Singled Out

Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake #1

by Amy Knupp

Sometimes love singles you out when you least expect it—or want it

Harper

Commitment was never my thing. But I've been directionless for far too long. It's time to take on some responsibilities and get my life together. Bidding on my best friend's brother at a bachelor auction didn't help me with that. Neither did having a hot, secret fling with him. Too bad that didn't stop me. Because now I'm in way over my head. And I'm afraid I might not be ready for the biggest commitment of all. Love

Max

I've got more commitments than I can handle. I became a single dad overnight. Between that and my coaching job, I don't have time for romance. Especially not with her. Harper's not only my little sister's friend, she's also my boss's daughter. There are a million reasons why we shouldn't be together. And I can't seem to remember any of them when she's in my arms

Singled Out , book 1 in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series, is an emotional, sexy, opposites attract, small town contemporary romance. Download today and get ready to fall for Harper, Max, and Dragonfly Lake.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Audiobook, Small Town Romance, Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance, Sports

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2024

About the author

Amy Knupp is a USA Today Best-Selling author of contemporary romance and a freelance copy editor. She loves words and grammar and meaty, engrossing stories with complex characters.

Amy lives in Wisconsin with her husband, and has two sons, four cats, and a box turtle. She graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in French and journalism. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, breaking up cat fights, watching college hoops, and annoying her family by correcting their grammar.

Reviews

[Tea&Biscuits · Rating 4 out of 5]

Singled Out is the first book in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series by Amy Knupp. I’m not usually a fan of the single-parent trope, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Harper and Max meet at an auction for charity. Harper bids on Max and wins. The best part for me is that it wasn’t an insta-love connection. In fact, Harper is anti-commitment, and Max is focused on raising his son. Well-written with great character development. There is just the right amount of spice and angst to keep you addicted.

The audiobook is narrated in dual by Erin Mallon and Sebastian York. Both Erin and Sebastian are great at male and female voices, which really makes this dual performance a plus. The sweet little toddler voice was so well done too. I was pulled in from the start, and I can’t fault either of their performances.

Book: 4.25/5
Spice: 2.5/5
Narration: 5/5

I’d like to thank Home Cooked Books for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

[Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Amy Knupp book and won’t be my last! Harper and Max were great characters who definitely were meant to be together.

💙Single dad
💙Small town romance
💙Age gap
💙Boss’s daughter
💙Bachelor auction

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔

Harper and Max couldn’t be more similar in their beliefs on relationships - they both want to stay as far away from them as possible. So when they find the pull of their attraction growing stronger and stronger, they decide to give in and get all the benefits from their friendship.

But at some point along the way, their situationship turned more. But do both parties feel the same way?

I loved Max and his relationship with his son. That whole situation was so loving to see. The care that he places with Daniel was so, so special.

Harper was such a relatable character. She doesn’t know what she wants from her life, but really, do most of us?! I loved how much I felt for her throughout the book.

Sebastian York and Erin Mallon did a fantastic job with the narration!

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧📖AUDIOBOOK & EBOOK Review📖🎧

Confession ⇒ At the beginning of May, I started listening to this ALC provided by Home Cooked Books and I made it to about Chapter 4 and was very hmmmmmm about what was happening so I did a little digging and ... My trusty Everand subscription to the rescue! lol



LISTEN, if you love audiobooks, you should be subscribing to Everand asap! Ever since they split from Scribd, they have up'd their game tenfold! I have been able to listen to a lot of audiobooks for basically pennies on the dollar. Do with that information what you will!

I also read an ARC provided by The Author Agency while I was listening but we're not discussing my extra tendencies at this time. LOL

Anywho, all of this is really to let you know that you probably, maybe, should at least read the last book in the Henry series (of course I listened to all 4 SMH) before you dive in or you might just be hmmmmmmm like I was.

I honestly could not tell you which is best, reading or listening to this story, but I can tell you that there is no doubt in my mind that you will love your experience either way you go!

Everything about this story fit together perfectly and just made me happy. Harper and Max are very different and where you would normally see a storyline that makes their differences part of a conflict, that wasn’t the case, and I was here for it! Honestly, adults adulting properly in romance fiction has to be the swooniest thing ever! Their age difference was not overly dramatized. The different stages of life that both were in was not overly dramatized. Nothing was really overly dramatized and I could almost weep over it all!

I feel the heart & hope this story was surrounded by even now as I put together my notes for a review and I am smiling ear to ear over some of the different circumstances! Listening to this story and reading along for highlight purposes was an incredible experience for me. Not only was the writing well executed, but the narration brought joy to my ears for not long enough! Sebastian York & Erin Mallon have both been on my top narrators list for many years and they did an outstanding job!

[❤️ Mandi Listens & Reads ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨🎧ALC Audiobook book Review🎧✨

Title: Singled Out
Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake
By: Amy Knupp
Narrated by: Sebastian York and Erin Mallon

Dual narration
Small-town
Single dad
Retired NFL
Grief/loss (off page)
Steamy
Best friends brother

Overall story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Audiobook performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤

📚Story review📚
Blurb: Harper is dared at a fundraising auction to bid on her best friend’s brother. She agrees and plans to take him with her to an event in honor of a late friend. Max is not looking for a commitment and isn’t even sure why he agreed, but upholds his obligation to find a babysitter for the little guy that is his whole world, and take Harper out for an evening.

Review:
A whole series about single dads!? Uh, yes please! This was a fun quick listen. I loved Max’s character. Retired NFL player with a guarded heart, afraid of commitment, and the most devoted dad on the planet. Harper is very much this is what you get and I enjoyed seeing her grow and find her way. Overall I really enjoyed Harper and Max’s story and can’t wait to hear more of the dragonfly lake single dads!

🎧❤️ Audiobook review ❤️🎧
It’s been awhile since I’ve had a book narrated by a Sebastian York and it was great having him back in my ears! He and Erin are such great storytellers and I thought they embodied the characters and elevated the story! Such an enjoyable listen!

Thank you to author Amy Knupp and Home Cooked Books promos for the listen. It was truly my pleasure!

**These are my own honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.

[Mellovesaudiobooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC AUDIOBOOK REVIEW

I really enjoyed this audiobook, it started out with narrator Sebastian York joking back and forth with his sister and there is just something about Sebastian’s deep almost grumpily voice as Max being sarcastic and silly that sucked me in and I was grinning over the exchange. The entire book was little sarcastic banter here and there and I loved that! Erin Mallon also narrated this in duet, she was a perfect Harper, her voice is sweet and mellow, care free yet when things got serious she was able to portray Harper’s hurt and sadness so well. This was a fun story, I would say short and sweet as the audiobook is about 8 hr and perfectly to the point. It was a great friends w/ benefits to lovers story with a single dad of a sweet little boy, an ex NFL player turned teacher who falls for his little sisters best friend, which also means a nice age gap! If you enjoy any of those tropes you have to listen to this audio!

On audio May 31st

Thank You Home Cooked Books for the opportunity to listen and review.

[Tabitha Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Rating: 4/5⭐️
Spice Level: 2/5🌶️
Audio: 5/5🎧

Singled out is the first book in Amy Knupp’s new Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series. I am so excited for this series as I LOVE a good small town story! This is the first book I’ve read by Amy and it was such a nice, cozy read.

Harper is a free spirit, a budding artist. Max is a former NFL star turned high school math teacher and coach. He also unexpectedly comes into fatherhood. They meet at an auction where Harper bids on Max, winning a date with him. They want to keep things fun with no commitments, but how long can that really last?

Recorded in dual style, Sebastian York and Erin Mallon are fantastic together. They are both incredibly talented and always bring their best performances and it could be seen in this story. Both narrators really embodied these characters and brought this story to life.

Thank you to Amy Knupp and Home Cooked Books for this ALC!

[Readers Together · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book filled me with so much happiness.
It was a fun, easy listen. Light on conflict, and the conflict there was quickly got resolved. And sometimes, that is just what you need. Add in brilliant narration from Erin Mallon and Sebastian York and it is easy to recommend to others.

Harper is a free spirit. She goes where she wants when she wants. There is nothing really tying her down. She is just dealing with the loss of a friend when she attends a school faculty auction. Her best friend, Dakota, is with her and urges her to bid on her brother, Max. Harper is one of those characters that you can’t help but love. Everything about her is just friendly and sweet. I adored how Dakota was throughout this story. She was all-in and just wanted them to be happy. And it is such a refreshing take on the trope.

Max leans more to the grumpy side of things. He’s a former NFL star turned high school football coach and math teacher. He is on the auction block and dreading every second. He’d rather be home. He has taken guardianship of a little person, and it is his life’s mission to make sure that child is cared for. He has family support but hates relying on anyone, as he sees it as his purpose now. Watching him grow and change and understand that it takes a village thanks to his relationship with Harper was just wonderful.

I loved these two together. The tension and chemistry were delicious. The way they fought their attraction until they couldn’t. They put up a good fight, even when each knew they felt more. They were each other’s perfect match. And the end. Gah. Too perfect.

Erin Mallon was wonderful as Harper. She really encompassed her free spirit and also the vulnerability of losing someone and the impact that can have.
Sebastian York was a great choice for single dad, Max. The sweetest of the moments with the baby were just swoon-worthy.
Erin and Sebastian pair up really well together, and it was just a joy to listen to. Like a visit from old friends.
Production was great.

This is the start of a new series, a single dad’s club. What is not to love about that? I know I am here for it. The hints for the next book had me itching to get my hands on it.

[kreadsoften · Rating 4 out of 5]

Singled Out is the first book in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lane series, but it can be read as a standalone.

I love the single dad trope, and it looks like this will be a series of single dad romances!

Anyway, Harper ended up getting to know Max because she bid on him at an auction. And…well, neither of them was looking for a relationship.

Max was such a great dad! He truly paid attention to his son and always put him first. Harper was so carefree and fun, and she really just made the best out of any situation.

These two had such great chemistry, and they found healing with each other.

Audio:
Narrators: Erin Mallon and Sebastian York
Style: Dual

Erin and Sebastian can do no wrong. They always do an amazing job, and this was no exception. Also, Erin is truly amazing when it comes to doing “male” and “child” voices.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review Singled Out (Single Dads of DragonFly Lake #1) by Amy Knupp
 
Audio review:
 
From the first chapter to the last I was fully invested in single dad Max and free spirit Harper. Narrated by Sebastian York and Erin Mallon they did a wonderful job in bringing the characters and story to life.
 
This book ticked all the boxes for me and I found the characters easy to relate too. If you want a book with all the feels, then this is for you. I found myself smiling throughout and saying to myself, just one more chapter.
 
The narrators voices suited the characters and were easy to listen too. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
 
 
 

[Brittany ⭑ Book lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️

This was a sweet story about Harper and Max. After Harper bid on (and won) Max in a bachelor auction they started a secret fling. Max was a single dad who only wanted what was best for his son and he believed that was being single forever. Harper was allergic to commitment - after a few weeks together, they both found their agreement was more than they bargained for.

I enjoyed how this wasn’t an insta-love story (yes, insta-lust), both characters were firmly in the “no-strings” zone at first. They both had their own personal reasons that made them feel like a relationship wasn’t in their best interests (but their beliefs were relatable). I enjoyed the build up to their relationship and the way they supported each other during their friendship. They had great chemistry and spice. I loved the bonus epilogue and their story! Happy reading!

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

A wonderful start to a new series in Dragonfly Lake!

This is written in a duel POV format. That is a favorite of mine. Seeing both of the main protagonists' thoughts before, during and after a scene, really help me to connect to the characters so much better. I can enjoy the story more. I used to read the back of books to see why the male character would do and say things that had occurred to better understand the story.

If you love a single dad story along with the BFF of his sister romance, well you got it here. Max becomes a dad when his best friend and his wife die in an accident. Having this precious boy thrust into his life, Max wants to protect him in every way. He can't get involved with any one.

Harper is a free spirit. She hates commitment. She bids on her BF's brother at the sister's request. Harper needs a date to attend a banquet honoring another friend. Harper and Max click right away!

Can a commitment phobic woman and a hard working dad, make things work? Well you will have to read for yourself.

This is a sexy book but not a lot of sexy time like some authors tend to do for the word count. Nope there is a heartfelt story here.

[Floor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick and easy read. Very average though but that’s fine

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded down

The ending really let this book down.

Turning his apology/declaration of love into a massive public spectacle? Proposing after 4 weeks of dating? Spending most of the epilogue setting up the next couple? No thanks.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️ Thank you Amy Knupp and The Author Agency for this eARC of Singled Out

This book pulled at every heartstring.

Harper is a free spirit. Artistic. Directionless. That is until she bids on her friend’s brother at a charity auction as a dare. That one dare led her to the biggest commitment of her life.

Max is an ex-NFL star who came into fatherhood unexpectedly. He spends all his free time ensuring that his son has everything he can ever need. He is the ultimate involved Dad & his love for his boy was my favorite part of this story.

Max and Harper bonded over grief. They were there for one another to listen and advise when asked. Their chemistry was undeniable and it ultimately led them to a secret fling. Their relationship wasn’t without struggle, but Harper and Max finally realizing their love for one another was perfect. They complemented each other beautifully.

I adored this book so much and encourage anyone who loves a smoking HOT single dad and a small town romance story to read it ASAP!

Why you will love this book:
🔥single dad
🔥age gap
🔥forbidden love
🔥bachelor auction
🔥boss’s daughter
🔥opposites attract
🔥secret fling
🔥small town
🔥steamy contemporary

[Nicole R · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ rounded up. Started out strong then took a nosedive. MMC became insufferable with wanting to keep their relationship secret.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really cute story! A great start to a new series! I listened to an advanced copy and it's fantastic! Performed in dual narration by Sebastian York and Erin Mallon. They were great as Max and Harper. As always these two were outstanding! I loved their performances.

Harper attends a fundraiser event and in attendance is Max. He's her best friend's brother and works with Harper's dad. Max is participating in the bachelor auction and Harper ends up winning Max in the auction. She needs an escort for a work event so Max is willing to accompany her. What starts out as a casual outing starts to become more. Max doesn't want a serious relationship right now so they agree to be friends with benefits.

This was my first book by this author. Loved her writing style. Her characters were wonderful and I loved the camaraderie of everyone. I felt the chemistry between Max and Harper. Despite their age gap, Harper was very mature for her age. I enjoyed seeing the progression of their relationship. It was very natural. I loved seeing Max's relationship with his son. If you love small town romance, single dad trope and age gap. Check this one out!

Release date: May 31, 2024

Thank you to @homecookedbookspromos for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Dino Queen · Rating 5 out of 5]

please note that the trigger warnings and topes/themes may contain spoilers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
POV: dual 1st person POV with dual audio performers
spice: several open-door spicy scenes
TWs: mentions of spousal death, mentions of family death, grief, death of a friend
standalone: book 1 in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series
final thoughts: I’m a sucker for a date auction and this book had a fresh take on it. There were many elements of this book that were “typical” romance tropes but with that different take/spin on it and I really enjoyed experiencing it!
🏈 auction, but the FMC was looking for an emotional support person to take to an event
🎨 single dad, but he’s not the father
🏈 best friend’s brother, but she’s all for them being together
🎨 boss’s daughter, but he’s all for them being together

While we don’t get drama from the people in their life who you would expect to cause a fuss (boss/dad and sister/best friend), we get plenty of drama from the typical “this is just a fling”/ ”I’m not ready for love”. And we get a llama on the loose who is in desperate need of some bakery sweets 😂🦙

Harper was a great FMC with problems that made her relatable and likable. I found myself not only rooting for the couple but rooting for the individual characters and their goals as well. The voice actors did a great job of bringing their personalities to life and easily kept me engaged in the story.
I can’t wait to see what Amy Knupp does next and I look forward to meeting the rest of the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake- you won’t want to miss them either!

read this book if you love

😬 angst
🔀 opposites attract
🛏️ just a fling
🔢 age gap (10 years)
😳 forbidden lovers (boss’s daughter)
👩‍👦 single parent
💓 slowburn
🏡 small town
🏈 sports romance (football)
🤫 hidden secrets
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 found family
🧑‍🏫 teacher
🎨 artist
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 great side characters

[Elyvia (eliv_bookstagram) · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐀𝐋𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 - 𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐋𝐄𝐃 𝐎𝐔𝐓
𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚍𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝙳𝚛𝚊𝚐𝚘𝚗𝚏𝚕𝚢 𝙻𝚊𝚔𝚎 #𝟷
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ꜱᴘɪᴄᴇ: 🌶️🌶️

💚𝚂𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚃𝚘𝚠𝚗
💚𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚍
💚𝙱𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍'𝚜 𝙱𝚛𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛
💚𝙱𝚘𝚜𝚜'𝚜 𝙳𝚊𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚎𝚛
💚𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚏𝚒𝚝

❝ ꜱʜᴇ’ꜱ ᴀ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴠᴇʀɪɴɢ ᴄᴏᴍᴍɪᴛᴍᴇɴᴛ-ᴘʜᴏʙᴇ. ʜᴇ’ꜱ ᴀ ꜱɪɴɢʟᴇ ᴅᴀᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏᴍᴍɪᴛᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ ᴛʜᴀɴ ʜᴇ ᴄᴀɴ ʜᴀɴᴅʟᴇ. ᴛʜᴇʏ’ʀᴇ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇᴛᴇ ᴏᴘᴘᴏꜱɪᴛᴇꜱ. ꜱᴏ ᴡʜʏ ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴍɪɴᴅꜱ—ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀɴᴅꜱ—ᴏꜰꜰ ᴇᴀᴄʜ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ? ❝

Small-town single-dad romance is my kryptonite, if I see this trope, almost guaranteed I will pick it up. And this one is even better since Max is not actually Daniel’s dad, he took over as his guardian when his parents, Max’s cousin passed away. It always hits me harder when the parent tries his best despite them not being related by blood. Harper and Max are avoiding relationships like the plagues, both for different reasons. Surprisingly the age gap and the fact that she’s his boss’s daughter are not even the biggest obstacles in their relationship

The denial and commitment phobia part did annoy me just a bit but nothing a sweet grand gesture can’t make it up for me. I’m so excited that this is gonna be a series for single dads romance, we see a few single dads that will get a book and I cannot wait for more!

🎧𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄🎧
Sebastian York and Erin Mallon are a killer combo, they killed it in this audiobook. I’m already a fan of Sebastian, I always enjoy his deep calming voice. Erin is becoming one of my favorites too, I especially like when she did her male voice, really convincing and I do appreciate that. I enjoy this audio immensely and highly recommend getting the audio version.

✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 HOMECOOK BOOKS PROMO 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚌𝚌𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨

[Kristi - ReetzyTheBookNerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amy Knupp once again has a firm grip on my heart. Her small town romances are fantastic! I was so excited to return to Dragonfly Lake.

Singled Out is the first installment of Knupp's new series the "Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake" and it's the story of Harper and Max. Commitment is something that these two have in common but for different reasons. For Harper, commitment has never been her thing, that is until she finds herself bidding on her brother's best friend in a bachelor auction. For Max, he has too many commitments for him to handle; he's a coach and now a single dad. He doesn't have time for romance, but that all seems to change when Harper walks into his life. There are so many reason these two shouldn't be together but they just can't seem to remember those reasons when they're together.

This audiobook is narrated by the amazing duo of Erin Mallon and Sebastian York. These two were the perfect choice to bring these characters to life. They embody every aspect of Max and Harper and breathe new life into this steamy small town romance.

[Rita · Rating 2 out of 5]

The characters started out likeable. Then Max kept things secret when it was unnecessary, and didn’t tell Harper that her dad no longer objected. Then when he wanted to apologize and make up after the big breakup, he opted for a big public declaration! I hated that so much. If any guy ever did a big public gesture, not only would the relationship be over, I’d have to move away because of the embarrassment and humiliation! So cringy. Not a fan of Ian turning out to be a billionaire. Why can’t rich characters just be wealthy? There’s only so many billionaires in the world and none of them are romantic heroes. The only ethical billionaire is a previous one who has given away most of it. Yuck! So basically it started out promising and then completely soured me on it by the end.

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harper Ellison bids on Max Dawson a former NFL player at a bachelor charity auction in his hometown of Dragonfly Lake, Tennessee. They saw him as the smart, athletic, good-looking guy who could handle anything. The guy who’d suffered a devastating setback and come out unscathed. Sometimes that sack was literal and sometimes figurative. The guy who had it all. He’d experienced both. He did, but his son had not. In fact, in one night he lost both his parents and now Max is raising his cousin’s beautiful baby boy. He’d been roped into this.

He needed to get his mental sh-t together, paste on his public-Max smile, and get this night over with. In the past, he would’ve embraced an event like this bachelor auction wholeheartedly. Now, things are totally different. These days it was harder to hide private Max, with all his fears, doubts, and anxiety. And now he was minutes away from having to walk up on a stage, stand under a spotlight, and wait for someone to bid on a date with him. Now she and her best friend Harper are there to bid on a bachelor. Harper and his sister are artists and Harper is there on a mission to fulfill her best friend's final request of which she had a few.

However, she figured she could kill two birds with one bid. You see her dear friend, Naomi Finley, passed away, and she was a beautiful soul who gave back so much to her community in the way of art. She not only sold her art to donate to charity, but she also gave art lessons and had children’s classes from schools come through to experience art. But she had one last favor for Harper before she passed. “Art for everyone,” was Naomi’s motto. She’d been an untiring advocate particularly in funding art programs in schools throughout the state of Tennessee.

Naomi had left her in charge of appropriating what she called her petty cash fund, money she’d set aside expressly to donate to her causes. She knew she wouldn’t care if she used it for the silent auction or to bid on a bachelor or just made a lump donation. Naomi only insisted it went to the cause tonight. Harper had just over five K to donate. Dakota leaned over, so she was right next to her ear. “I think you should bid on Max.” In shock. “Your brother?” Harper asked in surprise. “I dare you.” Her brows went up as she considered the idea. Max Dawson was…well, good-looking, loved by everyone, and about ten years older than her.

“He works for my dad,” Harper pointed out. “Yeah, so?” “He’d be good arm candy for the gala.” You see her dad was the principal of the school where Max taught and coached. He was a stickler for rules and regulations. Even Harper never felt like she measured up to all the members in her family who were all professionals in their own right. Where she was more artistic school was not for her unless it pertained to creativity. “Why do you want me to bid on your brother though?” I asked, suspicious. “Someone’s going to win him. Might as well be you,” she said flippantly.

“I’m worried about him. He doesn’t have fun anymore. Doesn’t go out. Hasn’t dated since he took Danny in. I know becoming a single dad is a huge thing, but he’s not himself.” “Well, yes. I’d like to think so. How much of a good time do you want him to have?” “As much of a good time as you want,” she said, “but if it’s too good, I don’t want to hear about it.” “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.” Mayor Constantine’s voice boomed through the speakers. “Welcome to the pinnacle of tonight’s event—the bachelor auction.” This town hasn’t had a proper art department at the high school level since ...”

Mayor Constantine introduced Max, the younger of the two Dawson brothers and, in her opinion, the better looking. He somehow oozed confidence and charm without crossing into egotistical. Her eyes were locked on him. Bidding started at fifty for everyone but Max the mayor started him at three hundred. In thirty seconds it jumped to a grand, yet she still hadn’t jumped in. Three women were raising the bid by fifty dollars in each bid. She could feel Dakota’s eyes on her. One woman dropped out at fifteen hundred. “Can I get seventeen?”

She tried to stifle her smile. Then she raised her paddle and called out, “Five thousand dollars.” Welcome to their meet-cute. This was a fun book that had a lot of the inner workings of the people who love rooting for them.

[Sara.Hopeful · Rating 4 out of 5]

Singled Out by Amy Knupp, book 1 in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series is a Sister's Best Friend, Single Dad, Friends with Benefits, Slow Burn romance. Narrated by Erin Mallon and Sebastian York, Singled Out is has sassy banter, lighthearted humor, chemistry and characters readers will fall in love with. Author Amy Knupp created a world and characters that readers will find relatable and quickly build a bond with and get readers quickly invested in finding out what couple will be featured next. Singled Out address some topics with raw detail and emotion. Narrator Erin Mallon does a great job portraying Harper's ups and down of wanting to meet parental expectations of 'success' and character growth when it comes to her feelings about Max. Narrator Sebastian York gives readers a great insight to Max. His need to be a great dad, protective and loving, but also character growth of realizing that sometime love is worth the risk. Singled Out is a great additional for all summer TBR lists!

FMC Harper is creative and full of energy but has commitment issues even when it comes to picking out hobbies, with the exception of 2 things her love for art and working at the dinner. Making jewelry is her happy place but taking it to the next level and making it a real business is scary. What does she know about running a business? Recently losing a close friend and keeping a promise to support the arts in her honor, Harper dresses up for a charity auction with money in her pocket to burn but unsure how she'll spend it. Not much in the silent auction caught her mind so her friend Dakota dares her to use it on the Win a Date portion of the evening. Dakota doesn't stop there though; her dare is for Harper to bid on Dakota's brother Max. Harper thinks what's the harm, she could use a date for Naomie's award ceremony, and it would be nice not to have to go alone. Winning Max in the auction though starts them both on a journey they could have never predicted. MMC Max recently become a single dad about a year ago, when his cousin died a year ago and left his 1 year old with Max as his guardian. At the time Max couldn't understand why his cousin made this decision, but promised he'd be the best dad to Danny he could be. Max knew all too well what having a bad father was like and he would never let Danny grow up knowing that feeling. Max dedicated himself to Danny and when he wasn't with Danny he was at school teaching match or coaching football. With the schedule he had there wasn't time for much else, yet somehow, he got convinced to sign up for the Win a Date auction. Yes it was for a good cause, the high school could use an Art program, but he didn't have time to date. When Harper won him at the auction, he knew he had to be careful. She was 10 years his junior and her dad was his boss, the principle at his high school. Everything changed the night of the date though, one kiss from Harper and he was a goner. Neither of them could stop thinking of the other and quickly a friends with benefits pact was made, there was just two rules, no feels and no strings. Benefits quickly shifted to really getting to know each other on a deeper level and lines started to blur. Will Harper finally break her commitment phobia and decide Max and Danny are worth forever? Will Max be strong enough to overcome his fears and take a real shot at being with Harper? Read Singled Out by Amy Knupp and find out if Max makes the game winning score with Harper or if the clock runs out on them.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first fell in love with author Amy Knupp’s sexy, witty small-town romances with Untold, the prequel to the Henry Brothers Series. Each book was wonderful and the last one, Unraveled, gave us a glimpse of Max, one of the single dads who meet regularly in Dragonfly Lake to chill, talk about the difficulty of being a single dad, and just have some man time with others who know where they’re coming from and don’t judge. So imagine my delight at being given an advance listening copy of Singled Out, the first book in the new Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series, starring – MAX DAWSON!!

I love Dragonfly Lake and all its tentacles: each successive book and series moves forward while also looking back to people you’ve already met. Kind of like finding more family and friends who are somehow all connected to one another. Both Harper Ellison and Max Dawson are from Dragonfly Lake, but that’s about all the have in common.

Harper’s never really left and she’s not sure she ever will because she has no life plan. Not for anything. Not for a career. Not for a relationship. Take life as it comes is her motto. Day-by-day is almost too much commitment for her. Hour-by-hour is better. She’s capable, talented and has friends, but it seems she’s never really finished anything and doesn’t think long-term things work out. Until her friend Naomi dies and she starts thinking about her approach. And until she meets Max Dawson.

Max is one serious guy, and the opposite to Harper in his life plans. Once a football quarterback, he’s now living back in Dragonfly Lake and teaching high school math. He became an instant daddy when his cousin and cousin’s wife were killed in an accident and Max became the baby’s guardian. Little Danny is his whole world, and he takes that responsibility so seriously he actually believes he should not date, much less marry, until Danny is grown. What if something should happen to a woman Max brings into his life? He would subject Danny to another loss, that’s what, and Max will not do that. Certain in his belief and life plan. Until he meets Harper Ellison.

Max is a good man. Serious, generous, caring, dedicated and oh so worried and uncertain. You have to fall in love with him. Harper sounds like a flake on paper, but she’s not. She just won’t take that step to move forward, to find herself. When these two get together it’s amazing. Instant connection and instant attraction. Max drags his feet and resists and resists, but it’s almost like an invisible force is pushing him towards Harper. They agree no strings, no commitment, no future, no one getting hurt, no one getting feelings. But you know – life. And life can be pretty funny. Avoiding, falling, pulling back, and drawn together like magnets – and some hilarious shenanigans involving a llama.

Singled Out is a perfect addition to a wealth of stories that make you laugh, a lot. But you will also feel sad about situations people think they must stay in, and of course there’s the heat. That mad wild attraction that just will not cool down. Amy Knupp creates such a wonderful world, so magic you won’t want to leave.

Thanks to the author and Home Cooked Books for providing an advance listening copy of Singled Out. Knupp’s books are amazing, but in audiobook? Whatever is beyond amazing is what they are. And that’s what Erin Mallon and Sebastian York are – beyond amazing. Erin Mallon is almost always perfect – well, actually, no almost about it, she is always perfect. And Sebastian York did such a terrific blend of that worried daddy and hunky football player thing that it was just tingly. Yes, tingly. We had Knox’s single dad story in Unexpected, and now we’ve had Max’s. But there are a lot of single dads in Dragonfly Lake and I can’t wait to see whose story is up next. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Singled Out is book one in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series and is the emotional, sexy, age gap, single dad, forbidden boss’s daughter, opposites attract, small town contemporary romance of Harper Ellison and Max Dawson.
Harper is a free-spirited artist, someone who has never liked to make commitment. But since the loss of her friend Naomi, she has found herself more directionless than usual. However, she decides to do something wild at a bachelor charity auction when her best friend Dakota convinces her to bid on her brother Max, one of Dragonfly Lakes most eligible single dads. And despite the fact Harper and Max have and instant connection and attraction, they are polar opposite of one another. The agree a no strings, no commitment, no feelings, no one getting hurt arrangement, but, the more time she and Max spend together, the more she begins to think about the future and her future career, and she can finally see herself setting down roots and settling down.
Max is a good man and serious man. A former NFL quarterback who has returned to small town Dragonfly Lake, teaching high school math and being the best Dad to 18-month-old Danny. Max became an instant Daddy when his cousin and cousin’s wife lost their lives in an accident and Max became Danny’s legal guardian. Despite him having no experience with children, Max has taken to the roll like a duck to water. Danny is his entire world, and he takes his responsibility as a father so serious he hasn’t been on a date since he took custody of little Danny. His reason for not dating is that he wouldn’t want Danny to get attached to someone only for something to happen and for him to experience another loss. But free-spirited commitment phobe Harper is the exception to his rule, as the more time he spends with her the more he becomes addicted. Max finds himself falling for the one woman he shouldn’t fall for, his boss’s daughter yet he can’t help it when he see’s how great she is with Danny.
This incredible series opener is brought to life by the insanely talented Erin Mallon and Sebastian York, and sweet baby Jesus, what a phenomenal job they do!
Ms Mallon’s performance as the kind, caring, laid back, directionless, grief-stricken Harper was incredible. Her perfect depiction of the woman who doesn’t think long term until she wins Max in a bachelor auction, and they go from a no feelings/no strings attached deal to more was absolute perfection!
Mr York’s portrayal of dedicated single dad Max was phenomenal. Sebastian perfectly characterises the oh so serious, uncertain, ex NFL player turned math teacher who feels he must push Harper away to protect his son.
Overall, I loved this audiobook. I am obsessed with small town Dragonfly Lake and its residents and am super excited we get to meet more of the fabulous people who call this place home. I loved Harper and Max’s story, from the instant connection to the no strings attached arrangement, to the swoony overprotective single dad routine, the hilarious shenanigans involving a Houdini llama who is often found on the run to get his sugar fix from the local bakery but most importantly the way these two broken souls help each other grow and evolve is simply brilliant. I cannot wait for more from the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Harper and Max’s story in Singled Out by Amy Knupp, book one in her Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series. This is a beautiful, sweet, age-gap, and heartwarming story, that explores the unexpected nature of love and the challenges of balancing personal desires with newfound responsibilities. The story centers around Harper and Max, two individuals who find themselves drawn to each other despite the numerous reasons they should stay apart.

Harper, a free spirit, is lost and directionless; not knowing what she wants to do with her life. She has always felt she didn’t fit in as she is not like her dad or her siblings. She knows it is time to take on some responsibility and get her life together. She enjoys exploring her artistic talents with her friends. While attending the auction supporting the cause created by her friend, Naomi, who has sadly passed, and with money left by Naomi for her to spend at the charity; Harper considers bidding on one of the eligible men. Her best friend Dakota dares Harper to bid on her brother Max; a single dad, ten years older, very handsome, and works for her dad.

Max, a former NFL star turned high school math teacher and coach, unexpectedly became a single dad after the death of his cousin. Max’s focus is on Daniel and he spends all his free time showering love on to his son. During a weak moment, Max agreed to participate in a bachelor auction supporting art in education; he is reluctant to be there and away from his young son, Daniel. He spends all his free time ensuring that his son has everything he can ever need and has no time, nor room, for a relationship, let alone love.

Max and Harper bonded over grief; being there for one another to listen and advise when asked. Their chemistry was undeniable and it ultimately led them to a secret fling. Their relationship wasn’t without struggle, but Harper and Max finally realizing their love for one another was perfect. They complemented each other beautifully.

This one dare led her to the biggest commitment of her life; the start of a sizzling and secret fling that quickly becomes complicated as real emotions start to grow. Harper begins a journey of self-discovery and finding confidence to pursue a future that fits her. Max is overwhelmed with his responsibilities as a single dad to his cousin’s little boy, a teacher, and a dedicated coach. His life is already chaotic, and the last thing he needs is a romance that could jeopardize his professional and personal relationships; except his connection with Harper is undeniable, as he struggles between duty and desire. The chemistry between the Max and Harper sizzles and sparks off the charts. There are some great secondary characters; especially his son Daniel and sister Dakota, who provide moments of humor, warmth, and support.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[DarcyLovesLiza · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid series opener…

Story: 4.5 ⭐️s
Narration: 5 ⭐️s

The first book in Knupp’s new series set in the previously well-established Dragonfly Lake more firmly introduces the single dad posse she teased in Knox’s book (the final Henry Bros. book - though you do not have to have read that series to enjoy this one). The first single dad up is Max, former pro-football player, now math teacher and coach. He meets his match in Harper, an artist and the daughter of his principal boss.

Both MCs are dealing with grief after a loss, so there are some fine moments throughout that meaningfully showcase those struggles. Though both have a similar loss, they are at different points in that journey, and offer each other valuable perspective. Harper sees herself as without purpose, while Max has an ultimate purpose in his son, Danny - and they both need balance. Right from their meet cute at a bachelor auction there is great chemistry which continues to grow at an appealing pace. They initially have a purely sexual relationship, but of course they both can’t help but catch feelings. It’s enjoyable to see that happen because they make a great pair.

I really enjoyed Harper’s character arc, and seeing how she came into her own after being a little bit at sea. (She was consistently sure about what she didn’t want, and when she realizes what she actually does want, it’s pretty great.) As always, Knupp has established some great secondary characters that the listener hopes will take center stage in future installments. Max’s dad posse is a given, but Harper’s friends are also fun, and I hope to see more of them. While Naomi’s brother, Ian isn’t part of the single dad roster (so far), I still really want to know more about him! Maybe he and Dakota had a connection? Here’s hoping someday!

While I love a single parent story, I don’t enjoy the age-gap trope - and especially since it just happened in Knox’s story its presence felt a little redundant. However, because really jived with these characters and had fun being back in the Dragonfly Lake world, I was mostly able to ignore it. I just hope that particular trope disappears for a bit as the series continues.

The audiobook was fan-tab-ulous ! Sebastian York and Erin Mallon are total pros, and are perfectly matched to each other, as well as to their characters. They bring their audio A game, adding their consistent charm and affability as performers to the story. Audios like this make it obvious why they are among the best in the narration business. ❤️🎧

Another wholeheartedly recommended listen and I can’t wait for the next!

Many thanks to Home Cooked Books for an ALC copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.

[Cahdii · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧Audiobook Review 🎧

Dual Narration by Erin Mallon and Sebastian York
Narration 🎤: 4/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This is a nice, cozy, summer read. I love a single dad, small town romance, and this gave me the warm, fuzzy feelings I was expecting. This is the first book I’ve read by Amy Knupp and I enjoyed her writing.

This is the first book in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake and follows the story of Max and Harper. Max is a former football star turned high school coach and Harper is a budding artist. I love that this book starts off in the middle of the action. It starts with Harper bidding on and winning a date with Max, who is 10 years older than her and her best friend, Dakota’s, brother. It’s supposed to be platonic, with Harper simply needing a date for an event so she doesn’t have to go alone, but soon they discover they have chemistry and eventually begin a secret fling; secret because Harper’s father is Max’s boss and has warned him off her. Soon the line between a casual and serious starts to blur.

I loved the cozy feel of this book. The lakeside setting just added to the charm of the story. I love small town romances because of the strong community that always surrounds the main characters, and this book delivers on that. I love to see strong female friendships in this book. I liked that this wasn’t your typical single dad story, in the Max’s son isn’t biologically his, so he doesn’t have the emotional wounds of divorce, or a break up or spousal loss to overcome. His challenges are different and it was refreshing to read. It was so heartwarming to see how much he loves his son and how he takes parenting seriously, despite the unexpected nature of his becoming Daniel’s dad.

Considering that both Harper and Max were averse to commitment, but for completely different reasons, it was interesting to see their relationship grow from friends-to-benefits to real feelings and how they battled with their reasons for wanting to avoid commitment. I really liked them as a couple. I think they were exactly what the other person needed. Harper brought out Max’s playful side and showed him that it’s alright to let loose sometimes. Max gave Harper the confidence and support to follow her dreams.

This book has some great side characters that form a community of people who look out for and support each other. They also add humour to the story. Max is part of a single dad’s group and it’s the first time I’ve come across that in a book. It was nice to see. From the title of this series, I’m guessing the dads in the group are all going to be getting their own books and I think we got a hint in this book of whose book is going to be next. There was a bit of drama surrounding that character and it’s already endeared me to him. I can’t wait to read his story.

I really enjoyed the narration of this book. It was performed in dual style by Sebastian York and Erin Mallon. This was the first book I’d heard by Sebastian York and I enjoyed his performance. Erin Mallon has become one of my favourite narrators of late and she didn’t dissapoint. One of my favourite things about her narration is how she nails the male voices every time. Both narrators really embodied the personalities of the characters they were portraying, including the side characters, which really brought the story to life.

Why you’ll like this book:
💙Small town
💚Opposites attract
💙Boss’s daughter
💚Age gap
💙Single dad
💚Football coach hero
💙Secret fling

*I received an advanced copy from Homecooked books and this is my honest review.

[A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook and Book Review

💚Single dad
💙Former NFL player
💚Boss’s daughter
💙Auction
💚Age gap
💙Llama hide and seek

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️.5
Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, sweet, swoonworthy romance, then this is for you! That epilogue?! Be still my heart! This is my first Amy Knupp book thanks to Home Cooked Books who sent me a free book and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review. I really liked this story and I now want to read more of her books!

Max was not looking for anything in the relationship department. He has his son to focus on. So when Harper took him on one no strings attached date, that was good enough for him. Until, it wasn’t. I liked Max a lot. Did he have typical guy issues? Yeah, he’s a guy 😂 but eventually he faced some realities. Max is sweet, thoughtful, has a dominant side, and is a great dad. The latter was a heartbreaking part of his life.

Harper feel like she has always been lacking in life because she is not as “smart” or “skilled” or “accomplished” as her dad or siblings, but a chance encounter with an old friend provides an opportunity for her to take a leap into doing something with purpose. I loved seeing Harper grow and take chances, not only with her love life, but with her career.

The chemistry between the Max and Harper is unmistakable. I love that he is such a good dad and that Harper, even though she is not experienced with children, is embracing being around his son, even though it’s complicated. There are some great side characters and a neat little town that I’d love to visit!

I’m absolutely in love with Sebastian York’s narration. He is my favorite narrator and one of the reasons I wanted to listen to this audiobook. Him narrating a single dad?? SWOON. Omg there’s that softness of being a dad but it’s balanced by a dominance in the bedroom. He is perfection.

And that is not to discount the GREATNESS that is Erin Mallon. I have listened to her several times and I adore her narration. She also brings out Harper’s snarky/trouble maker side, but also the uncertainty of her life, and of course the bedroom antics. She is one of the best in the business and I gravitate towards audiobooks that she narrates because of her skill!

🦙“Do you want kids?” “Not really, they’re a bit commitment-y”
🦙 “I want to kiss you… I want to touch you all over, taste every bit of you. Push my c*** inside of you until you feel it in your chest.”
🦙 “I want to taste every square inch of your body.”
🦙 “Not sure I can hold up to that without coming apart.” “Oh, you’re going to come apart. Over and over and over.”

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Story & Narration🎧Engrossing & Heartfelt!

Singled Out
Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake
By: Amy Knupp
Narrated by: Erin Mallon, Sebastian York

Amy Knupp pens another wonderful novel, a small town contemporary romance and start of an amazing new series, “Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake”. The story drew me in right from the start, grabbing my attention and holding it captive the entire time. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are likable and easy to care about too. Harper is still trying to figure out what she wants to do in life, though she is artsy and enjoys creating jewelry pieces. She lived with a friend who recently passed away and her friend made a request on what to spend her savings on, so she, at the suggestion of her friend Dakota, would use the money at a charity auction, bid on a date with Dakota’s brother Max. Max, former professional football player, is a math teacher and coach of the H.S football team. Wearing those two hats keeps him busy enough, but after a tragic accident killed his cousin, he got full custody of his infant son. Harper and Max’s date went well, and after seeing there was an unexpected guest at her house, he did not want her to stay there, so he took her home. These two were opposites, but they both had the same stance on relationships, neither wanting one. The chemistry between them was undeniable and they could not help but give into it, but it was complicated so they needed to be discreet. I loved all the layers of the story and how it all plays out, the writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. I also love the single dad’s club and the friendship between Harper and Dakota. This story has the perfect balance of drama, charm, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. Amy Knupp, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride. 

🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Amy Knupp cast the perfect narrators to bring her characters and story to life. Erin Mallon and Sebastian York are mega talented voice artists and entertaining storytellers. Their character voices were fitting and I love how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound. Both were amazing as the two leads, York nailing it as Max and Mallon as Harper, each grasping every aspect of their personalities and they were just as fabulous performing the roles of the secondary characters too. They set the right tone for the story, captured all the characters’ performances and had you feeling them all. Thanks for another fabulous listen.

[Cigi cini · Rating 4 out of 5]

🔥single dad
🔥age gap
🔥forbidden love
🔥bachelor auction
🔥boss’s daughter
🔥opposites attract
🔥secret fling
🔥small town
🔥steamy contemporary

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Singled Out" by Amy Knupp is the First book in the Single Dads of Dragonfly Lake series - is a heartfelt and engaging contemporary romance that explores the unexpected nature of love and the challenges of balancing personal desires with newfound responsibilities. The story centers around Harper and Max, two individuals who find themselves drawn to each other despite the numerous reasons they should stay apart.

Harper, a woman accustomed to avoiding commitment, suddenly finds herself rethinking her life choices after bidding on Max, her best friend’s brother, at a bachelor auction. This impulsive decision leads to a steamy and secretive fling that quickly becomes more complicated as real emotions start to surface. Harper’s journey of self-discovery and her struggle to embrace responsibility add depth to her character, making her relatable and sympathetic.

Max, on the other hand, is overwhelmed with commitments as a single dad and a dedicated coach. His life is already chaotic, and the last thing he needs is a romance that could jeopardize his professional and personal relationships. Yet, his connection with Harper is undeniable, and his internal conflict between duty and desire is poignantly portrayed.

Amy Knupp’s writing shines in her ability to create realistic and multifaceted characters. The chemistry between Harper and Max is palpable, and their journey from a casual fling to a deeper, more meaningful relationship is both compelling and believable. The author deftly handles the complexities of their situation, including the pressures of parenthood, career responsibilities, and societal expectations.

The secondary characters, particularly Max’s child and Harper’s best friend, add richness to the story, providing moments of humor, warmth, and support that enhance the main narrative. The setting and situations are vividly described, immersing readers in the lives of the characters and the dynamics of their world.

Overall, "Singled Out" is a charming and emotionally resonant novel that captures the unpredictability of love and the courage it takes to embrace it. Amy Knupp delivers a well-crafted romance that will appeal to fans of the genre, leaving them rooting for Harper and Max to find their happily ever after amidst the chaos of their lives.