A Review of Work Wife by C.L. Donley

This is the first multicultural romance I've read by C.L. Donley, and I found her style to be simple, realistic, and engaging. The novel is more character-driven than plot-driven, which makes for an intriguing read.

Meet Anita Parker, a 38-year-old personal assistant to eccentric CEO Jonathan Jantzen. After six years of navigating his demanding personality and efficiently managing his business, Anita is surprised when, just as she's offered her dream job as a forensic investigator, Jonathan counters with a marriage proposal. The catch? It’s a six-month arrangement.

Anita throws herself into planning a “big ass” wedding, complete with all the bells and whistles—venue, dress, cake, and more. She and Jonathan begin their staged romance, practicing affection in public while only a select few of Jonathan’s friends know the truth. However, things shift when a date and a candid discussion about their past relationships reveal the emotional baggage, they both carry. They’re afraid to be vulnerable, and neither is sure if they’re ready to embrace real love.

Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read. There were a few slow and occasionally confusing moments, but I found it entertaining. While Jonathan's motives for the marriage felt a bit selfish, I couldn’t blame Anita for going along—who wouldn’t be tempted to marry a millionaire? In the end, it all worked out, and they got their happily ever after. A good read.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Some of my favorite lines:

He shifted in his chair a bit, letting out a long huff. “Look, I know my strategy might look… desperate. Drastic. But I value you, Anita. And value and love are the same.”

My heartbeat lunged. Was he saying he loved me? Even platonically speaking it was enough to floor me.

“I haven’t asked you once how you feel about me,” he continued. “And it’s not because I already know, because I don’t.”

I licked my lips, suddenly shy. Suddenly realizing we were holding hands.

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