Nanny for the Grump

by Emma Blake

It doesn’t get any more off-limits than your dad’s billionaire best friend who also happens to be your new boss.
But I’ve never been one to follow the rules.

I never imagined spilling a cold brew all over him in the interview would turn into passion hotter than the sun.

Noah, with his guarded glances and silent battles.
Those late-night paperwork sessions…
Spreadsheets turn into me spread on his desk.
My brattiness turns him into the dominant alpha he always was inside, and it’s…scorching.

Beneath those designer suits and hard exterior, there's a storm brewing.
His ex-wife is a tempest ready to take him down.
His son is a ray of sunshine whom I adore.
And me? I’m caught in the middle, trying to break down his walls.

Now, there’s a new forecast showing up in the form of two pink lines on a stick…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

284 pages, Paperback

Published November 5, 2023

Reviews

[Theresa Lambe · Rating 4 out of 5]

My only complaint was I didn't see Noah as a grump! Hot as hell boss. Hot as hell older man. Not a grump. But all those points made his and Liv's relationship just that much more intense.

I guess, though, my only wish would have been that someone stuck it a bit more to Natasha. I mean, I can't be the only one who wanted Liv to bitchslap her something fierce, can I?

I do absolutely love the brat that Liv was to bring this all about. Their fire was so sexy and raged so well and so long. All those feelings jumped off the page and made me swoon for them.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very start Noah and Olivia had instant chemistry...add in an adorable little boy and I'm hooked!!! Loved the banter back and forth between the two of them, the fact that she taught him how to slow down and enjoy the little moments was perfect!!!! The chemistry between them was steamy!!!!!! Lots of emotions while reading this book but I absolutely loved it!!

I received an ARC of this book and am giving my honest review.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick easy read! Not too much of an in depth plot, I wish I got to know more about the characters and there was more depth to it. But spicy and an easy read!

[Jennifer Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m going to be a minority here. I loved the characters. This book made me cry and laugh. I loved the girls in this book. The nanny is so likable. I love Emma Blake’s writing! I’ve enjoyed all of her books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joy Hintz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although there were parts of this book that I really enjoyed, I feel like it was too rushed in the beginning. I would have enjoyed a little bit more of a slow burn and some push pull relationship. I mean she showed up on day 1, Hi I'm the nanny....by EOD she's bent over his desk! And like other reviews, I didn't see him as a grump at all which is obviously implied in the book title! 🤔

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had loads of chemistry and heat, but what surprised me is how much heartfelt feels and tender moments it had as well! When I first dived in I honestly wasn’t expecting the depth of story that this delivered, and I’m not sure why it came off that way to me. I went in thinking this would be one of those easy, smutty reads without a huge depth of plot, but I was wrong!

There was definitely more story, and drama, and ups and downs, and character building, and I was more than pleasantly surprised. Once I got into it a little way I honestly had a hard time putting it down and flew through it.

I loved both Olivia and Noah and actually didn’t find Noah to be that much of a grump; and even when he was, his demeanour was totally understandable due to the situations he was dealing with. I also really enjoyed Olivia‘s sass and how she liked to push his buttons. And of course Elijah was a complete delight and such a great little character, and his mother, Natasha, was the perfect villain of a woman that you can’t help but disdain.

I really enjoyed everything about this. It was sweet, a little heart wrenching, and oh so spicy! 🌶️

There was one element I would’ve liked to see play out and come to fruition at the end of the story, but that’s a personal preference, and not having it didn’t take away from the stories enjoyment at all.

This book was well written and a solid 4 stars for me, and I would read more from this author in the future ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Barbara Bear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a whole bunch of hot chemistry after chapter 5 until the end. You have an older man who is about to get screwed over by his wife who is a total B. The kind that give real women a bad name. He hires his best friends daughter to be his nanny when it is suggested. She has a great track record with other families and he really needs the help. But the more that she stands up to his crappy attitude and his grumpiness, the more he starts to see another way of life and what he has been missing.

Only they have a lot hurdles to get over in order to be with each other. He could lose his business if his soon to be ex has any say in things, she wants to take everything from him she can and will use any information she gets or create some of her own. He could lose his son to her unless the judges sees things his way and he could lose his best friend if he gets really upset over the relationship with his daughter. How will they handle all of this?

This was a really HOT older man, younger woman relationship from boss the lover to so much more. She is just what he needed in his life and he and his son are everything she ever dreamed of having. It was such a touching story with a lot of realistic situations that I could not put the book down. I read this over about 24 hours from start to finish. I thoroughly recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Character - 6
Atmosphere - 7
Writing - 9
Plot - 5
Intrigue - 5
Logic - 6
Enjoyment - 6

Total: 6.24 (3.5 Stars)

I read these books in a boxed set and this one was an improvement on the first (Nanny for the Protector). Elijah, the little boy, is lovely and charming and really pulls you in. Again, Olivia is easy to like and I like her approach to the elements of the story. The heat and smut definitely picked up faster in this one. The conflict driving the story makes a bit more sense in this one too, because the ex is much more 'evil' and makes the divorce and difficulties make more sense.

But she is almost overdone. Instead of jaded, etc. she's just an evil bitch and I don't understand why Noah would have had a child with her in the first place. It borders on cartoonish evil stepmother vibes. And considering the level of 'evil' she rises to, the conflict and issues keeping the love interests apart just resolve far too quickly.

I think my biggest issue, with the whole series and as previously stated, is that there are *chapters* of smut, and then any actual story writing and conflict resolution comes together in maybe 10 pages or 2 chapters at most, which is frustrating. Because the story could have more to it, more depth and conflict and character development, but it just doesn't.

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man yall are in for a steamy story Today!!! This story of dads friend, Noah, who needs help,and along comes his friends daughter, Olivia, who nannies.

These two are electric from the first somewhat diastrious meet. After some grumbling, Olivia is hired to watch after his son Elijah. Olivia is really passionate about her job, and takes giving Elijah some stability, and giving Noah a break quite serious.

I loved this story. The two came together as time went on, and it was pure fire. Like White Hot!! She's new to the sexual game, and Noah is NOT. She falls instantly for his dominance, and roughness he gives her in his home office. He becomes her new addiction.

Noah fights his conscious, knowing Olivia is younger, his friends daughter, and her boss. It doesn't really stop them, until Olivia sees how much they both stand to lose, when she keeps having run ins with his ex wife. She doesn't want to risk Noah losing Elijah, or his career. I love how strong Noah is. He isn't afraid to fight for what he wants, and despite Olivias protests, he knows he wants her in his life.

There are nice plot twists that make this book seems so well thought out. You should give it a read, and tell me you wouldn't wanna Maybe chances places as one of them.....for book purposes, LOL.

[Krissy C · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. Story is a mix of dad's best friend, age-gap and employer-employee. This was an okay read and I was engaged wanting to find out how things finally work out for Noah and Olivia but something just felt missing to me. To be honest dad's best friend is not a favourite trope of mind and I didn't realise it was one of the trope until I started reading. But in the end it wasn't that glaring, aside from their friendship status being mentioned throughout the story, the 2 best friends don't seem to spend time with each so there wasn't that weird ick vibe of Noah watching Olivia growing up, makings things creepy. However the execution of the age gap bit could be smoother as it felt that Olivia was a little too immature and their relationship seemed to be more focused on lust. And after all the trouble and angst with the ex wife, everything seemed so easily resolved, it felt anti climatic. However there is a sweet HEA for the couple and Elijah is one adorable kid.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Krissy Brinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book

This is another amazing book by Emma Blake. I have read a few others and they do not disappoint. I was unable to put this one down once I started. I think the part I liked most was she was not the typical 18yr old daughter of his best friend she was 25 and was already away from home for years. One thing I would like to see is an extended epilogue or a bonus chapter in my email, I really need to know what happens next in their lives. Here are a few of my highlights

“Unfortunately, that’s me. Great first impression, huh? Bet the other nannies didn’t do that.”

“You think so, huh? Liv is just a friend. Besides, is just making someone laugh really enough for them to love you?” “I don’t know. I’m only ten. All I know is that in all the movies, it sounds pretty important.”

“Wow, I guess you really can get pregnant after just one time. Our health class teachers would be so proud of themselves.”

But the heart wants what the heart wants.

“You're welcome. I’m happy to spill coffee on you whenever you wish.”

A must read book. Also the book preview at the end is also a really good book.

[Katie Callicutt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I felt that the book was well written. The storyline picked up quickly and the witty banter between the two main characters held strong the whole book. It was great to read a book where even though the MMC is a strong alpha-type, the MFC has a backbone and can hold her own.

If you are looking for spice, this book as it from the get go. No waiting until approx. 50% through for the spice to kick in. The BDSM in the book was also tasteful, IMO. Not too much, and not over the top. Playful with a hint of masochism. Plus her sassy nature really adds to it.

Usually I'm not a big fan of age-gap romances where the gap is so large, but it didn't bother me with this book. Specific ages weren't mentioned until later in the book, and at that, I calculated it to be about a 20 year age gap. But, again, the chemistry between the two doesn't sizzles so much, and they compliment each other so well, I didn't really ever think about their ago.

Where I struggled a bit was the storyline that drove them apart. It felt a little anti-climatic for me, and they rushed back together quickly without any hurdles for the HEA.

[Sunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a spicy age gap, daddy's best friend, nanny/boss romance. The leading lady is hired as a nanny for the leading lad's son upon recommendation by her father. Even though he had reservations due to their instant connection and rather unconventional start to her interview he hires her. While she is very good at her job and his son adores her, their desire for each other threatens their way of life. They do end up having very naughty domineering sexual encounters in his home office space where she pushs all his buttons with her smart mouth and he punishes her for it. While that's not really my thing, the scenes are written tastefully.
Will their relationship be able to withstand the age gap, his long hours at work, his (soon to be) ex wife, and her father? You'll have to read to find out.
This book is nicely written with tons of steam. The plot moves along at a good pace and there are some twists thrown in. Overall a great read.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**

[Manda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia's interview is not going well. First she gets lost and then she bumps into her potential new boss and covers him in coffee. If it weren't for the fact that his son, Elijah really likes her it is debatable that she would have gotten the job.

Noah needs help. He is sinking under the weight of a nasty divorce from his psycho ex, a massive work load and the care of his son. His best friend John suggested he hire his daughter, Olivia who is just back from a five year contract.

The attraction between these two is instantaneous and scorching. The fact that they shouldn't act on it just pushes the flames higher until the inevitable happens. When things come crashing down the resulting split is wrenching for all concerned.

I really enjoyed Emma's book. As always it was well written, with entertaining, likeable characters and just enough drama and angst to keep you turning the pages from start to finish.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna L · Rating 4 out of 5]

The age gap trope where the man is old enough to be her father is not my preferred style, but I decided to give it a go. I felt like the entire first half of the book was all about the numerous times they had naughty, forbidden, often irresponsible sex. I just didn’t feel like their relationship was based on anything except sex until much later in the book. Actually 3.5 stars.
Olivia was very understanding about the stress Noah was under with work and his impending divorce, and she was very kind and sweet to his son. She helped Noah become more caring and attentive as a father.
I was pleased that there weren’t any obvious typos or grammatical errors. It was a well-written book; it’s just that the story was just too predictable. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Noreen Hussain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read by Emma.
Noah and Olivia's age gap off limits nanny /boss romance was very enjoyable.To add more fuel to the fire she is his best friends daughter.
Noah hires Olivia as a nanny for his son Elijah.There is instant chemistry between them,they give into it.
The bond between Olivia and Elijah is so sweet and he is adorable.Olivia and Noah's feelings turn into something more,but there are so many hurdles in the way.
They go through a lot to get to their happily ever after.Noah's ex does not make it easy.
There are lots of tears,angst,steam,emotions,
feelings along the way to a happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michele McMullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am such a sucker for an age gap nanny trope and that is exactly what was given to me with Nanny for the Grump. We have a hot as Hades' rancher, single dad Noah. He is in desperate need of a nanny, but his little terror may have run a few willing employees off. SO, when a friends daughter steps in to fill in till they find a replacement he soon realizes she is must have been heaven sent. Olivia lights up his son's world, cares for him as her own challenges him and totally keeps up with him. She is perfect too perfect, and he soon begins to see her in a different light and the pull may be too much to deny!
Liv and Noah are sweet, sassy, spicy, cute and once they connect as more than nanny and employer, we are going to feel the sizzle!
~~Michele McMullen~~

[Karen Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia gets a job as nanny for Noah's son Elijah. Noah is her father's best friend and is going through a messy divorce. The last thing he really needs to do is fool around with the nanny. Things get a bit messy between Liv and Noah. I found this book easy to read to where you did not want to put it down. This is your standard nanny and the father, best friend book. It is pretty much cut out of your standard mold so you know what comes next, but, interesting enough that you want to read it. Good Job Emma Blake.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nyxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noah and Olivia's ( Liv's ) age-gap/ dad's best friend / nanny-boss romance was very good.
Noah hires Liv as a nanny for his son Elijah. There is a funny meet-cute between them & instant attraction. Live challenges Noah to be a better dad. She stands up to his crappy attitude and his grumpiness, she's the "brat" to this silver fox.
The bond between Olivia and Elijah was instant as well. She really connects to him and he is so adorable. Liv and Noah's feelings turn into much more than just steamy encounters, but there are so many hurdles in their way - namely his soon to be ex-wife!
Noah's ex is HORRIBLE !! She was a terrible wife, and proves to be a horrible mom as well.
Noah could lose everything - his son & his business - if his soon to be ex has her way. He could even lose his best friend if he finds out about the relationship Noah has with his Liv!

This was a really steamy book. I thoroughly recommend it !
My only complaint? Noah wasn't what I'd consider a real grump!

[Patti Sherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I seem to say this in every review. I mean it in every review. But Wow. I just loved this book. Noah just a hard butt. But melts with his son. Love it. Son what a sweet character. I just loved his personality and actions. What a sweetie. I adore Liv. Loved everything about her. There are lots of Steamy parts. Oh big time. There are parts that make you so angry. But love how it was handled. I couldn't put this book down. It is that good. I highly recommend this book. This Author. You will so enjoy it.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The nanny that changes everything! This is about Olivia and Noah. Although Noah is much older and Olivia is the daughter of his best friend, the attraction between them is there and something that they try to fight off but can’t. Noah is going through an ugly divorce and trying to keep his son Elijah from his ex, but Olivia is also affected by it because of her relationship with Noah. This book was awesome.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia works as a nanny and is interviewing with her dad's friend, Noah. Noah is going through a nasty divorce, has a 10 year old son and is a workaholic. He isn't sure if Olivia is a fit but his son, Elijah likes her. There is alot of chemistry between the two. Olivia brings calm and order to the house. She makes Noah see that he needs to make time for family. I love the banter between Olivia and Noah. What happens when the ex meets Olivia? Will Noah act on the chemistry? Will Olivia be in it for the long haul? Great story!!

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noah hires his best friend's daughter to be a nanny to his son. Sparks fly between them. Soon she is getting him to have a better work and family life, so he sees his son more. Its not long before things heat up between them. Will he risk his heart with Olivia? Can they be together?

This is a great story that will hook you in the first chapter. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[DesN2004 · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many tropes in one book!! I can't list them all as I don't want to give the book away. The characters are amazing, I loved the son Elijah. Noah and Olivia have the chemistry and banter down pat. I loved the interactions and the steam!! There were some parts that dragged just a little, but this was still an overall good story. I can see myself rereading down the road and buying for my library!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat McDonnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

He's a Grump alright!
Noah, newishly single father, over loaded with work and looming divorce battle, in comes Live with the right amount of sass to tame this Grump! Age gap romance with just the right amount of drama. This was the perfect read to get me out of my reading slump. Author Emma Blake writes beautifully and has a way with words that can really suck you into the story. Can't wait to read more of her books.

[Terra Oenning · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is absolutely so good that it will definitely have you hooked from the beginning until the end and the storyline flows throughout the book. Olivia gets hired by her fathers friend as a nanny but will his soon to be ex wife blackmail her? Noah has been battling his ex for a divorce but can he protect Olivia from her wrath? Great book , father's best friend and older man younger woman taboo.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[DoodlingDandelion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sassy, spicy, sweet and dramatic, that's what awaits you. The relationship between soon to be divorced Noah and the young nanny Olivia is H.O.T. If you enjoy older man and younger women stories, definitely give this one a try.And Noah's son is so adorable. The relationship between son and father is heartwarming, and helped to become stronger by Olivia. Worth a read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I had a smile on my face most of the way through reading it. There was a great deal of humor in this story. Liv became the nanny for her dad's best friend Noah. She fell in love with both the dad and the son. Noah's ex was a miserable person trying to cause trouble. Liv and Noah finally get their HEA. I look forward to reading more books from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JLH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Attracted to Nanny? check. Crazy Ex- that wants what she threw away? check. Drama n sass with all that class? lol could be a run on sentence that doesn't take a breather. Noah's son is very intelligent and knows that his Momma is up to no good and he will not be the pawn. This a second chance for Noah and son. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry One Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet age gap romance

This was a good read and a sweet romantic story. The main characters were like able and fun to read. There is humor, baggage, messy divorce, and age gap. The lead female character is just an amazing person and wonderful nanny. The lead male is not really a grumpy person, it’s more that he has been betrayed by his wife and is trying to finalize the divorce. Read On!