Book Review: Filthy Rich Temptation by Rachael Stewart*

 

'Theo

Making my first billion? Easy. Surviving Sadie — and her three-year-old — moving in? Pure torture. She’s my best friend’s little sister, the one girl I should never touch. Especially after that reckless kiss seven years ago...the kiss that ruined everything.

Now she’s here, under my roof, in every corner of my thoughts. Vulnerable. Off-limits. And so beautiful it hurts. I promised myself I’d protect her, keep my distance. But every laugh, every accidental touch, makes it harder to remember why I ever said no.

Sadie

I ran to Theo for safety, but the moment I walked through his door, I knew I wasn’t just in danger from my ex—I was in danger of falling again. He thinks he’s protecting me, keeping his distance. But every smouldering look says otherwise.

And every night, I wonder: what if I kissed him again? He thinks he’s just helping. But he doesn’t see how he’s rewiring my heart—how my daughter already adores him. I’m supposed to be surviving, not falling. But I know what I want…him. His hands. His mouth. His body. Even if it’s the one thing he swore I couldn’t have…'

If you’ve followed the Lemon Nail Fiend blog for a while, you’ll know that this author is one of my favourites—and not just because I’m on her ARC list and get early copies of her books (though I definitely appreciate that for obvious reasons!).

For transparency, I am an ARC reader for Rachael Stewart, but all thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Filthy Rich Temptation is the first book in Rachael Stewart’s brand new Filthy Rich Billionaires Trilogy. This opening instalment introduces us to billionaire number one, Theo Tanner, who—alongside his two best friends—has built immense success in his field before even turning 40.

Theo is our main male character, a man who thrives on order and structure. He works relentlessly, which is hardly surprising given his status. Enter Mercedes “Sadie” Stone and her adorable three-year-old daughter, Lottie—two people who couldn’t be more opposite. Their chaotic, unstructured lives clash immediately with Theo’s carefully controlled world, especially as they come to stay with him.

Sadie ends up there thanks to her sister Taylor, who calls in a favour from her best friend while Sadie is trying to escape a deeply unhealthy relationship. In truth, her ex was abusive, and Sadie is desperate for a fresh start and a safe space for herself and her daughter.

Beneath the surface, however, there’s unfinished history between Sadie and Theo—a moment from seven years ago that never truly faded. Both characters are harbouring lingering feelings from that time, along with new ones that have quietly developed. While the 12-year age gap that once kept Theo at a distance feels less significant now, it still lingers as a source of internal conflict.

Throughout the book, readers are drawn into the tension as Sadie and Theo attempt to ignore their growing attraction, leaving you wondering who will give in first. Adding to this is the underlying question of how Taylor—Sadie’s sister and Theo’s best friend—will react if boundaries are crossed.

And don’t worry—they do give in to their feelings, and it’s incredibly satisfying when they do. Their connection feels natural and well-earned, and both are clearly happy with the choice. However, looming in the background is Sadie’s past, as her ex is not ready to let her move on and find her happily ever after.

The main tropes in this book include forbidden romance, forced proximity, best friend’s little sister, and off-limits billionaire—delivered in a way that feels engaging and emotionally grounded. Although Sadie’s ex is abusive, this is not portrayed on page; however, please take care as the topic is referenced.

Overall, this was a great read and a strong start to the series. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where the rest of the trilogy goes.

You can get your copy HERE

 From my cozy corner to yours,

📚✨