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The Heirs #2
The Forgotten One
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Catherine Bybee spins a dazzling tale of long-lost relatives, overnight riches, and unexpected romance in the dramatic second book of The Heirs series.
Sarah McNeilly is a rare find in the tabloid industry. She won’t ignite gossip. She finds the truth. And for once, that’s what her boss wants. With her job on the line, Sarah’s latest assignment is to identify the elusive “Maximillian Smith,� unearth his connection to the billionaire Stone family, and dig up some dirt.
Yesterday Max was an ordinary workingman, concerned with little more than the price of gas. Now he suddenly has a family, jaw-dropping wealth, and an avid (if clumsy) reporter on his trail. With the press threatening to destroy his new life, he needs to release his real story strategically, and Sarah is the key—not to mention an adorable yet invaluable resource for finding his mother.
As Max and Sarah team up to peel back the ugly layers of Max’s past, they stumble heart-first into their fiery attraction. But when their research threatens their newly built trust, it’s their future that is on the line.
Sarah McNeilly is a rare find in the tabloid industry. She won’t ignite gossip. She finds the truth. And for once, that’s what her boss wants. With her job on the line, Sarah’s latest assignment is to identify the elusive “Maximillian Smith,� unearth his connection to the billionaire Stone family, and dig up some dirt.
Yesterday Max was an ordinary workingman, concerned with little more than the price of gas. Now he suddenly has a family, jaw-dropping wealth, and an avid (if clumsy) reporter on his trail. With the press threatening to destroy his new life, he needs to release his real story strategically, and Sarah is the key—not to mention an adorable yet invaluable resource for finding his mother.
As Max and Sarah team up to peel back the ugly layers of Max’s past, they stumble heart-first into their fiery attraction. But when their research threatens their newly built trust, it’s their future that is on the line.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2024
2,141 people are currently reading
4,716 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bybee
60books20.8kfollowersNew York Times Bestselling Author
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 416 reviews
December 10, 2024
4 stars! ✨ Okay, The Forgotten One was a fun ride, but I have to admit, I was expecting a bit more with all the buzz I had heard. 😅 That being said, it was still a solid read, and I'm already counting down the days until the next book! Big thanks to Montlake & NetGalley for the ARC! 💕
� Tropes & Themes �
� Journalist/Celebrity Romance 📸
� Unexpected Wealth 💰
� Grumpy Billionaire Hero with a Rough Past 💪
� Heartfelt Family Dynamics 💕
� Hidden Family Secrets 🤫
Now, let’s talk about Max Smith—this guy is a gem! 🙌 He starts off as a hardworking, no-nonsense construction worker, and BOOM, suddenly he's thrust into the billionaire life. It’s such a wild ride! Max had a tough childhood—abandoned and in foster care—but now he’s trying to navigate his newfound wealth, a family he never knew existed, and the adorable reporter Sarah who’s trying to uncover his past.
And speaking of Sarah, I actually liked her character! She’s a journalist with serious integrity who, despite trying to do her job, ends up getting caught up in Max’s chaotic world and� well, falling for him (because duh, it’s a romance, right?). 💁♀�
I do wish there was a bit more chemistry between Max and Sarah, though. Don’t get me wrong, I get why they were drawn to each other, but I was hoping for that spark that makes you go wow 😍. Still, the rest of the book was fun! Max trying to adjust to his new billionaire life, with Sarah helping him navigate it, gave me all the family feels that I love. The Stone siblings� dynamic? Chef’s kiss 😘 I’m so ready for more of them!
📌 Content Warnings (CW):
- Foster care system issues
- Parental abandonment
If you’re into billionaire stories with a good dose of family drama, heartfelt moments, and a touch of romantic tension, this is definitely for you! 🥰 Bring on book 3�’s story, here we come! 💥
� Tropes & Themes �
� Journalist/Celebrity Romance 📸
� Unexpected Wealth 💰
� Grumpy Billionaire Hero with a Rough Past 💪
� Heartfelt Family Dynamics 💕
� Hidden Family Secrets 🤫
Now, let’s talk about Max Smith—this guy is a gem! 🙌 He starts off as a hardworking, no-nonsense construction worker, and BOOM, suddenly he's thrust into the billionaire life. It’s such a wild ride! Max had a tough childhood—abandoned and in foster care—but now he’s trying to navigate his newfound wealth, a family he never knew existed, and the adorable reporter Sarah who’s trying to uncover his past.
And speaking of Sarah, I actually liked her character! She’s a journalist with serious integrity who, despite trying to do her job, ends up getting caught up in Max’s chaotic world and� well, falling for him (because duh, it’s a romance, right?). 💁♀�
I do wish there was a bit more chemistry between Max and Sarah, though. Don’t get me wrong, I get why they were drawn to each other, but I was hoping for that spark that makes you go wow 😍. Still, the rest of the book was fun! Max trying to adjust to his new billionaire life, with Sarah helping him navigate it, gave me all the family feels that I love. The Stone siblings� dynamic? Chef’s kiss 😘 I’m so ready for more of them!
📌 Content Warnings (CW):
- Foster care system issues
- Parental abandonment
If you’re into billionaire stories with a good dose of family drama, heartfelt moments, and a touch of romantic tension, this is definitely for you! 🥰 Bring on book 3�’s story, here we come! 💥
October 28, 2024
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THE FORGOTTEN ONE (The Heirs Book #2) by Catherine Bybee is a wonderfully charming and heartwarming second book in The Heirs series. This book features the discovery of the missing brother, Maximillian, and his romance with the tabloid writer who will only print the truth. While this book is easily read as a standalone with Ms. Bybee giving enough backstory to still understand the three siblings� dynamics, I highly recommend reading book one, All Our Tomorrows, because it is a great read also.
Maximillian Smith is a blue-collar worker who lives day-to-day and keeps to himself. Then he suddenly has wealth beyond his imagination and siblings he knew nothing about. He also has a red-headed tabloid reporter on his tail.
Sarah McNeilly has dreams of working for a national news organization, but she needs experience and ends up working for a tabloid. She is having trouble though because she refuses to lie or exaggerate in her articles. When her boss gets a tip about a big story involving a deceased billionaire hotel mogul and a Max Smith, Sarah is assigned to find the scoop before anyone else.
When she literally runs into Max outside the family mansion compound, Max decides he just may be able to use this adorable writer to not only strategically release his real-life story, but to also help him discover the location of the mother that abandoned him to the foster care system. As they investigate together, the chemical attraction builds, but trust comes hard to Max.
I loved this story so much! Max and Sarah are perfect together. I was emotionally involved from Chapter One and their romance felt realistic and it was just plain fun. The banter between them had me laughing out loud at times. There are also times that I teared up and felt pulled into the difficult emotions of the abandoned child Max was and his shutting off his emotions as a way to deal with his life, and yet he was still a caring person. It was great getting caught up with Max’s siblings and the other characters from the first book. Ms. Bybee’s books always pull me in from beginning to end and she has become an auto-buy for me. I could not put this book down and I cannot wait for the next!
I highly recommend this emotionally satisfying and heartwarming contemporary romance!
THE FORGOTTEN ONE (The Heirs Book #2) by Catherine Bybee is a wonderfully charming and heartwarming second book in The Heirs series. This book features the discovery of the missing brother, Maximillian, and his romance with the tabloid writer who will only print the truth. While this book is easily read as a standalone with Ms. Bybee giving enough backstory to still understand the three siblings� dynamics, I highly recommend reading book one, All Our Tomorrows, because it is a great read also.
Maximillian Smith is a blue-collar worker who lives day-to-day and keeps to himself. Then he suddenly has wealth beyond his imagination and siblings he knew nothing about. He also has a red-headed tabloid reporter on his tail.
Sarah McNeilly has dreams of working for a national news organization, but she needs experience and ends up working for a tabloid. She is having trouble though because she refuses to lie or exaggerate in her articles. When her boss gets a tip about a big story involving a deceased billionaire hotel mogul and a Max Smith, Sarah is assigned to find the scoop before anyone else.
When she literally runs into Max outside the family mansion compound, Max decides he just may be able to use this adorable writer to not only strategically release his real-life story, but to also help him discover the location of the mother that abandoned him to the foster care system. As they investigate together, the chemical attraction builds, but trust comes hard to Max.
I loved this story so much! Max and Sarah are perfect together. I was emotionally involved from Chapter One and their romance felt realistic and it was just plain fun. The banter between them had me laughing out loud at times. There are also times that I teared up and felt pulled into the difficult emotions of the abandoned child Max was and his shutting off his emotions as a way to deal with his life, and yet he was still a caring person. It was great getting caught up with Max’s siblings and the other characters from the first book. Ms. Bybee’s books always pull me in from beginning to end and she has become an auto-buy for me. I could not put this book down and I cannot wait for the next!
I highly recommend this emotionally satisfying and heartwarming contemporary romance!
October 10, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Forgotten One, by Catherine Bybee, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the second book in The Heirs Series. Sarah McNally works for the tabloids, but has morals. I found this book to be ok, wasn't the best wasn't the worst.
September 25, 2024
I have to say it took me a few chapters to really get back into the story since it has been quite a while, not including how many books I’ve read in between these two stories. So I did lose track in terms of what was going on at the end of the last book. Thankfully, the author also included enough hints and tips to keep that flow between the books going.
What I enjoyed so much about this particular story was the great character, Max, and the way he interacted with other people—especially his love interest.
He was so sweet and charming. A little bit grumpy but a kind, hard-working person. It was really refreshing to see him develop and grow in this story.
With the addition of a “brand new family�, some of his interactions with other characters could’ve been negative. However, the author kept him lighthearted and a sweetheart. There were times that he was wary and untrusting, but that’s to be expected.
Another great part of the story is the interaction between his new family members and his love interest. It was heartwarming to see him grow and it just made for an awesome story.
I love this series so much. I could keep gushing all day. Bybee writes with style and magic weaving through her words. You become one with the story and you won’t forget it.
If you’ve never read this author before, one, what are you waiting for? And two, start with this series. It’s a little fun, a little weird, and wacky because who inherits millions without any knowledge? But also you get to see the characters grow.
The Forgotten One is definitely a five-star read for me and I truly cannot wait to read the next installment.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review -
What I enjoyed so much about this particular story was the great character, Max, and the way he interacted with other people—especially his love interest.
He was so sweet and charming. A little bit grumpy but a kind, hard-working person. It was really refreshing to see him develop and grow in this story.
With the addition of a “brand new family�, some of his interactions with other characters could’ve been negative. However, the author kept him lighthearted and a sweetheart. There were times that he was wary and untrusting, but that’s to be expected.
Another great part of the story is the interaction between his new family members and his love interest. It was heartwarming to see him grow and it just made for an awesome story.
I love this series so much. I could keep gushing all day. Bybee writes with style and magic weaving through her words. You become one with the story and you won’t forget it.
If you’ve never read this author before, one, what are you waiting for? And two, start with this series. It’s a little fun, a little weird, and wacky because who inherits millions without any knowledge? But also you get to see the characters grow.
The Forgotten One is definitely a five-star read for me and I truly cannot wait to read the next installment.
~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review -
March 13, 2025
When three strangers approach Maximillian Smith at his home to tell him that he has inherited a fortune from the father he never knew, Max doesn't believe them. Someone must be playing an elaborate joke. Max grew up in the foster system and now works construction. He is used to worrying about paying his rent on time and making the groceries stretch until his next paycheck. The strangers who claim to be his family show Max DNA proof of his identity. Now he needs keep a low profile until his identity can be released to the press. That is easier said than done when a tabloid reporter shows up at the family home.
Sarah McNeilly has been ordered by her boss to find out who Max Smith is and why he is staying at the home of the late billionaire Aaron Stone. She claims that she only prints the truth and doesn't make up lies just to sell papers. Max and his new siblings have to put their trust in Sarah to let them control when the information about Max's past is released, and also help Max find the mother who dumped him into the foster care system when he was a child.
This is book two in The Heirs series. I liked the characters in this story. Max has a hard time trusting people, but he seemed to trust Sarah quickly after meeting her. It took him a little longer to trust his half-siblings. I guess I would have a hard time believing that I had become a billionaire overnight.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Meg Sylvan. She does a terrific job giving each character a unique voice. My rating: 4 Stars.
Sarah McNeilly has been ordered by her boss to find out who Max Smith is and why he is staying at the home of the late billionaire Aaron Stone. She claims that she only prints the truth and doesn't make up lies just to sell papers. Max and his new siblings have to put their trust in Sarah to let them control when the information about Max's past is released, and also help Max find the mother who dumped him into the foster care system when he was a child.
This is book two in The Heirs series. I liked the characters in this story. Max has a hard time trusting people, but he seemed to trust Sarah quickly after meeting her. It took him a little longer to trust his half-siblings. I guess I would have a hard time believing that I had become a billionaire overnight.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Meg Sylvan. She does a terrific job giving each character a unique voice. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 27, 2024
Max's life has taken a direction he never saw coming. Sarah needs to find out everything their us to know about Max. I liked this book and am looking forward to her next one.
November 26, 2024
I love this family and this series! Ms. Bybee always finds fresh and fabulous ways to tell a story. So, even if the plot is about another douchebag billionaire who ignored his children in life but left them all his wealth in death, one is still guaranteed there will be twists and turns that absolutely make the story unique and addicting!
I especially love the characters in this series. They are good, hard-working people without an ounce of entitlement, but hold a whole world’s worth of heart. And, while each suddenly finds they are now a billionaire and that sounds amazing, They also discover the reality of it all is not as fabulous, and a whole lot more challenging than it seems. This is especially true of Max (MMC) who never even knew said douchebag father and whose mother also abandoned him and left him to grow up in the foster care system, bouncing from group home to group home until he became a heavy construction worker as an adult. He is a character that is real and 100% relatable in his struggle and his challenges.
The only downside for me in this specific story is in the romance. I know it could be just a personal thing, but I had a hard time connecting with Max and Sarah as a romantic couple. I just never felt any real chemistry between them, so could never truly believe in their love. Luckily the overall yumminess of every single other thing in this book is everything a contemporary reader will adore!!
P.S. The absolute clincher in this book is actually in the author’s note at the beginning. Had me in tears before the story even started!
I especially love the characters in this series. They are good, hard-working people without an ounce of entitlement, but hold a whole world’s worth of heart. And, while each suddenly finds they are now a billionaire and that sounds amazing, They also discover the reality of it all is not as fabulous, and a whole lot more challenging than it seems. This is especially true of Max (MMC) who never even knew said douchebag father and whose mother also abandoned him and left him to grow up in the foster care system, bouncing from group home to group home until he became a heavy construction worker as an adult. He is a character that is real and 100% relatable in his struggle and his challenges.
The only downside for me in this specific story is in the romance. I know it could be just a personal thing, but I had a hard time connecting with Max and Sarah as a romantic couple. I just never felt any real chemistry between them, so could never truly believe in their love. Luckily the overall yumminess of every single other thing in this book is everything a contemporary reader will adore!!
P.S. The absolute clincher in this book is actually in the author’s note at the beginning. Had me in tears before the story even started!
November 12, 2024
4.5/5 stars
This is the second book in The Heirs series. This is Max's book.
I loved book one in this series (All Our Tomorrows). This one continues right where that book left off. Even though this book has different narrators I would highly recommend reading in order as it's a continuing story.
In the first book siblings Chase and Alex's billionaire father died and left them everything. They were also shocked to find out that they had a brother, Max.
The Forgotten One is Max's story. It has both romance and mystery. I loved it even more than the first book. These characters are addictive. And I just love this family so much.
The book alternates between the male and female POVs. The hero is Max. I am absolutely loving getting to know him. And I am really invested in this relationship with his family.
Sarah is the heroine. She writes for a tabloid magazine. But she only writes the truth. She is asked to find Maximillian Smith. I adored Sarah and I really liked how the author wrote Sarah and Max's beginning.
This is a billionaire series that is very different from what I was expecting. There is romance. But that's not the only focus and I absolutely love that about this series. Also even though this is Max's story Chase, Alex and Piper are in this book a lot. I was really hoping that this would be the case. This story flowed seamlessly from the first book. And hopefully the next book will be the same.
Overall the romance was phenomenal, the mystery was so great and the family ties were incredible. I absolutely cannot wait to read book 3. This series is epic and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to Montlake Romance and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
This is the second book in The Heirs series. This is Max's book.
I loved book one in this series (All Our Tomorrows). This one continues right where that book left off. Even though this book has different narrators I would highly recommend reading in order as it's a continuing story.
In the first book siblings Chase and Alex's billionaire father died and left them everything. They were also shocked to find out that they had a brother, Max.
The Forgotten One is Max's story. It has both romance and mystery. I loved it even more than the first book. These characters are addictive. And I just love this family so much.
The book alternates between the male and female POVs. The hero is Max. I am absolutely loving getting to know him. And I am really invested in this relationship with his family.
Sarah is the heroine. She writes for a tabloid magazine. But she only writes the truth. She is asked to find Maximillian Smith. I adored Sarah and I really liked how the author wrote Sarah and Max's beginning.
This is a billionaire series that is very different from what I was expecting. There is romance. But that's not the only focus and I absolutely love that about this series. Also even though this is Max's story Chase, Alex and Piper are in this book a lot. I was really hoping that this would be the case. This story flowed seamlessly from the first book. And hopefully the next book will be the same.
Overall the romance was phenomenal, the mystery was so great and the family ties were incredible. I absolutely cannot wait to read book 3. This series is epic and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to Montlake Romance and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
December 30, 2024
The Forgotten One is the second book in "The Heirs" trilogy. And what a continuation of the story it was!
Max was abandoned by his mother and never knew his father. He was brought up in the foster care system and then had a blue collar job that helped him to get by.
Approached by two strangers claiming to be his siblings Max discovers he was mentioned in his father's will.
Sarah, a tabloid reporter, was tasked with the job of uncovering the truth about Max. When they meet there is an instant attraction and the sparks begin to fly. He agrees to give her exclusive stories and she helps him to navigate his relationship with his new family.
There is so much more to this story including bringing to light the broken foster care system, twists and turns and a feel good romance.
Catherine Bybee is a great storyteller and gives us a captivating read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Max was abandoned by his mother and never knew his father. He was brought up in the foster care system and then had a blue collar job that helped him to get by.
Approached by two strangers claiming to be his siblings Max discovers he was mentioned in his father's will.
Sarah, a tabloid reporter, was tasked with the job of uncovering the truth about Max. When they meet there is an instant attraction and the sparks begin to fly. He agrees to give her exclusive stories and she helps him to navigate his relationship with his new family.
There is so much more to this story including bringing to light the broken foster care system, twists and turns and a feel good romance.
Catherine Bybee is a great storyteller and gives us a captivating read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
December 29, 2024
2.5/5 ⭐️ Found Family, Billionaire, Grumpy Sunshine Romance. Some TW of foster care - group home happenings.
Max is a regular hard working, blue collar guy. Living paycheck to paycheck. Abandoned by his mother to the system when he was two, and no father on his birth certificate, he spent years bouncing around and never finding a true home or family. Until one day, he is approached by people claiming to be the children of his biological father. His step siblings claim their father passed away and left him in the will to inherit. So now this billionaire lifestyle and family are thrown into Max’s life. On the other side, Sarah is a reporter for a tabloid who needs a big story to save her job. Proud to always have her stories tell the truth, she is pressured to push and investigate into Maxs situation and the secrecy. As they get closer, Max believes he’s found someone who truly understands him - but will his trust issues let him open up in return?
I found this a little lack lustre for me. Not a lot of real romance, I feel the story really centered on Max’s past and upbringing. I feel like the chemistry was kind of iffy. Just not exactly my cup of tea.
Max is a regular hard working, blue collar guy. Living paycheck to paycheck. Abandoned by his mother to the system when he was two, and no father on his birth certificate, he spent years bouncing around and never finding a true home or family. Until one day, he is approached by people claiming to be the children of his biological father. His step siblings claim their father passed away and left him in the will to inherit. So now this billionaire lifestyle and family are thrown into Max’s life. On the other side, Sarah is a reporter for a tabloid who needs a big story to save her job. Proud to always have her stories tell the truth, she is pressured to push and investigate into Maxs situation and the secrecy. As they get closer, Max believes he’s found someone who truly understands him - but will his trust issues let him open up in return?
I found this a little lack lustre for me. Not a lot of real romance, I feel the story really centered on Max’s past and upbringing. I feel like the chemistry was kind of iffy. Just not exactly my cup of tea.
September 22, 2024
The Heirs is becoming my new favorite series by Catherine Bybee. Just like the first book, this one held me captive from start to finish. I stayed up way too late reading and immediately finished the book the next morning. I love these characters. I love reading the progression of their relationships as they find out about a half sibling they knew nothing about. I loved Max's story. His past really touched my heart and after reading about the author's experience with the 7 year old kid in the front of the book, it really made you look at Max differently as you read about his life. I rooted for him. I wanted him to learn to love and let people in. This is a family I would have loved to have known and become a part of. What more can you ask from a book? I'm even more excited for Alex's book next!
November 12, 2024
Sarah + Max
We remember the first book... Alex and Chase inherited their dad's multibillion dollar business and to not lose their majority against the company's board, they had to find their half brother.
And this is his story now.
Max is working for a concrete company and money is pretty tight.
And then one day these people are standing in front of his house telling him they're his long lost siblings. Yeah, right!?
And then there's Sarah. Her last chance at her tabloid magazine job is to find out who this Max guy is to the Stone family.
Too bad Max immediately realizes that she's a reporter.
Let the fun times begin...
══════════════════
The second book in this adorable series and it was just as cute as the first one!
Max is so sweet and grumpy and he can't really believe that this is happening to him. He doesn't trust everything yet. And he's a bit scared to hope to finally have a family - siblings. So adorable. He had a pretty rough childhood. His mom left him when he was only two and now he wants to find her to find out ... why? Why wasn't he lovable enough?
Ugh. Poor guy.
I really enjoyed reading this. It was so sweet and funny and cute and heartbreaking and ... just great. I loved Max and Sarah so much and we see a lot of the people from the first book too. I so want to see this on TV one day. Poor orphan Max becoming a billionaire with a family overnight is just so adorable!
So many sweet moments; THE FORGOTTEN ONE was such a funny + cute + heartbreaking + just beautiful romance - I loved it! Can't wait to get Alex's story next!
If you can't click the buy-links from your phone -
click �
💜💜
November 13, 2024
What we have is a Romance with a side of corporate intrigue and the homecoming of a man who didn't know he had a family. The problems with the foster care system in this country are highlighted in this story. It tugs at your heart and the author was up front in the forward as to why this issue is important to her. The romance between Sarah and Max is wonderful. The Stone family is fantastic. With a touch of mystery/suspense, the plot came together and worked really well. Next up is Alex's book and I look forward to seeing some corporate nasties get want they deserve.
Sarah McNeilly is working for a tabloid style magazine, but her values prevent her from writing anything that isn't true. Her boss hands her a tip and tells her he wants the dirt or don't bother coming back. What Sarah finds is a regular guy who is thrown into a life altering situation. As Sarah gets to know Max, she finds she can't do anything that will bring more grief to his life.
Maximillian Smith was abandoned by his mother at the age of two. The older woman she left him with loved him but couldn't care for an active toddler, so she surrendered him to the state where he grew up in the system never spending long in any one group or foster home. The man he became is hardworking, fair and generous, if more than a little reluctant to revel his true self.
When the Stone siblings discover him, they have a hard time convincing him that he is their half-brother. One day he is working construction and the next he is a multi-billionaire. Cue to mind blown. The news will be explosive and with a cute little reporter already sniffing around the story will be out sooner than later. For some reason Max trusts Sarah and they work with her to release his story and control the narrative. Not exactly what her boss had in mind, but Sarah can work with that.
Sarah never expected to fall for billionaire Max and really didn't want the red-hot attraction that flares between them. But the vultures are circling and there are things in Max's past that no one wants reveled, things that could harm Stone Enterprises. When Sarah's research falls into the wrong hands, all bets are off and maybe her new relationship too.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Sarah McNeilly is working for a tabloid style magazine, but her values prevent her from writing anything that isn't true. Her boss hands her a tip and tells her he wants the dirt or don't bother coming back. What Sarah finds is a regular guy who is thrown into a life altering situation. As Sarah gets to know Max, she finds she can't do anything that will bring more grief to his life.
Maximillian Smith was abandoned by his mother at the age of two. The older woman she left him with loved him but couldn't care for an active toddler, so she surrendered him to the state where he grew up in the system never spending long in any one group or foster home. The man he became is hardworking, fair and generous, if more than a little reluctant to revel his true self.
When the Stone siblings discover him, they have a hard time convincing him that he is their half-brother. One day he is working construction and the next he is a multi-billionaire. Cue to mind blown. The news will be explosive and with a cute little reporter already sniffing around the story will be out sooner than later. For some reason Max trusts Sarah and they work with her to release his story and control the narrative. Not exactly what her boss had in mind, but Sarah can work with that.
Sarah never expected to fall for billionaire Max and really didn't want the red-hot attraction that flares between them. But the vultures are circling and there are things in Max's past that no one wants reveled, things that could harm Stone Enterprises. When Sarah's research falls into the wrong hands, all bets are off and maybe her new relationship too.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
November 12, 2024
I will be the first to tell you, I do not like billionaire romances, but The Heirs series has proven that wrong. Why? Because Chase, Alex and now Max have proven me wrong. I love these down-to-earth men and women and the story of how they became billionaires when their father died.
The overall story arc regarding the stipulations in their father’s will and the ruthless people surrounding them demands that the stories be read in the order of their release. However, each book features one couple’s romance, so if spoilers don’t bother you, have it. I am confident you’ll go back for the others…lol
Max was abandoned by his mother and grew up in the system, but that hasn’t stopped him from carving a life out for himself. When Chase and Alex show up at his door he doesn’t want what they are selling, but an odd gift and the chance to find his birth mother have him consenting to a DNA test.
In the meantime, Sarah McNeilly, a journalist known for her truthful posts at the tabloid who employs her, demands she find the dirt on Chase, Max and Alex. Who is Max and why is he spending time with the Stones? The tale hooked me from the start and enjoyed the chemistry between Max and Sarah. I was also delighted to spend more time with Alex, Chase and Piper, along with their friends.
A little suspense, a little drama, and family made this tale heartwarming. The characters feel genuine and I became caught up in their stories.
Fans of romance, siblings, and feel good romances will want to grab The Forgotten One and the first book, All Our Tomorrows; Stone’s story. The third book, No More Yesterdays is ’s story and will release in June 2025.
The overall story arc regarding the stipulations in their father’s will and the ruthless people surrounding them demands that the stories be read in the order of their release. However, each book features one couple’s romance, so if spoilers don’t bother you, have it. I am confident you’ll go back for the others…lol
Max was abandoned by his mother and grew up in the system, but that hasn’t stopped him from carving a life out for himself. When Chase and Alex show up at his door he doesn’t want what they are selling, but an odd gift and the chance to find his birth mother have him consenting to a DNA test.
In the meantime, Sarah McNeilly, a journalist known for her truthful posts at the tabloid who employs her, demands she find the dirt on Chase, Max and Alex. Who is Max and why is he spending time with the Stones? The tale hooked me from the start and enjoyed the chemistry between Max and Sarah. I was also delighted to spend more time with Alex, Chase and Piper, along with their friends.
A little suspense, a little drama, and family made this tale heartwarming. The characters feel genuine and I became caught up in their stories.
Fans of romance, siblings, and feel good romances will want to grab The Forgotten One and the first book, All Our Tomorrows; Stone’s story. The third book, No More Yesterdays is ’s story and will release in June 2025.
November 15, 2024
4.5 Stars
Max Smith finds out that he’s the illegitimate son of billionaire Alex Stone, who’s died and left him part heir to his empire. This comes as a shock since he was told his parents were dead and he was shuffled from one foster home to another. He’s also gained two half-siblings. There’s already some strife within the family’s corporation, and so they want to control how the news is released to the board, and the public. This is where reporter Sarah McNeilly comes in.
Sarah and Max form a connection right away even though she was sent to dig up dirt on him. It’s quickly apparent that Sarah is a principled journalist. Sarah also helps Max find information on his mother, a difficult journey for Max.
I was thrilled that Max and his siblings found each other! Max needed someone in his corner, never having had a stable family in the past. Max and Sarah had instant chemistry, but their relationship felt like it progressed naturally and believably. No ridiculous, contrived third act breakup!
The Forgotten One was an engrossing romance, but also a feel-good story with Max initially leading a lonely, monotonous existence and having all that change into a life full of love, prosperity and family! It put a warm glow in my heart.
The author’s note touched on her own personal experiences with foster care. It was emotional and made the story even more moving!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Max Smith finds out that he’s the illegitimate son of billionaire Alex Stone, who’s died and left him part heir to his empire. This comes as a shock since he was told his parents were dead and he was shuffled from one foster home to another. He’s also gained two half-siblings. There’s already some strife within the family’s corporation, and so they want to control how the news is released to the board, and the public. This is where reporter Sarah McNeilly comes in.
Sarah and Max form a connection right away even though she was sent to dig up dirt on him. It’s quickly apparent that Sarah is a principled journalist. Sarah also helps Max find information on his mother, a difficult journey for Max.
I was thrilled that Max and his siblings found each other! Max needed someone in his corner, never having had a stable family in the past. Max and Sarah had instant chemistry, but their relationship felt like it progressed naturally and believably. No ridiculous, contrived third act breakup!
The Forgotten One was an engrossing romance, but also a feel-good story with Max initially leading a lonely, monotonous existence and having all that change into a life full of love, prosperity and family! It put a warm glow in my heart.
The author’s note touched on her own personal experiences with foster care. It was emotional and made the story even more moving!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 17, 2024
This is the second book in this surprise billionaire series and I find it just as addictive as many of Bybee's other series. I fully admit to some not necessarily super modern content, but this is one of my frothy comfort series that I overlook a lot in for the ability to just sink in and get lost.
Source: purchased Kindle ebook
Source: purchased Kindle ebook
September 15, 2024
Catherine Bybee is a storyteller extraordinaire. I was hooked from the first page and had a hard time putting this book down! This is a story of Max, raised in the system of foster care and group homes, one of the “forgotten ones� who is suddenly thrust into a family and wealth, and of Sarah, a tabloid reporter who refuses to write anything that isn’t true. With Sarah’s help, he learns to navigate the press, find answers, opens himself to trust, and becomes part of a family. It’s an emotional story, a heartbreaking and heartwarming tale, but also an entertaining and uplifting story of this growing family finding their way in a world of privilege, and the responsibilities and perks that come with it. It is a story that will stay with me. I loved the first book in the series, loved this one, and now will impatiently wait for ’s story.
November 12, 2024
I’m a huge fan of Catherine Bybee’s romances, forever addicted to the timeless romanticism of her love stories, the superb writing, and the incredible character development, so any new book of hers automatically jumps to the top of my reading list. This series centres around the Stone siblings whose estranged father suddenly dies, leaving his multibillion-dollar business to them. But the father’s will also reveals a half brother they didn’t know existed, and in order to fully come into possession of their inheritance, they must find him. This book is the lost brother’s story—the tale of a blue-collar worker who becomes a billionaire overnight. But before his existence is even made public, a tabloid reporter starts snooping around him, looking for a connection between him and the Stone family, only to end up helping him navigate his newly found reality. A comfort read.
January 12, 2025
4.5 stars. I'm REALLY enjoying this series. Picking right up from book 1 as the story continues. Max, the unknown brother, is found. This was truly Max's book. The slow burn romance was just a side bonus. There's also a little mystery and a lot of heart grabbing moments with all the overwhelming emotions Max has to process. From being left behind to found, just getting by to overnight mega weath and a having a family he never thought he'd want or have. You can't help having all the feels.
The author does a terrific job of telling this family's story. Alex is up next, and I'm counting the days to book 3's release.
The author does a terrific job of telling this family's story. Alex is up next, and I'm counting the days to book 3's release.
October 30, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley, Catherine Bybee and Montlake for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3,5 � - The second book in the Heirs series, it can be read as a standalone alone but I would recommend reading the first book.
This book follows Max, an orphan who finds out he's the son of a late billionaire - and Sarah, a tabloid reporter who must write the latest scoop on the new son of the late billionaire.
Overall this is a light, romantic read with likeable characters. I'm definitely going to check out more books of Ms. Bybee.
3,5 � - The second book in the Heirs series, it can be read as a standalone alone but I would recommend reading the first book.
This book follows Max, an orphan who finds out he's the son of a late billionaire - and Sarah, a tabloid reporter who must write the latest scoop on the new son of the late billionaire.
Overall this is a light, romantic read with likeable characters. I'm definitely going to check out more books of Ms. Bybee.
November 10, 2024
I was so excited to get an ARC of The Forgotten One because I really wanted to learn more about Chase and ’s brother Max after reading All Our Tomorrows earlier this year. I definitely wasn’t disappointed! Max and Sarah’s story is fantastic, and their love story made me feel all the feels!
Max has a compelling backstory, and he is totally shocked when he learns who his father was and what he inherited. It was interesting to see Max adjust to this new life while still staying true to himself and his values. He definitely shakes things up a bit in the business world and in the world of his new family.
Something I really love about this series is the strong family vibes, and I wasn’t surprised to see Chase and Alex welcome Max into their fold. They are all such warm and honorable people � very different from many of the people, especially in their business, around them. While Chase and Alex always had each other and a dedicated mother on their side, Max had no one. Raised in foster and group homes, Max is slow to trust, and he doesn’t really let people get too close. Needless to say, these massive changes in his life and the appearance of a newfound family are completely life-changing. Add to that a genuine and kind reporter, and Max is in way over his head.
Sarah and Max have such a wonderful love story. A reporter assigned to learn everything she can about Max and his connection to the Stone family, Sarah is a tabloid journalist with integrity, and she refuses to put her name on anything but the truth, much to her boss’s dismay. She hates her job, which is a stepping stone toward her journalistic goals, but she knows she has to appease her boss. I like that she stays firm in her convictions and doesn’t let people push her around. Sarah works hard to prove her sincerity and honesty to the untrusting Max, and even though Max tries to keep his walls up, he falls hard for Sarah. They have amazing chemistry, and I rooted for them from the start.
This is a great addition to the series, and I’m so looking forward to the next book because I adore Alex and can’t wait to see her fall in love.
Max has a compelling backstory, and he is totally shocked when he learns who his father was and what he inherited. It was interesting to see Max adjust to this new life while still staying true to himself and his values. He definitely shakes things up a bit in the business world and in the world of his new family.
Something I really love about this series is the strong family vibes, and I wasn’t surprised to see Chase and Alex welcome Max into their fold. They are all such warm and honorable people � very different from many of the people, especially in their business, around them. While Chase and Alex always had each other and a dedicated mother on their side, Max had no one. Raised in foster and group homes, Max is slow to trust, and he doesn’t really let people get too close. Needless to say, these massive changes in his life and the appearance of a newfound family are completely life-changing. Add to that a genuine and kind reporter, and Max is in way over his head.
Sarah and Max have such a wonderful love story. A reporter assigned to learn everything she can about Max and his connection to the Stone family, Sarah is a tabloid journalist with integrity, and she refuses to put her name on anything but the truth, much to her boss’s dismay. She hates her job, which is a stepping stone toward her journalistic goals, but she knows she has to appease her boss. I like that she stays firm in her convictions and doesn’t let people push her around. Sarah works hard to prove her sincerity and honesty to the untrusting Max, and even though Max tries to keep his walls up, he falls hard for Sarah. They have amazing chemistry, and I rooted for them from the start.
This is a great addition to the series, and I’m so looking forward to the next book because I adore Alex and can’t wait to see her fall in love.
November 7, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from Netgalley and I'm so glad I did. I loved reading Max's story. I just love how Catherine Bybee takes a idea and runs with it. Then she creates depth with her story and characters by giving them solid backgrounds and continues to have them grow. I also love that she intertwines previous characters from her past books. It's the best because you already love the characters and you're seeing a glimpse of how much they've grown since the last time you read about them. Jack and Jesse are one of the first books I read by Catherine Bybee, "Not Quite Dating" and one of the reasons I love reading her books. Her books are instant buy for me. My favorite part was in the epilogue at the very end. It was the best! I look forward to reading Alex the story and any other books that Catherine Bybee writes.
March 15, 2025
A surprise family and a nosey reporter, what a story.
Absolutely brilliant, interesting with great characters and a fab story. Max and Sarah are perfect together. Working their way through the discovery of a billionaire family he didn’t know he had and a mother who abandoned him. 5* read.
Absolutely brilliant, interesting with great characters and a fab story. Max and Sarah are perfect together. Working their way through the discovery of a billionaire family he didn’t know he had and a mother who abandoned him. 5* read.
December 20, 2024
✅I have to say I love the book covers for The Heirs series.
Oh, my goodness�..I loved this story. I loved the first book in the series and loved this just as much.
The story is about Max�.he grew up in the foster system with no family. Then, his life is completely turned upside down when information is shared with him.
We also have a cute reporter, Sarah, who has a big heart and only wants to report the truth and only the truth.
I loved the chemistry between Max and Sarah.
I loved the supporting characters of Chase, Alex and Piper((from the first book)
I loved the found family theme.
The author shows us how growing up in foster care affects individuals.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!!!
I highly recommend reading the first book in the series. It’s a beautiful story just like this one is.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
Oh, my goodness�..I loved this story. I loved the first book in the series and loved this just as much.
The story is about Max�.he grew up in the foster system with no family. Then, his life is completely turned upside down when information is shared with him.
We also have a cute reporter, Sarah, who has a big heart and only wants to report the truth and only the truth.
I loved the chemistry between Max and Sarah.
I loved the supporting characters of Chase, Alex and Piper((from the first book)
I loved the found family theme.
The author shows us how growing up in foster care affects individuals.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!!!
I highly recommend reading the first book in the series. It’s a beautiful story just like this one is.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
January 29, 2025
Beautiful story!!!!!
March 30, 2025
Feel good book😉
November 21, 2024
Best epilogue !!!
So glad this author decided to write about Max. He was such an awesome hero, Loved him! Life could have turned out so different for him. He had it tough growing up and now his future has taken a turn for the better. Loving this series and cannot wait for another book.
So glad this author decided to write about Max. He was such an awesome hero, Loved him! Life could have turned out so different for him. He had it tough growing up and now his future has taken a turn for the better. Loving this series and cannot wait for another book.
October 3, 2024
I am completely enthralled with this series and I cannot get enough. This book and the Stone children is packed with so much love and family for Max. In the beginning it was entertaining to watch his unbelievable acceptance of what was happening plus experiencing all this new life has to offer. I loved how humble Max, Sarah, and the rest of the Stone/Morrison crew was. That's truly why I enjoy this series so much. It packs an emotional punch and will have you all in your feelings. There were moments that had me teary eyed. There was just so much love and adoration! There were twists you don't see coming. I'm extremely curious as to how the new board member will disrupt things *wink wink*. I can't wait for Alex's story with the conclusion, for her to find her person and HEA!
Arc provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Arc provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2024
~~~ I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley ~~~
Catherine Bybee is one of my favorite authors and I am loving this new "The Heirs" series. I read the first book and loved it. The Forgotten One is the second book in the series. This book is the story of Sarah and Max who develop a relationship after Sarah, a journalist is assigned to follow the new found billionaire heir Max Stone. This is a book that follows the family story of Stone Enterprises. It is full of drama and family secrets with some romance thrown in. I'm hooked and can't wait to read the next book in "The Heirs" series. Good read! Highly recommend.
Catherine Bybee is one of my favorite authors and I am loving this new "The Heirs" series. I read the first book and loved it. The Forgotten One is the second book in the series. This book is the story of Sarah and Max who develop a relationship after Sarah, a journalist is assigned to follow the new found billionaire heir Max Stone. This is a book that follows the family story of Stone Enterprises. It is full of drama and family secrets with some romance thrown in. I'm hooked and can't wait to read the next book in "The Heirs" series. Good read! Highly recommend.
November 4, 2024
Oh I fell hard and fast for Max! He brings the best of book boyfriend club here. He went from being the blue collar worker coming from foster system to being the forgotten heir of a business empire worthy of billions. His alpha personality, his rugged vibes, his sexy possessiveness and protectiveness, his broken sides..everything came together to create an irresistible and unforgettable hero. Sarah's sweet and heartfelt personality with a hidden but strong sassy side made her a perfect contradiction to and a perfect match for Max. The Forgotten One by Catherine Bybee is a beautifully written heartfelt and emotional romance that will win you easily.
Maximilian Smith thought it's a joke when his half siblings from a billionaire father appear at his humble home's doorstep. It's a mix of extremely confusing feels for him. He thought his parents are dead, he suffered through the foster system for years and he brought back himself from the edge of getting lost in the system all by his will power. The money didn't really faze him. He has this commanding presence and bossy alpha attitude that didn't depend on his bank status.
Sarah entered his life by pure fate as she was caught snooping around for her story. She may work for a tabloid but she has her own moral standard and honesty. She could have exploited the trust Max showed but she became his support system instead. Max appears to be emotionally unavailable but Sarah got under his skin and deep in his heart. It was pure chaos and mayhem with media circus and corporate games. Sarah was a place of calm and comfort in middle of this. Their chemistry was insane and Max is pretty demanding in bed too! My heart was aching for all the pain he went through and I was amazed how he still turned out to be the best man possible. I love how the family came together and healed so many wounds.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Maximilian Smith thought it's a joke when his half siblings from a billionaire father appear at his humble home's doorstep. It's a mix of extremely confusing feels for him. He thought his parents are dead, he suffered through the foster system for years and he brought back himself from the edge of getting lost in the system all by his will power. The money didn't really faze him. He has this commanding presence and bossy alpha attitude that didn't depend on his bank status.
Sarah entered his life by pure fate as she was caught snooping around for her story. She may work for a tabloid but she has her own moral standard and honesty. She could have exploited the trust Max showed but she became his support system instead. Max appears to be emotionally unavailable but Sarah got under his skin and deep in his heart. It was pure chaos and mayhem with media circus and corporate games. Sarah was a place of calm and comfort in middle of this. Their chemistry was insane and Max is pretty demanding in bed too! My heart was aching for all the pain he went through and I was amazed how he still turned out to be the best man possible. I love how the family came together and healed so many wounds.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
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