Cover Image: The Debt

The Debt

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Member Reviews

Jackie writes some of the best arseholes but with totally redeeming qualities. Ash definitely fits into the mold. I just loved him. Ellie is someone totally new to me, a car designer. Very cool job. Their interactions were off the charts sexy (fans self). I liked the premise of the book but wished there were more too it. It is a short read (one sitting) and would have liked to delve more into their backgrounds and what made them tick. I always consider Jackie an auto-read.

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This is a story about two broken people who in one another find their wholes

Ash Evan may be a billionaire but it is the fact that he was broken that made him such it gave him the drive to struggle for years until he made it and now he gives no quarter to anyone. Ellie Little needs him to give them time so that she can save her fathers automotive business and she will do whatever she needs to get a chance to state her case So she takes a job as his chauffeur and drives him around Paris When he realises who she is he automatically assumes she is trying to use her body to get what she wants and he has a counter offer pretend to be his girlfriend so he can exact revenge on his half brother Only problem it doesn't feel like she is pretending and she could get her heart broken Will Ash also feel the pull of love and is there a chance of a future for these two broken souls

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Wow. I think this is the first I’ve read from this author and I can safely say it won’t be my last. These two broken souls are perfect for each other. He’s fought for everything that matters to him in this life, proving his worth to the world. She’s fought to be seen as an asset to her family’s company, trying to prove her worth to her father. Like puzzle pieces, all of Ash and Ellie’s jagged edges line up to fit together just right. Ellie made me laugh, and Ash made me cry. This book took through the full spectrum of emotions and I can’t wait to go back and do it again.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through NetGalley.

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An intense story of emotionally charged feelings.

From being in tight control and controlling the out comes. To floundering around in a new playing field of admitting to and understanding feelings of love and commitment.

With a happy ever after ending to this romance.

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Wow!!! This book grabbed me right from the first chapter & didn’t let go. Ash & Ellie were explosive, their chemistry was so far off the charts. Author Jackie Ashden had me wondering if there were any redeeming qualities in Ash, as his fierce, angry attitude seemed to be all he was for so long. Ellie was a conundrum of sorts as I first thought her shy, but she’s also a strong willed, not afraid of much, always in the drivers seat woman as well. A favour asked after a night neither will forget, a favour returned in a week of unbridled emotions has these two opening up to each other in ways they never have before. There were so many emotions running through me while reading this book & that’s a sign of a good storyteller. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series. Definitely recommend.

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***I generously received this book from NetGalley***

Ash is a billionaire with a grudge for any and every one. Ellie's family has a company that Ash invested in and it wasn't doing well. So, Ellie decided that she would meet with Ash to see if they could figure some things out. Little did they know their chemistry was undeniable. Ellie did not sugar coat anything for Ash like other people did.

It was an enjoyable book!

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"I like arrogant and bossy and grumpy. And I really like sexy and hot and tattooed."

Yeah, me too! Jackie Ashenden writes the best alpha a-holes. I can't get enough. All it took was seeing her name on the cover for me to want to read this story, she knows how to push all my buttons, every time.

Ash is not only a billionaire, but he's also broken. It was his pain that pushed him to succeed. To prove himself to all those that hurt him. He's convinced that he doesn't need anyone, at least not for any longer than a night. He's used to people being intimidated by his size and his scars, but she's not. She's sweet and sassy he can't stop thinking about her.

She's determined to save her father's company and talking to Ash Evans is the only way to make that happen. Yes, her approach is unconventional, but so is she. She was raised by her father and brothers so opinionated men don't scare her. His bad temper and sharp tongue shouldn't turn her on, but they do. Everyone always says not to poke the bear, but she can't resist doing it every chance she gets.

This story was so entertaining. I kinda have a girl crush on her for how she handled Ash. Their banter was so much fun because she kept surprising him. He would purposely provoke her and she wouldn't do what he expected. I loved it!

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This is a quick read, but entertaining, and steamy. This is the story Ellie, who wants to help her father keep one of his important investors, Ash. She takes a job as a chauffeur, and sparks fly when these two meet. This was a fun read, enjoyable, sexy, and fast. 3.5 Stars

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The thing about a good romance is that even though you ultimately know where it's going to end up, it's the getting there that is so enjoyable. The Debt certainly was a good romance and I enjoyed every second of it.
I have to admit that I like a damaged hero and Ash is certainly damaged. Not only has he got a face marred by knife scars from his youth, streetfighting, but rejection from his father and a fallout with his half brother has left him emotionally damaged. Ellie has her own issues with the loss of her mother at a young age and a father who is at best emotionally stunted (actually, he's an arsehole, if the truth be told). But when they come together, the passion between them helps them move beyond their past.
I really loved the chemistry between these two. It was easy to see how drawn to one another they were. Ash tried hard to be ruthless and uncaring, but underneath his bravado, he was clearly nothing of the sort. I also really liked how they were both able to bring out the best in each other.
This was quite a quick read, but one that I really enjoyed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Every ridiculous romance novel cliche EVER is present in this book, I swear. Not worth the time.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this.

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I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I have hit a bump on my reading journey lately. The last books I have picked are more in the forgettable side of the spectrum. I was aware that my quest to get rid of the NetGalley ARCs I requested would bring some less interesting stories, but the last one I reviewd totally killed my reading mood. I needed something unexpected and that is what I have got with the next ARC on the list. Simple, direct, entertaining… less flourishes and more sustancial bites.

We follow the adventures of Ellie, a supercar designer (I guess that’s a thing…) who works in her family business. A company that is going through tough times and it is about to lose one of the most important investors. So, the resourceful designer comes with the plan to become the chauffeur of the investor to get some alone time with him to smooth things over. The investor is not other than Ash, the arrogant and sexy billionaire who eats princesses for breakfast…Thankfully, Ellie is far from one!!

The story is nothing new in Romance (hard to invent new plots in such a crowded genre), but it is presented alomost perfectly. The heroes have a clear mission, one to save the investment and the other to buy some islands. Both quests are important to them, so I am very glad that the author didn’t forget about those plot threads as soon as they get naked. Too many times, the story just become an excuse to just tell the romance. Reading otherwise makes me grateful for picking the book. Even though it is a short book, I have read even shorter ones that get stuck and are incapable of going forward. In this case, every single chapters takes us one step further, so there are no dull moments tempting my skipping skills. Perfect pace for a light reading!

I enjoyed the exchanges between the main characters, but I must admit I was expecting more fire. Ash is a pretty rude guy, with no filter who just say whatever he pleases without worrying about the receptor’s feelings. Due to his position, noone is brave enough to tell him to be gentler. But Ellie doesn’t take his bullshit and fights him every step of the way (which is what made him attracted to her). Taking that into account, I would have expected more banter, more funny or absurd conversations to proof who is tougher. I think the book misses too many chances of making us laugh. I know is not sold as a Romantic Comedy book, but the setting was so good for one that I am a bit sad that we didn’t get at least a couple of funny moments.

The anojoyable story could have been easily ruined with badly handle characters. But it is not the case. Both of them are pretty cool, with enough dark corners to keep us engaged, but not too much to make them unrealistic. Ash is what in the Romance genre is called a bully: arrogant, rude, insensitive, bossy… A cold-hearted bastard. That kind of character can be a pain to read if you are not careful, but this billionaire with the fighter body and the sexy facial scars (yes, those can be hot too… haven’t you met Geralt de Rivia?) is pretty well balanced and we soon learn that there is a heart beating inside that hardened surface. Enough to be able to sympathtize with him, because, in my book, 100% bullies don’t get my support. It helps that opposite him he has a strong woman who doesn’t take any of his bullshit just because he poops dollars.

They are not perfect. Actually, since the beginning I just wanted to yell at them due to the stupidity both of them were sporting proudly. Ash because he thinks the world spins around him and has wasted half of his life trying to avenge his mother’s trust… Have you heard the expression “hug it out“? Seriously, bro… way cheaper. And Ellie… How can a character with such strong persoanlity belive that she was the one to blame for the current money problems of the company? I know family is important, but her dad is pure poison and she should know it… being a modern woman and all. I’m glad she found Ash and someone was honest with her. Sometimes brutish is better than soft mannered.

All in all, the romance was great. With small steps at a time and a hopeful ending. Not the copy/paste I’m always afraid of. Also, the sex scenes are really great. Sweet when they need to be and naughty when they call for it. With a very soft dominant undertone that is thousands of time hotter than going full steam with the BDSM concept that is sadly horribly used in too many cases.

I wasn’t expecting to like this book that much. It has replenished my energy to face the ARCs that I have yet to read. I will have to check more books written by this factor, because I have truly enjoyed her direct way of telling the story.

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I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I am already a Jackie Ashenden fan and love her books, and this one is no different. I love how she has the story from both characters. Ash is a angry man, having been disappointment from many people in his life. He crawled his way up from street fighting to become a billionaire and is working his way to buy some islands that his half brother wants as well, but it comes with a catch. He needs to show the current owner that he is in a relationship. Enter Ellie. She took a job as his limo driver in order to talk to him about the investment he gave her family business which is coming soon and they need an extension. Soon, sparks fly between them and they come to an agreement. He will look into extending the payment if she pretends to be his girlfriend.
Great book! Can't wait to read more from her! Would recommend reading this book

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It was an okay read. The description was what initially caught my attention and the story played out pretty much as expected. The only real issue I have is that the book was written in first person narrative, which is a pet peeve of mine. I prefer third person. But other than that it was an enjoyable read.

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Firstly, this is a very well written romance, as usual, by this author. There are a few erotic sex scenes described in detail - so be aware of that. I liked the connection between Ellie and Ash, as it literally sizzled at times. There was a bit of a back story (eg the reason for them getting together), but this was really about our couple and the romance. I mostly liked the characterizations, (especially that of Ash), but I wasn't convinced about Ellie's. She was written as an Australian, but to my mind her speech was a bit too 'ocker' and felt contrived at times. Some of my contemporaries talk a bit like this - I'm a Granny - and it's the sort of speech I hear from mostly older people. I've yet to hear a "G'day Mate" come out of either of my two '30 something' daughters' lips - and Ellie is only 25. I did like her plain way of talking though, quite refreshing in a romance. I recommend this steamy little book as it will take you away from reality for a few hours. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. 3.5 stars.

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Ellie Little needs to convince billionaire Ash Evans to give her dads company an extension on the investment he made. When all else fails, she takes up a job as his chauffeur on his visit to Paris. She just needed to find the right time to speak to him, but she didn’t expect sparks to fly the minute they met. And now he wants her to pretend to be his girlfriend to clinch a business deal.
I absolutely adored this book and Ash and Ellie. They are 2 amazing and complex characters with deep rooted issues, and those made them understand and support each other so much better. The attraction between them was sizzling hot, am surprised my kindle didn’t burn :). My only complaint is that the epilogue felt a little rush. But other than that I absolutely loved reading this quick paced story.

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First let me say I love love love Jackie Ashenden and anything that she turns out usually has my vote. Now that being said, The Debt is no exception. The only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the title. I don’t really think it fit in the long run of things but that’s just my opinion.

Ash Evans is a scarred, bad boy who takes zero attitude from anyone. Most people bend to his will pretty easily and he’s earned everything he’s gotten for himself in life. Much to the chagrin of his biological father and half brother. Yes, that little tit-bit through him for a small loop, especially after becoming good friends with his brother before knowing who he was. After that though reversal of fortune, all bets were off and Ash made a name for himself without them.

Ellie Little has been trying to get her father to see her great ideas to advance their company for years. Too bad he just thinks she is a good worker and nothing more. Being the youngest and the only girl, she’s had it rough since her mom died. She decides to take matters into her own hands and go undercover as the chauffer to the bigwig looking to take over the company. She can do this, save her family’s company and maybe her dad will give her the credit she is due, finally.

Ash isn’t fooled by Ellie’s little rouse and quickly realizes he needs her help to pull off a major blindside against his brother. They are both looking to buy an island property but the seller is looking for someone to raise they family there. Not a swinging bachelor like Ash. He convinces Ellie to pose as his girlfriend to secure his purchase of the islands from out of his brother’s grasp.

Over it all, Ellie and Ash realizes their attraction to one another. Ash figures out who she is and what her company is all about and helps her realize her dreams. They agree the arrangement is only temporary but when time is up, are they really over?

Another 5 star awesome read from Ms. Ashenden I voluntarily read and reviewed without expectations. Any and all opinions expressed, are my own.

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I usually like Jackie Ashenden's books but this was not a favorite of mine. I just could not get into this books, the characters did not do it for me and the story line seemed to have been missing something.

Its an ok read with good writing

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Well-written quality romance with great depth of the story, well-developed plot and great characters. There were less sex scenes than I expected, but I didn't miss them.

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This was an okay book. It's a quick read, and the main characters were interesting, but there wasn't much to set it apart. It was very formulaic and it was pretty clear what was going to happen the whole time.
Unfortunately, Ellie's endless car references were at times annoying. Theconstant car metaphors got to be a bit grating since she was describing Ash, her partner. I understand that she was very car focused, but it got to be distracting.
This is good for someone wants a quick romantic read, or for someone who is really interested in cars.

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A woman determined to save her family business agrees to pose as the girlfriend of a notoriously ruthless billionaire and finds herself developing real feelings for him.

Ellie Little needs a favor from Ash Evans, so she takes a job as his chauffeur in order to get close to him. Ash Evans is a ruthless billionaire who revels in his reputation as a former streetfighter.
He makes no apologies for who he is or how he acts. Ash agrees, but demands a favor in return: Ellie must pose as his girlfriend to help one of his business deals. When real feelings begin to develop, will Ellie and Ash be able to walk away unscathed?

Ashenden delivers a fun and sexy romance with two amazing and complex characters. Ash and Ellie both had their struggles but they both had an inner strength that helped them overcome their pasts. Their banter was great and natural, you could feel the connection between the two. Unfortunately, the story falls short in its development of their relationship, with the pair jumping from being in a fake relationship to being together for real rather suddenly. The storyline moved quickly and at times felt rushed. It hinted at issues between Ellie and her father but this thread is never fully developed as Ellie barely speaks with her father throughout the book. Their interactions near the end of the book felt not quite right, because there was little exploration into the relationship that could explain the change in her father.

This was my first time reading a book from this author and I found it to be an interesting and enjoyable read that could have had more to its plot. Where it lacked depth in storyline, it made up for in its deep and real hero and heroine. It is a good book that I would recommend to those who enjoy fun, quick reads.

ARC received from NetGalley.

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