Saying “I Do” to her boss seemed like a harmless solution to a potentially harmful problem.
But the only problem now is that she wants the marriage to be real.
When Marissa Barrett finds herself in a dangerous situation with her family, she needs help. Fast. Normally the queen of problem solving, this is one instance where she just can’t seem to find a solution on her own. All she wanted from her boss was help finding an attorney. But before she knows exactly how it’s happened, they’re standing in front of a justice of the peace.
Patrick Donovan would do anything to help Marissa. After all, she’s been helping him run his business for years. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t wildly attracted to her, but there was no way he would ever act on it. Plus, with his meddling family looking to see him settle down, the last thing he needed was any kind of romantic relationship. But when Marissa turns to him for help, suddenly he sees a way to do it that benefits them both.
One year of marriage. That was the agreement.
But everything’s negotiable, right?
Published Date: 18 July 2023
My Review
Patrick Donovan, the top real estate agent in Laurel Bay, strives to maintain a private life while keeping his matchmaking mother at bay. Supported by his efficient assistant, Marissa Barrett, Patrick’s professional success owes much to her organizational skills. When Marissa’s personal life spills into her work, Patrick proposes a marriage of convenience to address both their problems—keeping her family at a distance and thwarting his mother’s matchmaking efforts, particularly with his siblings’ upcoming weddings.
Their relationship evolves from friendship to lovers, with Patrick hoping to shield Marissa, and while attempts to lead separate lives prove challenging, their inevitable attraction unfolds without explicit scenes. The narrative introduces a lively ensemble cast, including Patrick’s siblings, their partners, cousins, and Marissa’s brother Daren. As the Donovan family gathers, chaos ensues, weaving a tale of family, relationships, greed, addiction, acceptance, and love. The fast-paced, character-driven story is both heart-wrenching and engaging, with numerous dynamic characters and a subtly sweet romance.
My Rating
My Sanctuary 