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A review by booksbystephanie
The Au Pair Affair by Tessa Bailey

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The Au Pair Affair, a novel by Tessa Bailey, available July 16, 2024! 
 
We got sprouts of the blooming attraction of hockey defenseman Burgess “Sir Savage” Abraham and biology grad student Tallulah in Fangirl Down, and this follow-up did not disappoint. Burgess asks Tallulah to work for him as his daughter Lissa’s au pair to help give her a place to live and some income while attending Boston University. But Tallulah has her reservations based on a traumatic experience, not only physically but emotionally. She’s grappling with learning to trust on so many levels, and Burgess is intent on breaking them down, but with complete and utter cinnamon roll ooey-gooey goodness. He’s also unsure of his future in hockey and what his purpose is in life outside of being a father who is a bit out of touch. Tallulah is like magic for this relationship and helps him be a better person on and off the ice. Also, he says that she makes him feel “immortal,” and I about lost my damn mind. 
 
These MCs were down bad for each other the whole book. The pining and banter was phenomenal, and the spice and dirty talk is what one would expect from the master herself, Tessa Bailey. Plus, you know they will *ahem* in public – I always can’t wait for that scene! I was pulled into this book from the beginning. The will-they-won’t-they had me rooting for them the whole book. I laughed out loud several times… “I only need one hand to drive this car,” and calling Burgess with his shirt off a “flesh fest,” not to mention the utter gut-wrenching third act. This is one not to miss! (P.S. bonus points for being set in Boston ❤️) 
 
Also, we know TB has the Big Shots series planned for at least three more books, including Sig and Chloe. I cannot wait to learn more about this forbidden stepsibling hockey player meets harpist prodigy obsessed with skin care. Waiting until February is going to be torture! 
 
Thank you so much to Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced (e-)reader copy and a chance to rate and review this book! 
 
4.5 ⭐️ 2 🌶
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