ARC Review – Hot Asset by Lauren Layne

Title: Lauren Layne
Author: Hot Asset
Rating: 4 1/2 out of 5 stars
Genre: Romance
Where I got it: ARC from Netgalley

Goodreads Summary

Ian Bradley is the definition of a Wall Street hotshot: seven-figure salary, designer suits, and a corner office. His drive off the floor is just as potent. Every woman who knows him has felt the rush. But now he’s met his match in Lara McKenzie—a woman with the power to bring Ian to his knees.

An ambitious, whip-smart daughter of FBI agents, Lara is a rising star in fighting white-collar crime. Her latest case—the investigation of Ian Bradley for insider trading—could make her career. She knows a scoundrel when she sees one. Ian fits the bill: a cocky, ridiculously handsome bad boy with a slick swagger.

She’ll do anything to prove he’s guilty. He’ll do anything to prove he’s not. But it’s only a matter of time before their fierce battle of wits gets oh so hot and personal. Now, taking down Ian has become more than business for Lara. It’s become a pleasure—and there’s more at risk than she ever dreamed.

Review

I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.

Congratulations, Ms. Layne. I’ve just read the best ARC from Netgalley yet!!

Ian Bradley is a rich man thanks to his skills as stock broker. He learns that he’s been accused on insider trading due to selling some stock before it lost millions. Ian steadfastly professes his innocence to the SEC agent sent to investigate his case – Lara McKenzie – to whom he is immediately attracted.

Lara is dedicated to doing her job by the book and leading a clean and thorough investigation.  Her dream job is to work for the FBI’s White Collar division and both her parents are FBI agents.  She comes to the offices where Ian works to begin her investigation and is met with resistance. That’s to be expected. What is not expected is her intense attraction to Ian.

I loved Ian – he had a rough childhood, went from foster home to foster home and stayed close to his last foster father, Dave. He had a very loyal group of friends, Matt and Kennedy – whom I both hope get their own books – and a great assistant named Kate. I loved Ian’s friends – especially Matt – he was really funny.

Lara is a great character as well. She is determined to do a good job, and by the book. She does her investigation, and things then spiral out of control. She uncovers things, and the drama happens (as it does in every romance). What doesn’t happen in every romance is how well the drama is handled – and in this book, it was handled very well and in a very believable manner.

The ending of this book was very satisfying, and I’m really hoping for at least two more books! I would recommend this one.