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One Small Problem
Doctor Magnus Small doesn’t want to add anyone else to his life. He’s reached his limit for heartache. He lost his parents ten years ago, which left him in charge of raising his six brothers and one sister. When he meets his little sister’s best friend, their instant attraction triggers his caregiver instincts once again. He never allowed himself to dream about having a family of his own, even if he secretly always wanted one.
Johanna Mendel’s past has her guarding her heart and young daughter fiercely. She works full-time while going to school, hoping to better herself and their situation. She’s torn between finding a positive male influence for her growing daughter and swearing off all men to focus on her career that will provide for her tiny family.
These two will have to face their misgivings and learn from their life experiences to help one another through the pain that lies ahead.
*Doc is the first book in the Seven Brother Series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but reappearing characters may cause spoilers.
**Please note domestic abuse by a secondary character and gun violence may be triggering for some readers.
Johanna Mendel’s past has her guarding her heart and young daughter fiercely. She works full-time while going to school, hoping to better herself and their situation. She’s torn between finding a positive male influence for her growing daughter and swearing off all men to focus on her career that will provide for her tiny family.
These two will have to face their misgivings and learn from their life experiences to help one another through the pain that lies ahead.
*Doc is the first book in the Seven Brother Series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but reappearing characters may cause spoilers.
**Please note domestic abuse by a secondary character and gun violence may be triggering for some readers.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2023
1 person is currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Shelly Monarch
4 books15 followersShelly Monarch is a former teacher turned book addict. Now, she and her family go wherever her husband’s high-speed career takes them. From the Pacific Northwest to the warm coasts of the Gulf, she is never quite sure where she will be when she pens her next great story.
Her hubby, two crazy young kids, and two unpredictable old rescue dogs keep her busy most days, but when she can, she loves a good outdoor adventure. Lazy mountain hikes and glorious days at the beach refresh the soul! Shelly devours books like all good little bookworms do, especially those with even a hint of romance.
Shelly’s varied tastes in literature fuel her writing. She loves finding new authors to stalk and stories to enjoy. She has big plans for future novels in different genres such as twisted fairy tales, romantic comedy, paranormal fantasy, and science fiction.
Stay tuned for more alpha males and the strong females who save them from themselves. Happy reading!
Her hubby, two crazy young kids, and two unpredictable old rescue dogs keep her busy most days, but when she can, she loves a good outdoor adventure. Lazy mountain hikes and glorious days at the beach refresh the soul! Shelly devours books like all good little bookworms do, especially those with even a hint of romance.
Shelly’s varied tastes in literature fuel her writing. She loves finding new authors to stalk and stories to enjoy. She has big plans for future novels in different genres such as twisted fairy tales, romantic comedy, paranormal fantasy, and science fiction.
Stay tuned for more alpha males and the strong females who save them from themselves. Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
March 7, 2023
First of all,
thank you so much to the author for giving me a free ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review!
In general, I did really like this book. It started great and ended even better! Magnus and Johanna were such a great match and had a great harmony!
Also I did enjoy that they were both kind of working in the hospital together, but still had a relationship outside of work and got to know each other in a different context! The characters and their relationships with friends and family were really well written, as they had a good depth to them!
Furthermore, I loved reading especially Magnus’ character development. You can really see him change in a realistic way, which makes it really believable. He changed to the better in a way, where he was able to have a better relationship with his siblings, who he had always cared for. He became more trusting (in a positive way) and let them breath freely. I also got the feeling that the author “grew” with her characters on the way. Overall really nice to read!
Also, I loved that the book had way more depth besides the romance plot! It mentioned different topics (check the trigger warning!), which I found really well written and interesting.
And lastly, Adel (Johanna’s daughter) is such a cute character and little girl!
I didn’t give this book 5 stars, because it was not as convincing in the beginning than towards the end and because at some points I didn’t like Magnus’ doubts about their age gap!
All in all, this book was really good to read and definitely recommendable!!!
thank you so much to the author for giving me a free ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review!
In general, I did really like this book. It started great and ended even better! Magnus and Johanna were such a great match and had a great harmony!
Also I did enjoy that they were both kind of working in the hospital together, but still had a relationship outside of work and got to know each other in a different context! The characters and their relationships with friends and family were really well written, as they had a good depth to them!
Furthermore, I loved reading especially Magnus’ character development. You can really see him change in a realistic way, which makes it really believable. He changed to the better in a way, where he was able to have a better relationship with his siblings, who he had always cared for. He became more trusting (in a positive way) and let them breath freely. I also got the feeling that the author “grew” with her characters on the way. Overall really nice to read!
Also, I loved that the book had way more depth besides the romance plot! It mentioned different topics (check the trigger warning!), which I found really well written and interesting.
And lastly, Adel (Johanna’s daughter) is such a cute character and little girl!
I didn’t give this book 5 stars, because it was not as convincing in the beginning than towards the end and because at some points I didn’t like Magnus’ doubts about their age gap!
All in all, this book was really good to read and definitely recommendable!!!
February 27, 2023
I think the one in the title refers to the first Small brother, and his problem is being too used to single life, which quickly changes, and how! The cover is clean and beautiful. The blurb is good. I like its accompanying playlist. I'd recommend reading the prequel before this book so as to have more context and to enjoy this story more.
While the tale of the large family continues, this story focuses on Magnus and Johanna. I wouldn't have guessed Magnus was a doctor from the prequel. He's a likeable and relatable character. I'm more familiar with him from the prequel. Johanna, her daughter, and her family are newer characters, so I hope to get more comfortable with them as the series progresses. I appreciated their single selves very much. They're both mature, independent, thriving, well-functioning adults, and that's admirable. I also think there are a lot more single moms out there than single dads, and that's something to think about. I think an important factor that'll help them bond better is that they're in the same sector and can help each other when needed. A doctor and a nurse are a very apt pairing. I'm very happy with this book! Adelais' character was written well.
I cried a lot when I read chapter thirty-two. I pray this scenario never replicates itself in reality. I don't think much of trigger warnings when a book is written exceptionally well and covers a range of topics. But if you're uncomfortable reading about certain situations, do check the warnings in the book and on the author's website. I think it's clever that such a large family has the surname "Small." I enjoyed the appearances of the other family members in this book. I'm curious which brother the next book will be about!
This is a later-in-life, age-gap, workplace romance. Toward the end, it becomes just as much of a thriller. This is a book worth rereading. The pace is so good that it's addictive. You might want to hold off on those chores until you finish reading this! The writing somehow makes the plot much more interesting than the prequel, even if this plot is more mundane than the prequel's. The interesting subplots move the narrative forward. I'd have liked to read more raw conversations between the leads instead of them getting together quickly, but that's not a major complaint.
Overall, it was very nice. The writing was stunning. I highly recommend it.
I obtained an e-ARC from the author in exchange of an honest review.
While the tale of the large family continues, this story focuses on Magnus and Johanna. I wouldn't have guessed Magnus was a doctor from the prequel. He's a likeable and relatable character. I'm more familiar with him from the prequel. Johanna, her daughter, and her family are newer characters, so I hope to get more comfortable with them as the series progresses. I appreciated their single selves very much. They're both mature, independent, thriving, well-functioning adults, and that's admirable. I also think there are a lot more single moms out there than single dads, and that's something to think about. I think an important factor that'll help them bond better is that they're in the same sector and can help each other when needed. A doctor and a nurse are a very apt pairing. I'm very happy with this book! Adelais' character was written well.
I cried a lot when I read chapter thirty-two. I pray this scenario never replicates itself in reality. I don't think much of trigger warnings when a book is written exceptionally well and covers a range of topics. But if you're uncomfortable reading about certain situations, do check the warnings in the book and on the author's website. I think it's clever that such a large family has the surname "Small." I enjoyed the appearances of the other family members in this book. I'm curious which brother the next book will be about!
This is a later-in-life, age-gap, workplace romance. Toward the end, it becomes just as much of a thriller. This is a book worth rereading. The pace is so good that it's addictive. You might want to hold off on those chores until you finish reading this! The writing somehow makes the plot much more interesting than the prequel, even if this plot is more mundane than the prequel's. The interesting subplots move the narrative forward. I'd have liked to read more raw conversations between the leads instead of them getting together quickly, but that's not a major complaint.
Overall, it was very nice. The writing was stunning. I highly recommend it.
I obtained an e-ARC from the author in exchange of an honest review.
March 2, 2023
“One Small Problem” is the 1st book of the Seven Brothers Series, following the eldest brother Magnus, a doctor, and Johanna, a nurse. This book has some triggering parts so be sure to check the trigger warning first before reading!
Giving this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 stars for the following:
- I love the title! It’s so creative (you’ll know why when you meet the characters)
- I am so interested in knowing not only Magnus and Johanna, but also the other siblings.
- The conflict between Johanna and her ex, while heartbreaking and tragic, is realistically written for me.
- I appreciate the reading playlist for this book!
- “Love is a risk, but it is well worth it with the right person.”
- Johanna’s independence 👑 yes girl, SLAY
- As the oldest siblings, Magnus and I share the same sentiments about our families.
- Character development: they both learned from one another and that was nice.
- I love the cover! 💙
I’m not rating this book a 5 ⭐️ read for the following:
- Magnus and Johanna are both stubborn people in their own ways and it was painful for me to read.
- Some parts of the main characters’ monologue can be so repetitive.
- I was looking on reading where Adelais wasn’t a perfect child but all they do is to gush over how perfect she is, it wasn’t realistic for me. I generally like reading children in romance books but Adel here was projected with such perfection or adoration many times and I didn’t appreciate that for her character.
- Magnus can be so annoying, especially when he thinks Johanna can’t do things on her own. I just dislike male characters like that in books.
- I didn’t expect the violence in this book. Honestly, I wasn’t ready for that (I thought I am!) but the way that chapter was written… I guess that worked for that certain character.
Overall, this is a good read and I’m looking forward to reading the stories of the rest of the siblings! ✨
Thank you to the author for my ARC and congratulations for your new book! Don’t forget to check out her book on Amazon (it’s under KU!).
Giving this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 stars for the following:
- I love the title! It’s so creative (you’ll know why when you meet the characters)
- I am so interested in knowing not only Magnus and Johanna, but also the other siblings.
- The conflict between Johanna and her ex, while heartbreaking and tragic, is realistically written for me.
- I appreciate the reading playlist for this book!
- “Love is a risk, but it is well worth it with the right person.”
- Johanna’s independence 👑 yes girl, SLAY
- As the oldest siblings, Magnus and I share the same sentiments about our families.
- Character development: they both learned from one another and that was nice.
- I love the cover! 💙
I’m not rating this book a 5 ⭐️ read for the following:
- Magnus and Johanna are both stubborn people in their own ways and it was painful for me to read.
- Some parts of the main characters’ monologue can be so repetitive.
- I was looking on reading where Adelais wasn’t a perfect child but all they do is to gush over how perfect she is, it wasn’t realistic for me. I generally like reading children in romance books but Adel here was projected with such perfection or adoration many times and I didn’t appreciate that for her character.
- Magnus can be so annoying, especially when he thinks Johanna can’t do things on her own. I just dislike male characters like that in books.
- I didn’t expect the violence in this book. Honestly, I wasn’t ready for that (I thought I am!) but the way that chapter was written… I guess that worked for that certain character.
Overall, this is a good read and I’m looking forward to reading the stories of the rest of the siblings! ✨
Thank you to the author for my ARC and congratulations for your new book! Don’t forget to check out her book on Amazon (it’s under KU!).
March 4, 2023
Out now, One small problem is book one in the 7 brothers series.
Big thank you firstly for my ebook copy of this gorgeous book. I absolutely love this cover design!
I'd totally loved The heart of winter (a prequel novella to this series with contemporary Snow White #fairytalevibes ) by this author so was really excited to be offered a copy of this book to read.
BRIEF SYNOPSIS -
Doctor Magnus Small is the oldest of Winters 7 brothers. Having raised his siblings hes always been the carer, the one who puts everyone's needs ahead of his own.
Johanna is Winters best friend. A single mum with a troubled past who's main focus is her daughter.
When the two meet emotions they'd both given up on stir. Can they get their HEA?
MY THOUGHTS -
I was really looking forward to seeing each of Winters 7 brothers get their own stories, and pleased that Magnus story was first.
This is a slow burn romance, with two great characters, both Mag and Jo are endearing and you just NEED them to get together.
Think grumpy / sunshine vibes with an exciting unexpected plot twist towards the end and several OMG moments along the way.
I loved seeing Jo's online dating escapades, and her daughter is just gorgeous and will melt your heart. Magnus definitely conjures up sexy doctor vibes.
I'm loving the family dynamics in this series so far. The close knit ties of the siblings and backstory hints of each brother.
Definitely worth a read if you like a good, clean (hate that description but you know what I mean) will they, won't they cosy snuggles romance.
Now sat patiently anticipating which brother gets the next story (hoping its Killian)
Do read The Heart of Winter novella first. Though each of these books can be read as a stand alone, the back story and characters overlap makes it better if you do.
Big thank you firstly for my ebook copy of this gorgeous book. I absolutely love this cover design!
I'd totally loved The heart of winter (a prequel novella to this series with contemporary Snow White #fairytalevibes ) by this author so was really excited to be offered a copy of this book to read.
BRIEF SYNOPSIS -
Doctor Magnus Small is the oldest of Winters 7 brothers. Having raised his siblings hes always been the carer, the one who puts everyone's needs ahead of his own.
Johanna is Winters best friend. A single mum with a troubled past who's main focus is her daughter.
When the two meet emotions they'd both given up on stir. Can they get their HEA?
MY THOUGHTS -
I was really looking forward to seeing each of Winters 7 brothers get their own stories, and pleased that Magnus story was first.
This is a slow burn romance, with two great characters, both Mag and Jo are endearing and you just NEED them to get together.
Think grumpy / sunshine vibes with an exciting unexpected plot twist towards the end and several OMG moments along the way.
I loved seeing Jo's online dating escapades, and her daughter is just gorgeous and will melt your heart. Magnus definitely conjures up sexy doctor vibes.
I'm loving the family dynamics in this series so far. The close knit ties of the siblings and backstory hints of each brother.
Definitely worth a read if you like a good, clean (hate that description but you know what I mean) will they, won't they cosy snuggles romance.
Now sat patiently anticipating which brother gets the next story (hoping its Killian)
Do read The Heart of Winter novella first. Though each of these books can be read as a stand alone, the back story and characters overlap makes it better if you do.
February 28, 2023
Please note that there are a few aspects of the contents of this book that could be sensitive to some readers. Please check trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you to Shelly Monarch for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was an adorable romance based in a hospital between a nurse and her best friends brother who happens to be her new boss in the department she just moved to.
When we meet Johanna, she’s single mother struggling through nursing school, trying to make ends meet.
Magnus is the eldest of 7 brothers and 1 sister, who‘s married to his job and spends his time ignoring all possibilities of a personal life while looking after his siblings who he’s taken under his wing since their parents passed away.
While working with together, for the first time in many years, both Magnus and Johanna find themselves wanting to be able to open up to someone.
I adored both the main and side characters. Their family dynamic and the way they support each other.
This was a wholesome, comforting read that was beautifully written and I so easily got lost in and wholly adored.
Thank you to Shelly Monarch for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was an adorable romance based in a hospital between a nurse and her best friends brother who happens to be her new boss in the department she just moved to.
When we meet Johanna, she’s single mother struggling through nursing school, trying to make ends meet.
Magnus is the eldest of 7 brothers and 1 sister, who‘s married to his job and spends his time ignoring all possibilities of a personal life while looking after his siblings who he’s taken under his wing since their parents passed away.
While working with together, for the first time in many years, both Magnus and Johanna find themselves wanting to be able to open up to someone.
I adored both the main and side characters. Their family dynamic and the way they support each other.
This was a wholesome, comforting read that was beautifully written and I so easily got lost in and wholly adored.
February 28, 2023
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!**
I had the chance to read One Small problem recently. I loved this medical romance book! And that first chapter really grabbed me as a reader. I was pleasantly surprised at that but in a good way. I loved the story between Magnus and Johanna. It was such a sweet story and also I loved the conflict of the ex date and 'father' of Adel conflict also. And I always love a happy ending too. It was a great read and I highly recommend to any romance reader!
I had the chance to read One Small problem recently. I loved this medical romance book! And that first chapter really grabbed me as a reader. I was pleasantly surprised at that but in a good way. I loved the story between Magnus and Johanna. It was such a sweet story and also I loved the conflict of the ex date and 'father' of Adel conflict also. And I always love a happy ending too. It was a great read and I highly recommend to any romance reader!
March 27, 2023
i love it!!! i love how Magnus' and Johanna's relationship blossomed from mere acquaintances to friends to lovers... ❤️❤️❤️
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews