Parker’s Price by Ann Bruce
Contemporary Romance
June 14, 2010
E-Book
Carina Press

Why I read: Author asked for review

Dean Maxwell wants to be anywhere but the charity auction he is attending, until he lays eyes on Parker Quinn, who happens to be running the event. Lust at first sight, he “rescues” her from a man that is giving her a hard time. Parker, who was quietly fighting with her ex, is thankful to Dean for the distraction. That is until she finds out his name. Dean Maxwell, wealthy business man and also the man her sister claims is the daughter of her niece. The man who refused to be a part of her niece’s life. Parker is very close with her mom and sister, at times supporting them both. The warm attraction Parker first gives off quickly turns to ice.

Dean notices the reversal of Parker’s attitude and is puzzled. He refuses to give up though. Parker is in charge of the charity auction and after all the models are through being auctioned off, to her surprise there is one last bidder – for her. Dean Maxwell offers $40,000 to go on a date with her. Parker finds there is no way to graciously decline, and grudgingly agrees to one date. Dean is an artist at seduction and is not going to let Parker go without a fight.

I have something shocking to say – I found Dean too alpha. I know, I know..I never thought I would say that.  I love a wealthy, stern, powerful man. But Dean just crossed that line a bit too far with me. He came across pushy, bossy, and demanding. Frustrated all the time when he doesn’t get his way. He was sexy – and I enjoyed his intense attraction, but then he would go overboard and he would lose his appeal.

Parker’s friend told her she is usually the one in charge, never letting men boss her around – but you never see that side of her here. She tries to fight back, but always ends up giving in to the more aggressive Dean. At one point after knowing Dean for only two days, he whisks her away to a private island. She doesn’t even know him yet lets him make all the decisions.  Plus he is the father of her sister’s kid. She is very close with her sister. Why would she have a fling with this man without first addressing this news that is so important to her? Also, when Dean denies he is the father, Parker automatically assumes her sister is the liar. I would think she would take a step back and settle for more of a gray area.


Parker’s Price has some hot scenes in it and I like the way Ann Bruce writes. I just didn’t like Dean. If he had been more toned down and Parker more secure I would have enjoyed this one better.


Rating: 2.5/5


Recent Reviews:
Everybody Needs a Little Romance – 4/5
Erotic Horizon