Tuesday Reviews: Cold Hearted Casanova by L.J. Shen

 

From USA Today bestselling author L.J. Shen comes a witty romance about a woman desperate to marry into money…and her fake marriage to a (real) billionaire reluctant to commit even to a zip code.

Riggs Bates may be a billionaire, but he knows money can’t buy happiness. He keeps his financial status a secret and takes his women the same way he takes his meals—a different one three times a day. That’s until he’s caught sleeping with a married newswoman by none other than her ambitious assistant.

Daphne “Duffy” Markham wants two things in life: marry well and stay in the States. So when her almost-fiancé takes off to “find himself” and her work visa approaches expiration, Duffy resorts to the only thing she has left—blackmail. Luckily, Riggs needs an excuse to stay in New York as badly as she does, so their first meeting quickly leads to a begrudging engagement.

Armed with strict house rules and their mutual distaste for one another, Riggs and Duffy soon find there’s no denying the spark between them…or the fact that this fake marriage is starting to feel a little too real.

"Cold Hearted Casanova" is a delightful blend of grumpy sunshine, fake marriage, and age-gap romance that captures the essence of unexpected love. The story follows Daphne (Duffy) Markham, a woman whose past struggles with bullying and self-image drive her ambitions for a better future in the USA. After a shockingly abrupt end to her relationship with her wealthy boyfriend, she finds herself at a crossroads: her work visa is in jeopardy, and she needs a quick solution.

Enter Riggs Bates, a charming billionaire whose laid-back approach to life and photography contradicts his wealth. Riggs believes that money doesn't equate to happiness, living a life defined by experiences rather than possessions. When Duffy proposes a fake marriage to secure her green card, he reluctantly agrees, setting the stage for a captivating partnership.

As Duffy and Riggs navigate their unconventional arrangement, the chemistry between them sizzles. Initially, they view each other through a lens of preconceived notions, but as they spend time together, those impressions begin to shift. Their conversations reveal deeper layers to their personalities, and the connection they form is both genuine and heartwarming.

The writing is engaging and fluid, making it hard to put the book down. The plot unfolds seamlessly, with well-developed characters that draw readers into their world. Duffy's determination to find happiness and Riggs' quest for authenticity make for a compelling narrative that resonates.

"Cold Hearted Casanova" is more than just a romance; it’s a journey of self-discovery and the realization that love can blossom in the most unexpected circumstances. If you’re looking for a fun, emotional, and beautifully written story, this book is a must-read! I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next.