I know this is a controversial option, but I wasn't the biggest fan of this one. I went into this book having seen raving reviews about it, but I was sad that they didn't measure up. The MMCs behavior was completely unrealistic and that really irked me. I know that this book isn't supposed to be realistic, but when the MMC punched guys for talking to the FMC when they just started talking it just seemed very far-fetched. I also wasn't the biggest fan of how he would pursue her but then got mad that she was mad he was also pursing others. All in all, this book wasn't for me, but I know a lot of other people loved it so you may too.

This Audiobook was narrated by Shakira Shute. It was my first audiobook by her and it won't be the last, she did a good job.

Thank you NetGalley for this ALC in exchange for my honest review.

From the beginning, we meet Amelia, who is portrayed as this career-focused, powerful woman who is about to turn 30 and is on her way to celebrate with a spa day at one of the most posh spas outside London. She is fresh out of a relationship that was no longer serving her and despite her family pushing their misogynistic views on her and refusing to treat her as an equal in their finance company, she went over their heads and made a name for herself at a rival company and is on the fast track to partner. With a clear and bright path into her 30s, she is ready to take on the next steps in her life and career.
So when she finds the most handsome, alluring, striking man at the hotel bar of the spa and they can't seem to keep their eyes off of each other, to say she is rattled by him is an understatement. Jude Harrison is the owner of the hotel and spa and instantly obsessed with her. After their first meeting she can't seem to get him off of her mind, but he starts continually show up in her life, to the point of harassing her and somehow she finds his behavior endearing? It only gets worse as the story goes on and the more aggressive he is the more submissive she becomes - and not in a sexy way. She loses who she is at her core while trying to accommodate what he wants from her. She loses her head and her voice in the worst moments and is so clouded by chemistry, she blissfully ignores the red flags until they can't be ignored any longer.
I wanted to love this so much because I've read Jodi Ellen Malpas before and even though she writes dark suspenseful romance, this felt like it was under developed and missed the mark. Lacking a tangible direction and never really endearing us to the MMC, all of his behavior is cringy from the start. From stealing her information and calling her incessantly, to the unmitigated aggression that is not protective in the slightest but just plain possessive and harmful - his behavior is problematic. When his aggression gets even worse and she tries to leave - it was hard to continue reading as she proceeded to excuse the purposeless violence and give even more of herself to someone who isn't even close of being worthy of her. He lies and gaslights her by using their physical chemistry to subdue her into falling for his story - over and over.
This story was left on a cliffhanger that didn't feel like one. And it's disheartening to think what could happen in the second book, knowing how much she has dimmed her own light to accommodate his. I sincerely hope that Jodi is able to really pull this one around somehow in the second book and I'll be waiting to see how it turns out since I'm already invested - but if someone asked me to recommend this book - I would have to say no. There are so many other examples of Jodi's work that are far and away better than whatever this was.

Overall, this is a good listen, and I had to finish it. But there were moments when I was yelling back at the characters. They infuriated me at points. I was a tad annoyed with Amelia - like, just stop running for a minute and hear the man out! If you are so concerned with the back and forth of things, you need to stop and listen to him. And Jude, he certainly needed a little more depth for me to truly fall for his Jude-ness. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I wasn’t overly convinced by their attraction and how hard Amelia had fallen for Jude. Maybe more will be revealed in the next book? But I’m debating whether it is worth it, or if it will be more of the same. The audiobook, narrated by Shakira Shute, was a decent listen. It definitely drew me into the story more and made it easier to finish. I don’t know if I would have finished the book without listening to it.
⭐️Playboy billionaire MMC
⭐️Revenge romance
⭐️British hero
⭐️Ends on a cliffhanger?

This relationship was so toxic. OMG. I cannot. I was pissed the entire time. Then the ending? I don't know why I expected anything less. Will I read book 2? Unfortunately, yeah, I will.

The Invitation captivates from the very first page. It’s not just a tale—it’s an experience, one that grips your heart and refuses to let go. The characters are masterfully written, layered with complexity and vulnerability, pulling you into their world with every decision and every revelation. The cliffhanger is unexpected and complex. Sharika Shute brings the characters to life with a depth and nuance that is genuinely captivating. Looking forward to book 2.

The Invitation follows the story of Jude and Amelia. From the moment they meet, Jude is completely captivated by her and will stop at nothing to win her over, even just for a simple dinner. Although their physical relationship develops rather quickly, the emotional buildup felt like a slow burn, which I personally appreciated.

The chemistry between them is electric. The spicy scenes are steamy, intense, and had me both giggling and blushing. The massage scene in particular? Absolutely unforgettable.

The ending took me completely by surprise. A major cliffhanger left me frustrated in the best way, and I was immediately wishing the sequel was already available. I finished the book with so many feelings, especially toward Jude, and I’m eager to see what happens next.

My heart broke for Amelia. Her family was controlling and unsupportive, constantly dismissing her autonomy and pushing their own agenda, especially when it came to her love life. They even continued inviting her ex-boyfriend over despite her objections, which was incredibly frustrating to witness.

This story is told entirely from Amelia’s point of view, which made her emotional journey feel even more personal and raw. I listened to the audiobook while reading and absolutely loved the narration—it really brought the characters to life.

This was a fast, engaging read with a writing style that made it easy to fly through in one sitting. I really enjoyed it and would rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

This is the first installment in the Arlington Hall series. Amelia and Jude’s story is captivating, and complex, filled with intrigue, passion, tension, and secrets. Jude, intense and enigmatic, is both jealous and possessive, while Amelia is beautiful and strong. Their instant attraction is undeniable, and the sparks between them are electric. The story ends on a cliffhanger, and I’m looking forward to listening to the next in the series. Shakira Shute has a beautiful voice and brings the characters and their emotions to life with nuance.

The Invitation is book 1 in Jodi Ellen Malpas's new series, Arlington Hall. Another hit by this author. This is a steamy page turner from start to finish and it does end in a cliffhanger. I listened to this book, and it was brought to life by Sharika Shute, she nailed every voice magnificently. Before you read or listen to this book, prepare for a rollercoaster, angst a possessive MMC.

I loved the FMC Amelia, she is strong willed and career driven women in a man dominant world. Starting with her father who has old-fashioned views of a woman’s place. Amelia’s friends are great touch to the book because they are easy to relate to and it’s if you are there with them enjoying a spa day.
I need book 2 asap. Tha
nk you to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Brilliance Audio for providing a copy of this audiobook. All thoughts/ opinions are honest and my own.

4.5 stars

This had me throwing the book across the room when I found out it ended on a cliffhanger but only because I was hooked and need the next one now 😭

This book reminded me of the old school romance novels with the alpha males with lots of red flags like Gideon Cross and Christian Grey. It was such a refreshing change as I haven’t read a romance like this in SO LONG. I highly highly recommend. It’s single POV from the FMC but there needs to be! Jude has secrets and I need to know what they are NOW! I loved this book. I read the book and listened to the audiobook. I thought the audio was great and I couldn’t stop listening

Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for my ALC!
I haven't read many JEM books, but when I read the blurb to this one I jumped on it. I didn't realise that this is part of a series when I started reading so I wasn't expecting the huge cliff-hanger at the end. But I'm not disappointed because that means more Jude and no one can be sad about that. I absolutely loved every single second of this book, Jude and Amelia have this amazing chemistry, I loved Jude's possessiveness, his dominant ways and how there's so much more to him than we have learnt at the moment. I can't wait for the next book in this series and to see where their story is going to go.
I listened to the audiobook and Shakira Shute did a fantastic job of bringing these characters and this story to life, she was a pleasure to listen to and I hope she does the narration for the next book.

Jodi Ellen Malpas is back with The Invitation, the first book in a new duet, and it's everything you'd expect from the queen of intense, enigmatic billionaires. Narrated by Shakira Shute, this audiobook promises a scalding romance where not everything is as it seems.

The story kicks off with Amelia Lazenby, an ambitious career woman in desperate need of a break. Her friends whisk her away to Arlington Hall, a posh country spa, for a day of pampering. But relaxation quickly turns to red-hot anticipation when she encounters the flawlessly rugged Jude Harrison. Their steam room meet-cute sets the stage for an instant, undeniable chemistry that jumps right off the pages (or, in this case, out of the speakers!). And let me tell you, when IYKYK, the "foreplay" here is chefs kiss.

Amelia is strong, driven, and focused on her career, but Jude's sudden presence derails her perfectly organized life. He's mysterious, arrogant, possessive, and frankly, a walking red flag. Yet, his relentless pursuit of Amelia is utterly captivating. While Amelia needs a distraction from her work-obsessed life, Jude gives her that and so much more.

Jude Harrison is the kind of character you love to hate and hate to love. He provoked seriously conflicting emotions in me. One minute I was completely drawn to him, the next I was shaking my head, questioning his aggressive and sometimes downright rude behavior. He’s definitely an intense character with a formidable temper. However, there’s a subtle vulnerability beneath his hard exterior, and I just know he's hiding something big. I'm holding out hope for some serious redemption in book two!

As always with Jodi, the secondary characters shine. Amelia's girlfriends are a riot – I totally want to join their girl squad! There are some genuinely hilarious moments, especially one involving Amelia's parents and some flowers that had me laughing out loud.

As this is the first part of a duet, it's tough to give a complete judgment, but there's no denying this book delivers those signature Jodi Ellen Malpas vibes. If you're a fan of her previous works, you'll feel right at home with The Invitation. It sets up an intriguing mystery around Jude that will leave you desperate for the next installment.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Thank you so very much for this wonderful story. It made me cry at the end. The characters are amazingly written and it draws you in u til the end

The song hey Jude is still right going in my head
I want to hug him yet I want to strangle him
I sure bet he smells and looks divine

Amelia , sweet Amelia. I wish you the best in the quest for this lovely man. He has got you reeling in an amazing way. Can you keep up with his tactics?

I cannot wait until book number 2 in Sept ember to be swept away again

I listened to this book in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. It was so freaking good. I absolutely adore Amelia. She is so kind and caring. She is a good friend and very sure of what she wants which is so refreshing. I loved how persistent Jude was in his endeavor to win over Amelia. I really hope we get Judes perspective in the next book. Once coming to the cliff hanger you understand why it's not given thus far. Can't wait for book 2. Thanks for the opportunity to listen to it.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶

Thank you Jodi Ellen Malpas, Brilliance Publishing and Netgalley for my gifted audiobook! 🫶🏻

The Invitation sweeps you into a world of desire, luxury, and heart-pounding emotion.

Amelia is everything we root for in a heroine. She's fierce, career-driven, and radiates confidence. But when Jude enters the picture, that cool composure starts to melt. Their passion is off the charts, with a magnetic pull you can’t resist. The steam practically rises from the pages, and Champagne takes on an entirely new meaning. 🍾🔥

Jude's pursuit of Amelia is nothing short of thrilling. He’ll have your pulse racing and cheeks tingling with every move. Those belly flutters? They’re real..

Of course, it wouldn’t be Jodi Ellen Malpas without those perfectly placed emotional gut-punches. The angst hits deep, the twists land hard, and just when you think you’re safe.. boom! Jaw dropped. Breath held. That moment will live rent-free in your mind.

🎧 Shakira Shute’s narration? Flawless. She brings every moment to life with stunning emotion and a pitch-perfect accent that adds delicious depth to the story. 🎧

⚠️ Just a heads-up: cliffhanger alert! September can't come fast enough.

📚 Devour it in one sitting and get ready to swoon. You’ll be obsessed!

🗝Quote🗝

“Don’t waste time trying to prove others right. You’re the head of your own personal boardroom, Amelia. Choose who you invite into that room carefully.”

The Invitation is book 1 ion Jodi Ellen Malpas's new series, Arlington Hall. These are meant to be read I order and I highly recommend doing so. This book leaves on a cliffy.....I need book 2 , The Surrender ASAP.

Why you will love this book:
-British, Alpha Hero
-Tortured Lead
-Obsession
-Billionaire
-Strong FMC
-Secrets and mysteries

I listened to this on audio with a brilliant performance by Shakira Shute. Her many voices lead had me falling for this new to me narrator. I absolutely found her to be so talented and loved her voice performance. Not only did she keep me engaged in the story, but her emotional scenes were executed perfectly. This is a single narrator who had so many different voices and I had no trouble discerning who was who. She absolutely nailed this performance. A truly fabulous production and I am excited to get book 2.

I have adored Jodi's books for so many years. From her This Man Series to her Unlawful Men, Jodi's writing sings to my soul and her tortured men are some of my absolute favorite book boyfriends. That is no different than this new series and Jude. I get the feeling we are only touching the surface of who this man is. The end scene had me stressing out so much and Jodi can write a character that I absolute abhors! Then we get Amelia who I fell for immediately. I love a strong female character and one who stands up for herself. Both Amelia and Jude together are fire and again....the end shocked me. I am sooooo looking forward to see if certain people can redeem themselves. If you loved This Man, you will definitely love this series. I cannot recommend it enough.

The narrator did a fantastic job with the different characters, and I enjoyed her voice a lot. The Invitation was a good story that had a surprising twist to it. The attraction was there from the beginning between Amelia and Jude but some of their interactions were a bit exhausting at times. There was a lot of back and forth between the two of them that I could have done without and Jude's possessiveness was over the top at times. I enjoyed Amelia's mom Jenn, her brother Clark and best friends Charley and Abbie. I didn't care for Amelia's dad Dennis and his beliefs that women should only have two jobs, and that is having babies and being in the kitchen. Jude and Katherine had me shocked with what they revealed at the end of the story. In a way it made no sense to me because Jude was about to claim he loved Amelia when he didn't need to because he had already won. The one thing that stopped this story from being a 5-star story for me was all of the back and forth because it seemed to happen throughout the whole story. However, I'm looking forward to the next book to know how everything plays out between Jude, Amelia, Katherine and Nick because I have a feeling that after everything Katherine and Nick will still fight for who they want. I also think Abbie's dream man is the other Harrison brother and I'm excited to find out if I'm right. Anyways, this story has great characters and friendships, attraction, chemistry, possessiveness, back and forth, steamy scenes, jealousy and ends with a that you won't see coming.

Amelia and Jude fall into insta-love. Which I normally don't like. But this author makes it so hot and believable I was all for it. Jude has a temper that he beefs to reign in. I wonder if he calms by the end of the series?

4 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and Brilliance Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Jude and Amelia - Whew what a crazy couple! This is a duet so I’m waiting for the second book to be published to see how this couple end up. This is a tortured red flag kind of toxic love. I’ve read the This Man series by the author and she does not make things easy for her characters. What a ride. I enjoyed the narration on the audio book I received and binge listened to it in a day. Thank you so much for the ALC provided by Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and NetGalley.

Can character reduction be a thing? Explain to me how a woman about to make parter is crashing on someone's couch after a break up. Every character was insufferable. No HEA but instead opted to end the story in another book, which I will not be partaking in because they are so toxic and destructive for each other that I want them to stay broken up. Someone needs to teach this FMC how to block numbers

I am soooo glad to be back in the JEM universe! I listened to the audiobook of The Invitation and while I normally avoid audiobooks with only one narrator, this narrator truly did a great job with both parts! I would listen to this over and over again tbh.

The Invitation was definitely giving me JEM vibes. If I didn't already know who wrote it, I'd be able to tell by the man obsessed aspect haha. I truly enjoyed the story. I was loving seeing the FMC be receiving the affection from the MMC. Things were definitely put into perspective at the end of the book but whewww these two were hot!! I need the next book IMMEDIATELY.