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Indecent Proposals #1
Mutually Beneficial
Please, I'll do anything.
Annalise Teague is dead broke. Her life has become a highwire act, trying to balance too many obligations to too many people. When she can’t scrape together the money for rent, she has no choice but to beg her landlord for mercy. But Jason Andreas isn’t known for his bleeding heart. Instead of mercy, he offers her a deal. She won’t owe him a penny if she gives him� herself.
She knows it’s wrong to accept� but, is it even worse if she likes it?
Just do as I tell you.
Jason has been infatuated with Annalise since the day he met her. He knows he’s too damaged and broken to ever have her heart. So when the opportunity to have just a little piece of her comes along, he’s ruthless enough to seize it. But the more he takes, the more he needs, until he realizes he’s never going to be happy with just one piece. He needs all of her—body, heart, and soul.
But can a man with too many demons ever earn the love of the angel he defiled?
Mutually Beneficial is a steamy romance about a gruff landlord with hidden depths and a struggling tenant who might not be as angelic as she seems.
Annalise Teague is dead broke. Her life has become a highwire act, trying to balance too many obligations to too many people. When she can’t scrape together the money for rent, she has no choice but to beg her landlord for mercy. But Jason Andreas isn’t known for his bleeding heart. Instead of mercy, he offers her a deal. She won’t owe him a penny if she gives him� herself.
She knows it’s wrong to accept� but, is it even worse if she likes it?
Just do as I tell you.
Jason has been infatuated with Annalise since the day he met her. He knows he’s too damaged and broken to ever have her heart. So when the opportunity to have just a little piece of her comes along, he’s ruthless enough to seize it. But the more he takes, the more he needs, until he realizes he’s never going to be happy with just one piece. He needs all of her—body, heart, and soul.
But can a man with too many demons ever earn the love of the angel he defiled?
Mutually Beneficial is a steamy romance about a gruff landlord with hidden depths and a struggling tenant who might not be as angelic as she seems.
ebook
First published January 21, 2021
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About the author
Ren Hardwick
6books33followersRen Hardwick writes sexy reverse harem romances with heart. Her alpha heroes always have a sweet core and intense devotion when it comes to protecting and loving their heroines. A total romance junkie, Ren writes harems with mutual love and affection between all the participants, and so her stories always feature both MF and MM romance. (With plans for FF in the future!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 398 reviews
August 17, 2024
5 Month for a Month Stars �
~My heart wept the day this book was removed from print.~
Would you screw your landlord for free rent because Annalise Teague just did?
“I already told you, I don’t have the money.�
His deep voice sank even lower, practically a growl. “I wasn’t talking about money. You want to work your rent off, you can do it on your knees.�
Two very different reasons for this transaction. Whilst Annalise is drowning in debt for very personal reasons, Jason Andreas has been crushing on his tenant for years. When a golden opportunity presents itself, Jason quickly forgets his morals and any good sense.
He wanted to kiss her again. He wanted to be worthy of being with her. But he’d fucked that up right out of the gate. He’d turned sex into a transaction. How was he supposed to turn it around from that?
Yet as the weeks progress, and sex has become a weekly occurrence, Annalise is seeing Jason in a whole new light. Behind the unkempt appearance, is a good man that struggles to express himself. A man she never thought she could relate to or have any feelings for. Initially sex was an arrangement until it got a whole lot personal. At no point did it cross Annalise’s mind to walk away, much to Jason’s disbelief.
She'd taken his ugly, crude proposal and turned it into a relationship. She'd taken his loneliness and shown him how to fill it.
I loved the naughty premise of Mutually Beneficial. It was extremely sexy, yet somehow tender. Jason was ex-military with a severe case of PTSD and Annalise had the burden of the world on her shoulders. They may have hooked up in an unconventional way, but there was so much more happening in the background. This author has a wonderful way with words that has you feeling so much in very little pages. Her characters come to life that you quickly forget about the skeeviness of their circumstances. Just brilliant!
~My heart wept the day this book was removed from print.~
Would you screw your landlord for free rent because Annalise Teague just did?
“I already told you, I don’t have the money.�
His deep voice sank even lower, practically a growl. “I wasn’t talking about money. You want to work your rent off, you can do it on your knees.�
Two very different reasons for this transaction. Whilst Annalise is drowning in debt for very personal reasons, Jason Andreas has been crushing on his tenant for years. When a golden opportunity presents itself, Jason quickly forgets his morals and any good sense.
He wanted to kiss her again. He wanted to be worthy of being with her. But he’d fucked that up right out of the gate. He’d turned sex into a transaction. How was he supposed to turn it around from that?
Yet as the weeks progress, and sex has become a weekly occurrence, Annalise is seeing Jason in a whole new light. Behind the unkempt appearance, is a good man that struggles to express himself. A man she never thought she could relate to or have any feelings for. Initially sex was an arrangement until it got a whole lot personal. At no point did it cross Annalise’s mind to walk away, much to Jason’s disbelief.
She'd taken his ugly, crude proposal and turned it into a relationship. She'd taken his loneliness and shown him how to fill it.
I loved the naughty premise of Mutually Beneficial. It was extremely sexy, yet somehow tender. Jason was ex-military with a severe case of PTSD and Annalise had the burden of the world on her shoulders. They may have hooked up in an unconventional way, but there was so much more happening in the background. This author has a wonderful way with words that has you feeling so much in very little pages. Her characters come to life that you quickly forget about the skeeviness of their circumstances. Just brilliant!
April 18, 2022
3.5 stars
I'm a mood reader. Apparently today's mood is: Let's fuck my landlord as payment for rent.
If you know me, you know I hate anal BUT JASON CAN HAVE MY ASS. He was the cutest, grumpiest, sasquatch comedy king. I could not find a fault w that big puppy of a man. I'm surprised to have found myself laughing several times. The couple was so adorably funny together🥺
He also has an injured knee, so every time Jason hid his unbearable pain not to worry her-
Heart strings were pulled, ripped, tied into bows... that's all I'll say.
I should feel guilty for enjoying this when some things were extremely similar to making it very sus. I'm not gonna lie, it's been a while since I read that book, but even some tiny details felt eerily similar.
I really don't want to say this book is the P word. Mainly because I'm not certain enough to throw out accusations....100% not because I'm trying to selfishly live in denial. (No fr I hear absolutely no one talking about the similarities except for Misha. I feel inadvertently gaslighted)
BUT IF IT WAS THOUGH.......
A) Miss author, you really couldn't do me a favour and conduct yourcriminal activity singular writing habits a lil more shittily, definitely not better than the original other book in question, so I could dnf and go abt my day without a care in the world?
B) You didn't see me or my rating. Leave me alone.
I'm a mood reader. Apparently today's mood is: Let's fuck my landlord as payment for rent.
“Please , Jason. I’ll do anything. I’ll come to your place and scrub your floors. I’ll pick up your dry cleaning. I’ll—�
He lifted his head, pinning her once again with that icy stare. “There’s only one thing I want from you and it isn’t goddamn dry cleaning.�
If you know me, you know I hate anal BUT JASON CAN HAVE MY ASS. He was the cutest, grumpiest, sasquatch comedy king. I could not find a fault w that big puppy of a man. I'm surprised to have found myself laughing several times. The couple was so adorably funny together🥺
He also has an injured knee, so every time Jason hid his unbearable pain not to worry her-
His bad knee could barely hold his weight. But he couldn’t hop up the stairs on one foot like he usually did when it got like this. Annalise would come to see what all the noise was about, and then she’d feel terrible when she saw him struggling. So he held his breath, slowly inched his way up the steps, and finally, crawled into bed with her.
Heart strings were pulled, ripped, tied into bows... that's all I'll say.
I should feel guilty for enjoying this when some things were extremely similar to making it very sus. I'm not gonna lie, it's been a while since I read that book, but even some tiny details felt eerily similar.
I really don't want to say this book is the P word. Mainly because I'm not certain enough to throw out accusations....100% not because I'm trying to selfishly live in denial. (No fr I hear absolutely no one talking about the similarities except for Misha. I feel inadvertently gaslighted)
BUT IF IT WAS THOUGH.......
A) Miss author, you really couldn't do me a favour and conduct your
B) You didn't see me or my rating. Leave me alone.
January 23, 2022
� 𝗿𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 ~ 𝟬𝟭/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮 (𝟯.𝟲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀) �
Theo is the real MVP of this book, hands down. I cannot wait for his book, ngl.
I knocked my rating down a bit because I was not a fan of how Jason broke up with Annalise. She deserved more from him and she deserved a better apology. Also the romance in this developed rather abruptly, imo. I would have liked for it to have been explored a bit more.
But yeah, I pretty much stand by my original review. I can't wait to see what book two has in store.
.
.
.
.
.
ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ⋆⁷�// ꜰᴏᴜʀ ꜱᴛᴀʀ� �
� sᴏɴ� ʀᴇᴄ � ~
-ˏ͛� ᴍ� ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ� ⑅ˏ�-
Don't you guys just love when you mindlessly pick up a book, go in with zero expectations, and then end up so utterly engrossed that you stay up half the night to finish it? It is truly one of the greatest feelings in the world.
I went into MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL expecting a knockoff Bass-Ackwards, and left with literal tears in my eyes. Gosh, my emotions were all over the place reading this one. The set up is pretty simple (and also seems ripped straight out of a cheesy porno), but as the story goes on I realized how much heart Jason and Annalise had.
-ˏ͛� ᴀ ʙʀɪᴇꜰ ꜱʏɴᴏᴘꜱɪ� ⑅ˏ�-
Annalise Teague is broke, broke, broke. Therefore, she has no money to pay rent on her apartment, so, what's a girl to do? Enter Jason. Jason is the big grumpy lumberjack looking man who happens to be her landlord. When he comes by asking for rent Annalise tells him, ❝Please, I'll do anything.� Thus, commences their mutually beneficial relationship. Anna and Jason will have sex every Saturday, in exchange Annalise will get live in her apartment rent free. However, what happens if Anna likes their arrangement? Moreover, what happens if Jason actually happens to be a good guy behind his gruff exterior?
-ˏ͛� ᴡʜᴀ� ɪ ʟɪᴋᴇ� ⑅ˏ�-
� ᴊᴀꜱᴏɴ & ᴶɴɴᴶʟɪꜱᴇ �
Both main characters, Jason and Annalise, were fabulous main characters, Jason especially. I went into MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL not expecting much character wise, and left with the aforementioned tears in my eyes. Both Jason and Anna had heart wrenching backstories, but I have to say Jason really tugged at my heartstrings.
� ᴊᴀꜱᴏɴ ✨~ When we first meet Jason he's. . . well he's quiet, gruff, and makes a harebrained proposition. However, once we get inside his head and Anna gets to know him outside of sex she - and us the readers - realize how multi-faceted Jason truly is. First, he's an Army Vet who struggles with PTSD and is still dealing with brain damaged he suffered from.
In addition, we see through various "flashbacks" that he is still grappling with an abusive relationship he left five years prior. All of this to say, Jason is a complex well thought out individual. His struggles felt real, his bone deep kindness was beautiful to witness, and his insecurities were subtly woven into his character. I enjoyed seeing him not only open up to Annalise, but actually connect with her and recognize she was a safe place where he could be himself.
� ᴶɴɴᴶʟɪꜱᴇ ✨~ On the other hand we have Annalise. She was a different character from Jason in that she appeared to - rent issue notwithstanding - to have her shit a bit more together. Yet, one of the most enjoyable parts of MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL was witnessing Annalise, not come apart, but lower her guard towards Jason. She is a fixer, a doer, a mother hen, if you will. Since her parents have died its been on her to not only take care of herself, but also take care of her older brother. Anna selflessly takes care of her older brother and is doing everything in her power to get him clean. However, the question that comes to our minds - and Jason - is this, who takes care of Annalise? Once again, enter Jason.
MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL displays Annalise's strength, courage, and sweetness. She's an interesting individual and she truly earned her HEA with Jason. While Jason had the more compelling story - IMO - Anna had a subtler story. Her journey over the course of this book was more subtle. We subtlety see her realize that it's okay to allow yourself moments of vulnerability. Through, Annalise we see that it's okay to let someone else take care of you. And through Annalise we witness what unconditional love looks like.
� ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ �
I really liked the romance in MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL. Not only did it start out with quite the bang, but I positively loved how it progressed. Jason and Annalise start with their "mutually beneficial" arraignment and slowly over the course of the book it shifts into something more. I'd say my favorite aspect of the romance was the way in which Jason and Annalise were just there for each other.
� ꜰᴏʀ ᴇxᴀᴍᴘʟ� ✨~ one of my favorite scenes in the book is this scene -
Not only does the above scene demonstrate the banter between Jason and Annalise, but it shows just how well Annalise reads Jason. First, she knows that he's probably embarrassed that she just saw him having a panic attack. Second, she's using humor to diffuse the situation because she knows he needs some lightness injected into the moment. Lastly, she's not only trying to make him feel better, but is also telling him that she likes//loves him "flaws" and all. To me the above moment really encapsulates why these two work so well together.
� ᴶᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴᴶʟʟ ✨~ I loved the obvious affection they both had for one another. I think a lot of times in romancelandia many of the couples seem to. . . not really like each other? Or at least everything between said couple is appears so difficult. Every now and then it's truly refreshing to see a couple who genuinely love to spend time together and see so sweetly adore one another.
Jason secretly pines for Annalise and sees her a his calm in the storm. Annalise straight up adores Jason and sees him as her big protector. There was something just so sweet about their burgeoning romance. I wanted to protect it all costs.
� ᴛʜᴇ� �
Not even gonna lie, I am hoping and praying that Old Habits is all about Theo, Annalise's brother. Firstly, he so deserves a wonderful happily ever after, and secondly, he was such a great character. We get enough backstory about him to be intrigued and we get to see a glimpse of the struggles he's going through. However, what made Theo such an interesting character was even at his lowest we can see that he truly cares for his sister. The bond Theo and Annalise have is so beautiful. The way Annalise never gives up on Theo was so inspiring and felt so real. Likewise, what Theo does for Annalise at the end seriously rings true. Their bond was strong and I'm glad the author went out her way to actually develop it. Also, due to having a real life brother of my own I happen to have a true soft spot for brother-sister relationships in my stories (the platonic non-stepbrother kind of course).
Additionally, I really liked the friendship he started with Jason. Not only was it actually really sweet, but they happen get along really well. The friendship didn't feel forced at all and it also allowed us to see another side to both Jason and Theo. They have this grumpy-grumpy // awkward dynamic that I just love. I'm really hoping we get more Jason x Theo moments in his potential book. What can I say, I'm a huge sucker for a great well written bromance.
-ˏ͛� ᴡʜᴀ� ɪ ᴅɪᴅɴ'� ʟɪᴋᴇ ⑅ˏ�-
☁×� ᴛʜᴇ ᴍɪꜱᴄᴏᴍᴍᴜɴɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ °×�
I'm sure I'm not alone when I say this, buuuuut the miscommunication trope is one of my least favorites. What usually makes said trope so frustrating is the fact that usually when it rears its ugly head it feels so out of place. And that's exactly what happened here. See, for almost the entire book Jason and Annalise have had pretty good communication skills. That's basically how they were able to transition their relationship into what it became. However, suddenly by the end of the book Jason is deciding they need to break up. . . because reasons. *sigh*
� ᴛʜᴇ ᴡʜ� ᴏꜰ ɪ� ᴀʟʟ ✨~ really annoyed me. So, the grand reason Jason decides to breakup with Annalise is because of their "mutually beneficial" relationship. Now mind you at this point in the book they were actually together together. Thus, he's retroactively breaking up with her because. . . he feels bad?? I - *sighs* Jason, my man, don't be sorry be better.
� ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴜɢɢᴇ� ᴍᴇ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱ� ✨~ it seemed so out of left field. Like, I thought they had talked everything out? I thought they were good. And look, I get it, her fucking him in exchange for free rent because all her extra money is being put towards her brothers rehab stay is. . . not a great look on his part. HOWEVER, they had already talked about everything. Plus, and this is a big one, Annalise never felt bad about their arrangement. Thus, for a couple who talked out much harder issues you'd think Jason would share his insecurities // uncertainties. But, alas. This breakup seemed to happen for dramas sake and that's it. Therefore, I found it unnecessary, annoying, and very out of character for Jason.
☁×� ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴀ ʙɪ� ᴍᴏʀ� °×�
My last point is less a complaint and more a general. . . feeling. See, I really really liked this book. In fact, I think it had the potential to be a five star read, with some tweaks. What kept MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL from being mind-blowing was this elusive thing. I've thought about it and thought about it and I think I know what it is. I wanted just a bit more from Jason and Annalise as characters. Jason especially had a whole host of issues that I felt we only scratched the surface of. From his PTSD, to his survivors guilt, to the brain damage he suffered, from holding in the pain of his past abusive relationship. There was a lot going on with Jason. Thus, when the book ended I personally felt there was more to explore.
Additionally, I wanted to know more about Annalise. A lot of this book seemed more focused on Jason's issues and while that's understandable I felt like Anna's pain got a touch glossed over. Our heroine was going through it and taking life's challenges like a champ. Moreover, it seemed like she had a lot inner turmoil that she was just now dealing with.
Ultimately, I think it comes down to the books length. Now, as I've said anytime I touch on this point, I'm not an author. I don't know how an author decides how long/short a book will be. BUT, sometimes I read certain stories and just know if they had been a touch longer things could've truly "come together." Personally, I think that's what happened here. I think if the book were a touch longer the things raised in MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL could've been further addressed. Orrrr, it could just be that I'm a greedy bish and wanted all the chapters ;))
-ˏ͛� ɪɴ ᴄᴏɴᴄʟᴜꜱɪᴏɴ. . . ⑅ˏ�-
MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL ended up being a real surprise hit for me. I went in expecting. . . not much, okay if i'm being honest I was expecting meaningless smut that I'd most likely DNF @20%. Instead, new-to-me author Ava Guerre served me a delicious, somewhat taboo, landlord-with-benefits romance. Jason and Annalise ended up being really deep and realistic characters that I couldn't help but root for. Jason especially surprised me with his insecurities, pain, and capacity to care // love Annalise.
Ultimately, I highly recommend MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL. If you're looking for a turned down version of BASS-ACKWARDS, or just like the "i'll-sex-you-up-in-exchange-for-free-rent" trope then this is the book for you. Moreover, I'm really hoping that book two stars Annalise's brother, Theo. He truly deserves his HEA and I can't wait to see what journey AVA GUERRE takes him on.
Theo is the real MVP of this book, hands down. I cannot wait for his book, ngl.
“I promise I will not go out and shoot up while you’re getting laid.�
“Theo!� Her cheeks flooded with heat. �
Excuse me. I promise I will not go out and partake of heroin while you’re holding hands and reading the bible with your beau.�
I knocked my rating down a bit because I was not a fan of how Jason broke up with Annalise. She deserved more from him and she deserved a better apology. Also the romance in this developed rather abruptly, imo. I would have liked for it to have been explored a bit more.
But yeah, I pretty much stand by my original review. I can't wait to see what book two has in store.
.
.
.
.
.
ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ⋆⁷�// ꜰᴏᴜʀ ꜱᴛᴀʀ� �
❝JDz?�
❝Sorry, just thinking.�
❝Are you thinking about how much you want to make French toast?�
A small smile pulled at his lips. ❝Is that a hint?�
� sᴏɴ� ʀᴇᴄ � ~
-ˏ͛� ᴍ� ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ� ⑅ˏ�-
ᴀ ʙʀɪᴇꜰ ᴀꜱɪᴅ� �//� Mutually Beneficial is kickstarting a new book category that i'm labeling -ᴊᴜʟɪᴀ'� ᴍɪᴅɴɪɢʜ� ʀᴇᴀᴅꜱ�- basically, i started this book at midnight (as one does) and ended up forgoing all my hours of sleep just to finish this book. i do this a lot and i've finally decided to name the phenomena.
Don't you guys just love when you mindlessly pick up a book, go in with zero expectations, and then end up so utterly engrossed that you stay up half the night to finish it? It is truly one of the greatest feelings in the world.
I went into MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL expecting a knockoff Bass-Ackwards, and left with literal tears in my eyes. Gosh, my emotions were all over the place reading this one. The set up is pretty simple (and also seems ripped straight out of a cheesy porno), but as the story goes on I realized how much heart Jason and Annalise had.
-ˏ͛� ᴀ ʙʀɪᴇꜰ ꜱʏɴᴏᴘꜱɪ� ⑅ˏ�-
Annalise Teague is broke, broke, broke. Therefore, she has no money to pay rent on her apartment, so, what's a girl to do? Enter Jason. Jason is the big grumpy lumberjack looking man who happens to be her landlord. When he comes by asking for rent Annalise tells him, ❝Please, I'll do anything.� Thus, commences their mutually beneficial relationship. Anna and Jason will have sex every Saturday, in exchange Annalise will get live in her apartment rent free. However, what happens if Anna likes their arrangement? Moreover, what happens if Jason actually happens to be a good guy behind his gruff exterior?
-ˏ͛� ᴡʜᴀ� ɪ ʟɪᴋᴇ� ⑅ˏ�-
❝You know what would make it even better?� He grinned.
❝If you say ‘French toast� I’ll—❞
❝You’ll what?�
He nipped her shoulder and let her go. ❝I’ll make you French toast.�
� ᴊᴀꜱᴏɴ & ᴶɴɴᴶʟɪꜱᴇ �
Both main characters, Jason and Annalise, were fabulous main characters, Jason especially. I went into MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL not expecting much character wise, and left with the aforementioned tears in my eyes. Both Jason and Anna had heart wrenching backstories, but I have to say Jason really tugged at my heartstrings.
� ᴊᴀꜱᴏɴ ✨~ When we first meet Jason he's. . . well he's quiet, gruff, and makes a harebrained proposition. However, once we get inside his head and Anna gets to know him outside of sex she - and us the readers - realize how multi-faceted Jason truly is. First, he's an Army Vet who struggles with PTSD and is still dealing with brain damaged he suffered from.
In addition, we see through various "flashbacks" that he is still grappling with an abusive relationship he left five years prior. All of this to say, Jason is a complex well thought out individual. His struggles felt real, his bone deep kindness was beautiful to witness, and his insecurities were subtly woven into his character. I enjoyed seeing him not only open up to Annalise, but actually connect with her and recognize she was a safe place where he could be himself.
� ᴶɴɴᴶʟɪꜱᴇ ✨~ On the other hand we have Annalise. She was a different character from Jason in that she appeared to - rent issue notwithstanding - to have her shit a bit more together. Yet, one of the most enjoyable parts of MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL was witnessing Annalise, not come apart, but lower her guard towards Jason. She is a fixer, a doer, a mother hen, if you will. Since her parents have died its been on her to not only take care of herself, but also take care of her older brother. Anna selflessly takes care of her older brother and is doing everything in her power to get him clean. However, the question that comes to our minds - and Jason - is this, who takes care of Annalise? Once again, enter Jason.
MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL displays Annalise's strength, courage, and sweetness. She's an interesting individual and she truly earned her HEA with Jason. While Jason had the more compelling story - IMO - Anna had a subtler story. Her journey over the course of this book was more subtle. We subtlety see her realize that it's okay to allow yourself moments of vulnerability. Through, Annalise we see that it's okay to let someone else take care of you. And through Annalise we witness what unconditional love looks like.
� ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ �
I really liked the romance in MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL. Not only did it start out with quite the bang, but I positively loved how it progressed. Jason and Annalise start with their "mutually beneficial" arraignment and slowly over the course of the book it shifts into something more. I'd say my favorite aspect of the romance was the way in which Jason and Annalise were just there for each other.
� ꜰᴏʀ ᴇxᴀᴍᴘʟ� ✨~ one of my favorite scenes in the book is this scene -
❝Because you don’t like crowds? Or strangers? Or whatever your trigger is? Jason, that’s so common, it’s almost boring.�
A small thread of affront managed to weave through all the self-loathing. ǰԲ?�
❝Yeah. Anxiety? Come on. Amateur hour. You can’t call yourself a headcase unless you’re killing neighborhood cats and keeping their bodies nailed to your garage wall.�
❝That’s� a really high bar.�
Not only does the above scene demonstrate the banter between Jason and Annalise, but it shows just how well Annalise reads Jason. First, she knows that he's probably embarrassed that she just saw him having a panic attack. Second, she's using humor to diffuse the situation because she knows he needs some lightness injected into the moment. Lastly, she's not only trying to make him feel better, but is also telling him that she likes//loves him "flaws" and all. To me the above moment really encapsulates why these two work so well together.
� ᴶᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴᴶʟʟ ✨~ I loved the obvious affection they both had for one another. I think a lot of times in romancelandia many of the couples seem to. . . not really like each other? Or at least everything between said couple is appears so difficult. Every now and then it's truly refreshing to see a couple who genuinely love to spend time together and see so sweetly adore one another.
❝I love you, Annalise. I loved you the moment I met you. You’re kind and giving and too good for me—❞
She stopped him with a finger against his lips. ❝Do I deserve whatever I want?�
❝That and more,� he said, earnest.
❝I want you. So you’re not too good for me—you’re exactly what I deserve. One day you’ll believe it,� Anna whispered.
Jason secretly pines for Annalise and sees her a his calm in the storm. Annalise straight up adores Jason and sees him as her big protector. There was something just so sweet about their burgeoning romance. I wanted to protect it all costs.
� ᴛʜᴇ� �
Not even gonna lie, I am hoping and praying that Old Habits is all about Theo, Annalise's brother. Firstly, he so deserves a wonderful happily ever after, and secondly, he was such a great character. We get enough backstory about him to be intrigued and we get to see a glimpse of the struggles he's going through. However, what made Theo such an interesting character was even at his lowest we can see that he truly cares for his sister. The bond Theo and Annalise have is so beautiful. The way Annalise never gives up on Theo was so inspiring and felt so real. Likewise, what Theo does for Annalise at the end seriously rings true. Their bond was strong and I'm glad the author went out her way to actually develop it. Also, due to having a real life brother of my own I happen to have a true soft spot for brother-sister relationships in my stories (the platonic non-stepbrother kind of course).
Additionally, I really liked the friendship he started with Jason. Not only was it actually really sweet, but they happen get along really well. The friendship didn't feel forced at all and it also allowed us to see another side to both Jason and Theo. They have this grumpy-grumpy // awkward dynamic that I just love. I'm really hoping we get more Jason x Theo moments in his potential book. What can I say, I'm a huge sucker for a great well written bromance.
-ˏ͛� ᴡʜᴀ� ɪ ᴅɪᴅɴ'� ʟɪᴋᴇ ⑅ˏ�-
☁×� ᴛʜᴇ ᴍɪꜱᴄᴏᴍᴍᴜɴɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ °×�
*sigh* and we were doing so well. . . what is a romance without a 9th hour breakup?
I'm sure I'm not alone when I say this, buuuuut the miscommunication trope is one of my least favorites. What usually makes said trope so frustrating is the fact that usually when it rears its ugly head it feels so out of place. And that's exactly what happened here. See, for almost the entire book Jason and Annalise have had pretty good communication skills. That's basically how they were able to transition their relationship into what it became. However, suddenly by the end of the book Jason is deciding they need to break up. . . because reasons. *sigh*
� ᴛʜᴇ ᴡʜ� ᴏꜰ ɪ� ᴀʟʟ ✨~ really annoyed me. So, the grand reason Jason decides to breakup with Annalise is because of their "mutually beneficial" relationship. Now mind you at this point in the book they were actually together together. Thus, he's retroactively breaking up with her because. . . he feels bad?? I - *sighs* Jason, my man, don't be sorry be better.
� ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴜɢɢᴇ� ᴍᴇ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱ� ✨~ it seemed so out of left field. Like, I thought they had talked everything out? I thought they were good. And look, I get it, her fucking him in exchange for free rent because all her extra money is being put towards her brothers rehab stay is. . . not a great look on his part. HOWEVER, they had already talked about everything. Plus, and this is a big one, Annalise never felt bad about their arrangement. Thus, for a couple who talked out much harder issues you'd think Jason would share his insecurities // uncertainties. But, alas. This breakup seemed to happen for dramas sake and that's it. Therefore, I found it unnecessary, annoying, and very out of character for Jason.
☁×� ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴀ ʙɪ� ᴍᴏʀ� °×�
My last point is less a complaint and more a general. . . feeling. See, I really really liked this book. In fact, I think it had the potential to be a five star read, with some tweaks. What kept MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL from being mind-blowing was this elusive thing. I've thought about it and thought about it and I think I know what it is. I wanted just a bit more from Jason and Annalise as characters. Jason especially had a whole host of issues that I felt we only scratched the surface of. From his PTSD, to his survivors guilt, to the brain damage he suffered, from holding in the pain of his past abusive relationship. There was a lot going on with Jason. Thus, when the book ended I personally felt there was more to explore.
Additionally, I wanted to know more about Annalise. A lot of this book seemed more focused on Jason's issues and while that's understandable I felt like Anna's pain got a touch glossed over. Our heroine was going through it and taking life's challenges like a champ. Moreover, it seemed like she had a lot inner turmoil that she was just now dealing with.
Ultimately, I think it comes down to the books length. Now, as I've said anytime I touch on this point, I'm not an author. I don't know how an author decides how long/short a book will be. BUT, sometimes I read certain stories and just know if they had been a touch longer things could've truly "come together." Personally, I think that's what happened here. I think if the book were a touch longer the things raised in MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL could've been further addressed. Orrrr, it could just be that I'm a greedy bish and wanted all the chapters ;))
-ˏ͛� ɪɴ ᴄᴏɴᴄʟᴜꜱɪᴏɴ. . . ⑅ˏ�-
MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL ended up being a real surprise hit for me. I went in expecting. . . not much, okay if i'm being honest I was expecting meaningless smut that I'd most likely DNF @20%. Instead, new-to-me author Ava Guerre served me a delicious, somewhat taboo, landlord-with-benefits romance. Jason and Annalise ended up being really deep and realistic characters that I couldn't help but root for. Jason especially surprised me with his insecurities, pain, and capacity to care // love Annalise.
Ultimately, I highly recommend MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL. If you're looking for a turned down version of BASS-ACKWARDS, or just like the "i'll-sex-you-up-in-exchange-for-free-rent" trope then this is the book for you. Moreover, I'm really hoping that book two stars Annalise's brother, Theo. He truly deserves his HEA and I can't wait to see what journey AVA GUERRE takes him on.
September 8, 2023
4.5 this was hot AF Stars!! 🔥🔥🔥
Hoo, Man...This was sooo good!!
Thanks to Crystal and Isabella for bringing this to my attention. This was that perfect mix of story, relationship building, and steamy as hell smut!
God, I loved Jason's broken ass. I need to find me one, so I can heal him through my pussy too! 🤣🤣
No, for real, I loved Jason and Annalise. They both just needed a little TLC and were able to give each other that little extra attention and compassion that helped heal their souls. I loved watching them be there for each other as a strong support, when they needed it the most. Jason and Annalise deserved their HEA. Steamy yet heartwarming!!
💯🙌🏼🔥💖
Hoo, Man...This was sooo good!!
Thanks to Crystal and Isabella for bringing this to my attention. This was that perfect mix of story, relationship building, and steamy as hell smut!
God, I loved Jason's broken ass. I need to find me one, so I can heal him through my pussy too! 🤣🤣
No, for real, I loved Jason and Annalise. They both just needed a little TLC and were able to give each other that little extra attention and compassion that helped heal their souls. I loved watching them be there for each other as a strong support, when they needed it the most. Jason and Annalise deserved their HEA. Steamy yet heartwarming!!
💯🙌🏼🔥💖
January 25, 2023
At the risk of sounding dramatic, I fell to my knees when this was unpublished.
The Jason we meet in the beginning is not the Jason we get to know. The front he puts on is effective, making even Annalise think he’s an asshole.
Jason being a landlord? Ooh, he had the cards stacked against him. From his point of view, we see the trauma he’s gone through (and is still going through) and realize that he really is just a teddy bear. The way he revered Annalise was very appealing to me, and Annalise earned that reverence by simply being a good and lovable person.
This book may be dead (rest in peace), but it is not and never will be forgotten.
★★★★�
The Jason we meet in the beginning is not the Jason we get to know. The front he puts on is effective, making even Annalise think he’s an asshole.
Jason being a landlord? Ooh, he had the cards stacked against him. From his point of view, we see the trauma he’s gone through (and is still going through) and realize that he really is just a teddy bear. The way he revered Annalise was very appealing to me, and Annalise earned that reverence by simply being a good and lovable person.
This book may be dead (rest in peace), but it is not and never will be forgotten.
★★★★�
September 17, 2021
I'm usually weary of books under 300 pages (they usually feel rushed or incomplete) but in this case I was pleasantly surprised by how much story was packed into only 200 odd pages. Nothing felt like it was rushed and I just loved Anna and Jason's story so much.
The book jumps right into the proposition and normally I love a slow burn and tease before a couple jumps into bed but the way it was written had my toes curling and my mouth hanging open while thinking "omg did he just ask her?? No!!!" It's deliciously wrong and I'm here for it.
If you've read (highly recommend you do) it's got a very similar vibe to the opening chapters of that book but this book is no carbon copy of that, Anna and Jason are wildly different characters to the two in Bass-Ackwards.
One of the topics in this book was that of a man being the victim of domestic abuse in a relationship. While you absolutely feel sympathy for Jason, he's not in any way diminished or less alpha because of it and I loved that it has that message. Abuse can happen in any relationship and it takes so many forms and isn't limited to gender so well done to Ava for writing about a H in such a way that was less sympathy and more about his resilience. I absolutely loved the big grumpy lumberjack.
This book packs so much heart and deals with some pretty hectic subjects but it was such a great read and the steam was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 ...Jason is a bossy, bossy man on that front 😍
If you want a quick read that will melt your heart and melt your Kindle then I highly recommend.
The book jumps right into the proposition and normally I love a slow burn and tease before a couple jumps into bed but the way it was written had my toes curling and my mouth hanging open while thinking "omg did he just ask her?? No!!!" It's deliciously wrong and I'm here for it.
If you've read (highly recommend you do) it's got a very similar vibe to the opening chapters of that book but this book is no carbon copy of that, Anna and Jason are wildly different characters to the two in Bass-Ackwards.
One of the topics in this book was that of a man being the victim of domestic abuse in a relationship. While you absolutely feel sympathy for Jason, he's not in any way diminished or less alpha because of it and I loved that it has that message. Abuse can happen in any relationship and it takes so many forms and isn't limited to gender so well done to Ava for writing about a H in such a way that was less sympathy and more about his resilience. I absolutely loved the big grumpy lumberjack.
This book packs so much heart and deals with some pretty hectic subjects but it was such a great read and the steam was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 ...Jason is a bossy, bossy man on that front 😍
If you want a quick read that will melt your heart and melt your Kindle then I highly recommend.
September 16, 2021
Wow.
Guerre managed to take the dirtiest premise and turn it into a hot and emotional romantic story.
LOL, you feel like that sounds absolutely unlikely? Well, go and check it out for yourself but keep your mind open because it's not a typical romantic "getting to know you".
Annalise and Jason burned through the pages with their chemistry but they were also the most wonderful humans who got to know each other through little interactions here and there. This story reminded me of my favourite gem but Guerre twisted the landlord/tenant trope a little further to make it different enough yet equally wonderful.
A damaged hero meeting a sunny sweetheart heroine is like my kryptonite when done well. And this one was done oh so well.
I'm sooo reading everything else by this author!!
Izzy, thank you so so much for this find!!
Guerre managed to take the dirtiest premise and turn it into a hot and emotional romantic story.
LOL, you feel like that sounds absolutely unlikely? Well, go and check it out for yourself but keep your mind open because it's not a typical romantic "getting to know you".
Annalise and Jason burned through the pages with their chemistry but they were also the most wonderful humans who got to know each other through little interactions here and there. This story reminded me of my favourite gem but Guerre twisted the landlord/tenant trope a little further to make it different enough yet equally wonderful.
A damaged hero meeting a sunny sweetheart heroine is like my kryptonite when done well. And this one was done oh so well.
She’d taken his ugly, crude proposal and turned it into a relationship. She’d taken his broken, battered psyche and bullied him into talking about it. She’d taken his loneliness and shown him how to fill it.
- they melted my heart.
I'm sooo reading everything else by this author!!
Izzy, thank you so so much for this find!!
August 8, 2022
Edit: This book is no longer available.
Alright, I was directed here after reading and enjoy Bass-Ackwards by Eris Adderly and I've gotta say that I might be kind of obsessed with this whole trope of bribing people into having sex with you by offering them free housing or paid days off work and shit. I've been reviewing romance for a really long time and this is kinda my first foray into this theme. I don't hate it, at all, so if you know of any others please feel free to comment some recs for me.
This book was hot as hell. Like...take a break cause I'm getting sweaty kind of hot. Loved that Jason wasn't just a prick, but a man desperate for human connection (and obsessed with the heroine) and willing to take whatever he could get from her however he could get it. I loved that he didn't even think himself worth of touching her, but was totally cool with making her sleep with him when she couldn't afford to keep up with the rent payments. Dude did not make sense and he fucking knew it.
Annalise was me. Not the sex part. But the bossing around the people you love because you have their best interests at heart part. That's me to a T. I feel like in a scenario where some tall, gruff, bearded man with a bad attitude tells me I can get out of paying rent if I fuck him that I'd say no, but I really admire Annalise for saying yes. It was bold.
Their dynamic was really interesting because they seemed like such opposites at the start, but were actually pretty similar. She needed Jason's calming presence and he needed her fire. And it was pretty hilarious to try and figure out how they were gonna go from fucking as a trade to fucking because they actually like each other.
Highly recommend. I'll be reading the second in the series, too. And I really want to reread this one right away but as it's my month of no rereads....I am not allowed. And it's pretty sad.
Alright, I was directed here after reading and enjoy Bass-Ackwards by Eris Adderly and I've gotta say that I might be kind of obsessed with this whole trope of bribing people into having sex with you by offering them free housing or paid days off work and shit. I've been reviewing romance for a really long time and this is kinda my first foray into this theme. I don't hate it, at all, so if you know of any others please feel free to comment some recs for me.
This book was hot as hell. Like...take a break cause I'm getting sweaty kind of hot. Loved that Jason wasn't just a prick, but a man desperate for human connection (and obsessed with the heroine) and willing to take whatever he could get from her however he could get it. I loved that he didn't even think himself worth of touching her, but was totally cool with making her sleep with him when she couldn't afford to keep up with the rent payments. Dude did not make sense and he fucking knew it.
Annalise was me. Not the sex part. But the bossing around the people you love because you have their best interests at heart part. That's me to a T. I feel like in a scenario where some tall, gruff, bearded man with a bad attitude tells me I can get out of paying rent if I fuck him that I'd say no, but I really admire Annalise for saying yes. It was bold.
Their dynamic was really interesting because they seemed like such opposites at the start, but were actually pretty similar. She needed Jason's calming presence and he needed her fire. And it was pretty hilarious to try and figure out how they were gonna go from fucking as a trade to fucking because they actually like each other.
Highly recommend. I'll be reading the second in the series, too. And I really want to reread this one right away but as it's my month of no rereads....I am not allowed. And it's pretty sad.
September 29, 2021
Just ok, but I liked!
September 18, 2021
Thank you, Isabella, for putting this book under my radar.
What is a girl to do when you are in a position that you can't pay your rent for the next few months? Well, you make an arrangement to sleep with your landlord once A week. And, of course, he is nice on the eyes. So that is a bonus.
The landlord, Jason, is a complex war veteran, and from day one has been attracted to Anna, he will take her any way he can get her. He is a man of few words with PTSD.
Anna is a nonjudgemental social worker with the state. She has issues of her own with her brother and no otter family. She has a heart of gold, but don't cross her or the ones she loves. She is fierce.
I had a hard time with the writing at first. It's outside my normal. Once I got used to it, I adored this story. Yes, it is steamy, but I enjoyed the plot tenfold than the steam. Anna is exactly who Jason needs to push him. Mutually Beneficial is a steamy and unexpected delight.
What is a girl to do when you are in a position that you can't pay your rent for the next few months? Well, you make an arrangement to sleep with your landlord once A week. And, of course, he is nice on the eyes. So that is a bonus.
The landlord, Jason, is a complex war veteran, and from day one has been attracted to Anna, he will take her any way he can get her. He is a man of few words with PTSD.
Anna is a nonjudgemental social worker with the state. She has issues of her own with her brother and no otter family. She has a heart of gold, but don't cross her or the ones she loves. She is fierce.
I had a hard time with the writing at first. It's outside my normal. Once I got used to it, I adored this story. Yes, it is steamy, but I enjoyed the plot tenfold than the steam. Anna is exactly who Jason needs to push him. Mutually Beneficial is a steamy and unexpected delight.
May 28, 2021
Trigger Warnings:
This book was getting a buncha hype on the romance book subreddit and I can see why, this book is very well written imo. I really liked the writing style, I liked how everything got straight to the point and there were no unnecessary details. This book was pretty addicting since I couldn't stop reading once I started. This book dealt with dark issues and dealt with it in a realistic way, everything about this book was pretty realistic. Anna is a sweetheart and Jason has dealt with a lot in the past so I get why he is the way he is. But I didn't enjoy this book as much as I would have liked.
This book starts off right with the summary, Anna doesn't have enough money for rent and Jason comes knocking on her door. The second she tells him she can't afford rent and she'll do anything, he immediately tells her that she can't offer anything except one thing that'll satisfy him. And that one thing is her body, sex with no strings attached. The summary was straight-forward, I knew what was gonna happen but I assumed that we would get more background with the characters before we jump right into it. I'll go into spoilers so that I can give more of my thoughts. But to summarize my non-spoilery thoughts, I think you might like this if they like the quid-pro-quo/transactional sex trope. I assumed the characters knew each other more before the exchange happened but that wasn't really the case. I feel like I would enjoy more books by , but I just didn't really like this book.
Now for spoilers
I feel like others might enjoy this more since this isn't a trope that I really read. The story deals with many issues, it's not just sex, there are darker things that are addressed. It's more of sex first and bonding later on. I feel like it would've been nice to see more bonding before the sex but I yea. Nothing much else to add but if you like the transactional sex trope, check this one out, you might like it. If not, you might feel like me and not enjoy it. Anyway, that is all, stay safe folks!
This book was getting a buncha hype on the romance book subreddit and I can see why, this book is very well written imo. I really liked the writing style, I liked how everything got straight to the point and there were no unnecessary details. This book was pretty addicting since I couldn't stop reading once I started. This book dealt with dark issues and dealt with it in a realistic way, everything about this book was pretty realistic. Anna is a sweetheart and Jason has dealt with a lot in the past so I get why he is the way he is. But I didn't enjoy this book as much as I would have liked.
This book starts off right with the summary, Anna doesn't have enough money for rent and Jason comes knocking on her door. The second she tells him she can't afford rent and she'll do anything, he immediately tells her that she can't offer anything except one thing that'll satisfy him. And that one thing is her body, sex with no strings attached. The summary was straight-forward, I knew what was gonna happen but I assumed that we would get more background with the characters before we jump right into it. I'll go into spoilers so that I can give more of my thoughts. But to summarize my non-spoilery thoughts, I think you might like this if they like the quid-pro-quo/transactional sex trope. I assumed the characters knew each other more before the exchange happened but that wasn't really the case. I feel like I would enjoy more books by , but I just didn't really like this book.
Now for spoilers
I feel like others might enjoy this more since this isn't a trope that I really read. The story deals with many issues, it's not just sex, there are darker things that are addressed. It's more of sex first and bonding later on. I feel like it would've been nice to see more bonding before the sex but I yea. Nothing much else to add but if you like the transactional sex trope, check this one out, you might like it. If not, you might feel like me and not enjoy it. Anyway, that is all, stay safe folks!
September 10, 2022
Why was this so good? I can't even.
Edit 9/10/22
I just learned that Heather Guerre decided to unpublish Mutually Beneficial and I am honestly devastated, which sounds so dramatic but I really don't care. This story truly touched me and I am so sad others won't be able to experience it.
Edit 9/10/22
I just learned that Heather Guerre decided to unpublish Mutually Beneficial and I am honestly devastated, which sounds so dramatic but I really don't care. This story truly touched me and I am so sad others won't be able to experience it.
Read
February 20, 2022Hotttt and sweet at the same time!
August 22, 2024
5 STARS!!
So this one is not for everyone. Here is the premise:
I did have to compromise my scruples to read this one as it's out of print (a HUGE tragedy!) and I had to read it off of an illegal site. But I figured that since I was more than willing to pay for it, it was fine . . . sounds a bit like the premise of the book, questionable at best.😂😂
Everything in him seemed to settle into place.Wow, wow, wow!! For a book that began in the gutter, this one packed a solid emotional punch.😍😍 Thank you Isabella for the recommendation!
So this one is not for everyone. Here is the premise:
"You want to work your rent off, you can do it on your knees."And let me tell you, this tawdry beginning to Annalise and Jason's relationship was HOT! But then somehow, some way the author slowly turned this arrangement into a meaningful connection between two hurting people . . .
She'd taken his loneliness and shown him how to fill it.. . . with vulnerabilities that they wore on their sleeves.
He got the sense that he'd done the wrong thing - but he didn't know what the right thing would be. Ask to stay? God, the awkwardness if she said no would fucking kill him.Both of these characters were so cleverly constructed, with hidden depths that the author exposed slowly, layer by layer. Put that together with the taboo nature of it all, and I was a very happy reader.
I did have to compromise my scruples to read this one as it's out of print (a HUGE tragedy!) and I had to read it off of an illegal site. But I figured that since I was more than willing to pay for it, it was fine . . . sounds a bit like the premise of the book, questionable at best.😂😂
August 13, 2021
Loved it so much I read it twice! THANK YOU TO MY GOOD FRIEND ISABELLA FOR ALWAYS RECOMMENDING me novels. )It’s our love language).
June 12, 2021
I liked this indecent proposal. It felt a little cringy at first but once you got the dual pov it was kinda pervy/sweet.
This story deals with drug addiction, suicide, and PTSD. But it wasn't too heavy, mostly because Anna is so genuinely kind and loving.
I really liked this writers voice and would definitely read another book from her.
She wished she knew what he was thinking. She wanted to look at his face, but that felt wrong somehow. Not allowed. This part of the bargain was about what he wanted. Looking at him was something that she wanted. So she didn't look. She curled her fingers into the edge of the couch cushions and closed her eyes, dropping her head between her shoulders.Decent character growth, could have had a bit more backstory to why Jason's mother was so awful.
This story deals with drug addiction, suicide, and PTSD. But it wasn't too heavy, mostly because Anna is so genuinely kind and loving.
I really liked this writers voice and would definitely read another book from her.
She had an empty bank account, zero personal influence, and all the intimidating intensity of a shivering pomeranian.Some steamy dirty talkin fun with a hea for all involved.
September 21, 2021
Good. Very good. But not 5-star fantastic, for me.
The MCs were likeable and the plot was decent, but that was sort of the problem.
This book starts out smutty and then took a sharp left plot-turn to discuss subjects including but not limited to: PTSD, domestic abuse and drug-addiction.
I think the author did a good job exploring these subjects, but it was a lot to throw at me from an emotional standpoint, especially in under 220 pages.
Also, the heroine’s struggles were overshadowed by the problems facing her landlord/boyfriend and brother.
Annnnnnnd, if I’m being completely honest, the sexy smutty stuff wasn’t smutty enough, all things considered.
In my opinion, the author dips a pinky toe in the BDSM waters but wrote as though she was participating in adult swim. The heroine is apparently into being dominated and the landlord doesn’t mind, but the way in which this was explored fell flat. The dirty talk wasn’t all that dirty and the scenes were repetitive.
I think it was the calling him “Sir� part(s) that made me all�.
Anyway, there were great reviews for this book, and this is probably a more “it’s not you/it’s me� kinda book-problem that keeps me from giving it more stars, but I did enjoy this! And it’s free on KU, so bonus!
The MCs were likeable and the plot was decent, but that was sort of the problem.
This book starts out smutty and then took a sharp left plot-turn to discuss subjects including but not limited to: PTSD, domestic abuse and drug-addiction.
I think the author did a good job exploring these subjects, but it was a lot to throw at me from an emotional standpoint, especially in under 220 pages.
Also, the heroine’s struggles were overshadowed by the problems facing her landlord/boyfriend and brother.
Annnnnnnd, if I’m being completely honest, the sexy smutty stuff wasn’t smutty enough, all things considered.
In my opinion, the author dips a pinky toe in the BDSM waters but wrote as though she was participating in adult swim. The heroine is apparently into being dominated and the landlord doesn’t mind, but the way in which this was explored fell flat. The dirty talk wasn’t all that dirty and the scenes were repetitive.
I think it was the calling him “Sir� part(s) that made me all�.
Anyway, there were great reviews for this book, and this is probably a more “it’s not you/it’s me� kinda book-problem that keeps me from giving it more stars, but I did enjoy this! And it’s free on KU, so bonus!
November 13, 2023
Reread 2023
__________
__________
Big thanks to Mareeva 🤗 and her review, so I could find the existence of this book.
For those who loved this is definitely recommended although it was clearly very much inspired by the said book. Certain details were too similar to be a coinsidence or just the same trope.
Mutually Beneficial is much more worked-out especially in the reasoning why MCs act the way they do. At the same time though, it doesn't omit the sexiest moments for me - the grumpy and taciturn Hero and his curt orders to heroine during sex.
It would be 5 stars if it was an original, but it is what it is. 3.75 stars is very generous...
August 14, 2021
This book is more than I expected. When it started with a bang (ha), I thought it would be a lot of sex and no plot (which I don’t mind!). But this book was a lot more than that. Jason and Annalise both had a lot of depth. The transition from transactional sex to a relationship was very well done and very believable. I have never read a book by this author, but I will for sure read more now.
April 27, 2022
This book escalated super quick. Like 1st chapter quick. Weirdest sex scene I've read in a while. They were both awkward as fuck but somehow it worked. Told in 3rd POV
December 13, 2021
1.5 stars �
I didn't like how he treated Anna at the beginning of the book.
I didn't like how he treated Anna at the beginning of the book.
August 22, 2021
4 stars.
I saw this on KU and decided to give it a try� the story is so much better than I was expecting it to be.
While the hero and heroine’s relationship initially revolves around sex, it quickly grows into so much more. This book actually made my eyes water a little bit - it’s emotional and a little bit angsty - but only in the best ways. For such a short read, it’s really well done. There’s a lot of depth that I really didn’t expect from a transactional sex story.
My only complaint is how quickly the heroine takes the hero back at the end. I just really wanted a little groveling - but I also understand why the author chose to go the direction she did.
Anyways, totally worth the read.
Safety is great, no virgins, both only with each other.
TW: anxiety, PTSD, suicide attempt (side character), emotionally abusive ex partner, death of parents (past), drug addiction (side character)
I saw this on KU and decided to give it a try� the story is so much better than I was expecting it to be.
While the hero and heroine’s relationship initially revolves around sex, it quickly grows into so much more. This book actually made my eyes water a little bit - it’s emotional and a little bit angsty - but only in the best ways. For such a short read, it’s really well done. There’s a lot of depth that I really didn’t expect from a transactional sex story.
My only complaint is how quickly the heroine takes the hero back at the end. I just really wanted a little groveling - but I also understand why the author chose to go the direction she did.
Anyways, totally worth the read.
Safety is great, no virgins, both only with each other.
TW: anxiety, PTSD, suicide attempt (side character), emotionally abusive ex partner, death of parents (past), drug addiction (side character)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2021
"One."
Annalise Teague
"Two."
The Tenant
"Three."
Jason Andreas
"Four."
The Landlord
"Five."
An Agreement
"Six."
Saturday Nights
"Seven."
Sparkles Fly
"Eight."
Tenderness
"Nine."
An Eternal Love
"Ten."
A Happy-Ever-After
...and I really enjoyed reading this book, I don't have much to say. Just, I'm very happy that I read it!
June 20, 2022
deliciusly slutty and ott
April 17, 2022
4 stars 🌟
Short but surprisingly sweet and emotional grumpysunshine romance. I didn't expect much going into this given that the premise is... well,not exactly romantic, but the main characters were so wonderfully fleshed out and written with so much depth. It really took me by surprise how much I ended up enjoying this. Even the third act breakup made sense and I wasn't put off by it for once. I'd probably end up rereading this at some point.
Also, Theo's book should've been next. I feel robbed.
“He needed her so badly it scared him, but never enough to let her go. She made him better, in every way. She’d taken his ugly, crude proposal and turned it into a relationship. She’d taken his broken, battered psyche and bullied him into talking about it. She’d taken his loneliness and shown him how to fill it.�
Short but surprisingly sweet and emotional grumpysunshine romance. I didn't expect much going into this given that the premise is... well,
Also, Theo's book should've been next. I feel robbed.
June 13, 2021
Loved it. Sizzling hot, and utterly sweet. I adore it when two lonely people find their match and fit all the jagged edges.
Guerre writes such realistic characters (even her paranormal characters, lol)
Side note: this book deals realistically and compassionately with PTSD (mmc) and addiction recovery (side character)
Guerre writes such realistic characters (even her paranormal characters, lol)
Side note: this book deals realistically and compassionately with PTSD (mmc) and addiction recovery (side character)
August 9, 2021
Was expecting filthy smut, but this was sweet. There was a lot of smut, but it wasn’t overly filthy or kinky. Smut lite.
February 10, 2025
REVIEW
Score: 4/5
POV: Dual
Heat Level: 5+/5
Tropes: Landlord/Resident; Strangers to Lovers; Grumpy/Sunshine
Kinks: “Good Girl�/praise kink; dominate MMC
Likes:
* this book flowed super smooth especially to be a “taboo� book/dynamic.
* the plot (that you did have to dig for a bit between at the sex) was actually good and seeing how their two very different personalities just worked was enjoyable
Dislikes:
* the end! Omg Jason needed to grovel and that man just burst through her door and said “Mine� and bam it was like a 3rd act breakup didn’t happen!
Thank you to Lori for this rec! It was a great choice. It seriously was perfect for my current mood and was a hot, easy, enjoyable, read! Apparently people compare this to Bass-Ackwards and even have accused this author of plagiarism but I’ve now read both books and I don’t see the resemblance at all? The MMCs between the two books are insanely different even the FMCs are.
The only resemblance is the transactional sex and that both MMCs are mechanics. That’s literally it.
Anyways I digress� but yeah not too much more to say other than it was good and super hot and I would even reread this!
Giving it 4 stars because Jason, the MMC, really owed us a better grovel than the bullshit we got in the end lol.
4/5
Score: 4/5
POV: Dual
Heat Level: 5+/5
Tropes: Landlord/Resident; Strangers to Lovers; Grumpy/Sunshine
Kinks: “Good Girl�/praise kink; dominate MMC
Likes:
* this book flowed super smooth especially to be a “taboo� book/dynamic.
* the plot (that you did have to dig for a bit between at the sex) was actually good and seeing how their two very different personalities just worked was enjoyable
Dislikes:
* the end! Omg Jason needed to grovel and that man just burst through her door and said “Mine� and bam it was like a 3rd act breakup didn’t happen!
Thank you to Lori for this rec! It was a great choice. It seriously was perfect for my current mood and was a hot, easy, enjoyable, read! Apparently people compare this to Bass-Ackwards and even have accused this author of plagiarism but I’ve now read both books and I don’t see the resemblance at all? The MMCs between the two books are insanely different even the FMCs are.
The only resemblance is the transactional sex and that both MMCs are mechanics. That’s literally it.
Anyways I digress� but yeah not too much more to say other than it was good and super hot and I would even reread this!
Giving it 4 stars because Jason, the MMC, really owed us a better grovel than the bullshit we got in the end lol.
4/5
May 26, 2021
*** Book Q & A***
* How did the book make you feel?: I adored this story. It was recommended on a romance Reddit and I enjoyed every bit!
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The premise is similar to another book I love: Bass Ackwards by Eris Adderly. The pacing, dialogue, and characters were great. Couldn’t put it down.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I loved both of the MC’s. They were relatable and decent people. I’m a huge fan of this author’s FMC’s. They’re strong and pragmatic. The secondary characters were well-written too. The poor H’s mother was a WITCH!
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: I loved the steaminess! It’s a very fun book.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: arrangement, sex for rent, brooding H with PTSD
* What did you think about the ending?: I loved the epilogue.
* What is your impression of the author?: This is another pen name of the author who wrote Demon Lover and I am now officially hooked! This author is terribly underrated.
* How did the book make you feel?: I adored this story. It was recommended on a romance Reddit and I enjoyed every bit!
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The premise is similar to another book I love: Bass Ackwards by Eris Adderly. The pacing, dialogue, and characters were great. Couldn’t put it down.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I loved both of the MC’s. They were relatable and decent people. I’m a huge fan of this author’s FMC’s. They’re strong and pragmatic. The secondary characters were well-written too. The poor H’s mother was a WITCH!
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: I loved the steaminess! It’s a very fun book.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: arrangement, sex for rent, brooding H with PTSD
* What did you think about the ending?: I loved the epilogue.
* What is your impression of the author?: This is another pen name of the author who wrote Demon Lover and I am now officially hooked! This author is terribly underrated.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2022
hands down one of the best books i’ve ever read. i’m literally obsessed with it🥹
annalise is behind on rent payments & jason suggests that she can work off the debt� on her knees🤭what annalise doesn’t know is jason has had a crush on her for years. but what starts of as just sex ends up personal real quick.
jason is a man who’s desperate for a human connection after suffering PTSD from being in the military and having an abusive ex-wife, which ended in him isolating himself. annalise is trying to look after her brother who’s in rehab, whilst also looking out for everyone else but herself.
the dynamic between these two is perfect. you’ve got annalise who’s a ppl person then u have jason whose very quiet & laid back and bcos of this they work so well together.
if you’re looking for a book filled with deep emotions, hardships, love & an obsessed mmc then this is it. highly recommend!!❤️�
annalise is behind on rent payments & jason suggests that she can work off the debt� on her knees🤭what annalise doesn’t know is jason has had a crush on her for years. but what starts of as just sex ends up personal real quick.
jason is a man who’s desperate for a human connection after suffering PTSD from being in the military and having an abusive ex-wife, which ended in him isolating himself. annalise is trying to look after her brother who’s in rehab, whilst also looking out for everyone else but herself.
the dynamic between these two is perfect. you’ve got annalise who’s a ppl person then u have jason whose very quiet & laid back and bcos of this they work so well together.
if you’re looking for a book filled with deep emotions, hardships, love & an obsessed mmc then this is it. highly recommend!!❤️�
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