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Second Chance #1

Second Chance Contract

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From Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling Author M. Robinson comes a best friend’s baby sister, second chance billionaire romance.

She was my best friends little sister which meant she was off limits, but I couldn’t help myself. I never could when it came to her and in the end, I just left town and made something of my myself.
Ten years later and I was one of the richest men in the world. I had everything I ever wanted except for her. Little did I know, life would give me a second chance to make things right by her.
She was suddenly my publicist, treating me as if I was nothing more than another client when I stole all her firsts.
Including her heart.
I needed to take matters into my own hands, making her an offer she couldn’t refuse.

For the next time days, she signed a contract stating…

She was mine.

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 24, 2021

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About the author

M. Robinson

63 books6,368 followers
M. Robinson is the Wall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling Author crowned as the “Queen of Angst” by readers around the world. Dive into her visionary world that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and leave you wanting more. She writes everything from contemporary to suspense romance and is best known for her novel, El Diablo.

When M isn’t in the cave writing her next epic love story, you will find her shopping and living on a boat in Florida with her real life pirate, her lobster, her husband Bossman. Sipping on Starbucks and hanging out with their two dogs, a German shepherd mix and a gordito Wheaten Terrier reading a good book. Or spending time with her family, who she is extremely close with.

Above all, M loves her readers more than anything and loves to connect with them! She is on all social media platforms @authormrobinson but you will find her in her happy place the most. Her VIP Reader Group on Facebook or her second favorite happy place, Instagram.

Stay connected!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 934 reviews
Profile Image for CHAMPAGNE.
302 reviews182 followers
October 17, 2022
with a title that sounds like a weird trend from tiktok, you should already know what to expect.

a second chance romance never felt more sickeningly insta love. and i did not like it, not in the fucking least.

*full of spoilers so...*


This book is just tiktok's cringe turned up to the max with more details. For god sake, this book was trying so hard to be angsty that it ended up looking like Keeland and Ward's romcoms love child but butchered. Like seriously damaged.

This book was aiming for the angsty vibe, only to be shoved off by the romcom vibe. To then be bombarded with multiple tropes ranging from, brother's best friend, to enemies to lovers, to office romance, to second chance romance, to secret baby. Just pick a few tropes and stick with it, my god!

I mean, this author cannot tell me that after three days of reconnecting (after being estranged for 10 years, no contact whatsoever)— where they did nothing but fight, and do their weird forced cute banter or whatthefuckever that the hero says he loves her and the heroine is starting to fall for it again. The chapter before that the hero was saying how much he didn't want her!! What the fuck mess is this?!

This story had ✨manipulation✨ done to a T. Her manipulating him, him manipulating her. Over and over.

If two immature teenagers were shoved into adult clothes, these characters would be it. My god, the constant temper tantrums were not hot. I live for smut, but sometimes even I cannot deal with sex in my books. This couple fucking? Yea, no, I’m gonna have to pass thank you very much.

I didn't even understand the hero's internal conflict. According to him, he didn't want to ruin his relationship with her family by sneaking behind their backs so he left her. And in the process of leaving her, he cut all ties with her family, ultimately, ending his relationship with them! WHAT KIND OF CONFLICT WAS THIS?! IT'S SO NONSENSICAL I KINDA WANNA PUNCH THE AUTHOR IN HER FACE! (i apologize for the violent thought

What's worse is that every character says “Now, we understand why you left the way you did. It makes so much sense.” IT. DOES. NOT!

And this so-called internal conflict happened with the heroine as well. When she purposely got pregnant with his child, oh, didn't I tell you that already? She got off the pills without his knowledge to give him his dream family. Only to end up not telling him about his fucking daughter for nine years! AGAIN, WHAT THE FUCK?!

To summarize this couple was middle school kids trying so hard to make this dysfunctional relationship work. Two adult idiots who does not deserve to be in a relationship because their “problems” can be solved by talking. And that's something they never do, instead they're constantly yelling at each other which screams ✨healthy✨. Yay.

It was also so frustrating to see him get so worked up about her hiding their child. You said you didn't want her, what's she supposed to do?! Now I get it, it was wrong for her to hide the fact that she had his kid. But damn, if the hero, even took a little bit of time taking his head out of his ass, he'd realize how hard it was for the heroine to make a living for herself all while juggling being single mom. Which is no easy feat, I tell ya. But to see the hero being so fucking out of touch with reality? The fuck is wrong wit you, man?!

You are not an Alpha anything. You're a misogynistic piece of shit who repeatedly shamed the woman to ease you inflated ego and remind yourself how good you are more than everyone. you're a big clown and an even bigger coward. That is not Alpha.

It was also annoying how the heroine throws the same exact argument everytime they got into it. “You left me” “You took my virginity” “You left me” “You're an asshole” “You left me” Stop. We get it.

This review is full of spoilers so here's another, which is also an enraging one: they get engaged after two months of being back in each others life. Two months after not seeing each other for ten years and a month after the hero learned about his kid. Two months of screaming and manipulation. TWO MONTHS.

This book was just dialogues. No contemplation, no monologue. It was like reading a soap opera script which is why I felt absolutely nothing for this couple. I like kids in books but the author throwing in a kid on this one, was an absolutely shit idea.

It was not cute, the relationship development was forced to move forward because of a secret baby. And it was obvious how forced and unorganic everything was.

One star. I fucking hate this book. I hate this author who's constantly dancing on my bookstagram page and I hate myself so much for wanting to pick up the next installment of this series and another book by this author, that I sooo want to throw myself off a cliff.

So yea, that's my rant review. Have a good day 🙂
Profile Image for Darlene I read WAY to many books.
3,369 reviews1,857 followers
Read
October 16, 2021
DNF


Nope I couldn't stand this Hero hoe.. how can someone be so "in love" with someone and act like that?? All because your her brothers best friend.. i hate how many Heros get so scared of the brother.. and turn into a manwhore..
And the h was over the top desperate... I cant.. I don't have time to read more about how he fks other woman to forget her.. (read the other reviews) and also skimmed.. also the nickname Kid.. when a guy calls the love of his life that nickname eww

Ow drama, drama

Recommend-nope
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Crystal (Crystalreads2) .
883 reviews825 followers
October 18, 2021
I can’t believe it took me this long to read a book By this Author; Alpha CEO is the chef’s kiss. This book was exactly what I needed. M.Robinson is the Queen of angst.

Autumn has loved Julian since they were kids. Julian is Autumn's brother's best friend and makes Autumn off-limits. Julian broke her heart and took off. Ten years later, they reunited. His company hired her as his publicist to give him a warmer image. To say he was shocked is an understatement; however, Mr. Alpha Ceo doesn't show it. He is now determined to have Autumn back in his life. They’re both in for a ride of a lifetime since neither one of them is who they were ten years ago.

Let me tell you, I laughed at some of the things Julian did. He infuriates her. I was waiting for Autumn to kick him where it hurts. But our girl doesn’t take it lying down; they both gave as much as they got.

I love the authors writing style and how she went from past to present to tell their back story. I felt every single emotion. I definitely ugly cried a time or two. But so worth it. Let's not forget the spice and sexual tension between the two. Alpha Ceo is a must-read and will not be my last book from this author.
Profile Image for Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf).
436 reviews237 followers
November 13, 2021
"I was toxic for her—she was poison for me."
I'm finding it hard to write about this book. Make no mistake: these two, Julian and Autumn, are really toxic together. But, somehow, I couldn't stop myself from reading and wanting more and more. Because they're also perfect for each other and I don't think anyone else would do.

"His eyes were my mood ring."
It's easy to dismiss Christian as just an asshole who cares about nothing and no one, but deep down, he's more. He's been shaped by his past, his childhood, and being left by his parents. I don't think he knows how to deal with most things, so now that he's the Alpha CEO he can just throw money at stuff and make it go away. Apparently, not all of it, though.

"But it’s your laugh, your smile, your heart, the way you can see through my bullshit—it’s what really takes ahold of me."
I had a harder time with Autumn. She sort of gave me whiplash sometimes. She wants him, she loves him, she hates him, she wants to kill him. However, I also get her: it's hard to distance yourself from someone who's been part of you your whole life, someone who's hurt you but who made you feel things no one else did. And I do think she both loves and hates him with everything she's got.

"Getting your heart broken for the first time was like having the wind knocked out of you by the force of a level five hurricane."
This is a best friend's sister book, so Autumn was in love with Julian, who was older than her and saw her as just a kid. Only he didn't, but he wouldn't act on it – due to her brother and their family having taken him in, and a misguided sense of loyalty.
Until he did. I'm a huge fan of flashbacks, and I was happy to get them in this book, instead of just telling it all at once.

"I’ve tasted you, kid. From your mouth, to your pussy, to every inch of your body. I stole your first kiss, your first orgasm, your first fuck—there’s no coming back from that, Autumn."
I loved how he took all of her firsts. He was loving and caring to her, and definitely protective, but also hard and cruel at times. The dichotomy between loving Julian and mean Julian was probably the most interesting thing for me. It led to some pretty good tension between them.

“You want the man I was ten years ago, and he’s not here anymore, Autumn. He died the day I left you.”
Julian leaves. He breaks her heart in order to leave her behind, because he thinks he has to. I hated him for it, but I also understood him. It would be easier for her if she hated him than if she were to remain in love with him, stuck to something that could never be.
Ten years later, he's an arrogant, cocky billionaire, and she's a publicist who gets tasked with working with him. Another woman (myself included) would run away from it, because it would be too much. She doesn't. She's not a little girl anymore. There's a war inside her, and her heart (and body) and her brain are on opposites sides of it.

"I became that man because I’d left my heart and soul with you."
Their love borderlines (or is) obsession. Years later, they're still hung up on each other, and it's like nothing changed. You see the things he remembers about her, the moments, the conversations, and how much he wants to be forgiven for leaving. How much he wants to turn back time. How much he wants her. But you also see how much he hurt her in the process, and no one would blame her if she chose to walk away and leave him behind, because karma.

"I’m standing in front of you, hoping that you’ll stand with me."
Even if it was twisted AF sometimes, angsty, and tense between them, I loved how deeply they love each other. They would fucking blow up the world to be together.
Is this sick? Probably.
Was this enjoyable? I'd say so.
Would I forgive him? Probably not.
But would I like someone to want me as badly as Julian? Yes. I definitely would.
Profile Image for FictionalDen.
256 reviews244 followers
September 7, 2021
2.25 Stars

The only reason I was able to finish this book was because of Autumn h



SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS




Plot

PAST

Autumn had always been in love with her brothers best friend Julian (don’t ask me why because I honestly don’t know what she saw in that hoe). She tried everything to get his attention, but he was always sucking off another woman’s face.

When Autumn was 17, she tried something different, got a man to make Julian jealous and obviously it did work because acting like a slut is the best way to get a hoe mans attention.

“I’m the man she’s trying to make jealous, that’s who the fuck I am. You’re lucky it was me who found her out here with you drinking, dancing like a slut, and not her brother, or you wouldn’t be standing.”

Yes, he finally gave in and kissed her but then returned back to his hoe life.

I wanted to ask Christian so many things. The pain of hearing Julian had been with not one, but two women since he’d kissed me was an agony I wasn’t expecting. And now, he was bringing a date to my birthday party.

I’d spent the last two weeks trying to fuck her out of my mind. From one random girl to the next. It was no use. I couldn’t stop thinking about the way her mouth moved with mine.


Don’t worry, after this Autumn still lets him kiss her, even though he was sucking another woman’s face not even a few minutes ago.

description

Now come on! Let’s not blame Julian for his hoe ways, he was trying to forget about his feelings for Autumn because he felt like he didn’t deserve her love. But most importantly didn’t want to betray his best friend and Autumns parents since they were the only family he had ever known.

Anyway then nothing happens between them until Autumn is 18 or 19 🤔. So Julian is upset because he see’s his mother with her new family, gets drunk, finds Autumn and takes her virginity. Then they exclusively fuck with Autumn throwing in “I love you” again and again and not hearing it back from Julian. Until he lies and tells her he fucked someone else and leaves town.

Now I didn’t really like past Autumn, she sounded completely pathetic and always crying and whining after Julian. I felt bad for her though as he would be giving her mixed signals and then going and hooking up with other girls. Like that sucked.

Julian, obviously he was a coward for not fighting for Autumn and then leaving her just like that. Again I understood where he was coming from but still. He was a coward and just not respectful towards Autumns feelings for him. I know he did all of this to push her away but he could clearly see how much it was hurting her so he could at least try to tame it down a little?

*Note: the past didn’t really bother me because I felt like it was the needed angst built up for the present reunion. However I did reduce a star because I wish I could have read the moment Julian realized that he loved Autumn and a much better understanding as to WHY both Julian and Autumn fell for each other, not just them telling me that they loved the other, I wanted to read that journey you know?*

PRESENT
10 years later, Autumn is a big shot publicist and is hired by Julians company to fix his image, make him more approachable and a family man since his company will be going public soon.

That’s when Julian and Autumn reunite again and Julian decides that he won’t let her get away this time.

”Up until last week, I hadn’t seen her since I’d left. Over ten fucking years I stayed away from her for you and your parents and I won’t do that again. I can’t.”

Now present Julian AKA Alpha CEO one word to describe him at first, pig. I dreaded reading his present time POV because it was just disgusting. The only thing he thought about was sex. He didn’t sound like a man in love with Autumn, but a hormonal student lusting after his hot teacher.

“It’s not breaking and entering when you own the whole damn building. As far as satisfying your needs, we both know how many times I can make you come without trying. This pretentious, arrogant asshole gave you your first orgasm, and that was just with my mouth sucking your greedy little clit. Would you like me to elaborate on how many times I made you come with my fingers, tongue, and cock, Miss Troy?”

I sensually started rubbing my thumb over my mouth. Obviously, she was uncomfortable, squirming as my eyes wandered over her body. I didn’t give a fuck. I wanted to look at her, so I did.

My heady gaze trailed down her neck toward her tits, which were on full display, just waiting to be freed from her tight fucking dress, right down to her narrow, tiny waist. I immediately envisioned all the times I’d gripped onto her hips, guiding her down my cock, or when I fucked her from behind.


description

Also let’s not forget him calling Autumn a bitch because she was holding her own against him and not acknowledging their past.

I resisted the urge to call her out on her bitch attitude, knowing it wouldn’t get me anywhere other than proving my point and pissing her off further. Although the desire was there, I firmly nodded to the chair again instead.

description

Like I mentioned above the only reason I was able to continue and not DNF half way through was because of Autumn, that woman was just spitting facts left and right and I was actually enjoying it.

“You were my brother’s best friend, and I was just a stupid kid who thought her life began and ended with you. I don’t hate you, Julian. At least not anymore. The truth is… I feel absolutely nothing for you.”

“How is your father?” “I’m not here to discuss my family with you. If you want to know about them, their phone numbers haven’t changed.”

“You can’t do this to me. Ten years, Julian! Ten! I waited for you to come back and apologize. What do you want from me? I can’t forget about what you did to me. I can’t just let it go like you expect me to. It’s so fucking easy for you. I didn’t leave you. I didn’t fuck you over. I did nothing but love you. I’m trying to remain calm and be professional with you, but you’re making it really damn hard to not hate you.”


Now you see the love sick teenage Autumn was long gone and a reasonable woman was in her place, which made the book bearable. I honestly thought they would be doing the deed ASAP but surprisingly they didn’t, not until the end of the book. Obviously a few kisses and touching here and there but that was it.

I wish the first half of the book didn’t have any chapters from Julians POV because then I would have actually liked him. Like I said before he sounded like someone is lust, not in love but then slowly as the book progressed he started throwing in some strong punches. More specifically when he realised he was a father. That plot twist I was literally SCREAMING because I didn’t see it coming. Miss Autumn hid their 9 year old daughter from him. I was happy at first

”If you would have told me you were pregnant, I never would have left you, and you know it.”
“When was I supposed to tell you?” she scoffed out in disgust. “Before or after you told me you screwed someone else at Christian’s bachelor party? Or would you have rather I waited until after you told me I was nothing more than a fuck to you? Please tell me when I should have told you I was expecting your baby? Because I just don’t know.”


but then felt bad when Julian cried

“My life hasn’t been easy. My parents didn’t want me, and I always promised myself I would never be like them. I would never abandon my children, and yet here I am, hoping that one day you won’t hate me for missing so much of your little life. The things I’ve seen, the stuff I’ve endured, I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. I can’t help thinking that maybe I’m being punished for something because why would your mother not tell me about you? Why would she do this to me? Knowing how I grew up?” More tears slid down the sides of my face, and I felt as if I was breaking down, shattering in my baby girl’s bed with her in my arms and her mother in my heart.

The second half of the book, I liked it minus the daughter she was annoying 😂

She giggled, sounding so much like her mother at that age. “Momma says she’s been with you all week! She said you wanted to meet me, and I’ve always wanted to meet you too. But Momma says you didn’t know about me, and I don’t know why she didn’t tell you, but she says it doesn’t matter. Will you tell me? You don’t have to tell me now! I’m so happy to finally meet you! My name is Capri Marie Troy and I’m a super cool girl. I have a lot of friends at school and I’m really smart. All my classes are advanced. My best subject is math! I love numbers. Did you know that?”

“Daddy,” Capri said for the first time, instantly tearing my attention to her. “When do we leave?” She must have misinterpreted the expression on my face. “Oh, I mean… is that okay? Can I call you my daddy?” Looking up at me, she waited for an answer with nothing but love in her eyes.


Like hello child, you just met the man a second ago. Calm down. Idk I found it weird with how quickly she just opened up to him.

description

Moving on, the second half Julian actually attempted to grovel and also had cute comebacks

“I don’t know what to say. I barely know what to think when it comes to you.”
“I’m coming for you. And it’s going to make this last week look like child’s play child’s play compared to what I have planned for us this month.”

“I love you,” he expressed all in one breath. “I’ve always fucking loved you, Autumn.”

“And now I have a family to enjoy it with.” “Julian, I’m not your family.” “You’ve always been my home.”


Also if you are wondering why Julian didn’t approach her the past 10 years

“Because old habits die hard. I broke your heart and didn’t know where to begin to piece it back together. Each year, I told myself this would be the year I’d come for you. Then the following would come around, and history repeated itself. I just didn’t know where to start with you anymore.”

*cough*coward Julian*cough*

Also if you are wondering if he was celibate while also thinking about going back to Autumn

“No woman has ever been in my bed.” I rolled my eyes.
“Is this where you tell me you haven’t had sex since me?”
“No. I’m a man, Autumn, I fuck.” Hearing him say those words didn’t surprise me, but the next ones he openly shared were staggering, nearly stopping my heart, leaving me awestruck and blindsided when he confessed…
“I’ve never made love to anyone but you.”  


*cough*once a hoe always a?*cough*
Profile Image for M.
649 reviews267 followers
August 31, 2021
Holy cow, I thought my sweet little heart was going to combust with all the angst that was in this book. Golly, was it good. Deliciously so. This book was pure fire. The queen of angst DELIVERED!

Autumn has loved Julian since before she really even knew what that word meant. With him being her brother's best friend there was an automatic no go when it came to anything more than friendship. He was a huge part of her family, almost like another son. As the years go on, feelings become more heated and things are taken further. One kiss in the woods wasn't enough for either of them. More and more was given, but so much was taken at the same time.

Julian shares something with her that ends what little relationship they had. He leaves town without so much as a goodbye to her brother or parents. Just vanished. Fast forward 10 years and they are brought back into each other's life. Feelings once gone and buried are stirring to life once again.

The sexual tension was so thick in this one. It felt alive and breathing, it was that good.
Julian and Autumn were damn near perfect. I devoured this book and couldn't get enough.
He was s*x on a stick. My, oh my. He was possessive, a true alpha through and through. She gave just as good as him though. She didn't cower and questioned him at every step.

This book is why she is a one click author for me. Can't wait until book two in this new series! Christian has big shoes to fill.

*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Profile Image for Lisa (Remarkablylisa).
2,372 reviews1,831 followers
October 31, 2021
Wow. He's a big asshole and I could not stand him. Also everything in this book was soooo dramatic. Just yelling at each other in every scene and HR violations.
Profile Image for Sabrina.
3,637 reviews2,298 followers
January 7, 2022
I don't know if I became a bigger bitch in 2022 or what but I am just not having much luck with my books and this one was just one more that left me feeling unsatisfied. Autumn and Julian had me so frustrated it wasn't even funny. I'm all for the back-and-forth of an enemies to lovers story and the angst can be so good. But these characters didn't have much angst for me it was all just Julian being an asshole and thinking Autumn couldn't possibly pass up a chance to ride his dick again.

There was pretty much zero back-and-forth from them, instead it was Julian not listening to Autumn and her feelings. Every time they argued it was Autumn yelling about something and Julian just saying that he bets she was wet for him. It got annoying and frustrating to the point I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room. Even with Autumn because she gave in to Julian instead of sticking to her anger until he got the point. Again, I love the alpha cockiness but it was just too much in this book. It made it so hard to see a connection between them when there was zero actual communication.

Profile Image for Mahima.
468 reviews121 followers
October 2, 2021
*** 2.75 stars ***

1 star for Autumn, 1 for the past scenes and .75 for me as I READ this thing!!

Alright so let's start with the
▪️ Characters: Hero is one hell of a jerk. He keeps on pushing heroine away all the while giving mixed signals to her. And after 10 years, he's all of a sudden sooo keen on keeping her, marrying her and spending the life with her🙄. See, he literally wasted the first 30 years of both of their lives. Such a disappointment.

Autumn is a helpless romantic. She's been in love with Julian since she was 6. I didn't really have a problem with her. She seems sane and quite a normal person contrary to the hero who doesn't give any sh** about anyone's emotions. He just gives the verdict and dare anyone deny him😑. Doesn't matter if whatever he says is right or not, you want it or not, nope, you HAVE to do it!! It's that simple.
1 star for the heroine.

▪️ Writing style: Really?? 1star for the writing. I'm not a fan of this author and have known since too long that he/she writes like an amateur. The story was all over the place. Along with being too fast.

Story telling: Trashy, simply trashy.
Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
2,854 reviews12 followers
August 26, 2021
Alpha CEO - should be called Arsehole CEO.

I know I am going to be in the minority here, but this book and I did not gel patricularly well at all.

I am all for an alphahole in my stories, but they have to have something redeeming, and that is something that Julian really didn't have for me.

He was a dick the first time we meet him, and a dick to the last page.

He was a bully and I kept on waiting for him to change, to lose the hardness and show some kindness, and when he starts to show a little, his a-holeyness comes right back.

I kept wanting Autumn to figuratively - and literally -knee him in the balls, but she kept falling for it all and I kept rolling my eyes at her.

There was one character that I couldn't fault, but you will have to wait and read to find out who that one might be.

I won't lie, I disliked Julian so much that I nearly gave up on this book on more than one occasion, but I haven't DNF's a M.Rob book yet and I didn't want to with this one.

There were some great things within this story, but for me they were overshadowed by my intense dislike for our main man, and that was something I just couldn't overcome.

These things probably won't bother other readers, however they really did me. I spent half my time reading it complaining to a friend how horrible he was, so that probably wasn't a good sign lol

I am sure many many others will really enjoy it and fall in love with Julian, but this one really wasn't for me


a> Email Smokin Hot Book Blog
Profile Image for Rohina .
594 reviews135 followers
August 29, 2021
Alpha CEO? More like Asshole CEO.

After checking out some of the reviews, I can say this with a hundred percent confidence that I am in the minority. With a blurb like that, I had such high hopes, but this book was such a letdown.

I love alpha males. I love how they unapologetically go for what they want and even the worst of the alpha-holes have a redeeming quality. Julian, on the other hand, I just didn't have the patience for him and his over the top controlling attitude.

One thing all alpha male characters have in common is that they are always, always soft for their love interests. Yes, they are demanding, controlling, irrational and over the top, but they know where to draw the line and give.

Julian was an asshole from Chapter One and he stayed an asshole until the end. I was waiting for him to show some modicum of sympathy and be apologetic for his past actions, but his holiness always ruined it by just being the opposite.

Autumn, our female lead... I wanted to wrangle her neck. I was waiting for her to just knee Julian in the balls, but she was a disappointment as well. I get that she has loved him for years, but she was shit at putting her feet down. The man treated her like the dirt beneath his shoes, but damn, he's hot, right?


Alpha CEO was a quick read. I finished it in a couple of hours, but I wish I could say I enjoyed it as much as I was hoping to. Does this book have good parts? Definitely, but when the parts you don't like start piling up in stacks, it is hard to focus on the parts you enjoyed.


I know that readers have enjoyed this book and I know many more will, but this just wasn't for me.




1.5 Stars!

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*ARC gifted by the author via Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Salma.
374 reviews5,803 followers
October 31, 2021
3.75⭐️ 3🌶

This was a beautiful second-chance romance with twist that I did not expect and he's her brother's best-friend. It was well-paced and definitely a read that could get you out of a reading slump. I really enjoyed the character's banter and I just wanted to have more of them.

M Robinson is a first-time for me and I definitely will be picking more of her books.

ARC was kindly provided to me by the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Melissa  ❤️ bookaddict_fanatic .
999 reviews89 followers
August 31, 2021
Oh my word the "Queen of Angst" is back with a story that is enthralling, consuming and so damn swoon-worthy but don't forget the mind-blowing twists and turns that will leave you reeling.

“You know what I want. It’s what I’ve always wanted. It hasn’t changed, it never changes. You know it as much as I do. All I’ve ever wanted is you.”

Julian and Autumn's story is told through past and present so you get insight on the backstory of their relationship which let's you see how it all unfolds. This book had it all....witty banter, angst, swoony moments and damn, the sexy chemistry will have you burning up!! I loved that Julian wanted to right his wrong and was willing to do whatever it took, as well as, Autumn not falling at his feet she made him work for all her attention!!

“If I could go back, I wouldn’t change a damn thing. I made something of myself. I wasn’t the man you needed then, but I am now.”

If you love an alphahole, enemies to lovers, bestfriends little sister, second chance romance then definitely grab this book!
Profile Image for Sentranced Jem.
1,134 reviews602 followers
December 28, 2021
I have LOVED so many books by M. Robinson and I had high expectations about this book. Plus, this trope is a guilty pleasure of mine but unfortunately, Alpha CEO just didn't do it for me. I found myself skipping through the pages....sorry!
Profile Image for The Romantic Bosnian.
1,227 reviews329 followers
January 29, 2022
project_20210714_1940242-01
This is one of 5 EVER since I have been reading books for over a decade that I have put SPOILERS in my review because otherwise I can not explain my reasoning. This just was not for me, DNF. My full review & explanation is on my BLOG -> CLICK HERE
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
1,971 reviews149 followers
August 26, 2021
Julian and Autumn's story was a beautiful second chance romance filled with love and lust, but also angst, lies, and trust issues.
Julian is a young man who is moved around from foster home to group home. He funds a safe have with Christian and Autumn's family thankfully. Autumn is younger than Julian but has a very serious crush on him, as most young girls do.
This story spans over years and was so breathtaking at times and heartbreaking at other times that I felt immersed in this story from page one, unable to look away.
This is a must read!
October 7, 2021
3.5 ⭐'s

M. Robinson's books seem to be falling into a pattern of hit or miss for me. I'm drawn to the angst but some of the stories are not my cup of tea and this is one of them.

The main issue I have is that Julian is WAY too aggressive and it was a major turn off. When they were younger, he was a bit sweeter but he's a major jerk in the present and it never lets up.

Autumn held her own for the most part and then the twist happens. And I get it, she has to be softer...it just seems it was used against her.

The title changes are a bit confusing. Autumn's brother's book is supposed to be next. I'm guessing it's Second Chance Vow. I was really intrigued by him and Kinley. It's coming out November 5, 2021.
Profile Image for crazyyummy.
525 reviews
August 26, 2021
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Let me start my review by saying that this is probably one of my top favourite books by M. Robinson. This book hits differently than most of the books that I've read from her. The way she delivers mutual pining & second chance trope is just *chef kiss*. Like seriously, Alpha Ceo really got me hooked from the beginning till the end. It was such an enjoyable read that I was able to finish everything in one day.

Talking about the characters, Julian is probably one of the sexiest men by Monica. Believe me, this guy's sexiness is just a whole new level. I couldn't stop simping over him throughout the entire book. He is just everything and more. Whereas for Autumn, I adore her sassiness and strong personality, including the way she knows how to carry herself. When you finally read this book, you can truly feel the chemistry and connection between Julian and Autumn. Despite the conflict that they are facing, they still couldn't stop but feel attracted to one another. Lord, I can't even describe the sexual tensions in this book 🔥

Overall, this book has won over my heart and I think Monica has done a great job in delivering the story of Autumn and Julian. Everything about this book is angsty, steamy, entertaining, and so much more. The only reason why I didn't give this book a five star is because I felt like the push and pull relationship is a little bit draggy. However, it didn't ruin my enjoyment. Therefore, I highly recommend everyone to try this book cause you definitely don't want to miss this.
Profile Image for Michele McMullen .
2,351 reviews78 followers
September 1, 2021
I hope you are ready for Julian and Autumn! Love, Lust, Secrets Surprises and of course a nice dose of Angst are all in store for this couple.
He was my first everything, I thought he was my future but he walked away leaving me more than broken. Now it is ten years later and I am a sought after image public relations guru. Wanted by the best and now his people want me. I am stronger now and have the backbone, sass and intelligence to take any man or woman on in this field. I can take him on as a client and make it no feelings, strings or attachments. I can also keep my private life just that private, I have to do that to protect my heart and others.
I loved cars and her but I knew that I wasn't good enough for one of them. Her brother was my best friend but I burned that bridge when I/we crossed the line. Now ten years later I have built an empire set for a king and that king is me. Now with my company on the cusp of going public and global my image needs tweaking according to my people. The moment I walk in to room and see her I know that I will get both things that I wanted. I have the automotive empire and now I will have Autumn. This King is about to capture his Queen.
This couple has fabulous banter that is filled with sarcasm, heat and so many feelings. Get ready to take a wild emotional ride filled with sexual tension, so many feelings and this alpha is about to become a swoon worthy man to close the deal of a lifetime.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Profile Image for sunny.
499 reviews22 followers
April 13, 2022
1.5

if you enjoy a book where the hero is an absolute asshole who does absolutely NOTHING then this book is for you

zero groveling, all he does is yell at her, all she does is take his shit. you’re telling me that the climax of the book is her FINALLY leaving him but then letting him come back only because her brother says he was shitfaced drink at a bar…. SNOOZE

this man is a garbage human being and doesn’t deserve the heroine nor their daughter


ALSO the heroine admits that she purposefully stopped taking her birth control so that she could get pregnant so he wouldn’t leave her??? 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
Profile Image for Giorgia Reads.
1,321 reviews2,048 followers
August 4, 2022


Absurd plot
Absurd conflict & motivations for the initial break up
Absurd out of the blue motivations for rekindling the once defunct relationship
Both lead characters were pretty awful people. Both selfish, entitled, egotistical and manipulative.

There is not one redeeming quality for this book.
Profile Image for Amy .
2,849 reviews
August 30, 2021
4.5, Give me all the angst, Stars!

“Our emotions were running wild, fighting a battle I knew I could never win.”

“Our memories became nightmare. My love that became hate. It. Ruined. Me. He ruined me.”

“I’m standing in front of you, hoping you’ll stand with me.”

Julian only ever loved two things, cars and Autumn. He took that passion and created an empire. Known as the ruthless alpha CEO, Julian has no choice but to soften his image before his company goes public. Julian could care less about his image, but when he sees who his company has hired to help him out, he’ll do anything to make her stay…..

Alpha CEO is a must-read angst filled romance. From the moment I picked up Autumn and Julian’s story I was hooked. I was completely, 100% addicted. This story took me on a roller-coaster ride of emotions and I never wanted it to end.

From the first encounter with our 2 main characters, you can just tell that their story is going to be epic. Julian was the love of Autumn’s life and she was most certain that he felt the same way until one day he broke her heart. It will be 10 years before these two are reunited and gone is the girl that Julian used to know. Autumn is harder and her walls are sky high. And while on the outside, Julian lives up to the name of ‘Alpha CEO’, there is more to this man than meets the eye. Once you understand his reasoning for breaking Autumn’s heart, you understand that hurting her is his biggest mistake. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for the woman he loves and now that fate has put them on the same path, he’ll do anything to win her back…

The road to happily ever after was definitely not an easy one for this. Their journey is filled with lots of ups and down, so much push and pull, and one heck of a twist. So many frustrating moments where I just wanted to shake Autumn and Julian and make them figure things out. But, I got to tell you, their story is worth it. Their journey is worth each and every moment. In the end, all you can do is just sit back and enjoy this angst filled ride.

Alpha CEO exceed my expectations and took me on one unforgettable journey. The characters and their story captured my heart from the very first page and I never wanted their story to end. I loved every second of this story and can not wait to see what this author has in store for us next!

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for BookSmackedMel.
916 reviews371 followers
October 26, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this read by M Robinson, it's actually caught me off guard a bit.

I'll start this review off by saying I had no idea what this book was about. Clearly a second chance romance given the title but that's about as much as I knew.

The prologue had me instantly invested with this being a bit of a forbidden romance that ends badly.

Fast forward and the two main characters are reunited again in what I would say is a love/hate relationship. The banter, the sexual tension all was entertaining as hell and what you want in a romance. Well what I wanted anyway. Like a ping pong match back and forth the exchanges between these two had me at times talking to myself adding in my own commentary.

And then well then M Robinson hits me with the unexpected and this book becomes so dang emotional. Like HEAD EXPLODED What in the ever loving fudge are you serious right now type of unexpected. And I gotta say there were moments that completely pulled at my heart. Oohhhh boy.

Never a dull moment throughout this book, it didn't lag one bit and kept me completely invested until the very end.

Fantastic read. Looking forward to the next one.
4.5 stars
Profile Image for Serialbookstarter.
710 reviews40 followers
November 10, 2022
This could have been a 5 star but the angst fizzled. The Mcs grew up Together and started a secret relationship when the fmc was 17-18. There’s an age gap of about 10 years. He loves her but leaves her so hiss bff the fmcs brother doesn’t get mad at him. Btw hea a man HO— what else is new???? Year later she’s a successful Owner of a PR firm and he’s a billionaire alpha ceo who needs an image rehab as his company is going public. This throws them together again and sparks reignite the flames of love… then he finds out she’s hidden his daughter for 9 years. Yep she was pregnant when he left her and lived the life of a Man HO immediately thereafter… he has the gall to get mad at her and threaten to take custody because he ran away to Italy , ghosted her and her family which was basically his foster home, and deleted his phone and social media. Nevermind she was just 18 and he was a 28 yo grown ass man. Anyway they work it out and live hea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
7,107 reviews185 followers
October 27, 2022
ALPHA CEO aka SECOND CHANCE CONTRACT by M. Robinson is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, erotic, second chance romance story line focusing on publicist Autumn Troy, and billionaire businessman Julian Locke.

NOTE: The title of this book was changed after the initial release and my review reflects the original title.


Told from dual first person perspectives (Autumn and Julian) using present day and memories from the past, ALPHA CEO (SECOND CHANCE CONTRACT) follows the tempestuous second chance relationship between publicist Autumn Troy, and Billionaire businessman Julian Locke. All of her life Autumn Troy has been in love with her brother’s best friend Julian Locke but shortly after her eighteenth birthday, Julian, six years older than our story line heroine, broke her heart, destroying the Troy family in the process. Ten years would pass as the Troy family watched from afar as the young boy they raised grew into a hardened businessman, a businessman who was about to turn Autumn’s world upside down. Needing a publicist to fix his image, Julian’s team hired Autumn Troy, and in doing so, brought together a world of heart break and hurt. As Julian laid out his plans to reclaim Autumn as his own, our heroine struggled between head and heart, knowing to fall for Julian, means having her heart destroyed all over again. What ensues is the rebuilding but acrimonious relationship between Julian and Autumn, and the fall-out as secrets from the past come full circle, threatening to destroy Autumn, all over again.


Autumn Troy despises our hero with every cell in her body. Julian not only break Autumn’s heart, but destroyed her faith, her hope and a lifelong love when he pushed her away, without looking back. Autumn had loved Julian all of her life but when their relationship was taken to a whole new level, our couple had to keep their love a secret, from Autumn’s family, and her older brother Christian. Julian Locke grew up in the foster care system and never knew love until moving in with the Troy family but falling for Autumn meant quite possibly destroying the trust with not only her brother but her family as well. Unable to accept the inevitable, Julian ran before being pushed out of their lives.


The relationship between Julian and Autumn is one of second chances; a rekindling romance that struggles in the face of secrets, lies, heart break and pain. Julian has never stopped loving our story line heroine but his behavior has always run hot and cold, and his treatment of our heroine is questionable on many levels. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.


We are introduced to Autumn’s parents,as well as her brother Christian and his wife Kinley. Christian and Kinley’s story line is next in Dr. Alpha.


ALPHA CEO (SECOND CHANCE CONTRACT) is an emotional and heart breaking story line as Julian’s treatment of Autumn, once they reconnected, raised many red flags of questionable behavior. The premise is impassioned; the romance is intense; the characters are powerful, broken, energetic and strong. ALPHA CEO ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for artsandgrace *ೃ༄.
1,091 reviews14 followers
October 24, 2021
First of all, could he stop calling her KID? It’s just cringey and stupid and plain annoying. All that talk about her not being a “young girl” or “best friend’s sister” but you still calling her kid when she’s almost thirty?

Second of all, the hero was fucking annoying. And a complete pussy. Coward. 10 years later he’s still a fucking pussy. As soon as he knew he had a daughter, what did he do? Threaten the mother of his child! WOW AMAZING!!! And he was so freaking creepy. All that innuendo and dirty talk just to provoke her— you realise that if he’s not “hot”, “rich”, “alphahole” those things would be seen as creepy! Blegh.

And let’s be honest, the little girl was cringey too, like her father. Everything was moving so incredibly fast. She’s nine, and after living sans father her whole life, she just OMG DADDY ILY — it’s totally unreal.

God, I’m so angry. Pissed. The hero is not good. He doesn’t deserve shit. Doesn’t deserve Autumn. And it’s incredibly shitty of the author to twist the story on Autumn at the end, it’s very much unnecessary. He was stupid, he left because he was a pussy, and despite him not wanting to “lose her family”, he still LEFT THEM high and dry without as much as a goodbye? Fucking coward


Oh and what the hell are we supposed to be focusing on? Is it a boss-client romance? Or second chance romance? Or secret pregnancy trope? Or whatever the fuck that was? Ugh. Pick a trope and stick with it.

Not sure if I’ll be reading Christian’s book next
Profile Image for Katelynn.
774 reviews21 followers
August 24, 2021
This may be one of my favorite M Robinson books of all time! The Queen of Angst again delivers a tale of second chance and brothers best friend romance with Autumn and Julian. Autumn and Julian used to have a forbidden secret romance when Autumn was a teen but Julian broke her heart by leaving her at her brother's wedding. 10 years later she is hired on as his publicist right as his company announces it will go public. Years of regret and hurt live between these two and they are on different pages on the next steps for them. With a couple of twists along this way, this book pulled at my heartstrings and stole all my attention. Autumn was young and naive in the flashbacks but really grows into a strong woman in the present. Though stubborn, she's afraid of being hurt again and entering a relationship that destroyed her years ago. Julian is life! He's possessive and alpha to the core! He speaks his mind and holds nothing back making him one of my top book heroes of the year without a doubt. While he was scared of the consequences as a young man in the present he holds nothing back and loves Autumn fiercely and loudly. I'm so excited this is a series and can't wait to read more!
Profile Image for Erika Rodriguez.
16 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2021
Alpha CEO was such a great read. In typical M. Style, this romance book was filled with heartbreak, rollercoasters and of course, angst. Though, this is a romance story be prepared to cry, laugh, and fall in love with all the characters. This is honestly a page turner from beginning to end. I’m not exaggerating when i say that this book truly had me wanting to kill but also love Julian! But if you know M. Then you know her main characters are the most gorgeous douche bags you love to hate and hate to love. Enjoy the ride!
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,337 reviews57 followers
August 25, 2021
Such a great book! So much angst but oh so good! Autumn and Julian have both a heartbreaking and heartwarming story. You really could feel the love and struggle through the pages. The sexual tension between these two was off the charts. The banter between them was great as well! They had me both laughing and crying throughout this book.

If you are looking for a second chance romance, brothers best friend book filled with angst, betrayal, friendship, and love, then this is the book for you. So good!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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