The Invitation by Vi Keeland (2020) Something borrowed. Something you.
Standalone Romance
I chose this book purely by the book cover, it is HOT! A gorgeous, suited man, looking down as he buttoned his suit jacket – there was something naughty about the pic and the main character Hudson Rothschild sure has a naughty streak, often bordering on mean.
The invitation is told from the POV of the two main characters: Hudson and Stella. Although, the story really feels like Stella’s because it contains flashbacks to her past and includes interactions with her best friend Fisher, whereas Hudson’s story usually revolves around his interactions with Stella.
The story is about learning to love again after a broken heart, I also think it is about sticking it out, even if the person is being a dick. There are misunderstandings and an unknown connected history. And then there is Stella. Stella is the perfect heroine for the modern woman: an excellent entrepreneurial businesswoman, who takes risks, is focused, confident and brave. She is also willing to take a lot of shit off Hudson, till the story became the romantic tale, I was waiting for.
And here lies my problem. The author did brilliantly; placed me square into Stella’s shoes and I wondered:
Would I be willing to date a man, if he had embarrassed me in front of a room full of people? Would I, if he didn’t call me back after inviting me out for dinner? Would I, if he made me wait for two whole days, till he was ready to see me? Hudson has a huge ego and a past that makes him wary of woman and their intentions, however Stella does not know this. I had to conclude the physical attraction/ emotional connection made up for all his childishness.
Once they spent more time together and the love story unfolded, I liked Hudson more than just his pretty face and I was glad Stella had persevered because he became the romantic hero Stella deserved. It is a great story, I really enjoyed it and recommend reading it. I just didn’t enjoy the uncomfortable feeling in my stomach that perhaps Stella deserved more.