Hot Asset (21 Wall Street)

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book, given by Netgalley.
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Ian Bradley has gotten everything he has ever wanted. He worked hard all his life and he is now enjoying the fruits of his hard work.

But there's something that he wants and he can't have, and she seems to be the person who can destroy everything he has.

Lana works hard too, she wants to build a career for herself and this is the case that could make her or break her, but things aren't as easy as she thought they would be.
There's no black and white with Ian and she is not sure how to handle that. On paper he seems guilty but once she gets to know him she realise there's no way he could have done what he is accused of.

The attraction between them is crazy and they are fighting with all they got to stop from just letting go, because that would mean destroying both of their careers and lives.

As days go by they realise these could be what they were both looking for but they must trust each other,even when it seems impossible.

Fun and entertaining love story where opposites more than just attract they collide and it couldn't be better.

As always, LL is at her finest when writing about gorgeous men in suits, with multiple layers and depth beyond the physical package (though it is usually an outstanding package) and the smart, confident women that they fall for. We are back in Manhattan for this new 21 Wall Street series...which is very reminiscent of her Oxford Series, which was the first series I read by LL. It was an interesting twist, taking a Wall Street hotshot and putting him toe-to-toe with an ethical, SEC agent. I must admit, that's a new twist I wasn't expecting. The story has all of the classic LL marks, beautiful people, close friendships, depth of character and genuine fall over heals in love. It's a great romantic read for someone who is looking for a clever, happily ever after story. The other characters we met are going to be our next stories....and I must say I cannot wait for the next story. The interaction between these two characters jumped off of the page in this story, so I can't wait to see what happens when all of the focus is on them. As always, I am a devoted fan of LL's stories.

I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

What a spectacular start to a new series! Hot Asset, book #1 in the 21 Wall Street series, has a little bit of everything for your reading enjoyment!

Ian, who came from foster care, has made a name and a fabulous life for himself. Handsome, smart and rich, with an excellent job and amazing friends, Ian has all he needs in life. Or at least he thought he was until a woman he’s trying to make a play for does the unthinkable...she passes on his advances!

Lara is damn good at her job and is working her way up thru the ranks in hopes to make it to the FBI like her parents when she is sent to Wolfe Industry to investigate Ian. This case could make or break her career but what Lara never expects is for her heart to possibly get in the way.

I truly enjoyed every moment of Hot Asset! I loved that Lara didn’t cave to Ian and yet their attraction to each other is insanely hot but they both know a relationship is not something in the cards for either one of them. I enjoyed the banter between Lara and Ian and when you throw in the secondary characters...outstanding! Hot Asset truly had everything I was looking for!

4.5 Wall Street Stars

This is my first Lauren Layne book, but it will not be my last! I am so excited about this series and the characters. They have such charm and they are so much fun!

This is the story of Ian Bradley and Lara McKenzie. Can I tell you a little something about Ian Bradley? Yes? Good. That man, oh that man, has my number. He's all suited up and he's all charm and charisma and power and confidence. He's alpha. He's in control.

Until something happens and he isn't in control. But even when he's playing someone else's game, he's still impressive, formidable, and intimidating. He's not a man you want to cross.

Ian has the coolest group of friends I've ever met. They're hilarious. They're supportive. They're everything to him. And watching him with Matt, Kennedy, Sabrina, and Kate? And then Lara? It's what I want my friendships to look like.

Lauren Layne has found herself a new reader. A loyal reader if the rest of her writing is like this. She writes chemistry and tension and lust with just the right amount of flirty fun. I'm ready for Matt and Kennedy!!

Lauren Layne’s enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy, Hot Asset, makes Wall Street sexy, smart and fun. Lara is a driven, no-nonsense SEC agent, who is investigating Ian for insider trading, and she’s not impressed by his cocky charm or smooth moves, at least she doesn’t want to admit she is. Ian has never met anyone quite like Lara, and he’s dumbfounded by her cold shoulder, but he’s also determined and used to getting what he wants. They’re electric together as they verbally spar, trading snappy comebacks and flirty one-liners, while attempting to deny their attraction and fighting for their own agendas. The results of Lara’s investigation could make or break both of their careers, so all bets are off between these two dynamic competitors. Hot Asset is an irresistible battle of the sexes that stands out due to its clever humor, witty banter, sophisticated setting and passionate, sigh-worthy romance, and I can’t wait for more of Lauren Layne’s 21 Wall Street series.

Recommendation appeared @ USA Today’s Happy Ever After on May 24, 2018
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.

A fabulous beginning to the new series Wolves of Wall Street .
We begin with Ian . He is a self made man, coming from a foster care upbringing he is hard and abrasive . Making his way as only he knows how with determination , skill, and intelligence. He is cut throat and arrogant but always honest when it comes to money and women. He is surrounded by loyal friends that always have his back ! They are a fabulous cast of characters .
Lara is making her way up in SEC , she investigates white collar criminals and shaddy business practices . When an anonymous tip comes in to the department she is sent to the offices of Wolf industry and on the doorstep of Ian.
Shall we say that these two individuals get off to a rough start and it doesn't get any easier from there.
They soon discover that their is so much more to the real person than either one was expecting . I loved their sexually charged banter , wit, sass and chemistry !! So Good !
It is wrong , Illegal , and down right irresistible. They cannot submit when neither knows what the end will bring!
~~Michele McMullen~

GAH!! Hot Asset was just pure Lauren Layne goodness! What do you get when you cross a hotshot Wall Street trader with the SEC agent investigating him for insider trading? PURE FIREWORKS folks!! Ian and Lara were sexy and fiery and their banter was just on point. I really enjoyed their chemistry and the unique storyline. This was such a breath of fresh air and a promising start to a new series!

You guys! I am still so swoony over this story!! It was just so fun. Lara was very smart and witty and Ian was full of all the alpha goodness we love - charismatic, sexy and fall of the cocky goodness we love in our Lauren Layne heroes. But past the designer suits and luxury highrise apartment is a kind and caring man with a giving and vulnerable heart. GAHH!! He was just so delicious. I will admit this story started a bit slow for me but before long I was just swept away. 

And honestly the best part of the story? The bromance between Kennedy, Matt and Ian. I could not get enough of their spitfire banter and back and forth and am SOOO excited for their books!! Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula

5 Star Review

ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

New author for me added Lauren Layne to my reader list !!! Love her writing style !!

Lara McKenzie works for the SEC & is sent to investigate Ian Bradley with Wolfe Investments for possible inside trading … Ian is a hot shot of Wall St - millionaire playboy however the minute he sees Lara in her librarian glasses she becomes all he can think about - screw this investigation he knows he is innocent ......

Lara is in her element loves her job & this case has the potential to help get her a dream job with the FBI..... the only problem is the more evidence she uncovers she believes there is no case warranting the investigation & Ian should be cleared of any wrong doing .... come to find out Ian is being framed .....

Loved the sexual tension between these 2 characters - great story with great secondary characters as well hopefully getting their stories - awesome read highly recommend this book & author !!!!

There’s just something so fun about Lauren Layne’s writing. Every book of hers I’ve read, I’ve gotten hooked from the start and had a hard time putting the book down. Hot Asset is no exception to this. I absolutely loved how Ian and Lara met. I loved their banter and the fun of it all. I always love it when cocky men who think they are just all that and a bag of chips, get knocked off their pedestals a bit. I really enjoyed the fact that not only was Lara not interested in Ian, she was also bound and determined to find the smoking gun against him.

Until she wasn’t...which then added even more awesome to this already great book. The chemistry between Lara and Ian was just as great as the banter. They were sexy and sweet and a whole lot of fun. I really loved the way this book played out, the ending was absolutely perfect. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. I had a feeling I was going to enjoy this book and Lauren Layne came through for me once again. I absolutely recommend this new series from her.

Favorite quote(s): “For what it’s worth,” he says, not looking at me as a cab pulls to a stop in front of us. “When I make out with you, it won’t be against the wall of a seedy club. And I will definitely remember it.”
Thoughts: I always enjoy books by Lauren Layne….she always seems to have something new or different to set her books apart from all the rest. I can honestly say I have never read a book like this one. It was intriguing, fascinating, and you just had to see what happened and how the story plays out. Ian, of course, is a bit of a player, but he’s blindsided by Lara for multiple reasons. And Lara is one of those strong female characters that is just a joy to read. This one is not just recommended, but a must read!
Rating: A
Favorite quote(s): “For what it’s worth,” he says, not looking at me as a cab pulls to a stop in front of us. “When I make out with you, it won’t be against the wall of a seedy club. And I will definitely remember it.”

Lauren Layne has a mesmerizing writing style that tends to captivate me from the beginning to end of her stories, and this one is no different. I thoroughly enjoyed watching rich playboy Ian stumble through each day once his world is rocked by not only an SEC investigation into allegations that he was involved in insider trading but, much more interestingly, his "what the hell is happening to me" attraction to Lara, the straight-laced investigator assigned to his case. This book is a perfect example of the fact that you can't help who you fall in love with. And it's a lot of fun to watch these two fight it. This one is definitely a slow burn, but it's worth the wait. It's also the start to what promises to be another great series by Ms. Layne. I'm certainly anxious for Matt and Sabrina's story next, but I am beside myself with anticipation for Kennedy and Kate's story.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC for review.

For SEC agent Lara McKenzie this latest job is her make or break for her getting her lifelong dream – a position at the FBI. All she has to do is prove Wall Street’s golden boy is guilty of insider trading. She goes after Ian Bradley with a vengeance, but soon has doubts about the anonymous tip. With their back and forth banter, a huge attraction that she unsuccessfully tries to ignore, she finds herself proving he’s not guilty. With twists and surprises, this was a great story totally worth five stars (and more).
This is the first book I’ve read of Lauren Layne and can’t wait to read more!

hot asset kicks off a wall street based trilogy for layne. someone has set the sec on ian bradley's case, even though he's innocent. they also put their most doggest agent on the case with the carrot being a letter of recommendation to the fbi.

the more digging lara does in this case she had been so convinced would be a slam dunk, and the more she gets to know ian, the worse she feels about the case. but does she trust her bosses at the sec who tell her he's guilty, or should she trust the lack of evidence and trust her gut, or should she trust the guy who is telling her he's done nothing wrong.

the heart of the relationship is watching ian and lara come to terms with the circumstances that thrust them together and figuring out how to accept that together they can have it all.

**hot asset will publish on may 22, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/montlake romance in exchange for my honest review.

I received a copy of this story from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I've read two other books in a different series by Lauren Layne so I was pretty confident I was going to enjoy this read. I was not prepared to enjoy it as much as I did. While the story had all the sexual tension and witty banter Lauren is so good at, it had an added element of mystery. It was that extra bit that heightened it and made me want to keep reading. This was more than just a palate-cleanser between other books; I was genuinely interested in the story and how everything would play out. As always, the characters were lovely and distinct. I would adore having Kate as a friend!

I would absolutely recommend this book to everyone! And I'm curious to see how the rest of the series plays out (especially Kennedy's story; that's one I'm dying to read.)

Brava, Lauren!

Fun, flirty read that I devoured in one sitting!
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This was my first book by Lauren Layne and I'm OBSESSED ! .
Ian and Lara are an unlikely pair. In fact, they're total opposites. They probably would've never crossed paths had it not been for Lara investigating Ian. Their first encounter was a classic one! .
The author nailed their character chemistry! Their banter and inner dialogue had me smiling and laughing throughout the entire book! And boy was the sexual tension was hot! I ate up every word and could not put my kindle down. .
I also loved the supporting characters! Each and everyone of them! Their bond and loyalty to one another was definite goals! .
I LOVED IAN BUT I THINK KENNEDY AND HIS NO SMILES...STRAIGHT TO THE POINT, NO NONSENSE SELF MIGHT BE MY FAVE. .
Gosh, I cannot wait for the books that follow. .

This is an amazing start to this series!!!!!

Ian has overcome a lot of adversity to become the powerhouse broker that he is now so when Lara shows up from the SEC and accuses him of insider trading, he's going to do everything to clear his name and prove his innocence. Lara is a by-the-book SEC investigator trying to make her way to the FBI. All she needs is one big case to prove that she has what it takes.

The chemistry between these two is off. the. charts!! The slow burn made it that much more intense. I loved absolutely everything about these characters and all of their friends. I laughed so much and I couldn't put this down. I found myself trying to solve Lara's case right along with her. I really can't wait until the next book in this series!!!

*Borrowed from KU*

Hot asset is sooo good. Ian Bradley known for being rich and making it known and for having a different women every night admits to being a dick. But losing his parents when young then being in foster care with parents who didn’t care and having nothing he made a name for himself. He worked hard and played even harder. It is what he hides behind for not feeling wanted except by one guy who never adopted him but took him and took care of him. Then Lara McKenzie shows up who can take everything he worked so hard to become and do all away. This could be her big break also to get into the FBI. She doesn’t fall at his feet like all the other women but she isn’t unaffected either. Lara is working hard to find the truth and Ian is fighting to clear his name. Both of their jobs on the line. Both tryin to fight the attraction.
Book given to me by author on netgalley

4 stars.
There is just something about the Lauren Layne brand of lighthearted romance that I fall for every time, she can even make Ian our aspiring hero and previous manwhore appear adorable.
I love this woman's writing. You can sign me up anytime for a book written by her.
This was also such a great start to her new series featuring the "Wolfes of Wall Street". As well as Ian and Lara's story we are introduced to Matt and Kennedy who will each be getting a book of their own.
Such a quick, interesting and entertaining read. Read it in one sitting.
Fabulous book, great characters and storyline.
This is the 13th book that I have read by Lauren Layne and she doesn't disappoint.

ARC gratefully received in exchange for an honest review.

Hot Asset hits the ground running with a perfect balance of humor, wit, and intrigue. Ian and Lara have immediate chemistry and tension, but given that Lara's investigating Ian for insider trading, it's a bit of a slow burn. Ian proclaims his innocence from the beginning, and the mystery behind the investigation adds an interesting element to the story, but is more or less relegated to side plot level and quickly resolved. Instead, Lauren Layne focuses on building a wonderful world of supporting characters, and I can't wait for some of their stories!

Hot Asset is a quick and semi-steamy read and a wonderful first book in this new series.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

I love Lauren Lane books. They're always smart, sexy and fun with characters who have soft centers and loyal friends. Early on, I was worried about the hero, Ian. He came off so smarmy in the beginning and I thought, "Oh, no!" Thankfully, Ms. Layne didn't disappoint me. Ian showed himself to be a wonderful character, who was a lot playboy, but also just a guy trying to succeed and enjoy what he's been able to shape into a life for himself. The heroine was amazing and the chemistry between the two, off the charts. It's so good, you really just need to read it for yourself. I’m already chomping at the bit for the next book in the series!

I received an ARC of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Ohhh where to even begin?

I finished Hot Asset in ........ ONE DAY! I literally could NOT put it down. Ian freakin Bradley, oh how I love you. Lara, - so adorable and so funny. I am ridiculously excited about this series and am absolutely tortured by the fact I have to wait a long time for Matt Cannon's story and even more for Kennedy - I just know Kennedy's is going to be the best.

I was so sad when the book came to an end, I had to immediately open up another LL book to keep the feels going.

Lauren Layne - thank you for being YOU. There are so many authors that are in your genre and write light, romantic but funny books, but NOTHING like you. It's hard to come across someone that can do what you do, the way you do it. <3

This story has every great thing about it; humor, those cute-moments, challenges and hotness... so much hotness!

5 stars isn't enough

I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it to everyone. The characters in this one are intriguing and you are curious right from the start how the author is going to make this work. No fear! She does an excellent job making it a fun slow build. Ian Bradley is a Wall Street whiz. He's worked hard to get where he is and resents anyone implying he got there by cheating. So when the beautiful and sassy SEC investigator Lara McKenzie shows up to investigate him for insider trading he's none to happy with her. He may have found her attractive and interesting when they first met, now she is simply completely off limits! Right??

A fantastic read that I highly recommend.

Enjoyable read! Lara is a driven career woman for the government looking to become an agent at the FBI. She's with the SEC investigating a possible insider trading tip that came in from an anonymous whistleblower on Ian who's a well known and successful stock broker in NYC. I could relate to Lara, she's down to earth and has a good head on her shoulders. Ian is definitely a ladies man, but still has integrity and had to hire the best lawyer and prove the SEC wrong. The story did lack in depth character development. It just skimmed the surface with Ian and Lara. It's also predictable and there isn't much excitement. I still enjoyed the story and the writing.

I loved this push and pull story between Lara and Ian. Ian is a big-time Wall Street guy/player. Lara is with the SEC who investigates criminal activity in Wall Street. She is assigned to investigate Ian. When they first meet, Ian tries his best to come-on to Lara, but she’s too focused on nailing this case and earning a recommendation to the FBI, her dream job. But there is definitely chemistry between the two. And during the whole investigation, the sexual tension is high. There was a bit of intrigue in the book with what and who is after Ian. And all the secondary characters were fabulous. I’m hoping future stories about them. The ending couldn’t have been more perfect.

Okay I have mixed feelings with this book. On one hand I liked the plot and the main characters. On the other the intimate scenes were so brief and non descriptive that they really we're just disappointing. Especially since the build up to Lara and Ian finally getting it on was so drawn out. The first time they slept together there was no warmth or romance it was also just kind of awkward. I do love the story and i can't wait to read Matt and Kennedy's books I just wish the author would devote a little more time on the main characters intimate moments rather than the rushed few sentences that just left me wanting more.

Ian Bradley, insanely hot, rich, playboy, usually gets what he wants. Lara McKenzie, strong, by the book, beautiful, and gives Ian Bradley a run for his money. She was sent to Wolfe Investments to investigate if Ian had illegally made some insider tradings. Their chemistry and sexual tension was through the roof. I liked them together. Ian is a rags to riches story. He was bounced around through foster care all young life. I love the supporting characters(Ian's friends) I can't wait for Matt/Sabrina story and Kennedy/Kate story. Loved this story. It had mystery, love, friendship, fun banter. Definitely recommend.

Ian is the stereotypical hot shot Wall Street broker. He is hot, a manwhore, but with a heart of gold. Lara works for the SEC and is hoping for her big case that would help her become an agent with the FBI. They meet in the break room of Ian’s company, and Ian proceeds to hit on Lara. Of course Lara is there to investigate Ian for potential insider trading. The plot isn’t real deep, but Lara and Ian are compelling characters. The secondary characters, whose books will follow, were enjoyable as well. This is a fun, steamy read.

I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley for my honest review.

Lauren Layne and her Wall Street series is one that kicks off with tons of foreplay that will make you say right now. We have two people who from the outside seem opposite but together they have something in common. Ian knows he's hot and can have any woman yet Lara is one tough cookie. Throughout the book we see them arguing with each other and boy this cat and mouse game is HOT. Lauren Layne new series just made Wall Street sexy.

"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."

This book is Lauren Layne perfection and an amazing start to a new series. I’m obsessed with Ian and Lara and I’m super excited for the next couple of books in this series.

This book has all the sassy heroine/cocky hero dynamics you love from a Lauren Layne book. I also loved that there was so much more to Ian than the cocky playboy exterior. I loved getting to know both of them and seeing their attraction develop.

I loved the kind of forbidden aspect of their attraction because of their jobs and I really enjoyed getting to the bottom of what brought them together.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book

Hot Asset by Lauren Layne is a five star read that you won’t want to leave. Once again Lauren has pulled it out of the bag and created just absolute magic on the pages which made this one spectacular read in my opinion. This book was not what I was expecting but so much more and a brilliant way to start a new series. It has dynamic chemistry, sizzling hot and deliciously sexy all in one........what more could you ask for! I would absolutely recommend this book to all book lovers out there

A big thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the first in a new series. It is a fun, fast paced book. The chemistry between Lara and Ian is great, and I really liked the characters. In the end they get the bad guy and find love!! Fun book for all romance readers.

Ian and Lara's first encounter sets the stage with how unbalanced and awkward their relationship begins. Lara proves to herself and everyone else that she will stand up for what's right and that she has exceptional ethics and good morals. The outcome of the investigation is kind of fun because what happens (no spoiler here).

Hot Asset starts off another series of interconnected characters by the never disappointing Lauren Layne. Ian starts off a bit smug, but he does have cause. And it sure was fun seeing Lara put him in his place. Great banter, hot love scenes and an engaging story all line up for another hit by Layne.

This was a good “law” type of read. FBI meets businessman and trying to prove that he’s guilty beyond a show of a doubt. But can she and not let feelings get in the way?!?!?!? This book kept me interested and had good writing style.

A really nice romance,with good characters, fairly good story. A romance anyone could read and enjoy. Would have liked a little more humor, and a little less dragged out drama. I guessed the the bad guys right away.