What do you think?
Rate this book
Wall Street Empire: Strictly Business #1
Protege King
Damion West was the boy who stole my young heart and then broke it. That was a long time ago though and I’m not a girl susceptible to hot boys with big egos who just happen to kiss well anymore. Nor have I kept up with Damion West. Okay, I have. Everyone has. He's the heir to West Enterprises, and notoriously loud on social media.
Everyone knows Damion West.
Just not like I do.
But that's another story better left untold.
It’s hard sometimes to remember that I’m no slouch myself. Confidence isn't exactly my forte but I fake it well. I’ve worked with my parents’ real estate firm catering to the rich and famous for years and I'm now one of the top agents in the country. Blue Enterprises is the name of our firm, which is also my name. Blue. Alana Blue. And now I'm on TV, the star of Selling in New York.
But every family has secrets. Damion's does and mine does as well.
That's why I have the TV show I didn't really want.
Nothing is real.
Except him. Damion. He's real. So is my past with him. But it's the past.
Then one day I get called to a meeting by the studio head, it's all very secretive.
Because it's not the studio at all, or actually, it is. Because his family owns everything.
That's right.
The meeting is with him. It's with Damion West.
And Lord help me, he's now sexier, and more arrogant than ever.
Also it turns out that what Damion wants from me isn't as simple as a real estate contract.
But it's a contract all right.
Everyone knows Damion West.
Just not like I do.
But that's another story better left untold.
It’s hard sometimes to remember that I’m no slouch myself. Confidence isn't exactly my forte but I fake it well. I’ve worked with my parents’ real estate firm catering to the rich and famous for years and I'm now one of the top agents in the country. Blue Enterprises is the name of our firm, which is also my name. Blue. Alana Blue. And now I'm on TV, the star of Selling in New York.
But every family has secrets. Damion's does and mine does as well.
That's why I have the TV show I didn't really want.
Nothing is real.
Except him. Damion. He's real. So is my past with him. But it's the past.
Then one day I get called to a meeting by the studio head, it's all very secretive.
Because it's not the studio at all, or actually, it is. Because his family owns everything.
That's right.
The meeting is with him. It's with Damion West.
And Lord help me, he's now sexier, and more arrogant than ever.
Also it turns out that what Damion wants from me isn't as simple as a real estate contract.
But it's a contract all right.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2023
About the author
Lisa Renee Jones
340 books14.5k followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense. Sara’s character is strong, flawed, complex, and sexy - a modern girl we all can identify with.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews
July 4, 2023
Thanks to Netgally for the ARC.
🌟🌟/5
What can I say about this book.
It was a quick read with a lot of potential. I liked the idea of two friends growing up together and having life (and his father) divide them and them always find their way back to each other.
The execution though…. Questionable ❓❓
I think this book needs more editing. The flashback chapters could have been spread along the main storyline to let the reader discover their past slowly. Also it wasn’t clear to me how the chapters were divided and why they were sometimes.
Alana, the protagonist, was a little too shallow for me. I understand the love that she always had for Damion, but come on girl… a little self respect. Also all her family story and secrets could have been explained better (maybe with a flashback chapter since this model was already introduced in the book).
Damion was supposed to give this alpha vibe and I guess the ground work is there but what comes through is just a spoiled man that wants his candy.
Also the dialogues between the two were really superficial. I needed a little more honesty and let asking ‘what is this? What are we doing?’ Five times in a row every second chapter.
I gave two star because even though it was an ok book and I read in two sitting, it has flaws but also a lot of potential.
The story ends abruptly with a small plot twist and I don’t know how long book two will be but I hope the editing improves. Also if book two is also on the short side maybe it is with it to keep them as one book.
Also there are A LOT OF TYPOS! At some point I couldn’t understand the meeting of some phrases. (Therefore better editing)
🌟🌟/5
What can I say about this book.
It was a quick read with a lot of potential. I liked the idea of two friends growing up together and having life (and his father) divide them and them always find their way back to each other.
The execution though…. Questionable ❓❓
I think this book needs more editing. The flashback chapters could have been spread along the main storyline to let the reader discover their past slowly. Also it wasn’t clear to me how the chapters were divided and why they were sometimes.
Alana, the protagonist, was a little too shallow for me. I understand the love that she always had for Damion, but come on girl… a little self respect. Also all her family story and secrets could have been explained better (maybe with a flashback chapter since this model was already introduced in the book).
Damion was supposed to give this alpha vibe and I guess the ground work is there but what comes through is just a spoiled man that wants his candy.
Also the dialogues between the two were really superficial. I needed a little more honesty and let asking ‘what is this? What are we doing?’ Five times in a row every second chapter.
I gave two star because even though it was an ok book and I read in two sitting, it has flaws but also a lot of potential.
The story ends abruptly with a small plot twist and I don’t know how long book two will be but I hope the editing improves. Also if book two is also on the short side maybe it is with it to keep them as one book.
Also there are A LOT OF TYPOS! At some point I couldn’t understand the meeting of some phrases. (Therefore better editing)
May 14, 2023
Lisa Renee Jones returns with a brand new series featuring a second-chance romance between two childhood best friends turned enemies to lovers—Protégé King is her latest release. Alana and Damion's will they, won't they relationship is the main theme of the book and remains a point of contention between the two from childhood to adulthood. Throughout the years, the tension, longing, and angst between them kept building until it finally exploded and everything fell apart. There were so many obstacles in their path—the complicated relationship between Damion and Alana's parents, Damion himself because he kept Alana in the dark to protect her, and finally Alana because she buried her feelings for Damion and made assumptions about his character. From their unresolved feelings for each other to the miscommunication between them, Alana and Damion's relationship was messy, dramatic, frustrating, sexy, and intense. I was captivated by their story and the consequences of their union.
In the end, I did enjoy Alana and Damion's story despite my frustrations with them and the unresolved feelings that they still had with each other even after so many years. The book does end with a cliffhanger that will entice readers to pick up the sequel, Scorned Queen because Damion is finally making a move against his father after he left behind his only weakness in the world all those years ago. I appreciated the way the story was told from present day to the past and back to the present because it painted a complete picture of Damion and Alana's relationship and what happened between them. There is bad blood between Damion and his father because of what he did to Alana and her parents. Fans of Lisa Renee Jones will not want to miss out on this story because it features the same incredible writing, characterization, and intrigue that the author is known for in her previous books.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
"I want her. I've always wanted her. And I will never fail her again. I will never let her get hurt again."
In the end, I did enjoy Alana and Damion's story despite my frustrations with them and the unresolved feelings that they still had with each other even after so many years. The book does end with a cliffhanger that will entice readers to pick up the sequel, Scorned Queen because Damion is finally making a move against his father after he left behind his only weakness in the world all those years ago. I appreciated the way the story was told from present day to the past and back to the present because it painted a complete picture of Damion and Alana's relationship and what happened between them. There is bad blood between Damion and his father because of what he did to Alana and her parents. Fans of Lisa Renee Jones will not want to miss out on this story because it features the same incredible writing, characterization, and intrigue that the author is known for in her previous books.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
May 16, 2023
This is an angst filled story of friends to lovers to enemies to lovers to total heartbreak and drama. Damion and Alana have a rich multi-layered history. I loved getting their backstory with all its ups and downs. The author took me through each developmental stage and allowed me to experience the adoration, the love, the heartbreak. I adored getting it all.
This is not a lengthy read and with the driving force of these characters and the desire to see where they were going, I couldn’t set it aside. As the book comes to an end, the author has set things up in a way that I know we’re in for lots of familial intrigue and drama in Lisa Renee Jones fashion. Love it!
Mostly Heroine POV, some Hero
Safe
Triggers
Steam
This is not a lengthy read and with the driving force of these characters and the desire to see where they were going, I couldn’t set it aside. As the book comes to an end, the author has set things up in a way that I know we’re in for lots of familial intrigue and drama in Lisa Renee Jones fashion. Love it!
Mostly Heroine POV, some Hero
Safe
Triggers
Steam
July 23, 2023
“You can spread my legs, Damion, but you will never own me.”
“I already own you. You just don’t know it yet.”
Okay so this book has the second chance/childhood friends to lovers tropes. I did not expect to like it so much but the tropes were really surprising which captured my attention! Damion & Alana always belonged together and their connection everytime they met again was undeniable. I liked both of their characters. Alaba was strong yet vulnerable while Damion was mysterious and protective. The one thing I did not like though was how easily Alana caved in and forgave Damion everytime he did something wrong. Plot wise, the book was predictable but I enjoyed reading it regardless. I wish I knew it's a duet first because I guess the next book comes out in May 2024, I don't know how am I going to wait for that long. I'm intrigued to see what happens next after the cliffhanger this book left off on.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
“I already own you. You just don’t know it yet.”
Okay so this book has the second chance/childhood friends to lovers tropes. I did not expect to like it so much but the tropes were really surprising which captured my attention! Damion & Alana always belonged together and their connection everytime they met again was undeniable. I liked both of their characters. Alaba was strong yet vulnerable while Damion was mysterious and protective. The one thing I did not like though was how easily Alana caved in and forgave Damion everytime he did something wrong. Plot wise, the book was predictable but I enjoyed reading it regardless. I wish I knew it's a duet first because I guess the next book comes out in May 2024, I don't know how am I going to wait for that long. I'm intrigued to see what happens next after the cliffhanger this book left off on.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
September 17, 2023
Thanks to Libro.fm for the advanced copy.
Yikes, this was bad. Horrible writing, awful narration, and a horrendous ending.
Yikes, this was bad. Horrible writing, awful narration, and a horrendous ending.
May 16, 2023
I love the start to this series. Alana is a heroine I can respect and like. She has not had a fair life for the past 10 years and I’m intrigued to find out more to the story.
Damion seems like a hero who is going to come in and save the day for her, but he’s not completely innocent in things. His own father is targeting Alana because of Damion’s love for her. The one thing I wasn’t a fan of was the constant mention of him with other women.
The author did a great job of getting me hooked and wanting to find out how this is all going to play out.
Damion seems like a hero who is going to come in and save the day for her, but he’s not completely innocent in things. His own father is targeting Alana because of Damion’s love for her. The one thing I wasn’t a fan of was the constant mention of him with other women.
The author did a great job of getting me hooked and wanting to find out how this is all going to play out.
May 16, 2023
Rating: 4.5/5
“This is me telling you, Alana, I meant what I said earlier. I might not have said it until tonight, but you have always been it for me. Always.”
While I have heard about Lisa Renee Jones and her books before I haven’t read any of them yet until now. However, it is safe to say that I was not disappointed. This was great read and I can’t wait for the next one. I will definitely be checking out the author's other books.
There is nothing better than a second chance romance because the moment I saw second chance I automatically ran to apply for the ARC. I love when characters have a history and then find their way back to one another. To add on to that I love the angst that comes with second chance.
Protege King had the perfect amount of everything. While reading you really do feel the tension between both Damion and Alana, but you also see how much chemistry they have together. I just really loved them both. Now if there’s something about me though it’s that cliffhangers get me and I just akdjsjak. “The end…for now” did it for me because how was I supposed to go about my day after that.
Thank you to Lisa Renee Jones and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the ARC <3
“This is me telling you, Alana, I meant what I said earlier. I might not have said it until tonight, but you have always been it for me. Always.”
While I have heard about Lisa Renee Jones and her books before I haven’t read any of them yet until now. However, it is safe to say that I was not disappointed. This was great read and I can’t wait for the next one. I will definitely be checking out the author's other books.
There is nothing better than a second chance romance because the moment I saw second chance I automatically ran to apply for the ARC. I love when characters have a history and then find their way back to one another. To add on to that I love the angst that comes with second chance.
Protege King had the perfect amount of everything. While reading you really do feel the tension between both Damion and Alana, but you also see how much chemistry they have together. I just really loved them both. Now if there’s something about me though it’s that cliffhangers get me and I just akdjsjak. “The end…for now” did it for me because how was I supposed to go about my day after that.
Thank you to Lisa Renee Jones and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the ARC <3
Read
September 24, 2023Tropes: fake relationship, second chance, billionaire, childhood friends to enemies to lovers, neighbours
This was me when it ended though 🤔😧
Is it over ?
What kinda cliffhanger was that ?
Felt intense and dripping angst
But then I didn’t feel the resolution in the end and I like my stories neatly wrapped up
This did not
Unless if course the other books continue the story
Then I must say it’s a bit unnecessary to have that short story ending on a cliffhanger to make room for another part
If there’s none coming then this was not a very great use of my time
This was me when it ended though 🤔😧
Is it over ?
What kinda cliffhanger was that ?
Felt intense and dripping angst
But then I didn’t feel the resolution in the end and I like my stories neatly wrapped up
This did not
Unless if course the other books continue the story
Then I must say it’s a bit unnecessary to have that short story ending on a cliffhanger to make room for another part
If there’s none coming then this was not a very great use of my time
July 27, 2023
I love a good afternoon quickie read and Lisa Renee Jones is the queen of erotic fun reads. She gives sexy angst like nobody else! I can't wait for what's coming next in the Wall Street Empire: Strictly Business Series.
~Tanja
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
~Tanja
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
February 5, 2024
What a way to start a series!! Alana and Damion are childhood best friends that never crossed the line even though the feelings have always been there. She’s always thought that she’s not good enough for him but it’s the total opposite; he thinks he’s not good enough for her. He comes from a powerful, wealthy family and she doesn’t. She’s worked hard for what she has and for her family being their saving grace in everything. One night they cross that imaginary line and then he disappears. Fast forward ten years and he returns turning her life upside down. Only this time there’s a lot on the line and his father is not a fan of her and her parents aren’t a fan of him. So much has changed during the years that has caused these families to despise each other but their kids can’t seem to stay apart. Damion’s father is dangerous and has something up his sleeves that can destroy both of them but who knows what it is. Poor Alana seems to be confused on who she can and can’t trust. Let’s see how things continue in book 2 because Damion has his work cut out for him.
January 28, 2024
I know Lisa Renee Jones’ style is not for everyone, but I have enjoyed every book of hers I’ve read. There’s enough language and imagery to paint the scene, but not overdone in that you’re skimming paragraph after paragraph of drivel.
I appreciated that the flashback scenes were all together, instead of planting breadcrumbs about drama that really isn’t a focus. While yes the characters need to get through it, there is so much more going on with the book and plot, the past is not the part we are focusing on.
And with that being said, I do actually appreciate the breadcrumbs with plot details regarding the story moving forward. It makes you wonder, try and figure things out ahead of time, and keeps you engaged. I’ve seen a couple other reviews about there being too many unanswered questions, but ultimately this series is still getting started and is planned to be (at least) a trilogy, so those answers will come in time. Just let Ms Jones work her magic! I’m in for it.
I appreciated that the flashback scenes were all together, instead of planting breadcrumbs about drama that really isn’t a focus. While yes the characters need to get through it, there is so much more going on with the book and plot, the past is not the part we are focusing on.
And with that being said, I do actually appreciate the breadcrumbs with plot details regarding the story moving forward. It makes you wonder, try and figure things out ahead of time, and keeps you engaged. I’ve seen a couple other reviews about there being too many unanswered questions, but ultimately this series is still getting started and is planned to be (at least) a trilogy, so those answers will come in time. Just let Ms Jones work her magic! I’m in for it.
May 21, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Protégé King is book one in Lisa Renee Jones trilogy, Wall Street Empire: Strictly Business. In this series Jones gives her readers a friends to enemies to lovers romance and a fake engagement trope.
Protégé King introduces readers to Damion West and Alana Blue. From early in the story, one can see how well the title fits. Damion’s father is a ruthless corporate raider, and he’s been grooming Damion to be like him. However, Damion has no intention of being like father. He plans to topple his father from his position, but to do so, he had to enlist the help of the woman who owns his heart. He knows he should maintain his distance, something he has done for many years. However, despite the strength he displays, Alana remains his one weakness.
This book delivered lots of frustrating moments. Damion and Alana were next-door neighbors and best friends. Circumstances led to them drifting apart and losing touch with each other. Despite the years apart, their feelings for each other never faded. Now the frustrations came from these two failing to acknowledge their feelings for each other and their refusal to communicate. So you can imagine the levels of angst and sexual tension permeating the story.
The secondary characters added another dimension to the story. First, there is Alana’s parents whose choices negatively affect her dreams. A choice which also left them indebted to the West family. A situation which Damion’s father maliciously took advantage of. I can see why he and Damion does not get along.
Secrets, betrayals and revenge drove the story and with each page turn, one wonders what next will come to light. The story moved between the past and the present. This gives readers a complete picture of Damion and Alana’s relationship from childhood to adulthood.
The story went well until the cliff hanging end. The moment it up ended, leaving the reader with lots of questions. Despite the cliffhanger, Protégé King delivered an interesting and fast-paced tale of intrigue served with a helping of steamy romance.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Protégé King is book one in Lisa Renee Jones trilogy, Wall Street Empire: Strictly Business. In this series Jones gives her readers a friends to enemies to lovers romance and a fake engagement trope.
Protégé King introduces readers to Damion West and Alana Blue. From early in the story, one can see how well the title fits. Damion’s father is a ruthless corporate raider, and he’s been grooming Damion to be like him. However, Damion has no intention of being like father. He plans to topple his father from his position, but to do so, he had to enlist the help of the woman who owns his heart. He knows he should maintain his distance, something he has done for many years. However, despite the strength he displays, Alana remains his one weakness.
This book delivered lots of frustrating moments. Damion and Alana were next-door neighbors and best friends. Circumstances led to them drifting apart and losing touch with each other. Despite the years apart, their feelings for each other never faded. Now the frustrations came from these two failing to acknowledge their feelings for each other and their refusal to communicate. So you can imagine the levels of angst and sexual tension permeating the story.
The secondary characters added another dimension to the story. First, there is Alana’s parents whose choices negatively affect her dreams. A choice which also left them indebted to the West family. A situation which Damion’s father maliciously took advantage of. I can see why he and Damion does not get along.
Secrets, betrayals and revenge drove the story and with each page turn, one wonders what next will come to light. The story moved between the past and the present. This gives readers a complete picture of Damion and Alana’s relationship from childhood to adulthood.
The story went well until the cliff hanging end. The moment it up ended, leaving the reader with lots of questions. Despite the cliffhanger, Protégé King delivered an interesting and fast-paced tale of intrigue served with a helping of steamy romance.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
September 4, 2023
A complicated and STEAMY childhood friends to lovers second chance romance told through flashbacks as we see how these next door neighbors went years hurting one another only to come face to face in the present and see if they can finally find their happily ever after. I am a sucker for friends to lovers and enjoyed this new to me author's latest a whole lot! Perfect for fans of Max Monroe and KA Tucker and good on audio. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
May 8, 2023
4.5⭐
It's been ages since I last read a Lisa Renee Jones story. That wasn't part of the Lilah Love series. So, I was super excited to get my hands on an early copy of Protege King.
An enthralling and sexy story featuring the mysterious Damion West. Who is billed as the protege to his father. A ruthless businessman. A corporate raider. Who will do anything and walk over anyone to get what he wants.
But Damion claims he is different and is ready to dethrone his father. But to do that he needs the one woman he knows he should stay far away from. His weakness Alana Blue.
Who grew up next door to him in New Jersey and claimed she was going to marry him when she was seven years old.
Yet, she soon learns Damion isn't the boy for her and by her early twenties, she had been burned enough times to know he isn't worth it.
But thanks to Alana's dad, her family is deeply entangled with the Wests and when Damion reappears Alana really can't say no to him.
Yet, with so many secrets between them. Not to mention a lot of bad history. Can the pair really survive and get a happy ending or will Damion's father strike a final blow?
And with a cliffhanger ending, plenty of tension, chemistry and intrigue. This was a cracking start to a new series, and I can't wait for Scorned Queen to find out what happens next.
My thanks to Lisa Renee Jones and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the opportunity to read an early copy of Protege King. 😊
It's been ages since I last read a Lisa Renee Jones story. That wasn't part of the Lilah Love series. So, I was super excited to get my hands on an early copy of Protege King.
An enthralling and sexy story featuring the mysterious Damion West. Who is billed as the protege to his father. A ruthless businessman. A corporate raider. Who will do anything and walk over anyone to get what he wants.
But Damion claims he is different and is ready to dethrone his father. But to do that he needs the one woman he knows he should stay far away from. His weakness Alana Blue.
Who grew up next door to him in New Jersey and claimed she was going to marry him when she was seven years old.
Yet, she soon learns Damion isn't the boy for her and by her early twenties, she had been burned enough times to know he isn't worth it.
But thanks to Alana's dad, her family is deeply entangled with the Wests and when Damion reappears Alana really can't say no to him.
Yet, with so many secrets between them. Not to mention a lot of bad history. Can the pair really survive and get a happy ending or will Damion's father strike a final blow?
And with a cliffhanger ending, plenty of tension, chemistry and intrigue. This was a cracking start to a new series, and I can't wait for Scorned Queen to find out what happens next.
My thanks to Lisa Renee Jones and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the opportunity to read an early copy of Protege King. 😊
May 16, 2023
I honestly can’t tell you the last time I decided to invest in a Lisa Renee journey before said journey was complete, but when I read the synopsis for Protégé King, I couldn’t help but jump right in! It’s a quick read, but intense and captivating. I found myself reading it in just a handful of hours because I couldn’t wait to find out what was coming next!
This is only the beginning and I really hate reviewing with too much information stories that I know are either duets or trilogies but I do have to say that I love not just the build of the romance journey between Alana and Damion but also the build of the story / mystery. That may not be the correct wording and is probably confusing (LOL) but there’s a tangled web of deceit, lies, manipulations and just plain #fuckery floating all around them in the shadows that needs to come to the light in order for them to have a real shot at a future. That, I assume, will all come together and explode more than it already has in Scorned Queen!
This is only the beginning and I really hate reviewing with too much information stories that I know are either duets or trilogies but I do have to say that I love not just the build of the romance journey between Alana and Damion but also the build of the story / mystery. That may not be the correct wording and is probably confusing (LOL) but there’s a tangled web of deceit, lies, manipulations and just plain #fuckery floating all around them in the shadows that needs to come to the light in order for them to have a real shot at a future. That, I assume, will all come together and explode more than it already has in Scorned Queen!
June 29, 2023
this is a pretty short book and for it being so short, its not the worst but also not the greatest. the book felt lifeless, i can tell there was an attempt at past chapters for some history but the reasons for their fighting felt very childish and really dumb. all the angst couldve been resolved with some basic communication. this just wasn't for me. i feel like if it were a longer book maybe i couldve connected with it more but it didn't work. thanks to netgalley for the arc.
July 22, 2023
2 Stars! WARNING! Book has a Cliffhanger ending!
I didn’t love this one. Both the main characters were kinda childish. It’s called communication people, try it! This is the first book in the ‘Wall Street Empire’ series and CAN NOT be read as a standalone. If there is one thing I really can’t stand, it’s a book ending with a cliffhanger. They should be illegal! If I’d known this had a cliffhanger ending, I wouldn’t have read it. The main characters were besties growing up but then for some reason, they don’t talk for 3 years & then 10 years. Why?! Freakin talk instead of just jumping all over each other, then not talk for years. A lot of lust, not really any love. It sounded like a really interesting story, but didn’t come together the way I’d hoped. It could be a great read with a few tweaks.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
I didn’t love this one. Both the main characters were kinda childish. It’s called communication people, try it! This is the first book in the ‘Wall Street Empire’ series and CAN NOT be read as a standalone. If there is one thing I really can’t stand, it’s a book ending with a cliffhanger. They should be illegal! If I’d known this had a cliffhanger ending, I wouldn’t have read it. The main characters were besties growing up but then for some reason, they don’t talk for 3 years & then 10 years. Why?! Freakin talk instead of just jumping all over each other, then not talk for years. A lot of lust, not really any love. It sounded like a really interesting story, but didn’t come together the way I’d hoped. It could be a great read with a few tweaks.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
January 4, 2024
*I received an audiobook via the Libro.FM ALC program in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
2.5 stars
This was a random pick that I decided to take a chance on. I’m a big romance fan, I’ve never read anything by Lisa Renee Jones, and the premise intrigued me. It was a bonus that the audiobook was fairly short.
To start, I do not recommend the audiobook for this one. I did not care for the narrators and feel like I may have had a better experience with this book if I had read with my eyes instead of using the audiobook. That being said, I think this book needed a little more work. The chapter split for the past vs the present was confusing, especially while listening to it. I agree with another review saying that they should have been spread out throughout the story. Instead we got a chapter in the present. Then there were multiple chapters set in the past where the backstory was dumped and then finally back to the present with an hour left in the audio. I really think it could have been executed better if spread out a bit more throughout the story.
I hate to have such a bad rating for my first read of the year, but it is what it is. I did like the spice in the book, but that was about it for me. The idea of wall street billionaires romance was great, but the execution did not work out for me. The book ended in a cliffhanger, but I honestly was not impressed. If this book had been longer and not so condensed, the whole plot could have been worked to be better.
All of that being said, this book did not work for me and I will not be continuing on with the series.
2.5 stars
This was a random pick that I decided to take a chance on. I’m a big romance fan, I’ve never read anything by Lisa Renee Jones, and the premise intrigued me. It was a bonus that the audiobook was fairly short.
To start, I do not recommend the audiobook for this one. I did not care for the narrators and feel like I may have had a better experience with this book if I had read with my eyes instead of using the audiobook. That being said, I think this book needed a little more work. The chapter split for the past vs the present was confusing, especially while listening to it. I agree with another review saying that they should have been spread out throughout the story. Instead we got a chapter in the present. Then there were multiple chapters set in the past where the backstory was dumped and then finally back to the present with an hour left in the audio. I really think it could have been executed better if spread out a bit more throughout the story.
I hate to have such a bad rating for my first read of the year, but it is what it is. I did like the spice in the book, but that was about it for me. The idea of wall street billionaires romance was great, but the execution did not work out for me. The book ended in a cliffhanger, but I honestly was not impressed. If this book had been longer and not so condensed, the whole plot could have been worked to be better.
All of that being said, this book did not work for me and I will not be continuing on with the series.
July 1, 2023
Quick Summary: A friends to lovers to enemies to lovers story
My Review: Protege King by Lisa Renee Jones was a pop up surprise. I was completely drawn into this story from the start. It held my attention until the very end.
About the Book: This book features childhood friends, Damion and Alana. They are so close and quite obviously have strong feelings for one another. Needless to say, they have chosen not act on those feelings...until they do. However, some things occur that prevent them from being together in the way that they deserve. It is much bigger than Alana knows and more than Damion is willing to tell her. How far are they each willing to go to bring about true reconciliation? Will outside forces tip their hand before they have a chance at real love?
About the Conflict: There is a lot going on in this book. The dysfunction, co-dependency, and treachery are rampant. Throughout, there is a dark undercurrent that taints the reunion between the two friends. Damion and Alana are being pressed from all sides.
My Final Say: Protege King has earned a gold star from this reader. This story and its continuation are must reads.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA to A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Series: Yes
Status: M
Level: ⭐
Chemistry: +++
Angst: +++
Sizzle: +++
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher, and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. The words I voluntarily shared are my own.
My Review: Protege King by Lisa Renee Jones was a pop up surprise. I was completely drawn into this story from the start. It held my attention until the very end.
About the Book: This book features childhood friends, Damion and Alana. They are so close and quite obviously have strong feelings for one another. Needless to say, they have chosen not act on those feelings...until they do. However, some things occur that prevent them from being together in the way that they deserve. It is much bigger than Alana knows and more than Damion is willing to tell her. How far are they each willing to go to bring about true reconciliation? Will outside forces tip their hand before they have a chance at real love?
About the Conflict: There is a lot going on in this book. The dysfunction, co-dependency, and treachery are rampant. Throughout, there is a dark undercurrent that taints the reunion between the two friends. Damion and Alana are being pressed from all sides.
My Final Say: Protege King has earned a gold star from this reader. This story and its continuation are must reads.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA to A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Series: Yes
Status: M
Level: ⭐
Chemistry: +++
Angst: +++
Sizzle: +++
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher, and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. The words I voluntarily shared are my own.
June 4, 2023
Rating: ☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Angst: 💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? More a HFN
Do I recommend it? ✅️
Tropes: fake relationship, second chance, billionaire, friends to enemies to lovers
Damian West was the boy who stole her heart at a young age, and then broke it. That was a long time ago, and she's no longer susceptible to men like him. As the heir to West Enterprises, everyone knows his name. It's hard to remember that she's a great package as well. Confidence isn't something she does well, but she can fake it. As she worked for her parent's real estate firm, she's used to catering to the rich and famous. Blue Enterprises is the name and now she's on TV as the star of Selling in New York. But every family has secrets including both his family and hers. That is why she has the TV show, one she doesn't want. Nothing is real but Damian is. When she's called to a meeting, it's secretive. Because the studio is owned by his family. When she has to meet with him, she sees he is just sexier and more arrogant than ever. What he wants from her certainly isn't simple as a real estate contract. But it's still a contract.
This is one complicated plot. I usually don't read fake relationship tropes but I have to say this one pleasantly surprised me. It's a story told in past and present. The plot was captivating and intense. I stayed on the edge of my seat and found myself turning pages late into the night. I loved the tension and I can't wait to see what comes next. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? More a HFN
Do I recommend it? ✅️
Tropes: fake relationship, second chance, billionaire, friends to enemies to lovers
Damian West was the boy who stole her heart at a young age, and then broke it. That was a long time ago, and she's no longer susceptible to men like him. As the heir to West Enterprises, everyone knows his name. It's hard to remember that she's a great package as well. Confidence isn't something she does well, but she can fake it. As she worked for her parent's real estate firm, she's used to catering to the rich and famous. Blue Enterprises is the name and now she's on TV as the star of Selling in New York. But every family has secrets including both his family and hers. That is why she has the TV show, one she doesn't want. Nothing is real but Damian is. When she's called to a meeting, it's secretive. Because the studio is owned by his family. When she has to meet with him, she sees he is just sexier and more arrogant than ever. What he wants from her certainly isn't simple as a real estate contract. But it's still a contract.
This is one complicated plot. I usually don't read fake relationship tropes but I have to say this one pleasantly surprised me. It's a story told in past and present. The plot was captivating and intense. I stayed on the edge of my seat and found myself turning pages late into the night. I loved the tension and I can't wait to see what comes next. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
July 10, 2023
We follow Damion and Alana from when they are children to adults. Alana has a hard time acting on her feelings and puts her heart in a cage not allowing herself to love her best friend Damion. Damion on the other hand has to keep his hands to himself due to the promise he made to Alana which is they are never going to be more than friends in case they broke up and they lose each other. Alana has a few close calls but Damion proves to be a player. My heart broke for her as she was growing and learning to be open with her feelings and certain circumstances made her go back into her shell.
After a few years, Alana meets Damion again and discovers something about her father. She feels the need to pay back her childhood friend and she has her very own television show. She finds out her first love is behind the financial backing. Although Damion tells Alana she doesn’t need to pay him back he does need a favor. Here enters the fake engagement trope we all love and some hate.
This book had me clutching my nonexistent pearls every second wondering what Alana and Damion were going to do next! My heart was aching for Alana in one moment and then racing with anticipation of her interactions with Damion. I felt so giddy when Alana finally and I mean FINALLY lets her heart win but of course, Damion messes it up. Like please let my girl win for once! Then we have a cliffhanger?! Why are you playing with my emotions?? However girlies there is good news… there is a book 2 and best believe your girl is going to binge it!
After a few years, Alana meets Damion again and discovers something about her father. She feels the need to pay back her childhood friend and she has her very own television show. She finds out her first love is behind the financial backing. Although Damion tells Alana she doesn’t need to pay him back he does need a favor. Here enters the fake engagement trope we all love and some hate.
This book had me clutching my nonexistent pearls every second wondering what Alana and Damion were going to do next! My heart was aching for Alana in one moment and then racing with anticipation of her interactions with Damion. I felt so giddy when Alana finally and I mean FINALLY lets her heart win but of course, Damion messes it up. Like please let my girl win for once! Then we have a cliffhanger?! Why are you playing with my emotions?? However girlies there is good news… there is a book 2 and best believe your girl is going to binge it!
September 4, 2023
This is part 1 of the Wall Street Empire: Strictly Business series. I have to say my biggest problem with the story is the format. It quickly jumps to the past of Damian and Alana as childhood friends/neighbors and jumps of points of them growing up and with a few inserts of present (adult) scenes, which does end in present day (& cliffhanger). I just think a lot of things were glossed over with the main plot of the story as I think it have been more linear. Just that their families are causing a rift within each other. I'm glad I listened to the audiobook though.
Narrated by Tatiana Sokolov and Tim Paige (who only had a few chapters).
I received this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Narrated by Tatiana Sokolov and Tim Paige (who only had a few chapters).
I received this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 27, 2023
The protege king has palpable chemistry! 4 stars
The protege king Damion and Alana had palpable chemistry, and “the emotional bond that spans decades.” I don’t normally read second chance romance (they’ve known each other most of their lives), but this author’s writing pulled me in from the beginning. I’m glad we got a look at their past since it informs their present. Alana frustrated me with her assumptions; I wish Damion would have had more chapters in his POV, because I liked him more than her. Towards the end of the book Alana thinks, “I don’t know a lot of things right now,” and I look forward to her and me finding out why Damion has done things the way he has. This is a cliffhanger, but to me it was nothing shocking; it was just a tease for what we’ll get in the next book.
The protege king Damion and Alana had palpable chemistry, and “the emotional bond that spans decades.” I don’t normally read second chance romance (they’ve known each other most of their lives), but this author’s writing pulled me in from the beginning. I’m glad we got a look at their past since it informs their present. Alana frustrated me with her assumptions; I wish Damion would have had more chapters in his POV, because I liked him more than her. Towards the end of the book Alana thinks, “I don’t know a lot of things right now,” and I look forward to her and me finding out why Damion has done things the way he has. This is a cliffhanger, but to me it was nothing shocking; it was just a tease for what we’ll get in the next book.
May 28, 2023
This is a terrific start to this series and absolutely leaves you wanting more! You might not get the HEA in this book, but you definitely understand Damion’s intentions are all in the right place.
There is so much intrigue in Alana and Damion’s world and these two struggle to right the wrongs created by their families. You cannot help but love Alana’s strength and her selflessness in putting her family first. And even though Damion has been out of the picture for a while, his devotion to Alana is obvious.
This is the kind of compelling story that you crave the ending to, I cannot wait for the next book!
There is so much intrigue in Alana and Damion’s world and these two struggle to right the wrongs created by their families. You cannot help but love Alana’s strength and her selflessness in putting her family first. And even though Damion has been out of the picture for a while, his devotion to Alana is obvious.
This is the kind of compelling story that you crave the ending to, I cannot wait for the next book!
May 21, 2023
“𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦...𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯, 𝘈𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘢. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘰, 𝘐 𝘨𝘰.”
—Protege King by Lisa Renee Jones
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**
Love Lisa Renee Jones! She wrote one of my fave small-town, cowboy romance—𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐰𝐛𝐨𝐲𝐬. I don't remember how many times I've re-read it but it still is one of my top 10 favorite reads of all time.
Now on to this book...
Man... I did not know this was going to be a duet... Just when it was becoming sooooo good and riveting!
Love the storyline, love the main characters... I finished it overnight! I can't put it down.... I tried to let myself sleep but I just can't. I just had to know what happens next.
Damion West and Alana Blue are childhood bestfriends turned into something more as the years passed... inopportune timing has always been the cause of them not being together... and when things seemed to go the right direction, something (or someone) gets in their way... **sigh**
The story is heartwarming, sexy, and swoon-worthy.
I really I wish I didn't have to wait long for what happens next... I guess I'm just so excited and curious to know what happens next for these two.
I definitely recommend!
–Anne💚
**
—Protege King by Lisa Renee Jones
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**
Love Lisa Renee Jones! She wrote one of my fave small-town, cowboy romance—𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐰𝐛𝐨𝐲𝐬. I don't remember how many times I've re-read it but it still is one of my top 10 favorite reads of all time.
Now on to this book...
Man... I did not know this was going to be a duet... Just when it was becoming sooooo good and riveting!
Love the storyline, love the main characters... I finished it overnight! I can't put it down.... I tried to let myself sleep but I just can't. I just had to know what happens next.
Damion West and Alana Blue are childhood bestfriends turned into something more as the years passed... inopportune timing has always been the cause of them not being together... and when things seemed to go the right direction, something (or someone) gets in their way... **sigh**
The story is heartwarming, sexy, and swoon-worthy.
I really I wish I didn't have to wait long for what happens next... I guess I'm just so excited and curious to know what happens next for these two.
I definitely recommend!
–Anne💚
**
May 27, 2023
Oh my! The Protege King is a book that will grab you and not let go. Not even when you’re finished. I can’t can’t until the next installment. Damion and Alana are scorching with the perfect amount of push and pull that sets the pages on fire. Chemistry that’s undeniable, hatred that burns and protectiveness that makes you swoon. Not sure what more you could ask for in this friends to lovers, romantic suspense. This five star read is going to be the first in this series and is going to leave you reeling.
May 28, 2023
Ugh! Protege King had my emotions all over the place. One minute i’m like awe, the next I’m pissed as hell. Alana and Damion have so many things they have kept hidden from one another. Beg’s the question was it ever the timing, or was it something more.
I am a huge fan of LRJ, and cannot wait for book 2 Scorned Queen.
I am a huge fan of LRJ, and cannot wait for book 2 Scorned Queen.
May 28, 2023
Highly entertaining, action-packed, sweetly sexy and emotionally thrilling journey filled with witty and engaging charters, heart racing twists and undeniable passion. An edge of your seat and emotional roller-coaster read from beginning to end.
July 9, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review through Booksprout.
The tug of war between friendship and love can be detrimental to a relationship. Family and loyalties tested. Alana and Damion have always been friends but never really more than that. To Damion, she was always just the girl next door, or so she thought. Alana has never known what it's like not to have Damion around until she goes off to college herself and hasn't had to revel in his presence for nearly 3 years. Then one meet at a frat party changes everything and the trajectory their future will take, but even Alana isn't aware of it. 10 years later, Damion is back in Alana's life with a huge favor that not only could save her and her family and bring Damion from protégé to King. But there's a wild card that is Damion's father...
I'm looking good forward to reading the rest of Alana and Damion's story.
The tug of war between friendship and love can be detrimental to a relationship. Family and loyalties tested. Alana and Damion have always been friends but never really more than that. To Damion, she was always just the girl next door, or so she thought. Alana has never known what it's like not to have Damion around until she goes off to college herself and hasn't had to revel in his presence for nearly 3 years. Then one meet at a frat party changes everything and the trajectory their future will take, but even Alana isn't aware of it. 10 years later, Damion is back in Alana's life with a huge favor that not only could save her and her family and bring Damion from protégé to King. But there's a wild card that is Damion's father...
I'm looking good forward to reading the rest of Alana and Damion's story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews