Limecello’s review of Billionaire’s Marriage Bargain by Leanne Banks
Contemporary romance published by Silhouette Desire on 12 Aug 08
I don’t know if I’ve mentioned it before, but Leanne Banks is one of my favorite Desire authors. She may be the one who first got me hooked on the line. I tend to enjoy both her category books as well as her novels. Billionaire’s Marriage Bargain is the second of her The Billionaire’s Club books. (I could have sworn I also reviewed the first, Bedded By the Billionaire, but I guess not. It was good, however.)
Mallory James is a fun heroine, who is smart, strong, and pragmatic. She’s had a crush on hero Alex Megalos, but got over it, and is very realistic as to where their relationship or lack thereof, is going (or not). Mallory has had to deal with overprotective parents, who love her, but stifle her. I didn’t quite like how easily she gave into Alex, but looking at it objectively, I understand her actions. I mean, he’s a rock star. (Not literally, but he’s one of the wealthiest, handsomest and most eligible bachelors in Vegas. That’s saying something.) Mallory has a great sense of humor, and personality. She’s bright, bubbly, fun, and really cares about people.
Alex Megalos is your typical Desire hero, but at the same time he’s so very likeable. He sees Mallory as someone different than his usual flavor of the month, and while he’s not so good at sharing his emotions, Alex definitely has them. I really enjoyed how Ms. Banks manages to tie in all aspects of her characters. Alex is Greek-American, and while he’s completely modern and lives all in today, there are certain cultural values that he’s carried over, such as being protective, and the provider of “his woman.” He can be old fashioned, and knows that about himself. It simply wasn’t something that interested him until now.
I enjoyed the story, though I felt the initial romance was a bit rushed. Additionally, the reason (excuse) that led to Mallory and Alex marrying was a bit weak. However, it could happen, and was enough to carry the story. I liked how Mallory reacted to the major conflict of the book – finding out or feeling that Alex had betrayed her. Being sadistic, I would have preferred her making him suffer a tiny bit more, but I suppose that’s not good for a healthy relationship. Having the perspective from both characters is another thing I really enjoyed about this book. It was nice to see how each aspect came together, and what each character was feeling. The explanation for how they acted and reacted forwarded the plot nicely.
The banter between Alex and Mallory is entertaining and engaging. Well written secondary characters also make the story that much more enjoyable. Although this book is the second in the series it’s definitely stand alone. Seeing the characters from previous books is just a nice little perk.
Another enjoyable book by Ms. Banks, I’m definitely looking forward to reading the third (and any subsequent) books in the Billionaire’s Club. My only wish is that she wrote write faster. I especially like her Desire books because they’re well written, offer a great story, but are also a fast and entertaining read. When you’re short on time but want something with substance, Ms. Banks is definitely an author to look into.
Grade: B
Beware of Billionaires
Marry Alex Megalos? Though tempted by the Greek billionaire, Mallory James knew his exploits were legendary. Involving herself with a man like Megalos could only lead to heartbreak. But she hadn’t counted on Alex’s determination to bed—and wed—the one woman he couldn’t have.
Forced to the altar by scandal, Mallory found herself almost believing that her new husband was committed to their vows. Until she discovered their marriage was the result of a bargain…with her as the ultimate prize.
Read an excerpt here.
