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Rolling Hills #1
The One I Want
As a professional football player, I had a playbook for everything on the field. Then I retired and found out there’s no playbook for life—especially when the one you thought was perfect gets flipped upside down. There’s no play for suddenly becoming a divorced, single dad. There’s no plan for moving your family back to the town you grew up in. And there is definitely not a play for falling in love with the nanny. I didn’t mean to. Betsy Sullivan just has that way about her. It started with wanting to see her smile. It grew to needing to hear her laugh. Before I knew it, her red lips and perfect curves were all I could think about. And I started to picture a life together - A perfect life together. Except nothing is ever perfect. Nothing is how you envision it. I learned that hard lesson once already. And if I’m not careful, I might find myself learning it again. I shouldn’t want her. My head knows that. My heart doesn’t seem to care. Neither does hers.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
675 people are currently reading
1488 people want to read
About the author
Chelle Sloan
26 books1,221 followersKnown for her witty sense of humor, Chelle Sloan is a former sports reporter who recently completed her master's degree in journalism, and is now putting that to good use — one happily ever after at a time.
An Ohio native, she’s fiercely loyal to Cleveland sports, is the owner of way too many — yet not enough — tumblers and will be a New Kids on the Block fan until the day she dies. She does her best writing at Panera, or any place that's not her office. Oh, and yes, you probably saw her on TikTok.
As for her own happily every after? Maybe one day...
Follow me!
Newsletter: https://geni.us/ChelleNewsletter
Facebook: https://geni.us/ChelleFacebook
Facebook Reader Group: https://geni.us/ChelleSquad
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TikTok: https://geni.us/chelleTikTok
An Ohio native, she’s fiercely loyal to Cleveland sports, is the owner of way too many — yet not enough — tumblers and will be a New Kids on the Block fan until the day she dies. She does her best writing at Panera, or any place that's not her office. Oh, and yes, you probably saw her on TikTok.
As for her own happily every after? Maybe one day...
Follow me!
Newsletter: https://geni.us/ChelleNewsletter
Facebook: https://geni.us/ChelleFacebook
Facebook Reader Group: https://geni.us/ChelleSquad
Instagram: https://geni.us/ChelleInstagram
TikTok: https://geni.us/chelleTikTok
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
September 8, 2023
MCs:
- Wes, 35, football player
- Betsy, 29, nanny
Book info:
- No cheating, OPD
- Non-third act breakup (see notes below)
- Single dad - nanny romance
- Small town romance
- Standalone
- Found family
- HFN (living together)
Notes:
- The ex-wife appeared at the beginning and at the day of signing the divorce papers. She didn't cause any drama, but when Betsy brought the kids to her, she made some snide remarks on Betsy's body. Which she wasn't having any of, so instead of choosing the high ground, Betsy went low too and gave her a taste of her own medicine. 😅
- For the non-third act breakup, Betsy's dad arranged an interview for her, but she doesn't want that job. Then Wes found out this interview and all the toxic things his ex told him about him holding her back suddenly made him think that he was doing the same with Betsy. That's why he pushed her to go to the interview. This is their first and only fight in this book, they never broke up but Betsy went to stay with her best friend for a week and they never contacted one another.
An overview, Wes and his children moved back to his small town after his wife up and leave them when he finally decide to retire from football. Then he met Betsy who is the temporary tenant of his parents and hired her to be his kids (11,8,6) nanny. They're already attracted to one another the first time they met but never acted on it, because up to 41% of the book he's still legally married, and it's only been two months since they separate. But of course, once the divorce was finalized readers knew they would end up together eventually.
The story is an okay read for me. Wes and Betsy are cute together, their moments with the children are adorable and sweet. She's the mom they never knew they needed. And Betsy has been a supportive nanny/friend/pseudo-mom to these kids.
But for the life of me I just can't believe how they quickly jumped into this relationship. You see, his ex-wife had already left them for a month before he and his kids visited his parents. This is where he saw Betsy and was attracted to her instantly. Then another 2 or 3 weeks passed before he and his children finally move back to his hometown. I think another week had passed before he finally hired Betsy to be his kids nanny. By this time around, he has known Betsy for a month already (but barely interact with her) and he and his future ex-wife is 2 months separated since.
Another week had passed and the divorce was finalized, he and his friends celebrated his freedom. They got drunk in his house and that night too was the first time Wes and Betsy shared a kiss. I mean, the ink is barely dry and for some reason this doesn't sit well with me. He was drunk, angry, and hurting and although I know he's attracted to her, I think he own it to himself to sort out first the next steps for him and his kids now that he's divorced. I'm also annoyed with Betsy because she should know better to stop that kiss before it even happened. He was drunk and she was not, she should know not to take advantage of his current state (not that she did, but still). But no, she let her hormones takes over her common sense. Though she pulled back after a few minutes of making out, this still pissed the crap out of me.
I don't even know Wes true feelings, he said he was hurt and angry that his ex-wife left them like she didn't care about the life they made together. He said that she was no longer the sweet woman he married 12 years ago and as years go by, she slowly changed into someone he doesn't recognize anymore. Maybe he's not in love with her anymore but I still think that it's way too soon for him to start anything with anyone, because honestly he's an emotional mess. He's still not fully grasping the fact that his marriage ended and he never dealt with his feelings regarding this divorce. He's an utter mess inside, and seriously, he needs to figure out a lot of things and probably some therapy.
I just can't understand the speedy progress between them, it's just so unbelievable. How can a person with so much baggage after that divorce could even consider to be in a relationship? At the back of my mind, sometimes I think it's a rebound thing for Wes. But based on the story it was different from what he had with his ex-wife. Still, I just couldn't buy it.
Though I have to say once they finally told the closest people to them about their relationship. These two are very committed to one another. Wes relationship with his children is so heartwarming to read. I also loved the fact that they are good kids who knows respect and openly accept Betsy in their lives.
Overall, this is still an okay read. Aside from my issue that it's way too fast for Wes to jump in to another relationship, I think this is still entertaining. Even his three best friends are comical. Side characters in a small town romance does really make a huge addition to the story.
Anywaaaaay, that's too much ramblings.
- Wes, 35, football player
- Betsy, 29, nanny
Book info:
- No cheating, OPD
- Non-third act breakup (see notes below)
- Single dad - nanny romance
- Small town romance
- Standalone
- Found family
- HFN (living together)
Notes:
- The ex-wife appeared at the beginning and at the day of signing the divorce papers. She didn't cause any drama, but when Betsy brought the kids to her, she made some snide remarks on Betsy's body. Which she wasn't having any of, so instead of choosing the high ground, Betsy went low too and gave her a taste of her own medicine. 😅
- For the non-third act breakup, Betsy's dad arranged an interview for her, but she doesn't want that job. Then Wes found out this interview and all the toxic things his ex told him about him holding her back suddenly made him think that he was doing the same with Betsy. That's why he pushed her to go to the interview. This is their first and only fight in this book, they never broke up but Betsy went to stay with her best friend for a week and they never contacted one another.
An overview, Wes and his children moved back to his small town after his wife up and leave them when he finally decide to retire from football. Then he met Betsy who is the temporary tenant of his parents and hired her to be his kids (11,8,6) nanny. They're already attracted to one another the first time they met but never acted on it, because up to 41% of the book he's still legally married, and it's only been two months since they separate. But of course, once the divorce was finalized readers knew they would end up together eventually.
The story is an okay read for me. Wes and Betsy are cute together, their moments with the children are adorable and sweet. She's the mom they never knew they needed. And Betsy has been a supportive nanny/friend/pseudo-mom to these kids.
But for the life of me I just can't believe how they quickly jumped into this relationship. You see, his ex-wife had already left them for a month before he and his kids visited his parents. This is where he saw Betsy and was attracted to her instantly. Then another 2 or 3 weeks passed before he and his children finally move back to his hometown. I think another week had passed before he finally hired Betsy to be his kids nanny. By this time around, he has known Betsy for a month already (but barely interact with her) and he and his future ex-wife is 2 months separated since.
Another week had passed and the divorce was finalized, he and his friends celebrated his freedom. They got drunk in his house and that night too was the first time Wes and Betsy shared a kiss. I mean, the ink is barely dry and for some reason this doesn't sit well with me. He was drunk, angry, and hurting and although I know he's attracted to her, I think he own it to himself to sort out first the next steps for him and his kids now that he's divorced. I'm also annoyed with Betsy because she should know better to stop that kiss before it even happened. He was drunk and she was not, she should know not to take advantage of his current state (not that she did, but still). But no, she let her hormones takes over her common sense. Though she pulled back after a few minutes of making out, this still pissed the crap out of me.
I don't even know Wes true feelings, he said he was hurt and angry that his ex-wife left them like she didn't care about the life they made together. He said that she was no longer the sweet woman he married 12 years ago and as years go by, she slowly changed into someone he doesn't recognize anymore. Maybe he's not in love with her anymore but I still think that it's way too soon for him to start anything with anyone, because honestly he's an emotional mess. He's still not fully grasping the fact that his marriage ended and he never dealt with his feelings regarding this divorce. He's an utter mess inside, and seriously, he needs to figure out a lot of things and probably some therapy.
I just can't understand the speedy progress between them, it's just so unbelievable. How can a person with so much baggage after that divorce could even consider to be in a relationship? At the back of my mind, sometimes I think it's a rebound thing for Wes. But based on the story it was different from what he had with his ex-wife. Still, I just couldn't buy it.
Though I have to say once they finally told the closest people to them about their relationship. These two are very committed to one another. Wes relationship with his children is so heartwarming to read. I also loved the fact that they are good kids who knows respect and openly accept Betsy in their lives.
Overall, this is still an okay read. Aside from my issue that it's way too fast for Wes to jump in to another relationship, I think this is still entertaining. Even his three best friends are comical. Side characters in a small town romance does really make a huge addition to the story.
Anywaaaaay, that's too much ramblings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2023
I don’t think I have ever rooted for a family’s HEA as much as I did for Betsy, Wes, and three most adorable kids ever. I immediately fell in love with Wes and Betsy, but OMG Mags, Emerson, and Hank - be still my momma heart! By far the best book yet in the Rolling Hills/Fury universe! I can’t wait for Oliver’s story next
This book had me laughing, crying, cursing the villain, and rooting so much for the main couple. I couldn’t put it down- who needs sleep anyway! This is definitely worth a read and dare I say, worth skipping it to the top of your TBR list!
I received an ARC in return for an honest review. Honestly, it’s an excellent read. Be prepared to fall in love with a whole family!
This book had me laughing, crying, cursing the villain, and rooting so much for the main couple. I couldn’t put it down- who needs sleep anyway! This is definitely worth a read and dare I say, worth skipping it to the top of your TBR list!
I received an ARC in return for an honest review. Honestly, it’s an excellent read. Be prepared to fall in love with a whole family!
Read
May 18, 2023The One I Want is live! This single dad, nanny, age gap, romance kicks off a new small town series set in the small town of Rolling Hills Tennessee. Ebook and paperback live. Free to read with Kindle Unlimited. Alternate paperbacks coming soon!
October 4, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5
The One I Want was such a sweet single dad, nanny romance. This was my first Chelle Sloan book, and I just fell for this football dad and his three perfect kids.
This started out differently than I expected with a single dad/nanny romance since he was married in the opening. Wes is a successful pro football star ready for retirement. He has been married to his college girlfriend for years, but he is completely blindsided when she wants a divorce and leaves him and their kids. He decides to move back to his hometown for a fresh start and support. He meets his parents' curvy and sassy new neighbor, and she builds an immediate connection with his 3 kids. He realizes he needs more help with the kids during his last season of football and asks her to be the nanny.
Wes and Betsy have great banter, and you could feel their chemistry, but it was not the best timing. Wes just got divorced, and now she was working for him. Of course, they were not able to deny their connection for long. I absolutely loved how Chelle Sloan showed their relationship after they got together. The 3rd act conflict was realistic and needed for the issues Wes had from his horrible ex-wife.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Chris Chambers and Stephanie Rose did a great job bringing the amazing banter, chemistry, and doing the kids' voices. I loved how the kids were represented by the narrators. I flew through this book in one sitting and would highly recommend it.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ALC.
🌶️🌶️.5
The One I Want was such a sweet single dad, nanny romance. This was my first Chelle Sloan book, and I just fell for this football dad and his three perfect kids.
This started out differently than I expected with a single dad/nanny romance since he was married in the opening. Wes is a successful pro football star ready for retirement. He has been married to his college girlfriend for years, but he is completely blindsided when she wants a divorce and leaves him and their kids. He decides to move back to his hometown for a fresh start and support. He meets his parents' curvy and sassy new neighbor, and she builds an immediate connection with his 3 kids. He realizes he needs more help with the kids during his last season of football and asks her to be the nanny.
Wes and Betsy have great banter, and you could feel their chemistry, but it was not the best timing. Wes just got divorced, and now she was working for him. Of course, they were not able to deny their connection for long. I absolutely loved how Chelle Sloan showed their relationship after they got together. The 3rd act conflict was realistic and needed for the issues Wes had from his horrible ex-wife.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Chris Chambers and Stephanie Rose did a great job bringing the amazing banter, chemistry, and doing the kids' voices. I loved how the kids were represented by the narrators. I flew through this book in one sitting and would highly recommend it.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ALC.
October 2, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ALC of The One I Want by Chelle Sloan. This is book #1 in the Rolling Hills series.
I’m not a huge contemporary romance girlie, but I needed a football romance for the Fall Bookish Bingo challenge I’m in with some book besties on Instagram. So when I saw the opportunity for this ARC and that the author was a former sports writer, I figured I would give it a shot. And I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this audiobook.
The MMC, Wes is a professional football player and father of 3, whose life gets turned upside down after coming home from a press conference where he announces his retirement after the current season, to find his wife - all her bags are packed, she is moving out, and she wants a divorce.
Now Wes is a single dad and with limited childcare options, he is convinced by his best friends to move back to their hometown of Rolling Hills. It’s there that he meets Betsy Sullivan, who changes his life - and his kids lives - forever.
When reading this book, you can expect:
- Small town
- Football player MMC
- Forced proximity
- Second chance
- Single dad
- Rom-com
- Age gap
- Found family
- Cinnamon roll MMC
Beyond the cuteness of this story, the best part for me was the cast of characters surrounding the MCs. Wes’ best friends - Amelia, Shane, Oliver and Simon are hilarious and all have their own stories in the Rolling Hills series. Book #2 - The One I Need centers around Oliver - a man who wants to find love so bad, he ends up prosing to almost every woman he dates. The One I Want ends with him taking a last minute trip to Vegas. I have a feeling this one is going to be amazing, so you KNOW I signed up for the ALC of that one.
Is this book cutesie and a little cheesy? Absolutely, it was a Rom-com! But it was a quick read, entertaining, a little spicy, and hooked me to find out what happens to the rest of the Rolling Hills gang.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Chelle Sloan for selecting me for this ALC. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Oliver and the rest of the crew!
I’m not a huge contemporary romance girlie, but I needed a football romance for the Fall Bookish Bingo challenge I’m in with some book besties on Instagram. So when I saw the opportunity for this ARC and that the author was a former sports writer, I figured I would give it a shot. And I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this audiobook.
The MMC, Wes is a professional football player and father of 3, whose life gets turned upside down after coming home from a press conference where he announces his retirement after the current season, to find his wife - all her bags are packed, she is moving out, and she wants a divorce.
Now Wes is a single dad and with limited childcare options, he is convinced by his best friends to move back to their hometown of Rolling Hills. It’s there that he meets Betsy Sullivan, who changes his life - and his kids lives - forever.
When reading this book, you can expect:
- Small town
- Football player MMC
- Forced proximity
- Second chance
- Single dad
- Rom-com
- Age gap
- Found family
- Cinnamon roll MMC
Beyond the cuteness of this story, the best part for me was the cast of characters surrounding the MCs. Wes’ best friends - Amelia, Shane, Oliver and Simon are hilarious and all have their own stories in the Rolling Hills series. Book #2 - The One I Need centers around Oliver - a man who wants to find love so bad, he ends up prosing to almost every woman he dates. The One I Want ends with him taking a last minute trip to Vegas. I have a feeling this one is going to be amazing, so you KNOW I signed up for the ALC of that one.
Is this book cutesie and a little cheesy? Absolutely, it was a Rom-com! But it was a quick read, entertaining, a little spicy, and hooked me to find out what happens to the rest of the Rolling Hills gang.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Chelle Sloan for selecting me for this ALC. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Oliver and the rest of the crew!
January 22, 2024
I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
WHY AM I JUST LEARNING ABOUT CHELLE SLOAN NOW!?!?! OMG I absolutely loved this book!
This book follows Betsy (also love this character name...don't often see it) and Wes. Betsy is a carefree person, who is moving to Rolling Hills to be close to her bff and try and find her place in the world. Wes is recently divorced, in his last NFL season, moving back to his hometown, and has 3 little kids that are absolute perfection.
Betsy ends up being Wes' parents neighbor/renter and needs a job. She has immediate chemistry with all 3 of his kids so he decides to ask her to be his nanny.
This is a sweet, charming romance that is full of heart. These characters stole my heart, the kids were my favorite. I loved the small-town setting and the sense of community and family. It’s funny and light-hearted but also touching and emotional.
Tropes:
Single Dad x Nanny
Age Gap
Overall: 5
Spice: 2.5
WHY AM I JUST LEARNING ABOUT CHELLE SLOAN NOW!?!?! OMG I absolutely loved this book!
This book follows Betsy (also love this character name...don't often see it) and Wes. Betsy is a carefree person, who is moving to Rolling Hills to be close to her bff and try and find her place in the world. Wes is recently divorced, in his last NFL season, moving back to his hometown, and has 3 little kids that are absolute perfection.
Betsy ends up being Wes' parents neighbor/renter and needs a job. She has immediate chemistry with all 3 of his kids so he decides to ask her to be his nanny.
This is a sweet, charming romance that is full of heart. These characters stole my heart, the kids were my favorite. I loved the small-town setting and the sense of community and family. It’s funny and light-hearted but also touching and emotional.
Tropes:
Single Dad x Nanny
Age Gap
Overall: 5
Spice: 2.5
Read
August 1, 2023Okay this was super fun. The first sports romance book to hold my attention in a very long time!
May 15, 2023
I read an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Between wanting to write a review halfway through because I was enjoying it so much and finishing the book in one day, I think you can see what I honestly think!
Not gonna lie...a pro football hero and a former beauty queen are not always my favorite characters. They're just not always relatable. I was surprised by my own incorrect assumptions! (Just like a character in this book!) I was only a few pages into it and I was loving these people! Wes and Betsy, the kids, all the main characters! I wanted to live near them and be part of their circle!
The romance was sweet and sexy, and hot, and did I say HOT?! But it wasn't just gratuitous steamy scenes for spice sake. It fit into the storyline in perfect measure.
I've enjoyed Chelle Sloan's books before but I think this is my favorite so far!
And I can't wait for the next one...Chelle, prove me wrong! Maybe that will be my NEW favorite but until then, Wes and Betsy for the win!
Between wanting to write a review halfway through because I was enjoying it so much and finishing the book in one day, I think you can see what I honestly think!
Not gonna lie...a pro football hero and a former beauty queen are not always my favorite characters. They're just not always relatable. I was surprised by my own incorrect assumptions! (Just like a character in this book!) I was only a few pages into it and I was loving these people! Wes and Betsy, the kids, all the main characters! I wanted to live near them and be part of their circle!
The romance was sweet and sexy, and hot, and did I say HOT?! But it wasn't just gratuitous steamy scenes for spice sake. It fit into the storyline in perfect measure.
I've enjoyed Chelle Sloan's books before but I think this is my favorite so far!
And I can't wait for the next one...Chelle, prove me wrong! Maybe that will be my NEW favorite but until then, Wes and Betsy for the win!
May 17, 2023
Another fantastic, witty, and relatable story coming from Chelle Sloan. If you ever have seen her on TikTok, you will see those amazing, fun, and charming qualities woven into her characters and her stories.
The One I Want is a great story in the Rolling Hills gang. This book is standalone, but do get the back story of how this story and this world is shaped, you can read Thirst Trap and the Nashville Fury Series of Chelle's.
Let's just get to it: WES!! Our newest book boyfriend in his gray sweatpants. I can just see the TikToks of Wes now LOL! You can't help but fall further in love with him as you dive into this book. I have never wanted a HEA more than I wanted for Wes, Betsy, and the kiddos!
I don't want to say too much other than once you start this story you won't want to put it down. It's not too angsty, yet there are definitely moments you want to throat punch certain characters. Chelle's witty writing will make you feel all the feels. I laughed out loud and just loved the journey.
Note: I did receive an ARC for my honest review.
The One I Want is a great story in the Rolling Hills gang. This book is standalone, but do get the back story of how this story and this world is shaped, you can read Thirst Trap and the Nashville Fury Series of Chelle's.
Let's just get to it: WES!! Our newest book boyfriend in his gray sweatpants. I can just see the TikToks of Wes now LOL! You can't help but fall further in love with him as you dive into this book. I have never wanted a HEA more than I wanted for Wes, Betsy, and the kiddos!
I don't want to say too much other than once you start this story you won't want to put it down. It's not too angsty, yet there are definitely moments you want to throat punch certain characters. Chelle's witty writing will make you feel all the feels. I laughed out loud and just loved the journey.
Note: I did receive an ARC for my honest review.
October 10, 2024
Absolutely loved this ❤️ Wes and Betsey we so cute. The chemistry was off the charts. The kids were adorable and hilarious.... this was great all around. Highly recommend ❤️
May 23, 2023
Loved this and can’t wait to read more from Chelle! 💕🙌🏼
May 14, 2023
This has everything I love in an exceptional romcom – the trash talk between friends who are closer than brothers and always have your back, small-town charm and quirks, and clever banter and sparkling chemistry between the hero and heroine. Add in three adorable kids, fake southern charm and a mean girl to the mix, and I’m done. It’s my first romance from this talented storyteller and I’m a new fan for life!
Wes Taylor had it all. A great football career, fame and fortune, and a wife and three children who were his world. Until he decided to retire from football and his wife walked out on him and his children. So he takes his kids and moves back to his small home town, knowing that having family close will help his children adjust to their new normal without their mother.
What he doesn’t expect is his parent's neighbor, Betsy Sullivan. His younger daughter connects with Betsy immediately, his son adores her completely, and Betsy has a way of reaching his older daughter who's to old and wise for her age. Wes knows he needs to hire a nanny to help his family get through the end of the football season, and Betsy is a natural choice.
Betsy has failed at every job she ever had, and she's had a lot of them. But there's something about the Taylor children that bring out the protector and defender in her, and she'll do anything to help ease their loss and make them smile. Her attraction to their father is a dangerous thing however, because, if acted on, it could destroy her relationship with his children, something she values above all else.
This sweet, charming romance is full of heart, with just the right amount of angst, and these characters effortlessly stole my heart. I love the small-town setting and the sense of community and family. It’s funny and light-hearted but touching and emotional, and you won’t want to miss a second of this delightful, phenomenal, full-of-feels romance.
Wes Taylor had it all. A great football career, fame and fortune, and a wife and three children who were his world. Until he decided to retire from football and his wife walked out on him and his children. So he takes his kids and moves back to his small home town, knowing that having family close will help his children adjust to their new normal without their mother.
What he doesn’t expect is his parent's neighbor, Betsy Sullivan. His younger daughter connects with Betsy immediately, his son adores her completely, and Betsy has a way of reaching his older daughter who's to old and wise for her age. Wes knows he needs to hire a nanny to help his family get through the end of the football season, and Betsy is a natural choice.
Betsy has failed at every job she ever had, and she's had a lot of them. But there's something about the Taylor children that bring out the protector and defender in her, and she'll do anything to help ease their loss and make them smile. Her attraction to their father is a dangerous thing however, because, if acted on, it could destroy her relationship with his children, something she values above all else.
This sweet, charming romance is full of heart, with just the right amount of angst, and these characters effortlessly stole my heart. I love the small-town setting and the sense of community and family. It’s funny and light-hearted but touching and emotional, and you won’t want to miss a second of this delightful, phenomenal, full-of-feels romance.
August 26, 2024
Wes comes home from announcing his retirement from professional football to find his wife packing her bags and leaving him. She doesn't want the kids or anything to do with him, she is done. Wes is taken by surprise and left to pick up the pieces. Turning to the help of friends and family he decides to move back to the town he grew up in, so it is easier to get the help he needs. Knowing he can't continue to rely only on family, he hires a nanny, Betsy. Betsy is undeniably attractive, but as Wes sees her with his kids more and more feelings develop. They both agree that they cannot get involved, for the kids and the mess a break-up could cause.
I loved Betsy. She came off as a bit chaotic, but her love and devotion to Wes's three kids were amazing. She gave them exactly what they needed and built them up strong. I did struggle a bit with Wes, he was completely blindsided with his divorce and that left some trauma. He transferred some of his feelings of being abandoned onto Betsy and that was not fair to her. It was clear why he did that, but unfair to Betsy. That said, these two seemed to be great for each other. They were what the other needed where they were in their lives. Wes gave Betsy unconditional love, and family while Betsy broke him out of his stress bubble.
I never thought I could hate the ex-wife as much as I did. She not only abandoned her husband by blindsiding him but left her kids and moved to another state. She barely had any contact with them. My heart ached for these poor little ones. That said, Betsy was amazing for them! She brought out the best in each of them.
This was such a heartfelt romance that was full of laughter, pain and healing. I love that we got to meet the future characters of the other books and can't wait to read them!
Read if you like: single dad/nanny, football, found family
I loved Betsy. She came off as a bit chaotic, but her love and devotion to Wes's three kids were amazing. She gave them exactly what they needed and built them up strong. I did struggle a bit with Wes, he was completely blindsided with his divorce and that left some trauma. He transferred some of his feelings of being abandoned onto Betsy and that was not fair to her. It was clear why he did that, but unfair to Betsy. That said, these two seemed to be great for each other. They were what the other needed where they were in their lives. Wes gave Betsy unconditional love, and family while Betsy broke him out of his stress bubble.
I never thought I could hate the ex-wife as much as I did. She not only abandoned her husband by blindsiding him but left her kids and moved to another state. She barely had any contact with them. My heart ached for these poor little ones. That said, Betsy was amazing for them! She brought out the best in each of them.
This was such a heartfelt romance that was full of laughter, pain and healing. I love that we got to meet the future characters of the other books and can't wait to read them!
Read if you like: single dad/nanny, football, found family
May 15, 2023
A woman who has yet to find her niche in this world and a man who just had his world turned upside down, find out life has a way of bringing the right person into your world at the right time.
Both with fears and scared of the unknown, find each other to make their HEA. Wes and Betsy take a leap and find out they both can have happiness after being lost. The chemistry was intense with these two, but just as amazing was the chemistry between Betsy and his 3 children who were abandoned by their mother. The instant connection with the kids was giving me those stabbing feelings in my chest… the good ones.
The good times and the rough times have you not wanting to put this book down. Not to mention, Betsy is fire and I want her in my corner! I loved every second of this small town, single dad, football player romance. A spitfire of a southern beauty queen, 3 amazingly strong and resilient kids, hilarious friends, matchmaking mother and throw in a crazy ex, it’s absolutely my cup of tea.
Both with fears and scared of the unknown, find each other to make their HEA. Wes and Betsy take a leap and find out they both can have happiness after being lost. The chemistry was intense with these two, but just as amazing was the chemistry between Betsy and his 3 children who were abandoned by their mother. The instant connection with the kids was giving me those stabbing feelings in my chest… the good ones.
The good times and the rough times have you not wanting to put this book down. Not to mention, Betsy is fire and I want her in my corner! I loved every second of this small town, single dad, football player romance. A spitfire of a southern beauty queen, 3 amazingly strong and resilient kids, hilarious friends, matchmaking mother and throw in a crazy ex, it’s absolutely my cup of tea.
October 15, 2024
Chelle Sloan is one of my favorite authors, her books keep getting better somehow. I've read everything she's written so far, and I love how characters from other books are still involved and pop up from time to time. This one was so good because it was real. No over the top plot twists, no craziness that would never happen in real life. I could legitimately relate or understand the why's and the how's. The kids were fantastic, I adored them all. Yes it's listed as age gap, but it's not icky at all. Wes was such a great, flawed character, I loved him. Again, real. Betsy was so fun, kind of a mess, but so lovable. I loved watching all the pieces click into place. Highly recommend this, and anything else Chelle Sloan that you can get your hands on.
I listened to the audio, and I forgot how much I love Betsy! This narrator was the perfect choice for her. I truly enjoyed this just as much the second time around
I listened to the audio, and I forgot how much I love Betsy! This narrator was the perfect choice for her. I truly enjoyed this just as much the second time around
March 10, 2024
Chelle Sloan has become one of my favorite authors. She creates characters that are relatable and fun, complex and complicated, and can write a heck of plot! The One I Want is the beginning of a new series, set in Rolling Hills, Tennessee, spinning off of Thirst Trap.
Wes is retiring from football. And the day he announces it, he is blown another hit because his wife leaves him and their kids. Needless to say, he needs some help, and it comes in the form of Betsy, Wes's parent's new neighbor, who hits it off with the kids right away. To be fair, Wes and Betsy certainly hit it off from the beginning, as well! And while it doesn't seem to be the right time for them, some things are out of our control.
I absolutely loved Wes and Betsy! Wes is the epitome of what you hope a father would be, and that translates over to his relationship with Betsy, as well. I can't wait for more set in Rolling Hills!
Wes is retiring from football. And the day he announces it, he is blown another hit because his wife leaves him and their kids. Needless to say, he needs some help, and it comes in the form of Betsy, Wes's parent's new neighbor, who hits it off with the kids right away. To be fair, Wes and Betsy certainly hit it off from the beginning, as well! And while it doesn't seem to be the right time for them, some things are out of our control.
I absolutely loved Wes and Betsy! Wes is the epitome of what you hope a father would be, and that translates over to his relationship with Betsy, as well. I can't wait for more set in Rolling Hills!
January 24, 2024
This was a first book author for me and she was hysterical!
This book is the first book in the series. We follow Wes and Betsy.
Wes is in his last football season and is retiring after. His wife ups and leaves him and their kids. He knows he needs help so he moves from Nashville back to his hometown, Rolling Hills.
Betsy is trying to find her life path. Job after job, she doesn’t know where she belongs. She moves to Rolling Hills to be close to her best friend.
Betsy’s rental is next to door to her landlords. She also loves them and comes to love their grandkids. She also thinks their dad is so cute! Wes is in desperate need of need of a nanny and he asks Betsy. Betsy ends up being a perfect fit for his kiddos. She also becomes a perfect fit for Wes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Single Dad
NFL Athlete
Close Family
Small Town
Nanny
This book is the first book in the series. We follow Wes and Betsy.
Wes is in his last football season and is retiring after. His wife ups and leaves him and their kids. He knows he needs help so he moves from Nashville back to his hometown, Rolling Hills.
Betsy is trying to find her life path. Job after job, she doesn’t know where she belongs. She moves to Rolling Hills to be close to her best friend.
Betsy’s rental is next to door to her landlords. She also loves them and comes to love their grandkids. She also thinks their dad is so cute! Wes is in desperate need of need of a nanny and he asks Betsy. Betsy ends up being a perfect fit for his kiddos. She also becomes a perfect fit for Wes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Single Dad
NFL Athlete
Close Family
Small Town
Nanny
September 23, 2025
I always enjoy a good sports romance, and this one did not disappoint! I loved rooting for this single dad and his kids—there was such a great balance of heart, family, and swoony romance. The characters felt real and the storyline had me invested from start to finish. A sweet, feel-good read that kept me smiling all the way through.
July 22, 2025
This was my first book by Chelle Sloan and it did not disappoint. I’m in love with this series. I’ll also be checking out her backlog.
Takeaways:
Wes & Betsy (and Mags, Hank, Emerson) forever!
Childhood friends for the win
Nanny
Football
Unlikable ex-wife
Hilarious
Community
One set of supportive loving parents
One set of parents NOT so much
Spice level 1.5 / 5
Takeaways:
Wes & Betsy (and Mags, Hank, Emerson) forever!
Childhood friends for the win
Nanny
Football
Unlikable ex-wife
Hilarious
Community
One set of supportive loving parents
One set of parents NOT so much
Spice level 1.5 / 5
December 30, 2024
Can’t wait to read the rest of this series! ❤️
August 27, 2024
3.5* didn’t dislike it but didn’t blow me away! Absolutely loved the characters but felt like there could be more depth within the story. Felt like it was missing something but overall a nice read.
June 30, 2023
I couldn't love these characters more!
Betsy feels like she is a screw up. She can't hold down a real job or relationship and got cut off from her parents. She decided to move to the small town her best friend lives in. Before she knows it she makes friends with 3 adorable kids! And the single father that goes with them is pretty spectacular also! Wes is an almost retired football player who just got left by his money grubby wife. The easy friendship between the kids and Betsy makes her the easy choice as the new nanny! The thing they didn't see coming was how much joy she would bring to their lives. She was their sunshine! Read if you want to get sucked in by the wonderful kids and the nanny who is more like a momma bear who will do everything she can to protect their hearts. And dont forget about the man who tried to guard his heart but didnt stand a chance with the nanny. Wes and Betsy are the cutest couple and I want more! Guess I will have to read the second book in the series when it comes out!
Betsy feels like she is a screw up. She can't hold down a real job or relationship and got cut off from her parents. She decided to move to the small town her best friend lives in. Before she knows it she makes friends with 3 adorable kids! And the single father that goes with them is pretty spectacular also! Wes is an almost retired football player who just got left by his money grubby wife. The easy friendship between the kids and Betsy makes her the easy choice as the new nanny! The thing they didn't see coming was how much joy she would bring to their lives. She was their sunshine! Read if you want to get sucked in by the wonderful kids and the nanny who is more like a momma bear who will do everything she can to protect their hearts. And dont forget about the man who tried to guard his heart but didnt stand a chance with the nanny. Wes and Betsy are the cutest couple and I want more! Guess I will have to read the second book in the series when it comes out!
August 12, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
✨Small Town
✨Football Romance
✨Single Dad
✨Nanny
•Dual POV
•Standalone
I absolutely loved this book! It was the perfect slow burn with the single dad + nanny! 😍🔥
Betsy moves to town to start fresh and find a new job. She meets Wes, who is currently going through a divorce and moving back home to the same small town. Wes has three kids and is struggling to care for them on his own, while he is still playing football. He asks Betsy to be their nanny and she agrees. Betsy and his kids get along so well and they all lean on one another. Along the way, lines are blurred as Betsy & Wes start to feel more towards one another.
I loved these two MMCs. I loved that Betsy was always herself. She has been through a lot of jobs, but despite that she keeps on trying. It’s also beautiful to see the way she loves those three kids. Wes is the ultimate sexy single dad and truly cares for his kids. He does everything to make sure they are safe and comfortable after what happens with his ex-wife and I love that so much!🫶🏻
I can’t wait for Oliver’s book! 😍
🌶️🌶️.5
✨Small Town
✨Football Romance
✨Single Dad
✨Nanny
•Dual POV
•Standalone
I absolutely loved this book! It was the perfect slow burn with the single dad + nanny! 😍🔥
Betsy moves to town to start fresh and find a new job. She meets Wes, who is currently going through a divorce and moving back home to the same small town. Wes has three kids and is struggling to care for them on his own, while he is still playing football. He asks Betsy to be their nanny and she agrees. Betsy and his kids get along so well and they all lean on one another. Along the way, lines are blurred as Betsy & Wes start to feel more towards one another.
I loved these two MMCs. I loved that Betsy was always herself. She has been through a lot of jobs, but despite that she keeps on trying. It’s also beautiful to see the way she loves those three kids. Wes is the ultimate sexy single dad and truly cares for his kids. He does everything to make sure they are safe and comfortable after what happens with his ex-wife and I love that so much!🫶🏻
I can’t wait for Oliver’s book! 😍
May 18, 2023
Her best yet!
Chelle Sloan has kicked off this small town romance with Wes, a football player who is retiring at the top of his game. There’s just one thing: his wife is leaving. Not just him, but their 3 kids, too. He decides to move back to his hometown, and he’s looking for someone to help take care of the kids.
Betsy is at loose ends, not really knowing what she wants to do with her life. She does know that she’s gotta get out of Birmingham, and out from under her parents thumb. She moves into a rental next door to Wes’s parents house, and that’s where she meets his adorable kids.
Sparks fly pretty quickly when Betsy takes the job taking care of Wes’s kids. The path to HEA isn’t without challenges, but I haven’t rooted for a couple like this in a long time. Highly recommend!
Chelle Sloan has kicked off this small town romance with Wes, a football player who is retiring at the top of his game. There’s just one thing: his wife is leaving. Not just him, but their 3 kids, too. He decides to move back to his hometown, and he’s looking for someone to help take care of the kids.
Betsy is at loose ends, not really knowing what she wants to do with her life. She does know that she’s gotta get out of Birmingham, and out from under her parents thumb. She moves into a rental next door to Wes’s parents house, and that’s where she meets his adorable kids.
Sparks fly pretty quickly when Betsy takes the job taking care of Wes’s kids. The path to HEA isn’t without challenges, but I haven’t rooted for a couple like this in a long time. Highly recommend!
May 13, 2023
With each word read you feel how much Chelle Sloan loved writing this story and these characters! From swoony Wes, to confident & sassy Betsy (even with her hot mess moments), to the bundle of energy you feel of Magnolia, to the cute and sweet Hank, to the organized and so grown up Emerson! I laughed out loud and had tears streaming down my face so many times throughout their story, from those sweet moments and moments of triumph! I think every pre-teen needs a Betsy in their life and we all need a little Emerson in our life! This book was a true joy to read and hit so many great points for me. This book is at the top of my recommendations for 2023
March 4, 2024
Wes has just had his life turn upside down with his wife leaving and walking out on him and the kids months before his last season is supposed to finish.
He moved back to his hometown to be near friends and family who could help out. But he still needs help with other things. Enter Betsy. She's the new Nanny. The kids love her. She's great with them.
Betsy is a carefree person who hasn't found her place in the world yet. So she decides to take the nanny position because, why not? She enjoys being around the kids, and they like being around her. Wes is still trying to finalise his divorce, so he feels he shouldn't be having the thoughts he does for Betsy. They are both attracted to each other, you can tell in the way they hold each other's gaze.
This is really well done, and Betsy is written so well that I can almost hear her southern twang in my head. Betsy is a confident, self-assured woman. The words flow nicely, and the familiarity with Wes' friends is also well done. I love the kids and their different personalities. I feel for Em as she's older than the other two, so this is going to hit her, and she's eventually going to break down.
This is a story of an NFL player on the cusp of retirement, with 3 kids going through a divorce. It's written so eloquently that I feel the angst at what Wes is going through. Juggling a demanding job and trying to be as present as he can be. Both he and Betsy are responsible and trying not to do anything that will upset the kids at the moment. They have grown attached to her, so I can imagine they'd think she'd abandoned them too if things didn't work out with Wes. Betsy puts on a strong front. Deep down, though, she wants someone to love her.
This is a story about 3 kids whose mother left them without a goodbye. It's about a family trying to make it through this new reality, and with Betsy, it has been easier. And when she receives a text, it sets off all of Wes' insecurities and his own abandonment issues. Being with someone for so long and they up and leave would be very hard to just 'get over', so he lashed out and said some hurtful things.
I love that this story felt like a biography and how they managed through this difficult part of their lives. It felt very real, and I could imagine things like this happened all too often in situations like this. Whilst the situation isn't exactly the same, I could feel myself relate to those feelings of having to start over when your whole life has just been upended.
The kids absolutely made this story, and I loved the close friendship that the 4 amigos had! This is one of those stories that once you pass the turmoil and angst, it's a feel-good story of love and moving forward, really well done and a pleasure to read.
Merged review:
Wes has just had his life turn upside down with his wife leaving and walking out on him and the kids months before his last season is supposed to finish.
He moved back to his hometown to be near friends and family who could help out. But he still needs help with other things. Enter Betsy. She's the new Nanny. The kids love her. She's great with them.
Betsy is a carefree person who hasn't found her place in the world yet. So she decides to take the nanny position because, why not? She enjoys being around the kids, and they like being around her. Wes is still trying to finalise his divorce, so he feels he shouldn't be having the thoughts he does for Betsy. They are both attracted to each other, you can tell in the way they hold each other's gaze.
This is really well done, and Betsy is written so well that I can almost hear her southern twang in my head. Betsy is a confident, self-assured woman. The words flow nicely, and the familiarity with Wes' friends is also well done. I love the kids and their different personalities. I feel for Em as she's older than the other two, so this is going to hit her, and she's eventually going to break down.
This is a story of an NFL player on the cusp of retirement, with 3 kids going through a divorce. It's written so eloquently that I feel the angst at what Wes is going through. Juggling a demanding job and trying to be as present as he can be. Both he and Betsy are responsible and trying not to do anything that will upset the kids at the moment. They have grown attached to her, so I can imagine they'd think she'd abandoned them too if things didn't work out with Wes. Betsy puts on a strong front. Deep down, though, she wants someone to love her.
This is a story about 3 kids whose mother left them without a goodbye. It's about a family trying to make it through this new reality, and with Betsy, it has been easier. And when she receives a text, it sets off all of Wes' insecurities and his own abandonment issues. Being with someone for so long and they up and leave would be very hard to just 'get over', so he lashed out and said some hurtful things.
I love that this story felt like a biography and how they managed through this difficult part of their lives. It felt very real, and I could imagine things like this happened all too often in situations like this. Whilst the situation isn't exactly the same, I could feel myself relate to those feelings of having to start over when your whole life has just been upended.
The kids absolutely made this story, and I loved the close friendship that the 4 amigos had! This is one of those stories that once you pass the turmoil and angst, it's a feel-good story of love and moving forward, really well done and a pleasure to read.
He moved back to his hometown to be near friends and family who could help out. But he still needs help with other things. Enter Betsy. She's the new Nanny. The kids love her. She's great with them.
Betsy is a carefree person who hasn't found her place in the world yet. So she decides to take the nanny position because, why not? She enjoys being around the kids, and they like being around her. Wes is still trying to finalise his divorce, so he feels he shouldn't be having the thoughts he does for Betsy. They are both attracted to each other, you can tell in the way they hold each other's gaze.
This is really well done, and Betsy is written so well that I can almost hear her southern twang in my head. Betsy is a confident, self-assured woman. The words flow nicely, and the familiarity with Wes' friends is also well done. I love the kids and their different personalities. I feel for Em as she's older than the other two, so this is going to hit her, and she's eventually going to break down.
This is a story of an NFL player on the cusp of retirement, with 3 kids going through a divorce. It's written so eloquently that I feel the angst at what Wes is going through. Juggling a demanding job and trying to be as present as he can be. Both he and Betsy are responsible and trying not to do anything that will upset the kids at the moment. They have grown attached to her, so I can imagine they'd think she'd abandoned them too if things didn't work out with Wes. Betsy puts on a strong front. Deep down, though, she wants someone to love her.
This is a story about 3 kids whose mother left them without a goodbye. It's about a family trying to make it through this new reality, and with Betsy, it has been easier. And when she receives a text, it sets off all of Wes' insecurities and his own abandonment issues. Being with someone for so long and they up and leave would be very hard to just 'get over', so he lashed out and said some hurtful things.
I love that this story felt like a biography and how they managed through this difficult part of their lives. It felt very real, and I could imagine things like this happened all too often in situations like this. Whilst the situation isn't exactly the same, I could feel myself relate to those feelings of having to start over when your whole life has just been upended.
The kids absolutely made this story, and I loved the close friendship that the 4 amigos had! This is one of those stories that once you pass the turmoil and angst, it's a feel-good story of love and moving forward, really well done and a pleasure to read.
Merged review:
Wes has just had his life turn upside down with his wife leaving and walking out on him and the kids months before his last season is supposed to finish.
He moved back to his hometown to be near friends and family who could help out. But he still needs help with other things. Enter Betsy. She's the new Nanny. The kids love her. She's great with them.
Betsy is a carefree person who hasn't found her place in the world yet. So she decides to take the nanny position because, why not? She enjoys being around the kids, and they like being around her. Wes is still trying to finalise his divorce, so he feels he shouldn't be having the thoughts he does for Betsy. They are both attracted to each other, you can tell in the way they hold each other's gaze.
This is really well done, and Betsy is written so well that I can almost hear her southern twang in my head. Betsy is a confident, self-assured woman. The words flow nicely, and the familiarity with Wes' friends is also well done. I love the kids and their different personalities. I feel for Em as she's older than the other two, so this is going to hit her, and she's eventually going to break down.
This is a story of an NFL player on the cusp of retirement, with 3 kids going through a divorce. It's written so eloquently that I feel the angst at what Wes is going through. Juggling a demanding job and trying to be as present as he can be. Both he and Betsy are responsible and trying not to do anything that will upset the kids at the moment. They have grown attached to her, so I can imagine they'd think she'd abandoned them too if things didn't work out with Wes. Betsy puts on a strong front. Deep down, though, she wants someone to love her.
This is a story about 3 kids whose mother left them without a goodbye. It's about a family trying to make it through this new reality, and with Betsy, it has been easier. And when she receives a text, it sets off all of Wes' insecurities and his own abandonment issues. Being with someone for so long and they up and leave would be very hard to just 'get over', so he lashed out and said some hurtful things.
I love that this story felt like a biography and how they managed through this difficult part of their lives. It felt very real, and I could imagine things like this happened all too often in situations like this. Whilst the situation isn't exactly the same, I could feel myself relate to those feelings of having to start over when your whole life has just been upended.
The kids absolutely made this story, and I loved the close friendship that the 4 amigos had! This is one of those stories that once you pass the turmoil and angst, it's a feel-good story of love and moving forward, really well done and a pleasure to read.
May 17, 2023
Where to begin? I loved Wes and Betsy's story so much. This is the type of story that gives you all the feels. It is serious and deep, but lightheaded and fun. I giggled and scoffed a couple of times while swooning throughout. The relationships with all the characters are heartwarming. I especially loved Betsy's interactions with Emerson, Hank and Magnolia. Wes and Betsy just fit.
"You found the sunshine in the rain." ~ Wes
"You found the sunshine in the rain." ~ Wes
May 24, 2023
This is the first book I've read by the author and I really enjoyed it and looking forward to more of the series. I really loved Betsy, Wes and his kids' story. Yes, it's not just Wes and Betsy, but their family. That makes it all the more sweet and heartfelt. I loved how Betsy brightened their lives right after what happened. I couldn't put the book down at all because I was sucked and invested in the story. I loved it from the start till the end. I can't wait for Oliver's story.
June 13, 2023
Amazing! Excellent storytelling! Watching love bloom between Betsy and Wes, and Wes's children (Emerson, Hank, and Magnolia) was emotional and heartwarming. Wonderful characters! Their story will definitely give you all the feels. I found myself reading until the wee hours of the night to finish this page-turning romantic story. Wes and Betsy's chemistry is explosive. Throw in some spicy scenes and you've got an absolute must-read story. Highly recommend it! 5 stars!
May 14, 2023
I’m sure I sound like a broken record by now, but every time I read a new Chelle book it becomes my favorite. She has a way of balancing the sexy times with the sweet. This book particularly hit me hard since I also married a man with kids, and Wes & Betsy reminded me of us. I can’t wait to come back to Rolling Hills with Chelle’s next book.
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