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Dads & Adages #2

You Don't Know Jack

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…And, apparently, neither does he.At 31, Jack Bradford’s life is looking just the way he wants it to. He literally lives in paradise (Surfers Paradise, but who’s counting?), loves his job as a firefighter, has a great group of friends and all the freedom his heart desires and nothing is about to change that. At least, that’s what he thinks.However, when a past lover comes knocking with an epic surprise of the ‘small human’ variety in tow, Jack’s perfectly curated life is upended. Hiring a nanny —a manny, in fact— to help him navigate unexpected parenthood couldn’t possibly complicate his situation any further, right?(Spoiler wrong!)Meanwhile, Leo Martin knows that he’s not what most people imagine when they hear the words ‘nanny’ or ‘au pair’. At 21 years old, most guys his age generally run screaming from the thought of looking after small children, but not him. Nope.Leo loves his job. It’s just the rest of his life that could use a spruce up, seeing as his recent breakup has left him homeless and his heart bruised. Naturally, being offered a job with room and board taken care of sounds like a dream…until he comes face to face with hot single dad, Jack, and discovers that he may have bitten off more than he can chew.With Jack discovering parts of himself he never knew existed, and Leo attempting to maintain professional boundaries, how will they navigate their way to their Happily Ever After?CW -Despite the bulk of the romance being tooth-rottingly sweet, this book does touch on some potentially triggering topics. These include some chauvinistic behaviours, ‘outing’ someone without their consent, the stress/trauma of raising children, self-doubt/anxiety, parental meddling, brief mentions of custody negotiations, mentions of cheating/infidelity (not on page or between the MCs), and discussion of homophobia and parental rejection.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 10, 2024

130 people are currently reading
210 people want to read

About the author

Anna Sparrows

25 books222 followers

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5 stars
279 (45%)
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243 (39%)
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77 (12%)
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15 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for atlas.
71 reviews19 followers
March 20, 2024
Anna Sparrows did it again, she managed to get me out of my depression cave, even if just for a few days, with this (yet another) adorably sweet and funny yet emotional read.

Jack became an instant favorite of mine as a side character in the first book of this series Where There's a Will (his dad's book) with his teasing but caring personality that showed through his interactions with his father. Seeing him go from a fun uncle figure to his stepsister with little to no responsibilities to a committed and loving father was such a sweet transition to read. He stepped up, and though of course it was an adjustment and he struggled at times, he became an amazing parent.

Leo was such a gem. He took no shit when it came to his job as a young, male nanny and was very caring and attentive towards Hudson and Preston (the twins) - his love really shined for his job and the boys. Though attracted to Jack he kept things professional and tried his best to keep boundaries even after their 'slip ups' 👀 both for the sake of the kids and to keep their relationship uncomplicated as boss/employee. Their chemistry was on fire and their dynamic genuinely had me laughing out loud so many times. Not only them but even banter with side characters and the kiddos, especially the kiddos! They had me wrapped around their little fingers from the start with their adorableness and wanting to protect them myself.

I really appreciated Jack's bi-awakening not being a stressful ordeal, how he slowly came to realize but still quickly accepted his attraction to Leo. Probably impacted by being surrounded by loving (and queer) friends and family.

The writing flowed and I clearly see how much the author has improved having read her first series Littles & Laces last year. If Anna Sparrows writes it, I read it <3
Profile Image for Ed Davis.
2,885 reviews99 followers
June 24, 2025
I have a problem with books that have a breakup right before the end. This is the second book in this series to have a big drama towards the end. It was a five star read for me up to that point. If this is something Anna Sparrows always does I don’t think I want to read any more of her books. I just don’t enjoy stories that make me feel bad. Unfortunately, I already have the third book in this series so I may read it sometime.
Profile Image for Lady Macbeth.
1,090 reviews30 followers
March 3, 2024
4.5 stars
I adored this story, there were so many things I loved!

First of all, the author's writing: it's fluid and easy, full of irony, banter, hot, emotional and sweet moments. I read it in one sitting, I couldn't put it down.

Second, the characters: I fell in love with Jack's sunshine personality in the first book of the series and he didn't disappoint me in this one. He's spontaneous, funny, charming, adorable with his little sister and I loved his relationship with his dad, Will. In this book he goes from an one-night-only type of guy to the most committed and focused parent in the world. He fell in love with his boys the second he met them and he did everything to raise them the right way.
Leo is also a wonderful man: he's young but he's very dedicated to his job, he's confident and smart, he's very competent and resourceful.
The little guys, Hudson and Preston, stole my heart: they're adorable and cute and I hope we'll see them in the following books.

Third, I particularly loved Jack's honesty: he was always straightforward and sincere, there was nothing artificial or deceitful about him. Especially regarding his attraction to Leo: he never tried to take advantage of him and he was always very attentive of his feelings.
I also loved their dynamic in bed and how both of them could be their true selves without judgement.
I also was very pleased with his conversation with his twin brother, Wes. He's also a great character, I don't know if the author has a bi awakening in store for him too (he seems very very straight, by his own words), but I'm not going to stop hoping for it.

What prevented me from giving 5 full stars:
Jack's reaction to his mother's one-sided decision disappointed me very much(I'm not going to say more to avoid spoilers).

I look forward to read the next book, I really really love this series and Anna Sparrows' style.
Definitely recommended!

You don't need to read the first book of the series, Where There's A Will, to enjoy this one. But that one was also so good, I wouldn't miss it if I were you.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Heather MMRomanceReviewed.
1,729 reviews83 followers
Read
March 13, 2024
First time dad... Bisexual awakening, boss/employee, age gap, outside interference, cute kids - all wrapped up in a gooey, sweet story with most of the angst coming from outside the main story. This was a quick and easy read, with the only thing I wasn't really happy with coming along with the third act break up... but the HEA was worth it.

If you like watching a man learn to become a toddler parent, discover his bisexuality and fall for the manny, you'll definitely want to pick up You Don't Know Jack. It can be read standalone, however there are many references to Where There's A Will and significant interaction with the mcs from that book that I highly recommend reading them in order.
Profile Image for Jamey.
75 reviews6 followers
May 14, 2024
Unlike the last book I read with kids in it, this felt like a much more realistic (and less annoying) portrayal of preschoolers – although, again, I’m not an expert or huge fan of children. I liked that even though it was a bi-awakening, the conflict wasn’t about Jack accepting his orientation or coming out; it was about being in a position of power over Leo and the effect it would have on his sons to lose their nanny. I also appreciated how the author didn’t demonize the mother or women in general, as often happens with this type of plot.

3.5/5 stars, rounded up to 4.
Profile Image for Courtney Cox.
137 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2024
This book is the second in its series, I love Anna Sparrows work, this was not the exception.
Jack is one of Wills twin sons, he’s a guy who lives for casual arrangements with one night stands, until suddenly one of his past partners turns up on his doorstep with two adorable like boys.
Jack is thrust into the life of fatherhood, the author didn’t make out that he was a perfect father from the beginning and actually portrayed some of the struggles of parenthood, it was nice seeing the sweet moments, and experiencing Jacks inner monologue about how stressed he was.
Enter Leo, the new live in nanny, he was so good with the twins, kind, sweet, attentive and actually had a back bone, wasn’t a push over and became more than just a nanny to the kids and Jack.
He also developed a nice friendship with Will and Connor and this was good for him after losing most of his friends from his previous breakup.
The chemistry between Jack and Leo was simmering until it suddenly sparked but because of their dynamic it was put on simmer again until they couldn’t stop themselves from indulging.
Jack has his bi-awakening and relationship awakening because of Leo, I like how the author eased into the sexual parts as some authors would go from 0-100 in a split second, none of it was rushed and it was a sensual experience.
Jacks mother really cannot read the room and she frustrated me a bit, a little overbearing and apparently none of them were willing to make boundaries and stop her from taking over, I know she’s the grandmother but she was so focused on them that she didn’t notice what everyone else noticed and seemed to believe that Leo and the twins weren’t attached when she tried to take over child care.
The twins mother should’ve tried harder to tell Jack about them, sometimes it’s laziness, I didn’t really like her all that much either. I get the struggles of motherhood but she knew where Jack lived and only tried a couple times.
On a negative side, I didn’t like the time jumps, usually weeks or months, we don’t get the story or see how they interact as these jumps are usually after a sexual scene and then all of a sudden we’re a month ahead, maybe that’s just me but as this is an honest review.

The ending was just the icing on the cake, it was adorable, funny and such a sweet moment.
Overall, I did love this book, for the characters in it, they were well written and sugary sweet.

I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest review.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews359 followers
March 13, 2024
A Time of Change . . .

Jack Bradford makes it clear from the start that he is not looking for a relationship or commitment. A single one-night-stand is more than enough. Steph wants to stick around, but that is not what he agreed to. He tried to be gentle explaining it to her. But despite knowing his “rules” she was very hurt and angry that he wouldn’t consider letting her stay. Four years later, heading out to a party, there is a knock at his door. A woman looking exhausted, hair messy and dark circles under her eyes, is holding a little boy on her hip and holds an identical boy by the hand. Her angry tone of voice identifies her immediately as Steph. Hudson and Preston are 3 years old, and they are his sons! She had deleted his phone number that night they had together; and he blocked her profile from the dating site. So she had no way to contact him. Even though they used protection, he could see they were his kids. She hadn’t bothered showing up on his doorstep before, but she just got laid off work and is being evicted. Her parents would take her in, but not the boys since they are in no condition to deal with that energy level. So she needs Jack to take the kids for now. His tiny apartment isn’t really big enough even for two little guys. But Jack also reminds her he is a firefighter with erratic shifts and can’t make this work. But she needs him to do this while she gets her life together. Once she leaves, the boys start crying for her and Jack has no clue how to handle this until his twin Wes calls, hears what happened, and the family arrives to support him however they can.

Jack and the kids will move in with his dad and Connor since they have the space. Connor suggested hiring a nanny or manny, especially with Jack’s variable schedule that doesn’t fit a daycare schedule. The agency suggested Leo Martin who is 21 years old and loves caring for kids. A job with room and board thrown in is particularly desirable. (And Leo is the most perfect manny you will ever meet! This story line is so full of love!) In no time at all, Leo is one of the family, fully accepted by the boys and their dad. As they all meld together into a terrific family, will Jack realize the attraction he is feeling is real? Is there a future possible for Jack and Leo? Or is this just wishful thinking?

Profile Image for Theodore.
933 reviews11 followers
April 26, 2024
Great follow up to the first book! Jack and Leo truly were a great pairing.

I feel like the story got a little too hung up on Jack chastising himself for his old ways, which honestly weren't even that bad to begin with. I mean, there's absolutely nothing wrong with not wanting more than a one night stand as long as you're clear with that and not leading people on, and he absolutely informed all the women he slept with of that.

If anything, it really was Steph's fault for giving up on contacting Jack so easily. He blocked you and made it difficult to communicate via phone. So? You know where he lives, nothing was stopping her from seeing him in person to inform him about his children. Though, I was happy that Steph didn't end up being a villain (similar to my feelings around Brandon from the first book)

I was pleasantly surprised when Jack took to parenting so easily, especially given how he literally got twins dropped on his doorstep. A little too easily imo, but that's really just an opinion.

Leo was alright as a character. Nothing super stand out from him as he was kind of just the typical "manny" character, but there's no need to reinvent the wheel. I kinda wish we got a little more of his personal conflict with his ex to go along with the his internal conflict around being attracted to Jack, but again just more of a personal preference here.

It felt a little weird that Wes wasn't really in the story more, considering how he's Jack's twin and Jack just became responsible for twins himself. I feel like there could've been some potential for interesting stories here, but I suppose Wes' smaller role tracks with what Jack was saying about drifting away from him.

I really enjoyed Connor and Will's roles in the story! Made sense to have them appear a lot especially given their close proximity. I kinda missed Henry, but he didn't really have a reason to show up (but I wished that his kid got to hang out with Vicky and the twins)

I'm wondering when Toby is going to get a story since he's been set up as a possible MC in the past couple of books now, but the next one up seems to be for some of the soccer friends. Will definitely be reading that one though!
Profile Image for Lindsey Middlemiss.
394 reviews13 followers
March 18, 2024
Sweet story of unexpected parenthood and falling in love for the first time, realising you're bisexual as you do.

What I liked...

The characters, especially Jack. He was a standout, secondary character in the first book, and his sunshiny nature shone through. He goes from being a fun uncle-figure to his baby step-sister and otherwise a charming, but one-night-only, no personal responsibilities kind of guy to being the best parent he knows how, falling in love with his boys the moment he meets them.

Leo was an absolute love. His commitment to his career despite the pushback because of his gender, sexual orientation and age is clear and I love his positive attitude despite all that life has thrown at him. The twins, Hudson and Preston, are adorable. And we get to see more of Will and Connor from book 1 of the series.

I appreciated Jack being quite laid back about his bi-awakening. It doesn't always have to be super stressful, especially when you have the role model of a loving gay dad. I really love the whole multi-generational queer family they have here.

What I didn't like so much...

Jack's mother's actions and his response were out of character and unrealistic IMO - no way was that in the best interests of 2 kids who have already been through so much (I'm not going to say more to avoid spoilers).

If you like an adorable single parent, bi-awakening romance, this is a definite recommendation! I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

You don't need to read the first book of the series, 'Where There's A Will', to enjoy this one. But that one was also adorable and gives extra context to this one, so why miss it?

In this you'll find:
✨MM Contemporary romance
✨Firefighter single Dad to twin boys
✨Gay nanny
✨Bi-awakening
✨Age gap
✨Unexpected parenting (to toddlers)
✨Parent leaving children unexpectedly
✨Interfering grandparent
✨Cheating ex
✨Outing someone without consent
✨Past rejection by bigoted parents
✨Australian Gold Coast setting
✨A HEA
871 reviews5 followers
May 21, 2024
4.5/5 On the face of it, this is a big walking cliche: playboy man learns he fathered children, hires a nanny, and falls in love with them. But the reality is much more nuanced than that, and the characters are three dimensional and compelling. Jack pivots immediately and does the right thing when he finds out about his kids. He’s smart enough to know he’s in over his head and can’t juggle his shifts and the kids, so he gets a nanny. He has no expectation of having any thoughts about this male nanny, and they take him by surprise as much as anyone. It really felt like he was falling for Leo the person (though there’s definitely attraction there), and I appreciated that a lot.

Leo, who immediately loves the kids and likes Jack, not only knows that starting something with his employer is a bad idea but he (mostly, lol) manages not to go there. Jack listens to his concerns, acknowledges them, and respects them. (I don’t know how often romance books seem to imply that if there is attraction there must be action. It drives me bonkers, so I really loved the boundaries and respect in this book, even if the romance lover in me wanted them to just be happy and get together, lol.)

I like that these two communicate, spend a lot of time together, and genuinely prioritise the children. I love how self-possessed and confident Leo (usually) is, and how we get to play with expectations of preferences based on body type. I love how open and accepting Jack is.

I was really annoyed with Jack’s mom coming in like a wrecking ball, but she mostly managed to redeem herself in the end. I liked how fiercely the book defended coming out on one’s own terms (with the exception of the moment with Leo and Toby. I found that a bit odd given the rest of the book.) This is such an awesome family and friend group, and I’m looking forward to more.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
540 reviews7 followers
March 13, 2024
This is a very cute second book of a series for Anna Sparrows. In this book, you will find surprise twins bi-awakening, nanny/employer. You get to watch the struggles of Jack, trying to raise his twin boys, who for sure give him a run for his money. You will see characters from the first book make appearances throughout this book. You do not need to read the first book, but I would highly recommend that you do to get a better understanding of the story. This book is angst with a hard, fought happy ending for sure.
Profile Image for Maureen.
3,705 reviews39 followers
April 14, 2024
This awesome story had several tropes I always enjoy, age gap, Manny for hire, and gay for you, all rolled into one amazing read. Jack is straight and a hook up and leave kind of guy, no relationships than you very much. Well that ended up with a smack in the face. Leo, meanwhile, is a sweet, slender twink looking for a job. Opposites attract, right? A very enjoyable tale, a teensy bit angsty but mostly touching.
Profile Image for Talia.
86 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2024
I received an ARC for a review of this book.

You Don't Know Jack was a sweet story about Jack who finds out that some super sketchy past behaviour has resulted in surprise twins. Don't worry though, Jack definitely sees the error or his ways and he redeems himself wonderfully. The book technically features an age gap but Jack's sunshiny nature and Leo's old soul eat up that space easily.

The story centers around Jack, a firefighter in his early thirties, and Leo, a kind-hearted and patient man in his early twenties who becomes the manny to Jack's surprise you're a dad twin sons . What begins as a professional arrangement soon evolves into a deep emotional connection as Jack finds himself drawn to Leo's compassionate nature and unwavering support. Catching Leo in downward dog in his living room helped too.

While Jack has to come to terms with being a new dad, Leo has to grapple with a recent breakup and the push/pull of his attraction to Jack while trying not to jeapardize a job he both needs and loves. Jack tried so hard to respect Leo's wishes that they maintain a professional relationship I really couldn't see how this was going to end for the pair of them but you all know I'm only here for the HEA and these two definitely get theirs. The spice was pretty surprising but only because I haven't read an MM romance with a size difference where the buff firefighter likes to bottom. Not gonna lie, it was totally hot.

In all this was a super quick easy read. I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and 🌶🌶🌶
Profile Image for BOOKGIRLIE4LIFE.
61 reviews1 follower
April 24, 2025
I downloaded this book on a Stuff your Kindle day and man am I ever glad that I did.
I have been on a bit of a dark romance kick lately and when I read the description of this book it hooked me.
Right from the get go this new to me author sucked me right in 1) who isn't a sucker for a hot aussie, firefighter to boot 2) the twists started within the 1st 10% of the book which I loved C)those twins stole my heart immediately
This book is the right amount of angsty, cute, soulful and real. The issues Jack goes through are literal things that happen in real like and he handled them like a champ and wasn't afraid to ask for help. His relationship with his boys grows so quickly and into a beautiful family dynamic that wouldn't be complete without the Twinky Manny Leo...who holds my heart with his endearing nature and his undeniable love for the boys and then for Jack.
The chemistry between the two mounts so naturally that it was no surprise they fell for each other even though they both tried not to. Jack's acceptance of his changing sexuality was lovely and just like with the boys coming into his life he didn't let it phase him.
The interesting sexual dynamic was such a welcoming change. For Jack the big masculine firefighter to beg Leo the adorable little twink was super refreshing and it was so natural for them to come together in that way.
This book was a wonderful change to my norm, the emotions this book pulled out of me were just what I needed and I will definitely be reading the rest of this series and more from this author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
348 reviews5 followers
March 13, 2024
This book is so easy to read, it had me from the start and I read it in one go, I had to know how everything turned out. The humour, the angst, the love and support, 5 stars (it would be more if I could).

Jack's life changes in a rough, but rewarding way, it was beautiful to read how Jack stepped up without question (though of course he had doubts and feelings of not being able to cope) he changed his ways, and loved his twins without hesitation.

It was fun reading how Jack tried to work out what he was feeling for Leo, grappling with jealousy, coming to grips with his feelings, but also trying to navigate the situation with not wanting to jeopardize Leo as his Manny.

It's even the small things, the way Jack changes his swear words, mid swear when he is around the twins.

And Leo, despite his age and the challenges from his past, his steady and unflappable nature, how he unapologetically shows his true self to those around him and the way he guides, supports and grows to love his twin charges, all the feelings.

I love how real the book feels, at times, it seems like it is imparting important life lessons.

Anna Sparrows has become one of my must read authors, they release it, I will read it, the books just seem to keep getting better and I am impatiently awaiting the next book. Also, Toby, please tell me he is going to get a story too!
Profile Image for Mandy.
4,883 reviews46 followers
March 17, 2024
Thirty-one-year-old firefighter Jack Bradford has a wonderful life with good friends and a new girl every night habit. However, when a past lover comes knocking with an epic surprise of the ‘small human’ variety in tow, Jack’s life is upended. Hiring a nanny to help him navigate unexpected parenthood is a must. Twenty-one-year-old Leo Martin knows that he’s not what most people imagine when they hear the words ‘nanny’ or ‘au pair’ but he loves his job. A recent breakup has left him homeless and his heart bruised so being offered a job with room and board taken care of sounds like a dream but single dad Jack is hot so it is going to be a struggle to remain professional. With Jack discovering parts of himself he never knew existed, and Leo attempting to maintain professional boundaries, how will they navigate their way to their Happily Ever After?

I enjoyed this story with the not-so-straight Jack, the bubbly Leo and the story of two adorable little boys. I loved Leo who made behaving well or learning fun by using subtle bribes that did not feel like bribes and the clueless Jack who was willing to learn and do the best for the adorable bundles of joy he was suddenly responsible for. Lots of emotions and feelings in this story that were sensitively handled. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
Profile Image for Ζωή Παππά.
Author 3 books29 followers
March 4, 2024
"You don't know Jack" is the second book in the series but you can read it as a standalone. In this book we follow Jack who is a firefighter in his thirties and unexpectantly finds out he has 3 year old twin sons and Leo his new nanny.
I really loved Jack's journey. He tried so hard to be a good father for his sons and make up for the lost time and his bi awakening story was also very realistic and beautiful. As a parent and a bisexual person I really connected with him and found him very relatable.
Leo, his love interest was very smart and kind and wonderful with Jack's kids. They both had feelings for each other but I liked that they didn't start a relationship right way. They took into consideration that Leo was working for Jack and that they had to protect the kids' feelings as well. They were very respectful of each other and I just loved that very much.
Their chemistry was absolutely explosive and I adored the dynamic between them.
I had a wonderful time reading Jack and Leo's journey to happily ever after. I devoured this book. If you are in the mood for a mm contemporary romance I would highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Traci S.
2,015 reviews12 followers
March 11, 2024
This was wonderful, I enjoyed it as much as the first Book, Where There’s a Will. I remember how that ended and was really looking forward to to Jack’s story - which did not disappoint. Jack is charming and I liked how forthright he is, it’s pretty rare how direct and open he is. I also loved his relationship with his twin brother Wes and dad Will, their support of each other was a highlight. Leo is also lovely and I have a weakness for manny stories and this one is very well done. I’m a fan of this author’s writing, it has really good flow, excellent dialogue, and it is so easy to connect with the characters. My favorite parts of this were when Leo, Jack, Preston, and Hudson are getting to know each other and watching Jack and his boys fall for Leo. I didn’t love the eleventh hour drama caused by Jack’s steamrolling mother, and I really wish Jack had Leo’s back in that moment. They of course sort it out and the ending is very satisfying, loving this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Susi June.
237 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2025
I know it is my own fault to read a age gap romance when I don't like them.
I thought I could ignore the fact that Jack is 31 and Leo 21!! but nope, can't ignore it. I can't with this age difference. I'm 33 and can't imagine dating a 23 year old person let alone a 21 year old one! I mean come on, 21 is way too young for someone in their 30s!! But the age gap wasn't even the only part I disliked.
They repeated the whole 'i'm attracted to him, let's fuck, shit that was a mistake' spiel so often. I was glad after I finished the book, I wasn't in some kind of groundhog day scenario.
There were parts where I couldn't roll my eyes hard enough and I tried! For me personally, it was not fun to read it, I probably should have dnf'd it tbh. I just wanted to finish the book.
Also Jack? Amazing. Leo on the other hand, annoyed me so so much.
When somebody says "give me space" and the other person does it, since when does the person that gave the space have to apologize because he gave space?
Normally I really love Anna Sparrows books, at least the shifter ones I read.
2,104 reviews17 followers
February 6, 2024
I am in love with Jack and this book! I don't know if I am allowed to leave my hubby of 47 years for a fictional character but I would. Jack is admirable, pulling up his big girl panties, accepting easily his bi sexuality and responsibilities, loving and open. I wouldn't mind being his manny, Leo who is confidant, caring, creative and intelligent. We get to hear from Connor and Will again plus other friends and family. There are genuine laugh out loud moments involving potty training banter between the boys and children so adorable, it makes you actually want kids. And so many romantic, achingly sweet and hot, hot, hot times. This book moved into my "number one favorite Anna book ever" spot, a mark that gets refilled with every one of her books. I don't know how she makes me love each one or each couple more than ever but it happens. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Breanna.
260 reviews
March 13, 2024
This book captivated me from the start; I devoured it in one sitting, eager to see how everything unfolded. The blend of humor, angst, and unwavering support throughout hooked me. When Jack gets handed twin little boys he didn't know existed; he needs some help, so he hires Leo to be their manny.

Jack's unwavering commitment to stepping up for his twins was heartwarming despite his doubts and fears. His evolution of feelings for Leo, from jealousy to embracing his true emotions while navigating their unique dynamic, was engaging. With his resilient nature and unwavering authenticity, Leo was a steady force amidst life's challenges, showcasing genuine growth and love for the boys.

I was happy the author didn't create the mother as evil, as most books do, and they could compromise and co-parent. Sparrows is becoming a one-click author; I know I can count on them to get me a sweet book that leaves me wanting more.
Profile Image for Jess A Jaye.
520 reviews20 followers
March 20, 2024
I am loving this series and I think I fall in love with Anna's writing and her characters more and more with every book.
In Where There's a Will we met Will's son Jack and this book is his story. Jack's world is tipped upside down when a one-night stand turns up on his doorstep with not one but two little surprises with her. Overnight Jack finds that his easy life over as he's now a daddy to twin toddler boys (who were adorable). In need of up help Jack hires Leo as a nanny for his boys. Anna has done the daddy and the manny trope really well in this book. It felt really organic how Jack and Leo became closer and feelings developed for each other. I loved how Jack goes with the flow with the big life changes - he proves to be a great dad and doesn't question his feelings for another man for the first time.
And Leo was perfect guy for him - vulnerable, sweet but would fight like a bear for Jack's boys.
Really hope we see more of this family in this series.
Profile Image for Lana  (Lore & Lullabies).
175 reviews37 followers
May 6, 2024
This book is Jacked in the best way possible

I was told this was better than the first book 'Where There's A Will' which I thought would be a stretch because I loved it so much, but this!!! OMG so much yes to everything that happens in this book.

We follow Jack, Will's son in this second book. It is a direct/ immediate continuation from the first so was happy to be able to binge them back to back.

We see some of our favourites from the first and meet some new ones which really just rounds out the history And depth of this world amd their close knit family.

Could not put thos down
Read it in one day and stayed up way passed my bed time. Totally worth it. No regrets. I really hope there is another bok for Toby and maybe one other that MAY have been hinted at (though that is probably more my wishful thinking)

Wholesome, heart warming, with the perfect amount of spice
62 reviews
March 20, 2024
This book was a 5 star read for me! I absolutely adored this story!!

Firstly Anna sparrows talent is drawing you in with her story telling. The story flowed really well. It has amazing banter between the two MCs but also the MCs from the first book. It was spicy and sweet and had all the feels.

Tropes:
Single dad
Bi-Awakening
A bit of lace
Falling for the manny
Age gap

The characters: I fell in love with Jack - his sweet, honest, open, sunshine personality just makes you love him. Jack goes from a man who doesn’t want more then a one night stand to one of the most committed fathers.

“He’s such a great dad.
He’s patient and kind,
he never yells or lets them see his frustration…
and they love him so, so much.” -Leo

His sons Hudson and Preston are just adorable, typical toddlers who you just can’t say no too. Jacks relationship with his father is just *chefs kiss*
Leo is so sweet, so kind and super cute. Although he is young he is extremely great at his job. He fits so perfectly into Jacks life and helps hims when he desperately needs it. And the boys love him.

The relationship between Jack and Leo is beautiful. I cannot explain how much I loved these two!! They are my heart

Covering his hands, I still his frantic movements.
“We’ve got time,” I murmur against his lips.
“I’m not going anywhere. And,” I rub my nose against his affectionately,
“I’m not setting any limits this time.
No more ‘one night only’, I promise.”
“Thank fuck for that,” he whispers back,
before kissing me again.

One thing I was a little disappointed with, was the way Jack handles his mum. It really upset me. But I will let you be the judge!!

I cannot wait until the next book!!!! This series is amazing 😻





***ARC Review****
Profile Image for Bluemoonchild.
219 reviews3 followers
March 12, 2024
This book! I've read all of the author's work and Jack might be my favorite of her characters.

Commitment-phobic Jack finds out he's a father when a former one-night stand reappears and leaves their twin toddlers with him. Self-aware enough to admit he's in over his head, he hires a nanny and, like a cliche, finds himself falling for his new employee.

Unlike a cliche, the nanny is male and super-hetero Jack finds himself in the midst of a very nonchalant bi-awakening. If you've read the first book in the series, this won't seem contrived or improbable. If anything, it will make sense because of who his father is.

Without giving more away, this book is absolutely charming, with low angst and all the sweetness you can handle from the cutest pair of toddlers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for MeadowsLovesBooks.
260 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2024
You Don’t Know Jack by Anna Sparrows
Book 2, Dads and Adages

When Jack gets the surprise of a lifetime in the form of 3 year old twin boys, he decides to hire Leo, a highly recommended manny.

Having Leo there, living in his apartment, doing all these little helpful things all the time, hanging out with his family and the care he shows the boys really endears him to Jack more each day.

When things get steamy they decide that nothing can come of it. The kids mean too much to Leo to mess things up, plus Jack is his boss. This is a direct trip to heartache and unemployment. How will they ever get to a happy ever after?

In true Anna style this read was super sweet and pretty low angst. Loved all the cameo’s of characters from book 1. Highly recommend!!

✨ Firefighters
✨ Cute manny
✨ Size difference
✨ Single Dad
✨ Age gap
✨ Bi awakening
Profile Image for Belinda Zamora.
2,681 reviews8 followers
March 21, 2024
Charming

Jack is living his life carefree.
Suddenly a surprise package on his doorstep with the sweetest babies.
He's a father and he has no idea how to be one.
He desperately needs help and that comes in the guise of Leo, a manny.
There's an instant attraction but Jack's straight, isn't he!?
I really enjoyed their story.
There's plenty of laugh out loud moments and also the harder parts of being a single parent which I know so very well.
There's struggles, pain, loneliness, the soul crushing anxiety and fear that you're not good enough and that you're completely ruining their childhood.
That's par for the course but having Leo there helps to lessen the burden.
I'm glad they got their well deserved HEA.
312 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2024
4.5 stars!
The second in the series, this book can easily be read as a standalone with *minor* details lost out on, although I highly recommend reading the whole series.

Jack gets a surprise in the form of two rambunctious 3-year-olds and needs to overhaul his life to make everything fit. Leo needs a better man, a steady income and a roof over his head.
The math is mathing!

The sparks flew between these two and I loved the conflict that arose! I'm not normally a fan of "4th act" drama - it's usually so forced - but this was central to the story and made a lot of sense!

I loved the little breadcrumbs for the next story and can't wait to see where this series goes!
Profile Image for Juniper.
3,391 reviews24 followers
March 12, 2024
This is the second book in a series but the romance can stand alone. Leo and Jack are each likable characters and their chemistry is strong in both physical and emotional dimensions. I appreciated the moments in the story that shaded more toward the realistic than the idealized— parenting is not always sunshine and smiles, setting boundaries can be hard (or impossible) and a bi awakening doesn’t go from zero to 100 in the space of a single encounter, and I’m here for all of that. Overall, a rewarding read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
5 reviews
March 13, 2024
This is my favourite Anna Sparrows book yet! It's sweet, it's sexy, the characters are so human and relatable that I swear Anna has written about REAL people. One of my favourite things about this author is the way they sprinkle in the banter between characters, it's so witty and clever and delivers several laugh out loud moments throughout. I was glued to this book because I HAD to know what was going to happen, but at the same time there was never a lull where I was wanting things to hurry up because the writing was so good at keeping my attention at any point in the story. Just a delightful book!
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