When Ella is stuck on an elevator with a handsome stranger, the last thing she wants is a Prince Charming. But that’s exactly who Adrian turned out to be. Adrian had been painted by the press as a rich playboy but Ella had no idea who he was. It was the perfect opportunity for him to adopt a new identity.
Can’t Buy Me Love by Andrea Christenson and Susan May Warren is the latest book in the Deep Haven collection and chronicles the romance of Deep Haven newcomer Ella and Adrian.
My Review of Can’t Buy Me Love
Adrian and Ella’s story is a modern-day Cinderella retelling but the misunderstandings almost crippled their romance before it could get off the ground.
The Characters in Can’t Buy Me Love
I loved Ella. She was a dreamer who wasn’t afraid of hard work. But I have to admit I got a little mad at her near the end because she kept believing and trusting the wrong people.
Her past experiences had created some interesting beliefs about herself, God, and others. She had to learn that God loved her and would provide people and resources to help her.
Adrian was a great Prince Charming to Ella’s Cinderella. He had made some mistakes in his past but he was learning to get over it. Like Adrian and Ella, our past can trap us in a cycle that’s not easily escaped. Adrian had to learn that his past doesn’t define him.
I loved Adrian and Ella’s relationship. They started with a strong friendship but there were hints of a fairytale romance as well. I liked that Ella made Adrian want to be a better man and because of her he was.
Many of the secondary characters in the novel were warm and hospitable. They reminded the reader that Deep Haven was a place you could call home. There were a few heels like Mr. Hansen, but the people were, for the most part, friendly and accommodating.
These secondary characters created the perfect community for two people who needed to remember that not everyone pursued a relationship with someone for what they could get out of it. Some people genuinely cared about others and were willing to offer assistance when it was needed.
The Themes in Can’t Buy Me Love
Throughout Can’t Buy Me Love, the theme that God loves us was prevalent. We didn’t have to do anything for Him to love us, all we have to do is accept His love. Both Adrian and Ella had to internalize that message.
There was also a theme that God remains faithful. People will disappoint us and let us down but God never will. He’s always there, keeping His promises even when we break ours to Him.
Final Thoughts on Can’t Buy Me Love
Can’t Buy Me Love is book two in the Deep Haven collection but can be read as a standalone. There is a thread that weaves throughout the two books and you’ll recognize some characters if you read the first book (or any of the Deep Haven series), but it will not detract from your enjoyment of Can’t Buy Me Love.
Can’t Buy Me Love is an entertaining read if you love fairytale retellings and happily-ever-afters.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from the publishers through Just Read Tours; a positive review was not required. Purchase Can’t Buy Me Love on Amazon | Barnes & Noble
About Can’t Buy Me Love
She’s not looking for love…
Housekeeper-slash-entrepreneur Ella Bradley prides herself on being ready for anything. After all, with a father who died—and lied to her—and a stepmom and stepsister who despise her, she has no one else to depend on. But on the biggest night of her life, she’s unprepared to be trapped in an elevator with the man of her dreams.
He doesn’t mean to lie…
Wealthy prince-to-a-fortune Adrian Vassos wants nothing more than to shed his reputation as a party boy and prove that he is a savvy businessman. Even, a gentleman. But when he’s trapped with a woman who knows his reputation but not his face, he gives into the temptation to be someone else—and lies.
A disastrous beginning leads to a fresh start…
When serendipity brings them together again—this time to work off community service—can their combined sentences spark a new ending? Maybe…if Adrian’s lies don’t find him out. Again.
The magic of Deep Haven enchants in this modern-day Cinderella story.
About the Authors:
Susan May Warren
Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling novelist of 80 books. With more than 1.5 million books in print, she is beloved by reviewers and readers around the world.
Visit Susan at www.susanmaywarren.com.
Andrea Christenson
Andrea Christenson lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two daughters. When she is not busy homeschooling her girls, she loves to read anything she can get her hands on, bake bread, eat cheese, and watch Netflix. Andrea’s prayer is to write stories revealing God’s love.
Visit Andrea at www.andreachristenson.com.
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