11.14.2025 | Friday

The Rebel

category: Book Reviews

tag(s): adult

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book notes

title: The Rebel
author: Layla Hagen
series: The Leblanc Brothers #5
published: 10.3.2025
publisher: self-published
genre(s): romance
pages: 256
format: manuscript
buy/shelve it: Amazon | BookBub | Goodreads
rating:

| series rating:

the blurb

In New Orleans, I'm known as the fun and laid-back LeBlanc brother. The Rebel CEO.I’m successful and determined, but I don't play by the rules. Heck, I don't even have rules except one. I never ever get involved with my assistants. After a very bad experience years ago, I know better than to mix business and pleasure.I've had no problems sticking to my rule until I hired Daisy. When I first meet her, I have no idea she’s my new temp assistant. I just set eyes on this gorgeous woman at my favorite coffee shop, and do what I do flirt with her like there's no tomorrow.When I realize my mistake, I change the tune. I'm cold and distant but my plan is not working. Not one bit.Whenever she steps into my office, all I think about is bending her over my desk.When she gives me sass, all I want is to cover her mouth with mine until she begs for more.Daisy is fun and unlike anyone I've met, and I gravitate toward her whether I want it or not.When she suddenly gets a call from home that her family needs help, I immediately take over.All lines blur, but one thing I know for sure, I won't let Daisy go. I just have to convince her that I'm the one.And I'm very convincing when I want to.

a few notes

POV: 1st person; dual
setting: New Orleans, Louisiana
keywords/phrases: family, trust
tropes: happy ending, forced proximity, workplace, boss-subordinate
spice: 5/5🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
language: 2/5🤬🤬

mood reading: in the mood for steamy romance with well-rounded characters and a lovely family dynamic.

my review

The Rebel is the fifth book surrounding the LeBlanc brothers, this one Anthony’s story. I love the dual perspectives the author uses for her stories. It really allows the reader to get to know both Anthony and Daisy. The chemistry between them is instant, and having the dual viewpoints really adds to the struggle they both feel with the awkwardness of their boss-employee dynamic. The author always creates characters that are well rounded, even if imperfect, with their own stories that are always deep and emotional. And as the Queen of the Family Saga, Hagen has created an enviable family dynamic in the LeBlancs that I always love to dive back into!