What do you think?
Rate this book
LA Hearts
The Coldest Passion
He’s everything cold.
She’s my darkest obsession.
Liz
I never thought I’d fall in love with Parker, my brother’s best friend.
He’s a damaged man and now I’m his daughter’s nanny for the summer.
He’s grumpy and hates me but I have no idea why.
I've always wanted a happily-ever-after with my fairytale prince,
And fairytale prince he is not.
But with every inadvertent brush of our bodies and intense stares, I wonder what it would be like to have Parker’s hands on me.
I wonder if this tortured, imperfect man is actually the prince in my story.
Parker
I lost everything when my wife died.
I’m angry with the world, but mostly at myself.
All I have is my work and my daughter.
And a nanny, who is also my best friend’s sister.
Liz is full of light and joy—everything I’m not, everything I don’t deserve.
I know I shouldn’t touch her. I have blood on my hands.
Seeing her every single day, the temptation keeps getting stronger, but I’m keeping a secret she would never forgive me for.
If she ever finds out, I’ll lose her forever.
Tropes for The Coldest Passion:
- Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
- Single dad and nanny
- Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Virgin heroine
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
She’s my darkest obsession.
Liz
I never thought I’d fall in love with Parker, my brother’s best friend.
He’s a damaged man and now I’m his daughter’s nanny for the summer.
He’s grumpy and hates me but I have no idea why.
I've always wanted a happily-ever-after with my fairytale prince,
And fairytale prince he is not.
But with every inadvertent brush of our bodies and intense stares, I wonder what it would be like to have Parker’s hands on me.
I wonder if this tortured, imperfect man is actually the prince in my story.
Parker
I lost everything when my wife died.
I’m angry with the world, but mostly at myself.
All I have is my work and my daughter.
And a nanny, who is also my best friend’s sister.
Liz is full of light and joy—everything I’m not, everything I don’t deserve.
I know I shouldn’t touch her. I have blood on my hands.
Seeing her every single day, the temptation keeps getting stronger, but I’m keeping a secret she would never forgive me for.
If she ever finds out, I’ll lose her forever.
Tropes for The Coldest Passion:
- Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
- Single dad and nanny
- Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Virgin heroine
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2023
123 people are currently reading
3125 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Lum
11 books342 followersVictoria is a lover of all things romance, including movies, books, and television shows. A hopeless romantic since childhood, she is always dreaming up stories and happily ever afters. Caramel lattes are her fuel in the morning and she can usually be found reading anything she can get her hands on. She lives with her family and a beautiful Siberian husky in sunny California.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
June 28, 2023
⭐ 4,5
I have mixed feelings about this book because I liked it and I liked it a lot and I tell you that I loved Parker, like the man is grumpy but only with her and at the same time he has a soft side only for her if you know what I mean buuuuuut also some actions he made me doubt.
The relationship of these two started strong, they "hated" each other or well, he didn't like her from the beginning (we saw it from the first meeting they had in the first book); she is Lucy's (his daughter's) kindergarten teacher, in addition to having the same circle of friends, they have to see each other and the tension between the two is there, but come on, they don't do anything until she agrees to be her daughter's babysitter for the summer and this is where all the good things start.
This book exceeded my expectations, the relationship of the two, how Parker is with Lucy and how Liz is with Lucy, I loved it, the steamy scenes are on point but what takes the icing on the cake is the huge plot twist that this book has, I did not see it coming at any point and it left me in shock, I did not see a huge drama in it, more than a small moment of lack of communication but come on, it is half justified.
You should give this book a chance because I know you won't regret it, just like you should read the first book in this series because if I know one thing, it's that Victoria writes stories that grab you and stay with you 🫶🏻
Thanks to Victoria Lum & Greys Promo for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 📚 !!
_________________________
Tengo sentimientos encontrados con este libro porque me gusto y me gusto mucho y les digo que Parker me encanto, like el hombre es gruñón pero solo con ella y a la vez tiene un lado suave con ella, if you know what i mean peeeeero también algunas acciones de el me dejaron dudando.
La relación de estos dos empezó fuerte, se “odiaban” o bueno, a él no le gustaba ella desde el principio (Lo vimos desde el primer encuentro que tuvieron estos dos en el primer libro); ella siendo la maestra del jardín de infantes de Lucy (su hija) además de tener el mismo círculos de amigos se tienen que ver y la tensión entre los dos está allí, pero vamos que no hacen nada hasta que ella aceptar ser la niñera de su hija por el verano y aquí es donde empieza todo lo bueno.
Este libro superó mis expectativas, la relación de los dos, como es Parker con Lucy y como es Liz con Lucy me encanto, las escenas spicy en su punto pero lo que se lleva la guinda del pastel es el tremendo plot twist que tiene este libro, yo no lo vi venir en ningún momento y me dejó en shock, no le vi gran drama más que un pequeño momento de descomunicación pero vamos que es medio justificado.
Deben de darle la oportunidad a este libro porque se que no se arrepentirán, así como deben de leer el primer libro de esta serie porque si algo se es que Victoria escribe historias que te atrapan y se quedarán contigo.
I have mixed feelings about this book because I liked it and I liked it a lot and I tell you that I loved Parker, like the man is grumpy but only with her and at the same time he has a soft side only for her if you know what I mean buuuuuut also some actions he made me doubt.
The relationship of these two started strong, they "hated" each other or well, he didn't like her from the beginning (we saw it from the first meeting they had in the first book); she is Lucy's (his daughter's) kindergarten teacher, in addition to having the same circle of friends, they have to see each other and the tension between the two is there, but come on, they don't do anything until she agrees to be her daughter's babysitter for the summer and this is where all the good things start.
This book exceeded my expectations, the relationship of the two, how Parker is with Lucy and how Liz is with Lucy, I loved it, the steamy scenes are on point but what takes the icing on the cake is the huge plot twist that this book has, I did not see it coming at any point and it left me in shock, I did not see a huge drama in it, more than a small moment of lack of communication but come on, it is half justified.
You should give this book a chance because I know you won't regret it, just like you should read the first book in this series because if I know one thing, it's that Victoria writes stories that grab you and stay with you 🫶🏻
Thanks to Victoria Lum & Greys Promo for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 📚 !!
_________________________
Tengo sentimientos encontrados con este libro porque me gusto y me gusto mucho y les digo que Parker me encanto, like el hombre es gruñón pero solo con ella y a la vez tiene un lado suave con ella, if you know what i mean peeeeero también algunas acciones de el me dejaron dudando.
La relación de estos dos empezó fuerte, se “odiaban” o bueno, a él no le gustaba ella desde el principio (Lo vimos desde el primer encuentro que tuvieron estos dos en el primer libro); ella siendo la maestra del jardín de infantes de Lucy (su hija) además de tener el mismo círculos de amigos se tienen que ver y la tensión entre los dos está allí, pero vamos que no hacen nada hasta que ella aceptar ser la niñera de su hija por el verano y aquí es donde empieza todo lo bueno.
Este libro superó mis expectativas, la relación de los dos, como es Parker con Lucy y como es Liz con Lucy me encanto, las escenas spicy en su punto pero lo que se lleva la guinda del pastel es el tremendo plot twist que tiene este libro, yo no lo vi venir en ningún momento y me dejó en shock, no le vi gran drama más que un pequeño momento de descomunicación pero vamos que es medio justificado.
Deben de darle la oportunidad a este libro porque se que no se arrepentirán, así como deben de leer el primer libro de esta serie porque si algo se es que Victoria escribe historias que te atrapan y se quedarán contigo.
June 14, 2023
From the first time Parker and Liz met, you could tell that there was tension, especially coming from Parker's end. But we never knew why. Until now.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Spice level : 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔💔💔
Tropes to look for in this book:
Best friends sister ✔️
Enemies to lovers ✔️
Single dad/nanny ✔️
Tortured, broody hero ✔️
Virgin heroine ✔️
Dual POV ✔️
Disasterous secrets ✔️
Liz and Parker have always been clearly attracted to each other. And when Parker's nanny quits out of the blue, he is left to find a new one. When their friends suggest that Liz babysit his daughter Lucy, Parker wants nothing to do with it. He can't stand to be in the same place as Liz as in, how will he do if/when she moves in to take care of his daughter. Reluctantly with no other options, he asks Liz to be his new nanny and she does move in. What could possibly happen?
The push and pull between these two was so strong - mostly on Parker's end. He is clearly fighting a strong attraction to Liz, but doesn't want to get involved. But the pull only got so strong until the his resistance broke and they get together. And it is hot and spicy and everything you wanted for these two all along! But Parker is still holding secrets; and not the good kind. The kind that are destined to pull these two apart. So what will happen when everything is revealed?
The author does a great job of delving into Parker's trauma from losing his wife and everything that has stemmed from those traumatic events. From the time we meet him, we know that he has demons that he holds close and don't let anyone in. It was great how she showed him opening up to Liz piece by piece, his therapist, and then finally his friends. It allowed him to heal and be better not just for himself, but for Lucy and his family and friends.
Just like Jess and James's book, you get to see all of the friend group (plus a newcomer named Melanie). And I loved all of those parts where they were all together! You can just see how much love that all of these characters have for each other.
We get a glimpse into the next book and who Emily's hero is going to be and I AM HERE FOR IT. I cannot wait to see her and this character (don't want to spoil it) come together. I can feel the angst from here.
"You're my end all, be all. You're my fairytale."
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Spice level : 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔💔💔
Tropes to look for in this book:
Best friends sister ✔️
Enemies to lovers ✔️
Single dad/nanny ✔️
Tortured, broody hero ✔️
Virgin heroine ✔️
Dual POV ✔️
Disasterous secrets ✔️
Liz and Parker have always been clearly attracted to each other. And when Parker's nanny quits out of the blue, he is left to find a new one. When their friends suggest that Liz babysit his daughter Lucy, Parker wants nothing to do with it. He can't stand to be in the same place as Liz as in, how will he do if/when she moves in to take care of his daughter. Reluctantly with no other options, he asks Liz to be his new nanny and she does move in. What could possibly happen?
The push and pull between these two was so strong - mostly on Parker's end. He is clearly fighting a strong attraction to Liz, but doesn't want to get involved. But the pull only got so strong until the his resistance broke and they get together. And it is hot and spicy and everything you wanted for these two all along! But Parker is still holding secrets; and not the good kind. The kind that are destined to pull these two apart. So what will happen when everything is revealed?
The author does a great job of delving into Parker's trauma from losing his wife and everything that has stemmed from those traumatic events. From the time we meet him, we know that he has demons that he holds close and don't let anyone in. It was great how she showed him opening up to Liz piece by piece, his therapist, and then finally his friends. It allowed him to heal and be better not just for himself, but for Lucy and his family and friends.
Just like Jess and James's book, you get to see all of the friend group (plus a newcomer named Melanie). And I loved all of those parts where they were all together! You can just see how much love that all of these characters have for each other.
We get a glimpse into the next book and who Emily's hero is going to be and I AM HERE FOR IT. I cannot wait to see her and this character (don't want to spoil it) come together. I can feel the angst from here.
"You're my end all, be all. You're my fairytale."
May 22, 2024
I so appreciate that there are still authors that showcase respect and self esteem in romance books.
Drawing boundaries where boundaries are needed and expected.
Feeling awkward that even if there was one date between another MC and the FMC, it’s still strange for the MMC.
Not the sleep with anyone and everyone, especially with two friends that then have to coexist knowing they slept with the same woman! Or the ex’s sibling trope! 🤦🏻♀️ I can never wrap my head around this one. NEVER!!!!
Her obsession with everything princely and fairytale-y is a bit childish to my liking. Yes we do believe in romanticism and soulmates and stuff but the fairytale prince is a bit of a stretch.
Bloody hell!!!!!!!! My worst nightmare coming true. I really really was liking this book. Like a lot! But the trope?! Why!!!!!!!
He keeps saying the people I love. He loved Abby. He lost the people he loved, Abby. He hurts the people he loves, Abby. And after Lizzie realises the truth, his excuse is still the same, victimising himself for hurting the people he loved, Lizzie, Lucy AND Abby.
STOP SAYING YOU LOVED ABBY SO MANY FREAKING TIMES IN FRONT OF LIZZIE!!!
Wtf man!!!!
How do you go about it knowing she looks so much like his dead wife! How sick is that!
This is the first time ever that I don’t want the MCs to have a HEA. He’s an asshole who doesn’t know how to explain himself and he sure as hell does not deserve such a beautiful soul like Lizzie is.
I am not gratified! They went about it bad. His love declaration is not enough.
He said at the beginning that Abby was too much for him. She was always a free spirit and they drifted apart. And then their one night stand was just a trip down memory lane. And when they got pregnant Abby was NOT happy about it and then she just left them any chance she got. She was not a good mom. But at the end they make this reverence about her and how she was an amazing wife and mom. I don’t know. If i were Lizzie I’d find my happily ever after with someone else, preferably Charles.
June 17, 2023
I loved Jess and James from The Sweetest Agony but Liz and Parker are definitely my favorite couple! The emotional roller coaster that was this book sent me on soo many ups and downs along side these characters. Immense hate, self loathing, bitterness, sorrow, grief, passion, unconditional love, and forgiveness: I was feeling all the feels!
Liz is such a strong, caring and loving person who would do just about anything for those she loves. So when the all seeming, all around happy guy, who seems unimpressed with Liz in general needs help taking care of his daughter for the summer as a nanny Liz doesn't let the discomfort between them stop her from helping take care of Lucy, his five year old daughter. She wants Lucy to have the best summer ever and making some cash with this summer job is just a bonus.
Parker feels damaged and thinks all he does is cause those he loves nothing but pain. After losing his wife, he shuts down blaming himself for what happened and taking the mother of his child away from her. He's the shell of the man he used to be, putting on a mask for his friends and family. Not wanting but desperately needing Liz's help to take care of Lucy just might be what he needs to feel alive again or will it just prove further that he really does only cause those he loves misery.
I loved how Victoria showed us in The Sweetest Agony that we are all going through things and that we should never try to deal with it on our own, there are people all around us that want to help. This story is no different. I also loved that Victoria is showing us that grief and depression is not discriminating of its victims. While she takes us on this emotional ride with Parker as he tries to battle the demons in his mind telling his he's no good, he's ruins everything and only hurts those he loves. That's depression and it's grief showing up trying to tear you down but sometimes when you're ready, there are people that want to help you through the struggle, to help hold the burden so you can breathe a little easier. Help isn't weakness, it's strength that your want to keep going and one day the days will just feel easier.
Liz is such a strong, caring and loving person who would do just about anything for those she loves. So when the all seeming, all around happy guy, who seems unimpressed with Liz in general needs help taking care of his daughter for the summer as a nanny Liz doesn't let the discomfort between them stop her from helping take care of Lucy, his five year old daughter. She wants Lucy to have the best summer ever and making some cash with this summer job is just a bonus.
Parker feels damaged and thinks all he does is cause those he loves nothing but pain. After losing his wife, he shuts down blaming himself for what happened and taking the mother of his child away from her. He's the shell of the man he used to be, putting on a mask for his friends and family. Not wanting but desperately needing Liz's help to take care of Lucy just might be what he needs to feel alive again or will it just prove further that he really does only cause those he loves misery.
I loved how Victoria showed us in The Sweetest Agony that we are all going through things and that we should never try to deal with it on our own, there are people all around us that want to help. This story is no different. I also loved that Victoria is showing us that grief and depression is not discriminating of its victims. While she takes us on this emotional ride with Parker as he tries to battle the demons in his mind telling his he's no good, he's ruins everything and only hurts those he loves. That's depression and it's grief showing up trying to tear you down but sometimes when you're ready, there are people that want to help you through the struggle, to help hold the burden so you can breathe a little easier. Help isn't weakness, it's strength that your want to keep going and one day the days will just feel easier.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
I love the Jess and James’ story and I wasn’t sure if it could be topped but it definitely was. Parker has had a reaction to Liz since he first met her and Liz has no idea why. When Parker’s nanny leaves and Liz needs a job for the summer the perfect opportunity arises. Will they be able to figure out the tension between them for the sake of his daughter?
I loved trying to figure out the reason that Parker had that initial reaction to Liz the whole book. It was very fun to attempt to solve the mystery. All I will say about it, is that the reveal does not disappoint #tome.
The chemistry between Liz and Parker is insane and it is there from the very beginning. There is this scene at near the start where they all go to a club and there is a wonderful scene on the dance floor. The tension and just everything between them throughout the whole book is so good. I love them as a couple.
Parker is such a good dad and he made such a good decision to have Liz be Lucys nanny. Liz has such a special bond with Lucy and they are adorable together. Lucy is so comfortable with her and can ask her anything that her little heart desires. The love interest connecting with the child is always my favorite part of a single parent romance.
The author does a really good job of showing you Parker’s traumas and the reason why he acts the ways that he does. He is a deeply messed up man who has a lot of stuff to work through. It takes a while but I loved seeing him open up to Liz and let her in a little bit. He went through so much with his wife and he carries so much guilt. I really love how this series prioritizes mental health and talks positively about therapy.
Parker and Liz could just never stay away from each other and they are the perfect little family. I loved that all of their friends were very happy for them and were taking bets on when they would get together.
I received an arc through grey’s promotions.
I loved trying to figure out the reason that Parker had that initial reaction to Liz the whole book. It was very fun to attempt to solve the mystery. All I will say about it, is that the reveal does not disappoint #tome.
The chemistry between Liz and Parker is insane and it is there from the very beginning. There is this scene at near the start where they all go to a club and there is a wonderful scene on the dance floor. The tension and just everything between them throughout the whole book is so good. I love them as a couple.
Parker is such a good dad and he made such a good decision to have Liz be Lucys nanny. Liz has such a special bond with Lucy and they are adorable together. Lucy is so comfortable with her and can ask her anything that her little heart desires. The love interest connecting with the child is always my favorite part of a single parent romance.
The author does a really good job of showing you Parker’s traumas and the reason why he acts the ways that he does. He is a deeply messed up man who has a lot of stuff to work through. It takes a while but I loved seeing him open up to Liz and let her in a little bit. He went through so much with his wife and he carries so much guilt. I really love how this series prioritizes mental health and talks positively about therapy.
Parker and Liz could just never stay away from each other and they are the perfect little family. I loved that all of their friends were very happy for them and were taking bets on when they would get together.
I received an arc through grey’s promotions.
Read
June 19, 2023 Tropes:
- Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
- Single dad and nanny
- Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Virgin heroine
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
Thoughts: I loved this romance and I actually didn't read the first book in the series before I read this one! Reading this made me excited to jump into that one next though :) I thought Parker was extremely broody but I understood why; he was navigating so much guilt and angst over his late wife. The build up to their romance was slow and steady. The seven minutes in heaven closet moment was wild hahaha. Anyway, I will continue reading more from Victoria and I can't wait for more people to read this!
Steam: 4/5
Start the series with book one, The Sweetest Agony!
https://geni.us/thesweetestagony?fbcl...
- Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
- Single dad and nanny
- Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Virgin heroine
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
Thoughts: I loved this romance and I actually didn't read the first book in the series before I read this one! Reading this made me excited to jump into that one next though :) I thought Parker was extremely broody but I understood why; he was navigating so much guilt and angst over his late wife. The build up to their romance was slow and steady. The seven minutes in heaven closet moment was wild hahaha. Anyway, I will continue reading more from Victoria and I can't wait for more people to read this!
Steam: 4/5
Start the series with book one, The Sweetest Agony!
https://geni.us/thesweetestagony?fbcl...
March 9, 2024
I love Parker & Liz relationship! I even enjoyed the bonus chapter
April 22, 2025
4.2 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Amazing read as always always Victoria Lum never ever disappoints and it definitely didn't happened here.
Amazing read as always always Victoria Lum never ever disappoints and it definitely didn't happened here.
June 14, 2023
I am obsessed with this story! This book was dark at times, It was angsty and spicy. Parker and Liz are perfect together.
Parker has always treated Liz with contempt for reasons unknown to her. He has kept a huge secret from her and has tried to avoid her at all costs. But that changes when he agrees to hire Liz as his nanny.
When they are together, neither can deny what they are feeling.
This is a 5 star must read!!!
Parker has always treated Liz with contempt for reasons unknown to her. He has kept a huge secret from her and has tried to avoid her at all costs. But that changes when he agrees to hire Liz as his nanny.
When they are together, neither can deny what they are feeling.
This is a 5 star must read!!!
June 12, 2023
5⭐️
3.5🌶️
I loved Parker’s and Liz’s story! Parker is tortured over his wife’s death and the events leading up to it. This colors his view of the world in general, but especially with love interests. Even more where Liz is concerned. His grief and guilt are tangible entities that made my heart hurt for him. The spice is super hot, and Parker lives rent free in my mind! Be prepared for the twists their story will take you through and the heartbreak inevitable with those turns of events. I highly recommend if you love a tortured hero, single dad, nanny, angsty love story. This was a wild ride!
3.5🌶️
I loved Parker’s and Liz’s story! Parker is tortured over his wife’s death and the events leading up to it. This colors his view of the world in general, but especially with love interests. Even more where Liz is concerned. His grief and guilt are tangible entities that made my heart hurt for him. The spice is super hot, and Parker lives rent free in my mind! Be prepared for the twists their story will take you through and the heartbreak inevitable with those turns of events. I highly recommend if you love a tortured hero, single dad, nanny, angsty love story. This was a wild ride!
July 13, 2023
Victoria Lum takes you for a wild ride in “The Coldest Passion”.
Wow!, just Wow!
It has it all, happy, sad, pain, love, hate, anger, secrets, forgiveness, Passion with a capital “P”…..
I love how all the characters are connected and there for each other in the good times and bad times. Parker, Liz, (James) go through a lot, but love brings them through.
Wow!, just Wow!
It has it all, happy, sad, pain, love, hate, anger, secrets, forgiveness, Passion with a capital “P”…..
I love how all the characters are connected and there for each other in the good times and bad times. Parker, Liz, (James) go through a lot, but love brings them through.
July 25, 2023
Parker had been through hell and back in his short 30 something years on earth. And his biggest temptation played a big role in one of his biggest traumas and regrets. His love for his daughter was top-notch. Every time during involved lucy, i loved it!! I am obsessed with the single dad trope right now and this one was so good!
& his grand gesture was so sweet!!
I didn't love Liz. Her character was kind of boring and lacked any sort of confidence. All of her friends kind of treated her like she was this delicate flower child. But she was a grown adult with a big girl job. I wish we got more growth from her.
& Although i liked Parker a lot , some of his actions REALLLLLLLLY bothered me.... Like the first time the 🍆💦 IYKYK. 🤐
Overall, the storyline was interesting and unique. Definitely enough to keep my interest and keep me reading! I enjoyed the side characters and I would like to see where the author takes them!!
& his grand gesture was so sweet!!
I didn't love Liz. Her character was kind of boring and lacked any sort of confidence. All of her friends kind of treated her like she was this delicate flower child. But she was a grown adult with a big girl job. I wish we got more growth from her.
& Although i liked Parker a lot , some of his actions REALLLLLLLLY bothered me.... Like the first time the 🍆💦 IYKYK. 🤐
Overall, the storyline was interesting and unique. Definitely enough to keep my interest and keep me reading! I enjoyed the side characters and I would like to see where the author takes them!!
February 22, 2024
Having never read this author before, I didn’t know what to expect. Turns out, I was pleasantly surprised. This was a single dad nanny romance with a twist I did not see coming.
arc*
arc*
June 18, 2023
Book 2 did not disappoint
We met both Parker & Liz in The Sweetest Agony (TSA from here on out) & got to know them both fairly well. So you think! There’re sides to both of these characters that will leave you with your jaw dropped and me with a literal message to the author saying “WTF Victoria!?” 🤣
Parker Wellington is a very well accomplished architect who we met as one of Jess’ best dating prospects in TSA. He’s a single dad struggling daily with the tragic loss of his wife, but he lives for his sweet daughter, Lucy. And after helping Jess find her HEA, he’s also become best friends with her now husband, James.
Liz Chapman is a kindergarten teacher who happens to have the pleasure of teaching Lucy. She’s also one of Jess’ best friends & James’ sister. But with summer looming in the near future, she needs to find her a summer job to help save some money.
From the second Parker & Liz lay eyes on each other in TSA, there’s an instant explosion of a heated & hated passion. Now, you know that saying that hatred is just misunderstood passion? Well, the enemies vibe here is VERY real! And POTENT! But geez is it good! The reason behind the hatred is a mystery & keeps you guessing all along. The difficult part is that these two share the same group of friends, so they are thrown socially together often. They must find a middle ground to survive.
But when Parker is in desperate need for a new nanny for the summer, & Liz is in need of a new job for the summer, fate brought these two together in a forced proximity situation that should not be missed!
Lucy steals the show in every scene she’s involved in. She’s absolutely precious and adores Liz being her nanny. She’s such a daddy’s girl, but she doesn’t hesitate to tell it like it is. Oh, the innocence & honesty of a child.
I loved seeing a glimpse into James & Jess’ life now & I love seeing how pure their love is. I love the introduction of these new characters & my brain has gone haywire giving them whole stories in my mind because I just want so much more! I know the next book is going to be epic! Once you figure out who Victoria’s next v!ct!m is, you’ll understand my utter excitement.
And don’t forget to click for those bonus chapters at the end!!!! TRUST ME!!!! You WANT to read those!
We met both Parker & Liz in The Sweetest Agony (TSA from here on out) & got to know them both fairly well. So you think! There’re sides to both of these characters that will leave you with your jaw dropped and me with a literal message to the author saying “WTF Victoria!?” 🤣
Parker Wellington is a very well accomplished architect who we met as one of Jess’ best dating prospects in TSA. He’s a single dad struggling daily with the tragic loss of his wife, but he lives for his sweet daughter, Lucy. And after helping Jess find her HEA, he’s also become best friends with her now husband, James.
Liz Chapman is a kindergarten teacher who happens to have the pleasure of teaching Lucy. She’s also one of Jess’ best friends & James’ sister. But with summer looming in the near future, she needs to find her a summer job to help save some money.
From the second Parker & Liz lay eyes on each other in TSA, there’s an instant explosion of a heated & hated passion. Now, you know that saying that hatred is just misunderstood passion? Well, the enemies vibe here is VERY real! And POTENT! But geez is it good! The reason behind the hatred is a mystery & keeps you guessing all along. The difficult part is that these two share the same group of friends, so they are thrown socially together often. They must find a middle ground to survive.
But when Parker is in desperate need for a new nanny for the summer, & Liz is in need of a new job for the summer, fate brought these two together in a forced proximity situation that should not be missed!
Lucy steals the show in every scene she’s involved in. She’s absolutely precious and adores Liz being her nanny. She’s such a daddy’s girl, but she doesn’t hesitate to tell it like it is. Oh, the innocence & honesty of a child.
I loved seeing a glimpse into James & Jess’ life now & I love seeing how pure their love is. I love the introduction of these new characters & my brain has gone haywire giving them whole stories in my mind because I just want so much more! I know the next book is going to be epic! Once you figure out who Victoria’s next v!ct!m is, you’ll understand my utter excitement.
And don’t forget to click for those bonus chapters at the end!!!! TRUST ME!!!! You WANT to read those!
June 28, 2023
This is my first book from Victoria Lum and I am so so happy that I had the chance to read Parker and Liz's story.
Parker lost his wife couple of years ago and left him a widower with his cute litte girl. Since then he feels a great amount of guilt, caused by his thinking that he is the reason his wife is dead. Liz is his best friend sister and the woman he is attracted to since the moment he met her. Liz feels the same towards Parker, bu she can't understand why every time she meets him he is cold and distant. Some things happened and Liz is in need for a summer job. Withe the help from her brother and friends, she is offered to be Parker's daughter nanny. From the moment she moves in his house, their tension between them is sky high and becomes too difficult to fight their feelings. The tension and the heat is too much and they finally submit to the attraction.
Let me tell you one thing - Parker is one dirty talking alpha man and I love it 🌶️🌶️🌶️. The love scenes between them were so hot that I had the feeling that there will be smoke coming out of my kindle. And the smut...OMG the smut...It was everything that I love and more 🥵🥵🥵.
There is still one tiny problem with Parker admitting his love - he is hiding a secret that can cause the end og his realtionship with Liz. What can that be? Well, you will find out as soon you read this book...and believe me it will be worth it a 100 times.
Overall, I am in love with this book and it's characters and I literally can't wait to read Emily and Adrian's book ♥️♥️♥️.
***I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion and this is my voluntary review.***
Parker lost his wife couple of years ago and left him a widower with his cute litte girl. Since then he feels a great amount of guilt, caused by his thinking that he is the reason his wife is dead. Liz is his best friend sister and the woman he is attracted to since the moment he met her. Liz feels the same towards Parker, bu she can't understand why every time she meets him he is cold and distant. Some things happened and Liz is in need for a summer job. Withe the help from her brother and friends, she is offered to be Parker's daughter nanny. From the moment she moves in his house, their tension between them is sky high and becomes too difficult to fight their feelings. The tension and the heat is too much and they finally submit to the attraction.
Let me tell you one thing - Parker is one dirty talking alpha man and I love it 🌶️🌶️🌶️. The love scenes between them were so hot that I had the feeling that there will be smoke coming out of my kindle. And the smut...OMG the smut...It was everything that I love and more 🥵🥵🥵.
There is still one tiny problem with Parker admitting his love - he is hiding a secret that can cause the end og his realtionship with Liz. What can that be? Well, you will find out as soon you read this book...and believe me it will be worth it a 100 times.
Overall, I am in love with this book and it's characters and I literally can't wait to read Emily and Adrian's book ♥️♥️♥️.
***I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion and this is my voluntary review.***
July 8, 2023
Get ready to be swept off your feet by "The Coldest Passion," an absolute standout in a series that will leave you in your feels .
This enemies-to-lovers romance is a thrilling emotional rollercoaster that's guaranteed to keep you hooked. Liz and Parker, both battling their inner demons, find solace and an unexpected love that sets their hearts ablaze. But brace yourself for the twist: Parker despises Liz, and she's left questioning why on earth he has such a strong dislike for her. Things take an intriguing turn when Liz becomes the nanny for Parker's daughter, leading their lives to collide in a tangled web of emotions.
The scorching chemistry between Parker and Liz is off the charts—it's the forbidden, passionate connection we all crave. And let me tell you, the bond between Liz and Lucy is beyond adorable! It brought back memories of my own special relationships. Parker's love for his daughter will melt your heart; he's the epitome of an amazing, devoted dad.
"The Coldest Passion" has claimed a top spot on my list of favorite books this year! It stands out from the rest with its unique and captivating storyline. Victoria's writing is so good, keeping you page turning from beginning to end.
Don't miss out! Add "The Coldest Passion" to your must-read list, and get ready for an unforgettable journey that will keep you romanced until the very last page.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This enemies-to-lovers romance is a thrilling emotional rollercoaster that's guaranteed to keep you hooked. Liz and Parker, both battling their inner demons, find solace and an unexpected love that sets their hearts ablaze. But brace yourself for the twist: Parker despises Liz, and she's left questioning why on earth he has such a strong dislike for her. Things take an intriguing turn when Liz becomes the nanny for Parker's daughter, leading their lives to collide in a tangled web of emotions.
The scorching chemistry between Parker and Liz is off the charts—it's the forbidden, passionate connection we all crave. And let me tell you, the bond between Liz and Lucy is beyond adorable! It brought back memories of my own special relationships. Parker's love for his daughter will melt your heart; he's the epitome of an amazing, devoted dad.
"The Coldest Passion" has claimed a top spot on my list of favorite books this year! It stands out from the rest with its unique and captivating storyline. Victoria's writing is so good, keeping you page turning from beginning to end.
Don't miss out! Add "The Coldest Passion" to your must-read list, and get ready for an unforgettable journey that will keep you romanced until the very last page.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 11, 2023
Parker and Liz
-Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
-Single dad and nanny
-Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
Parker lost his wife and hasn’t dated much until he goes and meet a woman and she bring her friend Liz and when he see her he freezes and walk out. After that he start to avoid her but Liz is his daughter teacher. His previous nanny quit and he need one until Liz friend volunteer her but he treat her wrong a little hostile.
Liz doesn’t understand why he hated her so much if they haven’t spoken much not since that day until they start spending a lot of time together and the steam scene are so good so good.
Then the plot twist you don’t see coming it involve
Liz and I was in shock seriously I was “No” how can they be together with this secret how are they going to recover I’m sorry I Can’t I don’t see it.
I received and arc from Literally Yours PR for my honest reviewed.
-Dirty talking hero
- Tortured hero
-Single dad and nanny
-Single dad with a tragic past
- Forced proximity
- Cute little kid
- Girl next door
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden love and secrets!
Parker lost his wife and hasn’t dated much until he goes and meet a woman and she bring her friend Liz and when he see her he freezes and walk out. After that he start to avoid her but Liz is his daughter teacher. His previous nanny quit and he need one until Liz friend volunteer her but he treat her wrong a little hostile.
Liz doesn’t understand why he hated her so much if they haven’t spoken much not since that day until they start spending a lot of time together and the steam scene are so good so good.
Then the plot twist you don’t see coming it involve
Liz and I was in shock seriously I was “No” how can they be together with this secret how are they going to recover I’m sorry I Can’t I don’t see it.
I received and arc from Literally Yours PR for my honest reviewed.
June 19, 2023
I tried to take my time with this book, and forcing myself to out it down to get sleep was torture!! Parker, I have no words! He is just amazing and my heart broke for him and by the end of the book it was all glued back together. He is a tortured soul who just needed the right person by his side.
I loved Liz to begin with and seeing her relationships build in this book was just amazing and I was a sobbing mess during parts of this book. The plot twist had me on the edge of my seat!
I cannot wait for Em's story in book 3!
I loved Liz to begin with and seeing her relationships build in this book was just amazing and I was a sobbing mess during parts of this book. The plot twist had me on the edge of my seat!
I cannot wait for Em's story in book 3!
June 30, 2023
This was my first book that I've read by Victoria Lum, so I didn't know what to expect, but I absolutely loved this angsty single Dad romance.
Liz and Parker are drawn to each other, but Parker is 90% of the time cold and hostile towards her, and she's unsure why.
Parker is holding a lot of secrets within and is holding on to a lot of past trauma and self loathing. He's been a single Dad since his wife passed away 3 years ago and is dedicated to making his little girl Lucy happy. Liz is his best friend James's sister and he is seriously attracted to her, even though he has a lot of anger inside towards her. We don't find out the cause of this anger until a lot further on in the book.
When Liz offers to become Lucy's Nanny for the summer, these two start to become closer and the line between love and hate blurs completely and boy do the sparks fly! These two had some serious chemistry and even though Liz is completely inexperienced she is totally down for the dirty talk that Parker sends her way.
This angsty, forbidden love romance was completely enthralling, full of steam and passion, and had me in an emotional chokehold at times. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to other loves of romance with a hint of darkness. I'll definitely be checking out the rest of the series.
Liz and Parker are drawn to each other, but Parker is 90% of the time cold and hostile towards her, and she's unsure why.
Parker is holding a lot of secrets within and is holding on to a lot of past trauma and self loathing. He's been a single Dad since his wife passed away 3 years ago and is dedicated to making his little girl Lucy happy. Liz is his best friend James's sister and he is seriously attracted to her, even though he has a lot of anger inside towards her. We don't find out the cause of this anger until a lot further on in the book.
When Liz offers to become Lucy's Nanny for the summer, these two start to become closer and the line between love and hate blurs completely and boy do the sparks fly! These two had some serious chemistry and even though Liz is completely inexperienced she is totally down for the dirty talk that Parker sends her way.
This angsty, forbidden love romance was completely enthralling, full of steam and passion, and had me in an emotional chokehold at times. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to other loves of romance with a hint of darkness. I'll definitely be checking out the rest of the series.
June 15, 2023
*dirty talk (on point)
*Grumpy/sunshine
*Single dad & nanny
* Tragic past
*Brothers best friend
*Forbidden love
I don't want to give any spoilers BUT....7 minutes in Heaven was probably my fav part 🥵
Immediately sucked into trying to unravel this dark secret. The tension between Parker & Liz was so well portrayed...I felt uncomfortable FOR Liz. The character development in this is immaculate. I love that Jess & James play big roles! I fell in love with their story! & Sweet little Lucy...she was adorable!
*Grumpy/sunshine
*Single dad & nanny
* Tragic past
*Brothers best friend
*Forbidden love
I don't want to give any spoilers BUT....7 minutes in Heaven was probably my fav part 🥵
Immediately sucked into trying to unravel this dark secret. The tension between Parker & Liz was so well portrayed...I felt uncomfortable FOR Liz. The character development in this is immaculate. I love that Jess & James play big roles! I fell in love with their story! & Sweet little Lucy...she was adorable!
July 5, 2023
Man, oh man. I loved The Sweetest Agony and this one didn't disappoint. I can't decide which I like better. This is a must read and you will feel all the emotions.
April 30, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
The Coldest Passion was the perfect mix of angst, longing, and an amazing slow burn. Liz and Parker had such amazing chemistry, and I was dying for them to get together. Victoria is so good at creating tension between her characters.
Parker needs a nanny after his current one quits without much notice. Liz is a teacher and his best friend's sister and she needs a job for the summer to make extra money. She agrees to be his live-in nanny, but they both are not happy about the situation. Parker was so cold and disliked Liz for reasons, but really, he was angry with himself. He had a lot of trauma and guilt over his wife's death, and he is keeping some huge secrets from Liz, which will lead to a big fallout.
Parker had a dirty mouth on him, and the spice was so hot. Victoria Lum really amped things up in her second book. I loved this one more than the first one.
I am so excited to read Emily and Adrian's book next.
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
The Coldest Passion was the perfect mix of angst, longing, and an amazing slow burn. Liz and Parker had such amazing chemistry, and I was dying for them to get together. Victoria is so good at creating tension between her characters.
Parker needs a nanny after his current one quits without much notice. Liz is a teacher and his best friend's sister and she needs a job for the summer to make extra money. She agrees to be his live-in nanny, but they both are not happy about the situation. Parker was so cold and disliked Liz for reasons, but really, he was angry with himself. He had a lot of trauma and guilt over his wife's death, and he is keeping some huge secrets from Liz, which will lead to a big fallout.
Parker had a dirty mouth on him, and the spice was so hot. Victoria Lum really amped things up in her second book. I loved this one more than the first one.
I am so excited to read Emily and Adrian's book next.
July 3, 2023
I was always very interested in Parker when he was mentioned in the first book. He is a single dad.
Liz is a breath of fresh air, I love her sunshine personally. She is truly a light in this book.
Parker is struggling around his wife passed away and is in a very dark place. But he holds a great secret that will change everything.
When Parker and Liz finally get past their “hate” for each other.. wow do sparks fly with them. Parker has a dirty dirty mouth ( I am hear for it).
Can forget about Lucy such a sweet innocent little girl. She warmed my heart throughout the whole book.
This book definitely made me cry a few times and different moments. For me when books involve kids it pulls at my heart that much more.
Your going to want to read this book. You won’t be disappointed when you do!
Liz is a breath of fresh air, I love her sunshine personally. She is truly a light in this book.
Parker is struggling around his wife passed away and is in a very dark place. But he holds a great secret that will change everything.
When Parker and Liz finally get past their “hate” for each other.. wow do sparks fly with them. Parker has a dirty dirty mouth ( I am hear for it).
Can forget about Lucy such a sweet innocent little girl. She warmed my heart throughout the whole book.
This book definitely made me cry a few times and different moments. For me when books involve kids it pulls at my heart that much more.
Your going to want to read this book. You won’t be disappointed when you do!
July 3, 2023
The Coldest Passion by Victoria Lum, Parker Wellington is a successful architect, but inside he struggles every day with grief and the pain of losing his wife, his life has become his daughter, Lucy, who with five years it is for whom Parker continues to move beyond pain, in front of others he shows himself to be strong but inside only for Lucy he forces himself to live, when his nanny leaves and he needs to find someone to help him with Lucy during the summer vacation, he ends hiring Liz Chapman, who is Lucy's teacher and her best friend's sister, but this is not all, since the first moment they met their attraction was immediate but Parker decides to stay away from her, but that's not so easy since they share the same circle of friends and when Liz starts working as Lucy's babysitter that will be impossible. As the story progresses we can see the magnitude of Parker's trauma and what Liz's help and the love of her daughter Lucy mean to get ahead and see a future.
A beautiful story where the author shows us how important sincere support is for those who suffer from depression and battle with their demons, showing the importance of mental health and therapy for those who suffer from it. A story full of intense moments, unexpected turns, anguish, heartache, but also sweetness, friendship and love. A beautiful story that you will not want to miss, Highly Recommended!!
*Thanks to Victoria Lum and Literally Yours PR for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*
The Coldest Passion de Victoria Lum, Parker Wellington es un arquitecto exitoso, pero en su interior batalla todos los días con el luto y el dolor de haber perdido a su esposa, su vida se ha convertido en su hija, Lucy, quien con cinco años es por quien Parker sigue avanzando más allá del dolor, frente a otros se muestra fuerte pero por dentro solo por Lucy se obliga a vivir, cuando su niñera se va y necesita encontrar a alguien que le ayude con Lucy durante las vacaciones de Verano, termina contratando a Liz Chapman, quien es la maestra de Lucy y la hermana de su mejor amigo, pero esto no es todo, ya que desde el primer momento que se conocieron su atracción fue inmediata pero Parker decide mantenerse alejado de ella, pero no estan fácil ya que comparten el mismo círculo de amigos y cuando Liz comienza a trabajar como niñera de Lucy eso será imposible. A medida que la historia avanza podemos ver la magnitud del trauma de Parker y lo que significa la ayuda de Liz y el amor de su hija Lucy para salir adelante y ver un futuro.
Una hermosa historia donde la autora nos muestra lo importante que es el apoyo sincero para aquellos que sufren de depresión y batallan con sus demonios, mostrando la importancia de la salud mental y la terapia para aquellos que la sufren. Una historia llena de momentos intensos, giros inesperados, angustia, dolor del corazon, pero tambien dulzura, amistad y amor. Una hermosa historia que no querrás dejar pasar, Altamente Recomendada!!
*Gracias a Victoria Lum y a Literally Yours PR por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*
A beautiful story where the author shows us how important sincere support is for those who suffer from depression and battle with their demons, showing the importance of mental health and therapy for those who suffer from it. A story full of intense moments, unexpected turns, anguish, heartache, but also sweetness, friendship and love. A beautiful story that you will not want to miss, Highly Recommended!!
*Thanks to Victoria Lum and Literally Yours PR for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*
The Coldest Passion de Victoria Lum, Parker Wellington es un arquitecto exitoso, pero en su interior batalla todos los días con el luto y el dolor de haber perdido a su esposa, su vida se ha convertido en su hija, Lucy, quien con cinco años es por quien Parker sigue avanzando más allá del dolor, frente a otros se muestra fuerte pero por dentro solo por Lucy se obliga a vivir, cuando su niñera se va y necesita encontrar a alguien que le ayude con Lucy durante las vacaciones de Verano, termina contratando a Liz Chapman, quien es la maestra de Lucy y la hermana de su mejor amigo, pero esto no es todo, ya que desde el primer momento que se conocieron su atracción fue inmediata pero Parker decide mantenerse alejado de ella, pero no estan fácil ya que comparten el mismo círculo de amigos y cuando Liz comienza a trabajar como niñera de Lucy eso será imposible. A medida que la historia avanza podemos ver la magnitud del trauma de Parker y lo que significa la ayuda de Liz y el amor de su hija Lucy para salir adelante y ver un futuro.
Una hermosa historia donde la autora nos muestra lo importante que es el apoyo sincero para aquellos que sufren de depresión y batallan con sus demonios, mostrando la importancia de la salud mental y la terapia para aquellos que la sufren. Una historia llena de momentos intensos, giros inesperados, angustia, dolor del corazon, pero tambien dulzura, amistad y amor. Una hermosa historia que no querrás dejar pasar, Altamente Recomendada!!
*Gracias a Victoria Lum y a Literally Yours PR por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*
June 26, 2023
4.5 out of 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is the first book of the author's that I've read and I would like to read more from her, especially from this series. This is book 2 in the LA Hearts Series but can be read as a standalone. The book's blurb is straightforward. It's a good single dad and nanny dual pov romance.
As a kindergarten teacher, Liz doesn't make enough money to survive alone on that through the summer so she agrees to be Parker's nanny. She likes Lucy, his daughter, just fine but it's him who she has problems with - or more like him who has a problem with her. Parker gives her attitude and is difficult to be around with his mood swings but Liz doesn't let him get away with acting like that. While she is forgiving and understanding, she's going to make her feelings be known and ask questions when she has them. Aside from how she was with Lucy, I liked how decisive she was and how she pushed Parker to be better.
Although he's not grieving because he still loves her, Parker holds a lot of guilt when it comes to his late wife. He blames himself and has not learned how to forgive himself. Being around Liz brings out feelings that only add to his anger and guilt and he unfairly takes it out on her at times. However, he's able to recognize he's not being fair to her and apologizes, especially after being confronted by Liz. As he actually gets to know Liz, he cannot stay away from her - even if he knows it's not the best idea. While he has his secrets, his feelings for Liz are true and he really does want her to have happiness. Parker's emotions are raw that you can understand why he acted the way he does and you can't help but to feel for him and the situation that they find themselves in. Maybe his methods weren't the best but I liked that he was able to accept that he needed help and love, as well as realizing that he would do whatever to let Liz know he loved her.
While it's one sided from Parker's end, their romance begins with an enemies to lovers situation. Parker acts rude and Liz doesn't like him because of it. However, underneath that dislike, there was always attraction between them. The tension between them was strong and worth the end result. Their romance was spicy enough but there were still enough moments between them where they got to know each other and build a relationship that is more than just psychical attraction. Parker's attitude and his secrets are the only real source of conflict and they will definitely keep readers guessing what it could be that it's hiding.I'm actually not surprised but the reveal was done well. Aside from their romance, you will like the moments they spend together as a family of 3 and will like the side characters. Overall, readers will enjoy this book. As for me, this was a great introduction to the author's works and I can't wait to read Adrian's book next!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is the first book of the author's that I've read and I would like to read more from her, especially from this series. This is book 2 in the LA Hearts Series but can be read as a standalone. The book's blurb is straightforward. It's a good single dad and nanny dual pov romance.
As a kindergarten teacher, Liz doesn't make enough money to survive alone on that through the summer so she agrees to be Parker's nanny. She likes Lucy, his daughter, just fine but it's him who she has problems with - or more like him who has a problem with her. Parker gives her attitude and is difficult to be around with his mood swings but Liz doesn't let him get away with acting like that. While she is forgiving and understanding, she's going to make her feelings be known and ask questions when she has them. Aside from how she was with Lucy, I liked how decisive she was and how she pushed Parker to be better.
Although he's not grieving because he still loves her, Parker holds a lot of guilt when it comes to his late wife. He blames himself and has not learned how to forgive himself. Being around Liz brings out feelings that only add to his anger and guilt and he unfairly takes it out on her at times. However, he's able to recognize he's not being fair to her and apologizes, especially after being confronted by Liz. As he actually gets to know Liz, he cannot stay away from her - even if he knows it's not the best idea. While he has his secrets, his feelings for Liz are true and he really does want her to have happiness. Parker's emotions are raw that you can understand why he acted the way he does and you can't help but to feel for him and the situation that they find themselves in. Maybe his methods weren't the best but I liked that he was able to accept that he needed help and love, as well as realizing that he would do whatever to let Liz know he loved her.
While it's one sided from Parker's end, their romance begins with an enemies to lovers situation. Parker acts rude and Liz doesn't like him because of it. However, underneath that dislike, there was always attraction between them. The tension between them was strong and worth the end result. Their romance was spicy enough but there were still enough moments between them where they got to know each other and build a relationship that is more than just psychical attraction. Parker's attitude and his secrets are the only real source of conflict and they will definitely keep readers guessing what it could be that it's hiding.
January 4, 2026
4.5 out of 5 stars
I thought I was prepared for Parker and Liz’s story after their tension in The Sweetest Agony, but Victoria Lum absolutely blew me out of the water. If you love high-stakes angst, "hate-to-love" energy, and a hero who is equal parts "tetchy grump" and "complete mush," you need The Coldest Passion in your life yesterday. The mystery of why Parker seemingly despised Liz from the second they met kept me guessing the entire time, and once they are forced into a summer nanny situation, that pressure cooker of tension finally explodes. It’s like a suspense movie wrapped in a spicy romance, and I couldn't stop reading until I hit the final word.
The chemistry between these two is insane—it’s that "Carolina Reaper" level of heat that leaves your jaw on the floor. Whether it’s a charged moment on a crowded dance floor or a high-stakes game of 7 Minutes in Heaven, the pull between them is electric. Parker might be a petulant grump who tries to fight his attraction, but once his resistance breaks, he is absolutely feral for Liz. His dirty mouth is worth every bit of the attitude he gives her! But beneath the spice, there is so much raw, real heart. The way the author explores Parker’s trauma and grief over losing his wife is deeply moving, and watching him slowly open up to his therapist, his friends, and finally to Liz was such a cathartic journey.
One of my favorite parts of any single-parent romance is the bond between the love interest and the child, and Liz and Lucy are absolute perfection together. Lucy is the brightest part of the book, and her relationship with Liz is so sweet and honest that it makes the "found family" vibes hit ten times harder. Of course, it’s not all sunshine and roses—Parker is holding onto a massive secret that threatens to wreck everything. When that reveal finally happens, I was literally messaging the author like "WTF Victoria!?" because I did not see it coming! It led to a grand gesture that had me sobbing so hard through chapters 25 and 26.
Overall, this book reached out, grabbed my heart, and refused to let go. It’s a beautiful story about healing, mental health, and the kind of love that can bring even the most broken man to his knees. Plus, getting to see the whole friend group again and a sneak peek at the next couple has me vibrating with excitement for Emily’s book! Don’t forget to check out the bonus chapters at the end—trust me, you want those! If you're looking for a book that is real, raw, and deliciously steamy, The Coldest Passion is a total must-read.
I thought I was prepared for Parker and Liz’s story after their tension in The Sweetest Agony, but Victoria Lum absolutely blew me out of the water. If you love high-stakes angst, "hate-to-love" energy, and a hero who is equal parts "tetchy grump" and "complete mush," you need The Coldest Passion in your life yesterday. The mystery of why Parker seemingly despised Liz from the second they met kept me guessing the entire time, and once they are forced into a summer nanny situation, that pressure cooker of tension finally explodes. It’s like a suspense movie wrapped in a spicy romance, and I couldn't stop reading until I hit the final word.
The chemistry between these two is insane—it’s that "Carolina Reaper" level of heat that leaves your jaw on the floor. Whether it’s a charged moment on a crowded dance floor or a high-stakes game of 7 Minutes in Heaven, the pull between them is electric. Parker might be a petulant grump who tries to fight his attraction, but once his resistance breaks, he is absolutely feral for Liz. His dirty mouth is worth every bit of the attitude he gives her! But beneath the spice, there is so much raw, real heart. The way the author explores Parker’s trauma and grief over losing his wife is deeply moving, and watching him slowly open up to his therapist, his friends, and finally to Liz was such a cathartic journey.
One of my favorite parts of any single-parent romance is the bond between the love interest and the child, and Liz and Lucy are absolute perfection together. Lucy is the brightest part of the book, and her relationship with Liz is so sweet and honest that it makes the "found family" vibes hit ten times harder. Of course, it’s not all sunshine and roses—Parker is holding onto a massive secret that threatens to wreck everything. When that reveal finally happens, I was literally messaging the author like "WTF Victoria!?" because I did not see it coming! It led to a grand gesture that had me sobbing so hard through chapters 25 and 26.
Overall, this book reached out, grabbed my heart, and refused to let go. It’s a beautiful story about healing, mental health, and the kind of love that can bring even the most broken man to his knees. Plus, getting to see the whole friend group again and a sneak peek at the next couple has me vibrating with excitement for Emily’s book! Don’t forget to check out the bonus chapters at the end—trust me, you want those! If you're looking for a book that is real, raw, and deliciously steamy, The Coldest Passion is a total must-read.
June 29, 2023
4.25 Stars!
Having read The Sweetest Agony I've been looking so forward to more of Ms.Lum's words! From the moment I read the synopsis for this one I was already pulled in. I picked it up and got right back into the LA Hearts world immediately! I enjoyed this story so very much!
Liz and Parker's journey pulled me right in from the get go! Liz and Parker have been in each other's lives for some time as Parker is best friends with Liz's brother James, but getting along is a whole other situation. Liz is also Parker's daughters kindergarten teacher. Liz needs a job over the summer and Parker needs a nanny for Lucy so there friends come up with a solution, Liz being his new nanny. Can Parker and Liz find a way to get along? and can they let their hearts open up to one another or is there too much between them?
I've been so curious about Liz and Parker and was so glad that these two were getting their own story. I didn't know how they'd handle their feelings and being around one another which pulled me even more into their story. I related to both Liz and Parker throughout and the realness of their journey truly got to me. I loved that these two and their story had me going through such a range of emotions from beginning to end! It isn't easy for these two and i was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how everything would unfold for them.
I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both Liz and Parker and peel back their layers. The chemistry these two shared was undeniable and their hearts shined with their feelings. Finding your way, tackling everything within, and letting others in is not easy, but oh is it ever worth it!
I love whenever a story and it's characters can make me feel SO much, the way that i can have so many moments pull emotions from within me like Parker and Liz's journey did!
With The Coldest Passion, Ms.Lum has created such a great read that brought depth and feels that had my heart and i feeling every bit! This author doesn't shy away from the tough and real and i so appreciate that she sheds light on so much through her books. Makes me take a step back and look at myself and that is forever resonating. If you haven't checked out her work yet, you so need to! I can't wait to head back into the LA Hearts world with the third installment, The Harshest Hope! 💙
Be sure to read the author's note.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
Having read The Sweetest Agony I've been looking so forward to more of Ms.Lum's words! From the moment I read the synopsis for this one I was already pulled in. I picked it up and got right back into the LA Hearts world immediately! I enjoyed this story so very much!
Liz and Parker's journey pulled me right in from the get go! Liz and Parker have been in each other's lives for some time as Parker is best friends with Liz's brother James, but getting along is a whole other situation. Liz is also Parker's daughters kindergarten teacher. Liz needs a job over the summer and Parker needs a nanny for Lucy so there friends come up with a solution, Liz being his new nanny. Can Parker and Liz find a way to get along? and can they let their hearts open up to one another or is there too much between them?
I've been so curious about Liz and Parker and was so glad that these two were getting their own story. I didn't know how they'd handle their feelings and being around one another which pulled me even more into their story. I related to both Liz and Parker throughout and the realness of their journey truly got to me. I loved that these two and their story had me going through such a range of emotions from beginning to end! It isn't easy for these two and i was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how everything would unfold for them.
I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both Liz and Parker and peel back their layers. The chemistry these two shared was undeniable and their hearts shined with their feelings. Finding your way, tackling everything within, and letting others in is not easy, but oh is it ever worth it!
I love whenever a story and it's characters can make me feel SO much, the way that i can have so many moments pull emotions from within me like Parker and Liz's journey did!
With The Coldest Passion, Ms.Lum has created such a great read that brought depth and feels that had my heart and i feeling every bit! This author doesn't shy away from the tough and real and i so appreciate that she sheds light on so much through her books. Makes me take a step back and look at myself and that is forever resonating. If you haven't checked out her work yet, you so need to! I can't wait to head back into the LA Hearts world with the third installment, The Harshest Hope! 💙
Be sure to read the author's note.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
June 26, 2023
I LOVED this book! I've come to learn recently that I am a sucker for the single dad troupe, there's just something about it that I just eat up and this book was no exception to that! I really enjoyed the overall story, the drama, the spice, the twists and turns AND an honorable mention for Lucy, Parker's daughter, she was the most adorable character and I loved her relationship with Liz so so much.
Parker was in a very dark place after his wife's death and he didn't let anyone see that; he was angry and drinking to much. He blamed himself for what happened and hid behind fake smiles and charm...except Liz saw right through that. Liz is the complete opposite, always so fully of life and always cheerful. They never had any type of friendship / relationship other than Liz's brother being Parkers best friend and them being forced to interact because of that. Except she was the only one who Parker showed his true colors to and Liz didn't know why he hated her so much. But now that she's Lucy's new nanny and living with Lucy and Parker full time there was not time to figure out what his problem was - that would have to wait because she needs this job during summer break.
There's a realllly fine line between hate, lust, feelings and love and those lines very quickly blurred, Liz knows Parker is bad for her but she can't help it. Parker tried really hard to hate her but seeing her with Lucy and seeing her everyday in his house was to much of a temptation. The sexual tension and chemistry went both ways and it wasn't long before they became a thing. Liz made him happier than he'd been in a long time and he wasn't so angry anymore, not drinking, and being more present with Lucy, but Parker is keeping secrets from Liz that are destined to pull them apart. Will this secret be to much for them to get over?!?!
This was my first book by Victoria and it will definitely not be my last. I was hooked from start to finish, I loved everything about this AND that plot twist HOLY SH*T, I did not see that coming. Highly recommend if you like the single dad and nanny troupe, forced proximity, tortured hero, and brothers best friend this is the book for you!
Thank you to Victoria for an eARC in exchange for an honest review! HAPPY RELEASE WEEK BTW!
Parker was in a very dark place after his wife's death and he didn't let anyone see that; he was angry and drinking to much. He blamed himself for what happened and hid behind fake smiles and charm...except Liz saw right through that. Liz is the complete opposite, always so fully of life and always cheerful. They never had any type of friendship / relationship other than Liz's brother being Parkers best friend and them being forced to interact because of that. Except she was the only one who Parker showed his true colors to and Liz didn't know why he hated her so much. But now that she's Lucy's new nanny and living with Lucy and Parker full time there was not time to figure out what his problem was - that would have to wait because she needs this job during summer break.
There's a realllly fine line between hate, lust, feelings and love and those lines very quickly blurred, Liz knows Parker is bad for her but she can't help it. Parker tried really hard to hate her but seeing her with Lucy and seeing her everyday in his house was to much of a temptation. The sexual tension and chemistry went both ways and it wasn't long before they became a thing. Liz made him happier than he'd been in a long time and he wasn't so angry anymore, not drinking, and being more present with Lucy, but Parker is keeping secrets from Liz that are destined to pull them apart. Will this secret be to much for them to get over?!?!
This was my first book by Victoria and it will definitely not be my last. I was hooked from start to finish, I loved everything about this AND that plot twist HOLY SH*T, I did not see that coming. Highly recommend if you like the single dad and nanny troupe, forced proximity, tortured hero, and brothers best friend this is the book for you!
Thank you to Victoria for an eARC in exchange for an honest review! HAPPY RELEASE WEEK BTW!
June 28, 2023
From the moment I opened this book, I knew it was going to be one I needed to finish as fast as possible! I wasn’t sure what type of romance to expect in this story but it was such a great read.
Parker is a single dad to his little girl, Lucy, who only goes through the motions of life for his daughter. Keeping all his demons inside, he pushes on day by day but never lets anyone in. Parker thinks he can take the burden of his darkness to keep it away from his family and friends. Liz is our positive and bubbly elementary school teacher and is also Parker’s best friends sister. Having grown up with her parents sweet and long marriage, Liz wishes for a romance and man like those she reads about. When Parker gets in a tight spot after his nanny quits, Liz’s brother and sister-in-law are quick to volunteer her for the job. Already being Lucy’s kindergarten teacher, that Lucy adores, it just makes sense.
Parker has always been standoffish towards Liz and it’s no different when she comes to stay with them. The secrets he’s keeping serve as a way to stay away from Liz, someone he shouldn’t be drawn to. As Parker, Liz, and Lucy start to get into a routine as a little faux family, things start to change. Unable to stay away from each other, Parker and Liz explode in a ball of fiery tension. Choosing to stop fighting their feelings and the attraction, they get closer and closer, but try to keep it to themselves. The happiness can only last so long until the secrets start coming out and hearts start breaking. I will say there are definitely some dramatized parts that didn’t need to be that intense but this book was overall wonderful to read.
This story was the perfect romance read for those who like single dad and opposites attract tropes! There was banter, there was tension, plenty of amazingly written spicy scenes, and even some heartbreak but this was a great read.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions and the author for gifting me this ARC 🩵
Parker is a single dad to his little girl, Lucy, who only goes through the motions of life for his daughter. Keeping all his demons inside, he pushes on day by day but never lets anyone in. Parker thinks he can take the burden of his darkness to keep it away from his family and friends. Liz is our positive and bubbly elementary school teacher and is also Parker’s best friends sister. Having grown up with her parents sweet and long marriage, Liz wishes for a romance and man like those she reads about. When Parker gets in a tight spot after his nanny quits, Liz’s brother and sister-in-law are quick to volunteer her for the job. Already being Lucy’s kindergarten teacher, that Lucy adores, it just makes sense.
Parker has always been standoffish towards Liz and it’s no different when she comes to stay with them. The secrets he’s keeping serve as a way to stay away from Liz, someone he shouldn’t be drawn to. As Parker, Liz, and Lucy start to get into a routine as a little faux family, things start to change. Unable to stay away from each other, Parker and Liz explode in a ball of fiery tension. Choosing to stop fighting their feelings and the attraction, they get closer and closer, but try to keep it to themselves. The happiness can only last so long until the secrets start coming out and hearts start breaking. I will say there are definitely some dramatized parts that didn’t need to be that intense but this book was overall wonderful to read.
This story was the perfect romance read for those who like single dad and opposites attract tropes! There was banter, there was tension, plenty of amazingly written spicy scenes, and even some heartbreak but this was a great read.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions and the author for gifting me this ARC 🩵
June 28, 2023
There is nothing cold about this extraordinary story by Victoria Lum, it is as hot as an erupting volcano, and it is gut-wrenching tragic in places with one of the biggest twists in a tail I have read in 2023, my second book by this author and I am as enchanted as I was with the first if you love single-dad, brothers best-friend with a slice of enemies to lovers then The Coldest Passion is a must-read.
There is no doubt that Parker is buried underneath a weight of guilt, sadness and anger since the death of his wife, but like an actor over the years he has played a part of a put-together man and dad so that even his friends and family have no idea how he really feels, the only time he is himself is around his young daughter Lucy, but Liz his daughters kindergarten teacher and his best friends sister can see right through him, hence one of the reasons that their interactions have only ever been brief to the point that Liz has a sneaking suspension that grumpy Parker hates her, which is the furtherest from the truth than you can imagine, this was where Ms Lum pulled out all the stops as you could feel the emotions, the angish the connection flow from the pages, when Parker needs a nanny for the summer vacation and Liz needs a job somehow she becomes adorable Lucy's nanny, the instant connection the two have is something special to read and so is the time the three spend together as a family, but even when this couple finally give into their feelings you also feel that Ms Lum is going to drop something into this story that is going to blow your world apart and she sure did, the HEA is a 5* winner The Coldest Passion a must!
"I can't resist helping a wounded animal, and that's Parker:
There is no doubt that Parker is buried underneath a weight of guilt, sadness and anger since the death of his wife, but like an actor over the years he has played a part of a put-together man and dad so that even his friends and family have no idea how he really feels, the only time he is himself is around his young daughter Lucy, but Liz his daughters kindergarten teacher and his best friends sister can see right through him, hence one of the reasons that their interactions have only ever been brief to the point that Liz has a sneaking suspension that grumpy Parker hates her, which is the furtherest from the truth than you can imagine, this was where Ms Lum pulled out all the stops as you could feel the emotions, the angish the connection flow from the pages, when Parker needs a nanny for the summer vacation and Liz needs a job somehow she becomes adorable Lucy's nanny, the instant connection the two have is something special to read and so is the time the three spend together as a family, but even when this couple finally give into their feelings you also feel that Ms Lum is going to drop something into this story that is going to blow your world apart and she sure did, the HEA is a 5* winner The Coldest Passion a must!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews