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The Weekday Brides #2
Married by Monday
Carter Billings:
Sandy blond hair and Hollywood good looks, Carter Billings could have any woman he wants. However, when he makes his bid for the Governor's seat in the state of California, he needs to settle down and become a family man. Eliza, the woman he secretly adores, embodies the perfect amount of spice and passion to suit his marital needs, but she's not interested in becoming Mrs. Billings. She can't even stand to be in the same room with him.
Eliza Havens:
It's much easier to drive Carter away than to give into desire. Matching couples is how she earns a living, but getting married isn't an option. The secrets she carries are too dangerous to entangle anyone else. When her hidden identity and past threaten her future, she's left with little choice. Carter is quick to offer solutions to both their problems, but saying yes could mean endangering the man she's growing to love.
Sandy blond hair and Hollywood good looks, Carter Billings could have any woman he wants. However, when he makes his bid for the Governor's seat in the state of California, he needs to settle down and become a family man. Eliza, the woman he secretly adores, embodies the perfect amount of spice and passion to suit his marital needs, but she's not interested in becoming Mrs. Billings. She can't even stand to be in the same room with him.
Eliza Havens:
It's much easier to drive Carter away than to give into desire. Matching couples is how she earns a living, but getting married isn't an option. The secrets she carries are too dangerous to entangle anyone else. When her hidden identity and past threaten her future, she's left with little choice. Carter is quick to offer solutions to both their problems, but saying yes could mean endangering the man she's growing to love.
285 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2012
About the author
Catherine Bybee
51 books20.7k followersNew York Times Bestselling Author
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
USA Today Bestselling Author
#1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Amazon #1 Bestselling Author
#1 IndieReader Bestselling Author
RONE Award Winner 2012
Not Quite Dating
Married by Monday
RONE award Winner 2013
Not Quite Enough
Winner of the More Than Magic Award for Paranormal romance 2011
Silent Vows
Finalist RT Award in Contemporary Romance
Fiance by Friday
New York Times bestselling author Catherine Bybee was raised in Washington State, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Southern California with hopes of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full-time and has penned the International Bestselling Not Quite series, the MacCoinnich Time Travel series as well as the Internationally Bestselling Weekday Brides series.
Her books have been translated in over twenty languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 783 reviews
June 29, 2019
O poveste de dragoste și chiar mai mult de atât! O poveste plină de adrenalină, suspans și multe răsturnări de situație. Pericolele îi pun din greu la încercare pe cei doi protagoniști. Eliza și Carter au luptat împreună, au realizat profunzimea sentimentelor care îi unesc și au câștigat o viață fericită împreună.
March 29, 2013
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★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Tanya Eby does another nice job here; I liked her female voice for Eliza and her English accent for Blake’s sister, Gwen*. I could also tell when a character was thinking something and not saying it aloud. I’m not crazy over her male voices, even though she can handle them within her alto range. But, then, most female readers can’t satisfy me on that front.
The “bickering” between the hero and heroine was kept to a minimum at the beginning of the book and there was some fun dialogue between them throughout. Nevertheless, while I liked this book, I don’t think it was a much fun as Wife by Wednesday. However, that may be a personal issue, as I am not crazy over politicians, and Carter certainly was one. He never completely won me over, not 100%.
I did like the twist on Eliza’s background, but would have like a little firmer reason for their marriage.
Looking forward to the next in this series.
*Blake was the hero in Wife by Wednesday, the first in the series.
Titles Out on Audio -
<--coming out August, 2013. (In print in May.)
★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Tanya Eby does another nice job here; I liked her female voice for Eliza and her English accent for Blake’s sister, Gwen*. I could also tell when a character was thinking something and not saying it aloud. I’m not crazy over her male voices, even though she can handle them within her alto range. But, then, most female readers can’t satisfy me on that front.
The “bickering” between the hero and heroine was kept to a minimum at the beginning of the book and there was some fun dialogue between them throughout. Nevertheless, while I liked this book, I don’t think it was a much fun as Wife by Wednesday. However, that may be a personal issue, as I am not crazy over politicians, and Carter certainly was one. He never completely won me over, not 100%.
I did like the twist on Eliza’s background, but would have like a little firmer reason for their marriage.
Looking forward to the next in this series.
*Blake was the hero in Wife by Wednesday, the first in the series.
Titles Out on Audio -
June 2, 2012
Ok, 4.5 but so close it doesn't really count...
Catherine Bybee books are the reason normal, work-a-day people love to read. They will always deliver a great story, a sizzling fun romance and a way to escape the dolldrums of the moment and fall in love all over again!
In this, the second in a series, we get to know the fiesty partner in the marriage making business, Eliza, along with her nemesis/crush, Carter Billings. The sparks are combustible each and every time they hit the page together but Eliza holds a secret that keeps her from getting too close to anyone, most of all, Carter.
I love that this book isn't just another remake of the first in the series, "Wife by Wednesday". It takes a completely differnt plot turn while still holding on to the basic premise that makes these stories so addictive. In this installment, we find a strong Romantic Suspense element that allows for more exploration and depth in the characters. It takes a while to warm to Eliza, she comes across rather harsh at first, but once the layers start to peel away, we find a rich resevoir of understanding that warms us to her character and keeps us rooting for her happily-ever-after.
I also like that Bybee didn't paint the characters as all bad - or all good for that matter. Carter was good but not so good that he didn't do what he had to do to work the system, making him believable as a politician and as a person.
For those of us who insist on analyzing plot twists and motive, the ending may be slightly frustrating, but
for pure unadulterated fun, beach-read, get-away, enjoyment this one is hard to beat!
Catherine Bybee books are the reason normal, work-a-day people love to read. They will always deliver a great story, a sizzling fun romance and a way to escape the dolldrums of the moment and fall in love all over again!
In this, the second in a series, we get to know the fiesty partner in the marriage making business, Eliza, along with her nemesis/crush, Carter Billings. The sparks are combustible each and every time they hit the page together but Eliza holds a secret that keeps her from getting too close to anyone, most of all, Carter.
I love that this book isn't just another remake of the first in the series, "Wife by Wednesday". It takes a completely differnt plot turn while still holding on to the basic premise that makes these stories so addictive. In this installment, we find a strong Romantic Suspense element that allows for more exploration and depth in the characters. It takes a while to warm to Eliza, she comes across rather harsh at first, but once the layers start to peel away, we find a rich resevoir of understanding that warms us to her character and keeps us rooting for her happily-ever-after.
I also like that Bybee didn't paint the characters as all bad - or all good for that matter. Carter was good but not so good that he didn't do what he had to do to work the system, making him believable as a politician and as a person.
For those of us who insist on analyzing plot twists and motive, the ending may be slightly frustrating, but
for pure unadulterated fun, beach-read, get-away, enjoyment this one is hard to beat!
May 29, 2012
I have been waiting for this book release since reading Wife by Wednesday. I have been cheering Catherine on via Twitter and following her writing process has been amazing. So excited this was released a few days early. This book is such a quick exciting read, I was able to finish it before the official release date.
Catherine did not disappoint with her blend of love, intrigue and mystery. I found myself holding my breath waiting just like the characters for the next surprise whether it be sex, murder or conflict Catherine has you on the edge of your seat begging for more. I get a sense she may be leading us into a third book and I am hopping I am right about Gwen and Neil. This book delivered by delving into more of the family made of friends but what I really loved was that she balanced it with old and new characters. Catherine please make this a trilogy. How about Sinning by Saturday, Spouse by Sunday, Ties by Tuesday…..????
Catherine did not disappoint with her blend of love, intrigue and mystery. I found myself holding my breath waiting just like the characters for the next surprise whether it be sex, murder or conflict Catherine has you on the edge of your seat begging for more. I get a sense she may be leading us into a third book and I am hopping I am right about Gwen and Neil. This book delivered by delving into more of the family made of friends but what I really loved was that she balanced it with old and new characters. Catherine please make this a trilogy. How about Sinning by Saturday, Spouse by Sunday, Ties by Tuesday…..????
July 1, 2018
Eliza Havens and Carter Billings have been bickering since they met at a wedding of their best friends. They see each other occasionally and always end up in an argument. When Carter rescues Eliza and her friend from some low-life at a cowboy bar, the whole fight is caught on video. The internet is buzzing since Carter is a candidate for Governor. His best chance of getting into office is to get married and play the family man. The woman he wants for his wife...Eliza Havens. Eliza is stunned when Carter proposes to her. She feels responsible for his troubles, but turns him down. She has a reason to stay out of the limelight...a secret she can't tell anyone.
The second book in the Weekday Brides series is even better than the first. When Eliza confides her secret to Carter and her friends, the story starts moving very fast. This is a good contemporary romance "marriage of convenience" story that sets up the next book in the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
The second book in the Weekday Brides series is even better than the first. When Eliza confides her secret to Carter and her friends, the story starts moving very fast. This is a good contemporary romance "marriage of convenience" story that sets up the next book in the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
February 27, 2013
As most of you know by now, I am a wholehearted romantic. I had the first book in this series, but hadn't had an opportunity to read it. Then this tour came along and gave me my chance. So, I read the first book and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to seeing what book 2 had in store for me. I really liked this book. It had all the romance and more.
One of things I liked the most about this book was Eliza's unexpected background. I would have never guessed that her back story was so interesting. I liked her in the first book, but we only see the surface of her character. Eliza is deeper than I thought she would be. She is a little spunky and funny when she allows it, but she is definitely a thinker. She has to be. I really enjoyed getting to know her.
I knew when I met Carter in book one that he would have a story. He's not in the first book much, but he definitely had a strong presence. What I liked about Carter was that he was the one to really pursue Eliza. He is a powerful political figure trying to reach even higher ground, but he still manages to put his life first. It was impressive. I also love how protective he was of Eliza. She was his first priority. I loved that.
The second books in the series can sometimes be a little lacking, but I actually enjoyed this book more than the first. I love all of the characters in the series and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
One of things I liked the most about this book was Eliza's unexpected background. I would have never guessed that her back story was so interesting. I liked her in the first book, but we only see the surface of her character. Eliza is deeper than I thought she would be. She is a little spunky and funny when she allows it, but she is definitely a thinker. She has to be. I really enjoyed getting to know her.
I knew when I met Carter in book one that he would have a story. He's not in the first book much, but he definitely had a strong presence. What I liked about Carter was that he was the one to really pursue Eliza. He is a powerful political figure trying to reach even higher ground, but he still manages to put his life first. It was impressive. I also love how protective he was of Eliza. She was his first priority. I loved that.
The second books in the series can sometimes be a little lacking, but I actually enjoyed this book more than the first. I love all of the characters in the series and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
August 19, 2013
OMG!! This was magical . I cried, I laughed and I tremendously enjoyed every inch of this novel . finally a hero that truly did not mess up . was better than the first book even though that was pretty good too IMO . Looooove this author, cant wait for more exciting things to come and I will be definitely be looking out for the rest of this series .. So EXXCITED :))
October 30, 2020
Que puedo decir, un libro que no fue excelente. La temática aguantó porque Eliza, la protagonista, esta amenazada de muerte. Y entonces la autora nos pasea por situaciones en las cuales en cualquier momento pueden atacarla. Pero la relacion de amor de esta pareja, no cierra. No enamora, no me la creo. No llegó a hacerme sentir que estos personajes son el uno para el otro. Algo faltó.
What can I say, a book that was not excellent. The theme endured because Eliza, the protagonist, is threatened with death. And then the author walks us through situations in which at any moment they can attack her. But the relationship of this couple does not close. It does not fall in love, I do not believe it. It did not make me feel that these characters are meant for each other. Something was missing.
What can I say, a book that was not excellent. The theme endured because Eliza, the protagonist, is threatened with death. And then the author walks us through situations in which at any moment they can attack her. But the relationship of this couple does not close. It does not fall in love, I do not believe it. It did not make me feel that these characters are meant for each other. Something was missing.
September 16, 2016
I have read all but one of this series and enjoyed them all. One thing I will say about this author is that she does know how to write sexual attraction, magnetism, chemistry, - whatever you want to call it! She does touch on “bedroom” scenes but does not go into the graphic details. There is just enough to make me drool.
As Eliza Havens works for Alliance (the common ingredient in this series) she has met the friends and family of the owners, Samantha and Blake, a Duke and Duchess, who fell madly in love after they were paired up through this matchmaking agency. But this agency serves a high priced category of clientele who are looking for the arm candy, a temporary wife or even someone to help them gain that job, that promotion, entry to the organization, the voters, who like their people married. Blake wants to “remarry” his wife in all 50 states and this year on their second anniversary it is Texas.
When Blake’s sister and one of the bridesmaids, Gwen, takes to talking about the men in that state being such gentleman what with opening doors and saying, “Ma’am” whilst tipping their 10-gallon hats, Eliza purposes to give Gwen a dose of reality by taking her to a honky-tonk bar. Carter Billings, best friend to Blake, overhears her plans and shows up to keep an eye on things. When “things” go south he follows to intercede and a punch is thrown and a brawl ensues. Well, this is soon making waves across the various media and it does not look good for his run for the office of governor. Even when Eliza stands by his side and tells the reporters that he was protecting her and her “friend” from an aggressive man the buzz doesn’t go away.
Subsequently, two men in blue are at Eliza’s door wanting her to go with them. What’s this? Carter and his connections (He was a lawyer and a judge before this political move.) begin to look into Eliza’s background to find out why she would be picked up. They can’t find anything about her parents, her schooling, her background, etc. Things are looking very mysterious.
Carter now wants to present a different picture to the news media; how about becoming a family man? But Eliza is having nothing to do with his proposal despite the sizzle she feels when she is around him. She has reasons to regret her attempts to help him out and any further spotlight on her, any photos in the papers spell big time danger.
This story is one of those with such mystery going on you can’t put it down. We get to read about corruption in prisons, about the witness protection program and about the past of a 9 year old girl coming to haunt any chances for a normal much less happy life as she reaches adulthood. Hold on for an edge of your seat adventure. Well done.
As Eliza Havens works for Alliance (the common ingredient in this series) she has met the friends and family of the owners, Samantha and Blake, a Duke and Duchess, who fell madly in love after they were paired up through this matchmaking agency. But this agency serves a high priced category of clientele who are looking for the arm candy, a temporary wife or even someone to help them gain that job, that promotion, entry to the organization, the voters, who like their people married. Blake wants to “remarry” his wife in all 50 states and this year on their second anniversary it is Texas.
When Blake’s sister and one of the bridesmaids, Gwen, takes to talking about the men in that state being such gentleman what with opening doors and saying, “Ma’am” whilst tipping their 10-gallon hats, Eliza purposes to give Gwen a dose of reality by taking her to a honky-tonk bar. Carter Billings, best friend to Blake, overhears her plans and shows up to keep an eye on things. When “things” go south he follows to intercede and a punch is thrown and a brawl ensues. Well, this is soon making waves across the various media and it does not look good for his run for the office of governor. Even when Eliza stands by his side and tells the reporters that he was protecting her and her “friend” from an aggressive man the buzz doesn’t go away.
Subsequently, two men in blue are at Eliza’s door wanting her to go with them. What’s this? Carter and his connections (He was a lawyer and a judge before this political move.) begin to look into Eliza’s background to find out why she would be picked up. They can’t find anything about her parents, her schooling, her background, etc. Things are looking very mysterious.
Carter now wants to present a different picture to the news media; how about becoming a family man? But Eliza is having nothing to do with his proposal despite the sizzle she feels when she is around him. She has reasons to regret her attempts to help him out and any further spotlight on her, any photos in the papers spell big time danger.
This story is one of those with such mystery going on you can’t put it down. We get to read about corruption in prisons, about the witness protection program and about the past of a 9 year old girl coming to haunt any chances for a normal much less happy life as she reaches adulthood. Hold on for an edge of your seat adventure. Well done.
September 17, 2013
This was a great second installment in this series. This was a bit darker than the first, Eliza’s background was scary and real. The marriage set up was more emotional than the first too. These two people had an instant connection which seems to set the tone of these books, but was not acted upon until years later. They had about two years of history between them. An attraction that they fought in not so nice of a way. They argued. This made me nervous at first, I was not interested in reading a book with a lot of back and forth. Luckily that is not what happened. He stepped in and she pretty much let him. They both had reasons for wanting the marriage so it worked but they also both had feelings so it worked even better. They were a good couple. Good for each other, filling a space that they both needed filled. I liked how they just fit together and you felt like they had always been together. I think one of my favorite things about this series so far is that it isn’t an over the top “I love you” series. We get to see two people actually marry and then fall in love. They have to be a team to make the marriage work and all the while they are building that foundation they are falling in love. Different formula that really seems to work for me. I really am enjoying this series and can’t wait to continue. Looks like we have two more girls to get their man!
March 6, 2014
This book evolved in a different direction from the first in the series. Less classical harlequin tropes, with more hints of romantic suspense and subsequent rush of emotions for lead characters.
Both main characters were warm and touching. I personally would have liked to have more insights into Carter's life before, especially regarding his love life which I had trouble contemplating.
I really liked the way we could discover the mystery surrounding Eliza's past. I liked how she leveraged on Gwen's experience to remain independent, strong and in-command.
The marriage of convenience trope was quite well integrated in the plot and did not seem too outlandish, as it can often be the case in contemporary romances. Certainly less than in the previous book with the usual "father's will request".
I liked the chemistry between the two, I liked how their feelings matured.
All in all a good book, a bit short and not as developed as I would have liked regarding character development and emotions, but a very good one nonetheless.
Both main characters were warm and touching. I personally would have liked to have more insights into Carter's life before, especially regarding his love life which I had trouble contemplating.
I really liked the way we could discover the mystery surrounding Eliza's past. I liked how she leveraged on Gwen's experience to remain independent, strong and in-command.
The marriage of convenience trope was quite well integrated in the plot and did not seem too outlandish, as it can often be the case in contemporary romances. Certainly less than in the previous book with the usual "father's will request".
I liked the chemistry between the two, I liked how their feelings matured.
All in all a good book, a bit short and not as developed as I would have liked regarding character development and emotions, but a very good one nonetheless.
July 31, 2012
Eliza has a dangerous secret, but it doesn't stop her from helping out Carter Billings. She might fight with him every time she gets around him, but he is still a friend. Carter was quick to offer marriage when he finds out her appearance at a press conference for him threatened her security. Suddenly, Eliza and Carter are spending a lot of time with each other and they are not fighting. :D
I loved this book! I knew when I started it I wouldn't be able to put it down. I couldn't wait though and decided I would only read a few pages. I was half way through the book before I noticed it was the middle of the night and I had to work the next day!
I love the way Catherine is able to make me laugh out loud! This book was no exception. Catherine provides us with romance along with thought provoking mysteries. You can count on Catherine to have strong heroines. There is no whining in her books.
February 28, 2017
Depois de dois anos após a publicação do primeiro, eu já nem acreditava que sairia o segundo em português. Esta é daquelas séries que se consegue ler bem independentemente embora haja personagens que apareçam em vários livros. Mais uma vez é um livro bem fininho e com um preço demasiado alto para o seu tamanho.
Gostei muito mais deste segundo livro do que do primeiro. Gostei mais da premissa, que foi mais credível que a do primeiro livro e gostei mais destas personagens e deste casal. É giro quando o casal já se conhece e adora picar-se mas lá no fundo gostam é mesmo um do outro. O melhor do livro nem foi o romance, foi mais o passado da Eliza. A autora arriscou mais neste livro do que no primeiro e o resultado é um livro com um bocadinho mais de complexidade. Mas atenção, não é a oitava maravilha do mundo e apesar de ter gostado não sei leia o 3º. É que se demorar mais dois anos como demorou este, então lá só para 2017.
Gostei muito mais deste segundo livro do que do primeiro. Gostei mais da premissa, que foi mais credível que a do primeiro livro e gostei mais destas personagens e deste casal. É giro quando o casal já se conhece e adora picar-se mas lá no fundo gostam é mesmo um do outro. O melhor do livro nem foi o romance, foi mais o passado da Eliza. A autora arriscou mais neste livro do que no primeiro e o resultado é um livro com um bocadinho mais de complexidade. Mas atenção, não é a oitava maravilha do mundo e apesar de ter gostado não sei leia o 3º. É que se demorar mais dois anos como demorou este, então lá só para 2017.
March 26, 2016
This is book #2 in Catherine Bybee's “The Weekday Brides” series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
Read full review in the 2012 July/August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 July/August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 13, 2019
read this series back to back and thoroughly enjoyed it. great stories and likeable engaging characters though by the end of the series, the cast of thousands became a little congested trying to keep up with the who's who. great little romances with a bit of everything
June 3, 2018
Married by Monday follows the same characters I met in Wife by Wednesday, even if there was a different main couple. There was a little bit of mystery added here, and I really enjoyed myself!
July 22, 2012
Reviewed for Booked Up
To See Review at Booked Up
Getting married every single year was becoming a pain in the ass. Especially for the maid of honor.
Being the maid-of-honor to the third wedding of Eliza Haven's best friend Samantha is what starts everything. Well, that and a fight outside a bar to protect Gwen, Sam’s sister-in-law; because the fight puts in jeopardy Carter Billings’ chances of being elected the next Governor of California. So Carter asks Eliza to marry him.
Getting married fixes the image of a fight-starting, party boy in a bar. It adds stability to an office that historically has been run by married men. It’s the answer to my problems.
However, Samantha accepts just after finding out that the person who killed her parents and put her in the witness-protection-program could order a hit on her. Although he is doing two life sentences at San Quentin.
“I don’t know…”
“Is it me? I thought we were doing rather well. Didn’t you like the flowers?”
“I loved the flowers.”
“My skills with the crab fork turned you off?”
She was laughing now…and not saying no.
“We’re talking marriage.”
“Your best friend and mine married for more trite reasons, and it turned out okay. I don’t want to have you disappear in that New Mexico bunker. I’m still owed the lobster dinner … remember?”
Samantha won't be able to breathe freely until the threat is removed.
Where to start? I have four pages of favorite quotes and I hardly can choose between them! If I hadn’t already added Ms. Catherine Bybee to my list of favorite authors, after reading this book I would have been compelled to. This is a book nobody should miss, because the magic it contains is awesome.
The story is filled with wonderful humor like:
“Eliza,” she said, “And my non-virginal friend Gwen.”
Carter was a hair away from saying, but he started it. How high school could he be?
A note was stapled to a receipt from a department store. Your shoe-eating dog loves the taste of leather. What did you do, give him a cowhide to gnaw on?
And romance:
Something inside of him bloomed. Eliza was going to be Mrs. Carter Billings. Instead of worrying about what could go wrong, he only saw bright lights and happy endings.
and...
For a brief moment, it was only the two of them.
The minster wasn’t there, the audience … the sea.
No one. Carter stepped into her space, wrapped his hand around her waist, and lowered his lips to hers.
He didn’t care that flashbulbs recorded the moment, didn’t care that his loving parents stood by and watched. This was for them. It was in that moment he knew that marrying Eliza meant more than protecting her from her past.
This was deeper.
This was lasting.
And finally, substance. The story is about all the people who testify against criminals and the hole they leave behind if they go through the witness protection program. Although the criminal is caught, the inherent danger of testifying may never disappear.
I loved all the characters. Each and every single one of them is deep, well drawn, human. These are the kind of people you see everyday in the street, the type that could be your friends which gives richness to a story that is already incredibly well written. I think the only word that can express my feelings about the book is that is filled with magic. And the only thing I hated about it was that it ended!
I love the interaction between the girls Eliza, Sam and Gwen and I can’t wait to read Gwen’s story, I hope hers will be next because of this kind of feeling dialog:
“I’ll miss this terribly. I’ve never had girlfriends as close as the two of you,” Gwen said.
“I’m moving out, not away,” Eliza reminded her.
“We should initiate a “girl’s night out” once a month … maybe twice.”
“That sounds delightful.” Gwen scurried off the bed and picked up a box from the floor.
“No talk of work. Just girl talk.”
“Sex talk.”
“You’ll have to find a boyfriend if you’re going to entertain us,” Eliza chided.
“I might just do that.”
“It seems like yesterday that Blake and I were here packing my clothes. Maybe the bed is blessed and those who sleep in it are marriage bound.”
Gwen tilted her head and considered the mattress with renewed interest. “If that’s the case, perhaps I should move in here.” She placed both palms on the covers and gave it a tiny shove.
“You want to get married?”
“I’ve wanted to marry for years, but the men I’ve dated simply didn’t suit me for the long term.”
Eliza laughed. “You might have to give them more than a week of your time.”
In the end, I rate it the whole sky, reluctantly leaving the just allowed 5 stars.
To See Review at Booked Up
Getting married every single year was becoming a pain in the ass. Especially for the maid of honor.
Being the maid-of-honor to the third wedding of Eliza Haven's best friend Samantha is what starts everything. Well, that and a fight outside a bar to protect Gwen, Sam’s sister-in-law; because the fight puts in jeopardy Carter Billings’ chances of being elected the next Governor of California. So Carter asks Eliza to marry him.
Getting married fixes the image of a fight-starting, party boy in a bar. It adds stability to an office that historically has been run by married men. It’s the answer to my problems.
However, Samantha accepts just after finding out that the person who killed her parents and put her in the witness-protection-program could order a hit on her. Although he is doing two life sentences at San Quentin.
“I don’t know…”
“Is it me? I thought we were doing rather well. Didn’t you like the flowers?”
“I loved the flowers.”
“My skills with the crab fork turned you off?”
She was laughing now…and not saying no.
“We’re talking marriage.”
“Your best friend and mine married for more trite reasons, and it turned out okay. I don’t want to have you disappear in that New Mexico bunker. I’m still owed the lobster dinner … remember?”
Samantha won't be able to breathe freely until the threat is removed.
Where to start? I have four pages of favorite quotes and I hardly can choose between them! If I hadn’t already added Ms. Catherine Bybee to my list of favorite authors, after reading this book I would have been compelled to. This is a book nobody should miss, because the magic it contains is awesome.
The story is filled with wonderful humor like:
“Eliza,” she said, “And my non-virginal friend Gwen.”
Carter was a hair away from saying, but he started it. How high school could he be?
A note was stapled to a receipt from a department store. Your shoe-eating dog loves the taste of leather. What did you do, give him a cowhide to gnaw on?
And romance:
Something inside of him bloomed. Eliza was going to be Mrs. Carter Billings. Instead of worrying about what could go wrong, he only saw bright lights and happy endings.
and...
For a brief moment, it was only the two of them.
The minster wasn’t there, the audience … the sea.
No one. Carter stepped into her space, wrapped his hand around her waist, and lowered his lips to hers.
He didn’t care that flashbulbs recorded the moment, didn’t care that his loving parents stood by and watched. This was for them. It was in that moment he knew that marrying Eliza meant more than protecting her from her past.
This was deeper.
This was lasting.
And finally, substance. The story is about all the people who testify against criminals and the hole they leave behind if they go through the witness protection program. Although the criminal is caught, the inherent danger of testifying may never disappear.
I loved all the characters. Each and every single one of them is deep, well drawn, human. These are the kind of people you see everyday in the street, the type that could be your friends which gives richness to a story that is already incredibly well written. I think the only word that can express my feelings about the book is that is filled with magic. And the only thing I hated about it was that it ended!
I love the interaction between the girls Eliza, Sam and Gwen and I can’t wait to read Gwen’s story, I hope hers will be next because of this kind of feeling dialog:
“I’ll miss this terribly. I’ve never had girlfriends as close as the two of you,” Gwen said.
“I’m moving out, not away,” Eliza reminded her.
“We should initiate a “girl’s night out” once a month … maybe twice.”
“That sounds delightful.” Gwen scurried off the bed and picked up a box from the floor.
“No talk of work. Just girl talk.”
“Sex talk.”
“You’ll have to find a boyfriend if you’re going to entertain us,” Eliza chided.
“I might just do that.”
“It seems like yesterday that Blake and I were here packing my clothes. Maybe the bed is blessed and those who sleep in it are marriage bound.”
Gwen tilted her head and considered the mattress with renewed interest. “If that’s the case, perhaps I should move in here.” She placed both palms on the covers and gave it a tiny shove.
“You want to get married?”
“I’ve wanted to marry for years, but the men I’ve dated simply didn’t suit me for the long term.”
Eliza laughed. “You might have to give them more than a week of your time.”
In the end, I rate it the whole sky, reluctantly leaving the just allowed 5 stars.
March 22, 2015
This series has been a wonderful refreshing read the author gives you a new twist along with some thrills and suspense in way you do not expect it. It is a pretty clean read but there is so much passion you can almost feel it. I have so enjoyed this series and can't wait to see what they author has for me next.
The author writes about some very serious issues but in a way you can relate and have so much compassion for each character you feel their pain. Each women who gets married does so for a reason for Eliza it was to keep her safe and bring you out to be able to live a normal life. Being on the run to out run someone who wants you dead for no reason other than your father turned them in must be so painful. You lose so much along with yourself. I really enjoy watching her take her life back, being the strong women and helping others who are going through what she had was touching.
Carter was just adorable he gave so much of his self even when it would have been better if he had just walked away. He is a stand up guy who cares so much. He has so much class and so much to give a women. There isn't a women who will read this that won't fall in love with him.
I thought I would die laughing when that cowboy came up and over heard what the ladies were talking about. There is so much humor but into Catherine Bybee books you find yourself turning pages and not wanting to put it down.
Tanya Eby as a narrator brings so much to each of these books with her smooth calming voice she pulls you in. Her many different voice are outstanding I love them all and it is hard to pick just one as your favorite. I know when I see these two names together it is going to be an outstanding listen. I am so hooked on these two ladies who keep me smiling and laughing as they bring me suspense and passion.
Catherine bring an usual fresh twist to how to marry a rich man for all the wrong reason which turn out to be all the right ones. Women for years have been setting up men but her ladies do it all above board. I so loved the aunt and how they fooled the grand kids. If you haven't read any of Catherine's books you really should give one a try you won't be disappointed. I for one can't wait for the next one.
The author writes about some very serious issues but in a way you can relate and have so much compassion for each character you feel their pain. Each women who gets married does so for a reason for Eliza it was to keep her safe and bring you out to be able to live a normal life. Being on the run to out run someone who wants you dead for no reason other than your father turned them in must be so painful. You lose so much along with yourself. I really enjoy watching her take her life back, being the strong women and helping others who are going through what she had was touching.
Carter was just adorable he gave so much of his self even when it would have been better if he had just walked away. He is a stand up guy who cares so much. He has so much class and so much to give a women. There isn't a women who will read this that won't fall in love with him.
I thought I would die laughing when that cowboy came up and over heard what the ladies were talking about. There is so much humor but into Catherine Bybee books you find yourself turning pages and not wanting to put it down.
Tanya Eby as a narrator brings so much to each of these books with her smooth calming voice she pulls you in. Her many different voice are outstanding I love them all and it is hard to pick just one as your favorite. I know when I see these two names together it is going to be an outstanding listen. I am so hooked on these two ladies who keep me smiling and laughing as they bring me suspense and passion.
Catherine bring an usual fresh twist to how to marry a rich man for all the wrong reason which turn out to be all the right ones. Women for years have been setting up men but her ladies do it all above board. I so loved the aunt and how they fooled the grand kids. If you haven't read any of Catherine's books you really should give one a try you won't be disappointed. I for one can't wait for the next one.
May 30, 2012
Can I just say Married by Monday was "smartphone" amazing too? Haha. I read every word of Wife by Wednesday on my cell phone in one sitting. My eyes didn't go crazy. I didn't get sleepy. I was just completely enthralled and couldn't stop.
When I started reading Married by Monday in the late evening, I knew I was in for an all nighter. As if I was going to be able to go to sleep and finish it in the morning. Somewhere around 3am, my netbook decided to update and restart, my Nook was downstairs, so my iPhone started looking pretty good, again. Hell yes, I fired up my Nook app and continued reading it on my phone. I eventually got back to my mini laptop when it restarted. But there was no way I was going to let time pass as I twitched like a crack addict, wondering what was going to happen to Carter and Eliza.
Catherine Bybee surprised the hell out of me with the suspense in this book. It was not at all what I was expecting and I loved it. I loved how she took the characters from the first book into some nail biting drama. The love was still there, the passion, the emotions, along with police watch dogs, elections, and bar brawls.
The relationship between Carter and Eliza had me smiling and laughing throughout. Eliza is such a spitfire, with quick comebacks and a fun sense of humor. Carter is so damn endearing, and so so sexy. He was a very powerful man with an even bigger heart.
I hope Catherine has found a quite place to enjoy the summer California sun so she can type type away between sips of margaritas because I can't wait to read about Lady Gwen and Neil... and Karen (book 4?).
Married by Monday is another must-read for Catherine Bybee. Congrats! I'm in awe.
When I started reading Married by Monday in the late evening, I knew I was in for an all nighter. As if I was going to be able to go to sleep and finish it in the morning. Somewhere around 3am, my netbook decided to update and restart, my Nook was downstairs, so my iPhone started looking pretty good, again. Hell yes, I fired up my Nook app and continued reading it on my phone. I eventually got back to my mini laptop when it restarted. But there was no way I was going to let time pass as I twitched like a crack addict, wondering what was going to happen to Carter and Eliza.
Catherine Bybee surprised the hell out of me with the suspense in this book. It was not at all what I was expecting and I loved it. I loved how she took the characters from the first book into some nail biting drama. The love was still there, the passion, the emotions, along with police watch dogs, elections, and bar brawls.
The relationship between Carter and Eliza had me smiling and laughing throughout. Eliza is such a spitfire, with quick comebacks and a fun sense of humor. Carter is so damn endearing, and so so sexy. He was a very powerful man with an even bigger heart.
I hope Catherine has found a quite place to enjoy the summer California sun so she can type type away between sips of margaritas because I can't wait to read about Lady Gwen and Neil... and Karen (book 4?).
Married by Monday is another must-read for Catherine Bybee. Congrats! I'm in awe.
January 5, 2014
Loved MARRIED BY MONDAY! This second book in Catherine Bybee's Weekday Brides series was even better than Wife by Wednesday.
I'll just jump in with, I loved Carter, the hero in MbM, who Eliza's best friend Samantha nicknamed "Hollywood" because of his devastating, sexy, all-american, surfer boy, good looks. He's also thoughtful, loyal, honorable, sexy, and adorable with his pouting unrequited love for Eliza. In other words, totally swoon-worthy. Even though Carter convinced Eliza to marry him for her protection and to salvage his career it's obvious from the start he's got it bad for her. But if selling her in a marriage of convenience is what it takes to get his woman it's what he'll do. He does want to keep her safe, but mostly he just wants her.
Eliza, the heroine in this story has been keeping a whopper of a secret from her friends. One night of introducing Blake's sheltered sister Gwen to the thrills of a Texas honky-tonk bar starts an avalanche of media frenzy that brings Eliza into the limelight. The resulting exposure forces her to either come clean or leave her family of friends behind to run from her past once again.
Although there was danger and intrigue throughout this story the personalities of Ms. Bybee's characters made it seem more like an adventure. The story never lost it's fun or it's romance. The dialogue was snappy, the characters are real and relatable, the plot flows smoothly and the storyline kept me drawn in. There were humorous moments, hold your breath moments, sad moments and some very sexy loving moments. All-in-all a very well-rounded and enjoyable read. I rate this story with 5 stars. Did I mention I loved it?
I'll just jump in with, I loved Carter, the hero in MbM, who Eliza's best friend Samantha nicknamed "Hollywood" because of his devastating, sexy, all-american, surfer boy, good looks. He's also thoughtful, loyal, honorable, sexy, and adorable with his pouting unrequited love for Eliza. In other words, totally swoon-worthy. Even though Carter convinced Eliza to marry him for her protection and to salvage his career it's obvious from the start he's got it bad for her. But if selling her in a marriage of convenience is what it takes to get his woman it's what he'll do. He does want to keep her safe, but mostly he just wants her.
Eliza, the heroine in this story has been keeping a whopper of a secret from her friends. One night of introducing Blake's sheltered sister Gwen to the thrills of a Texas honky-tonk bar starts an avalanche of media frenzy that brings Eliza into the limelight. The resulting exposure forces her to either come clean or leave her family of friends behind to run from her past once again.
Although there was danger and intrigue throughout this story the personalities of Ms. Bybee's characters made it seem more like an adventure. The story never lost it's fun or it's romance. The dialogue was snappy, the characters are real and relatable, the plot flows smoothly and the storyline kept me drawn in. There were humorous moments, hold your breath moments, sad moments and some very sexy loving moments. All-in-all a very well-rounded and enjoyable read. I rate this story with 5 stars. Did I mention I loved it?
May 29, 2012
I started this book without even realizing that I had read (and quite liked) its predecessor, Wife by Wednesday. When I made the realization, I hoped it would be as good.
It was.
In fact, it was better.
Ms. Bybee writes authentic situations and expresses the good and the bad in such an equal way; making no excuses and leaving us to care for her characters because of their strengths, not because of drama stirred up by their weaknesses. Furthermore, the relationship is entirely believable and there are no odd jumps, bizarre reactions, or impractical situations; this could be a true story between two unique people.
She took a relatively standard storyline and made it amazing. You know there's going to be an HEA, but don't try predicting the plot; I have a feeling you'll be as surprised as I was. Where most would have gone a much different route, Ms. Bybee took the story and made it shine by going that extra mile. The action and thrills aren't overdone but add just enough touch of spice to keep the reader on the edge of her seat.
The conflicts and resolution in this book are beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. I found myself tearing up during the last three chapters. I’ve only done that twice before.
All-in-all, Catherine Bybee has a winner in Married by Monday. I can't wait to read the next book.
If you want an engaging tale of true love, danger, sacrifice, and happiness: this is one you definitely shouldn’t miss!
This little gem is going on my Keeper Shelf where it will be treated with love, care, and periodic re-reads!
It was.
In fact, it was better.
Ms. Bybee writes authentic situations and expresses the good and the bad in such an equal way; making no excuses and leaving us to care for her characters because of their strengths, not because of drama stirred up by their weaknesses. Furthermore, the relationship is entirely believable and there are no odd jumps, bizarre reactions, or impractical situations; this could be a true story between two unique people.
She took a relatively standard storyline and made it amazing. You know there's going to be an HEA, but don't try predicting the plot; I have a feeling you'll be as surprised as I was. Where most would have gone a much different route, Ms. Bybee took the story and made it shine by going that extra mile. The action and thrills aren't overdone but add just enough touch of spice to keep the reader on the edge of her seat.
The conflicts and resolution in this book are beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. I found myself tearing up during the last three chapters. I’ve only done that twice before.
All-in-all, Catherine Bybee has a winner in Married by Monday. I can't wait to read the next book.
If you want an engaging tale of true love, danger, sacrifice, and happiness: this is one you definitely shouldn’t miss!
This little gem is going on my Keeper Shelf where it will be treated with love, care, and periodic re-reads!
May 7, 2013
I can't say enough about this author and her writing. I was fortunate in winning a copy through the First Reads program on Goodreads and I am a forever fan of Ms. Bybee. This is the first book i have won through this program so even though i marked it as just receiving it on the giveaway page I actually received it a couple weeks ago and wasn't aware I had to mark it as received. Now on to my review. I did purchase the first book in the series because I like to read series in order and wanted to make sure I didn't miss anything by reading the second book first. I would highly recommend reading the first book, but it wasn't a necessity to enjoy Married by Monday which could be read as a standalone novel. I loved the style of writing and I loved the involvement of several characters while keeping the two primary characters at the forefront. I loved the relationship that developed between Carter and Eliza and their humorous banter and teasing between each other. I also wasn't expecting some of the twists and turns in the story but they only added to the book and made it even better. I only have one negative thing to say and that is: I don't want to wait for the third book to come out until August. I want it in my hands right now. I have pre-ordered it though. I will be recommending this book to all of my friends and book groups. It was an easy and very enjoyable read!!
May 28, 2012
I was eagerly anticipating this story after loving Bybee's first Weekday Brides book, Wife by Wednesday, and I was not disappointed! What a wonderful story about family, friendship and the choices one has to make even though they may be some of the most difficult and scary that you'll face in life. Sometimes trusting and taking the biggest leaps are the ones that end up changing your life for the better.
The story is filled with romance and suspense as the main characters, Carter and Eliza, embark on paths in their own lives that lead to them growing closer together for reasons that were unforseen. Bybee does a great job of really bringing these characters to life and it was great to see Sam and Blake again in this story as well.
Catherine Bybee has done it again with another phenomenal story! Looking forward to her next installment in this series!
The story is filled with romance and suspense as the main characters, Carter and Eliza, embark on paths in their own lives that lead to them growing closer together for reasons that were unforseen. Bybee does a great job of really bringing these characters to life and it was great to see Sam and Blake again in this story as well.
Catherine Bybee has done it again with another phenomenal story! Looking forward to her next installment in this series!
September 20, 2013
It's listed under contemporary romance, but it reads like a romance suspense.
This book is such a great read~ I had a hard time putting it down until I saw the ending. (And it was not what I expected, it was sweeter.)
We had a sneak peek of Carter and Eliza in the previous book, but not enough to expose their fiery attraction.
This book takes place two years after Blake and Sam first married. They have known each other for a while now and haven't been able to stop arguing with each other whenever they saw each other at gatherings. (That's the first hint of their strong chemistry.) The chemistry was always there, and the two of them subconsciously recognizes it but does nothing about it until Eliza's past comes back to hunt her.
I was very pleased with this book and how it was written. It's funny, witty, and sometimes heart breaking.
This book is such a great read~ I had a hard time putting it down until I saw the ending. (And it was not what I expected, it was sweeter.)
We had a sneak peek of Carter and Eliza in the previous book, but not enough to expose their fiery attraction.
This book takes place two years after Blake and Sam first married. They have known each other for a while now and haven't been able to stop arguing with each other whenever they saw each other at gatherings. (That's the first hint of their strong chemistry.) The chemistry was always there, and the two of them subconsciously recognizes it but does nothing about it until Eliza's past comes back to hunt her.
I was very pleased with this book and how it was written. It's funny, witty, and sometimes heart breaking.
May 28, 2012
What a great read! This story was non-stop and full of suspense and emotion all the way to the end. I liked Eliza's strong, but loving character. Her fear and courage did not stop her from being beside the man she would fight with at each meeting, but stood beside him with love when he needed her, while her life was in danger. I could not stop reading this fast paced book. Great book. I would recommend this book to everyone that likes suspense,romance and holding your breath as you read, hoping it never ends.
December 4, 2015
Really loving this series!!! Nothing about the arranged marriage concept is cookie cutter and so far all of the stories are different but connected. Carter and Eliza work great together, the sexual tension jumps off the page, and they just work so well together. Loved the appearance of the secondary characters for the series and really felt the flow.
This specific video review: https://youtu.be/PhVLQ62ClsU
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel Stephanie Uncensored
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This specific video review: https://youtu.be/PhVLQ62ClsU
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel Stephanie Uncensored
https://www.youtube.com/c/stephanieun...
June 8, 2012
Happy I purchased the sequel to Wife by Wednesday. This was a fun read. The love story was nice but the background story which dealt with Eliza's past was what kept me reading. I hear there is a sequel and I'll be waiting. And, hopefully, my guess of the next two characters to fall for each other is true. I would love to learn more about Neil.
January 27, 2016
Another great book in the Weekday Brides series! This was one sizzling romance novel!
I loved seeing the characters from the first book make an appearance in this one too. This book was more of a suspense filled, steamy romance story than the first book.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
I loved seeing the characters from the first book make an appearance in this one too. This book was more of a suspense filled, steamy romance story than the first book.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
July 12, 2013
I really loved this book. I didn't want to put it down. You can't help but love both Carter and Eliza. It was great to see that the other characters from the first book were brought into this book. The way Catherine Bybee writes, you can just feel the love and compassion between the characters.
May 29, 2012
The best book ive read in a while...you rock Catherine!!!!!!
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