This is the second book in the “Big Shots” series. Though it is a stand-alone novel, reading the first book will give the readers the full picture. We see the first book’s main characters in this and it adds an extra layer of depth to the whole cast.

I am not usually a fan of insta love/lust or single parent romances and this was both of those things: and I ATE IT UP.

Tallulah is a 20-something year old grad student who gets hired by nearly 40 year old hockey star Burgess to be his daughter’s au pair.

Tallulah is bright and kind, but had a majorly bad experience with a man a few years back and is finally actively working on trying to LIVE instead of just survive. Burgess, aka Sir Savage, is BIG and scowly and brash— but only on the ice. He is easily the most considerate and loving man, but has been too focused on his career to maintain and strengthen his personal relationships.

Each come with their own baggage and the other is the most unlikely person to help them carry and overcome it. Which is why watching their relationship grow is so satisfying.

This was a character driven book through and through and I think that is why it was hard to really pinpoint a “plot” aside from the forbidden romance and the challenges that creates. Although somewhat predictable and bit disjointed in some areas, this book tackles serious themes such as trauma, insecurity, parenting, self love, and personal growth among other things.

Still, it was very Tessa Bailey in the sense that it was still a fun rom-com with very likable characters and a few spicy scenes.

My favorite part about this book was how open and vulnerable Tallulah and Burgess were to each other and in their inner dialogue. I lived for Burgess’s insecurity and pining and watching Tallulah’s walls come down!

Also another thing I didn’t mind was the third-act breakup. I think it was necessary for Tallulah to take that step on her own before they reconciled. Though I was a bit disappointed that the adventures she was supposed to go on were not a bigger part of the story.

If you’re already a fan of Tessa Bailey, this did not disappoint; though it is a bit darker than some of her other books recently so be sure to read any trigger warnings. If you’re not a fan of TB, this is a great series to get you on the bandwagon!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

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pagewanderer_'s reviews 300 reviews

pagewanderer_'s reviews
300 reviews