From USA Today bestselling author Penelope Bloom comes the first novel in the romantic, sexy, and hilarious Anyone But… series.Seven years ago, my best friends and I made a promise: No matter what, we would never date one of the King brothers. Even if they grew up to become megafamous, gorgeous, heart-stopping billionaires. Even if they crawled on their knees and begged for forgiveness.But guess … for forgiveness.
But guess who just flew back into our lives in a private jet? And guess who just showed up to my job on my first day? Richard. King. Fortunately, it takes two seconds for Richard to reveal he hasn’t changed. Conceited. Cocky. Rude. Unfortunately, he’s also the kind of gorgeous that’s borderline offensive—with a jawline to make statues self-conscious and a grin that short-circuits my brain.
He’s spent years taking what he wants. I doubt he’s hungry for anything else—except me, apparently. There’s no way I’ll let him maneuver his way back into my life. My friends would never forgive me. I would never forgive me. But did I mention his jawline?
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3.5 stars–ANYONE BUT RICH is the first 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-four year old billionaire tech businessman Rich King, and high school drama teacher Kira Summerland’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Rich and Kira) ANYONE BUT RICH follows the enemies to lovers/ second chance romance, of a sorts, between former high school friends twenty four year old Richard ‘Rich’ King and Kira Summerland. Seven years earlier Kira Summerland’s plans for the future were all but destroyed when Richard King interfered in Kira’s hopes and dreams. Fast forward to present day wherein Richard and his brothers Cade and Nick, 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. But first, Rich is desperate to make amends to the girl that stole his heart years before, a woman whose life, once again, is about to implode at the hands of the family King. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship and romance between Rich and Kira, and the potential fall-out as the political machine, and old money ways begin to interfere in the lives of our story line couple.
Seven years earlier, Kira Summerland and her two best friends Miranda and Iris made a pact to never date or fall in love with one of the Kings but promises made in anger and defeat are meant to be broken when the heart longs for something it should now want. Kira’s attraction to Richard is immediate and intense, and she finds herself easily forgiving our hero for past transgressions while desperately trying to avoid her best friends’ promises. Richard King and his brothers struggle with their place in the family-always about money and prestige, the King parental units will do anything to keep appearances including destroying their own children in the process.
The relationship between Rich and Kira is an enemies to lovers forbidden affair, an affair that threatens family and friendships, and promises made in the heat of the moment. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied but I struggled to feel any real palpable love between our leading couple perhaps due in part to outside interference from friends, family and small-minded individuals.
We are introduced to Rich’s twin Cadwick aka Cade, and their younger brother Nick, as well as their parents Harper and Edna King; Kira’s father Mayor Summerland, and her best friends Miranda and Iris who both have a history with one of the King brothers; and Rich’s friend Stella, who has a secret of her own.
ANYONE BUT RICH is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, forgiveness and love. The back and forth frenetic energy between the friends, and the brothers is flirty and fun; all of the parents’ attitudes need a major adjustment in maturity level, behavior and personality- slightly reminiscent of most YA story lines. The premise is entertaining; the romance is tender; the characters are spirited. ANYONE BUT RICH is a charming and delightful introduction to ANYONE BUT…
Anyone But Rich is the first book in the Anyone But… series. Seven years ago, Kira made a promise with her two best friends to always avoid the King brothers, but now Rich is back in town and invading her life. With everything against them, but her heart screaming to give him a chance, is this couple doomed before they even begin?
Wow… this book was amazing! It has everything a good romantic comedy should have, and Kira and Rich stole my attention and love! Kira is small town, a humble teacher, has a mayor for a father, but tries to do as much as she can on her own merits. Rich is just that, rich from both old and new money, has terrible parents and hilarious brothers, has a huge sense of responsibility and is completely driven. I love that Kira and Rich are so different, but once they’re together, they fit together like two pieces of a puzzle. I love that Kira didn’t just forgive Rich right away, but called him out on his crap, just like he called her out on her little insecurities. They complimented each other really well once they could get past their past. I loved that this book didn’t flash back to their high school years (except the prologue) and just focused on the now – the trials, the triumphs, and the delightful tensions between them all! This book wasn’t over the top with steam, but there’s a lot of character development, connection building, and when the steam showed up, it was perfect and romantic, too! While I didn’t often laugh out loud at scenes in this book, I definitely found the humor! I also loved all of the side characters, they were completely fabulous, and I look forward to seeing how they might fit in with future books and relationships! I have a feeling this series is just going to be amazing!
First of all, I want to say I was going on a limb here (as I have not read the author before) but the blurb had me intrigued.
Secondly, I have been spoilt for choice lately with fantastic books – so that may have played into the “okayish” factor.
I just couldn’t really get into it, didn’t feel the connection I normally get with the characters.
This is HUGELY IMPORTANT for my enjoyment of a book. I did like Cade though, he made me giggle.
Can’t say it’s one of my favourites, but it was an easy read that will definitely appeal to others.
3.5 stars
I found this book to be a very enjoyable read with the good character and storyline development that kept me totally enthralled until the turn of the very last page!
This was a first time read by Penelope Bloom and after reading the synopsis for the first book in her Anyone But… series, I was quite excited to snag a copy of Nothing But Rich.
I already love that the main characters, Rich and Kira, already had some history together. We get teased a little bit here and there that something big happened and ended in this 7 year pact with Kira and her friends. Being in a small town and having the alluring King brothers leave town, it was an easy promise to keep. Until they all return.
Once we learn the truth of what happened, it didn’t quite hit me like I expected it too. I kind of wanted to know more details and just all the emotions around it because Kira was doing some major loathing of Rich for several years. And I wanted to truly see all of that.
There were definitely some hilarious moments scattered throughout the book , but it had me questioning their maturity level more often than I’d like. And in the beginning, I wasn’t so sure about Kira’s friends. They weren’t exactly on my good side, but I am looking forward to their stories in the next couple of books.
I think I would have liked to see more happening throughout the book overall, it just didn’t seem like a whole lot was going on.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, I finished it in one sitting! Penelope writes with a different kind of humor than I’m used to, but I think I could come around to it. Definitely looking for the rest of this series.
**I RECEIVED A COMPLIMENTARY READER’S COPY FROM THE PUBLISHER THIS DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR CONTENT OF MY REVIEW**
4.5 Funny Stars
I giggled and laughed so much. Kira Summerland was a mix between sexy librarian, serious teacher and hot mess. Her klutziness was adorable and funny and something that totally turned Rich King on.
Rich King on the other hand…he was serious and sexy and determined to earn Kira’s forgiveness from what he did seven years ago. But Kira and her besties swore off the King brothers back then and now that they’re back in town and the more he’s around all those old high school crushes feels are coming back.
Now Kira has to deal with her besties against them along with others determined to keep her and Rich apart. But by gosh, they’re going to be together no matter what it takes.
This was my first Penelope Bloom novel and I absolutely LOVED it! I can’t wait to read Cade and Nick’s stories because those other two King brothers were characters that had me laughing just as much as Kira did. Those two were something else. I’m excited for their books to follow.
Penelope is a newish author to me but I found myself very entertained by her characters. I have been meaning to read her Objects of Attraction Series for some time now. Now I know exactly what I am in for. Anyone But Rich is a tale about a man returning home only to have his life turned upside down by a woman he spurned years ago.
When they were in high school, Kira and her two friends made a pact that they would never let a man make you choose between him and your friends, especially NOT a King man. But something happens when Rich returns home and sees Kira, things begin turning in a direction that they never saw coming. Kira is a school teacher who has some history with our leading man, Rich. That history is what brings them back together.
I love a book with chemistry between the two leads, so their banter is great. It was nice to watch him try to break down the wall she had up, to show her that he isn’t the man she remembers. No matter what Rich tries, it always comes back to the pact.
The pact in question. Is it a problem or a way to get around themselves?
This book is hilarious. The side characters were hilarious; Rich’s twin brother is the court jester of the group, kept me laughing. I know their books are going to be just as funny. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to be entertained and likes when a man knows he screwed and tries to fix it at any cost.
ARC generously given by Netgalley and Montlake Romance.
A fun second chance romance read! This newest release was enjoyable from the start and got sweeter as Rich try to reconnect with Kira. But when their family finds way to ruin their reunion will they be able to find their HEA. Likable characters, easy to read, and an entertaining storyline made this one to read. I can’t wait for the next story in this series that doesn’t disappoint.
Anyone But rRich is such a good read. Richard King and his family is coming back to their small hometown and not everyone is happy about it. Kira Sommerland and her two friend, Iris and Miranda are very, very unhappy about it. Seven years ago Rich did something to Kira and hurt her. These three girls made a pact to never be with a King brother again. That promise has been put into effect again. However, Rich wants to make things right with Kira, but Kira has her walls high up and tightly packed. Rich is willing to do what it takes to get her forgiveness. I was laughing through this book. Kira’s friends and Rich’s brothers has me laughing out loud. While there is laughter, there was also sadness and anger. Not everyone want Rich and Kira be together. There is deception, blackmail, suspense and some things happening that made me want to smack some characters upside their heads. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to read what would happen next. This story was great and I can’t wait to read Cade’s and Nick’s stories. I bet they will have me laughing again. Don’t miss out on this rom-com.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I wish I could say that I enjoyed it but honestly, I didn’t. I found this story slow, boring and I didn’t really care for the majority of the characters. Kira, Iris, Miranda, Rich, Cade and Nick were a group of grown men and women acting like children. Some of their antics made me laugh out loud but that’s about it. I absolutely hated Rich, Cade and Nick’s parents Edna and Harper, they were snobbish and uppity throughout the whole story. The ending was sweet and funny but even with that, I feel that this story was not for me.
4 Stars
Review by: Alysia
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Anyone but Rich by Penelope Bloom was a quick and easy read. It was good but not five-star good in my opinion. It was a story that is every small town girls fantasy, to win the heart of a billionaire.
Rich King and his brothers would melt the hearts of every girl around when they were teenagers. They broke hearts as much as they changed clothes. Kira was one of their victims. Once the King brothers moved away Kira and her besties made a vow to never let another boy get between them and to never have a friendship with a King. Easy enough when they are in another state. Right?
Many years later, Rich can’t get Kira out of his mind so, when his brothers pitch the idea to expand their multi-billion dollar business back home he agrees. He will finally get the chance to apologize. If only it were that easy. Kira has stuck to the vow she made back in high school and won’t listen to his apology. He has to work for forgiveness.
Kira and Rich are the definition of forbidden love. His parents will stop at nothing to keep them apart. They are from “old money” and want their son to aid their reputation in that world of class. Will Kira and Rich let them win?
I loved how funny and realistic the characters were. Kira and Rich both had best friends that would keep them entertained and on their toes.
This story was in dual POV depending on the chapter.
I love Penelope Bloom’s wit in her books. I found myself laughing out loud multiple times while reading this. Kira and her best friends had made a pact to stay away from the King brothers no matter what. When their business brings them back to town, Kira tries her hardest to keep her promise in the pact. Richard King doesn’t make it easy for her though. His twin brother Cade, is hilarious and really keeps things interesting. Nick is the more shy one of the brothers. Kira’s best friend Iris is also funny and has a thing with her nightstick. I can’t wait for the rest of their stories.
Anyone But Rich was a fantastic, well-written, enjoyable, entertaining story w/great characters. Hooked from the beginning – couldn’t put it down. Off the charts chemistry between Rich and Kira. Can’t wait for Cade and Nick’s stories.
This was my first read from this author. The cover intrigued me. Then the blurb was a bit enticing. I decided to give it ago. I didn’t love this book, but I also didn’t dislike this one. This is another one where I am in the middle with my thoughts.
I can say, hands down, I did not like Kira. For an adult, she (and her friends) acted like a twelve year old girl with her grudges and reactions. When it came to her I did more eye rolling than anything. I spent much of the book hoping she didn’t get the guy.
I liked Rich’s character. He had a lot of redeeming qualities for a former high school bully. I don’t have anything negative to say about him, that is for sure. I really wanted him to get his happily ever after.
The book is filled with some really great scenes and some really not so great scenes. I mostly enjoyed them. The wedding was a bit much. It was a bit too out of the box “norm” for me.
Overall, I was back and forth with my thoughts on this book. I did mostly enjoy it. It was written well enough. I will most likely read the next book in the series. I am curious to see the next brother get his woman.
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the rest of the series. This is a great group of characters ready for their second chances!
I thought that this was a very enjoyable read and an excellent start to this new series. There is plenty of humor, witty banter and sparks flying as Kira and Rich’s story unfolds. I thought that the quirky storyline just the right amount of tension, heat, emotional turmoil, drama and sweetness to capture and keep your attention. A very fun read about the struggle that can happen between your heart and your head. I eagerly look forward to future enteries in this series.
“…we’ll never date them again. No matter what.”
Famous last words, ladies. This book, which will be a standalone in a set of three stories with interconnecting characters, was delightful! When three best friends-Kira, Iris, and Miranda make a pact to never date the King brothers again, you wonder what the heck has happened. Fast forward seven years, the billionaire brothers are back in town, and Rich King wants to make peace with Kira. I love the humour Penelope Bloom brings to her books (poopetrator. That’s all I’m saying). The characters are quirky (Iris’ nightstick) and fun. While I loved what Rich was willing to do to win over Kira, I am just as excited to see what’s coming up for his brothers Cade and Nate. This story wasn’t all fun and games, there’s also some family interference which is only partially resolved. Fun rom-com.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
As teenagers they made a pact never to date any of the King brothers again. Sister solidarity was more important.
Seven years later and under threat of the return of the kings, the pact is remade.
Shes still on his mind, even after all this time. He needs to clear his conscience, by apologising.
Will she be gracious and accept, or is it simply to late…
Three men to make you smile, laugh and swoon like a teenager!
Nick is sensible, Cade is wild and Rich is the the one to control it all.
Kira on the other hand is a little of everything, but shes far from a pushover.
The secret of seven years ago played on my mind so much! I was dying to know what happened and why.
The reveal didnt have me dissapointed I gasped, paused and fully understood Kiras actions towards Rich.
An enjoyable read from start to finish. Characters to love, characters to hate and a storyline to lose yourself in.
Four stars from me.
A teenage pact.
Three girls and their evil nemeses dated to come face to face after a seven year hiatus.
The poor townies vs. The billionaire wunderkind.
Who will win and who will go down as the biggest losers?
It’s sounds like Cade is typing this. Or it will…
Q:How do you know if there is a dinosaur in your refrigerator?
A: The door won’t shut!
Don’t pretend you didn’t enjoy that. Cade will put you in nutcuffs!
Talk about interesting characters. These six have unique personalities that will keep you wondering.
If you are looking for a crazy, weird romp through the psyche of this crew…I suggest seeking your own mental health provider. If you are looking for a little crazy in your normal, I salute you. Also I suggest wine, Cade is going to need it!
3.5 stars!
Penelope Bloom was a ‘new to me’ author and she was good!
I did like the book, did i absolutely love it? No but it was good book to read anyway. It was probably just me but i felt like it was missing something. It had the humour from Rich’s brothers and Kira’s friends and the storyline was good it just felt abit different to what i normally read.
Rich i was actually pretty surprised about. I assumed when i read the blurb he was going to be pompous and abit of a douche but colour me surprised that he wasn’t.
Kira she was ok, she seemed slightly childish at times and like she didn’t know when to stop talking but i didn’t really click with her well.
Overall it was a good book, maybe just not my cup of tea?
Would i read another Penelope Bloom book? Yes. You can’t completely judge someone by one book.