Going Down Hard (Billionaire Bad Boys Book 3)

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! Derek is a wonderful, self-made man. He is confident and has overcome his childhood to be successful. He was the hot boy next door for Cassie, but he was also off limits. Not because he was a bad influence, but because he was beneath her. She was raised to see him as "the help", but she always saw something else in him. He knew she was out of his league, but he noticed how beautiful she was.

When his family faces hard times, Derek is forced to grow up and become the man of the house, but he never forgot Cassie and her family or the way they treated his family. He never forgot and used that anger as fuel to become the successful billionaire he'd be as an adult. He's got amazing friends and a solid group who support him regardless of the situation. Even if that situation involves confronting the girl from his past who isn't exactly as he remembered her.

Cassie, in an effort to save her family's company, must ask for a favor from the man she believes hates her. When she returned from a summer trip, his family was gone and she never thought she'd see them again. Now that she has to ask him for an interview, she realizes she is out of her league and might have to do some groveling to get him to agree to an honest interview. In order to get honesty out of him, she has to agree to sharing information with him as well, and this information might just break her. If it doesn't break her, it will at least reveal things about her family even she didn't know about.

While she learns things about her family she doesn't want to know, she and Derek build a relationship from the ground up. They compliment each other and Derek's friends, who we've met in Phillips's previous novels, are welcoming.... well, not exactly welcoming.... this part was a kick to read. His buddies are protective of him, but learn he is stubborn and not willing to walk away from Cassie.

Great characters and I love the way she weaves the other Billionaires into the story as well. Ties up some of the loose ends and keeps us in touch with the other stories. Some twists and turns I didn't expect kept me interested to the end!

For Cassie Storms and Derek West, the past means different things. For Derek, there is humiliation. For Cassie, there is embarrassment and shame. But what they share is the desire to rise above their pasts and succeed, to make a different life and to right past wrongs.

Derek is truly a self-made man. He's risen from a past that left him always wanting more for himself and those he loved to become one of the three creators and owners of Blink, a hugely successful app. He is in a position of making a difference for himself and his family. He's driven in large part by revenge, and it's aimed at Cassie and her family. He's determined to make them know what it feels like to lose everything that they love, and he has the means to do it.

Cassie is so much more than Derek expected. She's far from the princess that he believed her to be. Cassie wants nothing more than to take the business started by her beloved grandfather and make it great, to use it for the good. And she's willing to eat crow and take the step to engage Derek, the first step in her plan for success.

Carly Phillips has the magic touch when giving us a second-chance love with a twist. She's a mistress of taking a relationship that ended badly and allowing the characters to find each other again, to work through the trials of their pasts, and to move forward to their HEA. She also knows how to bring the serious heat, because her reads are nothing short of sizzling.

I've enjoyed all of the books in Carly's Billionaire Bad Boys series, and was looking forward to Derek's story. It's a bit of a Cinderella story, but, rather than seem like something that I've seen too many times before, Carly's take is fresh and entertaining, and one that I savored from start to finish. I sometimes have issue with the whole idea of insta-love, and things did heat up quickly for these two, but I consider their an extension, if you will, because their interest in each other was interrupted by life way back when.

Strong women, the men that love them, and plenty of love to go around. What's not to love? GOING DOWN HARD is an easy 4.5 stars for me, and a great addition to this series, which I highly recommend. Need something for your TBR? You've found it. Happy reading!

Going Down Hard by Carly Phillips is a symphony of sweet and sexy. I absolutely adore this heartwarming love story that Carly Phillips has created as two people from two different social circles have their lives collide.

As the son of a former gardener and maid, Derek West has never been ashamed of his upbringing that was until Cassie Storm reminded him that they come from two different worlds. Fast forward to several years later, Derek is now a self-made billionaire who has worked his way to the top. And this time, it is Derek West who holds the power and wealth.

Cassie Storm is rich, beautiful, and smart. She wants to take over the family business and show her father that she can save their company and family name. And in order to save their business, Cassie knows that she has to land the interview of the lifetime. An interview with Derek West, the son of her family's former gardener and maid.

Cassie has only one regret in life and that is what she said about Derek to her friends. She knew that she shouldn’t have let peer pressure get the best of her when she was eighteen years old but now she wants to show Derek that she is a changed woman who never meant to hurt him. When Cassie apologized to Derek for what she said in the past, Derek acknowledges that there is compassion, truth and humility to it. He also realizes that Cassie Storm is someone you can’t forget. So when Derek agrees to do the interview, what happens when Derek and Cassie realize that this could possibly be their second chance? Will Derek be able to trust Cassie with his heart?

As I said before, there is nothing like reading a Carly Phillips book. Her stories have always been a perfect blend of romance, heart, and steam and Going Down Hard is another prime example of that. With her heartfelt prose, Phillips allows her readers to fall hard for her lovable characters. And trust me when I tell you, it’s not that hard to fall for Derek West and Cassie Storm as these two were the perfect pair. They complemented each other like two peas in a pod. So if you are looking for a romance that will bring a smile to your face and have you wishing for your own Derek West then I highly suggest you one-click this book now.

***4.5 ‘Team Cassie’ Stars***

And we have another sweet, smexy and fun read about our favorite billionaire (nerdy) bad boys and the women who bring them to their knees!

Cassie appears to be a princess who was raised with a silver spoon in her mouth, but not all is as it seems and what’s underneath is more than anyone could expect. I absolutely adored Cassie! Yes, the girl was raised with money, but she isn’t the spoiled brat that most would assume. She’s a hard worker, has integrity in spades and appreciates what she has been given. She isn’t a wallflower or doormat and I loved how she stuck up for herself as well as humbled herself when the situation called for it.

Derek grew up being told he wasn’t good enough because of what his parents did for a living, so he set out to prove that he was more than just the status unto which he was born and through hard work he proved it a billion times over. I loved Derek, I did, but d@mn the man can hold a grudge. One issue I absolutely backed him on. The other, not so much because hormones and wounded pride got in the way. Thankfully he works through them and I loved seeing the sweet, considerate and oh so smexy man he is.

I must be honest and say that what I loved most about Cassie and Derek’s courtship was how many times Cassie ended up handing Derek his a$% by showing him that he was wrong about her in so many ways. But through these little blunders they start to truly get to know each other and it’s a fun and smexy process, holy h*ll is it smexy. They have a few hurdles to cross and I liked how it brought them closer together and made them solid as a couple.

As with the previous books in the series, I couldn’t put this one down. The writing is engaging and draws you in making you need to know what will happen next and how the MC’s will deal with the changes coming at them. But as much as I enjoyed Derek and Cassie’s journey, my focus is starting to settle on the next book and just what kind of roller coaster Kendall and Julian will be on as they work towards their own HEA.

~ Copy provided by the author (review crew) / RockStar PR & voluntarily reviewed~

Sometime the second chance you never knew you wanted shows up at your door.

Derek West has made a name for himself while keeping his past private. He's built an empire with his best friends and never wants for lady companions. Never one to let anyone too close, he a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. But if was honest with himself, there is someone that has always been in the back of his mind. She may have scorned him years ago but that doesn't stop his attraction to her.

Cassie Storm knows she did wrong to Derek and has always regretted it, but in an effort to rebuild her family's company she's ready to face him again. She's knows landing this exclusive interview would be huge to the company. She's sees Derek for more than his past, his money, and his good looks, she sees the man inside.

Derek thinks he can work Cassie out of his system and walk away, but the more they are together the more he realizes she's never been out of his system. But when the past comes back to haunt them, will they walk away from each other or find a way to leave the past in the past and focus on the future?

Going Down Hard is a captivating, charming, seduction second chance romance that have you falling hard for Derek and Cassie. The connection they have started many, many years ago and now it's off the charts. I love how Cassie wants more than fame and money, she wants a love that's true and honest. I loved watching Derek fall for the girl next door, and how he finally was able to move past the hurt and anger.

I really enjoyed getting catch up with Kaden, Lexie, Lucas, Maxie, and Kendall again. This group of people are more than friends, they are a family.

Going Down Hard is a sweet, sexy, and charming book that I was really sad to see end. Carly writes story with heart and depth, and Going Down Hard is prime example. So be prepared to swoon for Derek, and believe me when I say, he will leave you satisfied yet yearning for more.

And now I can hardly wait for the next story in this series with the man we all love to hate... Julian.

Cassie Storm comes from a life of wealth and privileged, a life that definitely comes with it's disadvantages, and steep list of expectations to live up to. And up and until now she has never had a problem going along with the flow and doing exactly what is expected of her, with the hope of it someday it paying off with a rewarding position in the family business. But her little hope is dashed when her father gives her brother the promotion that should have rightfully been hers, and then if things couldn't get any worse her brother kicks her out of her home too. But with all this going on in her life there is one bright spot... Derek West coming back into her life. He has history with her father, but that doesn't stop her from going after what she wants... now she just has to find a way to keep her family at bay, and finally get something she wants for once in her life!

Derek West has often thought of Cassie through the years, wondered what she has done with her life, and if she is just as beautiful as she use to be...so when she contacts him for a interview for her magazine he jumps at the chance to see her again. The minute she walks through his office door he is taken with her all over again, she is even more beautiful than he could have imagined, and she wants to spend time with him for her interview. How can he say no to that?

Once again Ms. Phillips has found a way to dazzle me with her exceptional literary talents, and given me a story line that I was able to fall right into and get completely wrapped up in, this is by far one of my favorites from her to date! From the instant these two appeared on the page you could feel the chemistry simmering between them, and even though they came from completely different worlds they found a way to meet on common ground and discover a happily ever after they both longed for. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with these two, their story made me smile, had me blushing a time or two, and tugged at my heart strings... and in my book it doesn't get much better than that!!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.

"Why the sudden change of heart?"
"You pique my interest. So what do you say?"
"You're persistant."
"I can be...when I want something."

Oh me. Oh my!

This book was full of sizzling chemistry that could not be contained...no matter how hard they fought it.

Derek and Cassie have a past that isn't exactly the best. Even with one, sweet kiss between them years ago, some things can never be repaired.

When an opportunity presents itself years later, Cassie knows the perfect person to talk to.
She just has to let her guard down and face the boy-now man-that she let down when they were eighteen.
No biggie...

"How do you do it?"
"What?"
"How do you engage my entire body with a simple kiss?"
"It's us. This chemistry. It's unique to us."

These two ignited the pages!!
You could feel the tension between them from the time they laid eyes on each other again.
You can't ignore those feelings!

But Derek and Cassie had a past to work through and demons that keep popping up.

Together they find support and love in each other.
Despite being from two different worlds growing up.

"He had feelings for her that went beyond sexual. In the short time he'd gotten to know her again, she'd taught him about forgiveness, caring, and moving forward."

Just like with the rest of this series, I'm so in love with all these characters!!
Derek and Cassie are just as sweet together as they are hot!

Carly Phillips knows how to write a great story!!
I'm never disappointed and always entertained!!

"Feel me?"
"Everywhere."
"Good."

Love, Redemption, and Smexy who could ask for more?!! Carly Philips brings out the yum-hunkiness with her Hero, Derek in "Going Down Hard". He's the self-made billionaire tech-god who rose up from his gardener's son roots. Derek had a chip on his shoulder about rich people when he left for university. He worked hard to get into college and kept up that ethic during university. Then started a very successful tech company with his college friends. Cassie's the driven, smart, and independent heroine. A down to earth daughter of an elitist and wealthy family. It's because of her poor choice of snobby friends as a teen that Derek's opinion is clouded against the rich. It also cost her a potential relationship with him. Once the couple reunite and talk they have no doubts about their feelings for each other. "Going Down Hard" has a zippy pace and a sleek storyline.
"Going Down Hard" is so much fun to read. It's so amusing that despite all of Derek's efforts he's planning one thing then his mouth says something completely different. He's thinking okay I'm going to just blow her off and his mouth is inviting her to dinner. He learns she needs to find an apartment and thinks wow that's a bummer sucker. Then hears himself say, "Hey, I have some properties do you want me to help you find a place?" Before he knows it they are dating, she's his girlfriend, and their in love. What the What??? The romance is delightful and the sex is smoking, spicy, smexy. The storyline is tight so it holds your interest which keeps the pace moving fast. This is another book in the win column for the Billionaire Bad Boys series!

This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed
lightningcitybookreviews.com

Swoon! Carly Phillips has once again penned a winsome, uber-sultry second chance romance that steams up our kindles!!

I LOVE fiery tales where the hero and heroine come from different worlds and in GOING DOWN HARD (Billionaire Bad Boy bk 3) Self-Made Billionaire Derek West comes face to face with Cassie Storm , the "snobby" daughter of the rich family his gardener dad and housekeeper mom used to work for. The rich and powerful tech tycoon never felt he was good enough for Cassie and she is ashamed by the knowledge that once upon a time she succumbed to peer pressure and never gave him a fair shake.

Now he has risen above his impoverished upbringing and is a mover and shaker in the tech business world and takes a certain pleasure at the knowledge that the tables have turned and the spoiled "princess" needs his help to salvage the family biz. But when their boardroom shenanigans move to the bedroom, where he plans to seduce her out of his system, can Cassie prove that she is indeed a changed woman who can melt the iron fortress around this billionaire bad boy's elusive heart?

There are sparks galore in this feel-good, sizzling hot romance! I love broody alpha males with an ax to grind and Derek fits the bill perfectly. But of course he is no match for the beguiling beauty who fires his blood, inspires his filthy fantasies and makes him flirt with the possibility of a permanent arrangement!!!

This tantalizing morsel is pure hedonistic delight and I was a captive audience throughout. Makes me yearn for a tall, dark and delicious Billionaire Bad Boy of my own!!

Another winner for Carly Phillips!

Shockingly this was my first Carly Phillips book! She has been on my TBR list for a long time, so when the opportunity came up to review this book I took advantage and plunged in.

I enjoyed this book - which is a standalone within the Billionaire Bad Boys series - although I am sure you would benefit from reading the other 2 books first to understand the friendships among the secondary characters more.

This is a second chance romance of sorts as the H and h knew each other when they were teens. Derek's parents worked for Cassie's wealthy family although because of her parents class conscious snobbery they really didn't interact much. Due to one misunderstanding between Derek and Cassie they never really got anything started before going away to college and moving on with their lives.

Fast forward several years, Derek has become a wealthy tech entrepreneur (along with his friends) and Cassie is trying to bring her own family's business back into the 21st century and relevance although it is a fighting battle as she is working against the male's in her life (father and brother).

Cassie reconnects with Derek to try to interview him for her online magazine and his curiosity is piqued and he grudgingly agrees to meet with her to see what she wants.

The attraction that has always lurked sparks again and they attempt to try and build a relationship among many hurdles - misunderstandings, family objections, personal grudges and hurt feelings. Will they be able to sort everything out?

Safe read, no cheating, no O/W drama and a HFN ending.

Curious now to read book 4 and see where it goes...

Going Down Hard is the third in the Billionaire Bad Boys series. After following Kaden Barnes and Lucas Monroe meet their matches in Books 1 and 2, watching the ever cynical Derek West realize his fate was wonderful.

Derek West grew up as a maid and gardener's son and swore he would do better for his family. Growing up beside the gorgeous Cassie Storm, with more than one naughty fantasy about this bombshell filling his teenage dreams, Derek realizes quickly (and in a very hurtful manner) that there are levels to society, and no matter how much the two want each other, it can never happen. They are just worlds apart.

Now all grown up and a Billionaire due to Blink, when Cassie reaches back out to Derek for an interview, if nothing else but out of curiosity, Derek accepts and wonders what will come of this. Seeing his what could have been walk in his door does more to him than he ever thought it would.
Cassie has always been attracted to Derek and seeing him again just verifies how amazing he is and how much she would love to explore the constant sparks between them, past aside. Can the two actually do this? Explore their potential futures while leaving the past where it belongs?

I LOVE Carly Phillips and her writing. Every story she spins is like gold. This series is WONDERFUL. Each book has has their fair shares of problems and on the edge of your seat problems, and of course the amazing chemistry and connection between the characters. I can't WAIT for the next in the series with Kendall and Julian! This whole series is one you definitely don't want to kiss!!

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

Derek West grew up having a thing for Cassandra “Cassie” Storms. You can tell when an author is good at their craft – can’t stand her father or her brother. Toward the beginning of the story, they treat her more as an accessory instead of a valuable family member. It shows that being a jerk crosses social barriers. On the opposite end of the spectrum, I loved Derek’s friends. They have his back and don’t mind calling him out either. Cassie isn’t willing to take how the men in her life treat her sitting down. For me, her mother seemed mostly absent from her life – the true rich woman lifestyle.

My disappointment came when I realized how quickly this story moves along. Even though I took breaks and read slowly, the pages just seemed to move too quickly. I tried but the end kept creeping closer and closer. But there are two other books that have come before this one so I can still get my author fix as well as see what the other bad boys were all about. And this will pass the time until Going In Deep comes out.

Ms. Phillips is the perfect adult storyteller. She knows when to create tension, when to create heat, and just the right moment to take it to the next level. She also has a way of giving her characters problems but nothing that they can’t handle together. The ending doesn’t give the reader an HEA but it does sound like it gets you ready for the next book. Something else this author is good at – teasing her readers.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Going Down Hard is an enjoyable poor-boy-becomes-a-billionaire-and-wants-revenge story. Derek was the son of the gardener and maid who worked for Cassie's family, and the two shared a steamy summer kiss shortly before they each went off to college. But then something occurs where feelings were hurt, and they never reconnected before going their separate ways. Years later, Derek is now a tech God still harboring one helluva grudge against Cassie's family, and when Cassie needs something from him in order to save her family's company, Derek spies the perfect chance to get his revenge.

The story is told in dual POVs but from the third person perspective; I'm just generally not a fan of third person, but the pacing is good and the characters are well-developed. Derek quickly finds out that Cassie isn't the shallow, pampered princess he's thought her to be all these years -- which was good, because he kinda came across as a jerk at first. Cassie has some spunk to her, which I liked. She stood up not only to her jerk of a brother, but tells Derek that if he can't get over what happened between them in the last then they have no future together.

Overall, Going Down Hard is a sexy, quick read. It's not terribly long, and I was able to finish it in a day. It's a standalone that is part of an interconnected series, but I didn't feel that I was missing any important plot points by not having read the stories of Derek's friends/business partners first.

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

**Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**

WOW, I tend to like all of Carly Phillips books and this series is no exception BUT this book delivered beyond my expectations. Going Down Hard is the third book in the Billionaire Bad Boys series and I found myself reading it in just 2 days. These characters are very well developed and multifaceted...you do know at the end they will find a solution to their obstacles but it is the way they reveal their layers to you as well as how their relationship grows that you find yourself cheering for them like you do for friends in the early stages of a relationship.

Derek West has grown from poverty as a child to a very wealthy adult, but he has a chip on his shoulder that doesn't let him grow. Derek has the opportunity to "get revenge" from the humiliation he remembers as a child but realizes that to reach your own potential and happiness you need to move on and treat others with respect.

Cassie Storms has worked hard to earn her position in the family business when her father steps aside, but then discovers her fathers lack of respect for her abilities run deeper than she thought. Instead of crumbling and walking away, by far the easier task, she sticks with her convictions and promises to her grandfather and works to create and grow the area of the business her father thinks is her small piece of the pie...the first hurdle, getting that interview with Derek...and hoping he has forgotten that humiliating moment so many years ago....

Title: Going Down Hard
Author: Carly Phillips

4 unexpected stars

One this i've come to enjoy from Carly Phillips it's her ability to take a topic that i've seen many times over and reivent it so that it feels and sounds completely new. Another thing i loved about her stories is that no matter where you start in her series, you never feel left out, as though you missed the big picture because no matter which story you take first, it's always an independent one that'll take some characters of the previous books and bring them back while concentrating most on the main characters. So it's no wonder that after reading Derek and Cassie's story, how they had to take care of issues of their past before concentrating on their future, it made me curious to find out more about Kade and Lucas.

4.5 sexy dreams

I loved how, unlike many in their social standing, Derek and Cassie were humble and down to earth. Nothing like Cassie's brother or father, or even her so-called childhood friends. The connection between these two is one that so many can only hope for, and boy did i love to watch them fall hard for one another. I hope it's not the end of this series because i absolutely loved being part of this family, even if it was as an outsider.

*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books

A super sexy continuation in the Billionaire Bad Boys series! Past mistakes are forgiven, new connections are forged, and lots of secrets are uncovered as Carly Phillips brings us Derek West’s story! All three of these bad boys have been genuinely good guys when all is said and done … I have really enjoyed them all! It’s raw, it’s sexy and it’s captivating!

Derek West grew up as the groundskeeper and maid’s son. He watched those around him have it easier than him and have better things, but it just drove him to rise above it all. His technical magic led to an app that made he and his college pals the billionaire’s they are today … but he has never forgotten where he came from … or the injustice done to his family in the end!

Cassandra Storms was the spoiled rich girl living in the main house. She had the world handed to her on a platter, and played the rich princess game all too well. The attraction between them as teens was shot down before it could even begin, but the second they lay eyes on each other again, it rears it’s ugly head! The tables are turned a bit now and it’s Cassie coming to Derek needing a favor … and he decides he’s all too happy to welcome her into his bed for the ride of her life … then he’ll send her on her merry way. As secrets from the past are unraveled and he learns she’s not who he expected, will the time they spend together actually build a connection that he won’t be able to walk away from?

Going Down Hard (Billionaire Bad Boys #3) by Carly Phillips
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Sexism
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

Derek is looking for revenge. He was living a good life with his mom and dad. His parents were servants in Cassie's house. When the unthinkable happens, not only does his dad become ill, but they don't have the money or insurance to help him recover. Derek sees buying Cassie's dad's company as an opportunity to right the wrongs of his past. What he doesn't realize is that his mom has already moved beyond the past and hopes that he will too.

Cassie is trying to show her father that she is capable of taking over his beloved company - bring it in to the 21st century - in to the cyber age. When she is passed over because her brother decided to come home, she can't help but be livid. But, not only does her father undervalue her worth, he then allows the prodigal son to come home and kick her out of her house. I hated Cassie's family. They were self-centered, narcissistic and entitled beyond belief. I had a difficult time understanding how she was not a product of her environment. But in the end, she came out the winner and her family had to kind of slither back in to their dark bubble.

This is a story about overcoming obstacles that they thought defined them, but came to realize when they chose a different path, they were able to break away.

Did anyone else find it impossible NOT to fall for Derek West? He was such an amazing character! Cassie Storm wasn't half bad either.

Cassie and Derek share history. Her family was rich and he was their gardener and maid's son. The people and the environment gave Derek a skewed opinion on all rich people. Not to mention a scandal that helped to destroy his family.

Once away at college on a scholarship, Derek buckled down and worked hard with his two best friends, Kaden and Lucas, to create an app that catapulted his career and made him into a successful billionaire. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interview the mysterious Derek brings Cassie back into his life. It doesn't take him long to realize that she's nothing like he imagine. He gets more than a glimpse of her innate goodness. But is what they share enough to conquer the deep scars created by the past?

The author did an amazing job of detailing the growth of the characters as individuals and the development of their relationship with each other. and those intimate scenes were definitely steamy! Although I would have liked more of a conclusion to Derek and Cassie's story, I did like how it alluded to what may take place in the next book with Kendall and Julian.

Release Date: February 21, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 4 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone with character crossover

Going Down Hard is book three in the Billionaire Bad Boys Series. I have not read books 1 & 2. I was able to follow the story without any problems. The story is straight forward and includes all of your angst and alphas!

Derek West was once the gardener’s son for the Storms family and admired Cassis Storms from afar. Cassie Storms was once the rich girl who admired Derek from afar but knew that they were not in the same social circles and was not brave enough to change that.

Fast forward a few years and Derek is now a successful entrepreneur, co-creator of Blink, a social media app. Cassie wants to interview the sought after, very private Derek for Take a Byte, a Storms Consolidated online tech magazine. She is hoping to revitalize things in the company.

With past misunderstandings and chemistry Derek and Cassie collide. Derek is sexy, smart and alpha. Cassie is loving, strong and compassionate. A far cry from her younger days.

The story is steady and the characters were written well. The sexy time was HOT! There is a lot of chemistry between Derek and Cassie. The story wraps up neatly and the author sets us up for the next couple who I believe will be Kendall and Julian. I enjoyed the book and would like to go back and read books 1 & 2. I especially think the next installment will be good. The author definitely peaked my interest with Kendall & Julian’s background.

4 stars!

Another win for Carly Phillips! The 3rd installment of the Billionaire Bad Boy series, Going Down Hard was an excellent addition to this series.

Derek, the 3rd co-founder of the mega hit app BLINK came from a working class family. Cassie was a privileged woman, with high class upbringing. The two knew each other in their younger years as Derek's parents worked on the estate of Cassie's parents and while Derek had feelings as a young boy for Cassie, he was hurt by comments overheard to some of her friends so many years ago and wanted nothing to do with her. His parents were fired and his mother accused of stealing from the Storms which lead to more animosity between Derek and the family. Blaming Cassie's family for the death of his father, he certainly didn't want anything to do with Cassie when she came calling to get an exclusive interview for her tech magazine. Trying to prove herself worthy of taking over the family company started by her grandfather, whom she adored and promised to keep things going, she was hurt when her father chose her brother to take over the company she loved. Determined to prove her father made the wrong choice, since her brother was a player, Cassie was determined to get that interview from the elusive Derek West, whom never gave interviews under any circumstances.

When Cassie shows up at his office Derek determines it's time to settle old hurts and agrees to see what she is up to. But after agreeing and seeing what Cassie has become and how she has been hurt by her own family, those old feelings start to resurface and he feels himself being drawn to protect her from those who want to hurt her.

It's a wonderful story of rediscovery of a young love and how you never truly get over those feelings. Great read!

Going Down Hard is an fantastic reading experience full of romance, drama, angst, real-life issues and everything in between. It left me with a smile on my face. If you enjoy a good mix of romance, sensuality and sex with fantastic secondary characters and a sweet happy ending, give it a try.

This is the story of a poor boy named Derek who falls in love with a beautiful rich girl, Cassie. Derek has always had warm feelings for Cassie. But he's pushed them aside, because when they were eighteen, Cassie did not defend him when her best friends started belittling his mother and mocking him. About ten years forward, they meet again and Derek can’t help himself. He's gotta have her and Cassie is up for the challenge.

The erotic scenes were very sensual and erotic and had me squirming in my seat. This book entertained, kept me turning the pages, and made me tear up at the end. The characters were so damn likable, that I couldn't help but love the book.

In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 5/5 | Romance 5/5 | Angst-Suspense 3/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 2/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Steady | Action 3/5

***I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book***

4 Stars

Derek is not what I consider your typical billionaire. He worked for every dollar he has made by taking the tech world by storm. The man has a true rags to riches story. He sexy confident and has a set of values that were instilled to him by the best kind of parents. he’s the type of man who can get anything he wants and most of the time does, however his caring heart is filled with passion and compassion.

Cassie is an amazing woman. She strong, compassionate and when she sets her mind to something she goes for it. She’s like the black sheep of her family, she stands out from them. Her family may have money but she doesn’t see things the way they do. She displays passion is everything thing she does. Along with her amazing personality, Cassie is a character you can’t help but to enjoy.
Cassie and Derek are a wonderful couple. People from opposite sides find a way to work throughout their past discretions to find a second chance at what could have been. Carly Phillips never fails to give reader a story they can get lost in. Great paced, passionate and sexy, and fantastic dialogue. A bit of drama with a lot of passion and feeling. A great read.

A copy of this title was provided for review.

This one you can definitely read as a standalone. Yes, Julian does pop again, but extremely minor. Basically, Cassie and Derek knew each when they were younger. Cassie said something extremely stupid due to peer pressure and she hurt Derek bad. Kind of cruel. Now we jump ahead to present day and Cassie is trying to prove to her father that she's the perfect person to run the company. Instead he puts her slacker brother in charge. However, Cassie is bound to prove to her father that she's the right person and cinch an interview with Derek West.

Derek planned to do one thing, but he needs to get Cassie out of his system, and why not kill two birds with one stone. As the story progress the dynamics of Cassie and Derek's relationship change, and starts to realize that he might need her in his life.

Basically, a quick story. Trouble starts to brew towards the end and quickly clears up. Overall, a pretty good read. I liked what Derek's mom says to Cassie, "Honey, we aren't responsible for the sins of others." I think that's pretty much the message in the story. Both Cassie and Derek have to get pass the past in order to move on.

Copy provided by author via RockStar PR

Shockingly this was my first Carly Phillips book! She has been on my TBR list for a long time, so when the opportunity came up to review this book I took advantage and plunged in.

I enjoyed this book - which is a standalone within the Billionaire Bad Boys series - although I am sure you would benefit from reading the other 2 books first to understand the friendships among the secondary characters more.

This is a second chance romance of sorts as the H and h knew each other when they were teens. Derek's parents worked for Cassie's wealthy family although because of her parents class conscious snobbery they really didn't interact much. Due to one misunderstanding between Derek and Cassie they never really got anything started before going away to college and moving on with their lives.

Fast forward several years, Derek has become a wealthy tech entrepreneur (along with his friends) and Cassie is trying to bring her own family's business back into the 21st century and relevance although it is a fighting battle as she is working against the male's in her life (father and brother).

Cassie reconnects with Derek to try to interview him for her online magazine and his curiosity is piqued and he grudgingly agrees to meet with her to see what she wants.

The attraction that has always lurked sparks again and they attempt to try and build a relationship among many hurdles - misunderstandings, family objections, personal grudges and hurt feelings. Will they be able to sort everything out?

Safe read, no cheating, no O/W drama and a HFN ending.

Curious now to read book 4 and see where it goes...

Going Down Hard is the third in the Billionaire Bad Boys series. After following Kaden Barnes and Lucas Monroe meet their matches in Books 1 and 2, watching the ever cynical Derek West realize his fate was wonderful.

Derek West grew up as a maid and gardener's son and swore he would do better for his family. Growing up beside the gorgeous Cassie Storm, with more than one naughty fantasy about this bombshell filling his teenage dreams, Derek realizes quickly (and in a very hurtful manner) that there are levels to society, and no matter how much the two want each other, it can never happen. They are just worlds apart.

Now all grown up and a Billionaire due to Blink, when Cassie reaches back out to Derek for an interview, if nothing else but out of curiosity, Derek accepts and wonders what will come of this. Seeing his what could have been walk in his door does more to him than he ever thought it would.
Cassie has always been attracted to Derek and seeing him again just verifies how amazing he is and how much she would love to explore the constant sparks between them, past aside. Can the two actually do this? Explore their potential futures while leaving the past where it belongs?

I LOVE Carly Phillips and her writing. Every story she spins is like gold. This series is WONDERFUL. Each book has has their fair shares of problems and on the edge of your seat problems, and of course the amazing chemistry and connection between the characters. I can't WAIT for the next in the series with Kendall and Julian! This whole series is one you definitely don't want to kiss!!

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

Derek West grew up having a thing for Cassandra “Cassie” Storms. You can tell when an author is good at their craft – can’t stand her father or her brother. Toward the beginning of the story, they treat her more as an accessory instead of a valuable family member. It shows that being a jerk crosses social barriers. On the opposite end of the spectrum, I loved Derek’s friends. They have his back and don’t mind calling him out either. Cassie isn’t willing to take how the men in her life treat her sitting down. For me, her mother seemed mostly absent from her life – the true rich woman lifestyle.

My disappointment came when I realized how quickly this story moves along. Even though I took breaks and read slowly, the pages just seemed to move too quickly. I tried but the end kept creeping closer and closer. But there are two other books that have come before this one so I can still get my author fix as well as see what the other bad boys were all about. And this will pass the time until Going In Deep comes out.

Ms. Phillips is the perfect adult storyteller. She knows when to create tension, when to create heat, and just the right moment to take it to the next level. She also has a way of giving her characters problems but nothing that they can’t handle together. The ending doesn’t give the reader an HEA but it does sound like it gets you ready for the next book. Something else this author is good at – teasing her readers.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Going Down Hard is an enjoyable poor-boy-becomes-a-billionaire-and-wants-revenge story. Derek was the son of the gardener and maid who worked for Cassie's family, and the two shared a steamy summer kiss shortly before they each went off to college. But then something occurs where feelings were hurt, and they never reconnected before going their separate ways. Years later, Derek is now a tech God still harboring one helluva grudge against Cassie's family, and when Cassie needs something from him in order to save her family's company, Derek spies the perfect chance to get his revenge.

The story is told in dual POVs but from the third person perspective; I'm just generally not a fan of third person, but the pacing is good and the characters are well-developed. Derek quickly finds out that Cassie isn't the shallow, pampered princess he's thought her to be all these years -- which was good, because he kinda came across as a jerk at first. Cassie has some spunk to her, which I liked. She stood up not only to her jerk of a brother, but tells Derek that if he can't get over what happened between them in the last then they have no future together.

Overall, Going Down Hard is a sexy, quick read. It's not terribly long, and I was able to finish it in a day. It's a standalone that is part of an interconnected series, but I didn't feel that I was missing any important plot points by not having read the stories of Derek's friends/business partners first.

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

**Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**

WOW, I tend to like all of Carly Phillips books and this series is no exception BUT this book delivered beyond my expectations. Going Down Hard is the third book in the Billionaire Bad Boys series and I found myself reading it in just 2 days. These characters are very well developed and multifaceted...you do know at the end they will find a solution to their obstacles but it is the way they reveal their layers to you as well as how their relationship grows that you find yourself cheering for them like you do for friends in the early stages of a relationship.

Derek West has grown from poverty as a child to a very wealthy adult, but he has a chip on his shoulder that doesn't let him grow. Derek has the opportunity to "get revenge" from the humiliation he remembers as a child but realizes that to reach your own potential and happiness you need to move on and treat others with respect.

Cassie Storms has worked hard to earn her position in the family business when her father steps aside, but then discovers her fathers lack of respect for her abilities run deeper than she thought. Instead of crumbling and walking away, by far the easier task, she sticks with her convictions and promises to her grandfather and works to create and grow the area of the business her father thinks is her small piece of the pie...the first hurdle, getting that interview with Derek...and hoping he has forgotten that humiliating moment so many years ago....

Title: Going Down Hard
Author: Carly Phillips

4 unexpected stars

One this i've come to enjoy from Carly Phillips it's her ability to take a topic that i've seen many times over and reivent it so that it feels and sounds completely new. Another thing i loved about her stories is that no matter where you start in her series, you never feel left out, as though you missed the big picture because no matter which story you take first, it's always an independent one that'll take some characters of the previous books and bring them back while concentrating most on the main characters. So it's no wonder that after reading Derek and Cassie's story, how they had to take care of issues of their past before concentrating on their future, it made me curious to find out more about Kade and Lucas.

4.5 sexy dreams

I loved how, unlike many in their social standing, Derek and Cassie were humble and down to earth. Nothing like Cassie's brother or father, or even her so-called childhood friends. The connection between these two is one that so many can only hope for, and boy did i love to watch them fall hard for one another. I hope it's not the end of this series because i absolutely loved being part of this family, even if it was as an outsider.

*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books

A super sexy continuation in the Billionaire Bad Boys series! Past mistakes are forgiven, new connections are forged, and lots of secrets are uncovered as Carly Phillips brings us Derek West’s story! All three of these bad boys have been genuinely good guys when all is said and done … I have really enjoyed them all! It’s raw, it’s sexy and it’s captivating!

Derek West grew up as the groundskeeper and maid’s son. He watched those around him have it easier than him and have better things, but it just drove him to rise above it all. His technical magic led to an app that made he and his college pals the billionaire’s they are today … but he has never forgotten where he came from … or the injustice done to his family in the end!

Cassandra Storms was the spoiled rich girl living in the main house. She had the world handed to her on a platter, and played the rich princess game all too well. The attraction between them as teens was shot down before it could even begin, but the second they lay eyes on each other again, it rears it’s ugly head! The tables are turned a bit now and it’s Cassie coming to Derek needing a favor … and he decides he’s all too happy to welcome her into his bed for the ride of her life … then he’ll send her on her merry way. As secrets from the past are unraveled and he learns she’s not who he expected, will the time they spend together actually build a connection that he won’t be able to walk away from?

Going Down Hard (Billionaire Bad Boys #3) by Carly Phillips
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Sexism
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

Derek is looking for revenge. He was living a good life with his mom and dad. His parents were servants in Cassie's house. When the unthinkable happens, not only does his dad become ill, but they don't have the money or insurance to help him recover. Derek sees buying Cassie's dad's company as an opportunity to right the wrongs of his past. What he doesn't realize is that his mom has already moved beyond the past and hopes that he will too.

Cassie is trying to show her father that she is capable of taking over his beloved company - bring it in to the 21st century - in to the cyber age. When she is passed over because her brother decided to come home, she can't help but be livid. But, not only does her father undervalue her worth, he then allows the prodigal son to come home and kick her out of her house. I hated Cassie's family. They were self-centered, narcissistic and entitled beyond belief. I had a difficult time understanding how she was not a product of her environment. But in the end, she came out the winner and her family had to kind of slither back in to their dark bubble.

This is a story about overcoming obstacles that they thought defined them, but came to realize when they chose a different path, they were able to break away.

Did anyone else find it impossible NOT to fall for Derek West? He was such an amazing character! Cassie Storm wasn't half bad either.

Cassie and Derek share history. Her family was rich and he was their gardener and maid's son. The people and the environment gave Derek a skewed opinion on all rich people. Not to mention a scandal that helped to destroy his family.

Once away at college on a scholarship, Derek buckled down and worked hard with his two best friends, Kaden and Lucas, to create an app that catapulted his career and made him into a successful billionaire. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interview the mysterious Derek brings Cassie back into his life. It doesn't take him long to realize that she's nothing like he imagine. He gets more than a glimpse of her innate goodness. But is what they share enough to conquer the deep scars created by the past?

The author did an amazing job of detailing the growth of the characters as individuals and the development of their relationship with each other. and those intimate scenes were definitely steamy! Although I would have liked more of a conclusion to Derek and Cassie's story, I did like how it alluded to what may take place in the next book with Kendall and Julian.

Release Date: February 21, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 4 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone with character crossover

Going Down Hard is book three in the Billionaire Bad Boys Series. I have not read books 1 & 2. I was able to follow the story without any problems. The story is straight forward and includes all of your angst and alphas!

Derek West was once the gardener’s son for the Storms family and admired Cassis Storms from afar. Cassie Storms was once the rich girl who admired Derek from afar but knew that they were not in the same social circles and was not brave enough to change that.

Fast forward a few years and Derek is now a successful entrepreneur, co-creator of Blink, a social media app. Cassie wants to interview the sought after, very private Derek for Take a Byte, a Storms Consolidated online tech magazine. She is hoping to revitalize things in the company.

With past misunderstandings and chemistry Derek and Cassie collide. Derek is sexy, smart and alpha. Cassie is loving, strong and compassionate. A far cry from her younger days.

The story is steady and the characters were written well. The sexy time was HOT! There is a lot of chemistry between Derek and Cassie. The story wraps up neatly and the author sets us up for the next couple who I believe will be Kendall and Julian. I enjoyed the book and would like to go back and read books 1 & 2. I especially think the next installment will be good. The author definitely peaked my interest with Kendall & Julian’s background.

4 stars!

Another win for Carly Phillips! The 3rd installment of the Billionaire Bad Boy series, Going Down Hard was an excellent addition to this series.

Derek, the 3rd co-founder of the mega hit app BLINK came from a working class family. Cassie was a privileged woman, with high class upbringing. The two knew each other in their younger years as Derek's parents worked on the estate of Cassie's parents and while Derek had feelings as a young boy for Cassie, he was hurt by comments overheard to some of her friends so many years ago and wanted nothing to do with her. His parents were fired and his mother accused of stealing from the Storms which lead to more animosity between Derek and the family. Blaming Cassie's family for the death of his father, he certainly didn't want anything to do with Cassie when she came calling to get an exclusive interview for her tech magazine. Trying to prove herself worthy of taking over the family company started by her grandfather, whom she adored and promised to keep things going, she was hurt when her father chose her brother to take over the company she loved. Determined to prove her father made the wrong choice, since her brother was a player, Cassie was determined to get that interview from the elusive Derek West, whom never gave interviews under any circumstances.

When Cassie shows up at his office Derek determines it's time to settle old hurts and agrees to see what she is up to. But after agreeing and seeing what Cassie has become and how she has been hurt by her own family, those old feelings start to resurface and he feels himself being drawn to protect her from those who want to hurt her.

It's a wonderful story of rediscovery of a young love and how you never truly get over those feelings. Great read!

“It’s us. This chemistry. It’s unique to us.”

Going Down Hard was a quick and enjoyable read. It is one of those books that you can’t stop reading because it makes you feel good. Derek and Cassie’s story is romantic and will make you heart melt.

Derek’s parents were “the Help" of The Storm’s family. Cassie gets close to Derek one night… a night that will change their life forever. Both teenagers are attracted to each other but their future is doomed. Cassie is wealthy, and only hangs out with the elite. There is no room for someone like Derek in her life as he is beneath her from a social point of view.

Years later, Cassie is a successful woman working for the Family Empire. She is determined and powerful and strives to save Storms Enterprise. She is the Editor in chief of a magazine and needs to get an interview with the hot billionaire Derek.

Derek wants revenge- he can’t forget the way his family and him were treated by the Storms. Cassie wants to make amends. How will this end? Will Derek be able to forgive what the Storms have done to his family? Can he be with Cassie now?

Going Down Hard is a sexy, steamy and modern fairy tale. the characters are endearing and their attraction sizzling.

“Except in her eyes, Derek was beyond unique.”

This is book #3, in the Billionaire Bad Boys series. This book can be read as a standalone novel. For reader enjoyment and understanding, I recommend reading this series in order.

Derek and Cassie have a kind of awkward history. While their families can be a touchy subject, they are getting to know one another again. Derek is ll grown up and hot enough to set Cassie aflame.

Cassie has enough problems on her plate by her own family right now. Derek is just an added element that may or may not ruin her plans. Now if they can compromise, there just might be a future ahead.

I know I always love books by this author, she is on my go to purchase list. This story however, I was just not feeling it. The banter almost felt forced. The chemistry is obvious but there was so much that distracted.... I don't know. This is just my humble opinion.

***This copy was given in exchange for an honest review.

Carly Phillips has a spectacular way of drawing in the reader and making them fall in love with the characters.

Derek West and Cassie Storm have a history. He was the gardener and maid's son. She was the rich girl who lived in the main house. After one late night kiss when they were teenagers and an overheard comment, they went their separate ways. After becoming a billionaire, Derek wants a little revenge on the Storm family and thinks an interview with Cassie is just the thing to get the information he needs. However when he meets with her, he realizes she is not the girl he thought she was. That's just the start of mending past upsets and their romance.

Going Down Hard is a great read that makes you fall in love with Derek and Cassie and believe love can change anything.

*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Another great book in this series. I've liked them all.

Derek has worked his way up in the world. He was the son of a gardener and maid and is now a billionaire. He fell for the daughter of the family who employed his parents. He thought Cassie might feel the same, but he heard her agree with her friend that he wouldn't be someone she'd bring home to meet the parents. He hasn't spoken to her since.

Derek has been bitter about things that happened and him reconnecting with Cassie and learning that she really isn't a snob left him falling for her. Caddie was loving and such a good person. She was great. She helped Derek get over the past.

I can't wait for Kendall and Julian to work through their problems. I have a feeling there will be angst galore lol

*thanks to Rock Star PR for sharing a copy of this with me*

Not your typical 2nd chance romance....since they really didn't get their first chance.

Derek carries a chip on his shoulder from being the "gardeners/maids son" and he uses it to help him take the world by storm.

Cassie is the "rich girl" who shouldn't have anything to prove, but her love for her family business is what sets her apart.

These 2 have MANY obstacles to overcome....her father who thinks that his son should run the business, her brother who has no clue how to run the business and who really is just a douchebag :D, Derek's friends who all know the story about the night by the pool, Derek himself..... will he choose to let the past ruin things, or will he realize that people aren't as bad as he thinks?

Another WINNER WINNER by Carly..... some of her best work is this Going Down series.

Derek as a kid helped his dad a groundskeeper and his mom the maid to the Storms mansion. Derek had a huge crush on Cassie the girl his age who's parents owned the mansion. Until one day she dissed him in front of her friends. Years go by and now Derek is a billionaire and Cassie wants to meet him for a interview. Will Derek forgive Cassie? Will Cassie be able to forgive herself and control the feelings she has for Derek? Drama, sexiness and forgiveness in this book that makes you wanna turn the page for more. I loved Cassie how she was a sweetheart even though she was rich she never used it as a excuse for anything. Derek at first he was a hot head but after he truly got everything out of his system he loves hard and sweet guy himself. 4/5 stars ****Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Read provided for a voluntarily Advanced Reader Copy of this book ****

Derek West crawled his way up from poverty to become a billionaire. Cassie Storm needs to interview Derek West in order help her family company but, the two of them have complicated past. The past is standing in the way of Derek and Cassie's relationship , will they be able to overcome it or will it tear them apart?

Cassie Storm is probably my favorite Carly Phillips' heroine ; she's smart, ambitious but, at the same time tough. She has a take no crap attitude which I absolutely loved. One of my favorite things is the struggle that you can see Derek go through because of his loyalty to his family and the feelings that he has for Cassie. I loved the interactions between the Derek, Kade and Lucas, the brotherhood that exists between those three, it's amazing. I also loved the teaser that Carly left us about Julian and Kendall, can't wait to read that one!!!

Revenge is a dish best served cold.

Billionaire Derek is after revenge on the family who ruined his and felt that they were better than him. The fact that Cassie is one of this family and she snubbed his romantic advances. Cassie has always resented her family's attitude towards people and wants to prove herself in people and wants to prove herself in saving the family company. Part of this plan involves interviewing Derek....

I loved the fact that Derek is determined to bring Cassie down but she is not who he thinks she is and results in his softening towards her and his plan changes to help her rather than destroy her. Cassie is unpretentious and willing to work hard what she wants. There was certainly chemistry between these two that is off the charts hot yet sweet at the same time. This was a highly enjoyable read.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, finishing it in one sitting. It's a great haters to lovers story and definitely left me satisfied and wanting more.
Cassie prides herself on her professional life and of late has experienced running into the brick wall that is her dad. This leaves her feeling unsteady and unsatisfied. In order to put her career back on the right track, she harasses self made billionaire Derek for an interview. But these two already know each other and there are lots of hard feeling involved.
The conflicts that these two run into were just enough to keep me interested and their heat and hearts were much more than I was expecting. Carly knocked it out of the park with this one and left us with a pretty big teaser for Julian, the first book's villain and I can not wait!
Do yourself a favor and get this book today. You won't regret it.

This third book in the Billionaire Bad Boys series is another hot and sexy forbidden romance. Derek was the servants son and Cassie is the privileged daughter. They were attracted to each other as youths but a misunderstanding stood in the way of acting on it. Now years later they meet again with hidden agendas. When they get to know each other again, the sparks fly, and they realize they aren't who they thought they were. I love both Derek and Cassie. They are strong, determined, and loyal and their chemistry is explosive. I love that they work through their differences to see the truth without adding lots of angst. There are a few twists and turns that add some suspenseful moments to this sweet and very hot and sexy romance. I am really enjoying this series and am excited to see how Ms. Phillips redeems Julian in the next book!

Going Down Hard is the third book in the Billionaire Bad Boys series, and it's definitely one you don't want to miss! In this book, we learn more about Derek and meet Cassie. Derek always had a crush on Cassie growing up, but they come from different worlds. Now, as an adult, Derek is a successful business man and Cassie wants to interview him. Derek holds a grudge from something that happened when they were teenagers...can they overcome their past long enough to find a future together?

This is a sweet and sexy book, you can feel the love Cassie and Derek have for each other when you read it. I could not put this book down, it was one of my favorites in the Bad Boys series. If you like sexy, fun and romance, you want to read this book!
I was given an ARC of this book for my honest review.

This is the third book in the Billioniare Bad Boys series and I am in love! Derek and Cassie share a complicated history together filled with pain and resentment. They're given a second chance when their paths cross, but it won't come easy for either of them. From the moment Darek and Cassie are in the same room together the sparks begin to fly and it's obvious to see that neither of them has ever gotten over the other. I wanted for them to work things out and finally have a chance at happiness together. I really enjoyed this well written second chance romance story that left me wanting more and I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next! I've loved every story in this series and I highly recommend reading them all to anyone! I reviewed this for Reviews from the Heart.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC this is my honest review*

Derek captured my attention right from the first page. Just groom that moment I knew he was an alpha and he gets what he wants. Derek wanted Cassie but she and her friends say some things he bbacks off. Years pass and they meet again and there is something Derek wants more and its revenge and Cassie just wants to save her family's company. Their attraction is still intense as ever and they can't stop the inevitable. Someone doesn't wasn't then together but they fight for what they want. Can they move on from the past to give each other what they need? This was a great story and characters. Full of intensity, betrayal, lies and alpha male with some live thrown in. New book boyfriend in Derek West.

I enjoyed reading Going Down Hard mainly because of its two strong, sexy, and successful leads with a shared past, plus the handful of secrets and surprises sprinkled throughout the book. Cassie and Derek's reunion and still very obvious attraction to each other after many years apart were fascinating, as was the deep and healing connection they later established. The conflicts and problems the couple faced involving their families added depth and emotion to the story, making it more intense and interesting, and all these built up to a hard-earned and satisfying conclusion. The story reminds us just how wonderful love is and how it transforms people and compels them to do good and to be better.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Although it is the third book in the Billionaire Bad Boys series, Derek and Cassie are my first introduction to this particular set of characters….but I will definitely be coming back for more!

Carly Phillips brings us another fantastic romance in Going Down Hard. Sweet and sexy with just the right amount of humor and drama laced throughout, I thoroughly enjoyed reading as Derek and Cassie reconnected despite a conflicted past. They grew as individuals and as a couple, overcoming obstacles and coming through stronger than before.

I also loved the friendship and camaraderie between Derek, Kaden and Lucas, and I look forward to reading the story of Kaden and Lexie as well as that of Lucas and Maxie…not mention the next book in the series!

Wow do I love this series!!! The stories keep getting better and better!

Derek and Cassie knew each other growing up...he was the housekeepers kid, she the rich daughter of the family his parents worked for. While they connected one night at the pool, the two went their separate ways during college, not seeing each other again until Derek was a successful tech guy and Cassie was the Editor of a tech magazine in her family's company. Cassie wants to interview Derek and shadow him for an article, but Derek is reluctant to give her full access, not only to his life but to his heart. But once they start spending time together it's easy to see that they need to be together!

Go out and grab this book today. You won't be disappointed!