I’ve made no bones about my love for Melanie Moreland’s books (see my reviews of Bentley, Van, and Over the Fence for example). The Contract is no exception.
The story has a “Beauty and the Beast” feel to it, but not in the usual way. I mean, Katy is a good and kind person, and everybody likes her (except for Richard), and Richard is pretty much a beast to everyone, but mostly Katy, who happens to be his assistant. It’s not giving anything away to say that by the end there is a HEA (I mean, it’s a romance, for Pete’s sake!)
What makes Ms. Moreland’s books stand out, however, is the way she manages to bring depth to her characters. An excellent illustration of this occurs early on when Richard makes repeated judgments about what Katy eats, how she dresses, and how clumsy she is. He’s pretty darn nasty about it every time.
As the story progresses, we find out (at the same time as Richard) the reasons for why Katy dresses poorly, eats very little, and is often clumsy. And the reasons are deep and meaningful. The reader has the opportunity to feel Richard’s shame right along with him, but at the same time, admire Katy for her strength and courage.
Reading that over, it sounds a little convoluted. But it’s hard to put just how REAL these characters are into words without totally giving away the plot.
The story itself has a great background, and the catalysts for the major events all make perfect sense and are natural. There is never anything forced about this author’s plots. Even the twists are never melodramatic but heartfelt and realistic.
I’ll also admit to needing tissues a few times, including during what might be the most romantic gesture I have ever read in a story. But it was the moments with Penny that got me the most because they reminded me of the last times I spent with my father before he became unable to speak or move. Ripped me apart completely, but (as in the past) Ms. Moreland managed to show me the hope on the other side of sadness.
I loved the story, I loved the characters (even Richard’s grumpy ass), and I want to work with The Gavin Group. So yeah, essentially I just want to go live in their world.
The Contract by Melanie MorelandMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Melanie Moreland has fast become one of my favorite authors. I’m a huge fan of the BAM series, but this book is just as good, if not better. The trope is familiar (boss needs fake fiancé, “hires” assistant, shenanigans abound, and true love appears). But that is selling this book incredibly short because Ms. Moreland has a true talent; she creates real characters with depth and natural emotions, which makes it so much easier to root for them. Richard’s “awakening” and Katy’s inherent goodness dovetail perfectly. I loved following the journey of these two and hope there will be more books in their “universe.” For more thoughts on this book, please visit my blog at Fireflies and Free Kicks Fiction Reviews. This book was written based on a complimentary digital copy.
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