4.5 Stars!
Any time Lauren Layne releases a new book, I always have to read it. She's never let me down. Her writing is always fun, witty, and engrossing. Once I start one of her books, I don't want to put it down. That's how I felt about the second book in the 21 Wall Street series, Hard Sell.

Hard Sell was a frenemies to lovers / fake relationship romance. Matt and Sabrina have a sordid past. They share a best friend and some nights they don't want to admit to. Matt and Sabrina's lives are tied together, and become even more so, when Matt needs Sabrina's help to save his image. Sabrina agrees to be Matt's fake girlfriend as long as they keep things strictly platonic. Matt agrees, but that's easier said than done for both of them.

I simply adored Hard Sell. It had some of the wittiest dialog I've read in a while. Matt and Sabrina really knew how to banter with each other. I loved the love-hate thing they had going on. I loved it even more when their relationship took a turn toward romance.

Matt and Sabrina were such great characters.They had more in common than they thought. Both were strong, stubborn characters. They were influenced by their upbringings and parents in different ways that led to similar results. I loved the resistance they both had to being in a relationship and marriage, and how their fake relationship with each other changed that.

It was hard for me to find any faults with Hard Sell. I only found myself wanting more. I really would have liked to have learned more about how Sabrina got to where she was in her job. That was probably the only piece missing for me. Well, I wouldn't have minded a longer ending. That's just because I didn't want the story to end, though. I'm very thankful Kennedy and Kate still have a book coming in this series. At least I have another Lauren Layne contemporary romance to wait for!

Lauren Layne teased us Matt and Sabrina’s story in “Hot Asset,” the novel that launched her 21 Wall Street series. Frankly they were more interesting to me than that book’s couple.

And “Hard Sell” doesn’t disappoint. Sabrina is Manhattan’s best “fixer,” an occupation I didn’t know existed but sounds pretty cool. It’s a fancy way, we’re told, of saying she handles the messy stuff and dirty laundry her clients can’t. Apparently it involves lots of time spent with the One Percent and she knows everyone who is anyone, which leads Matt to seek her services. He’s had a weekend of Vegas indiscretions made public and that’s not good for a broker handling millions for skittish clients.

Matt and Sabrina are occasional lovers but frenemies first. The author builds the suspense as to why exactly Sabrina has a hate on for Matt, to the point I was desperate to know. Because they seem so great together, right? And when the big reveal comes, it doesn’t disappoint.

I began this book thinking I knew these characters. But I was wrong. Sabrina seemed like a cynic, but she’s not. Matt seemed like an affable, easy-going guy, but he’s not. In fact, the plot is twisty enough I changed my mind several times trying to figure out who exactly was zooming who. Add in a most unexpected matchmaker and you’ve got a fun read with a great payoff.

ARC supplied for an honest review.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title compliments of NetGalley and the publisher**

I really enjoyed the first book in the 21 Wall Street series and I was anxiously awaiting the second book. I was not at all disappointed! These books are filled with great characters and you can't help but want to pull for them!

Matt Cannon may still be young for someone in his position, but he is smart as a whip and has risen quickly through the ranks at the firm due to his brilliance. Where he isn't always as smart is in his personal life. A poor decision at the bachelor party he was attending in Vegas gets blown out of proportion and lands him on the front page of the Wall Street Journal and has predictably landed him in hot water with his bosses and put his ethics into question for the clients. His bosses tell him he has to clean up his act and fast. But how exactly will he do that?

Sabrina Cross can fix just about anything and so when in doubt, Sabrina's your lady. When Matt finds himself in need, he calls in Sabrina, but knows it won't be all smooth sailing. While these two have known one another for years, they clash like nothing else due to past baggage. Even with that looming over them, Sabrina is the best at what she does and being able to act as Matt's girlfriend to help right his image is something she knows she can do. But the question is, can she keep feelings out of it and keep it strictly professional?

I loved this book and the chemistry between Sabrina and Matt was evident from the get-go. It didn't matter if they were sparring or loving, the sparks were there and it was fun to hang on for the ride to see where they eventually ended up. I also can't wait to see what happens in the next installment. I'm hoping Kennedy gets out of his own way and finds happiness. This is such a fun series of books and one that I've quickly come to love.

Hard Sell by Lauren Layne is the second book in the Wall Street Series. It is a stand-alone but it really helps to read book one first. I’m really enjoying this series. In book one, we meet a beautiful FBI agent who is investigating a Wall Street whiz for insider training. In that book, we are introduced to Matt and Sabrina, two enemies who somehow always end up in bed together.

At the age of twenty eight, Matt Cannon is incredibly successful and rich. But his playboy ways have landed him in trouble with his bosses. He hires Sabrina “The Fixer” Cross to restore his reputation. How does she do this? By posing as his fake girlfriend. But, suddenly, it doesn’t feel so fake anymore.

I really liked this book. I found the plot to be intriguing and well thought out. The characters were great—very complex and interesting. There was smoking hot chemistry between the hero and the heroine.

If you are looking for a good contemporary romance, this book is for you!

*Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for granting me an ARC!*

Let me start off by saying that the model on the cover is hot, hot, hot! I love his suit!! (Just had to get that out of the way. Heehee!)

We first meet Matt and Sabrina in book 1 of this series, in Ian and Lara’s story. You know from that book that they had a very heated *something* in their past. So if you’ve read book 1, it should come as no surprise that this is an enemies-to-lovers story. It should also come as no surprise that these two are explosively hot together. As in whoa!-fan-yourself-bec-they’re-on-fire kind of hot. When you read this, you’ll see what I mean. 😉

And while I really enjoyed Matt and Sabrina’s story, what I really liked the most about this series is the friendships evident between all the MC’s and secondary ones.

I have to say though that the one I’m dying to read is Kate and Kennedy’s book. Can’t wait for their story!

Every time I read a book by Lauren Layne I figure there is no way I will like this story better than her last. Wrong again! Matt and Sabrina's story is an extremely satisfying and a non-cookie cutter read. This frenemies to lovers story made my week. Run, do not walk, to get this book.

Another 5 star book from Lauren Layne! I love the new Wall Street series and I'm enjoying each character's journey! Matt and Sabrina have been sworn enemies with benefits since a date four years ago. Matt now needs help and Sabrina's the only one who can assist, against her better judgement. I really enjoyed the banter and all of Matt and Sabrina's interactions, especially their trip to the Hamptons. A really light and funny read, perfect for summer. I can't wait to read Kennedy and Kate's story!

First off, Lauren Layne is a must buy for me. I was really looking forward to this one in her new series and I was fortunate to receive an ARC for an honest review.
This is book 2 in her Wall Street series. It focuses on Matt and Sabrina. I looooved them. Sabrina is such a strong heroine. She is fierce. Matt is a sexy hero. I loved their love/hate banter ... that’s one of my favorite genres to read. Overall another 5 star book from LL. Looking forward to Kennedy and Kate’s book. Also wouldn’t mind reading about Jarod—- the sexy billionaire!

I was looking forward to reading Hard Sell and whilst it did not disappoint. I must admit the love/hate push/pull between Matt and Sabrina wasn't as prevalent as it had been during Ian and Lara's story.

But I enjoyed it nonetheless and there certainly was enough going on throughout to easily hold my interest. Plus, I liked that Matt and Sabrina's romance was slow to build and that chemistry was always present. It's just a shame that the reason why Sabrina and Matt's relationship was so rocky is never really explained and that a lot of the passion and angst between them seems to happen off the page.

Yet, it was extremely well paced, sweet and all of the characters are extremely likable. And I'm certainly looking forward to reading Kennedy and Kate's story and would happily recommend Hard Sell to others.

I absolutely loved this book. It’s my favorite in this series. Don’t get me wrong, Ian and Lara in book 1 are hot, but I LOVED Sabrina and Matt, Their banter was sexy, and sparks flew off the page every time they were together. Their past was believable and the way the author worked it out so they could be together was fantastic. The plot twist and conflict towards the end was a nice way to close it out. I think fans of Lauren Layne will love this installment.

Matt Cannon is the youngest broker on Wall Street. A sexy, twenty-eight year old, who happens to be filthy rich, Matt can and often has any woman he wants. But when his behavior out of Wall Street is questioned by not only his bosses but his clients, Matt is faced with an ultimatum: clean up his image or say goodbye to his beloved job. In other words, Matt needs a real girlfriend pronto. Someone who can be trusted not to stab him in the back or expect a ring at the end of their charade. Because that's all it would ever be. Matt doesn't believe in relationships. Therefore, no one is better for the job than PR genius and his archnemesis Sabrina Cross, the best fixer in Manhattan. Matt and Sabrina's relationship has always been turbulent. If they can keep from killing each other, they end up in bed. Always. So, when Matt asks Sabrina for help, she is quick to agree as long as their going steady remains platonic. No more hanky panky for these two lovers. Easier said than done. Once upon a time, Matt really hurt Sabrina. So much so, that she swore never to let her heart get trampled on again. But as Matt and Sabrina spend time together and get to really know each other, they learn that they are nothing like the other ever saw or knew. Their chemistry is combustive and as long as they play nice, they will not only save Matt's job but keep Sabrina's reputation intact. Their hearts, however, now, that's a whole other question... A fun Lauren Layne romance with naughty, sexy men and their beautiful, smart women.

I received Hard Sell by Lauren Layne for free in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed it, but I may be biased because I LOVE a good slow burn/enemies to lovers story. I don't think that I've ever read a book by Lauren Layne that I haven't liked. The love scenes were hot, there were parts that made me giggle, and heart warming scenes at all. (I know-- mushy review, but hey, I really like it.) Do yourself a favor and pick up this book to read. You won't regret it. I know I didn't.

One of my absolute favorite Lauren Layne books ever. I am loving this new series featuring investment bankers. I enjoyed this second book even more than the first. Now I'm anxiously awaiting Kennedy and Kate's story. If you're looking for a light hearted romance read, definitely check out anything and everything by Lauren Layne!

3.5 Stars

I've been a fan of Layne's for a while now and I am officially on board with her latest series, 21 Wall Street. After meeting Sabrina and Matt in Ian's book, I was excited to get their story. It's not exactly a true enemies-to-lovers story, more like (stealing from Layne's own description here) frenemies-to-lovers.

After Matt gets into a scandal (pictures of him in Vegas), his bosses give him an ultimatum: settle down (with a nice girl) or get the boot. Needing a woman who can abide by his no long-term attachments, he turns to Sabrina. I loved their chemistry and constant tension that made it so fun to read about.

Slowly they open up to each other and what was initially physical attraction turns to something more. It's a short novel, but the story is complete and checks all the boxes of a good romance.

Lauren Layne is my go-to author for fun, sexy contemporary romance. I will definitely be reading more in this series.

Matt and Sabrina fell into bed together the first night they met. From then on it was bickering and disagreements and continued hookups. But was it really hate fueling it? Or a big misunderstanding and a ton of chemistry?

Until Matt could use Sabrina's help and they are forced to confront their history and feelings.

Loved this story!! Rom com at its finest! Great banter and chemistry! Loved the cameo of Georgie, from Walk of Shame!

WOW! Just WOW! I loved Sabrina and Matt's story.
I have discovered Lauren Layne recently and I can't get enough of her books. She has the wonderful gift of skillfully putting a story together, with fascinating and strong characters, loving moments and so many laugh out loud opportunities.

This book is the second in the series. We are first introduced to Sabrina and Matt in the first book "Hot Asset"(Ian and Lara's story). When I read about Matt and Sabrina, I knew that their story would be witty, entertaining and HOT. Ms. Layne did not disappoint.

I love the strong character that Sabrina portrays. The no nonsense kind of girl that will call it like she sees it. She would not let Matt get away with anything. Their banter is soooo entertaining! Matt does not stay behind as well and keeps up with Sabrina. Their chemistry is pretty hot and their story just pulls you in. I loved that I did not have to worry about a whiny heroine and overbearing hero. These two were just perfect and their story kept me entertained for hours.

Definately a winner!

Ms. Lauren has a special talent in writing stories with close friends, intriguing story lines, and sexy times. This is the second book in the Wall Street series and I love all of the characters.

When Matt finds himself in hot water with his bosses after a recent trip to Las Vegas, he needs to clean up his image. Since Sabrina is a PR genius and well known ‘fixer’ for various problems, Matt wants to hire her to help him for the next month. In the first book and again in this story, we are aware that Matt and Sabrina have some issues with each other but not clear on the reason. As we learn more about their first encounter, I’m still not sure why the comment was made and what was going on between them. Matt can make some stupid and hurtful comments to Sabrina and I’m surprised she didn’t just haul off and smack him.

As I read more, it was very emotional hearing about Matt and Sabrina’s childhoods but had never shared with anyone else before. Their childhoods made them think they didn’t want a long-term relationship with anyone. I loved their interactions whether they were arguing, teasing or almost sharing their feelings.

I loved seeing Ian and Lara, Kennedy, and Kate again. The men are among the top in the investment world and Kate keeps them and their schedules in line. After Ian and Lara’s story in the first book, it’s so sweet to see them together in this book. The three men are great friends, who support each other but also give each other a hard time. When Lara enters the group, the three ladies also become close and it’s fun to see everyone together.

Matt has been a math genius since he was young and I found it interesting that he has a difficult time controlling his tendencies to work on numbers in his head. I can imagine how difficult that might be to handle and would have liked to see that discussed further.

This was such a fun book and I can’t wait to read Kennedy’s story and see how Ms. Layne gets the ‘blue blood’ together with Kate. I’ve loved the first two couples but I just know that the story about Kate and Kennedy will be extra special!

Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this new work.

First, let me say you don't have to read the series in order. Each is a standalone so you can jump right in. This is a frenemies book and done so well. I loved Matt & Sabrina and their messed up relationship. They both have similar issues which just made things a little more interesting. A very fun and steamy red.

I really like this author and the books so far in this series, including Hard Sell. I don’t read many frenemies to lovers books, but Matt and Sabrina really worked in this story. Loved the banter and sass between these two, both having issues in their past and childhood adding to their own insecurities where love is concerned, but when the two realize what’s going on, it’s pretty darn magical and romantic. Lots of steamy moments between these two, very swoon worthy, very worth the read. Can’t wait to read Kennedy and Kate’s book (hint hint!).

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.