You can't go wrong with Susan Elizabeth Phillips. Another entry to the Chicago Stars series. Brett and Rory are the definition of opposites attract. The supporting characters were as enjoyable as the main characters. Rory's stepmom makes the best transformation. Susan Elizabeth Phillips remains a must-read author. I look forward to her next book. I am recommending to all of my romance readers - and reminding them that you don't need to read the other books in the series to follow this one (but you should read the others because they are worth it).

Susan Elizabeth Phillips never disappoints!! I almost read this in one sitting. Love Rory and the family coming together in the end.

Thank you NetGalley and Avon & Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read this eARC for an honest opinion.

I enjoyed Simply the Best. This book is part of the Chicago Stars series but I believe can be read as a stand alone. The banter between Rory and Brett was fun to read and had some laugh out loud moments. This book has it all murder mystery, second chances, forgiveness and of course romance. Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the E-ARC. This my own opinion.

It has been quite some time since this author written a Chicago Stars novel. There is much to like about this latest addition to the series. It has all the classic characteristics of her style - a fast-paced, sports-oriented storyline, satisfying repartee between romantically-incline protagonists and an assortment of unusual supporting characters (including a pink and purple food truck).

Rory Garrett, older half-sister to a famous Chicago Stars football player, is struggling with a host of issues. Betrayed by her business partner and dogged by low self-esteem, she valiantly, if unrealistically, holds on to her dream of being a successful chocolatier. There is no denying her talent and her palate, but her business acumen has left her with a broken-down food truck and no resources.

In contrast, Brett Rivers is an ambitious, highly successful (i.e., wealthy) charismatic sports agent who happens to represent Rory’s brother. Through an unfortunate misunderstanding, the two meet in a not-so-cute meet and their mutual attraction/antagonism drives their relationship to a predictable but satisfying resolution.

Overall, I enjoyed the book as a fun, rom-com escape with a bit of a murder mystery to round out the storyline.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.

"Simply the Best" by Susan Elizabeth Phillips promises a concoction of intriguing ingredients—a hard-driving sports agent, a failed chocolatier, a superstar football player, a quirky food truck, and even a murder mystery. This blend of elements creates a story that's sure to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

The characters, Brett and Rory, represent a striking dichotomy. Brett, the successful and no-nonsense sports agent, stands in stark contrast to Rory, the underachiever with a passion for chocolate. The tension between them, fueled by both attraction and differences, is a recipe for a captivating romance.

The backdrop of the sports world, with its competitiveness and glamour, adds depth to the story. This, combined with the murder mystery, adds an element of suspense and intrigue that will keep readers turning the pages.

Susan Elizabeth Phillips is known for her skill in crafting engaging characters and witty, fast-paced dialogue. "Simply the Best" seems poised to deliver on these fronts, offering both humor and heart.

The concept of forbidden love, with Brett and Rory's complex dynamic, presents a rich opportunity for character growth and emotional depth. Readers can anticipate an exploration of personal values and the price of love that adds depth to the narrative.

Intrigue, romance, and humor are likely to be the driving forces of "Simply the Best." For those who enjoy contemporary romance with a dash of suspense and a healthy dose of humor, this book seems poised to deliver an entertaining and engaging read. Susan Elizabeth Phillips' storytelling prowess suggests that this will be another delightful addition to her collection of romance novels.

As always, SEP can do no wrong. There's a reason she's had such a long and storied career, and why she remains one of my favorite authors, whose books stand up to the test of time. Rory and Brett are...wow. A one night stand that gets messy in the aftermath because he's her brother's agent? Combined with the mystery aspect? NO ONE does romantic suspense like SEP. This book was laugh out loud funny, heartwarming, sexy, and kept me on my toes the entire way. I loved being back in the Chicago Stars universe with these characters, and I can't wait to hold this book in my hands in February!

Simply the Best has a lot going on, in the best way possible.

The quarterback of the Chicago Stars is missing after his on again off again girlfriend is found dead at his house. His sister Rory, a down on her luck chocolatier, and his workaholic ‘take no prisoners’ agent Brett team up to locate him. After a VERY rocky first impression, these two opposites must put their personal and professional problems aside to make sure Clint isn’t charged for his ex’s murder. Their banter and chemistry really propels this story forward, especially layered with Rory’s family drama and Brett’s commitment-phobia.

I’ve been reading Susan Elizabeth Philips for a long time, and to say she’s still got it is an understatement. This is the 10th book in the Chicago Stars Series, and while I’ve come to expect a unique and well written romance, this one immediately set itself apart from the rest. Not only do we get the love story of two characters in the world of professional sports, but this one is a murder mystery to boot!

Arguably my favorite aspect of SEP books, is the secondary romance that’s always included. I loved the one in this book as well. Plus we get cameo’s from a few of our old friends from previous stories. This one is definitely worth the read! Thank you to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The first half of this book had the trademark wit and charm I am accustomed to with this author. But the obstinace of the heroine dragged on too long. The secondary romance wasn't as well developed as other books and the addition of the murder subplot was unnecessary.

Disclaimer - I love this author and I read all her books.
And this one did not disappoint. I love the author's development of quirky characters in strange situations. Usually the female character is down and out and the male character has oodles of money so that theme has kind of played out but I still enjoy the dialogue, the grit and determination of the characters.
I think the magic of these stories is that you can be comfortable reading them because you know how it will end. You just don't know how they'll get there. Sometimes its reassuring to read something that just gives you hope and happiness. And this author delivers.
Enjoy!

Simply the Best
Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Feb. 13, 2024
Harper
* romance
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
#10 Chicago Stars
Fun read! Fast paced! The book follows Rory Meadows as she struggles through Adulting, while watching her brother win at everything. Then the unthinkable happens, there is a murder.
I have only read a few in this series , but I had no trouble understanding the characters,
I would recommend this to rom com lovers.
4 stars

This one continues the usual SEP formula, which I have enjoyed in the past. I guess I find it just a bit . . . overdone after all these years? I did like the inclusion of a suspense plot, though the cover did not convey the, you know, murdery stuff.

But the formulaic quality of the books is maybe not my cup of tea anymore? The woman has none of her shit together, she might have a dream but she is either down on her luck or hopelessly naive. The man is very work-focused and either doesn't believe in monogamy/love or thinks he will be fully satisfied by work. I did like the career stuff for Rory, and how her family relationships developed, but overall this didn't stand out to me as anything special. I feel like SEP writes two main characters: plucky heroine and stuffy, grumpy hero. I do think this story stands out as unusual in terms of the plot, but it's still not in my top five of her books. *shrug*

A drunken, one night stand turns into much awkwardness when Brett Rivers finds out that he slept with his biggest client's step-sister. Rory Garrett goes looking for her younger step-brother only to find him missing and the body of her neighbor at his empty house. Sparks fly as they are both trying to find Clint, and clear his name...

Why I started this book: Phillips is on my autobuy list, and I eagerly requested an ARC from Netgalley.

Why I finished it: Phillips is at her best with a snappy dialog, a wild child heroine, a sports hero, a repentant parent and a step-sibling or two. This book is no exception. Rory is struggling to make her dreams a reality but determined to succeed. Brett thinks that he's got it all figured out... but life requires lots of sacrifice to stay on top. And Clint just needs a lot of help.

After a long wait we’ve got a new book from SEP, and it is a Chicago Stars book at that! I knew I’d love it and just settled in with my kindle and a bunch of hot tea. I knew it would feel like coming home with adventure and humor and romance. And it turned out that way. I read it in one day.

Brett is a sports agent (remember Heath, also a sports agent and Annabel from earlier books in the series? We do get to glimpse them) and Rory a chocolatier. Both MCs are convincing, and they are charming, quirky, and crazy (like all good SEP characters are). (Sorry so many parentheses, wink). There’s even a murder mystery to enjoy.

I highly recommend the book and thank NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

Susan Elizabeth Phillip's newest book is a fantastic read! Rory (a broke, aspiring chocolatier) and Brett's (her brother's sports agent and Heath's #2) meet cute definitely is a little spicy. It is always great to see updates to beloved characters like Heath and Annabelle, but I really loved the way the sparks jumped off the page between Rory and Brett. The murder mystery within this romance was a nice touch and something a little different from SEP's usual. I love all of her books and this one will definitely become part of my "read again" book pile!

Susan Elizabeth Phillips returns to the Chicago Stars and follows her template, one hard-charging alpha male (sports agent Brett Rivers) and one down-on-her luck female (that would be struggling chocolatier Rory Garrett, sister to the Chicago Starts player who Brett represents). This was both a rom com and a suspense, and overall I enjoyed SEP's return to what she does well. If you've read her before, you can almost predict all the beats, but sometimes we like the familiar melody. One major thing I didn't like.
*spoiler*
.
.
.
.
The leads hook up at a party for a one-night stand, and Brett mistakes Rory for a hooker. Why? Totally unnecessary and left a bad taste in my mouth. This is how the book *opens* and I almost made it a DNF. Instead I pretended it didn't happen. It seemed a really dumb plot point, and made no sense. Blech.

Overall, I give it 4 stars. I'd like to read about a put together SEP heroine (I guess that children's book writer might count?) but she seems to love that down on her luck trope. It would be a nice change of pace.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions are my own.

This book is both a romcom and a romantic suspense. It’s takes a talented author to be able to write a book in both and Susan Elizabeth Phillips masters this perfectly. I love how feisty Rory is. Brett doesn’t know what he’s gotten into when he meets Rory. Such masterful writing. I’m so glad I read this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I received a copy from the publisher through Net Galley.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Elizabeth Phillips returns with the next book in her Chicago Stars series where a successful sports agent and the sister of his biggest client engage in a take-no-prisoners battle of the sexes.

This may be SEP's best book yet, and that's saying something, as I'm a huge fan!! I fell in love with the characters, and laughed out loud at their snark.

All fans of rom-com should race to their nearest bookstore immediately! Highly recommended. #SimplyTheBest #NetGalley #SaltMarshAuthors

Happy to be back in the Chicago Stars’ world but this wasn’t great. The romance felt off but I did enjoy the side mystery plot. Not enough humor and really could have done without the political comments—brought the vibe down. Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC

I'm absolutely hooked on the Chicago Stars series, and I can proudly say that I indulged in a delightful readathon, devouring all the books in the series. "Natural Born Charmer," "Match Me If You Can," and "Dream a Little Dream" still hold a special place in my heart. So, when I had the opportunity to get my hands on an advanced copy of book 10, you can bet I gave myself a high-five and celebrated with a little victory dance in my study.

Let me dive into what makes this new addition to the series so incredible: It beautifully weaves together the themes of opposites attracting and enemies-to-lovers, all set against the backdrop of a gripping murder mystery and a dysfunctional family drama. And let's not forget those descriptions of mouthwatering, delectable chocolates that turn into a sweet serenade for your taste buds—talk about a dreamy combination that's impossible to resist!

The book kicks off with an entertaining scene. Rory Garrett Meadows reluctantly finds herself at her baby stepbrother's party, where he's the star football player and an overachiever. For years, Rory has felt like a bit of a failure when comparing herself to his accomplishments. As the night progresses, she ends up getting a bit tipsy, leading to some flirtatious interactions with an overconfident, arrogant, powerful, and incredibly attractive man. Against her usual better judgment, she winds up in his hotel room, only to sober up and discover five hundred dollars left on a table—making her realize she's made a colossal mistake. Little does she know that Brett Rivers, the man in question, has also jumped to conclusions and mistakes her for a different kind of professional.

Brett Rivers gets his first strike from his client Clint Garrett due to his involvement in Clint's tumultuous breakup with Ashley, a woman who accused her of being a gold digger. Brett's advice led to the breakup, but luckily, Ashley eventually dumped Clint for another football player, one with a smaller paycheck, seemingly proving she wasn't solely interested in money. Or was she?

What Brett doesn't realize is that Rory isn't completely innocent when it comes to the breakup. In fact, she's Ashley's neighbor and has found her to be manipulative. Rory decides to come clean about her role in the breakup to Clint, but her plans are foiled when she unexpectedly crosses paths with the pretentious agent who had previously humiliated her at Clint's house. As if that weren't enough, he had also given Clint a key that seemed to be in high demand across Chicago. But Rory's day takes a truly nightmarish turn when, upon returning home, she stumbles upon a lifeless body in her stepbrother's pool, the unfortunate victim being none other than Ashley. Given Rory and Clint's connection to Ashley, they become prime suspects in her murder.

Now, Rory is determined to find her brother before the police do to clear her conscience. On the flip side, Brett is on a mission to locate Clint to manage the media crisis. Despite their initial reluctance to spend more time together, they soon find themselves forming an uneasy alliance to buy some time.

While Rory is intent on finding her brother, she also launches her own investigation to clear his name, all the while grappling with the guilt gnawing at her. She's also forced to contend with her stepmother Kristin's drama queen tendencies, which have always made her feel insecure. Kristin has babied Clint for years, and her constant snarky comments about Rory's lifestyle have only added to the tension.

Rory finds herself smack in the middle of a murder mystery, surrounded by unresolved family drama, and contending with sizzling chemistry with a hotshot, arrogant, workaholic sports agent who also happens to be commitment-phobic. But she's a strong, independent woman who believes she can handle it all—mend her heart, resist her undeniable attraction, and face her own personal demons head-on. Or can she?

As an added bonus, I was delighted to see Heath the Python and Annabella (from "Match Me If You Can") making cameos in this book. Their appearances had me laughing out loud and deepening my connection to the characters. While Brett might have started off as a bit of a jerk, he more than made up for it by the end. I grew to love Rory and Kristin as they navigated the chaos and crisis. This series continues to captivate me, and I eagerly anticipate the next installment.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for generously sharing this entertaining book's digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts. It was an absolute pleasure!

BOOK REVIEW: Simply The Best by @SusanElizabethPhillips

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I lived this book it was such a cute read this was my first read ever by Susan and I cant wait to read more!! it was so good!!!