Lena Joly has a fierce soul for healing every pet who limps into her struggling clinic. Taming human jerkwads is nothing new—until the day Brady Pruitt storms in with an adorable lost puppy.
There’s nothing cute about him. His wicked reputation overshadows devastating good looks and a jaw-dropping fortune. She’s relieved to send Seattle’s infamous bad boy billionaire packing and get back to fighting for her clinic. But Brady already decided the spitfire who ranks him lower than a banana peel can convince his family he’s finally respectable.
Lena could scream. A temporary “engagement” to fool his optics-obsessed parents? An obscene payday to keep tails wagging forever? And practice kissing?
Holy hell. The girl with barbed wire guarding her scarred love life can’t hide when the butterflies hit. And after their love for animals sweeps them away, after pillow talk becomes bad habit, after it feels too real, two stone hearts will be glorious confetti…
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My Review
This book is about Lena, a struggling vet nurse trying to rebuild her life after a disastrous breakup, and Brady, a wealthy, commanding businessman who proposes a contract engagement that blurs the line between business and desire. What begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly deepens into something far more complicated—and far more real.
The fake engagement trope is executed beautifully, layered with emotional tension and undeniable chemistry. Brady initially appears controlled and distant, but his transformation into a fiercely protective, all-in hero adds depth and swoon-worthy intensity. His devotion to Lena, especially as her past resurfaces, raises the emotional stakes in all the right ways.
Lena shines as a relatable and compassionate heroine. Her career as a vet nurse grounds the story, highlighting her nurturing strength even when she feels vulnerable. Watching her slowly trust Brady—and seeing him fall harder than he ever anticipated—makes their journey incredibly satisfying.
With steamy moments balanced by heartfelt growth and genuine emotional conflict, Almost Real delivers a romance that feels passionate, dramatic, and ultimately tender.
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