Heated Rivals was an intense and steamy romance and is the second book in the O'Malley series. James and Carrigan have delicious chemistry and I loved the build and details of them coming together.
Heated Rivals (The O'Malleys #2) by Katee Robert
Carrigan O'Malley has always known her arranged marriage would be more about power and prestige than passion. But after one taste of the hard-bodied, whiskey-voiced James Halloran, she's ruined for anyone else. Too bad James and his family are enemy number 1.
Hallorans vs. O'Malleys-that's how it's always been. James should be thinking more about how to expand his family's empire instead of how silky Carrigan's skin is against his and how he can next get her into his bed. Those are dangerous thoughts. But not nearly as dangerous as he'll be if he can't get what he wants: Carrigan by his side for the rest of their lives.
Previously published as The Wedding Pact. This story has been updated with a new title and cover.
4 out of 5 stars
Heated Rivals was such a great story. I love the elaborate world that has been created. There was so much going on, I liked the drama, the heat, and the different POVs. There was excellent writing and details that really pulled me in.
I love the relationship happening between James and Carrigan. They have a great animosity happening, and I love to see their development evolve. They fight it but the pull is too strong. I loved the struggle that was happening and the chemistry growing between these two. Together they are hot! I loved cocky and arrogant James, it came off as more playful to me in this charming way. Like you want to dislike him but you can't. I really liked Carrigan as well. She's a strong woman for the most part thinking she's doing what is best for her family even though it goes against what she wants. I really loved that she can take care of herself and doesn’t count on a man to save her.
I thought there was good development in their story and a decent pace with their relationship, though a section in the middle got a bit tedious to me. I was ready for them to move it along. I loved when they really started to open up and share and be vulnerable but I wish there would have been a bit more depth to it.
I loved the different POVs and the way the author tells the story. There are lots of things happening within the different families that create some serious drama and great tension. I loved all the conflict that was happening. I can't wait to see how newly introduced people come back around in future stories. I liked getting into Cillian and Sloan's head and am super curious about Adrian. I'm excited about where it could go.
Great descriptions and writing. Steady pace throughout for the most part. Action-packed ending. Awesome read, I am definitely caught up in their world and ready for more!
Note: I previously read and reviewed this book when it was titled The Wedding Pact.
"This is an exciting world! I loved the drama and passion!" - About That Story
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