A boss. His employee.
And a scandal that’s about to change everything…
As an operating partner at Jade Harbour, Raymond Chao prides himself in fixing even the most disastrous of portfolio companies—no matter the cost. While his colleagues might not always like his methods, they love his results. But his latest business partner isn’t cooperating, and what’s worse, Raymond’s underhanded tactics have landed him in hot water with the law.
Elvin Goh has been Raymond’s assistant for years, and he’s been in love with the charming, ruthless playboy for just as long. There’s very little that Elvin won’t do—or hasn’t done—for Raymond. Impossible crush aside, it’s his job. But this time, even Elvin can’t see a way out.
When long nights in the office lead to whispered confessions and a newfound intimacy, it seems like a dream come true—for both of them. But with the prospect of failure on the horizon, can this dream team beat the odds and come out the victors in the office and in their hearts?
Jade Harbour Capital
Book 1: Hard Sell
Book 2: Going Public
Carina Adores is home to highly romantic contemporary love stories where LGBTQ+ characters find their happily-ever-afters. Discover a new Carina Adores book every month!
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There is a lot to unpack in this book. Book 1 had fallen a bit flat for me, but I really liked that the author had representation from the Asian community, as this one also does. So, I wasn’t sure what to expect with book 2, as sometimes the second in a series can be underwhelming. I enjoyed this one quite a bit more.
One of the biggest reasons why I enjoyed it, was the reality that was brought into it. Ray was super rich, and along with that, he had a job where he did things as he wanted, no matter what, and always got away with it. The consequences, thus far had been minimal. However, in the case of the situation he found himself in, Ray was going up against something unexpected at a paper company of all places (I won’t say what, because spoiler), and clearly had no idea how to handle it. In the end, that is quite obvious. Even that, though, shows a reality when you get yourself in over your head, and you think you can do what you want. Sometimes life will just kick you in the nuts and say “Nope, I win”. Meanwhile, though, Ray finally figured out what a great person he had in Elvin, his assistant, but more than that, his person.
Elvin, very clearly, was in love with Ray. How nobody saw that, it’s truly a mystery. Even knowing, though, that he would likely never get a chance to be with Ray, he continued to help him with what he could, (even in a particularly yucky situation), knowing he was making Ray’s life easier. Ray was a fixer, always wanting to clean up for everyone in his life, and taking so very little for himself. It was lovely to see him finally get a chance at the love of his life finally. And once they got together, they were good for each other…other than some dumb stuff Ray did…but he got his crap together, so we’ll forgive him. 🙂
Having an MC that was pansexual and one that was demisexual (and a virgin!) was great. With Ray being the type of person he was, Elvin as well, it seemed appropriate for both of them.
Side note: Ming grew on me quickly.
Definitely recommend this one. It has some action, some unexpected twists, some heart-wrenching moments, but an HEA.
4.5 pieces of eye candy