has been translated in over a dozen countries, sold over a million copies, and was dubbed a “romance phenom” by Kirkus Reviews. She makes her home in upstate New York with the whole crew. Her sons keep her active, stressed, joyous, and sad her house will never be truly clean.

Read more from Jennifer Probst

Related to The Marriage Bargain

Titles in the series (4)

View More

Related ebooks

Contemporary Romance For You

View More

Related articles

Reviews for The Marriage Bargain

Rating: 3.9269406392694064 out of 5 stars
4/5

219 ratings40 reviews

What did you think?

Tap to rate

Review must be at least 10 words

  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Review courtesy of Dark Faerie TalesQuick & Dirty: This is what happens when one person marries to gain control of a company and the other marries in order to aid family. Two worlds collide.Opening Sentence: She needed a man.The Review:There is just something that continues to draw me to marriage of convenience titles. Maybe because you only really get to know everything about each other when you live, sleep, work and eat together. More often than not this style of romance follows the formula: marry due to circumstances, grow to like and irritate each other, fall in love, catastrophe occurs, problem is fixed and then they live happily ever after. This book does not stray from the formula and yet I was entertained.The unique spin on this formula is that Alexa uses a spell in order to summon her soul mate. The problem is that Nick is everything Alexa doesn’t want. The only thing in his favor is that he can write a check out for $150,000 and never miss the money. On Nick’s part, he needs a wife to fulfill requirements to gain control of his company and not be worried about his wife developing feelings for him. The problem is that Alexa cares for Nick even before the ink is dry on the marriage certificate. In the end they both find that they need what the other can bring to the table and marry.The story moves along at a steady pace but doesn’t ever feel rushed or constrained. We are given opportunities to witness their heartbreak and joy before the book comes to its inevitable conclusion. One of my favorite scenes involves Nick and Alexa’s niece. There is nothing more endearing than to see a strong male humbled by a child’s tears. I was laughing so hard that I was afraid my side would split.What I truly enjoyed about this book was the verbal sparing between Nick and Alexa. She refused to take what he said at face value and would probe until she got to the truth. Nick, on the other hand, is a man that is fighting his past. The glimpse we get into his tragic youth provides the angst that he has carried with him into every relationship. In doing so, he becomes a more believable and lovable hero.This book has continued my passion for marriage of convenience titles and I shall be picking up the next book in this series to see what adventures Michael and Maggie must go through in order to find their own happily ever after.Notable Scene:He shifted his weight. His nod was halfhearted. “I guess.”“So, what about Gabriella?”He drew back in surprise. “How do you know about her?”“Maggie.”“Don’t worry about Gabriella. I’ll take care of her.”“Are you sleeping with her?”He flinched, then tried to pretend he didn’t care. “Does it matter?”FTC Advisory: Entangled Publishing provided me with a copy of The Marriage Bargain. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I liked the story as there was a lot of chemistry between the characters
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    This was fine.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Great Book! Loved the characters, the sizzling romance, and especially loved the "marriage contract". My only complaint was that it was too short, I wanted more!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    A predictable romance, but also a cute and fun read. I enjoyed it.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Alexa needs the money. Nicholas needs the wife. They both need things the other can provide, so it seems only logical for them to join up and marry to satisfy both needs. It was an ideal arrangement. She’d get her money to save her family home, and he’d get the wife required to take hold of his family’s corporation. They wouldn’t fall in love, they wouldn’t dare even think about sex, it was strictly a business arrangement. But, when things begin to lead from one thing to another, the two find themselves wrapped in a steamy situation neither one signed up for—love.The Marriage Bargain was a light, cute read. It included bouts of humor, steamy scenes, and passionate romance. Though I still feel that there could have been room for more of the passion to flourish. For the most part it all seemed to be confused for lust which left me kind of befuddled as to how the two actually fell into “love” when they were surrounded by lust nearly every time things heated up.But don’t let that keep you from checking it out if you’re interested, those scenes were pretty hot. Not to mention the book had some dramatic moments that tugged on my heartstrings, and all in all it felt like I was watching a movie.Jennifer Probst is quite witty and gifted with keen writing abilities that kept me engaged from the first chapter and until the last page was turned. I’ve been looking for a book to read quite quickly and am glad to say that The Marriage Bargain has officially knocked me from my reading slump. I will definitely check out the other books in this series in due time, and will keep my eye out for future releases from this author. I give it a four out of five and am pleased that I read it.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    An unexpected book for an unexpected story.Alexa a woman with a big heart who wants to help everyone and Nick facing an ultimatum to achieve his long lasting dream.I was hooked since the first line that I read and I have to admit it was also the same thing for every book of this sequel.I didn’t get bored by reading it which I usually feel with those romance books but not with this one, now even if they know that their wedding was just on papers and for the benefit of one another they couldn’t get away from the attraction for one another.I was an Alexa fun though not so much feeling for Nick spatially with the turn of the events.Still what a romance.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This was a cute, fun read. The writing was great, the characters were well fleshed out and easy to relate to, and dang! That cover is hot hot hot. *licks lips*

    The plot was predictable, but that didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the story. I will admit that there were a couple of places where we were in Nick's head and he thought things that didn't smack of "guy" (as I imagine men to think- figure that one out!), but all in all, this was a great book.

    Go Mets!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5


    GOSH I love the sexual temptations within the main characters!! The writing was great and stimulated a really clear images in my head. Sadly, I felt it a bit too rushed between the climax and the ending. And I didn't keen on the idea Nick in jersey to propose her wife back home again. Anyway this is short, hot piece to read! Gonna check another books from this author :)
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Alexa wears her huge heart on her sleeve and Nick is positive he has no heart. The marriage is arranged for mutual benifit..he for himself, her for her family.

    Nick's worst fear is to become like his father now on wife four. He knows he never wants children so that they won't suffer an emotionally lonely childhood as he did. Alexa has visions of a successful bookstore, the man she loves and of course lots of pets and children. After all, this sham of a marriage only has to last one year.

    As the book progresses we see through the wise eyes of Alexa, first the superficial layers and later the deep layers around Nick's heart fall away. They do find love, life and happiness but they needed to walk a path of learning first.

    I enjoyed the skill with which the characters developed through the pen of Probst. Very believable and very encouraging. A read of hope, goals and hot sex.
  • Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
    1/5
    The Marriage Bargain by Jennifer Probst is a cliché smutty fanfiction that no matter what fandom you read, exist.

    Alexa needs money, and fast, so she marriages Nick, who needs to marry because (wait for it) he can't inherit his uncle's corporation unless married.

    Yes. Read it before.

    Not even the characters make the story any different.

    Alexa's passion is the literature, she writes poems and paints. And shelters animals from time to time. And is more of a giver than a taker. I couldn't stand her. She's hot, by the way. And she doesn't know it.

    Nick is hot. He got a supermodel ex-girlfriend. That's about all I remember about him.

    They don't behave like adults, and instead of dealing with their problems or saying whatever is happening they behave like teens and pout and sulk.

    That said, it wasn't such an awful book, it was entertaining and the author's writing is good, but the story just couldn't keep me interested.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Good book. The storyline is predictable, but it's a charming romance. Especially love that the heroine is involved with fostering for the local shelter. :)
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    So cheesy. So amazingly cheesy. This is exactly what I needed in a book right now. As other reviewers have noted, this book is total brain fluff. You know how it will end 50 (and that's being generous) pages in, but the things is, you don't care. You get caught up in the love-hate relationship between Alexandria and Nick and you are rooting for them to realize what you already know - that they are madly in love with one another.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    as usual, the theme gets me every time. still fresh characters, great interaction. liked it alot.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Reviewed by StaceyReview copy provided by Entangled PublishingI am a huge fan of the whole “marriage of convenience” storyline and I believe that Jennifer Probst put an interesting spin on it to make it fresh, fun and sexy – with a hint of sass! Alexa wants to be married; she wants to fall in love with the perfect man and have her happily ever-after. He also needs to have $150,000 cash handy so that she can save her family home. Nick needs a wife to claim an inheritance; but he doesn’t believe in love ever-lasting. They are as opposite as can be and yet they both need each other immediately. The spin that author Jennifer Probst give us in “The Marriage Bargain” is that Nick and Alexa actually have a past; they have grown up together and have a history of friendship. We learn that Alexa had harbored a crush on Nick in her early teens but when the story starts up, we find that the two haven’t seen each other in years. Alexa is best friends with Nick’s sister but other than that connection, they are seeing each other again for the first time as adults. If I had once complaint about the story it is that the build up to romance was a little slow. Don’t get me wrong, there was plenty of heat and attraction but every time I thought that they were finally going to hook up, they were interrupted. Between mean ex-girlfriends, rogue stray dogs, the cops…I found myself getting frustrated! But when they finally fess up give in to their attraction? Woo-hoo! It’s hot, it’s steamy and best of all, it’s very realistic in the fact that they are both ready for this turn in their relationship and are able to let their guard’s down. With all good ‘convenience’ stories, their trip to happily-ever-after hits the familiar road blocks; one admits to love while the other feels trapped. I won’t give away who gives their heart first but I will say that “The Marriage Bargain” was a thoroughly enjoyable read and one that I will definitely pull out and read again. I read half of it in one night and woke up the next morning extra early to finish it before going to work!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I'd like to know who all these gorgeous, modern men and women are who end up having to get married to save their job/fortune/life. Is that even legal? The "marriage of convenience" plot has been done before, but who can resist characters who are extremely different being thrown together and falling in love?The Marriage Bargain relies on several tried-and-true conventions, but the most annoying is: The Perfect Heroine. Alexa could not possibly be any more "good." She marries Nicholas, because she needs money. Why? This is the part where you hope she's gotten into a scrape somehow. Drug deal gone bad? No. Gambling debt? No. Shopaholic facing a credit card crisis? No. She needs money to give her parents to save their house. (By the way, the parents don't have an elicit story, either. They're in debt because of her dad's medical bills.) Throughout the entire book, we are confronted with more evidence of Alexa's inherent goodness, to the point that I realized if she were an actual person, I would loathe her. I would possibly consider hiring a hit man to be rid of her. Who can live up to this perfect female specimen, who is able to inspire some kinky lust-thoughts from a Billionaire (with a capital "B")while also saving her family's home, refusing to accept one more penny from her insanely rich husband, and helping him heal himself. (He was but a shell of a man until Alexa made him whole....) Oh, and let's not forget that she volunteers for an animal shelter and is able to rescue a dog and bring him out of his shell, too. I'd vote for Alexa to be a saint if I could. No, scratch that. Running your own business, then going home to greet your husband with a freshly cooked meal, glass of wine, and hot sex? She's ruining everything for the rest of us.Nicholas comes across as a jerk with some severe issues. As great as Alexa is, I think he needs more help than she can give. Intensive counseling at the least; possibly even shock therapy. He mistreats her at times, even after we think he's redeeming himself and realizes he loves her. The last conflict seems to exist only to create a dramatic moment to preface the movie-like ending scene, which (much to my chagrin) is pretty great, if I do say so myself.That's what makes this book so frustrating. While some parts had me rolling my eyes in frustration, it was not without its moments. The best parts, for me, were the times they spent around Alexa's family. Alexa and Nicholas are so intense, they need other characters as balance. Alexa's family helped Nicholas experience acceptance and a somewhat normal familial relationship, which affected his character and ultimately, the outcome for the couple. Despite some of my frustrations, I'll admit that I kept reading, because I was interested enough to want to finish their story. Warning: This book contains graphic sex scenes.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Author: Jennifer ProbstPublished By: Entangled Publishing, LLCAge Recommend: AdultReviewed By: Arlena DeanRaven Rating: 4Blog Review For: Great Minds Think AloudReview:"The Marriage Bargain" by Jennifer Probst was a good romantic read and the book cover isn't too bad to look at either. I really laughed out loud at some of the hilarious humor that is in this storyline.This novel was indeed very sweet, funny and yet very interesting read. Ms. Probst did a wonderful job in getting Billionaire Nicholas Ryan and Alexa McKenzie(childhood sweethearts) together with both being believers. Alexa believed in family...rooting for the Mets and trying to live her life with a purpose. Nick on the other had believes only in things which he could control...like his career and very much his independence. Definitely this was two opposites that are drawn together in a romance that really turns into real love. After Alexa and Nick enter into a contract where they will be married for a year (in name only...with certain rules...avoiding entanglement...keeping things all business and not fall in love) ... but secretly did they have feeling for each other? This was a wonderful relationship between Alexa and Nick both having secrets to be worked out. What were the secrets? Now, this is where I say you will have to pick up this good novel "The Marriage Bargain" to find out how this turns out. You will not be sorry!I found "The marriage Bargain" a very amazing read that you will stay with until its beautiful ending leaving you smiling. I would definitely recommend this read to any adult who wants a good romantic read.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The Marriage Bargain is a great beach read. The story is preditable, but I still enjoyed. Basically it is about two childhood friends, Alexa and Nick, that need each other for financial purposes only... or so they think. In reality, they need each other on a more basic level but that can't admit this to each other. Most of the book is about how they try to avoid their feelings for each other. When they finally admit to themselves, and each other, that the attraction is there and has been for awhile you get a nice tidy happy ending. Total beach, fluff read but I still really enjoyed. Nice to have a book that you love the characters and requires little thought.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I truely wanted to smack both of the main characters at a couple points and yell TALK TO EACH OTHER! It was an enjoyable read, i finished it in a day and a half.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Oh, this is a walking cliché or better yet a written cliché and I absolutely loved it to pieces. The dynamic between Alexa and Nick was so good and in spite of being very similar to some other books, I don't really care. I totally recommend this to anyone who is as much a sucker for romance as I am.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I did enjoy this, a fun read, even though it was a predictable story. I laughed at the part about the dogs invading Nick's impeccable home. I didn't expect the comedic part of it, so that's why I gave this a four star rating.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    A funny story with some depth. I enjoyed it and I have added it to my list of favorites.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    It is a funny story with well-written characters and well flowed dialogue.. easy to read!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Trigger warning. I usually like this author, but I quite literally could not force myself past the prologue of this book.

    The opening scene involves the so-called hero using coercion to get the heroine, a 14 year old girl who does not yet have any interest in boys, kissing or sex, to kiss him, then humiliating her.

    Everything about the way it is written reads as manipulation, with techniques classically used by sexual abusers.

    There is no recovering from the way an older, more experienced male belittles and coerces a child into a sexual experience. Whatever “reasons” provided later by the author will be inadequate in redeeming the so-called hero for abusing a child as she plays hide and seek. Some may say he “only” kisses her, but it’s enough to cause her serious, life changing trauma.

    So, if child sexual abuse is a trigger for you, be forewarned. There is enough of the “older cousin abusing his little cousin” vibe in the way the coercion and humiliation is presented in this to set off serious anxiety for some.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    good dialogue !!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    lovely story.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    The Marriage Bargain was the typical marriage of convenience story, but the emotions of the characters and the quick-witted banter of the dialogue took it to another level beyond ordinary. Even though the book was fairly short, I enjoyed the development of the characters and the motives behind their actions. A simple story but well worth the read.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Honestly I couldn't put the book down. From the first page to the last, I laughed, cried, and got turned-on. A truly pleasurable read with such rich well rounded characters you can't help but root for. Now I'm a new fan!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    great book
  • Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
    1/5
    Vanilla 50 shades.
    Hero doesn't want a family, no wife, no kids. He's hurt. Had bad parents.

    Guess what happens, after he has to marry someone, to receive his inheritance?? (I think it's illeagal now, to make such stipulations).

Book preview

The Marriage Bargain - Jennifer Probst

Prologue

Thirteen years ago…

Ready or not, here I come!

Alexa tore her hands away from her eyes and spun around. The woods shimmered with an eerie silence, but she sensed her friends close by. Without hesitation she ran, her sneakers pounding over the brush and sticks as she whizzed in and out of the large pine trees. Her ears pricked as she caught the tail end of a giggle.

She headed toward the sound, but the echo threw her off and all she managed to surprise was a squirrel with a large nut. The cool shade lured her deeper. One quick check in Maggie’s usual hiding spot only revealed a pile of leaves. Alexa slowed her pace and almost decided to turn when she heard a voice.

A little old for hide and seek, aren’t you?

Alexa pivoted on her sneaker and glared at her best friend’s older brother. It’s fun. She dismissed him with a haughty sniff. They used to be close, until he suddenly woke up one day and decided she wasn’t worth his time. He never talked to her, or snuck into her house for chocolate chip cookies, or told her raunchy jokes any longer. Seems only the older, silly, busty girls snagged his attention now. Who cared? She refused to follow him around like a little kid. Anyway, you wouldn’t understand. You never want to hang with us. What are you doing out here alone?

He got up from the ground and walked toward her. Nick Ryan was sixteen years old and a pain in the butt. He made fun of everything she did, and pretended he had the right to play God just because he was two years older.

He stood on long, muscled legs. His hair curled around the top of his ears and over his forehead, and was an intriguing mix of colors, from pale brown to gold. Like her Chex cereal, Alexa thought. A combination of rice, wheat and corn. His face was all lean, angular curves, set off by a sulky lower lip that always intrigued her. Light brown eyes gleamed with intelligence and a hint of pain. Alexa knew what pain felt like. That was the only quality she related to.

Nick Ryan was a rich kid who kept to himself and seemed to have no friends. She always wondered how his sister, Maggie, had turned out so social.

You should be careful in the woods, brat. You could get lost.

I know my way around better than you.

He gave a dismissive shrug. Probably do. You should have been a boy.

Her temper spiked. She clenched her fists at her sides and tossed her ponytail. And you should have been a girl. Everyone knows you don’t like to get your hands dirty, pretty boy.

Direct hit. He actually looked annoyed. You should learn to act like a real girl.

How so?

Make-up. Looking pretty. Kissing boys.

She’d never spend her precious pennies on lip-gloss. It was hard enough to afford anything new, let alone make-up or perfume. Alexa made a gagging sound. Gross.

Bet you never kissed anyone before.

She heard the taunting tone in his voice. At fourteen, most of her girlfriends had already had their first kisses—Maggie included—but the thought always made her stomach turn. She’d rather die than admit it to Nick. Yes, I have.

Who?

None of your beeswax. I’m outta here.

I dare you.

Her sneaker stopped mid-flight. A sharp bird call cut through the air, and Alexa felt like she’d hit a turning point. She stuck out her chin. Dare me to what?

Show me you can kiss.

Her stomach slid and her heartbeat thundered and her palms sweat. She made a face. With you?

I knew it.

Why would I want to kiss you? I hate you!

Okay, forget it. I just wanted to see if you were a real girl. Now I know you’re not.

His words sliced through her. All the doubt and uncertainty bubbled up inside and confirmed she was different. Why wasn’t she like Maggie? Why did she prefer painting and reading and animals to boys? Maybe Nick was right and she was deficient. Maybe…

He started to walk away.

Wait!

He stood with his back toward her for a few moments, as if considering her plea. Slowly, he turned around. What?

She forced herself to close the distance and stopped in front of him. Her legs shook. Her body felt funny. Almost like she was going to throw up. I know how to kiss. And I’ll…I’ll show you.

Fine. Go ahead. He cocked his hip in an arrogant stance like he did this every day and was already getting bored.

Drawing on her knowledge from the movies, she leaned forward. I will not screw this up. Relax my lips. Deep breath. Angle my head more to the side so we don’t bump noses. God, what if I hit his chin and make him bleed? No, don’t think about that. Kissing is a piece of cake.

No big deal. No big deal. No big deal…

His breath was light and warm as it rushed over her lips. She arched her neck upward and paused. Then his lips touched hers.

She barely felt the brush but an array of sensations passed over her. The touch of his fingers over her shoulders. The gentle pressure of his mouth. The earthy scent of the woods mixed with a teasing hint of cologne.

In those few moments, he’d given her a rare gift. Her heart burst open and a strange elation soared through her veins. Her first real kiss. How long had she dreaded and feared the experience, horribly afraid she’d hate boys and kissing and not be normal? She knew then she was a mature girl and would never question that part of herself again.

He slowly pulled away and her eyes drifted open. Their gazes met and locked. Her emotions poured through her in roaring, choppy waves, like she was zooming down the log ride at Great Adventure, and hung on with fear and excitement. She held her breath and waited.

An odd expression crossed his face. He studied her as if he’d never seen her before. For one glorious moment, she glimpsed something deep within his golden brown eyes—a shred of vulnerability he never shared. His lips curved in a hint of a smile.

She smiled back. Felt safe. Knew he wouldn’t make fun of her or ignore her any longer. Things changed. What she denied and protested for so long suddenly popped out of her mouth without thought or consequence.

I’m going to marry you one day.

She never questioned his response, confident in their friendship and their kiss. She trusted him with a bone deep knowledge. Alexa waited for his smile to grow larger, waited for his agreement, waited for their entire relationship to finally change after that one perfect kiss.

A shutter slammed over his face and the boy she kissed seemed to disappear.

Then Nick laughed.

She blinked, not understanding his reaction, but when her gaze once again met his, coldness seeped into her chest.

Marry? Oh, that’s a good one, Al. When I get married it’ll be to a real woman. Not a child. He shook his head in sheer mockery, as if the thought would keep him amused for days on end. For laughs with his buddies. And his real girlfriends.

She stood there in the woods, only able to watch in horror, for once not able to make a smart mouth comeback.

His humor eased to a chuckle. You got potential, though. With a little practice, you might get good at this kissing thing. See ya, kid.

He walked away.

A giggle rose through the air. With slow horror, she turned and caught one of her friends hidden in the bushes. Now everyone would know.

In that moment, on the brink of womanhood, she made her first decision: she’d never let Nick or any other boy humiliate her again. The only love worth counting on was family and friends. Boys could not be trusted, and she was smart enough not to need another lesson.

She turned and ran, hide and go seek forgotten, and wondered what the ache in her chest was.

Of course, she was still too young to pinpoint the actual cause.

Years later, she’d finally understand.

Her heart had been broken.

Chapter One

She needed a man.

Preferably one with $150,000 to spare.

Alexandria Maria McKenzie stared into the small homemade campfire in the middle of her living room floor and wondered if she had officially lost her mind. The piece of paper in her hand held all the qualities she dreamed her soul mate would possess. Loyalty. Intelligence. Humor. A strong sense of family and a love for animals. A healthy income.

Most of her ingredients were already cooking. One hair from a male family member—her brother was still pissed. A mix of scented herbs—probably to give him a tender side. And the small stick for…well, she hoped that didn’t mean what she feared.

With a deep breath, she threw the list into the silver bucket and watched it burn. She felt like an idiot for creating a love spell, but she had no options left and little to lose. As the owner of an eclectic bookstore in a trendy upstate New York college town, she figured she was allowed some quirks. Like sending up a prayer to Earth Mother for the perfect man.

Alexa reached over and grabbed the fire extinguisher as the flames leaped. The smoke rose and reminded her of the burned pizza crust on the bottom of her toaster oven. She crinkled her nose, shot the spray into the middle of her carpet, and went to hunt up a glass of red wine to celebrate.

Her mom would have to sell Tara.

Her family home.

Alexa grabbed a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and thought about her dilemma. Her bookstore was mortgaged to the hilt. The café expansion would take careful planning, and there wasn’t a dime to spare. She looked over the Victorian loft apartment and easily calculated there was nothing to sell. Not even on eBay.

She was twenty-seven and probably should live in a stylish condo, with designer clothes and a date every weekend. Instead, she took in homeless dogs from the local shelter and bought chic scarves to update her outfits. She believed in living in the sunlight, being open to every possibility, and following her heart. Unfortunately, none of those traits would save her mother’s house.

She took a sip of the ruby red wine and acknow-ledged there was nothing left to do. No one had enough money, and this time when the tax collector came, there wouldn’t be a happy ending. She was no Scarlett O’Hara. And Alexa didn’t think her last-ditch attempt to make a love spell to lure the perfect man to her door was going to help.

The doorbell rang.

Her mouth fell open. My God, was it him? She looked at her grungy sweatpants and cropped shirt and wondered if she had time to change. She got up to rummage through the closet, but the bell rang again, so she walked over, took a deep breath, and reached for the knob.

About time you answered the door.

Her hopes plummeted. Alexa stared at her best friend, Maggie Ryan, and scowled. You were supposed to be a man.

Maggie snorted and walked in. She waved a hand in the air, flashing cherry red nails, and flopped onto the sofa. Yeah, keep dreaming. You scared your last date off, so I won’t be setting you up again. What happened here?

What do you mean I scared him? I thought he was going to attack me.

Maggie raised a brow. He leaned in to give you a good-night kiss. You stumbled and fell on your ass, and he felt like an idiot. People kiss after a date, Al. It’s a ritual thing.

Alexa tossed the remaining trash into a bag and scooped up the bucket. He had tons of garlic at dinner and I didn’t want him near me.

Maggie grabbed the wine glass and took a healthy swig. She stretched out long legs clad in black leather and hooked her high-heeled boots over the edge of the battered table. Remind me again why you haven’t had sex in the last decade?

Witch.

Celibate.

Alexa gave up and laughed. Okay, you win. Why are you gracing me with your presence on a Saturday night? You look good.

Thanks. I’m meeting someone for drinks at eleven. Wanna come?

On your date?

Maggie made a face and drained the rest of the glass. You’ll be better company. He’s a bore.

Why are you going out with him?

He looks good.

Alexa dropped next to her on the couch and sighed. I wish I could be like you, Maggie. Why do I have so many hang-ups?

Why don’t I have any? Maggie’s lips twisted in self-deprecating humor, then she pointed to the bucket. So, what’s the deal with the fire?

Alexa sighed. I was creating a love spell. To, uh…get a man.

Her friend threw back her head and laughed. Okay. What’s that have to do with the bucket?

Alexa’s cheeks flamed. She’d never live this down. I made a fire to honor the Earth Mother, she whispered.

Oh my God.

Hear me out. I’m desperate. I still haven’t met Mr. Right and another small problem came up I need to solve, so I combined both my needs into one list.

What kind of list?

One of my customers told me she bought this book on love spells, and when she made a list of all the qualities she was looking for in a man, he showed up.

Now Maggie looked interested. A man appeared in her life with all the things she wanted?

Yep. The list has to be specific. It can’t be too general, or supposedly the universe gets confused with your desires and sends nothing. She said if you follow the spell, the right man will appear.

Maggie’s green eyes gleamed. Let me see the book.

Nothing like another single female to make you feel better about the quest for a man. Alexa tossed her the little fabric-covered book, feeling less like an idiot.

Hmmm. Show me your list.

She waved toward the bucket. Burned it.

I know you have another copy under your bed. Forget it, I’ll get it myself. Her friend stalked off toward the canary yellow futon and stuck her hand under the cushions. Within seconds she held the list triumphantly between bright red fingernails and licked her lips as if she was about to dive into a lusty romance novel. Alexa settled on the carpet and slumped over. Let the humiliation begin.

Number one, Maggie recited. A Mets fan.

Alexa braced herself for the explosion.

Baseball? Maggie shrieked. She waved the paper back and forth in the air for dramatic effect. "Damn it, how can you make your number one priority baseball? They haven’t made it to the World Series in years! It’s a fact in New York there are more Yankees fans than Mets fans, and that wipes out most of the male population."

Alexa gritted her teeth. Why was she constantly barraged over her choice of New York teams? The Mets have heart and character, and I need a man who can root for the underdog. I refuse to sleep with a Yankees fan.

You’re hopeless. I give up, Maggie said. Number two: loves books, art, and poetry.

She paused to think about it, then shrugged. I accept. Three: believes in monogamy. Very important to the list. Number four: wants children. She looked up. How many?

Alexa smiled at the thought. I’d like three. But I’d settle for two. Should I have specified how many in the list?

No, Earth Mother will get it right. Maggie continued. Number five: knows how to communicate with a woman. Good one. I’m sick of reading books about Venus and Mars. I’ve gone through the whole series and I still don’t have a clue. Number six: loves animals. She groaned. That’s as bad as the Mets!

Alexa scooted around on the carpet to face her. If he hates dogs, how can I continue my volunteer program at the shelter? And what if he’s a hunter? I’d wake up in the middle of the night and find a dead deer staring at me from over the mantelpiece.

You’re so dramatic. Maggie turned back to the list. Number seven: has a moral code of ethics and believes in honesty. Should’ve been number one on the list, but what the hell, I’m not a Mets fan. Number eight: a good lover. She waggled her eyebrows. That would be number two on my list. But I’m proud the item even showed up. Maybe you’re not as hopeless as I thought.

Alexa swallowed hard, dread curling her insides. Keep going.

"Number nine: has a strong sense of family. Makes sense—you guys remind me of the frickin’ Waltons. Okay, number ten…"

The clock ticked. Alexa watched Maggie read the item again.

Alexa, I think I’m reading number ten wrong.

Alexa sighed. Probably not.

Maggie recited the last request. Needs one hundred and fifty thousand dollars available cash. She looked up. I need more details.

Alexa lifted her chin. I need a man I can love, with an extra one hundred and fifty thousand thrown in. And I need him fast.

Maggie shook her head like she surfaced from underwater. For what?

To save Tara.

Maggie blinked. Tara?

"Yeah, my mother’s home. You know, like in the movie Gone with the Wind? Remember how my mom used to joke about needing more cotton to pay the bills? I haven’t told you how bad it’s gotten, Maggs. Mom wants to sell and I can’t let her. They have no money and nowhere else to go. I’ll do anything to help, even marry. Just like Scarlett."

Maggie moaned and grabbed her purse. She ripped out her phone and punched in some numbers.

What are you doing? Alexa fought panic at the thought her best friend wouldn’t understand. After all, she’d never asked for a man to solve her problems before. Oh, how the mighty had fallen.

Canceling my date. I think this new item needs to be discussed. Then I’m calling my therapist. She’s very good, discreet, and she takes midnight appointments.

Alexa laughed. You’re such a good friend, Maggie.

Yeah, tell me about it.

Nicholas Ryan had a fortune at his fingertips.

But to get the one thing he wanted, he needed a wife.

Nick believed in many things. Working hard to accomplish a goal. Controlling anger and resorting to reason when a moment became confrontational. And creating buildings. Buildings that were solid yet aesthetically beautiful. Smooth angles and sharp lines blending together. Bricks and concrete and glass attesting to the solidity that people craved in ordinary life. The short moment of wonder when a person looks upon the final creation for the first time. All of these things made sense to him.

Nick did not believe in love everlasting, marriage, and family. These things made no sense, and he had decided not to incorporate such societal themes into his life.

Unfortunately, Uncle Earl had changed the rules.

Nick’s gut coiled, and his sick sense of humor almost caused a laugh to spill from his lips. He rose from his leather chair and stripped off his navy jacket, striped silk tie, and snowy white shirt. One flick of his wrist unbuckled his belt, and he quickly changed into a pair of gray sweatpants and matching T-shirt. He thrust both feet into his Nike Air sneakers and entered his office’s inner sanctum, which he’d filled with models, sketches, inspiring photos, a treadmill, some weights, and a fully stocked bar.

Enjoying the preview?
Page 1 of 1