What do you think?
Rate this book
Babies in the Bargain
With only one year left to complete her medical training in Neonatology, Dr. Holly Collier vows not to let anyone mess up her sacrosanct schedule. Especially not the drop-dead gorgeous Dr. Marc Suarez who broke her heart seven years ago.
When a tragic accident transforms the carefree playboy into a dedicated but novice father to his nephew, Holly gives in to her maternal instincts and turns her structured life upside down for the orphaned preemie. But can she learn to trust Marc again and believe in true love?
When a tragic accident transforms the carefree playboy into a dedicated but novice father to his nephew, Holly gives in to her maternal instincts and turns her structured life upside down for the orphaned preemie. But can she learn to trust Marc again and believe in true love?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
40 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Mona Risk
209 books138 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Mona Risk, received an Outstanding Achiever Award from Affaire de Coeur Magazine. Her name has often been posted on the Amazon.com 100 Most Popular Authors in Romance list. She's a two time winner of Best Contemporary Romance of the Year from Readers Favorite; a winner of Best Romance Novel of the Year from Preditors & Editors Readers Poll; and an EPIC Award finalist.
A tireless traveler, Mona Risk writes contemporary romance, medical romance, and romantic suspense novels, all simmering with emotion, sprinkled with a good dose of humor and set in the fascinating places she visited.
“Ms. Risk is one of those authors who puts together a tale that’s captivates from first page to last.” ~ The Romance Studio
“Sign me up, Ms Risk, I'll be looking for your next foreign escape.” ~ Publishers Weekly Saturday Blurb Barbara Vey's Special Beyond her Book
“Mona Risk will pull you in with her amazing characters and in-depth twisting suspense.” ~ Night Owl Romance
“Mona Risk is a talented author. She knows how to weave intrigue and romance into her story.” ~ Review Your Book Review
“Mona Risk’s writing sweeps you into the story from the first page, and keeps you turning the pages.”~ The Long And The Short Reviews.
A tireless traveler, Mona Risk writes contemporary romance, medical romance, and romantic suspense novels, all simmering with emotion, sprinkled with a good dose of humor and set in the fascinating places she visited.
“Ms. Risk is one of those authors who puts together a tale that’s captivates from first page to last.” ~ The Romance Studio
“Sign me up, Ms Risk, I'll be looking for your next foreign escape.” ~ Publishers Weekly Saturday Blurb Barbara Vey's Special Beyond her Book
“Mona Risk will pull you in with her amazing characters and in-depth twisting suspense.” ~ Night Owl Romance
“Mona Risk is a talented author. She knows how to weave intrigue and romance into her story.” ~ Review Your Book Review
“Mona Risk’s writing sweeps you into the story from the first page, and keeps you turning the pages.”~ The Long And The Short Reviews.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 13, 2016
A very nice read. Lots of unexpected events, one overbearing/overinvolved extended family, lots of tension from a past relationship, tons of sexual tension, emergent medical cases involving premie babies and at risk mothers, so much going on!
Some times I think romance novels seem pretty far fetched because the hunky guy wisks the gorgeous girl off to a private island to tell her how much he loves her, blah, blah, blah and the only reason it works is because it's pure fantasy. There are no real life complications, etc.
This book feels more like it's set in the real world. While it's not my world, it felt more similar to the real world. Both Holly & Marc have fast paced medical careers and Holly is still studying for her board exams so they live crazy busy lives. Holly doesn't want to find time for romance as her career is her focus.
In a crazy turn of events Marc ends up with his newborn nephew and has to deal with all the stress and decisions that come from that. Their past relationship makes Holly the perfect person to help Marc through this so even though it's not easy or convenient they try to help each other out.
Again, it's not the most realistic story ever, there were more elements of "normal life" than I've seen in other romance novels. Trying to figure out work situations around child care, finding time to go on a proper date, dealing with family pressures and issues, etc.
All together a very nice read.
Some times I think romance novels seem pretty far fetched because the hunky guy wisks the gorgeous girl off to a private island to tell her how much he loves her, blah, blah, blah and the only reason it works is because it's pure fantasy. There are no real life complications, etc.
This book feels more like it's set in the real world. While it's not my world, it felt more similar to the real world. Both Holly & Marc have fast paced medical careers and Holly is still studying for her board exams so they live crazy busy lives. Holly doesn't want to find time for romance as her career is her focus.
In a crazy turn of events Marc ends up with his newborn nephew and has to deal with all the stress and decisions that come from that. Their past relationship makes Holly the perfect person to help Marc through this so even though it's not easy or convenient they try to help each other out.
Again, it's not the most realistic story ever, there were more elements of "normal life" than I've seen in other romance novels. Trying to figure out work situations around child care, finding time to go on a proper date, dealing with family pressures and issues, etc.
All together a very nice read.
February 22, 2012
This is a second chances story. Holly had her heart broken seven years ago whist starting out on her medical degree. She is now almost finished and she will not let anything get in the way of her professional goals. It was another doctor, Mark, that broke her heart, but for good reasons as he had to go back home and help his family get through some tough times. His mistake was not explaining his actions, he just disappeared. Is is possible to forgive and love again?
The story unfolds with some seriously sad chapters that are filled with the death of Mark's brother and sister-in-law mixed with memories of Holly and Mark's short relationship from years before. This is the impetuous that pulls the two back together to take care of the preemie child of Mark's recently dead family members. I'm not sure that I would give Power of Attorney to a co-worker, but Holly is no regular colleague from the hospital. There is serious chemistry between the H/h.
I liked what happens in the end, yes, there is an obvious HEA, but it was the way it was described and delivered that made it a fun read. Yes, I did stay up until 2am finishing it, but don't worry, I'm on my ski vacation in the Pyrenees so I'll just take a nap instead of snow shoeing in the forest tomorrow morning. I got this free for kindle and it was good. I've on a roll lately with finding great romantic freebies.
2 stars
The story unfolds with some seriously sad chapters that are filled with the death of Mark's brother and sister-in-law mixed with memories of Holly and Mark's short relationship from years before. This is the impetuous that pulls the two back together to take care of the preemie child of Mark's recently dead family members. I'm not sure that I would give Power of Attorney to a co-worker, but Holly is no regular colleague from the hospital. There is serious chemistry between the H/h.
I liked what happens in the end, yes, there is an obvious HEA, but it was the way it was described and delivered that made it a fun read. Yes, I did stay up until 2am finishing it, but don't worry, I'm on my ski vacation in the Pyrenees so I'll just take a nap instead of snow shoeing in the forest tomorrow morning. I got this free for kindle and it was good. I've on a roll lately with finding great romantic freebies.
2 stars
February 20, 2012
Two-haiku review:
Two doctors working
He left seven years ago
She can't trust him now
Dead brother's baby
Good characters, good story
She wants family
Two doctors working
He left seven years ago
She can't trust him now
Dead brother's baby
Good characters, good story
She wants family
June 30, 2017
Chocolates!
I think stories like this are like chocolates. I love them! Holly and Marc loved each other 7 years ago but his family got in the way. Now they are getting a 2nd chance.
I think stories like this are like chocolates. I love them! Holly and Marc loved each other 7 years ago but his family got in the way. Now they are getting a 2nd chance.
January 27, 2022
Hot Doc itty bitty Baby
Mins Risk has written a fabulous story. You will laugh, cry, gasp,cry, cheer, and smile and move to the next page or at least throughout the chapters. Take a chance you'll enjoy it.
Mins Risk has written a fabulous story. You will laugh, cry, gasp,cry, cheer, and smile and move to the next page or at least throughout the chapters. Take a chance you'll enjoy it.
February 20, 2020
Loved this book. While it has fluffy romance it also keeps and portrays a depth of characters. Great definitely going to get another book by this author.
April 30, 2010
Risk pens a solid character driven story that will tug on the heartstrings with "Babies in the Bargain." A contemporary romance set in Washington, D.C., "Babies in the Bargain," heroine, Dr. Holly Collier, has a tough schedule to maintain, but when Dr. Marc Suarez comes back into her life, Holly's schedule, and her heart, are challenged in more ways than one.
Dr. Holly Collier has one more year left in her neonatology training before she has to take her exams. She very dedicated to her young patients, but her world becomes unsettled when an old flame, Dr. Marc Suarez is hired as an anesthesiologist. Holly and Marc had a budding relationship seven years prior, but when he traveled to Puerto Rico to help his family, the relationship fell apart.
Marc is thrilled to see Holly again, but doesn't understand why she's so aloof. Tragedy brings them together when Marc's brother, Carlos, and Carlos's wife, Lydia, are killed in a traffic accident, leaving behind a baby son. Marc is devastated and vows to raise the young boy, who he names Paulito. Holly, moved by what has happened to Marc, reaches out to him. Marc and Holly draw closer as Holly cares for Paulito when Marc takes his brother back to Puerto Rico for his funeral.
Holly is impressed with Marc's efforts to take care of the baby. When Marc spontaneously asks Holly to move in with him, Holly agrees, but dare she give the dashing doctor, and her heart, another chance at love?
Risk's writing is easy to read and engages the reader right away. The plot flows well and there's never a dull moment.
Risk uses a good economy of words to give the reader vivid descriptions of Marc and Holly's world, making it easy for the reader to picture the book's setting.
Marc and Holly are complex characters that are a joy to watch grow. Holly's dedication to her medical career is admirable, but it's rewarding to watch her grow in compassion and love as she cares for Paulito. Marc is a nice guy who is put in a tough situation. It's heartwarming to see how he steps up to care for his nephew. As Marc comes to trust Holly, it's nice to see him confide his problems to her.
"Babies in the Bargain" is sophisticated for romance readers. The love scene is sensual and tasteful. Overall, the story is one that will leave the reader believing in the power of true love.
Dr. Holly Collier has one more year left in her neonatology training before she has to take her exams. She very dedicated to her young patients, but her world becomes unsettled when an old flame, Dr. Marc Suarez is hired as an anesthesiologist. Holly and Marc had a budding relationship seven years prior, but when he traveled to Puerto Rico to help his family, the relationship fell apart.
Marc is thrilled to see Holly again, but doesn't understand why she's so aloof. Tragedy brings them together when Marc's brother, Carlos, and Carlos's wife, Lydia, are killed in a traffic accident, leaving behind a baby son. Marc is devastated and vows to raise the young boy, who he names Paulito. Holly, moved by what has happened to Marc, reaches out to him. Marc and Holly draw closer as Holly cares for Paulito when Marc takes his brother back to Puerto Rico for his funeral.
Holly is impressed with Marc's efforts to take care of the baby. When Marc spontaneously asks Holly to move in with him, Holly agrees, but dare she give the dashing doctor, and her heart, another chance at love?
Risk's writing is easy to read and engages the reader right away. The plot flows well and there's never a dull moment.
Risk uses a good economy of words to give the reader vivid descriptions of Marc and Holly's world, making it easy for the reader to picture the book's setting.
Marc and Holly are complex characters that are a joy to watch grow. Holly's dedication to her medical career is admirable, but it's rewarding to watch her grow in compassion and love as she cares for Paulito. Marc is a nice guy who is put in a tough situation. It's heartwarming to see how he steps up to care for his nephew. As Marc comes to trust Holly, it's nice to see him confide his problems to her.
"Babies in the Bargain" is sophisticated for romance readers. The love scene is sensual and tasteful. Overall, the story is one that will leave the reader believing in the power of true love.
December 23, 2012
Glad to see a different cover this time around!
See comment:
I'm not sure why I liked this because if I had thought about the cover, it would have put me off! The two people depicted are not old enough to be in their 30s and the highly qualified doctors in the story. Portraying the couples on the cover as too young is a common error in romance novels and one which the publishers and perhaps authors (though I know they don't get much say) should re-think.
The notion of Holly Collier having the newborn in her room at the hospital and all the nurses looking after it, is a bit unbelievable as was the hero not having other friends who could look after it. However, I am well aware that the author needed to put the couple into each other's orbit. In spite of this, I did quite like this story. The heroine and hero are shown to be nice people, in spite of the traditional carry-on over him not seeing her for seven years (which is a bit of a stretch) and her not having dated for that time. I think the author could have given her a few casual dates/flings, as it would be normal behaviour for a healthy young woman, but it's not a big issue.
There is not so much fussing around and angst as in most romance stories which pleased me, and as I don't know anything about the visas required for working in America, that apparent error didn't faze me.
Not a bad effort.
See comment:
I'm not sure why I liked this because if I had thought about the cover, it would have put me off! The two people depicted are not old enough to be in their 30s and the highly qualified doctors in the story. Portraying the couples on the cover as too young is a common error in romance novels and one which the publishers and perhaps authors (though I know they don't get much say) should re-think.
The notion of Holly Collier having the newborn in her room at the hospital and all the nurses looking after it, is a bit unbelievable as was the hero not having other friends who could look after it. However, I am well aware that the author needed to put the couple into each other's orbit. In spite of this, I did quite like this story. The heroine and hero are shown to be nice people, in spite of the traditional carry-on over him not seeing her for seven years (which is a bit of a stretch) and her not having dated for that time. I think the author could have given her a few casual dates/flings, as it would be normal behaviour for a healthy young woman, but it's not a big issue.
There is not so much fussing around and angst as in most romance stories which pleased me, and as I don't know anything about the visas required for working in America, that apparent error didn't faze me.
Not a bad effort.
February 15, 2016
The perfect book to read on Valentine's day, or any day that you need a little bit of love in your day!
After pinning for the man who broke her heart seven years ago, Holly has finally come to terms with the fact that she will always have her career and that she will never have true love or a family, and she's ok with that. That is, until the one and only Marc Suarez pranced right back into her life. When an unexpected tragedy happens, and Marc finds himself with the responsibilities of a newborn preemie, he turns to the only person he trusts to help him...Holly. Will she be able to keep her heart from breaking yet another time where it comes to the "playboy" Marc? Will he ever want to leave his carefree lifestyle behind in exchange for parenthood and love?
Mona Risk has written a wonderful love story that will touch you heart in many ways. It takes a special person to work with pre-mature babies and an even more special one to love someone else's baby as if they were your own. Make sure you have a few tissues handy and be prepared to feel the love. The author has given us an abundance. Well worth the read.
After pinning for the man who broke her heart seven years ago, Holly has finally come to terms with the fact that she will always have her career and that she will never have true love or a family, and she's ok with that. That is, until the one and only Marc Suarez pranced right back into her life. When an unexpected tragedy happens, and Marc finds himself with the responsibilities of a newborn preemie, he turns to the only person he trusts to help him...Holly. Will she be able to keep her heart from breaking yet another time where it comes to the "playboy" Marc? Will he ever want to leave his carefree lifestyle behind in exchange for parenthood and love?
Mona Risk has written a wonderful love story that will touch you heart in many ways. It takes a special person to work with pre-mature babies and an even more special one to love someone else's baby as if they were your own. Make sure you have a few tissues handy and be prepared to feel the love. The author has given us an abundance. Well worth the read.
May 26, 2012
Holly lost her true love seven years ago when he up and left her for family issues back home. Now a senior resident of neonatal, Holly is about ready to start her life in her dream career when her true love Marc comes waltzing back into her life. At first, she tries to ignore him and her attraction but when a twist of fate brings them together will she be able to fight it. Told in alternative perspectives "Babies in the Bargain" is a heart wrenching tale in which an orphaned child bring these lover back together but will the hang ups from the past wreck their future.
I loved this book and was so enraptured by the story I could not put it down. Holly and Marc were both entertaining characters and so easy to fall in love with. I love how protective of Paul (the baby) Holly was even from the beginning. It was as if after the tragedy Paul was her son and needed to protect and love him. I loved the ending and how they finally got together. It's a romance novel you know they get together but the how is why you read it. If you have read this far pick up the book it will not disappoint.
I loved this book and was so enraptured by the story I could not put it down. Holly and Marc were both entertaining characters and so easy to fall in love with. I love how protective of Paul (the baby) Holly was even from the beginning. It was as if after the tragedy Paul was her son and needed to protect and love him. I loved the ending and how they finally got together. It's a romance novel you know they get together but the how is why you read it. If you have read this far pick up the book it will not disappoint.
September 28, 2011
Babies in the Bargain is an engrossing medical romance. I couldn’t stop reading except for a quick trip to grab a bite in the kitchen before scooting back to this excellent story. Not only are Drs. Marc Suarez and Holly Collier exquisitely well drawn--the tension between them pulses from the pages—and the medical details refreshingly authentic, but the babies are irresistible. The story is reminiscent of Grey’s Anatomy, only I liked Babies in the Bargain better. These two sexy doctors have far more integrity and I didn’t have to worry that the author would kill them off in some hideous fashion as has been known to happen on Grey’s. I thoroughly enjoyed the hard won HEA ending in this most satisfying read.
February 23, 2016
"3 out of 5 stars. Old lovers meet again seven years later, one still feels betrayed but when an orphaned baby boy comes into their lives, he unintentionally brings them back together. Will helping one another out be enough to start up their relationship again?
What can I say about this novel? It was a dramatically captivating read about two lovers muddling their way through a tremulous relationship while hoping for more to happen between them. I was riveted..."
Read more of my review and TWO TEASERS here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2016/02/made-grade-doctors-orders-series-book-1.html
What can I say about this novel? It was a dramatically captivating read about two lovers muddling their way through a tremulous relationship while hoping for more to happen between them. I was riveted..."
Read more of my review and TWO TEASERS here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2016/02/made-grade-doctors-orders-series-book-1.html
April 29, 2013
WHAT A VERY CUTE STORY. I totally enjoyed this story. You really get to run the gambit of emotions. Sadness, frustration, anger, happiness & joy. There is a whole lot to laugh about that is for sure. Holly has love Marc for seven years after a brief relationship or so she thought it was at the time but after she saw him kiss a nurse before going back home to attend to family matters, she becomes unsure. Then, when his endearing letters stop coming & he never calls she thinks she was nothing more this doctors convenient lay. So, she goes full board on becoming the best Peds doctor she can be when he turns up at her hospital. Let the good times roll...! babies in the bargain
March 1, 2013
I received this as a gift from the author and really enjoyed this lovely story. I loved Marc and Holly, and I always like reading books where the hero and heroine knew each other in the past and are reunited.
There was a lot of conflict between Marc and Holly, but they are able to overcome it and work together--professionally and romantically. I liked all the details about neonatology, as well as the emotion portrayed in some sad scenes.
I like the secondary characters (the nurses, Marc's family), and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
There was a lot of conflict between Marc and Holly, but they are able to overcome it and work together--professionally and romantically. I liked all the details about neonatology, as well as the emotion portrayed in some sad scenes.
I like the secondary characters (the nurses, Marc's family), and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
February 21, 2013
This was a cute story about two doctors who knew each other in the past and came to know each other again by an orphaned nephew. The first chapter is terribly sad so be prepared! It is a cute love story, slightly predictable but entertaining to read. I have to say there is a story of a "naturalist" mom in the book that kind of leaves you hanging... I so wanted more of her story or at least an update after we were introduced to her!! Looking for a light read? This would fit the bill!!
September 18, 2015
Par curiosité, j'aime bien découvrir les livres édités par Amazon : cela permet de découvrir des romans que les maisons d'éditions françaises de romance ne publieraient pas forcément (Amazon traduit des auteurs auto-édités issus de leur système). Bon, par contre je n'ai pas encore eu de coup de cœur. Nous avons ici une romance contemporaine sympathique et sans prise de tête qui se déroule dans le milieu médical.
September 12, 2012
I love this book and already so enthralled seeing the hero and heroine get their second chance of love together . I really like how Holly took great care of Baby Paul. Ooooh so much tension between them . But I really understand Marc 's family loyalty. Love the ending. Really romantic. To me , it was a great read. Hope to get more of Mona Risk books.
October 5, 2013
I got this story in a $0.99 box set. I really enjoyed this set of books. I like how the author didn't forget her American fans and includes a strong American in her stories. Great women, lovable men and each with such believable flaws. I definitely recommend this for the romance lover. Touching stories.
February 18, 2012
As a Puerto Rican, I resented the inaccuracies: we don't use black cloths over our heads in funerals, they are called mantillas but haven't been used in ages; and we don't serve chips and salsa, that's Mexican. It would have been more accurate to use pork roast with rice and beans.
May 3, 2011
ANOTHER OF MONA'S GREAT BOOKS. HER RESEARCH IN THE MEDICAL FIELD WAS PERFECT. INTRIGUING STORY. A MUST READ......
JACLYN
JACLYN
February 26, 2012
This is a bitter sweet love story. Loved it. Something so terrible that turns into something so good. Great read!
February 28, 2012
Loved It:)
October 26, 2013
Really enjoyed this light read nothing to serious .
May 1, 2013
No depth to the characters of the story.
May 27, 2013
Free read, not overly impressed... what saves it honestly is the chemistry with the leads... other than that. Empty calories, easily forgotten.
September 1, 2013
review coming soon
September 19, 2013
I loved it..but even though it was a seven yr delay..I felt the ending rushed a bit..couldn't I have a couple more minutes delay too..loved it..
May 21, 2014
Babies in the bargain
I enjoyed ready this book. It had a very good story line to it. I will be reading this book again.
I enjoyed ready this book. It had a very good story line to it. I will be reading this book again.
February 16, 2016
Sweet read
This is a very good sweet read. It's a story of 2 doctors and an orphaned baby boy who needs a family.
This is a very good sweet read. It's a story of 2 doctors and an orphaned baby boy who needs a family.
August 30, 2012
great book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews