ABOUT THE BOOK
From New York Times bestselling author Shanora Williams comes a deeply heartfelt romance about the tragedies that put our lives on hold–and the love that makes us want to start again.
Javier Valdez hasn’t had much luck with nannies, and he can’t imagine this one will be any different. Octavia Klein is all sass to his stoicism, free spirit to his hard work. But he’s a widower, and with a career in the NBA, he can’t keep doing this alone.
Despite Javier’s reservations, Octavia turns out to be the best thing for his four-year-old daughter…and for him. But he’s reluctant to admit it. Javier swore off love after his wife died, and Octavia has her own reasons for avoiding relationships.
As their bond deepens far past professionalism or even friendship, it’s hard to deny the crackling tension of something more. They’re both toeing lines they said they wouldn’t cross–and when their pasts come rushing back, there’s no telling which way they’ll fall.
With old wounds reopened, can Javier and Octavia overcome the pain once again? Or will their future together become just another scar?
MY REVIEW
I’m not a big fan of nanny/boss tropes, but because Octavia is mature and grounded, it worked for me this time.
Octavia Klein is a hard-headed and competent woman who is juggling her own baggage when she steps into the role of nanny for Javier’s adorable four-year-old daughter, Aleesa. Her sister had warned her that Javier was difficult to work for, but Octavia needed the money. Besides, she is very good with kids, and I admired her professionalism, even though, personally, I would have let loose on his grouchy ass.
Javier Valdez is an Argentinian NBA player, and he’s carrying the weight of a past filled with grief. He’s an unlikeable, uptight jerk in the beginning, but Octavia breaks through his walls with her honesty, patience, and love for his daughter, Aleesa. The chemistry between them grows in the most tender way. It’s a slow burn with a subtle hint of emotional vulnerability and growing affection.
Supporting characters include Octavia’s sister, Davina, and Javier’s friend, Deke, who know the challenges Octavia and Javier face while being there for moral support. Aleesa, Javier’s precocious little girl, is the light of Javier’s life, and she gives warmth and lightness to an emotional story.
This is my first book by Shanora Williams, and it’s compelling how she captures the rawness of human emotions. The story is about healing and second chances, and reminds us that love isn’t always neat and tidy, sneaking up on us when we least expect it in the chaos of life.
If you enjoy grumpy sunshine romances with a bit of angst, some laughter, and an emotional and rewarding outcome, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Williams for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
BUY THE BOOK
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/5W9H2
Audible: https://bit.ly/3Lz12n1
Narrated by Andre Santana & Aure Nash
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author known for her versatile voice, diverse characters, and high-stakes stories. Whether grounded in reality, set in a world of magic, or immersed in suspense, her books explore connection, chaos, and emotions that linger long after the last page.
As a self-proclaimed “mood writer”, Shanora has never believed in boxing herself in. Her desire has always been to take risks and challenge herself. If a plot is relentlessly on her mind, she will try her hand at it.
When she isn’t writing, she’s deep in family life, binge-watching shows and movies, working out, gaming, or getting cozy with a book. She lives near Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband and three sons.
BLOG TOUR ORGANIZED BY:
