Billie Phillips's beauty has made her a household name, but she's ready to quit the world of modeling and pursue her real dream of flipping houses. All she needs is the help of one of Chicago's leading real estate moguls—a man who heats up her daydreams but vows never to surrender his heart.…

Tall, rich and charismatic, Jason Wainwright is willing to play along with Billie—especially if it means getting her into his bed. But Billie is all business and won't even agree to a date. By the time Jason's persistence finally pays off, will he be able to convince her that no woman—except her—could ever win his heart?

 

Excerpt:

"I never really wanted anyone eating out of my hand," she returned with a grin. "It sounds kind of unsanitary to me. Besides, the main reason I'm going to this soiree is because I want to meet Jason Wainwright. Anyone who's done as much in real estate as he has is someone I want to get to know," she said. "He's been in every business publication I can think of and every article about the future of residential real estate, blah-de-blahblah-blah. He's supposed to be the end-all and beall of real-estate sales in Chicago and I want to know his secrets." She sat on the sofa to stroke her sister's cat, Cha-Cha. She was a big Somali cat who preferred men, but showed affection to the few women she liked. Luckily Billie was one of those women.

"Whose secrets? Jason Wainwright's?" Dakota had joined them in the living room at last and her entrance was worth the wait, to judge by the smitten look on her husband's face. She and Billie looked a lot alike. They both had beautiful caramel skin, thick black hair and strong, sculpted features. Dakota was tall, but at six feet, Billie was taller. And Dakota had a figure that Billie envied. She always said that Dakota was built like a real woman. She had an awe-inspiring bustline, a small waist and womanly hips with big curvy legs. Billie always felt kind of bony and boyish around her big sister, but she knew better than to complain because Dakota would fuss at her about her self-esteem if she did. Besides, her long slender frame had earned her big bucks as a top model, so she would have been a real hypocrite to whine about it. Still, with Dakota looking so fabulous in a violet crepe dress with a halter neck and a plunging neckline, it was hard not to glance at her own small breasts with sheer dismay.

 

 Imani Book Club Review:  3.5

Billie Phillips has made her living as a high priced model and after earning the money she wanted she is ready to follow her dream to refurbish homes and sell them for a profit.  Not one to rest on her beauty, she wants to meet Jason Wainwright, who is at the top of his game in the housing industry and a contact with him could really set her new career on fire.  However, when they first meet Billie realizes she should have heeded her family's warning about his playboy ways. 

Jason Wainwright is a self-proclaim love 'em and leave 'em expert.  When you see the blue Tiffany box, know your time is up with the playboy.  Until he meets Billie.  After one disasterous date he finds himself wanting to make a better impression on Billie.  With a slow start the couple comes together in mutual respect and mutual lust.  Jason can no longer hold onto the bachelor for life banner, but when a past statement comes to light, will he be able to win Billie back?

Schuster has written a sweet love story with just enough heat to keep you tingly all over.  The couple, although, different had enough in common to make their relationship work.  Good pacing and delightful best describes this romance. 

 
Submitted by Cashana
05/22/08