I romanced her for revenge…but what if she’s not the enemy after all? I’m Clint Holmes. I was an ambitious guy with a busy life and a growing business. Sure North Dakota wasn’t a tropical paradise, but I was happy enough—until tragedy struck. Now the only thing that matters is finding the person responsible and making her pay. But Bethany Banks is a Harvard-educated shark used to swallowing her … Harvard-educated shark used to swallowing her enemies whole while playing dangerous corporate games. How can a blue-collar oil man like me possibly beat her?
The moment I lay eyes on my beautiful nemesis, the answer is obvious. I seduce her.
On Maui, where she’s fled, I get to know the man-eater who caused my family so much pain…only to find she’s not the brazen ballbuster I assumed. She’s skittish, secretive, vulnerable. For some reason, my instinct is to protect her. I can’t abandon my plan…but I can’t stop wanting her. Night after night, I pry her open with my touch until I’m drowning in our passion. Soon, I’m questioning everything, especially the fine line between love and hate. But when the past comes back to wreak vengeance and the truth explodes, can I prove that I’m more than tempted to love her forever?
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This week I read another enemies to lovers ARC and was not disappointed. Clint is devastated when his father has a heart attack and the company is in ruins. Someone has to pay and he is out for revenge. Bethany Banks is who is he looking for but she has disappeared until Clint’s friend finds her working at a bar in Hawaii. Soon Clint finds himself in Hawaii and working as a bartender under an assumed name to get close to her. So many lies and deceit to find out the truth but will the truth make everything better?
I did not read the rest of the series but was not lost and found this could be read as a stand alone.
The Barclay siblings we read about in this series are all dealing with the aftermath of their father’s actions and just their own experiences. Bethany is the sibling this book revolves around. Clint loses his father and it seems that stress after Bethany’s father’s betrayal may have been the cause! Clint is determined to get revenge. After losing both parents and having siblings to keep an eye on now, he wants what he thinks his family deserves, his father’s money.
Clint is a hardworking man who has gone his own way when it comes to career choices. Family has become more important to him since his mother passed away, so losing his father as well was devestating. I can only imagine how much grief fueled him wanting revenge for his family.
I thought it was rather ironic that Clint had to lie to find revenge. As we know, life never goes as planned and when Bethany isn’t what he think she’ll be, he’s really confused. Clint works at the same bar as her to get close, but as he gets to know her, he can’t help but start developing feelings. It’s clear Bethany has her own things to go through. We don’t know much about that though, because we mostly only get Clint’s POV. I normally don’t like that, but it fit this story. It kept it mysterious, what was going on with Bethany and how will it all work out.
More Than Tempt You was everything I was hoping for. I loved seeing them get to know each other and him being surprised about how different she was than he expected. With not having Bethany’s POV in the beginning, I had a hard time connecting with her, but I did really enjoy her character. Most of all I enjoyed reading about characters from previous books and how they all fit together. This added a certain element to this story that Clint didn’t see coming.
I don’t want to give away too much, because this really is a story you need to read yourself! I recommend this story, but the previous ones as well. These characters are amazing and the way Shayla tells their story leaves you satisfied, but wanting more! More Than Tempt You makes you feel a lot, laugh, cry and smack the characters, haha. Add some steamy moments and this makes the journey complete.
Reading another installment in this series reminds me once again I need to get around to reading the first two books ASAP. I have come to love all of these characters and their stories! I really recommend this book and author!
When it comes to a Shayla Black book I don’t have to see the cover or read the blurb…I just buy because I know I will love it. She never ceases to amaze me with the complexity of her characters, the intricacies and depth of her stories. Highly charged emotions and behaviors such as shame, treachery, deceit, manipulation and remorse are examined as an essential component to this gripping romance.
Clint Holmes needs answers and someone to blame for a family tragedy. Despite news to the contrary he’s decided that Bethany Banks is guilty and has the information he needs. What he doesn’t count on is falling for this woman who is the opposite of the pictures he’s painted of her in his mind. His heart, gut and brain go to war as he slowly begins to tear down the walls of a woman who has closed herself off to all but her family. Hearing her side of the story fits with the woman he’s come to know and yet he rushes to judgement despite what his heart knows to be the truth.
Once again this author takes my breath away with a story that completely steals my heart. The characters are complex and relatable, you just can’t put their story down. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. From page one I knew I’d be up late into the night reading, I just couldn’t put it down. I love this authors writing style and the attention to even the smallest details. Five huge stars all the way!
While I was a little confused at the beginning of this story on what was going on, I quickly caught up and used context clues to figure it out, especially since I didn’t read the previous books in this series. While it’s not required, I feel that reading them probably would have given me better understanding into the characters and context surrounding the book and situation. Clint is reluctant to go home and is annoyed by his father’s persistence. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes in multiple ways, leaving Clint to pick up the pieces while figuring out what happened. Being scorned and out for revenge, he seeks justice by ruining what he thinks is the source of the tragedy – Bethany. After her father’s betrayal and manipulation, Bethany meets her siblings for the first time and attempts to bide her time and figure out her next move in life. When Clint finally finds Bethany, he exacts a plan to expose her and get the justice he so desperately needs, but as he gets to know Bethany and finds out bits and pieces of the situation that he was unaware of, he wonders if justice is being found in the correct place. When everyone’s truth is exposed, the big question is if Clint and Bethany come through it together. Overall, while I felt that the flow of the book dragged on and the climactic point was a bit sudden, it was a decent read. With that being said, I would definitely recommend reading the books prior in the series though.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Clint is going to do whatever it takes to take Bethany down. He had it in his mind that she was the reason for what happened at the company she worked for. She had to be and he just couldn’t see it any other way.
Then he met her and was not so sure. She sure was different than what he was expecting in every aspect. The more he got to know her, the more he started feeling more than just dislike for her, he knew he had to be wrong. Was there a way to prove it? Was there a way to prove to her that his feelings were real even though it all started as a lie?
Loved seeing the way Clint was slowly coming around and the way that he was with her. Then I fell in love with Bethany’s family who was there for her when she needed them. Enjoyed this book!
Book 5 in the More than Words series, and although I have not read the first 3 books I had no problem following and enjoying this installment.
Sexy, intense and full of intrigue!
I was easily seduced with Bethany and Clint’s story as their intense emotional pull and undeniable chemistry was strong despite their reservations due to painful pasts.
Overall, I enjoyed this read, however as the story evolved, more and more characters kept getting introduced making it hard for me to keep up with all of them. Then ending felt rushed and somewhat unrealistic to the story.
3.5 stars!
Clint has worked hard to forge his own path but suddenly losing his Dad sends him down a path for vengeance. Seeking out Bethany, the woman he believes caused his father’s death leads him to a woman that completely takes him by surprise. As he gets to know Bethany, he finds it hard to fight his attraction for her. She is a confident, strong woman that also has a soft heart and a desire to help others. So not what he expected. Of course, the bubble that they have created for themselves won’t last forever. What happens when Clint’s secrets are revealed? Even worse, when Bethany’s father surfaces? Will they still have a chance for love? I loved how this story kept us connected to Bethany’s family that she recently met. They are a great support and allow us to learn more about the characters that we met in the other books in the series. We also get all the amazing sexy encounters between Clint and Bethany as they get to know each other. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Shayla Black is one author that knows her stuff. She’s not afraid to go beyond the beauty and expose the flaws that are often glossed over in romance. She dares to be bold and show the human side not just the fairytale fantasy. More than Tempt You begins as a temptation. A plot for revenge proves a wake-up call for two guarded hearts. Clint has seen his share of tragedy, will he be instrumental in becoming his own undoing? Broken hearts, hidden agendas, explosive chemistry and tons of emotion, make for a wild ride anytime Ms. Black is running the show.
More Than Tempt You is the fifth book in the More Than Words series by Shayla Black. This is Bethany Banks’ story. We know a little about her from the previous books. However, More Than Tempt You gives us the rest of the story. Each book in the series stands alone but let me warn you. As soon as you finish one book in the series, you will need more.
Beth is the illegitimate daughter of the infamous, unethical, evil, father of the characters of the series, Barclay Reed. Bethany spent her life doing everything she could to get her father’s approval. As a result, many people believe that she was in cahoots with him when he stole millions from his clients. One of the people who want revenge on Beth is Clint Holmes. He watched his father die of a heart attack after finding out he lost his life’s savings when Barclay Reed was arrested. Bethany was his father’s financial advisor. It is a disaster in the making.
Bethany is strong, independent, and a superstar in the financial field. Her entire focus is proving herself to her father. She had a rough life even though her father gave her a good education, a great career opportunity, he never gave her a father’s love. She wants to please him. Some of the things her father asks her to do over the years crush her. The only good thing that came out of this scandal is that she is getting to know her siblings.
I love the hero, Clint. Clint is mourning the loss of his father. He is worried about his brothers and how they are reacting to their father’s death. At heart, he is a good man and a kind soul. It is against his nature to deliberately hurt someone. His actions aren’t sitting right. Clint knows he has to come clean to Bethany, but he needs to be loyal to his family. Clint didn’t expect the sweet and loving girl filled with pain. He is confused about his mission now that they’ve met. We all know what happens when a relationship is built on revenge, lies, and secrets.
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More Than Tempt You is tied with More Than Love You for my series favorite. I guess I love the female Reeds a smidgen more than the male Reeds…although they are all wonderful. What I love most about this book and the series, in general, is how real and believable the characters are. I can see myself being in their life (even though I’m not enormously rich and beautiful). The Hawaiian setting is like Calgon—it takes me away to a wonderfully relaxing place.
I am a huge fan of family series. Each book features a member of the Reed clan and highlights what pain they suffered from the senior Reeds as parents. On the outside, they look like they have it all. Internally they each have a bumpy road to happiness. I’m sure you will love Bethany and Clint and their way to happiness.
More Than Tempt You is the fifth book in the More Than Words series and it is another great addition! If you haven’t read the other books, now worries, they can all be read as a standalone. If you have read the others then you know the treat you are in for. I really loved these characters and their story, it was unfortunately very real and heartfelt. I will definitely be recommending this book to my friends!
In this book we get Beth’s story…her’s is not any better than her families stories and I actually think she had it the toughest. She has been betrayed in the worst ways by those closest to her and so she escapes to Maui, where she has hopes it will get better.
Clint has recently been dear another fatal blows in what seems like a string of them. This time he knows who to go after and heads to Maui yo do just that.
Both Clint and Beth have plans in place to move forward with their lives but neither expected the other. Will one more betrayal be enough to break them completely??
More Than Tempt You is the fifth book in the More Than Words series and it is another great addition! If you haven’t read the other books, now worries, they can all be read as a standalone. If you have read the others then you know the treat you are in for. I really loved these characters and their story, it was unfortunately very real and heartfelt. I will definitely be recommending this book to my friends!
In this book we get Beth’s story…her’s is not any better than her families stories and I actually think she had it the toughest. She has been betrayed in the worst ways by those closest to her and so she escapes to Maui, where she has hopes it will get better.
Clint has recently been dear another fatal blows in what seems like a string of them. This time he knows who to go after and heads to Maui yo do just that.
Both Clint and Beth have plans in place to move forward with their lives but neither expected the other. Will one more betrayal be enough to break them completely??
More Than Tempt You (More Than Words #5) by Shayla Black…. I enjoyed this 5th book in the MORE THAN WORDS series. Thanks to the publisher for allowing me to preview it. Clint Holmes(after news his life savings have been stolen his dad drops dead in front of him) and Bethany..Beth(worked with her father(she is his illegitimate. and may or may not have helped him steal from their investors). This story has all the feels, the tears, laughter, suspense, suspicion, deceit and steamy sex all leading to a very HEA.
What happens when you think the one person who ruined your whole life, your family, has their own secrets and is truly not the person you thought you knew?
“…you aren’t your past. You are your heart.”
Parts of More Than Tempt You, book five of the More Than Words series tore my heart in two. But other times my heart swooned with the amount of sweetness that Shayla elicited from Clint Holmes.
One thought to keep in mind before venturing back to the tempting islands is, perception is… just that! Everyone wears an outercoat, hiding the inner truths, even to themselves.
Excellent writing, characters and romance as always from the talented Shayla Black.
When you are left with nothing but hatred and more questions than answers you sometimes come up with a plan that may or may not work. Clint needed to find Bethany in order to get the answers to his family’s money problems, but his plan for revenge suddenly does not seem all that important when he finds himself falling for his nemesis. With a beautifully written story Shayla Black has done it again. She creates characters her readers cannot help but fall in love with while her storyline locks you in from the opening pages. This was the best book of the series.
This is a story showing how retribution can backfire.
According to Clint the answers begin and end with Bethany.
Can he prove her guilt, without feelings becoming involved?
Can Bethany clear her name? Just what is she hiding?
Each page brings you closer to the heartbreak you know will follow. Every word making you wonder if love will provail.
Along with Clint and Bethany you catch up with former characters from the Tempt You series.
Well worth the read.
Barclay Reed can honestly be classified as the biggest jerk in the world. He has been arrested and charged with putting together a very elaborate Ponzi scheme which has bilked the clients of his investment firm out of millions of dollars. His daughter, Bethany Banks, worked for him at the investment firm and even though the FBI isn’t charging her with any crimes Clint Holmes decides to find out for himelf if she is guilty. After all his family lost more than money – Clint and his two brothers lost their dad. The news of the loss of the millions he had invested was too much of a shock for him and Clint couldn’t save him when his heart gave out. Clint discovers Bethany has fled to Hawaii and he decides to follow to get some answers. He wasn’t planning to fall in love.
More Than Tempt You by Shayla Back is the fifth book in her More Than Words Series. I loved this story! It was an emotional read with the meeting of two very strong, yet somewhat fragile characters in Bethany Banks and Clint Holmes. Having read the previous books in this series I understood the pain and disillusionment Bethany endured from her father. His treatment of her was dispicable. No surprise after reading how he treated his other children in previous books. It was great getting to see the siblings and their spouses from the previous stories. I absoluted loved the scene in the birthing room where they all gathered for the birth of Maxon’s and Keely’s baby girl. The dialogue was hilarious and the song playlist made me laugh out loud. Shayla Black has written a super sexy yet emotionally pleasing story and I highly recommend it!
The More Than Words series is Shayla Black at her best–and this book is absolutely my favorite of the series so far. The premise–healing through revenge–is a wrenching and time-honored one, given new life in this story–and then new layers when Clint Holmes has to pile on a fake identity to accomplish his goal. From the start, we already know this isn’t going to go well for the poor guy, who ends up falling hard for the woman he’s come to Maui to destroy. Beth Banks is working through a boatload of conflict of her own, and believes that life has finally given her a break in the form of the handsome, humble bartender for whom she’s fallen in love. As a reader, it was riveting for me to be rooting for Clint one second but wanting to deck him the next. Black has woven some gorgeous ironies into the overall themes of this plot. Beth has come to an island because she perceives herself as one, only to reconnect to the world through a love she never expected. And the bigger gut punch: that Clint has to catch a liar by perpetuating a lie himself, risking the honesty and truth of a love he never expected either. There’s so much to dig into here, meaning this is a read for those of us who want some deep human truths layered into our romance–and proving exactly why Shayla Black is one of the undisputed queens of the genre.