This book went a completely different direction than I thought it was going to, and I am happy that it did.
While the story starts with popstar Nora wanting to break out from the younger persona that made her famous (think Miley Cyrus without the craziness). After a twist in her life that causes a mini-meltdown (think Britney Spears with an umbrella but for a legit reason), she heads home to her brother Nick’s house to get her head together. Grayson is a single dad raising three young children, who also happens to be Nick’s best friend. Nora and Grayson meet casual, and the story takes off from there.
I want to focus on Grayson because so many romance novels these days have unapproachable or unrealistic heroes. Don’t get me wrong; a moody billionaire has his place in the romance world. But I found it very refreshing that the hero was a single dad trying to do right by his kids, especially considering that the six-year-old was dealing with some difficult issues.
The kids made a lot of this story for me. Emma especially wins a cuteness award (loved the thought that went into the accuracy of her pronunciation). It was always clear that the kids were the primary concern, in spite of the growing attraction between Nora and Grayson.
I did think that the whole backstory to the kid’s mom was a little bit much and in some ways didn’t seem to fit, but I do understand how the author had to make clear just how awful she was. I also felt that a few of Grayson’s reactions were over-the-top. I got that he was concerned for his family, but where he placed the blame seemed misguided.
I loved the resolution though; it’s been a while since I have read such a sweet ending. I’m not one to use a lot of slang, but it gave me all of the feels! If you’re looking for a cute romance with a little heat and some adorable kids, you should grab this book.
Oh, and a special shout out to the “Thin Man” reference. Loved that the brother and sister were Nick and Nora!
