(The Bennett Family #1)
by Layla Hagen
Narrated by Aiden Snow and Kasha Kensington
Blurb:
Sebastian Bennett is a determined man. It's the secret behind the business empire he built from scratch. Under his rule, Bennett Enterprises dominates the jewelry industry. Despite being ruthless in his work, family comes first for Sebastian, and he'd do anything for his parents and eight siblings - even if they drive him crazy sometimes...like when they keep nagging him to get married already.
Sebastian doesn't believe in love, until he brings in external marketing consultant Ava to oversee the next collection launch. She's beautiful, funny, and just as stubborn as he is. Not only is he obsessed with her delicious curves, but he also finds himself willing to do anything to make her smile.
Ava Lindt has one job to do at Bennett Enterprises: make the next collection launch unforgettable. Daydreaming about the hot CEO is definitely not on her to-do list. Besides, the consultancy she works for has a strict policy - no fraternizing with clients. She won't risk her job. But soon their sizzling chemistry spirals into a deep connection that takes both of them by surprise....
Contains mature themes.
Available for purchase at
Viviana's Review:
This is a "new to me" author and it includes a narrator that I have yet to listen to so I was excited about the prospect of listening and reviewing. I was intrigued about Sebastian based on the blurb and wondered how things would play out as this trope is one used often in Contemporary Romance.
Sebastian had a lot sweet, cute moments and others where he was trying too hard. Also, it seems like the author was trying to make him a Dom with moments of placing "commands" on Ava but its just wrong timing causing it not to work. It also doesn't help that the dialogue between them comes across awkward.
Sebastian had a lot sweet, cute moments and others where he was trying too hard. Also, it seems like the author was trying to make him a Dom with moments of placing "commands" on Ava but its just wrong timing causing it not to work. It also doesn't help that the dialogue between them comes across awkward.
I really enjoyed the family dynamics and I wish that fun bantering and easy conversation was also used with Ava & Sebastian.
For a man who 'doesn't believe in love', he sure does pursues Ava and makes it clear this isn't just a hookup or just about the sex. Oh and this was within minutes of meeting her. This is a classic case of "Insta Love" or "Lust" to be honest. If this was a relationship that developed more 'naturally' meaning they get to actually know each other vs. again, insta love/lust, it would have made for a much better story.
There are several times that the dialogue between Ava and Sebastian seemed forced or as if they were trying WAY too hard to be "sexy" or "funny". Many times the sexy talk was... was... well, awkward. There are also moments where the dialogue is very juvenile for two individuals who are in their thirties.
Then there were moments where Ava's internal monologue just went on and on and on and on. Similar to her thoughts on "how sexy", "how irresistible", "how mouth watering", you get it, right. I get being into the guy, but we've heard it enough throughout the entire story.
There are several times that the dialogue between Ava and Sebastian seemed forced or as if they were trying WAY too hard to be "sexy" or "funny". Many times the sexy talk was... was... well, awkward. There are also moments where the dialogue is very juvenile for two individuals who are in their thirties.
Then there were moments where Ava's internal monologue just went on and on and on and on. Similar to her thoughts on "how sexy", "how irresistible", "how mouth watering", you get it, right. I get being into the guy, but we've heard it enough throughout the entire story.
Narrator Review:
So this was the first time I listen to Aiden's narration and I'm wondering why I haven't listened to him before! I really liked his performance! He has a great voice that is a rich baritone and I know now why listeners rave about his performance! His voice range is great which fits perfectly for any genre within the romance umbrella!
Kasha also does a really good job with her performance, providing each character with their own unique tones and voices making it easy for the listeners to tell the characters apart.
Overall, this story had such potential and I'm sadden that it didn't live up to the hype. I will say that I really liked the siblings and their dynamic enough to make me curious about their HEA. With so many books on my TBR though, I'm not sure if I'd give this series another chance, but I may be open to it.
Overall, this story had such potential and I'm sadden that it didn't live up to the hype. I will say that I really liked the siblings and their dynamic enough to make me curious about their HEA. With so many books on my TBR though, I'm not sure if I'd give this series another chance, but I may be open to it.
Rating: 2 Stars - It was ok!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
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