The second novel in USA Today bestselling author Penelope Bloom’s Anyone But… series turns up the heat and hilarity with a story about second chances and promises worth breaking. After Cade King cost me everything, I vowed I’d never fall for him again—even if he became rich and megafamous. Now he’s back, and he’s still the embodiment of a big, shiny red button. Everybody knows you shouldn’t touch … Everybody knows you shouldn’t touch red buttons, but it’s so, so hard to resist.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it a little when I arrested him for disorderly conduct. Unfortunately, I think Cade liked it a little too. So when he asks for my help raising the son he just found out about, I know exactly what to say: “No, you stupidly sexy red button. I won’t touch you, even to help a cute little kid.” You’re damn right that’s what I said. Mostly.
Still, Cade doesn’t know the first thing about commitment. He lives completely in the moment. I’d need to have a recurring case of amnesia to believe he could change, even for his son. Or me.
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Anyone But Cade is the second book in the Anyone But… series. Cade is thrown back in Iris’ life when she arrests him, but when he’s shocked with the news of having a five year old son, will Cade step up to be the man he needs to be for his son and Iris, and can Iris forgive the past?
This book was the perfect combination between being deep and emotional, with past and current issues they needed to confront, and downright hilarious! I was giggling out loud, especially during one of the end scenes, which was a nice relief against some of the heavier topics. Cade and Iris were absolutely perfect for each other, even if it did take them a while to catch on. I loved that Cade, on the outside, didn’t take much seriously and was always joking or using sarcasm – of which Iris seemed to have the perfect translation for. But Cade had a lot of layers that made him complicated and deep. Iris seemed really realistic and liked her rules, but Cade really opened her up to living life and enjoying it, and she was his counterpart to kind of bring him down to earth a little more. I absolutely loved Bear and all of his scenes, too! While this book stands alone in regards to the main characters, I think it’s better to have read the first book to understand a bit better some of the previous hurts. I am loving this series so far, absolutely adored Cade, and I’m excited to read Nick’s book!
An enjoyable addition to the series! Cade and Iris story was enduring and fun from the start to the end. I enjoyed getting to know more about Cade and his personality is different but you just can’t help but love. His chemistry with Iris sizzles as he tries to get a second chance, but the fun starts as an expected element shows up which I loved. A highly entertaining romance read that does not disappoint. I can’t wait for the next story in this series.
Anyone But Cade is the second book in the Anyone But series. It was a great, well-written, fun, entertaining story w/amazing characters and off the charts chemistry. Loved Cade and Iris together. Can’t wait for Nick’s story.
Funny with plenty of heart, Anyone But Cade has Penelope Bloom’s signature humor but also more angst and seriousness than I am accustomed to from her. There’s still plenty of banter and chemistry between our couple, but there’s also a lot of residual emotion between them from their complicated past. If you’ve read the first book in the series (not necessary but helpful), then Cade no doubt made an impression on you. He is over the top funny, a little ridiculous, and a rich playboy who doesn’t take much about life seriously. So when an unexpected revelation forces him to clean up his act, he is woefully unprepared for his new responsibilities. Enlisting the help of the woman he loved and lost, Cade’s life changes in a big way.
I loved the first book in the series, so I was looking forward to Cade’s story and it didn’t disappoint. The writing is great, pairing humor with the angst that naturally comes with a second chance romance. I will openly admit that I’m not a huge fan of this trope (especially when the guy sleeps around so much during their separation), but it’s easy to see that Cade is a great guy underneath it all. He hurt Iris in high school, and she made it clear that she wanted him out of her life but neither one has been able to fully move on. Now that he’s back in town and in need of Iris’ help, they are forced to confront the feelings that still linger between them. They both have strong personalities and it was fun to read Cade’s bumpy journey into true adulthood. I’m definitely invested in the series and look forward to seeing what happens with the final brother – they each have such different personalities that the books all have their own vibe. I received a free copy via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review of this romantic comedy.
The characters were written with such great detail and depth with a well written storyline and a plot that flowed smoothly from page to page made this book a very engaging read! The banter and the chemistry between Cade and Iris made this book a real page turner!
Anyone But Cade is the first book I have read by this author. This was a fun, cute story. Cade was a great leading character but Bear stole the show. A very enjoyable story with some interesting twists and turns. I look forward to going back and reading Book 1 of this series and can’t wait to see what else is to come for the King Brothers.
Oh my gosh, I swear Penelope Bloom is one of the best writers of romantic comedy out there and if I’m honest I’m more of a gritty MC girl, but her books…can’t put them down! I’ve been waiting for Cade and Iris’ book since we met them in Rich’s book, just knew they’d be fabulous and I was oh so correct! Cade and Iris had a relationship in high school that went south because…well basically because Cade is an idiot! Oh don’t get me wrong, he’s sweet and funny and caring, but he’s an idiot who does and says whatever pops in his head, whether it’s smart or not and usually it’s not! He and Iris are perfect for each other, she’s almost, but not quite, as goofy as he is. Fortunately for their relationship she is mature enough to be the grown up and voice of reason most of the time. This book has laugh out loud humor, crazy friends and relatives, a precious 5 year old named Bear and a horrible set of parents that I am rooting to be kicked to the curb in the next book…if they’re not I may just have to imagine they are for my own sanity! Oh and we also had a cameo from Grammy! If you don’t know her you need to read The Objects of Attraction Series…so hilarious and so worth the time…that old woman is a trip! Thanks for the fabulous read Ms. Bloom, can’t wait for Nick’s book!
Another great book in this series. This book will pull you in right from the beginning. The characters are great and funny! If you love second chance romances that will also have you laughing then you don’t want to miss this one.
This is Cade and Iris’ story. I have not read the King’s brothers first book, so I didn’t have previous information about any of the characters. Cade’s character was amusing and somehow immature and selfish and Iris was his level-headed girlfriend. They, clearly, were destined for each other and time didn’t dull the attraction no matter their bad history. When Cade’s son became his charge, Cade had to upper his ways to win his prizes. Laughed with Cade’s comments, his banter and the bickering. Intrigued with Miranda that seemed to be at the expectative of something. An interesting and entertaining story with romance and passion that I enjoyed.
This is the first book by this author that I have read and I liked it. Quick, fun read. Second chance romance about Cade and Iris. They dated in high school and Cade made a huge mistake that had consequences for Iris. Fast forward 7 years later, Cade has to come back to town because he finds out that he is a father to a little boy. He turns to Iris for help and she agrees. This helps them grow closer and for him to show that he has changed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Anyone but Cade is the second book in the Anyone but series. While I enjoyed Cade and Iris, Anyone but Rich (book 1) is still my favorite so far. While this is book 2 in a series, you didn’t have to read book 1 to follow along. The author gives a good recap to catch you up to speed.
Many years ago, Iris and her 2 friends made a pact on a hillside that none of them would ever get involved with the King brothers. After each of them had developed friendships with one or more of the brothers and ended up screwed by them (and not in a good way).
Cade and Iris were thick as thieves back in the day until he cost her everything. Now she is a police officer in their hometown when Cade and his brothers come back to town to start a new branch of their company. Will she honor the pact?
Cade hasn’t forgotten Iris, no in many ways he is the driving force to get them back to their hometown. Why, he isn’t entirely sure. Is he trying to right a wrong? Convince Iris to date again? He is hoping something will become clear in the direction he is supposed to navigate. But an unexpected situation finds him needing her help. Can he convince Iris that he genuinely needs her?
Cade is a snarky businessman that is lacking any kind of grown up behavior normally attributed to a grownup. Which is exactly how Iris remembers him. Whether that is a good thing or bad, we’ll soon find out.
Cade and Iris navigate some old patterns and new situations brought on not only by their past and her new partner on the force but life in general. Can they go back to the smoothness that was their relationship? When Cade’s well being is threatened, will Iris throw in the towel.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy provided by the publisher without expectations. All opinions expressed are my own. 4 stars for the latest in this series, Nick is up next and
3.75 stars—ANYONE BUT CADE is the second instalment in Penelope Bloom’s contemporary, adult ANYONE BUT… romance series focusing on the King brothers: twins Rich and Cade, and younger brother Nick. This is twenty-five year old billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. ANYONE BUT CADE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: Seven years earlier high school friends Miranda, Kira and Iris made a promise to never date the King brothers in response to heartbreak, secret and lies that spiralled out of control. Fast forward to present day wherein the King brothers have returned to their hometown of West Valley, North Carolina in an effort to upstart a new division in their billion dollar high tech industry.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Iris and Cade) ANYONE BUT CADE follows the rebuilding relationship between billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. Seven years earlier Cade King destroyed any hopes for a future with Iris Rosewood when he shattered Iris’ chances at a scholarship in retaliation for Iris breaking his heart. Fast forward to present day and the King brothers have returned to West Valley, North Carolina, in an attempt to upstart their billion dollar tech industry. Shocking news from his past sends Cade into a tailspin landing him face to face with the woman he has never stopped loving. Enter police officer Iris Rosewood. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Iris and Case, and the potential fall-out as people behind the scenes set out to destroy their second chance romance.
Cade King made a terrible mistake the day he destroyed Iris’ future and no amount of grovelling would make up for what happened but his past is about to catch up and he is desperate for help, including help from the woman that would become his present and his future. Iris Rosewood never forgot about the horrible day when everything fell apart but a second chance with Cade meant more than anything she could have ever imagined.
The relationship between Cade and Iris is one of second chances: a rekindling romance between two people destroyed by mischief, mistakes, and childhood pranks. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Cade’s twin brother Rich and his wife Kira; their youngest brother Nick, as well as their manipulative and controlling parents Harper and Edna King; Iris’ father, and her police partner Billy, and precocious Bear.
ANYONE BUT CADE is a story of family, friendship, second chances and love; a story of secrets and lies, power and control. The premise is engaging and revealing; the characters are colorful, energetic and dynamic; the romance is seductive, captivating and hot.
This is the second book in the rom-com Anyone But… series. Cade is the second King brother to successfully get a second chance at love. If you’ve read Anyone but Rich, you’ll remember three friends-Iris, Miranda, and Kira make a promise to have nothing to do with the King brothers, who have recently moved the headquarters of their business from the city back to their small hometown. Cade is a total free spirit, uses humour for all occasions, and can be quite silly. Iris, who had good reason to cut Cade from her life seven years ago, is now a cop. The two have a pull similar to orbiting planets and are obviously comfortable with each other. I loved the way Cade, who can be annoyingly immature, steps up to being the best person for five year old Bear. I liked that Iris really needed Cade’s silliness to lighten her character a bit. He brought fun to her life. Although the plot moved a bit slowly in the beginning, the meddling of Cade’s parents and subsequent events made up for the start. A good read.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
I thoroughly enjoyed Iris and Cade’s romance. This is book two in this series and I feel that you should really read book one, Anyone But Rich before you start reading this book. As this fun story unfolds there is plenty of humor, tension, drama and emotions to keep you entertained and engaged. These two share a painful history that has left lots of emotional baggage that must be addressed and worked through. I really felt for Iris and could understand her complicated feelings for and attitude towards Cade. As for Cade, this perpetual class clown/Peter Pan playboy did have a lot of growing up to do and fences to mend. That being said, there was no denying that he was a very charming rascal.
Anyone but Cade was hilariously funny! That dude was a character. It’s difficult taking him seriously especially with the weird things that come out of his mouth. Sometimes it’s so stupid but kinda makes sense (if you really think hard about it).
Seriously this guy had me laughing out loud so much of the time…but even being the goof 1000% of the time, it’s clear as day he has a good, kind heart. It takes a specula person to really “get him” and that person is Iris. She understood him on a level even his twin brother didn’t.
They had an incredibly special bond that withstood the seven years apart. And no matter the promise she made with her besties, like with Kira, it proved to be a promise that was difficult to keep.
Their story was a wonderful combination of a second-chance and enemies-to-lovers kind of love. The tension and passion between them was at high levels the entire time.
I can’t wait to find out how the next King brother’s story comes about. I have a feeling Miranda isn’t going to be as easily swayed as her two best friends were.
After reading book one in this series I fell in love with cade and iris. This author is brilliant with the sassy, witty women and their counterparts chasing up a storm. Iris is no exception. You want her to be your bbf, and even though she’s hating on cade, it’s hilarious to read and see if they can work through it. Cafe is an absolute star. I couldn’t stop laughing at his antics and comments. They way he deals out life lessons to bear had me chuckling away throughout the book. A must read book.
Anyone but Cade is a hilarious second-chance chance romp!
Cade is one of those guys that can always find fun and humor in a situation. He is quick-witted, fast with a joke and innuendo, and great delivery. He dated Iris in high school, but he just wasn’t mature enough to keep her then, and Iris and her friends swore off the King Brothers for life.
Seven years later, the King Brothers return to town. In the first book of this series, we see Kira and Rich get together, so the King Brothers embargo is clearly no longer in effect.
Iris has grown up a lot, and she still sees Cade as the same immature, irresponsible jokester that he was years ago. Even worse, he has people to do everything from cook to clean, now, so he’s still immature and self-centered. Until…. well, no spoilers here.
Let’s just say Cade turns to Iris for help, and she agrees to help him. They develop a new relationship, and Cade finally does grow up into the man that Iris wants him to be. Their relationship seems genuine, there is a lots of humor, and this book really shows growth in the characters.
Cade’s cleverness is completely entertaining. I don’t remember reading a character that would make me roll my eyes and smile at the same time as much as he does. He has an ability to drain you and exhaust you but at the same time you have to admire his commitment to everything that comes out of his mouth. I have never read a character like him. He is THAT unique. And THAT adorable. The way he handles Bear is just swoon worthy.
But don’t think he is a lost cause destined to be a party starter bachelor. Iris is a great match for him. She can give as good as she takes. And most importantly she can see under his facade and deflective strategies. She also has a bit of a wild side to her. Not as much as he does though so as much as she tries, there is no way to fight against the current when it comes to Cade. With him is always better to give in.
This is the second book int his great fun series and though each book is about a seperate couple do yourself a favour and read Anyone but Rich as well you won’t be disappointed
Many years before Iris dated Cade King at school and to say it didn’t end well would be an understatement The guy was walking talking laugh a minute fun guy who delivered his one liners with such aplomb that half the time it took a while to register exactly what he said. But he broke her heart and walked away So she and her two best friends made a pact they would never date a King brother ever again no matter what happened in the future that turned out to be fairly easy as their family left the town soon after. Now seven years later the King brothers self made billionaires have brought their business back to the town they grew up in and intend to open their corporate headquarters there. Iris is now a local cop but Cade has never grown up yes he is responsible at work but his home life is fully catered to by his wealth, Can too people so different and with such a damaged past find common ground and will they find out that they really are still attracted to one another and can’t walk away this time You will have to read to see
Penelope Bloom is back with another battle of banter romances between the King brothers and the women who made a pact to never fall for their witty charms again!
Well, this time around, it’s Cade Kings turn up on stage to do his best to woo the ever so enchanting, batton wielding Iris the enforcer back into his arms.
He has his work cut out for him- she’d love nothing more than to lock him up and throw away the key, with his mouth duct-taped, of course. Fate may have to step in and throw him an adorable bone!
What they do with all of the swirling, confusions of feels?….
I am all in with the King Brothers!
Fantabulous characters with unique lovable personas, the banter, and internal dialogue in this book were hilarious!
This was good because I got to say I had a hard time getting past Miranda’s arrogant attitude. Was she like that in the first book? I don’t remember her being so snooty? Is this a set up for her story? All I know is, I wanted to take Iris’s batton and smack Miranda with it. j/s
Regardless, In pure Ms. Bloom fashion, she delivered a deliciously funny, sexy, heart of hearts second chance romance that begs to be read!
I look forward to the next book in this series!