The Single Daddy Club: Derrick

The Single Daddy Club #1

by Donna Fasano

The Single Dad:
Ex-military man Derrick Richmond. Solitary and satisfied…until little Timmy was dropped into his lap and Derrick had to learn to be somebody's daddy.

The Single Woman:
Schoolteacher Anna Maxwell. Fate might have denied her a family of her own, but Anna still had plenty of love to give, if only someone would notice.

The Solution:
Anna would teach Derrick all he needed to know about kids. Father and son would give Anna some precious memories. Then the schoolteacher and the single dad would go their separate ways. Unless one little boy figured out a way to make Miss Maxwell become his mom!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Amazon, Fiction

147 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 1997

About the author

Growing up the third child of five—yes, smack dab in the middle and the only girl to boot—Donna Fasano had no idea she would one day be a published author. Her story-telling talents came to light when she conjured lively and elaborate tales of pure blarney (yes, she has a bit of Irish in her blood) for her children.

Donna is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels. Be sure to follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donna...

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first of several single father novels but we get a glimpse of the single dad's here.
Each comes to fatherhood and being a single dad raising a child in a different way.
Derrick "inherits" his godson and must choose to be a father and give up a lifelong career in the Navy.
He comes into fatherhood, or a parental role, with zero experience. His life has been very regulated.
Timmy is not your typical child. He has had little experience being a kid and being around kids.
He does present unique challenges to an inexperienced parent.

When Timmy acts up at school and derrick is called in to talk t the teacher, things get interesting quickly.
Miss Anna goes along on a home visit, which ends up being a sailing adventure, to see how Derrick and Timmy relate to each other. Timmy soon decides he doesn't want to be sailing and goes below deck, leaving Anna and derrick to get to know each other.


Lots of turbulence in this story, and many obstacles to overcome.
Also some steamy interactions between the adults.

[Jo-Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Single Daddy Club is a series about three single men raising children on their own. They encouraged and supported each other with child raising issues and life in general. After his cousin's death, Derrick became guardian to his godson, Timmy. Being a single, career military man, Derrick didn't have a clue how to raise a child. But he was determined to give Timmy a good home. So he resigned his commission and settled down with Timmy. He thought everything was going fine until his godson's kindergarten teacher, Anna, called him about Timmy's behaviour problems in class. During the conference, Derrick admitted not knowing how to raise a child and asked for the teacher's help with this. Against her better judgement, Anna agreed to help Derrick by giving him lessons on parenting. The more time they spent together, the stronger their attraction became. But Anna was determined to not get involved with a man and kept pushing Derrick away. He wanted to see where the relationship could go and was not letting her get away.

This book realistically shows the problems that can arise with children and becoming an instant parent. Parenting is not an easy road but it is rewarding. Timmy's young life was heart-breaking to learn about. Derrick was a strong, capable man who couldn't see the problems he had with Timmy until someone else pointed them out. And Anna had her own issues. Even with all the tough times these people had, they kept going to make life better. The characters and situations they where in were told in such a way that they were quite believable. The ending was wonderful.

My Rating: 3.5 stars

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

It should come as no surprise that I love this author’s books and writing style: the more traditional form of romance that is character driven, relates to people in all situations and places in life and has a happy ending are just the thing for a quiet afternoon curled up with a book.

This story is written with heart and emotion clear on the page. Derrick is both perfectly suited to parenthood and completely clueless about ‘parenting’ and not just being a friend. Of course, he’s made huge changes In his life to accommodate his new situation, he just needs a crash course. Anna is that perfect choice, logically, as she is a teacher and has ‘experience’ with kids. Her personal style and commitment to her lessons and the children, however, create real issues for the former strictly controlled and scheduled military man.

In incremental pieces, Donna Fasano shows Derrick, and the reader by extension, that strict adherence to schedules and planning every facet of every day is literally impossible when dealing with children. From his initial irritation with Anna not being in the appointed place, to her suggestions that Timmy help carry and plan; Derrick is learning to loosen up and go with the flow, even if he doesn’t like the idea.

As the sparks fly and Anna is convinced that Derrick needs a woman who can give him more children – the true conflict arises. His approach and direct confrontation is a scene that will win your heart –even if you aren’t half in love with him already, his character is that well created. And everyone will wish for a teacher like Anna for their young children: dedicated, excited and truly a source of learning and inspiration for her class with an approach that teaches personal responsibility and shows empathy, not just recitation of a lesson.

There are no great mysteries here: everyone learns something about themselves, about their heart, and about trusting in love to conquer all. With a happy ever after that is even sweeter in the telling, you too will be a fan of this story.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Marsha · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading the stellar reviews for "Derrick" I totally wasn't expecting the totally unrealistic nature of this plot. In a nutshell, a single man, Derrick is the godfather to his cousin's son, Timmy, and when the father is killed in a military accident Derrick is left to raise the boy. So, when Derrick is summoned to Tim's school, he is bound and determined not to allow Tim to be labeled or placed into special education. Derrick wasn't expecting to be attracted to Timmy's teacher.

Here is where the problems begin. The teacher, Anna, goes on a boating outing with Derrick and Timmy. In no time they are kissing and can't stop thinking about one another. Anna informs Derrick they can't see each other and then she is crying because they can't be together. Really? They don't even know each other. This story is full of silly moments like this and I just couldn't buy it! On the positive side, the one thing the book does well is the way the adults deal with the children. That was well done. The rest was bleh!!!!!

[Diane Driscoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book that I have read of author Donna Fasano and I was captivated by the story line! I loved the main character and how they were developed through the story. It was like I was looking into a window watching the story unfold. It was like viewing a real life journey of a man learning to be a father … a single father at that and in the process of trial and error true love is found. I enjoyed this book and looking forward to reading the other books in the series to find out what happens to the main characters and find out the story of the other supporting characters who are single fathers as well.

[M.A. Comley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Donna Fasano's romances, I'm a big fan, have been since I discovered her as an Harlequin author.

This was a wonderful romance about conquering deep set fears and apprehension.

Derrick is the guardian of his godson, Timmy, who, after his father's death, struggles from aggresive behaviour at school. Enter Timmy's teacher Anna who does all she can to help Derrick acclimatize to his new role as 'daddy'.

An entertaining read full of emotion.

Off to read, Jason, the second book in the series.

[Marlene Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful, emotion packed book. That Derrick would do what he did for Timmy...It was beautiful. The end of the book (won't go into detail as I don't want to spoil it for others) made me cry. Donna it was beautiful. Awesomely done.

[Debbie Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read of Donna Fasano. I loved it. It is a very good read and it is steamy but still leaves something to the imagination. My favorite kind of book. I will be getting the other 2 books in the series. Well worth the time.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Big Al's Books and Pals review blog on December 19, 2012

Three single dads band together to offer support for each other in raising their children single handedly, each being in this situation for very different reasons. They are proud of their single status and vow to be loving, nurturing parents. They also state that although female companionship would be nice, they will not marry solely for the sake of their children. Their motto is “Fatherhood forever!”

When Naval officer Derrick Richmond was given custody of his godson, five-year old Timmy, he resigned his full-time status and joined the Naval Reserves so he could raise Timmy in a secure stable environment. Derrick enlists the help of Timmy’s kindergarten teacher Anna when Timmy starts acting out at school.

The story opens with Derrick being summoned for parent/teacher conference because of behavior problems Timmy is having at school. Derrick is very defensive and protective of Timmy and doesn't make the best first impression with Anna. He is overbearing and head strong, but realizes he needs help. Anna reluctantly agrees to help him with parenting lessons. She is a smart woman and is able to pinpoint some of the problems immediately after joining them on a Saturday outing. The chemistry between Derrick and Anna is immediate and she wastes no time putting up defenses to protect her heart. It is clear she has been hurt in the past and has resigned herself to an unrealistic fate. Luckily, Derrick is a smart sensitive man and has full intention of straightening her attitude out.

I love the journeys this author takes us on in each of her stories. They are always realistic, heartwarming and a bit heart-wrenching. The prose draws you in quickly and you feel her character’s pains, agonies, and joys thoroughly. The kindergarten room scenes were a lot of fun. The author has captured the kids and their dialogue perfectly. I found the last scene in the classroom a little hard to read, the tears in my eyes kept blurring the words, of course that wasn't even the end of the story. The ending was even better.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **

[Lynelle Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book during a Book Tour giveaway in November 2014.
The end of this book really did it for me, it was the perfect ending to a story that seemed to have no solution for a young woman that thought life has ended when she received devastating news from her doctor.
Anna, a kindergarten teacher was born to have children, that was evident throughout the book as you meet her class. The energy she has to do this great work could be felt as she reached out to each child on their own level. When one of her pupils had problems she followed the procedures and called for the parent to have a serious talk about Timmy.
When Derrick steps in I swear I thought I could hear my heart thumping in my chest.
Timmy is a lovely boy with a world of pain on his shoulders, but with the right guidance he would be a great man, especially with a father figure like Derrick. The bond between the two was just heart warming. The very day struggles that parents face with young children was evident and made this story believable.
This is a wonderful story of a father's love for his son, the son's struggle to adapt after he had been tossed around for the first part of his life. It touches the serious topic of adoption and how people can not only give but receive so much joy from it, making this a wonderful story to enjoy.
And the review would not be complete if I did not mention something about the toe-curling attraction between these two people, my word. It was truly beautiful.
A great book I can recommend to all romantic lovers.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a single parent is never easy. But, imagine being a single dad to your godson. You have no parenting experience and suddenly you are responsible for this child. What would you do? For Derrick, he seeks help from the one person he knows that has the experience he lacks, his godson's teacher. The connection between Derrick and Anna meet there is an immediate connection. However, Anna has a secret that could keep her and Derrick apart. Could this lead to more than just helping his godson? Together can they help Timmy begin to heal and give him the family the little boy desperately needs? Or will Anna's secret keep them apart?

If you love sweet romances then you have found it! Ms. Fasano has written a series that will appeal to all readers who enjoy happily-ever-afters.

[Suzanne Pederson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick and light read

Having my own two "single dad" books recently published, I was drawn to the story line of this book to see how other authors handle the single dad plot.The story definitely drew me in from the first page. I could feel the dad's anxiety in the opening scene.Despite some predictability in the plot and what sometimes felt like exagerated emotions in Anna, the story was satisfying and engaging.and I wanted to see these characters in a happy ending.

[Jackie Weger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story so much. Derrick goes from being a godfather to instant dad when his godson is orphaned. The story tugs at your heart, but I love a hero who gets it right. Yes, there's an HEA romance, but Derrick is a 'mother' bear who does all things good for his cub to build a family. A true heart-warming romance. Highly recommended.

[Gretchen Fatouros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally a PG romance that is sweet. The main characters seem a bit too drawn to each other, even when a class of kindergartens is right there, which makes it seem a bit far fetched. But overall an enjoyable read.

Enjoying this author. Heading to book 2, about Jason...

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time reading this author and I truly enjoyed this book. Was a delightful story.

[Janeiowa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful story of two interesting and well-drawn characters. I was pulled into the plot from the start.

[Christine C · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good premise, poor execution

What did I like?
Timmy. The fact that Derrick rearranged his entire life to make a stable life for Timmy.
What didn't I like? So much.
First, it's installed. Drives me batty.
Second, the conflict seems so contrived. It's not even discussed until the end of the book, and then resolved within just a few pages.
Third, this feels like a book from the 80s updated to reflect the modern world with cell phones and one mention of YouTube. The female lead is a kindergarten teacher. One boy says the word pretty is a sissy word and not fit for boys to use. And she freaking allows it! The come up with an alternative "boy word" do describe the changing leaves. Then later she makes the statement that "with today's economy women almost have to work too to make ends meet." Seriously? ? Yes, many do. And many do it because they love their jobs or for many other reasons.
The way she handles her conflict also makes her seem quite immature and flighty. And the make lead comes over as overbearing and the type who won't take no for an answer.

[Cindy Caron · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! I love the characters, the plot, and everything in between! This is a new author for me, and she has blown my away with her wonderful talent! I love the idea of the "single daddy club", and the differences in characters of those men. Drawn together because of long-term friendships, they now have an additional bond of being "single dads". Derrick fits the shoe, so to speak, but in a whole different way than what you would expect. His ward, his godson, is brought to him after the death of his dad, Derrick's cousin. But Derrick would do anything for Tim, even if that meant gently coercing the help of Tim's teacher, Anna. Not only will sparks fly, but deep secrets are about to be revealed and new embers come to life. A beautifully told love story that will warm your heart and make your eyes leak a bit every now and then.
I'm hooked and am looking forward to the next in this series!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teacher & Single Dad

I found this story enjoyable since told from both viewpoints. Derrick becomes an instant parent when he becomes the legal guardian to his cousin's child when the cousin dies. Sparks fly between the child's teacher & Derrick when a meeting is needed to address Timmy's behavior in school. The teacher is positive Derrick can correct the problems once she understands the relationship between uncle & child. For some reason Anna is determined to not let a relationship develop between herself & Derrick. Derrick is determined to have Anna in his life, it takes patience & perseverance. The downside to the story was repetitiveness by Anna & keeping a secret.

[LoriEF · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sweet book about a Navy officer who has custody of his godson and the boy's kindergarten teacher, who he enlists ("enlists" ha! See what I did there...?) to help him understand his new role as a father. The attraction between them is obvious to both, but she won't allow herself to get involved with him and he doesn't understand why. Characters are very likeable, the story is believable, and, while there is passion and play, there is no overt sex. Easy and quick read - really enjoyed this one.

[Hanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot to like but

This is basically a well written story that is in my opinion seriously flawed. The characters have the self control of animals. I suppose this level of passion is supposed to be romantic, or maybe sexy, but to me it is crass and distasteful. Too many pages of heavy breathing and not enough showing more meaningful reasons for mutual attraction for this old woman, who has lived long enough to see many, many relationships based on sex fall apart after the initial excitement has worn off.

[K B · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
I purchased The Single Daddy Club Trilogy book 1: Derrick by Donna Fasano and this review was given freely.
Derrick resigns from the Navy to raise his 5 year old Godson Timmy and finds both his opposite and true love in the flamboyant kindergarten teacher Anna.
A heartwarming full length clean tale of unconditional love, the struggles of a first time father, and the true meaning of family.

[Wilma Kirchman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would recommend this book.

I enjoyed this book. Both parties had things they needed to work through. Anna had been badly rejected due to a medical problem. Derrick was finding his way to being a father to his godson(cousin). You see how these two work through their idea of problems. I recommend this book and will continue with the series.

[Marie McKenney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great single dad story

Derrick is struggling to adjust to raising his nephew when his brother dies. He is part of a single dad club. Anna ends up being Timmy's teacher. She helps Derrick with ideas to help him. They are so wonderful together. His buddies are so funny also. Love this book about his struggles. Love the ending also.

[Michelle Ferrari-Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Special Education

When his cousin dies, Derrick has to rearrange his life. As Timmy's godfather, he retires his military career for civilian life. When he gets called to see Timmy's kindergarten teacher he loses his mind when she says Timmy needs special attention. He will NOT let his godson be labeled in special education!

Quaint and easy to read series~

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a cute feel good story about a godfather that is now a dad to his nephew , Timmy. The story revolves around a triangle relationship between Timmy, his teacher and Derek. A definite cute story.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

Instant dad Derrick was guardian of his 5 year old godson. He was called into the school to see what happening and ends up meeting Anna Maxwell, kindergarten teacher. He ask for help, but they become so much more.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Derrick is quite the man; his character is not developed very well; but we can fill in the blanks quite easily. Anna is the self destructive female; that some of us tend to put on ourselves when we haven't found the ONE yet. When these two get together wow!!

[Carol Tietsworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it, but it was easy, I mean the only negatives were a little bad behavior and endometriosis. Other than that, their lives ran like a well-oiled machine, and to my knowledge, life isn't like that.

[Robin Malek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read

Dialogue between Derrick and Anna is delicious with all the misunderstandings and assumptions but in the end I love that HEA.
Lots of descriptive and extensive words.
Lovely story.