Every workplace has that one person you don’t want to mess with. At James & Peterson Investigations, that would be Cameron Grant: sullen, grouchy, intimidating, oh yeah, and sexy as hell. He can make your soul wither with a single disapproving glare. And he never, ever socialises with his co-workers.This is why Maisie Wilkins, happy-go-lucky ray of sunshine, can’t fathom why Cameron finally … fathom why Cameron finally decided to show up at their annual office Christmas party. Every year he received an invite, and every year he failed to attend. But not this year.
Curious as to why he’s there, Maisie can’t resist sitting next to Cameron. Before she knows it, she’s had one too many drinks and is drunkenly hailing a cab back to his place. Office party flings are not something she normally does, but despite his intimidating character, Cameron has a charm she can’t resist. Or maybe it was just those five gin and tonics blurring her judgement.
Whatever the reason, Maisie now has to navigate the awkward, tension filled waters of sharing an office with someone she’s slept with.
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L.H. Cosway never disappoints! Maisie is a charming, endearing heroine, while Cameron is a somewhat broody, grumpy but likeable hero. No one writes chemistry quite like L.H. Cosway, and these two have it in spades. Humour, sexy romance, and the mystery subplot kept me hooked from start to finish! LOVED IT.
Romance Rehab: book recs, author services, general badassery: https://www.romancerehab.com/
Overall, this was a pretty cute office rom com with a gruff, loner hero and a sweet, happy-go-lucky heroine (hence the title of the book).
Plot overview: Sweet, sunshine-y Maisie gets a little tipsy at the office Christmas party and ends up in bed with gruff, grumpy, anti-social Cameron. Hijinks ensue.
Maisie was a pretty likeable heroine. I enjoyed that while she did have an almost pathological need to be liked, she managed to not be an annoying doormat. When the situation called for it, she was able to stand up for herself nicely. Watching her earn her promotion (she’s promoted from researcher to investigator at her PI firm) and never feel the need to apologize for her success to those who don’t feel she deserved it was really nice. It was an empowering message.
Cameron is my favorite kind of romance hero. He’s grumpy and sometimes rude/antisocial, and completely befuddled by what he feels for the heroine. He was never disrespectful of Maisie, and even though it was difficult for him to communicate his feelings, he managed to do a decent job of it because it was what she needed. As far as book boyfriends go, Cameron easily earned a spot on my keeper shelf.
Now, while I enjoyed the story overall and REALLY adore LH Cosway’s writing voice, I will say that at 372 pages, this book felt a little too long to me. There were some spots in the middle of the book that dragged a bit. I kind of feel like romance novels should be right around or under 300 pages. Books that go over that often make me skim read a little in the middle. That’s not a hard-and-fast rule, of course. I mean, Kristen Ashley pulls off long romances nicely. But in general, I prefer a shorter romance to avoid boredom at the halfway point.
But, all in all, this was a cute, light-hearted read with a likeable heroine and a super sexy hero. It’s definitely worth a read.
As with every single L.H. Cosway book in existence, I LOVED THIS BOOK. I loved it so hard. I immediately sent my sister a copy. (She is on the brink of a career in Private Investigation. It’s appropriate)
Maisie Wilkins is a little too eager to please, Cameron Grant is a little too eager to keep everyone far far away. If that’s not a match made in Cosway heaven, I don’t know what is. This is the office romance I didn’t even know I needed. Both characters evolve over time as they rub off on each other.
One of the things that I love most about L.H. Coway’s stories, is that there is always a ridiculously interesting plot. It’s a romance, but the romance isn’t the only thing happening. You know, kind of like real life. Not only is the plot absolutely magnetic (put it down. I dare you.), but the setting is perfect. The private investigator angle is fresh and lovely. HERE. FOR. IT
ssshwearereading.wordpress.com/2019/12/15/happy-go-lucky-by-l-h-cosway/
Happy-Go-Lucky is such a wonderful story. It is a funny and swoony slow burn romance with an entertaining mystery running through it.
“That almost smile etched itself into my heart. Cameron’s expressions of happiness were so few and far between that I kept them all secreted away, to swoon and obsess over in my free time.”
Maise is an amazing fun and quirky heroine. She has a great outlook and I couldn’t help falling in love with her. Even grumpy Cameron has no chance to resist.
“Cameron Grant was the yin to my yang. The wine to my cheese. The ketchup to my mustard. He tempered everything I was with everything that he was, and my life was infinitely better with him in it.”
I absolutely loved reading Happy-Go-Lucky and listening to the audiobook was even better. This will definitely be on my re-listen line up!
-5 Stars!-
Short review. A quirky love story that will have you smiling and leave you wanting more. I really liked Maisie and Cameron they have sizzling funny banter and are interesting characters with many layers to them. I like how they both brought out sides of each other that many people didn’t get to see and how much they deeply cared and understood the other. The mystery was well done even though it did slow down the Maisie and Cameron getting together who wanted to wait until it was solve to be together. The more they try to wait until the case is solve the more they want to say to hell with and give into their feelings. I really hope that Maisie and Cameron get a sequel or a gets turn into a series of books.
Another great story that just fell short of 5 stars. Original take on an old trope, I was definitely hooked for the first 75% or so. Then it felt like more plot was just tacked on to increase the page count. A little judicious editing would have put this up there with my all-time favorites.
“Cameron Grant was the yin to my yang. The wine to my cheese. The ketchup to my mustard. He tempered everything I was with everything that he was, and my life was infinitely better with him in it.”
A very sweet feel good romance.
I enjoyed all the cast of characters and the storyline. It gave me a cozy mystery vibe which I loved.
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 4/5
Main Characters (hero/heroine)~ 4/5
Secondary Characters~ 4/5
The Feels~ 4/5
Pacing~ 4/5
Addictiveness~4/5
Angst~ 4/5
Steam/Hotness/Chemisty ~ 4/5
Theme or Tone~ 4/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 4/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 4/5
Originality~ 4/5
Ending~ 4/5
Book Cover~ Cute
Series~ stand-alone
Source~ Kindle eBook – Borrowed from KU
Would I read more from the author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Favorite Quote:
I found it weird to think of him having parents, siblings. I was used to imagining him as some sort of perfect-looking vampire who slept in a coffin and consumed only blood. Then again, it was hard to explain the whole daylight thing.
Any mention of a man and she got a very specific look in her eye, like a mother in a period drama with a spinster daughter she was eager to marry off.
“You know, you might be right. I probably should stop bringing donuts to the office. They say sugar can have an adverse effect on testosterone levels. Oh,” I smacked my hand to mouth like I’d just come to some dramatic realisation. “That might be why you’re all standing around here gossiping and bitching about me like a bunch of old ladies.”
I was falling for this man, drowning in the sea of him and there was no swimming back to the surface… With Cameron, it was like there were more feelings inside of me than my body was capable of holding.
And when he asked me what my favourite spice was, I said Sporty. I think that’s where the date started to go downhill…
He smiled at me, the sort of rare smile that made you believe you were hearing angels sing.
My Review:
This was a fun and wryly amusing read featuring an office romance where opposites attract and create a beautiful result where the whole is greater than the parts. Cameron was exacting in his work while tetchy and uncaring of how other people regarded him, while Maisie was an optimist who bent over backward in her constant efforts and concern in pleasing others. I adored their storylines, blossoming romance, and quirky office dynamics.
Ms. Cosway’s engaging writing was entertaining, well balanced, insightfully observant, and loaded with clever wit and stealthy levity as well as a few delectable scenes of sizzling sensuality. She also had me Googling ASMR, something I’d never taken note of before, which led to falling into a YouTube wormhole while experimenting with various video mavens until I shook myself loose. Funny how that happens…
This book was such a great office romance read. It was everything sweet and funny and sexy all wrapped up in a cute bow. I absolutely loved the characters! Maisie was such a ray of sunshine, but I loved how she learned and grew through out the story. And Cameron, oh Cameron. I do love a brooding, cranky hero. He was hot and so sweet once Maisie was able to break through his tough shell. This book started off with a bang and just kept on going. There was romance and intrigue and it honestly took some turns that I was not expecting, BUT I am so glad they did. I am a huge LH Cosway fan and this book was on par with all of her unique romances. I loved it and can’t wait for Lilah and Theo’s story!
The perfect office romance! Cosway takes the trope to a whole new level.
Happy Go Lucky follows Cameron and Maisie and their illicit yet, hot affair. The two hook up after an office Christmas party once Maisie has a little too much to drink. Whilst they both try profusely to keep their tryst under wraps they can’t help but ache for more of each other.
Cameron is your moody, broody, intimidating colleague and Maisie is all sunshine and rainbows in the most endearing way. The two perfectly balance each other out. Somber and sweet, dark and light, serious and light hearted.
They work together at a PI firm and Cosway manages to weave in the perfect amount of depth, mystery and intrigue throughout the plot and story that leaves you wanting more and fully satisfied all at the same time.
I really hope Nick gets a story cause I’d love to know more about him!
Bringing the magic & mystery back to office romance
Loved it!! Masie is simply irresistible in her enthusiasm and even the office grump can’t resist. She and Cameron are adorable together!! Love the mix of mystery, romance, and personal discovery. Perfect. Makes me think if Audrey Hepburn & Cary Grant or maybe Grace & Cary…old Hollywood mystery romance. I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I first started reading Happy-Go-Lucky in LH Cosway’s newsletter and anxiously awaited each month for the next part of the story! I adored Maisie and Cameron and the adventure they find themselves on. There is a bit of mystery/suspense in this novel that I was not expecting and I wish the romance/angst was more present. However I cannot wait until LH Cosway’s next book!
4.5 Stars!
Maisie Wilkins works as the primary researcher at a private investigation firm in the seaside town in England called Torquay. She’s friendly, kind, and constantly cheerful. Her childhood nickname was Happy-go-Lucky, and she was a people pleaser who others often tried to take advantage of. She considered herself slightly awkward, generally uninteresting, but a good person. Her love life had been pretty boring for a while, but she did have a work crush on the head investigator at her firm. She’d admired Cameron Grant from afar for years, and he’d often starred in her fantasies. He was quite handsome, and her attraction to him had always been harmless since she assumed he’d never be interested in her.
When Maisie attends the annual office Christmas party, she is shocked to see Cameron there. He never shows up for functions, and doesn’t socialize with co-workers. He’s usually cranky, and keeps to himself. He’s intimidating, and a bit terrifying, but when Maisie notices he’s sitting all alone, she decides to be polite, and sit with him. They are complete opposites, but somehow they have some conversation, a few drinks, and end up back at his place. They spend an unforgettable night together, and then have to navigate working together. Maisie can’t afford to jeopardize her job, but she can’t deny how badly she wants her sexy, co-worker with an attitude.
Happy-go-Lucky by L.H. Cosway is a sweet, funny, steamy workplace romance that’s captivating and delightful. Opposites attract and we get a story packed with chemistry, mystery and suspense. I really enjoyed this book and loved Maisie’s character and how she evolved throughout the story.
LH Cosway is a favorite author of mine, and this book does not disappoint. Maisie and Cameron have to put having a relationship on hold due to work, but their chemistry can’t be denied, and they aren’t on hold for long. Eventually they get their chance.
This is a well-written, well-developed book, with a clear story line and solid character development. Definitely worth the read!
Happy-Go-Lucky was so freakin adorable I loved it. I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump, couldn’t really find anything that I wanted to read, that sounded good, that could hold my interest. Then I saw LH Cosway had a new story out so I thought why not give it a go. And it officially got me out of my slump. Because Cameron and Maisie are so cute together I couldn’t stop reading.
Maisie and Cameron have been working together for a while, but they don’t really know each other. Cameron is the office grump. The guy no one really knows. The one who doesn’t go to the office parties or participate in the fun activities or really even talks to anyone.
Maisie is a huge people pleaser. She hates the idea of anyone not liking her so she goes out of her way to do everything she can to get everyone to like her. She brings donuts to the office every week, does anything anyone asks her to including extra work her coworkers dump on her, she does it all. Because she wants to be liked so she can’t say no. Only…she is pretty invisible. No one really talks with her except her friend. No one listens when she tries to contribute to conversations. Her coworkers are definitely not worth the effort she puts in as they use her friendliness against her. She is a bit of a pushover, but she doesn’t know how to be any other way.
When Cameron shows up for the office Christmas party it is odd. He has never come to one before. When Maisie sees him sitting all alone she has to go say hi. I mean maybe he is making an effort and no one else will talk to him? Gah they were so cute together! I do have a weakness for grumbly guys who are super sweet underneath all that. And Cameron is the best. His bark is worse than his bite and once you see through it, he is so sweet.
I loved how this was an office romance, but one where they can’t really be together yet because of the power dynamics and they really try and stick to that. You see these two who obvious like each other so so much, but they agreed to not act on it right away (after that first drunken night) and I loved the tension there. I know Cameron could be really gruff, but his reasons why…phew! And Maisie was so sweet and they are perfect for each other. They help the other be better people. Happier people. Oh, they were adorable. Plus we have the fun PI stuff where they are trying to figure out a few things and what different people are up to. I loved that and how Maisie might doubt herself, but is learning to trust her instincts. It was a super fun, super cute read.
*Note: I received a free copy of this book for voluntary review consideration
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
This was such a fun sweet story. Maisie is insecure and does a good job hiding it from those around her. When the gorgeous man she works with shows up at the office Christmas party she decides to talk to him. They decide to go back to his place after too many drinks. She will have to see her one nightstand at the office everyday.
The way the mystery in this book unfolds is perfect with the romance aspect. You can’t help but like these characters and the secondary characters. L.H. Cosway writes some fantastic books that pull you in from page one. This is a must read!
4.5 stars
If you have read Fauxmance then you will recognize Cameron as Ellen’s grumpy brother. He is so closed off you can’t imagine that he would ever find love. That is until he gets his hands on Maisie. Cameron is an investigator at a PI firm and Maisie is a researcher. He has been forced by his boss to attend the annual Christmas party and make nice with his co-workers. Maisie is the co-worker that wants everyone to love her and tries way too hard. Maisie approaches Cameron at the party, drinks are had, and they end up going home together.
I really loved these two together. They both brought things to each other’s lives. They were the perfect example of meeting your soul mate and bringing out the best in each other. Cameron is blunt, and at times he seems harsh, but Maisie needed to understand that she doesn’t have to be liked by everyone. Cameron helped open her eyes. In return Maisie’s happy go lucky personality brought lightness to Cameron. She makes him laugh and he genuinely likes her even tough he doesn’t like anyone.
I loved the mystery that unraveled in this book as Cameron and Maisie work together to solve a case. At times I felt like the romance was taking a back seat to the mystery. I would have liked a bit more of Cameron and Maisie as a couple. I am also a big fan of dual POV so getting into Cameron’s head probably would have helped. All in all, I really enjoyed this novel. It is one of those books that just puts a smile on your face as you are reading it. Well done!
Happy Go Lucky made me so incredibly happy while reading it; it’s definitely my feel-good of the year! I loved the story and the main characters, Maise and Cameron, are now one of my favorite book couples, they made me happy sigh so much! This little gem packs a wallop, moving along at a fast pace, it’s filled with romance and suspense that kept me on my toes. The characters were so well developed, and I loved the chemistry and dialogue between them; I felt like I was watching a BBC show, as if it came to life as I was reading it, picturing everything in my head. These are the best reads, and only very few and talented authors have the gift to transform seemingly simple words into magical stories, that sweep us along for a wild and amazing ride!
Maise Wilkins has worked at James & Peterson Investigations for five years, as the primary researcher. She’s a quirky bird, so to say, and for some reason her happy attitude is irksome to most of her coworkers. Maise takes on extra work, smiles too much, and laughs too often; she just wants desperately to be liked. This year, without overthinking too much, Maize decides to sit next to the office grouch, at the Christmas party, and that seemingly simple decision turns her quiet and unassuming world upside down.
“Cameron Grant was the yin to my yang. The wine to my cheese. The ketchup to my mustard. He tempered everything that he was, and my life was infinitely better with him in it.”
Cameron Grant is the head investigator at J&P, very handsome but a little bit feared by his coworkers, due to his anti-social and grumpy behavior. He’d never attended a company Christmas party, but this year he was told by his boss his prescence was required, so he’s not a happy camper. He’s familiar with Maise since he’s been observing her for some time now and is familiar with her mannerisms and while he’s not happy she unexpectedly joined him, he decides to tolerate her until he can make his escape. Cameron soon warms up to Maize and after they’ve had a few drinks he even offers her some unsolicited advice. And a ride home, where they promptly jump each other’s bones.
“My parents called me Happy-Go-Lucky as a little girl, but I never really knew the true meaning of the phrase until I found this man who shone a light on all the best and worst parts of me. Now I knew what true happiness, true contentment felt like.”
These two decide to pretend nothing happened between them at work, to remain coworkers only, until they’re forced to work more closely together. When they begin working on a seemingly simple case, they quickly resolve it, but it soon leads them to another case, and then that one leads to a bigger and possibly more dangerous case. Meanwhile, they’re fighting a deep and growing attraction that’s growing stronger between them, as they spend more time together. At this point, they should just give it up and admit they’re perfect for each other LOL! I loved this story and kept telling my book buddies about it, as I was reading it. And just wait for the very happy end!
Happy-Go-Lucky is a fun lighthearted romantic comedy that has office romance, holiday party one night stand,opposites attract and a mystery that’s just waiting to be solved. In L.H. Cosway’s latest offering we meet Maisie Wilkins, our happy go lucky soon to be private investigator at her firm. She will be trained under the talented but moody, very moody and of course very good looking Cameron Grant, whom she happened to have had a slightly drunk one night stand with! As expected we have that office romance under the radar theme plus lots of mysteries just waiting to be solved. Ms. Cosway is known for her intense romances with characters that have a lot of angst in life. We can still see traces of that in most of her characters here but its very well balanced with humor and the situational plot that both Maisie and Cameron must navigate to solve the every growing mystery of whodunit!
I loved Happy-Go-Lucky because it had two adorable characters that are worth getting to know, a subplot that could be turned into a full on series( James & Petersons Investigations!) a romance full of humor and poignancy and bitchy co-workers that gets their due!
“Cameron Grant was the yin to my yang. The wine to my cheese. The ketchup to my mustard.”
I loved this book, it had suspense, a mystery, intrigue, humour and a lovely, slow building office romance full of sweet but sexy hot chemistry.
Maisie and Cameron work for the same PI firm and are polar opposites. He is grumpy, anti-social and a bit intimidating. She is a ray of sunshine, quirky, always smiling but worries too much what people think. She’s eager to please and hates upsetting anyone which means people taking advantage of her good nature. A few too many drinks at the Christmas party lead to a passionate night together, a night neither can forget. Despite their best efforts to keep it professional and a one off, they find themselves slowly opening up to each and realise their chemistry can’t be ignored.
“You are relentlessly cheerful,” he said, like it both confounded and amazed him. “And you are relentlessly grumpy. We’re a match made in heaven. At the very least we cancel each other out.”
Cameron and Maisie were so good together, I really liked them both. Opposites attract and in this beautifully written, humorous book, their traits rub off on one another. I loved how we saw Cameron learning to relax and open up and Maisie gain the confidence needed to stand up for herself. It was a slow burn sweet romance, with some lovely steamy moments (yay for stationery cupboards ) and a taste of the suspense and drama in the world of PI’s.
Happy-Go-Lucky made me smile, laugh, swoon and kept me turning the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I can’t for what comes next from L H Cosway (Lilah )
Rating 4.5 stars