The Contract
"That's your fucking job. Figure it out and get it done."Ever work a job where someone you interact with everyday- boss, coworker, vendor - you hope chokes on their sandwich or has a fatal accident with a letter opener? Be prepared: Richard VanRyan is that person. I have disliked the Hero of the story before. However, they have charming qualities that I can overcome douche like behavior. Richard - OMG - he is just an asshole. I mean there would be a moment in the start of the story you'd think he'd be charming then he'd go open his mouth. You want to junk punch him. Yet, you love to hate him. And you just gotta wonder how this contract will all play out with him at the helm.
You may read the synopsis of the story and think, "I've read this trope before." Or this can be your favorite type of storyline. You are in for a very pleasant surprise. Yes, Richard and Katy work together and the contract is the means to an end for both. They will both get what they want and walk away unscathed. Or maybe not... Although Ms Moreland tells the story from a dual POV, it's Richard's POV that keeps you turning the pages to see how this unfolds.
"That's it. You want to fuck someone? Go fuck yourself, VanRyan."
Our heroine, Katy isn't what she seems and helps Richard see the world from a different view point. His character is a study in what nurture develops us into from children to the people we associate with as adults. Can we become 'better humans'? Possibly. Richard's change isn't "Boom, now he's a teddy bear." So stealthy is the change, it's surreptitious to him. For me, to really hate a character and actually root for his HEA proves what a talented writer Ms Moreland is.
This book will bring out the feels. Sometimes stabby, sometimes sad, sometimes happy. The cast of supporting characters bring the Hero and heroine through their journey that can't help loving (most) of them. If you never read Melanie Moreland's novels, I highly recommend this novel. 5 out of 5 'love to hate him' stars.
