This was an enjoyable boss/worker romance. This is what I would consider a slow building romance but I really enjoyed the initial too and fro of the main couple and the sexual tension between them that is evident from the start. This book had a nice dose of humour but there was plenty of drama too.
Looking forward to the next book from this series.

I was provided with a copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley; there was no inducement or obligation.

A flirty, fun, sexy and a little bit of tear jerker kind of read. I loved loved Fired. Melanie and Dominic were fun to watch fight their attraction for each other. I loved the close knit family aspect. When you Mel and Dom share their pasts and open up more to each other it is such a beautiful thing. Mel and Dom both have their stubborn sides and it's one of this I kind of hate you but I don't kind of relationships. The bickering is fun to watch. I couldn't put this one down and I so can't wait to see more from Cora Brent. I'm defiantly going through my back log and reading what I know is waiting to be read by Cora Brent. Fired is such a breathe of fresh air romance.

​​​​​4.5 Stars!

Who would have thought that you could find your true love in an upscale pizzeria. That's essentially what happens in Cora Brent's latest novel, Fired. It is the first book from her brand new series Worked Up, and it can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Due to the insanity that comes along with a celebrity wedding, bean counter and temporary event planner Melanie Cruz is unemployed. She finally finds a local position with Espositos, a well-known pizzeria on the cusp of expansion. As assistant manager, Melanie handles the finances, in addition to some employee relations and customer service. She loves being a part of this family-owned business and excels at whatever she has to do. Melanie's office is in the back of Espo 2, which is due to open in the very near future. Dominic Esposito is one of the owners and her boss, and their seductive sexual chemistry is compounded every time they are together. They finally give in to their desires, which evolves into so much more. However, some baggage from Dominic's past needs to be resolved in order for their relationship and Espositos to be a success.

This is an well-written novel, and Melanie and Dominic are interesting, complex and genuine. They are a hot and fun couple, both in and out of the kitchen. In addition, Dominic's grandmother and brother add a real sincerity and genuineness to the plot. If you enjoy a book with a lot energy and passion, then Fired is for you.

Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

This is the start of a new series by Cora Brent. Melanie is recovering from a divorce and from the fact that she was just fired from her job because of unfortunate events. Dominic is trying to get his family restaurant business back to where it used to be. Melanie has moved to Phoenix and is going to be managing a small chain a family owned pizzerias which belong to Dominic and his brother. They have different management styles and tend to clash but they also have tremendous chemistry. It's a fun and romance and it's interesting to see it in the restaurant setting. I would read the next book in the series.

Melanie and Dom are a sizzling off the pages in fired . A great combination of family, fun, sexual attraction, witty comical sexually infused banter and discovery.
Melanie Cruz has just accepted a new position in an expanding family run pizza business. It is different than what she has previously done but she knows she is more than capable of this new adventure. The only thing that she wasn't expecting is the brooding , hard headed co- owner Dominic. Sure he may be so easy on the eyes but his gruff exterior leaves her finding it difficult to read him.
Dominic wants to get this extension of the family restaurant off and running and all is going as planned until his brother takes it upon himself to hire a new employee. Melanie is beautiful, intelligent has a savvy business sense and is completely distracting him just by her presence !
If he tries to avoid her and let her do her job they may get along just fine but sometimes fate has other plans! I loved the push and pull for dominance in this story each character wants to be the leader which takes you on a very interesting and fun read!
Loved Melanie and Dominic's story!
~~Michele McMullen ~~

Cora Brent is a new author for me and this is book 1 in her new series. I really loved this story and could not put it down. Dom and Mel had wonderful chemistry and I really enjoyed rading this story. It is a fun, romantic story with lots of really great characters.

Mel gets fired and she gets hired at a new pizza place as the office manager/asst manager/finance person for a growing pizza restaurant. Her bosses are Gio and Dom. She gets the job thru Gio's wife, Tara. The second she meets Dom, they both fall into heavy lust.

But Dom does not do serious, and he is now her boss. So both fight their attraction for the first 50% of the book. The second half of the book has them working to make it work and falling in love and I totally LOVED watching that happen.

Both Mel and Dom are complicated and great characters. Their love story was sweet,romantic and fun. This was a well written story and I cannot wait for more stories in this series.

Another amazing book but Cora Brent!! Hands down one of my favorite go-to authors so it’s no surprise that Fired set me on fire.

Fired is book 1 in a new series called Worked Up by Cora Brent. Dominic is determined to bring his family restaurant back to its #1 status, where it used to be. Dominic and Melanie first meet when Dominic’s brother hires her to work for them and it’s very apparent that there is a sizzling chemistry between them and sparks begin to fly. Melanie has come to Dominic and his brother after having been fired from her other job that she was fantastic at and the firing left her feeling displaced. She is also reeling because she has just gone thru a horrible divorce. Now she is starting over with a new job , in a new place, and her new job she will manage a small chain of family-owned pizzerias in a downtown Phoenix neighborhood. Dominic as Melanie’s boss was awesome , for he didn’t know what to make of Melanie. Dom cannot stand the fact that he is highly intrigued and attracted to his newest employee and he was adamant that he would never cross that line of the boss/employee relationship and take it a step further yet he continued to pursue Melanie and they continued to do that dance all couples do who are afraid to take things further yet so badly want to… So finally they give in to the pulsing desires they are both feeling and they end up agreeing to keep their “relationship” a secret. What they don’t realize is others are so aware that Dominic and Melanie like each other A LOT and that they have something going on, so it really isn’t worth it to keep it a secret because others are more aware than they think. See Dom is the classic Dominant – one who has to control everything. And he has this secret… one that is going to blow up in his face if he doesn’t tell anyone about it. So he blows hot and cold with Melanie. Dominic is so sexy, intelligent, loves his family , mysterious, alpha male to a T. Yet he doesn’t see the forest for the trees at times. Melanie is a good woman, strong, intelligent, faithful, sweet yet has been dealt some rough blows in her young life of recent and she is just looking for that place that can be her port from the storm, and she believes she has found it, believes she has found her MR. Right even though Dominic does this push/pull with Melanie.
What happens to Dom and Melanie when the secret comes out? This is an emotional, angsty, passionate, steamy romance read which was a great read and I enjoyed every moment. I loved reading about the main characters and even the secondary characters . I look forward to the next book in the series.


My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

All systems get fired up each and every time this main couple lay eyes on each other, folks. Honestly, I think my favorite part was them trying to steal glimpses of one another without getting caught. However, they both are bound and determined not to give in to their moth to a flame attraction, especially the hero, at least not for quite some time. But like trying to convince a volcano not to erupt, they just couldn’t stop nature from taking its course. This slow burn romantic tale eventually ignites into some very hot, dirty talking, after hours smexy scenes. Unfortunately, doubts, insecurities, and a very unwelcome big reveal near the end almost doom them before they fully commit to one another. I must say I was extremely disappointed to learn the dark, dirty secret and truly wish the author had not included it. It cheapened that person’s character and made the epilogue less believable.

Told by alternating dual point of views, we see Melanie and Dominic tip-toe around each other in silent infatuation and reluctance to be the first to admit their feelings. Melanie’s sassy, feistiness was a great counter to Dominic’s brooding, keeps to himself, intimidating to most people demeanor. She was patient but also quick to put him in his place, yet was not the clingy, nagging type. He continues to hold her at arm’s length thinking she deserves better. After the skeleton in the closet comes out to haunt him, I had to wonder if he was right.

As a lover of relationship angst and restaurant themed romantic tales, I was all set to give this book a 5 star rating. However, after the details of a decade old vengeful past transgression comes to light, I just couldn’t see the people involved putting it behind them and working together like it never happened. Sure, there was remorse, but I found it hard to forgive an act that almost destroyed a family.

Fortunately, the writing did flow, and I stayed fully engaged. I’m just still upset about what crossed a line in my personal main character code of conduct rules.

Title: Fired, Series: Worked Up (Book 2), Author: Cora Brent, Pages: 318, stand-alone but part of a series, slow burn, instant attraction but determined not to give in, very graphic steamy scenes, unwelcome big reveal about a hurtful, vengeful past transgression, both celibate for some time, no love triangle, both go one one date with someone else but nothing happens.

(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship or affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)

After a celebrity wedding mishap leaves Melanie Cruz without a job, she is lucky to find someone who will take a chance and hire her. Although working at a pizza place was never on her radar, Esposito's is a family establishment that she is proud to be a part of... and working alongside her sexy boss doesn't hurt ether...

Dominic Esposito is an unapologetic workaholic. After seeing his family business fold when he was just a teenager who couldn't do anything about it, he is even more determined to make the new Esposito's a success. Nothing will distract him from his goal... even the new hire who he can't stop thinking about...

This was a good read! Dominic is the hard-working and focused co-owner of Esposito's Pizzeria, who is in the midst of opening his and his brothers second store. He is gruff, scares the employees and only cares about his family and making their businesses a success. Melanie is at a crossroads in her life. Recently divorced, and having lost her job, when she gets hired on at the pizzeria, she loves the family atmosphere immediately. While she and Dominic butt heads initially, they both only have so long before they can hold out on their attraction...

Dominic and Melanie's story is a sweet, workplace romance with a slow burn relationship and plenty of heat. This book is the first in the brand new Worked Up Series, where we are introduced to the family and friends of the Esposito's Pizzeria in Phoenix, AZ. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.

3.5 stars. I could see some of Cora Brent's signature writing here, but it just didn't quite all come together for me completely in this book. I really enjoy her Gentry series books, so it's difficult not to compare. She definitely brought similar writing, some nice humor and good side characters that I loved. I just didn't feel the connection with the couple all that strongly in this one, which brought it down just a little bit for me. But, I'm looking forward to more in the series.

Melanie gets fired from a prestigious job at a resort because she tries to help them out when they are shortstaffed and it backfires on her. After handing out resumes everywhere, she finally gets a job at a family pizzeria. Gio and Dom are brothers who are opening their second pizzeria and hire Melanie as Assistant Manager to work along with Dom in the new restaurant. As the weeks go on, the chemistry between Melanie and Dom becomes hotter and hotter. They start a secret affair because this isn’t the first time Dom has dipped into the company ink and it always ends with a heartbroken employee and Dom promised Gio that it wouldn’t happen again. Dom can’t help it that Melanie is always on his mind ... it’s different from the other times. But there are tears and heartbreak ahead for the whole Esposito family.

This is the first book that I have read by Cora Brent and it won’t be my last. This book just pulls you in and gets you involved in the story. One minute I was laughing out loud and the next minute I was crying. This is a sweet romantic story with family dynamics that will melt your heart. No one is a billionaire or a Hollywood star, they are just ordinary people living their lives and I was captivated by their journey. This is one of those books that just sneaks up and gets you in the heart. I highly recommend this book ... you won’t regret it.

I received an ARC copy courtesy of Montlake Romance through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

4.25☆ This is the first book I've read by Cora Brent and I enjoyed it a lot. Even if I did find it slow to get going, but certainly the second half of this story more than made up for it. As the two main characters were likable, the story itself was easy to read, had some angst and particularly during the latter stages I found it incredibly hard to put down. Yet there were also times I did struggle, especially early on. As I didn't quite get that connection between Dominic and Melanie or feel like there was much of a spark. Although I did enjoy their romance once it got going. As for the secondary characters they were really likable too and I would love to read more about them in the future. Especially Dominics best friend Jason and cousin Steven. Whose backstory I found really intriguing. And after reading Fired I can certainly see myself checking out more books by this author. I'd also happily recommend this story to others.

Cute storyline. Characters had great chemistry and the storyline went along at a great pace. Great start to a new series.

I can't believe this is the first book I've read by this author! Where have I been! Obviously, I'll be on the hunt for more because this was an awesome contemporary romance with well developed characters, an interesting unique storyline which revolved around a pizzeria (my favorite food!) and fascinating and intriguing supporting characters. I loved Dom and Melanie's chemistry and how they dealt with their relationship. Can't wait for the next book in this series! Would definitely recommend if you like contemporary romances!

4.5 ☆
This is my first book by Cora Brent.

What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Dual POVs
Standalone
HEA

I hope Steven and Lucy get their own stories.
I look forward to reading more from this author.

Fired
By: Cora Brent
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

Find out if Thing are as the appear

Still reeling from a nasty divorce, Melanie Cruz’s pride takes another beating when she loses her job at an upscale resort. After weeks of unsuccessful interviews, she finally accepts a job managing a small chain of family-owned pizzerias in a downtown Phoenix neighborhood. The job also comes with Dominic Esposito, her overbearing but ridiculously handsome boss. Falling for him might be the last thing she expects, but maybe it’s the one thing they both need. She’s sassy and sweet he’s snappy and controlling but together they might help heal each other.
I really enjoyed this book and it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.

Thanks you Netgally for letting me read and review.

I was excited to try Fired out because it featured a restaurateur and a pizzeria at the center. I'm all for foodie romances as it combines two of my favorite things.  How could I say no to that? I'm sad to say though, this book wound up falling flat for me. I had a hard time connecting to any of the characters as they were very much one-dimensional. Melanie was a typical spunky heroine, while Dominic was the gruff douche. They were lacking in layers, in my opinion, which made them both very forgettable. I also didn't think there was much chemistry between the two of them. Even the sex scenes fell really flat for me, and I wound up skimming them as they bored me. I think the only reason I kept pushing through the book was because of the actual pizzeria, and because I really liked Dominic's bond with his brother. Other than that, I can't remember much from Fired. It's a shame though because if the book had been executed a bit more differently, this could have been a really fun boss-employee romance!

✦Review: FIRED: Worked Up, Book 1 by Cora Brent http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-a7e
Publication Date: October 31, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4.5 Stars

I love when I find a new author! Melanie, Dominic and his family drew me into the story immediately – and made me feel like I was one of them. I particularly enjoyed the sexual tension build-up. Yes, Melanie and Dominic fell into the “new relationship – does he? Does she?” stuff, but that resolved quickly and nicely. This was an enjoyable romance.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle $3.99 http://amzn.to/2y7wPDW

Fired is book 1 in a new series by Cora Brent. I was excited to see this and immediately wanted to read it being a huge fan of her Gentry Boys series.

Dominic is determined to bring his family restaurant back to where it once was. He and his brother Gio want to honor their grandfather as they start a second restaurant and have hired Melanie to help with all the administrative aspects of the business.

Dominic at first comes across as a bit gruff, not very friendly and it's clear that his focus is on the restaurant and he isn't looking for distractions. Melanie comes in and it's an immediate distraction for Dominic. Melanie was sweet and I could tell that she was such a genuinely nice person.At first these two have a bit of a rough time just being around each other. The attraction is there on both parts but he's doing what he can to avoid it by almost being a bit of a jerk.

I liked this storyline, I thought it was cute, I loved the idea of the two brothers carrying on their grandfather's tradition. There were also some moments between Melanie and Dominic that were sweet as they seemed to eventually find a rhythm with each other once they decided to go for it. I had issues however with feeling the relationship between the two of them. I just couldn't quite connect to the them as much as I would like.

Overall it was an ok read that had some sweet moments.