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Totally Schooled
Nolan
I’m a teacher who has only one thing missing from his life: a healthy relationship.
I have a plan in place. This should be easy.
No more toxic men. No more casual hookups.
I want something real. A love that’s equal, not lopsided.
I’m a fixer at heart, but I’m done with the hopeless and the selfish.
Rafe
I’m a dad. Pure and simple.
The only thing I want is for my daughter to be happy and healthy.
I keep my head down. I work like crazy, and I found her a great school in a new place.
I don’t have time for anything else but her.
She has my heart, leaving little for anyone else.
When this kindergarten teacher and single father come together, something has to give. Lines are crossed. Secrets are shared. Hearts shatter.
Who knows?
Maybe they can teach each other something.
I’m a teacher who has only one thing missing from his life: a healthy relationship.
I have a plan in place. This should be easy.
No more toxic men. No more casual hookups.
I want something real. A love that’s equal, not lopsided.
I’m a fixer at heart, but I’m done with the hopeless and the selfish.
Rafe
I’m a dad. Pure and simple.
The only thing I want is for my daughter to be happy and healthy.
I keep my head down. I work like crazy, and I found her a great school in a new place.
I don’t have time for anything else but her.
She has my heart, leaving little for anyone else.
When this kindergarten teacher and single father come together, something has to give. Lines are crossed. Secrets are shared. Hearts shatter.
Who knows?
Maybe they can teach each other something.
244 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2021
136 people are currently reading
1334 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,542 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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May 15, 2025
Totally Schooled is a stand alone MM romance by Nicole Dykes. This is my very first book by this author. I enjoyed getting to know these two men so much and the little girl was adorable.
First, I want to introduce you to my favorite of these two, Nolan Burke. Nolan is twenty nine years old. He has been a kindergarten teacher for five years and loves his job. He’s a wonderful teacher and the kids love him. Nolan has a tendency to seek out men for relationships that are broken, that need help. He is a fixer. He convinces himself that if he can help them in some way, that this will be a forever relationship. Unfortunately, it never turns out that way. So, he has sworn off these toxic relationships and sworn off hook ups. He wants to find a forever kind of guy. He wants the type of love his parents have. I adored his parents by the way. And I adored Nolan.
Rafe Scott is twenty four years old and is a single father to an adorable five year old daughter, Hailey. Rafe and Hailey have just moved to town and Hailey is enrolled to start kindergarten. Rafe is a good dad. He is working construction to support them but also moonlights when he is able to as a bartender to earn extra money for the things Hailey needs. At the open house when the children get to meet their new teachers, and Rafe and Nolan see each other for the first time, it’s that instant spark I always love. They were both pretty much bowled over by the other, of course, neither knowing a single thing about each other. From the start, though, Hailey also loves her new teacher. They bond immediately.
Since Rafe is so new in town, he’s pretty much alone and Nolan tries to be there to help. The spark they shared only grows. Poor Nolan. Rafe is his student’s father. Becoming involved would most definitely be breaking rules. He loves teaching and doesn’t want to jeopardize that. But Rafe convinces him that a little fun won’t hurt anything. They can keep it a secret. Only, didn’t Nolan just promise himself that he wanted a forever relationship? A little fun definitely isn’t what he had in mind. But could it be eventually?
Have I mentioned that I love Nolan? And while I did love Rafe in the beginning and feel horrible about what he’s been through, he sort of started to wear on me later on. I can’t say more about it without spoiling anything but he did redeem himself by the end.
This was a sweet, sexy romance with two men who both deserved to find their HEA’s. The epilogue was wonderful. I will definitely be looking through more of this author’s work in the future.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
First, I want to introduce you to my favorite of these two, Nolan Burke. Nolan is twenty nine years old. He has been a kindergarten teacher for five years and loves his job. He’s a wonderful teacher and the kids love him. Nolan has a tendency to seek out men for relationships that are broken, that need help. He is a fixer. He convinces himself that if he can help them in some way, that this will be a forever relationship. Unfortunately, it never turns out that way. So, he has sworn off these toxic relationships and sworn off hook ups. He wants to find a forever kind of guy. He wants the type of love his parents have. I adored his parents by the way. And I adored Nolan.
Rafe Scott is twenty four years old and is a single father to an adorable five year old daughter, Hailey. Rafe and Hailey have just moved to town and Hailey is enrolled to start kindergarten. Rafe is a good dad. He is working construction to support them but also moonlights when he is able to as a bartender to earn extra money for the things Hailey needs. At the open house when the children get to meet their new teachers, and Rafe and Nolan see each other for the first time, it’s that instant spark I always love. They were both pretty much bowled over by the other, of course, neither knowing a single thing about each other. From the start, though, Hailey also loves her new teacher. They bond immediately.
Since Rafe is so new in town, he’s pretty much alone and Nolan tries to be there to help. The spark they shared only grows. Poor Nolan. Rafe is his student’s father. Becoming involved would most definitely be breaking rules. He loves teaching and doesn’t want to jeopardize that. But Rafe convinces him that a little fun won’t hurt anything. They can keep it a secret. Only, didn’t Nolan just promise himself that he wanted a forever relationship? A little fun definitely isn’t what he had in mind. But could it be eventually?
Have I mentioned that I love Nolan? And while I did love Rafe in the beginning and feel horrible about what he’s been through, he sort of started to wear on me later on. I can’t say more about it without spoiling anything but he did redeem himself by the end.
This was a sweet, sexy romance with two men who both deserved to find their HEA’s. The epilogue was wonderful. I will definitely be looking through more of this author’s work in the future.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 16, 2021
Totally Schooled is an MM Standalone, single father/teacher. My first book from the author and certainly not my last.
I am highly impressed with the author's writing. Not only did Rafe and Nolan steal my heart. But one cute, sassy six-year-old girl stole it and wrapped herself in my soul.
Rafe, a single father of the cutest little girl. New in town and very protective of his daughter. Has a very small support system. You will swoon over him. How he handles his family and the sacrifice he has made at such a young age. Plus, he is sinfully hot.
Nolan, kindergarten teacher, tired of failed relationships and hookups. Just wants a steady relationship like his parents. Made a promise to himself, no more casual, and stop trying to fix people. When is dresses up as Clark Kent for Halloween, 🥵. My Kryptonite.
When Rafe and Nolan first lay eyes on each other, it’s an instant attraction. Nolan sees red flags and tries to deny anything but a friendship with Rafe. We all know all that it does is add more fuel to the fire.
Not only is this book sweet and emotional, but it’s also spicy. The author touches on real-life topics and I love how she portrayed them in this book. Totally schooled is a one-click, must-read book.
I am highly impressed with the author's writing. Not only did Rafe and Nolan steal my heart. But one cute, sassy six-year-old girl stole it and wrapped herself in my soul.
Rafe, a single father of the cutest little girl. New in town and very protective of his daughter. Has a very small support system. You will swoon over him. How he handles his family and the sacrifice he has made at such a young age. Plus, he is sinfully hot.
Nolan, kindergarten teacher, tired of failed relationships and hookups. Just wants a steady relationship like his parents. Made a promise to himself, no more casual, and stop trying to fix people. When is dresses up as Clark Kent for Halloween, 🥵. My Kryptonite.
When Rafe and Nolan first lay eyes on each other, it’s an instant attraction. Nolan sees red flags and tries to deny anything but a friendship with Rafe. We all know all that it does is add more fuel to the fire.
Not only is this book sweet and emotional, but it’s also spicy. The author touches on real-life topics and I love how she portrayed them in this book. Totally schooled is a one-click, must-read book.
November 4, 2021
4.5
Oh the sweetness 😍😍😍
Nicole Dykes is a new to me author but I can already tell you i'm gonna read more from her!
Totally Schooled is Rafe and Nolan' story.
Rafe is a young dad, with a difficult past.
He feel like he doesn't deserve happiness, so his only concerne is for her adorable daughter.
But when he meet for the first time her daughter's kindergarten teacher, something else, or better someone else, start haunting his thoughts.
Nolan is a kindergarten teacher.
He is not very lucky in love: he is too kind and selfless for his own good.
When he first meet Rafe, there's an instant attraction. But he is his daughter's teacher so nothing can really happens...right?!
Page after page we come to know these two beautiful men and fall for them, for the way they interact to each, for the way they interact with the little Hailey, for the support they get from some of the secondary characters *swoon*.
I have to admit that Rafe makes us wait way too long for the HEA he deserves (yeah I wanted to slap him in the head more than once) but it's worth it 😍
This book stirred inside me the purest emotions; it left me with a stupid smile and a content feeling.
I'm a dark romance lover, but I have to tell you that this is the kind of book sometimes we truly need.
Oh the sweetness 😍😍😍
Nicole Dykes is a new to me author but I can already tell you i'm gonna read more from her!
Totally Schooled is Rafe and Nolan' story.
Rafe is a young dad, with a difficult past.
He feel like he doesn't deserve happiness, so his only concerne is for her adorable daughter.
But when he meet for the first time her daughter's kindergarten teacher, something else, or better someone else, start haunting his thoughts.
Nolan is a kindergarten teacher.
He is not very lucky in love: he is too kind and selfless for his own good.
When he first meet Rafe, there's an instant attraction. But he is his daughter's teacher so nothing can really happens...right?!
Page after page we come to know these two beautiful men and fall for them, for the way they interact to each, for the way they interact with the little Hailey, for the support they get from some of the secondary characters *swoon*.
I have to admit that Rafe makes us wait way too long for the HEA he deserves (yeah I wanted to slap him in the head more than once) but it's worth it 😍
This book stirred inside me the purest emotions; it left me with a stupid smile and a content feeling.
I'm a dark romance lover, but I have to tell you that this is the kind of book sometimes we truly need.
Read
November 17, 2021Dnf at 30% this was a m/m single dad/forbidden relationship trope bc one of the hero is a teacher the other is the parent of one of the students. This was very insta-love which i don’t really enjoy, it didn’t intrigue me I lost interest and here we are! 😒
November 7, 2021
"I never thought I could have it all. Not until I met the teacher that totally schooled me on every subject."
I am really hitting the jackpot with my reading recently - and here's yet another M/M delight from Nicole Dykes 💚🤍.
Totally Schooled is my second M/M read from Nicole Dykes and I totally loved it. Rafe and Nolan were completely gorgeous and there was absolutely nothing toxic about their relationship. Sometimes it's just nice to read a book that doesn't have you sobbing and wailing and stressing about how the heck the MCs will ever find their HEA 😉.
Rafe's 5 year old daughter Hailey (also Nolan's student) adds an extra dimension to the story, and there's also the element of a forbidden relationship because Nolan is her teacher. Rafe is a single dad and totally adores his daughter, valuing her happiness above his own.
There's some angst due to past trauma and homophobia (off page) but both our MCs are out and happy in their skin. Oh and there's steam 🔥. Quite a lot of steam 🔥🔥🔥.
This is a standalone and comes highly recommended in this genre.
4 ✨✨✨✨
I am really hitting the jackpot with my reading recently - and here's yet another M/M delight from Nicole Dykes 💚🤍.
Totally Schooled is my second M/M read from Nicole Dykes and I totally loved it. Rafe and Nolan were completely gorgeous and there was absolutely nothing toxic about their relationship. Sometimes it's just nice to read a book that doesn't have you sobbing and wailing and stressing about how the heck the MCs will ever find their HEA 😉.
Rafe's 5 year old daughter Hailey (also Nolan's student) adds an extra dimension to the story, and there's also the element of a forbidden relationship because Nolan is her teacher. Rafe is a single dad and totally adores his daughter, valuing her happiness above his own.
There's some angst due to past trauma and homophobia (off page) but both our MCs are out and happy in their skin. Oh and there's steam 🔥. Quite a lot of steam 🔥🔥🔥.
This is a standalone and comes highly recommended in this genre.
4 ✨✨✨✨
October 31, 2021
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
It isn't often anymore that a book can make me stay up until past midnight reading because I can't put it down. Totally Schooled was that book! Rafe, Nolan & Hailey won my heart almost immediately. There were moments where both Rafe & Nolan got on my everlasting nerve because the feelings were there but their communication GAH!! It made total sense though, both men had been through so much in the past that they were terrified in their own way about falling for someone. The attraction was immediate and that can be terrifying as hell but when you throw a child into the mix that can only complicate things more.
Nicole Dykes is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors because her ability to make you fall in love with characters, even side characters is impressive. It is not a slow fall; it is an immediate love where you want nothing more than these characters to get to their HEA and when they struggle it breaks your heart. My love for teacher romances is very known but this was a new take for me, and I loved it more than I can describe. Nolan probably won my heart a bit more than Rafe just because I could relate to his struggles and that always gets me right in the feels.
I've heard we will get a book on Gavin; Nolan's best friend and I am thrilled because I know we will get to see Rafe, Nolan & Hailey again.
It isn't often anymore that a book can make me stay up until past midnight reading because I can't put it down. Totally Schooled was that book! Rafe, Nolan & Hailey won my heart almost immediately. There were moments where both Rafe & Nolan got on my everlasting nerve because the feelings were there but their communication GAH!! It made total sense though, both men had been through so much in the past that they were terrified in their own way about falling for someone. The attraction was immediate and that can be terrifying as hell but when you throw a child into the mix that can only complicate things more.
Nicole Dykes is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors because her ability to make you fall in love with characters, even side characters is impressive. It is not a slow fall; it is an immediate love where you want nothing more than these characters to get to their HEA and when they struggle it breaks your heart. My love for teacher romances is very known but this was a new take for me, and I loved it more than I can describe. Nolan probably won my heart a bit more than Rafe just because I could relate to his struggles and that always gets me right in the feels.
I've heard we will get a book on Gavin; Nolan's best friend and I am thrilled because I know we will get to see Rafe, Nolan & Hailey again.
May 13, 2022
4 Stars
My little heart is happy. This book just made me happy and melted my heart. It had one of my favorite tropes, single dad, and it was very amazing.
I loved Nolan and Rafe. Their relationship and overall their lil' family. This is definitely a sweet read. I recommend. Toodles!
My little heart is happy. This book just made me happy and melted my heart. It had one of my favorite tropes, single dad, and it was very amazing.
I loved Nolan and Rafe. Their relationship and overall their lil' family. This is definitely a sweet read. I recommend. Toodles!
June 17, 2022
4.5 i absolutely loved Nolen & Rafe. We even get a bonus munchkin Hailey.
The single dad trope always makes me swoon.
Single dad has heart eyes for his daughter’s kindergarten teacher the moment they meet & their chemistry is undeniable . Unfortunately Rafe has past trauma feels he doesnt deserve love. 🥺
Absolutely loved the Epilogue
Tw: drug abuse/overdose
The single dad trope always makes me swoon.
Single dad has heart eyes for his daughter’s kindergarten teacher the moment they meet & their chemistry is undeniable . Unfortunately Rafe has past trauma feels he doesnt deserve love. 🥺
Absolutely loved the Epilogue
Tw: drug abuse/overdose
April 11, 2023
reread April 2023
3.5/5 stars
3.5/5 stars
November 30, 2024
This is my second (of many more) Nicole Dykes books and I loved it! Not a surprise at all of course, I love her writing style, cadence and flow. Rafe and Nolan were easy characters to root for because of how well developed they are right away. This story of grief, acceptance and forgiving yourself was so beautifully written 🥹
Rafe really was a lovable but frustrating character and it was super understandable due to his history but also very frustrating! I wanted to smack him upside his hard head 🤯 I definitely think again that’s a testament to Nicole’s writing that I was actually getting mad at a fictional man 😂
Nolan was such a perfect, angel bby and had the patience of a saint 😇 I related to him a lot with his need to take care of people so badly that it was detrimental to his own well being sometimes.
This is a single dad romance and I actually loved the little girlie just like everyone else in this book did. I was happy when they finally worked things out, it felt so hard won and worth it by the end. I can’t wait to read more books from Nicole Dykes 🤎
Rafe really was a lovable but frustrating character and it was super understandable due to his history but also very frustrating! I wanted to smack him upside his hard head 🤯 I definitely think again that’s a testament to Nicole’s writing that I was actually getting mad at a fictional man 😂
Nolan was such a perfect, angel bby and had the patience of a saint 😇 I related to him a lot with his need to take care of people so badly that it was detrimental to his own well being sometimes.
This is a single dad romance and I actually loved the little girlie just like everyone else in this book did. I was happy when they finally worked things out, it felt so hard won and worth it by the end. I can’t wait to read more books from Nicole Dykes 🤎
November 20, 2024
4.5 stars. This is one of this authors older books and I absolutely loved it! I listened to the audiobook and the narrators were awesome. This is also a standalone and not related to any other books as far as I know.
I really liked Nolan as a character. He tried so hard to be good and professional and keep everything in the friend zone but sometime the heart wants what it wants! I totally get why Rafe is the way he is but I really wish he would have handled some things differently. I loved his little daughter Hailey. She was so cute and sweet and outgoing and just such a joy to read about.
Overall, even though they had a hard time getting there, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend!
I really liked Nolan as a character. He tried so hard to be good and professional and keep everything in the friend zone but sometime the heart wants what it wants! I totally get why Rafe is the way he is but I really wish he would have handled some things differently. I loved his little daughter Hailey. She was so cute and sweet and outgoing and just such a joy to read about.
Overall, even though they had a hard time getting there, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend!
May 19, 2022
I deleted my review on accident!! 😭😭😭
Very good story!! 🌟😍
Very good story!! 🌟😍
August 2, 2023
Totally Schooled by Nicole Dykes ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
✨ Mini review ✨
💙 Single Dad
💙 Kindergarten Teacher
💙 Insta-lust
💙 Found Family
I didn't know what to expect from this story going in but somehow it was even better than I anticipated. While this book has its sweet moments, it also deals with some heavier topics and you can deeply feel the struggle that the characters go through.
Because of his past, Rafe sees himself as undeserving of love and thinks he will destroy anyone he gets close to. Given everything he's been through it takes time for him to see that he deserves to be happy, yet he's still a loving, compassionate person and an amazing father from the very start.
Nolan is such a sweet man and I wanted nothing more than for him to get his happy ending. Both the MCs, along with Rafe's daughter Hailey, were such fantastic characters and all fitted so well together. This was such a wonderful story and will definitely be added to my reread stack!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): brief mention of self-harm/overdose not by the main characters (occurs off-page). There’s also mention in this book of a time where one character was trying to please others and not live his truth.
CW (from me): death of a secondary character (past, discussed).
✨ Mini review ✨
💙 Single Dad
💙 Kindergarten Teacher
💙 Insta-lust
💙 Found Family
I didn't know what to expect from this story going in but somehow it was even better than I anticipated. While this book has its sweet moments, it also deals with some heavier topics and you can deeply feel the struggle that the characters go through.
Because of his past, Rafe sees himself as undeserving of love and thinks he will destroy anyone he gets close to. Given everything he's been through it takes time for him to see that he deserves to be happy, yet he's still a loving, compassionate person and an amazing father from the very start.
Nolan is such a sweet man and I wanted nothing more than for him to get his happy ending. Both the MCs, along with Rafe's daughter Hailey, were such fantastic characters and all fitted so well together. This was such a wonderful story and will definitely be added to my reread stack!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): brief mention of self-harm/overdose not by the main characters (occurs off-page). There’s also mention in this book of a time where one character was trying to please others and not live his truth.
CW (from me): death of a secondary character (past, discussed).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2025
Totally Schooled by Nicole Dykes is one of the best romance reads I've devoured this year! Clocking in at 4 chili peppers on the spice scale, the novel masterfully balances heat with a plot that's rich in heart. I fell head over heels for Rathe and Nolan as they navigated the ups and downs of their unexpected romance, told through engaging dual perspectives that really deepened their character arcs. The inclusion of the child adds a heartwarming layer to the story, making their journey even more endearing—even if I did wish for a touch more drama at times. Overall, this book was packaged perfectly, and who wouldn't want to fall in love with their child's hot teacher? A must-read for anyone craving a blend of sizzling romance and genuine emotion!
November 1, 2021
totally schooled is a book i flew through with ease and had me smiling goofily down at my phone screen. nolan and rafe are such a cute and hot couple that had me in my feels, and with hailey thrown into the mix, it's impossible not to fall in love with this book.
i loved seeing the quick progression of nolan and rafe's relationship, the several steps backward and forward, and the overall development in both them as individuals and them as a couple.
this was such a great book and only solidified my opinion on nicole being one my favourite authors. i plan to read more of her works in the future, without a doubt, and i can't wait for more of her brilliant writing.
i most definitely recommend this book to any looking for a sweet, soft, minimal drama mm romance with single dad trope and a hint of forbidden romance.
i loved seeing the quick progression of nolan and rafe's relationship, the several steps backward and forward, and the overall development in both them as individuals and them as a couple.
this was such a great book and only solidified my opinion on nicole being one my favourite authors. i plan to read more of her works in the future, without a doubt, and i can't wait for more of her brilliant writing.
i most definitely recommend this book to any looking for a sweet, soft, minimal drama mm romance with single dad trope and a hint of forbidden romance.
November 17, 2021
Ya’ll, this book came out two days ago and I’ve had it read for over a week yet here I am, just now reviewing. Why am I so extra?!
I loved this story for a few reasons, but the main reason is the character development as it pertains to them as a couple. The author did a great job of growing both Rafe and Nolan thru the different levels of their journey. She could have easily written this as an insta-romance because sparks flew from the moment these two met, but she made a choice to develop them in a friendship before they stopped denying their chemistry and that made this story more fulfilling. It made more relatable and realistic. I love that she made the choice to not allow their past circumstances to dictate how they treated this building relationship. I loved all the scenes with Hailey; she stole the show for me on more than one occasion.
I felt happy when I read this story. It’s entertaining, full of emotion and heat and just felt good all around. I haven’t read a whole bunch of books by this author, but thus far, she is #winning with me!
I loved this story for a few reasons, but the main reason is the character development as it pertains to them as a couple. The author did a great job of growing both Rafe and Nolan thru the different levels of their journey. She could have easily written this as an insta-romance because sparks flew from the moment these two met, but she made a choice to develop them in a friendship before they stopped denying their chemistry and that made this story more fulfilling. It made more relatable and realistic. I love that she made the choice to not allow their past circumstances to dictate how they treated this building relationship. I loved all the scenes with Hailey; she stole the show for me on more than one occasion.
I felt happy when I read this story. It’s entertaining, full of emotion and heat and just felt good all around. I haven’t read a whole bunch of books by this author, but thus far, she is #winning with me!
November 15, 2021
Did I devour this book in one sitting, yes, I did. This is Nicole’s second MM romance and had all the heart flipping tender moments and a whole lot of MM spice that I love!
Rafe has had a hard time over the past few years and has just moved to town for a job. He’s not alone though, he’s a single dad with a sweet six-year-old daughter, Hailey. This is the first time he hasn’t had a family to help him with childcare and he’s a little anxious about it. That is until he meets Hailey’s new teacher, Nolan, who offers to help him if need be. He brushes that aside, but one night he gets offered to work a late shift that he can’t turn down and turns to Nolan for help.
From here we get the slow seduce of them wanting each other but not wanting to act on it since Nolan is Hailey’s teacher. However, chemistry can’t be ignored and they both give in to their feelings. Soon they can’t stop what they are doing and their life’s start to cross, meeting each other’s family and not knowing what’s going on between them when it was supposed to be casual.
Nolan is the most selfless man and I loved him. The way he wanted to help Rafe melted my heart and let’s not talk about how good he was with Hailey, their relationship was so special.
This was such an easy flowing read, frustrating parts waiting for Rafe to realise what he has but his journey to his sexuality wasn’t as easy for him, but that only added to the angst, which in turn had me devouring this book to see how their HEA would work. This was a heartwarming romance full of all the heart fuzzy feelings.
I love the way Nicole tells her stories and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
ARC received for an honest opinion
____________________
Overall Ratings;
POV - First, duel
Hero (R) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hero (N) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Rafe has had a hard time over the past few years and has just moved to town for a job. He’s not alone though, he’s a single dad with a sweet six-year-old daughter, Hailey. This is the first time he hasn’t had a family to help him with childcare and he’s a little anxious about it. That is until he meets Hailey’s new teacher, Nolan, who offers to help him if need be. He brushes that aside, but one night he gets offered to work a late shift that he can’t turn down and turns to Nolan for help.
From here we get the slow seduce of them wanting each other but not wanting to act on it since Nolan is Hailey’s teacher. However, chemistry can’t be ignored and they both give in to their feelings. Soon they can’t stop what they are doing and their life’s start to cross, meeting each other’s family and not knowing what’s going on between them when it was supposed to be casual.
Nolan is the most selfless man and I loved him. The way he wanted to help Rafe melted my heart and let’s not talk about how good he was with Hailey, their relationship was so special.
This was such an easy flowing read, frustrating parts waiting for Rafe to realise what he has but his journey to his sexuality wasn’t as easy for him, but that only added to the angst, which in turn had me devouring this book to see how their HEA would work. This was a heartwarming romance full of all the heart fuzzy feelings.
I love the way Nicole tells her stories and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
ARC received for an honest opinion
____________________
Overall Ratings;
POV - First, duel
Hero (R) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hero (N) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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November 10, 2021
Nicole Dykes has done it again! Absolutely loved this book. Her second MM romance. I fell in love with both Nolan & Rafe instantly. I really felt like I was a fly on the wall in their home. The passion between them was insane hot and off the charts. I so want more of them! Please? Amazing read. I highly reccomend this book to anyone who is a fan of MM & instalust/love. You won't regret it! And I can't wait for Gavin's book.
August 12, 2022
Single dads hit different🖤 5/5⭐️ 3/5🔥🌶
November 15, 2021
Totally Schooled had me totally hooked!
From the start I loved these characters. They had a sweet instalove meet cute that became a friendship everyone needs. Of course when sparks fly that friendship became something more no matter how hard they fought it. Even with their trust issues I loved how open both Nolan and Rafe were about who they are. Also can we say how amazing Rafe's daughter is?! Loved each moment with her!
This author knows how to bring out all the feels and is forever making us fall for each character she brings to life on the pages of her books. Great read!
From the start I loved these characters. They had a sweet instalove meet cute that became a friendship everyone needs. Of course when sparks fly that friendship became something more no matter how hard they fought it. Even with their trust issues I loved how open both Nolan and Rafe were about who they are. Also can we say how amazing Rafe's daughter is?! Loved each moment with her!
This author knows how to bring out all the feels and is forever making us fall for each character she brings to life on the pages of her books. Great read!
December 2, 2024
This was such an easy read for me, look up TW’s if you need to. Honestly it was just a sweet cutie easy read that I enjoyed, plus it’s a single parent and that’s one of my favourite tropes!
July 7, 2024
Totally Schooled - MM - Nicole Dykes
OMG, my heart was breaking for MC Rafe 24, when he divulged how and why he was a single parent, with a 5 year old daughter Hailey, and struggling to make ends meet. His parents have disowned him. The only relative who cares about him is his Aunt Jo who took him in when he left his hometown and family behind. She helps him out whenever she can with his daughter who she adores.
He doesn’t do relationships, but has had hookups when he feels the need and is too lonely.
Nolan is 29, and a Kindergarten Teacher, he is out to his friends and family, but hasn’t told his work colleagues, not because he wants to hide, but, do they need to know? He has a fantastic family and circle of friends. He’s stopped hooking up and using dating apps after being bruised emotionally by boyfriends who stole from him to feed their drug habit. Now he wants a forever relationship with someone who loves him for himself.
First day back after Summer break, all new children starting, fussing parents to calm down when leaving their child for the first time. Then this guy walks in with a little girl and Nolan’s eyes pop, his heart rate accelerates.
Rafe is confused when he approaches the Kindergarten Teacher, he thought teacher was going to be female. Hoping really for a female influencer in his daughter’s life. Then he sees a gorgeous, dark haired, bearded man meeting and greeting parents he’s stuck for words.
Nolan approaches with Hailey’s file and Rafe gets up tight wary about some of the questions he asks. However, Nolan, being the sensitive man he is manages to sooth and calm Rafe, knowing what parents feel when they drop off their child in a new environment with strangers. The lively little blond girl grabs his attention with her friendly, bright manner as she settles into her new surroundings.
Rafe works in construction and at night sometimes in a bar at Glitter, a Gay club, hoping to earn enough to provide for their needs. He collects his daughter from school each day as she waits with her teacher. It’s not long before Nolan and Rafe become friendly.
When Rafe gets a call to extra work shift he panics, he has no one to ask for help. With Christmas fast approaching he needs all the extra money he he can earn and in a desperate move, he calls out to Nolan for help.
Nolan is a dream of a guy, always helping out those in need, especially if they are struggling, hurt, or just in need of a friend, he always offers a helping hand. So for whatever reason he offers to help Rafe by sitting with Hailey for a few hours.
So began a friendship between two lovely men, both in need of love, care and attention. Problem is one wants forever and the other just wants friendship with benefits.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
It was so easy to ‘connect’ with these two MC, especially Nolan.
Yes, Rafe has a huge trunkful of baggage that he feels the need to carry on his back forever. He really started to annoy me the way he reacted to Nolan’s disclosure!!!! What? And then a while later, a little too soon after his outburst, in my opinion, he behaved so different.
Still, I liked this book from Nicole Dykes it was well written with good character development. There are some side characters that I’d like to see have their own story.
Gavin has been Nolan’s best friend since Grade School, now he is still around. He was taken in by Nolan’s family when he was kicked out at 16 by his cruel, hateful parents. Now, Gavin, out and proud, flits around from one hook up to another, never forming a relationship. I feel something was just about to change for him at the Christmas Party. I’ll watch out for that and hope Nicole Dykes lets us have an update.
OMG, my heart was breaking for MC Rafe 24, when he divulged how and why he was a single parent, with a 5 year old daughter Hailey, and struggling to make ends meet. His parents have disowned him. The only relative who cares about him is his Aunt Jo who took him in when he left his hometown and family behind. She helps him out whenever she can with his daughter who she adores.
He doesn’t do relationships, but has had hookups when he feels the need and is too lonely.
Nolan is 29, and a Kindergarten Teacher, he is out to his friends and family, but hasn’t told his work colleagues, not because he wants to hide, but, do they need to know? He has a fantastic family and circle of friends. He’s stopped hooking up and using dating apps after being bruised emotionally by boyfriends who stole from him to feed their drug habit. Now he wants a forever relationship with someone who loves him for himself.
First day back after Summer break, all new children starting, fussing parents to calm down when leaving their child for the first time. Then this guy walks in with a little girl and Nolan’s eyes pop, his heart rate accelerates.
Rafe is confused when he approaches the Kindergarten Teacher, he thought teacher was going to be female. Hoping really for a female influencer in his daughter’s life. Then he sees a gorgeous, dark haired, bearded man meeting and greeting parents he’s stuck for words.
Nolan approaches with Hailey’s file and Rafe gets up tight wary about some of the questions he asks. However, Nolan, being the sensitive man he is manages to sooth and calm Rafe, knowing what parents feel when they drop off their child in a new environment with strangers. The lively little blond girl grabs his attention with her friendly, bright manner as she settles into her new surroundings.
Rafe works in construction and at night sometimes in a bar at Glitter, a Gay club, hoping to earn enough to provide for their needs. He collects his daughter from school each day as she waits with her teacher. It’s not long before Nolan and Rafe become friendly.
When Rafe gets a call to extra work shift he panics, he has no one to ask for help. With Christmas fast approaching he needs all the extra money he he can earn and in a desperate move, he calls out to Nolan for help.
Nolan is a dream of a guy, always helping out those in need, especially if they are struggling, hurt, or just in need of a friend, he always offers a helping hand. So for whatever reason he offers to help Rafe by sitting with Hailey for a few hours.
So began a friendship between two lovely men, both in need of love, care and attention. Problem is one wants forever and the other just wants friendship with benefits.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
It was so easy to ‘connect’ with these two MC, especially Nolan.
Yes, Rafe has a huge trunkful of baggage that he feels the need to carry on his back forever. He really started to annoy me the way he reacted to Nolan’s disclosure!!!! What? And then a while later, a little too soon after his outburst, in my opinion, he behaved so different.
Still, I liked this book from Nicole Dykes it was well written with good character development. There are some side characters that I’d like to see have their own story.
Gavin has been Nolan’s best friend since Grade School, now he is still around. He was taken in by Nolan’s family when he was kicked out at 16 by his cruel, hateful parents. Now, Gavin, out and proud, flits around from one hook up to another, never forming a relationship. I feel something was just about to change for him at the Christmas Party. I’ll watch out for that and hope Nicole Dykes lets us have an update.
January 10, 2022
***Spoilers splash here and there***
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
Now that’s what I wanted to know. I’m glad I did read half of the authors note at the end. Because I REALLY wanted to know if Gavin was going to get a book. I was like I hope he gets a book. Was planing to add that exact mentioned in this review. Even though I still did, because I’m curious if the guy he fall for is the guy he brought to the family gathering.
Also, I wanted to know how old was Rafe. I wanted to know if Nolan was older than him because his age wasn’t mentioned like Nolan age was. I kept thinking that Rafe was a few years younger than Nolan.
I guess I’ll never know. 🤷🏽♀️.. but anyways I felt like Rafe had a hard life growing up. I felt like his best friend Heather even though she died, she should’ve been a better friend to him. And actually understand where Rafe was coming from. But I think she was to blinded by her love for him and what her parents and his parents thought of them both. Wanted to please them the only way how.
I was glad that Rafe had his Aunt Jo because if it wasn’t for him it’s no telling how he would’ve turn out. Especially with this daughter and having to take care of her. Plus In the end Hailey ended up still having grandparents because Rafe met Nolan and Nolan parents took both Rafe and his daughter in. She got to call them her grandparents. Which was a good thing for them both. That’s what love truly is..
Nolan family show that to Rafe, especially with how his family treated him. I was glad when Rafe finally gave Nolan a chance to actually date him. I knew that it will only take for Nolan to talk to someone else for Rafe to get the stick out of his a$$ and get his sh^+ together. And admit his feelings for Nolan I was glad for that in the end. Because Everything work out for them.
Plus they ended up adopting Jacob, I was glad for that too. Because I did wonder would they end up adopting Jacob or not. And in the end they did. And also ended up marrying one another which was good for them both. Because they love and care for each other a lot and they both got their happy ending!
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
Now that’s what I wanted to know. I’m glad I did read half of the authors note at the end. Because I REALLY wanted to know if Gavin was going to get a book. I was like I hope he gets a book. Was planing to add that exact mentioned in this review. Even though I still did, because I’m curious if the guy he fall for is the guy he brought to the family gathering.
Also, I wanted to know how old was Rafe. I wanted to know if Nolan was older than him because his age wasn’t mentioned like Nolan age was. I kept thinking that Rafe was a few years younger than Nolan.
I guess I’ll never know. 🤷🏽♀️.. but anyways I felt like Rafe had a hard life growing up. I felt like his best friend Heather even though she died, she should’ve been a better friend to him. And actually understand where Rafe was coming from. But I think she was to blinded by her love for him and what her parents and his parents thought of them both. Wanted to please them the only way how.
I was glad that Rafe had his Aunt Jo because if it wasn’t for him it’s no telling how he would’ve turn out. Especially with this daughter and having to take care of her. Plus In the end Hailey ended up still having grandparents because Rafe met Nolan and Nolan parents took both Rafe and his daughter in. She got to call them her grandparents. Which was a good thing for them both. That’s what love truly is..
Nolan family show that to Rafe, especially with how his family treated him. I was glad when Rafe finally gave Nolan a chance to actually date him. I knew that it will only take for Nolan to talk to someone else for Rafe to get the stick out of his a$$ and get his sh^+ together. And admit his feelings for Nolan I was glad for that in the end. Because Everything work out for them.
Plus they ended up adopting Jacob, I was glad for that too. Because I did wonder would they end up adopting Jacob or not. And in the end they did. And also ended up marrying one another which was good for them both. Because they love and care for each other a lot and they both got their happy ending!
November 12, 2021
3.25 stars
I liked it but wanted to like it more.
I love the whole single dad storyline and Rafe was no exception. He was such a good dad to Hailey, their back story was heartbreaking. He was overly stubborn throughout the book, but that was mainly his fear coming into play. I loved watching them both interacting with Nolans family and Aunt Jo.
I really liked Nolan. I loved the absolute joy he got from teaching. I also liked that he stuck to his guns. when he finally put himself out there and it didn't go his way he was prepared to work towards his goals and date other people.
Told from alternating POV's was good as it allowed us to see what each one was thinking, but at the same time I found both guys voices very similar and even though it told you whose POV it was at the start of the chapter, I found myself loosing track of who was narrating at the time.
*** ARC Provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
I liked it but wanted to like it more.
I love the whole single dad storyline and Rafe was no exception. He was such a good dad to Hailey, their back story was heartbreaking. He was overly stubborn throughout the book, but that was mainly his fear coming into play. I loved watching them both interacting with Nolans family and Aunt Jo.
I really liked Nolan. I loved the absolute joy he got from teaching. I also liked that he stuck to his guns. when he finally put himself out there and it didn't go his way he was prepared to work towards his goals and date other people.
Told from alternating POV's was good as it allowed us to see what each one was thinking, but at the same time I found both guys voices very similar and even though it told you whose POV it was at the start of the chapter, I found myself loosing track of who was narrating at the time.
*** ARC Provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
May 8, 2022
DNF @ 29%.
So many red flags. At first I thought I'd just subtract a star from whatever rating I would end up giving because of Rafe pushing and pushing and pushing Nolan despite Nolan telling him time and time again that he did not want to have sex with him. But Rafe just WOULD. NOT. LET. UP. And then this line was the final straw for me:
"I hear the uncertainty in his voice, but I'm certain enough for us both."
Rafe KNOWS that Nolan doesn't want to sleep with him - in fact, Nolan explicitly tells him no on multiple occasions, but Rafe still pursues him, still touches and kisses him, still pushes for more. That is sexual harrassment, and should not ever be romanticized or glossed over. I usually don't rate the books that I dnf but this is really problematic and frankly, I am shocked that only one other review comments on this issue.
So many red flags. At first I thought I'd just subtract a star from whatever rating I would end up giving because of Rafe pushing and pushing and pushing Nolan despite Nolan telling him time and time again that he did not want to have sex with him. But Rafe just WOULD. NOT. LET. UP. And then this line was the final straw for me:
"I hear the uncertainty in his voice, but I'm certain enough for us both."
Rafe KNOWS that Nolan doesn't want to sleep with him - in fact, Nolan explicitly tells him no on multiple occasions, but Rafe still pursues him, still touches and kisses him, still pushes for more. That is sexual harrassment, and should not ever be romanticized or glossed over. I usually don't rate the books that I dnf but this is really problematic and frankly, I am shocked that only one other review comments on this issue.
August 20, 2022
3.5/4 stars
A sweet, sexy, single-dad, friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance. Nolan is Rafe's daughter's kindergarten teacher but they fall into an unlikely friends and lovers situation. But Rafe has pain and guilt from his past that makes him not think he will ever be worthy of a real relationship, and he is determined to keep focus on doing right by his daughter. But Nolan is over hookups and wants it all. Eventually, they will have to figure it out and break their cycle before someone gets hurt.
Nolan and Rafe are both likable. Rafe is overwhelmed and a bit oblivious as to what is going on. Nolan cares so much that he is willing to sacrifice at least temporarily. Little Hailey is a delight and I loved how she wraps everyone around her finger. This is a heartwarming story of found family, acceptance, healing, forgiveness, and hope.
A sweet, sexy, single-dad, friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance. Nolan is Rafe's daughter's kindergarten teacher but they fall into an unlikely friends and lovers situation. But Rafe has pain and guilt from his past that makes him not think he will ever be worthy of a real relationship, and he is determined to keep focus on doing right by his daughter. But Nolan is over hookups and wants it all. Eventually, they will have to figure it out and break their cycle before someone gets hurt.
Nolan and Rafe are both likable. Rafe is overwhelmed and a bit oblivious as to what is going on. Nolan cares so much that he is willing to sacrifice at least temporarily. Little Hailey is a delight and I loved how she wraps everyone around her finger. This is a heartwarming story of found family, acceptance, healing, forgiveness, and hope.
November 8, 2021
This is my 2nd M/M book by Nicole Dykes after Immoral and I am now a 1 click reader to anything she writes! Totally Schooled was so great and I loved how broken (but not really broken) Rafe was, he just needed good people around him and his daughter Hailey was adorable and what a great wingman. Nolan was a sweetheart almost too great to be real and his parents were wonderful secondary characters. The route these two found to love was real and believable and the heat level was so amazing. Definitely a wonderful read.
November 15, 2021
This was such a cute read!! One of my first MM reads and I really enjoyed Nolan and Rafe's story! This one is a teacher parent romance so it had a bit of forbidden element but these two had chemistry from the get go. And I just loved Hailey, Rafe's daughter! She was so cute and I loved her interactions with Nolan! This one had just a small dose of angst but overall it was a heartwarming romance of these two kind souls.
November 17, 2021
3,5 stars for this sweet Friends to lovers Story .... although, the friends part came with the lovers part, I really liked how the relationship developed.
Nolan was a great guy and I think he really did well in his support of Rafe.
Rafe was obviously a bit damaged thanks to his past but a great father.
I understood the conflict although Rafe was a bit too oblivious to their real relationship status.
All in all it was a very sweet story, fitting for wintertime
Nolan was a great guy and I think he really did well in his support of Rafe.
Rafe was obviously a bit damaged thanks to his past but a great father.
I understood the conflict although Rafe was a bit too oblivious to their real relationship status.
All in all it was a very sweet story, fitting for wintertime
November 17, 2021
I loved the characters in Totally Schooled from the first chapter... first Rafe and Hailey and then Nolan quickly wormed their way into my heart and stayed there!
Read my full review:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
Read my full review:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
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