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Undone
Shae Shanahan has no idea how to sew a button or steam a shirt. How he ends up as the assistant to the famous wardrobe stylist Rowan Abernathy is beyond him. But his need for stable employment in an expensive city is as dire as Rowan’s need for an assistant to actually stick around. Or maybe an assistant he can order around and mold to his ridiculous standards. So much so that Shae has threatened to quit dozens of times—at least in his head. Is maiming your boss with a satin hanger a crime?
Rowan might be an expert when it comes to selecting the perfect looks for his celebrity clients, but his love life is as much a disaster as his desk. He needs Shae to organize his schedule but keeps him at arm’s length regarding anything personal. When the cracks begin to show and Shae sees the generous, vulnerable man beneath the arrogant, sarcastic exterior, it makes him beyond curious to know more.
When a fake kiss leads to even hotter encounters, they have trouble keeping their relationship strictly professional. Shae sees just how gentle the man can be and feels cared for when it’s only the two of them. But Rowan’s defenses are hard to break, and he makes his boundaries more than clear. When Shae finally has enough and needs to protect his own heart—and his sanity—will Rowan finally see what’s been right in front of him all along?
Rowan might be an expert when it comes to selecting the perfect looks for his celebrity clients, but his love life is as much a disaster as his desk. He needs Shae to organize his schedule but keeps him at arm’s length regarding anything personal. When the cracks begin to show and Shae sees the generous, vulnerable man beneath the arrogant, sarcastic exterior, it makes him beyond curious to know more.
When a fake kiss leads to even hotter encounters, they have trouble keeping their relationship strictly professional. Shae sees just how gentle the man can be and feels cared for when it’s only the two of them. But Rowan’s defenses are hard to break, and he makes his boundaries more than clear. When Shae finally has enough and needs to protect his own heart—and his sanity—will Rowan finally see what’s been right in front of him all along?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2023
About the author
Christina Lee
54 books2,046 followersChristina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
February 11, 2023
2-3 stars.
The first half was so slow and felt like a Rule Breaker knock off.
The second half picked up but I don’t think the relationship or connection ever felt believable.
The best part of the book was the buddy read chats 😂
The first half was so slow and felt like a Rule Breaker knock off.
The second half picked up but I don’t think the relationship or connection ever felt believable.
The best part of the book was the buddy read chats 😂
March 20, 2023
romance book that’s sorta missing the romance me thinks!!!! i got hoodwinked by a pretty cover. not the first time it’s happened and won’t be the last.👍🏼 maybe home plate will be the only CL book i love😖💔
January 31, 2023
Honestly, I struggled with the first half because neither of the MC were likable, they were both snobs and judgmental. Shae was so prejudiced against rich people and fashion world but it was very obvious it was out of envy and my God, he kept telling us how poor he was and how rich were the ppl around him. And don’t get me started on Rowan. He was kind of a douche in the beginning and also a judgmental snob. Frankly,I kind of had to push through it but it does get a lot better towards the end and I did love them together. The sex was hot and when they started to get closer and to take off their shells they were pretty great together and I enjoyed it a lot more.
Read
August 16, 2023Ehh hmm 🤔 I didn’t love or hate it…mainly I just felt indifferent towards it. No rating since idk what I would rate it…
I couldn’t really feel that romantic connection between Rowan and Shae… and the romantic declaration felt out of place and didn’t feel organic..
Overall alright but not the best Christina Lee book I’ve read.
Tim Paige did a good job with the narration and it can be found on Scribd!
I couldn’t really feel that romantic connection between Rowan and Shae… and the romantic declaration felt out of place and didn’t feel organic..
Overall alright but not the best Christina Lee book I’ve read.
Tim Paige did a good job with the narration and it can be found on Scribd!
January 30, 2023
Not going to lie, I struggled at times with this one because I didn't really care about one of the MCs for at least the first quarter of the book.
I simply couldn't get my head around why Shae would fall for Rowan at all and, unfortunately, only getting one POV from Shae didn't help much in giving any kind impression of his pretty crappy a*hole of a boss.
Shae was fun from the off though, and he kept me reading when I wanted to put the book down and give up.
I also had faith in Christina Lee as an author because I've generally always enjoyed her stories and I knew she'd have a plan in hand to make me change my mind about Rowan.
And, as the story progressed, we get glimpses of the real Rowan, hiding behind his cold and aloof personality and you start to get snippets of information which reveals the hurt and the heavy walls he's put up to protect himself.
One of the things I did love about this book from the beginning though was the depth of information Christina gives about the stylist career, something she knows plenty about, having been one herself in New York.
This brought a huge sense of realism to the day to day activities and banter going on between Shae, Rowan and their celebrity client Kendall. Who I also absolutely loved. She was such a warm and caring personality and it was her interventions and conversations with Shae that let him see behind Rowan's barricades to the vulnerable man underneath.
There's very much a slow burn vibe with this book, it's not overly steamy - which works beautifully for the narrative - and I very much appreciated the step away from the traditional top/bottom roles as Rowan is a side (someone who doesn't like giving or receiving anal penetration).
Christina also writes superb first kisses and this book's one is no exception, it's a truly tender moment where Rowan allows his guard to be broken.
Overall I had a positive experience once I'd got over the first quarter hurdle of really not liking Rowan's attitude and the final part of the book, through the Third Act tension/break-up moment and into the HEA, was really well done.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
I simply couldn't get my head around why Shae would fall for Rowan at all and, unfortunately, only getting one POV from Shae didn't help much in giving any kind impression of his pretty crappy a*hole of a boss.
Shae was fun from the off though, and he kept me reading when I wanted to put the book down and give up.
I also had faith in Christina Lee as an author because I've generally always enjoyed her stories and I knew she'd have a plan in hand to make me change my mind about Rowan.
And, as the story progressed, we get glimpses of the real Rowan, hiding behind his cold and aloof personality and you start to get snippets of information which reveals the hurt and the heavy walls he's put up to protect himself.
One of the things I did love about this book from the beginning though was the depth of information Christina gives about the stylist career, something she knows plenty about, having been one herself in New York.
This brought a huge sense of realism to the day to day activities and banter going on between Shae, Rowan and their celebrity client Kendall. Who I also absolutely loved. She was such a warm and caring personality and it was her interventions and conversations with Shae that let him see behind Rowan's barricades to the vulnerable man underneath.
There's very much a slow burn vibe with this book, it's not overly steamy - which works beautifully for the narrative - and I very much appreciated the step away from the traditional top/bottom roles as Rowan is a side (someone who doesn't like giving or receiving anal penetration).
Christina also writes superb first kisses and this book's one is no exception, it's a truly tender moment where Rowan allows his guard to be broken.
Overall I had a positive experience once I'd got over the first quarter hurdle of really not liking Rowan's attitude and the final part of the book, through the Third Act tension/break-up moment and into the HEA, was really well done.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
March 15, 2023
I’m confused about how I feel about this. I really liked Shae. I even began to like Rowan, who was a well-done complex character, especially considering we never get his POV. Side characters were great. Story was okay. But I felt like romance was missing, or something? Even that doesn’t feel right. But they didn’t get together until the very end and that made me sad because some time with them together would’ve been nice.
Jamie said the first half is like a Rule Breaker (Lily Morton) knockoff in her review and I agree.
I liked the “side” preference for the rep, but would not choose to read it again.
Jamie said the first half is like a Rule Breaker (Lily Morton) knockoff in her review and I agree.
I liked the “side” preference for the rep, but would not choose to read it again.
April 30, 2023
✰ 4 stars ✰
“This man had left me undone in a way I wasn’t sure I’d recover from. Like he’d rearranged my insides, and my heart now throbbed on the outside of my body.
Only for him.
And that was when I knew I was in love with Rowan Abernathy.”
I've had a week's worth of heavy and emotional reading, so when I finally decided to check Undone off my pending tbr list, I was prepared for the level of sheer cuteness and just pure joy I was getting myself into! O-M-G! This was such a delight to read! 💕💕 It was literal sunshine and dark thunderclouds with the perfectly balanced light drizzle that broke free into a clear and beautiful day! Hahaha - forgive the metaphors - I'm just - it's so rare to read a book about an age-gap office romance, where both parties involved are actually likable! 😊😊
This book was Devil Wears Prada meets Two Weeks Notice in the gayest and warmest and softest of ways! Since Shae Shanahan's less than exemplary first day in Rowan Abernathy's office in the hopes of securing a part-time job - what started off as a temp job eventually turns into a permanent fixture as his personal office assistant. Helping him at every beck and call, despite any experience in the fashion industry, with no sense of style or flair for designing - it's six months of adapting to each other - to learning each other's ticks - to seeing how strong their dynamic is - despite how much Shae is constantly unnerved by Rowan's presence..
“I wanted to stick my nose in his neck and bask in it. But then he’d open his mouth and ruin
everything.
“We’re discussing your shiny personality,” I deadpanned.
“Who needs a shiny personality when your clothes can do all the work?”
And yet, despite it all, begrudgingly so, he slowly starts to fall for him and all his prickly charm - in such an organic and very believable, if not endearing way. I loved Shae's snark - his witty comebacks to Rowan's disgruntled comments - I had such a silly smile on my face, as Rowan slowly thawed his appearance in front of Shae, how hard he worked to make Shae's parents feel comfortable on their trip to New York, how he always put his utmost best effort into his job - how he allowed Shae to learn all his vulnerabilities, his insecurities, and admire him for the respect and care he returned with that trust. 😍😍
“And keep people’s eyes off your homeless sneakers and on your adorable face.”
Ugh, even his backhanded compliments were becoming endearing.
Honestly, it really was just so adorable - he was so ridiculously adorable! that you can't fault Rowan for falling for his charm - and still fight it because of his code of conduct and work ethic. *chuckles* Having it told entirely from Shae's POV was also so sweet - because he really is such a sweet guy - almost unrealistically so - so family-friendly, so genuine in his kindness, his awe of rich luxuries, his understanding of Rowan on a personal level and vice versa. 🩷🩷🩷🩷
“He rolled his eyes, but his breaths were a bit ragged, and fuck me if I didn’t want to keep touching him and make him unravel again.”
Once they gravitated from co-workers to lovers, the sex scenes weren't overtly explicit, but just the tenderness in which Rowan opened up to him, how Shae admitted that Rowan had ruined clubbing and casually hooking up for him - that moment on the beach!!! When a couple just looks at each other after a kiss - not conveying anything with their words but their eyes - and then in the silence leans in for another kiss - M.Y. W.E.A.K.N.E.S.S 🥹🥹🥹
“Shae…you’re here,” he said, patting my cheek. Good God, he was drunk. “You brought the sunshine back with you.”
And even though we have the obligatory break-up scene and the eventual talk of forbidden office romances, there was such a levity to it - because as much as they both admitted it wouldn't be ethical - it was adorbs at how much Rowan still didn't want him to go - and Shae's voice for the story was so light-hearted, such a spark of fresh air and just a joyous levity to it, that made it all the more endearing at how Rowan allowed himself to fall for him.
His face grew panicked as he gripped his chest. “If you leave, you’ll take my heart with you. You’ll take my whole heart, and I’ll only have a black, vacant hole where it used to be.”
My entire body trembled at his words. Did he even know what the hell he was saying?”
🥺🥺
And I adored all the supporting characters - from Shae's gay best friend and roommate, Casey, to Kendall, the beautiful TV hostess, Rowan was assigned as her personal stylist - not to mention, Shae's loving and supportive parents. It was such a lovable read - a minimal-angst read that just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside - something I really needed to end my weekend on. It also makes me very curious to check out some of the other MM Romances by Christina Lee and if they have the same light-hearted touch to make me completely undone with feels. 🫠🫠🫠
“This man had left me undone in a way I wasn’t sure I’d recover from. Like he’d rearranged my insides, and my heart now throbbed on the outside of my body.
Only for him.
And that was when I knew I was in love with Rowan Abernathy.”
I've had a week's worth of heavy and emotional reading, so when I finally decided to check Undone off my pending tbr list, I was prepared for the level of sheer cuteness and just pure joy I was getting myself into! O-M-G! This was such a delight to read! 💕💕 It was literal sunshine and dark thunderclouds with the perfectly balanced light drizzle that broke free into a clear and beautiful day! Hahaha - forgive the metaphors - I'm just - it's so rare to read a book about an age-gap office romance, where both parties involved are actually likable! 😊😊
This book was Devil Wears Prada meets Two Weeks Notice in the gayest and warmest and softest of ways! Since Shae Shanahan's less than exemplary first day in Rowan Abernathy's office in the hopes of securing a part-time job - what started off as a temp job eventually turns into a permanent fixture as his personal office assistant. Helping him at every beck and call, despite any experience in the fashion industry, with no sense of style or flair for designing - it's six months of adapting to each other - to learning each other's ticks - to seeing how strong their dynamic is - despite how much Shae is constantly unnerved by Rowan's presence..
“I wanted to stick my nose in his neck and bask in it. But then he’d open his mouth and ruin
everything.
“We’re discussing your shiny personality,” I deadpanned.
“Who needs a shiny personality when your clothes can do all the work?”
And yet, despite it all, begrudgingly so, he slowly starts to fall for him and all his prickly charm - in such an organic and very believable, if not endearing way. I loved Shae's snark - his witty comebacks to Rowan's disgruntled comments - I had such a silly smile on my face, as Rowan slowly thawed his appearance in front of Shae, how hard he worked to make Shae's parents feel comfortable on their trip to New York, how he always put his utmost best effort into his job - how he allowed Shae to learn all his vulnerabilities, his insecurities, and admire him for the respect and care he returned with that trust. 😍😍
“And keep people’s eyes off your homeless sneakers and on your adorable face.”
Ugh, even his backhanded compliments were becoming endearing.
Honestly, it really was just so adorable - he was so ridiculously adorable! that you can't fault Rowan for falling for his charm - and still fight it because of his code of conduct and work ethic. *chuckles* Having it told entirely from Shae's POV was also so sweet - because he really is such a sweet guy - almost unrealistically so - so family-friendly, so genuine in his kindness, his awe of rich luxuries, his understanding of Rowan on a personal level and vice versa. 🩷🩷🩷🩷
“He rolled his eyes, but his breaths were a bit ragged, and fuck me if I didn’t want to keep touching him and make him unravel again.”
Once they gravitated from co-workers to lovers, the sex scenes weren't overtly explicit, but just the tenderness in which Rowan opened up to him, how Shae admitted that Rowan had ruined clubbing and casually hooking up for him - that moment on the beach!!! When a couple just looks at each other after a kiss - not conveying anything with their words but their eyes - and then in the silence leans in for another kiss - M.Y. W.E.A.K.N.E.S.S 🥹🥹🥹
“Shae…you’re here,” he said, patting my cheek. Good God, he was drunk. “You brought the sunshine back with you.”
And even though we have the obligatory break-up scene and the eventual talk of forbidden office romances, there was such a levity to it - because as much as they both admitted it wouldn't be ethical - it was adorbs at how much Rowan still didn't want him to go - and Shae's voice for the story was so light-hearted, such a spark of fresh air and just a joyous levity to it, that made it all the more endearing at how Rowan allowed himself to fall for him.
His face grew panicked as he gripped his chest. “If you leave, you’ll take my heart with you. You’ll take my whole heart, and I’ll only have a black, vacant hole where it used to be.”
My entire body trembled at his words. Did he even know what the hell he was saying?”
🥺🥺
And I adored all the supporting characters - from Shae's gay best friend and roommate, Casey, to Kendall, the beautiful TV hostess, Rowan was assigned as her personal stylist - not to mention, Shae's loving and supportive parents. It was such a lovable read - a minimal-angst read that just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside - something I really needed to end my weekend on. It also makes me very curious to check out some of the other MM Romances by Christina Lee and if they have the same light-hearted touch to make me completely undone with feels. 🫠🫠🫠
February 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this! It was a really sweet story that was fun at the same time. I really enjoyed the banter between Shae and Rowan and how they circled their feelings for each other.
I think that some may find Rowan exasperating at times but I could understand why he was the way he was. I wish we got more from him because he was a very layered character and I felt like I didn’t get to fully know all of him.
Shae’s friend Casey was pretty hard on Rowan and only talked about negative things about him and Shae’s job. If he was such a great friend I think he would’ve realized that Shae liked his job even if it wasn’t what he wanted to do with his life. He actually liked to argue to a certain extent with Rowan and if not for that facet of his job I think he would have been bored and not have stayed.
I liked Shae’s coworkers and his family was cute. There isn’t that much character growth in these characters because they aren’t a huge part of the story. Shae’s parents did support him and I loved that.
I liked how Rowan had different preferences in the bedroom and after being treated so poorly by his last boyfriend that Shae was more than willing to accept him and to encourage him to embrace these things about himself. It was not something I’ve ever read about, being a side, and I thought it was different and refreshing.
*ARC received for review
*All thoughts and opinions are my own
I think that some may find Rowan exasperating at times but I could understand why he was the way he was. I wish we got more from him because he was a very layered character and I felt like I didn’t get to fully know all of him.
Shae’s friend Casey was pretty hard on Rowan and only talked about negative things about him and Shae’s job. If he was such a great friend I think he would’ve realized that Shae liked his job even if it wasn’t what he wanted to do with his life. He actually liked to argue to a certain extent with Rowan and if not for that facet of his job I think he would have been bored and not have stayed.
I liked Shae’s coworkers and his family was cute. There isn’t that much character growth in these characters because they aren’t a huge part of the story. Shae’s parents did support him and I loved that.
I liked how Rowan had different preferences in the bedroom and after being treated so poorly by his last boyfriend that Shae was more than willing to accept him and to encourage him to embrace these things about himself. It was not something I’ve ever read about, being a side, and I thought it was different and refreshing.
*ARC received for review
*All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 29, 2023
Ahhhh I loved Rowan and Shae.
If you’re looking for grumpy/sunshine with such funny banter (which I loved and cracked up at), this is for you.
Shae is from Midwest small town now living in NYC and accepts a temp job working in fashion. He is so chipper and clumsy and just amazing personality.
Rowan is a man of the city. He is very much into fashion. He’s grumpy and has been burned in the past. He is all about his job.
Ahh these two were so much fun interacting with each other. But Rowan, is a tough cookie to break and doesn’t want hookups and relationships and so on. Until he cracks once crossing the boss employee line as well.
I really adored these men together. They were perfectly matched and make the other person better. I adored the secondary characters and what a fantastic read it was.
If you’re looking for grumpy/sunshine with such funny banter (which I loved and cracked up at), this is for you.
Shae is from Midwest small town now living in NYC and accepts a temp job working in fashion. He is so chipper and clumsy and just amazing personality.
Rowan is a man of the city. He is very much into fashion. He’s grumpy and has been burned in the past. He is all about his job.
Ahh these two were so much fun interacting with each other. But Rowan, is a tough cookie to break and doesn’t want hookups and relationships and so on. Until he cracks once crossing the boss employee line as well.
I really adored these men together. They were perfectly matched and make the other person better. I adored the secondary characters and what a fantastic read it was.
February 3, 2023
Undone is a standalone MM Contemporary Romance with a HEA. Slow-burn, Office Romance.
1POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 260 pages, January 30th 2023.
Oh now this was an easy and fast read. A very enjoyable uncomplicated office romance I thoroughly enjoyed. Just what I wss in the mood for. Hit the spot perfectly.
1POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 260 pages, January 30th 2023.
Oh now this was an easy and fast read. A very enjoyable uncomplicated office romance I thoroughly enjoyed. Just what I wss in the mood for. Hit the spot perfectly.
January 24, 2023
I enjoyed this! I am always in the mood for a good boss/employee romance, and this did not disappoint. Shae and Rowan could not help falling in love with each other despite Rowan's tendencies to keep things professional. Rowan was a grumpy as ever (I can never get enough of grumpy characters) and Shae could not resist him. I enjoyed the slow-burn of their relationship even though it took forever for Rowan to come to his senses. Also, I have never read a mm book about a side (a person who does not participate in anal intercourse), so that was very interesting! I liked the different ways there were able to explore their sexual relationship without intercourse. It kept things quite steamy!!
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 31, 2023DNF. It's not grabbing me.
October 9, 2023
I've given this a B for narration and a C- for content at AudioGals.
The couple of books I’ve listened to by this author in the past have been emotional, character-driven romances featuring complex characters with real heart and depth to them. I freely admit that I picked up Undone for review expecting more of the same – but I got something completely different and far less satisfying.
Shay Shanahan somehow blags his way into a job as assistant to the famous ‘stylist to the stars’ Rowan Abernathy. Shay doesn’t know how to sew on a button, let alone how to tell his Gucci from his Prada, but Abernathy is desperate to fill the position and Shay is desperate to be able to eat and pay his rent, so he takes the job when it’s offered. Over the following months, Shay makes himself pretty much indispensable to Rowan, who is a one-note grump, and fits right in with the rest of the team, who all appreciate his outgoing personality and sense of humour – and the way he can keep Rowan on track.
I was going to write a more extensive description of the plot, but it’s basically your bog-standard boss/assistant romance. Rowan is a growly and demanding genius at what he does but he’s rubbish at keeping himself organised and his personal life is a mess; Shay is upbeat and brilliant at keeping his boss in line, doesn’t take any crap and happily snarks his way through the day. I’m sure you’ve read or listened to this story loads times – and sadly, Undone has nothing new to offer that makes it stand out or work better than the countless other similar romances out there. In fact, the overall impression I was left with is – “it’s Rule Breaker minus the humour, chemistry, emotional heft and depth of characterisation.” The characters are nice enough, but they’re stereotypes – and the most interesting thing about Rowan is that he’s a side (doesn’t enjoy penetrative sex, either giving or receiving) and has been made to feel inadequate because of it by previous partners.
Worst of all is that there’s no chemistry or connection between Shay and Rowan. We don’t get Rowan’s perspective because the story is told entirely from Shay’s PoV, but that shouldn’t be a bar to being able to convey a sense of the attraction being felt by the non-PoV character (see Rule Breaker, again) – and even though we are in Shay’s head, there’s no real sense of attraction to Rowan coming from him either. When they hook up for the first time, it comes completely out of the blue; so much so that I had to check to make sure I hadn’t skipped a few chapters.
Tim Paige’s smooth baritone is easy on the ear, and his narration is well-paced with clear differentiation between all the characters and good female voices. His characterisations of the two leads fit them well – Rowan’s dialogue is pitched deep with a bit of gravel thrown in, and Shay sounds appropriately younger (the age gap is about ten years, I think) and livelier, although there isn’t always a huge amount of difference between his ‘Shay voice’ and his ‘narrating voice’, which meant that there were times I couldn’t tell if Shay was speaking out loud, thinking, or narrating. The dialogue is generally infused with a good degree of expression, but sometimes I wanted a bit more in the narrative.
Undone is unoriginal and even dull in places. The characters are barely two-dimensional, there’s no chemistry between them and it seems like the author forgot to actually write the romance into the story. Tim Paige is a talented performer but sadly, this wasn’t the best use of his skills.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
The couple of books I’ve listened to by this author in the past have been emotional, character-driven romances featuring complex characters with real heart and depth to them. I freely admit that I picked up Undone for review expecting more of the same – but I got something completely different and far less satisfying.
Shay Shanahan somehow blags his way into a job as assistant to the famous ‘stylist to the stars’ Rowan Abernathy. Shay doesn’t know how to sew on a button, let alone how to tell his Gucci from his Prada, but Abernathy is desperate to fill the position and Shay is desperate to be able to eat and pay his rent, so he takes the job when it’s offered. Over the following months, Shay makes himself pretty much indispensable to Rowan, who is a one-note grump, and fits right in with the rest of the team, who all appreciate his outgoing personality and sense of humour – and the way he can keep Rowan on track.
I was going to write a more extensive description of the plot, but it’s basically your bog-standard boss/assistant romance. Rowan is a growly and demanding genius at what he does but he’s rubbish at keeping himself organised and his personal life is a mess; Shay is upbeat and brilliant at keeping his boss in line, doesn’t take any crap and happily snarks his way through the day. I’m sure you’ve read or listened to this story loads times – and sadly, Undone has nothing new to offer that makes it stand out or work better than the countless other similar romances out there. In fact, the overall impression I was left with is – “it’s Rule Breaker minus the humour, chemistry, emotional heft and depth of characterisation.” The characters are nice enough, but they’re stereotypes – and the most interesting thing about Rowan is that he’s a side (doesn’t enjoy penetrative sex, either giving or receiving) and has been made to feel inadequate because of it by previous partners.
Worst of all is that there’s no chemistry or connection between Shay and Rowan. We don’t get Rowan’s perspective because the story is told entirely from Shay’s PoV, but that shouldn’t be a bar to being able to convey a sense of the attraction being felt by the non-PoV character (see Rule Breaker, again) – and even though we are in Shay’s head, there’s no real sense of attraction to Rowan coming from him either. When they hook up for the first time, it comes completely out of the blue; so much so that I had to check to make sure I hadn’t skipped a few chapters.
Tim Paige’s smooth baritone is easy on the ear, and his narration is well-paced with clear differentiation between all the characters and good female voices. His characterisations of the two leads fit them well – Rowan’s dialogue is pitched deep with a bit of gravel thrown in, and Shay sounds appropriately younger (the age gap is about ten years, I think) and livelier, although there isn’t always a huge amount of difference between his ‘Shay voice’ and his ‘narrating voice’, which meant that there were times I couldn’t tell if Shay was speaking out loud, thinking, or narrating. The dialogue is generally infused with a good degree of expression, but sometimes I wanted a bit more in the narrative.
Undone is unoriginal and even dull in places. The characters are barely two-dimensional, there’s no chemistry between them and it seems like the author forgot to actually write the romance into the story. Tim Paige is a talented performer but sadly, this wasn’t the best use of his skills.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
April 10, 2023
Christina Lee does it again with sizzling chemistry, top-tier banter, and the most endearing love confession; I could not get enough of Rowan and Shae. The slow burn, the animosity to mask feelings, and two positively endearing characters had me binge reading this book.
I adored Shae and his whole background. He has the square peg trying to fit in a circle vibe going for him. He is so out of his element in the fashion industry but he makes up for it by being positively charming and determined. Then there is Rowan, my deliciously complex man had more layers than an onion. He was such a tortured, jaded soul and I wanted to wrap his prickly butt in a hug and tell him it would be okay. These two together were like oil and water but its all a front.
I loved the pacing of their relationship, the hint of the forbidden with the boss/employee dynamic, and ultimately how things played out. The lust and attraction were balanced with banter and getting to know each other that combined into an explosive combination. Rowan grew so much over the course of the story and by the end he was a completely different man, for the better. And this isn't to say Shae didn't find himself either; he just grew and matured in a different way. Another tantalizing read from Christina Lee.
I adored Shae and his whole background. He has the square peg trying to fit in a circle vibe going for him. He is so out of his element in the fashion industry but he makes up for it by being positively charming and determined. Then there is Rowan, my deliciously complex man had more layers than an onion. He was such a tortured, jaded soul and I wanted to wrap his prickly butt in a hug and tell him it would be okay. These two together were like oil and water but its all a front.
I loved the pacing of their relationship, the hint of the forbidden with the boss/employee dynamic, and ultimately how things played out. The lust and attraction were balanced with banter and getting to know each other that combined into an explosive combination. Rowan grew so much over the course of the story and by the end he was a completely different man, for the better. And this isn't to say Shae didn't find himself either; he just grew and matured in a different way. Another tantalizing read from Christina Lee.
October 20, 2023
3.75⭐️ 1.25🌶️
“If you leave, you’ll take my heart with you. You’ll take my whole heart, and I’ll only have a black, vacant hole where it used to be.”
What I love about Christina’s books is how she can somehow turn out a really enjoyable story in under 300 pages. This book is no exception.
Rowan and Shea were great, and the grumpy sunshine trope was executed well. Shea was sassy and straddled the line of taking Rowan’s attitude and standing up for himself when warranted. And I liked seeing Rowan soften and struggle to admit how much Shea brought to his life, but once there, was totally gone for him. For the amount of time invested, it worked for me
“If you leave, you’ll take my heart with you. You’ll take my whole heart, and I’ll only have a black, vacant hole where it used to be.”
What I love about Christina’s books is how she can somehow turn out a really enjoyable story in under 300 pages. This book is no exception.
Rowan and Shea were great, and the grumpy sunshine trope was executed well. Shea was sassy and straddled the line of taking Rowan’s attitude and standing up for himself when warranted. And I liked seeing Rowan soften and struggle to admit how much Shea brought to his life, but once there, was totally gone for him. For the amount of time invested, it worked for me
January 30, 2023
Even though he has no experience in the world of fashion, Shae Shanahan takes a temp job assisting celebrity wardrobe stylist Rowan Abernathy who works on a well-known talk show. The aloof, demanding, and gorgeous stylist drives him crazy, but their bickering banter turns flirty as the sexual tension between them gets thicker. A “fake” kiss in front of Rowan’s ex changes everything as very real feelings get involved.
This book was so sweet! Christina Lee excels at writing these kinds of earnest characters. It took a long time before we really got to know Rowan, and I loved how gentle Shae was with him once Rowan finally opened up about his past. Rowan has built up walls to keep people away, but inside he’s a bit fragile. I loved the way his character was written. Shae is just a total sweetheart too. I loved the dynamic between the characters and felt like it wasn’t the typical type of relationship we see in romance novels. If you are looking for a sweet, funny, book with some emotional parts, definitely check this one out. I read it after reading a very dark and violent book and it was really the perfect palate cleanser!
This book was so sweet! Christina Lee excels at writing these kinds of earnest characters. It took a long time before we really got to know Rowan, and I loved how gentle Shae was with him once Rowan finally opened up about his past. Rowan has built up walls to keep people away, but inside he’s a bit fragile. I loved the way his character was written. Shae is just a total sweetheart too. I loved the dynamic between the characters and felt like it wasn’t the typical type of relationship we see in romance novels. If you are looking for a sweet, funny, book with some emotional parts, definitely check this one out. I read it after reading a very dark and violent book and it was really the perfect palate cleanser!
January 20, 2023
Sniff, sniff… Five Glowing Stars! I loved this book though I cried way too much. Shae and Rowan, I loved them both right away. Shae and his sweet adorable, clumsy foot in mouth self ad Ro and his brooding and grumpy kind of snobby ways. Shae was good for Ro, working together then hooking up and being kinda friends. Then when things got intense and Rowe pulled away and stopped the hooking up, my heart hurt for Shae because he had feelings and Ro was treating him differently, more grumpier then usual. Then Ro broke my heart when he was finally opening up to Shae and talking about his father and he cried, I lost it, big ugly cry from me. So then it was one last hook up, gah…. But then everything got busy and then it was Shae’s last day working with Ro, all the tears, but I’m glad it hadn’t taken too much longer for Ro to go to Shae and confess his love, finally, happy ending. This book was a slow burn with angst, grumpiness, steam and banter turned arguments, so good! A Must Recommended Read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I really enjoyed this age gap, odd couple romance that made me smile often. The issues that surround employer/employee relationships were explored and discussed thoroughly the longer these men orbited one another while experiencing a mutual attraction. Shae’s a little oblivious to Rowan’s attraction, at first, but he becomes more assertive of his needs and desires over the course of the many months on the job. I liked how sweet Kendall was written, and how she cared for both Rowan and Shae. I also adored Shae’s family, and how loving they were of him, and Rowan, when they finally met.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I really enjoyed this age gap, odd couple romance that made me smile often. The issues that surround employer/employee relationships were explored and discussed thoroughly the longer these men orbited one another while experiencing a mutual attraction. Shae’s a little oblivious to Rowan’s attraction, at first, but he becomes more assertive of his needs and desires over the course of the many months on the job. I liked how sweet Kendall was written, and how she cared for both Rowan and Shae. I also adored Shae’s family, and how loving they were of him, and Rowan, when they finally met.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
June 18, 2024
Audiobook
M/m, fashion, enemies to lovers, boss/employee, side/bottom, small town/big city, 20s/30s
The plot: Shae got a temp job in fashion and his boss is kind of the worst. Imagine... Devil wears Prada but Anne Hathaway is a guy named Shae and the devil wearing Prada is Rowan and they get together at the end.
Spice: medium (not MANY scenes but the ones that are there are hot)
My opinion: I enjoyed the banter between shae and Rowan. I thought things developed somewhat organically but then seemed to explode like some kind of slow gas leak that just needed one little spark
M/m, fashion, enemies to lovers, boss/employee, side/bottom, small town/big city, 20s/30s
The plot: Shae got a temp job in fashion and his boss is kind of the worst. Imagine... Devil wears Prada but Anne Hathaway is a guy named Shae and the devil wearing Prada is Rowan and they get together at the end.
Spice: medium (not MANY scenes but the ones that are there are hot)
My opinion: I enjoyed the banter between shae and Rowan. I thought things developed somewhat organically but then seemed to explode like some kind of slow gas leak that just needed one little spark
April 1, 2023
This was fine but not really my kind of book. The cover was really beautiful though
March 6, 2023
Ugh…this was so boring and I felt nothing for these characters. This was not what I know from this author. She had one of my favorite books in Home Plate, but this was so messy and came off juvenile. There was so much telling that I couldn’t connect with the characters. The dialogue seemed simple and awkward and I did not feel any kind of sexual tension or connection with Shae and Rowan.
This was all done in Shae’s point of view and I didn’t really care for him. He claims Rowan is so difficult to work with and the worst boss, but besides some diva behavior I didn’t understand it. I think there was also a missed opportunity with Rowan. He was intriguing enough and I would have loved to have gotten his POV.
In the end, I almost just threw in the towel multiple times and ended up skimming the epilogue. This was just a lot of telling and I felt nothing. Such a huge miss for me.
This was all done in Shae’s point of view and I didn’t really care for him. He claims Rowan is so difficult to work with and the worst boss, but besides some diva behavior I didn’t understand it. I think there was also a missed opportunity with Rowan. He was intriguing enough and I would have loved to have gotten his POV.
In the end, I almost just threw in the towel multiple times and ended up skimming the epilogue. This was just a lot of telling and I felt nothing. Such a huge miss for me.
January 18, 2023
Really loved this book. I adore Rowan!
February 2, 2023
I loved this boss/employee, grumpy/slightly-less-grumpy romance!
I am so weak for stories with characters like Rowan who are guarded and lonely. It’s so satisfying when they find their person and fall in love! Shae waltzes into Rowan’s life when he takes a temporary position as Rowan’s assistant. Of course, it quickly becomes more permanent, and Shae doesn’t put up with Rowan’s attitude. I loved these guys together and I thought their banter was perfection. Much of the book is their back-and-forth dialogue and it was a pleasure to read. I also laughed out loud quite a few times. The side characters were a lot of fun and it was cool getting a look at what things are like behind the scenes of a talk show. Christina is one of my favorite authors and this is a must read, especially if you’re looking for a romance that will make you swoon and put a big smile on your face. Happy reading!
I am so weak for stories with characters like Rowan who are guarded and lonely. It’s so satisfying when they find their person and fall in love! Shae waltzes into Rowan’s life when he takes a temporary position as Rowan’s assistant. Of course, it quickly becomes more permanent, and Shae doesn’t put up with Rowan’s attitude. I loved these guys together and I thought their banter was perfection. Much of the book is their back-and-forth dialogue and it was a pleasure to read. I also laughed out loud quite a few times. The side characters were a lot of fun and it was cool getting a look at what things are like behind the scenes of a talk show. Christina is one of my favorite authors and this is a must read, especially if you’re looking for a romance that will make you swoon and put a big smile on your face. Happy reading!
February 11, 2023
A pleasure. I didn't even bother reading the synopsis I just knew once I delve in, there is no turning back. I read this book almost in one sitting, it was a sweet, funny and heartfelt story. I liked both our MCs, they felt genuine and real. I adored their banter and general connection. I could totally see what they found in each other.
The book is written from Shae Shanahan POV. He recently came to NY from a small town, enjoying the big city and what it has to offer. He might not know what he wants to do with his life - YET - but he is willing to work to find his way. That's how he gets the temporary job as Rowan Abernathy assistant. He might not know anything about fashion but as he tells the stylist he is a fast learner (and there's always WikiHow..). They hit it off from the start, meaning bantering and arguing, criticizing and complaining about one another.
Rowan is aloof and arrogant with impossible standards and while Shae wants to strangle his a few times a day, in the end he does appreciate how seriously Rowan takes his job (even if it doesn't make any sense). Shae complains about his job and "relationship" with Rowan to his best friend and roommate but in the end it's obvious why he just practices quitting and doesn't actually do it. He LIKES Rowan, more than the obvious attraction (there is no denying how good looking he is..). Rowan is a very private person (unlike himself - a chatty open book) but every glimpse Shae has into Rowan's world shows a very sensitive and caring person.
After one sort of planned kiss things start to change between them. Shae is younger and more carefree. He enjoys what they have together and wants to see where it takes them. Rowan, 10 years older, and more mature knows all the reasons this is oh so wrong. But for both saying "no" to one another is not so easy and as Rowan expected there are complications to any choice they make.
While "office romance" can be cute (at least in books ;)) it's not a good idea on so many levels and I really appreciated the way Christina dealt with it in this one. It gave this book an even more genuine feel. Shae awakened something in Rowan he wasn't ready to deal with, it was difficult for him to see Shae everyday knowing he wants more of this bright sunlight in his rather gloom and gray life. It was hard to resist what he was offering. Especially when Shae wasn't putting a lot of seriousness into it (as he considered this job a temporary one or at least, that's what he kept telling himself).
There is much more to this story. It's not a very long read without too much angst yet it hits all the right places leaving me with a warm feeling and a stupid smile on my face.
Grab it now! It's simply a treat!
The book is written from Shae Shanahan POV. He recently came to NY from a small town, enjoying the big city and what it has to offer. He might not know what he wants to do with his life - YET - but he is willing to work to find his way. That's how he gets the temporary job as Rowan Abernathy assistant. He might not know anything about fashion but as he tells the stylist he is a fast learner (and there's always WikiHow..). They hit it off from the start, meaning bantering and arguing, criticizing and complaining about one another.
Rowan is aloof and arrogant with impossible standards and while Shae wants to strangle his a few times a day, in the end he does appreciate how seriously Rowan takes his job (even if it doesn't make any sense). Shae complains about his job and "relationship" with Rowan to his best friend and roommate but in the end it's obvious why he just practices quitting and doesn't actually do it. He LIKES Rowan, more than the obvious attraction (there is no denying how good looking he is..). Rowan is a very private person (unlike himself - a chatty open book) but every glimpse Shae has into Rowan's world shows a very sensitive and caring person.
After one sort of planned kiss things start to change between them. Shae is younger and more carefree. He enjoys what they have together and wants to see where it takes them. Rowan, 10 years older, and more mature knows all the reasons this is oh so wrong. But for both saying "no" to one another is not so easy and as Rowan expected there are complications to any choice they make.
While "office romance" can be cute (at least in books ;)) it's not a good idea on so many levels and I really appreciated the way Christina dealt with it in this one. It gave this book an even more genuine feel. Shae awakened something in Rowan he wasn't ready to deal with, it was difficult for him to see Shae everyday knowing he wants more of this bright sunlight in his rather gloom and gray life. It was hard to resist what he was offering. Especially when Shae wasn't putting a lot of seriousness into it (as he considered this job a temporary one or at least, that's what he kept telling himself).
There is much more to this story. It's not a very long read without too much angst yet it hits all the right places leaving me with a warm feeling and a stupid smile on my face.
Grab it now! It's simply a treat!
January 30, 2023
Shae Shanahan is trying to follow his own path n New York trying out various temp jobs until he finds his passion. He is organized but also clumsy, awkward, and lacks some practical skills. But he is a hard worker determined to make it.
Rowan Abernathy is a famous wardrobe stylist for a popular talk show host. He is a perfectionist, bossy, broody, arrogant, sarcastic, and demanding. And he is desperate enough to hire Shae despite his lack of fashion sense or skills.
This sunshine/grumpy pairing should not work at all. But somehow Shae pushes back just enough and works hard enough to at least earn Rowan's respect. They verbally spar, challenge each other, and the antagonism ramps up the sexual tension. They awaken a passion in each other that neither expected and both know is a bad idea
This is a snarky, witty, passionate, should-be-forbidden, boss-employee, age-gap, opposites-attract romance with the backdrop of fashion. Rowan has trust and abandonment issues with big walls and boundaries in place. Shae is trying to find his own way and is in a difficult position. But he is also one of the few people that Rowan will let down his guard for even if it is only for short periods of time. I have not read a book with a character quite like Rowan and my heart hurt for him at times. I loved how Shae is just a breath of fresh air and how he just wants to make Rowan feel safe. And how generous and caring Rowan could be at times. They really are an interesting match, but both are also stubborn and afraid of having their heart broken.
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Rowan Abernathy is a famous wardrobe stylist for a popular talk show host. He is a perfectionist, bossy, broody, arrogant, sarcastic, and demanding. And he is desperate enough to hire Shae despite his lack of fashion sense or skills.
This sunshine/grumpy pairing should not work at all. But somehow Shae pushes back just enough and works hard enough to at least earn Rowan's respect. They verbally spar, challenge each other, and the antagonism ramps up the sexual tension. They awaken a passion in each other that neither expected and both know is a bad idea
This is a snarky, witty, passionate, should-be-forbidden, boss-employee, age-gap, opposites-attract romance with the backdrop of fashion. Rowan has trust and abandonment issues with big walls and boundaries in place. Shae is trying to find his own way and is in a difficult position. But he is also one of the few people that Rowan will let down his guard for even if it is only for short periods of time. I have not read a book with a character quite like Rowan and my heart hurt for him at times. I loved how Shae is just a breath of fresh air and how he just wants to make Rowan feel safe. And how generous and caring Rowan could be at times. They really are an interesting match, but both are also stubborn and afraid of having their heart broken.
January 30, 2023
Shae Shanahan needs a job. Rowan Abernathy needs an assistant. Shae doesn’t know how to steam clothes or sew buttons back on. Rowan is a wardrobe stylist with Daddy issues and a mess everywhere but his talent.
Somehow Shae is hired and he & Rowan manage to find a way to make their unlikely pairing work – in more ways than one. Shae keeps threatening to quit, but as cracks in Rowan’s defenses start to show Shae the man underneath the arrogance he wears as a shield, Shae is finding it harder to put his foot down and leave.
Their chemistry shouldn’t work, but it does, and one fake kiss busts that zipper wide open. Rowan begins to let Shae in, though Shae doesn’t always see it that way. Rowan’s ex did a number on him and Shae wants nothing more than to make him realize that. Rowan isn’t a top or bottom, but a side. He likes to do everything besides peachy play, though he will make exceptions and he is still an incredibly diligent lover, but he keeps his lines drawn to protect himself.
When Shae finally realizes that he’s in love with his boss and that Rowan won’t be returning those feelings, he gives his notice, helps Rowan find a new assistant and goes to spend time with his family. Will Rowan realize that he’s in love with Shae and that it’s safe to let Shae in or will his grand gesture be too little, too late?
Christina Lee’s standalone story set in a world that she herself worked in is beautiful, honest and builds a relationship based around more on how many times each man can top or bottom for one another. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that, because that’s also fun)
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Undone
Christina Lee
Somehow Shae is hired and he & Rowan manage to find a way to make their unlikely pairing work – in more ways than one. Shae keeps threatening to quit, but as cracks in Rowan’s defenses start to show Shae the man underneath the arrogance he wears as a shield, Shae is finding it harder to put his foot down and leave.
Their chemistry shouldn’t work, but it does, and one fake kiss busts that zipper wide open. Rowan begins to let Shae in, though Shae doesn’t always see it that way. Rowan’s ex did a number on him and Shae wants nothing more than to make him realize that. Rowan isn’t a top or bottom, but a side. He likes to do everything besides peachy play, though he will make exceptions and he is still an incredibly diligent lover, but he keeps his lines drawn to protect himself.
When Shae finally realizes that he’s in love with his boss and that Rowan won’t be returning those feelings, he gives his notice, helps Rowan find a new assistant and goes to spend time with his family. Will Rowan realize that he’s in love with Shae and that it’s safe to let Shae in or will his grand gesture be too little, too late?
Christina Lee’s standalone story set in a world that she herself worked in is beautiful, honest and builds a relationship based around more on how many times each man can top or bottom for one another. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that, because that’s also fun)
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Undone
Christina Lee
February 16, 2023
Meh.. 2.5 stars rounded up
I love forbidden boss/employee romances, especially when the characters have some snarky banter and a hate-to-love/love-to-hate relationship. This kind of delivered on that but didn't meet my expectations
Rowan was pompous but he did show good humor enough times that when Shae went on and on about how terrible he was to work for I kind of felt like, but.. he isn't so bad? Shae was almost just as judgmental when he was constantly assuming that Rowan was too sophisticated for Shae's parents or Shae's hometown
I had to roll my eyes at Shae's constant habit of tripping or running into things. This character trait is so not cute and can we please stop using this trope in 2023? Why is this person falling all over the place? Are his shoe laces untied (of his so-unfashionable beat up converse sneakers (oh wait this is literally a fashion trend))?
I felt there could have been more interest brought to the sex scenes. Rowan's character prefers non-penetrative sex, which I don't think I've read in a book before. There could have been some exploration of intimacy without penetration but it was pretty much the usual mouth or hand business
The whole "we can't be together", "i can't trust you because my ex was a cheating jerk" thing dragged on for longer than I cared for. By 80% I was pretty much ready for the story to wrap up
I liked the fashion industry setting and The Devil Wears Prada-esque-ish story, but this one mostly missed the mark for me. Rounding up to three stars because despite my annoyances with details of the story it was mostly an alright read
I love forbidden boss/employee romances, especially when the characters have some snarky banter and a hate-to-love/love-to-hate relationship. This kind of delivered on that but didn't meet my expectations
Rowan was pompous but he did show good humor enough times that when Shae went on and on about how terrible he was to work for I kind of felt like, but.. he isn't so bad? Shae was almost just as judgmental when he was constantly assuming that Rowan was too sophisticated for Shae's parents or Shae's hometown
I had to roll my eyes at Shae's constant habit of tripping or running into things. This character trait is so not cute and can we please stop using this trope in 2023? Why is this person falling all over the place? Are his shoe laces untied (of his so-unfashionable beat up converse sneakers (oh wait this is literally a fashion trend))?
I felt there could have been more interest brought to the sex scenes. Rowan's character prefers non-penetrative sex, which I don't think I've read in a book before. There could have been some exploration of intimacy without penetration but it was pretty much the usual mouth or hand business
The whole "we can't be together", "i can't trust you because my ex was a cheating jerk" thing dragged on for longer than I cared for. By 80% I was pretty much ready for the story to wrap up
I liked the fashion industry setting and The Devil Wears Prada-esque-ish story, but this one mostly missed the mark for me. Rounding up to three stars because despite my annoyances with details of the story it was mostly an alright read
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