Hello Darling: An office, her ex-boyfriend's dad, romance

by Bodie Summers

Grace
I always believed there was something wrong with me as my boyfriend couldn’t get me excited, but perhaps it wasn’t me as his dad’s praise and touch seep into my skin and call me closer.

I know I shouldn’t fall for my ex’s dad, who is also my boss. I know better than that, and yet, I can’t stop as I’ll do everything for him just to hear him tell me how good I’ve been.

I’ll do everything to be his good girl.

Daniel
My control slips through my fingers. My restraints fade as she takes them all away.

I should keep her at a distance, but all I want is to be selfish and claim my darling all for myself.

'Hello Darling' is an extra smutty contemporary romance. For more tropes and possible triggers, check the copyright page.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Contemporary

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2024

Reviews

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. I am always for a workplace romance. Ms. Summers take is different. She adds a lot of elements that ramps workplace relationship up a notch. Grace Thomas was meek and mild. She tried to stay out of the spotlight, but where did that get her. Single and full of doubt, Grace starts a new job working for her ex-boyfriend’s father. Her ex got her the job, or least, that is what he thought.

Grace with a new job and roommate, slowly started speaking up for herself. Including getting what she wanted. What she wanted, she knew she could never have. There was no way her ex’s father wanted her, right?

Daniel Brooks knew Grace was more than his son could handle. Daniel knew just what to do with a woman like Grace. Was she willing to explore more with him? This is not just an age gap workplace romance. There is so much more going on. This book is just the right length to give readers a story that they can get in to. As usual, I enjoyed this book. Ms. Summers will always be an automatic read. No matter the genre.

[Anonymous · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 46%.

I couldn't relate to the FMC or MMC. There was NO depth to either character. The plot was boring and drawn out.

I even put the book down, read another book, picked it back up, and finally decided to STOP torturing myself so that it would get better.

It was disappointing because I loved her book, Katie, and was eager to read another one of her books.

Absolutely dry story with dry characters. I'm thankful it was on KU because if I'd actually purchased the book, I'd be mad at wasting money.

[TheReaderVert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pleasure dom gets his darling

Bodie Summers is an expert writer. She has a way of writing things that sucks me in even when tropes aren't necessarily my fav. Here we have the MMC who is totally smitten with the FMC and all the tropes fall out...size kink...age gap...son's ex-girlfriend/ex-boyfriend's dad...for her pleasure....office forbidden romance and all of it was done expertly. It was hot and steamy. I don't typically go gaga for praise kink. I prefer degradation praise, but it was well incorporated and woven within the story as it represented the FMCs growth and empowerment. A sweet character, one who is bright & kind and most of all really good at her job coming out of the destruction of an emotionally draining and manipulative relationship she needed the guidance the MMC provided. I liked how he was in this situation clearly a pleasure dom to her submission but it wasn't the typical BDSM rules.

Just a well done contemporary office forbidden romance!

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the moment the story unfolds, it’s clear that Grace had known that her relationship with Sebastian (Bash) was over. Frankly, I wasn't sorry to see it end, especially with the way he treated her, even after they had split. Whether it was her time with Bash or something deeper, Grace was clearly struggling with self-confidence, constantly second-guessing herself. It was almost painful to watch her work so hard in her job for Bash’s father, Daniel, without receiving any of the credit she deserved. But Daniel? Oh, he saw everything. He’d been quietly observing her for a while, fully aware that his son was never right for Grace and that he could offer her what she'd been missing. And boy, was he right. I loved how Daniel was so attuned to Grace’s needs, both emotionally and physically. His focus on her pleasure, always asking for her consent with each tantalizing step—it was refreshing, intimate, and oh-so-satisfying. Grace couldn’t get enough of his touch, and the way he showered her with praise was utterly seductive. While the “good girl” kink certainly ignited something in Grace, for me, the moments when Daniel called her “darling” were the most intimate and tender. His slow, deliberate seduction wasn’t just about physical chemistry; it was about emotional connection, making their romance feel genuine and real. Daniel took his time, and that gentle approach made their relationship blossom in the best way. And let’s not forget Grace's roommate, Ashley! She quickly became more than just a friend, giving Grace that extra nudge to step outside her comfort zone and come into her own. Her journey from self-doubt to confidence, from feeling overshadowed to realizing her worth, was a joy to see. By the end, Grace had blossomed into the strong, self-assured woman she was always meant to be.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello Darling is a standalone contemporary romance by Bodie Summer. The story uses the popular age gap trope of a younger woman falling for her ex's father (and in this case he also happens to be her boss!). Being an age gap and workplace romance, there is a pretty big gap in the power dynamic, though I honestly didn't mind at all.

Grace's world shatters when, shortly after getting a job for her boyfriend's father, her relationship falls apart. Her ex is nothing but a spoilt child and that becomes more clear to Grace when she begins to get to know her ex's father, her boss, Daniel. However, not everything is easy for Grace. She is getting some grief at work, but sees that there is no way out because she needs her job.

Daniel, the uber wealthy, older man of the title did his son a father when he hired the girlfriend. But then the couple broke up and Daniel and he allowed himself to actually meet Grace and then get to know her. As an employee, Daniel learns quite quickly what a gem he has in Grace, and he instantly steps in to support her. But the chemistry between them is hot and control is lost on both sides.

This is a pretty steamy read, tending more towards erotica, though I wouldn't call it overly smutty and it doesn't rely on heavy sex scenes to take away from the actual storyline and character development. It leaning heavily on the office romance aspect of the relationship, and mixes in a couple other kinky elements.

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

[Teigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5* rounded up.

I loved book 2 when I read it a year ago but this book was just sex and drama.

Sebastian (her ex) is pissed that she doesn't want sex 24/7. Also he admitted to begging her for sex and she repeatedly says no until she gives in? Pretty sure that's rape but literally no one talks about that part??

Daniel (the MMC + ex's dad) is just there for sex. Let's be honest. Searching for "petite redhead porn" on his work computer at a large company is mistake number one. Then he makes her fix the computer knowing full well he left that tab open for her to see. The rest of the book he just wants to pleasure her and play with her.

Grace (the FMC) just goes along with whatever is happening. Oh her boss is dropping all of their work on her while they sit, do nothing and complain all day? Fine by Grace. Her ex's dad wants to play with her and leave massive hints of what he wants to do to her? Yeah she's suddenly interested.

The last 40% of the book was just sexual activities and drama with his ex wife and son then it's sex stuff again.

He's got her hands in her pussy... Hold up! The ex wife and son are magically there causing drama and arguing to get Grace fired! What a shocker.

[Curvy Girl Book Nerd (Jen S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello, Darling is a steamy, instalove, OTT, opposites-attract, girl gets her ex's dad office romance. Grace starts as a somewhat shy and meek people pleaser. She is very smart and a hard worker. She is initially dating Sebastian "Bash" who is an arrogant spoiled boy, He gets her a job at his father's company but tends to take credit for her work. They end up breaking up, but Daniel, Bash's dad, is a hunky silver fox. He is a pleasure dom and her boss. But he sees what a gem Grace is and wants to treat her like the good girl she is. She wants him just as much. He treats her like a queen and unlocks her praise kink while building up her self-confidence and self-esteem.This was such a hot and steamy read. Their chemistry was off the charts hot, and the emotional connection was everything. I think I fell in love with Daniel a little bit myself. This was my first book by this author but not the last.

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

[Polli.p · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Hello Darling the focus is on Daniel and Grace as Daniel makes a play for Grace, who never enjoyed sex until being with this older man. Once she discovers he is what inflames her passion she wants more and the relationship deepens from office fling to true love.

Due to her cautious nature and Grace's ex boyfriend the relationship is slow to develop. This story is the journey Grace and Daniel take and the pitfalls and opposition they face along the way. It's well written from dual POV's which push the plot along and keep it interesting.

Tropes include: older man, boss/employee, father of ex boyfriend, innocent (ish), shy girl, praise.

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

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fab and steamy romance that takes shy and introverted Grace on the journey of her lifetime to becoming her best possible self. She gets a job at Daniel's business, since his son begged for it for her, but then his son broke up with her. You can expect some serious family drama to ramp things up for them ;) Daniel kept her on as she was quite the worker bee and he felt he had a true gem in her skills. He was also thrilled at her single status because he'd lusted after her since he first met her with his son... If you love the taboo of an office romance, age-gap romance and ex's father, you'll love this one. I also love that Daniel was a pleasure dom and loved consent. So hot! This was a one-sit read for me and I'll be watching for the next book :D

[Mary Fazzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

a quick read

Grace is suck in a relationship that isn’t love but more of roommates. She is blamed for a lot of the issues in her relationship but it’s only her fault. Her ex helped her get a job with a coworker that only talks down to her and belittles her. Her self worth is almost completely gone until Daniel stops to see her. Daniel is her ex’s dad but something about him sends her in a flush state. She is craving to be noticed and told she is doing good. Daniel wants Grace but with him being older it is a scary thing. They start as a secret but then see it’s way more than that. They have feelings for each other quickly.

[Praline 99 · Rating 4 out of 5]

age gap romance.
Grace is a shy and introverted young woman who breaks up with her boyfriend for the same reason. The day after her breakup she starts a new job in Daniel's company, her ex-boyfriend's father.
Daniel had a crush on Grace when he saw her with her son, so the fact that she broke up with his son and works for him is a blessing for him.
But will they be able to overcome the age difference as well as the fact that she is his son's ex-girlfriend...

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

[Merilu Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bodie Summers: this book is amazing! I love the emotional connection between Grace and Daniel, especially the way he makes her feel about herself. It’s a beautifully written age gap romance that’s lusty with plenty of sexy scenes that push her limits. He revels in her responsiveness, her sweet nature, and her honesty. A little exhibitionism, voyeurism, and all kinds of ‘firsts’ for her pleasure and his desire. The ending is special and leaves hope for a lifetime of love!!.

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

[Nicole Deanne Veracruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace was in an unhealthy relationship with Sebastian. She got fired from her job and he helped her get an interview at his dad's company. Before she even started the new job he broke up with her. She later finds out from his dad that he had been cheating on her with somebody else in the office. Daniel is her ex's dad and her boss he quickly sees the potential in her. But Grace can't figure out why she went from having no sex drive or interest to suddenly hot and bothered for her ex's dad.

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

[Camilla Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bodie brings the heat yet again! If you have read “Hello Kitten” but the same author, you know you’re in for a good read! She delivered just as I hoped on this one, too!

Pretty steamy read, but with a good storyline and decent plot. If you’re a fan of the age-gap trope and forbidden office relationships, this one’s for you! I read this SO fast because I couldn’t put it down! Go get this ASAP!

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

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel and Grace's romance starts in awkward predicament. He isn't just the boss but the ex's dad. Their hidden attraction started prior to Grace working for Daniel but devolops as she finds his porn tabs. Their work relationship quickly turns into a kinky romance. The age gap and taboo nature of the relationship is somewhat unbelievable especially in the workplace but makes for a hot fantasy read.

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

[LeeAnn Hynden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello Darling

The story itself was amazing. I would have given this a 5 star rating except the ending just felt like it was rushed and just chopped off. I feel like they should have written more about the relationship after it was outed and how they overcame that obstacle. Otherwise, great book!!

[Earth Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best story ever. Daniel and Grace are two broken souls finding each other. I totally enjoyed reading this book. It's very well written and the characters are well developed. And it's hot 🔥🔥🔥. Brodie does not disappoint. Enjoy everyone

[Nate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was Daniel and Grace’s story. Grace knows she shouldn’t fall for her ex’s dad, who is also her boss. But she can’t help it. It was an interesting workplace read. And voluntarily leaving this review.

[Emily Carter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was so happy with this book until the end. I wanted to give this writer another chance, but their books just end abruptly, which makes no sense. This book flowed through well, but again, the ending didn't do it for me. Sad to see their writing like this.

[Narelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel may be her ex-boyfriend's father, and her new boss, but he and Grace have a sizzling chemistry. Read on if you like a little Darling or Good Girl with your romance.

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

[Brittany Trynor · Rating 4 out of 5]

🔥 🥵 hot for sure ex boyfriends dad who is also her boss and a pleasure dom yes yes yes I mean I really don't think I need to say more

[Alisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spicyyy this book makes you clench your thighs together so hard and makes you want a older man to love you so fully it's scary. I enjoyed the plot and smut was A+

[Tracy H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello Darling
Book 1
by
Bodie Summers

The story and characters were well written and developed. I enjoyed the chemistry and journey. Great read.

[Orsolya · Rating 2 out of 5]

No plot, no interesting characters, however...it was hot.

[Kirsten Sargent-Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

This book is amazing! Its heart warming and a little spicy! I do recommend this book if you are looking for light read.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow burn

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

quick read

Lots of smut, the story is okay. Not the worst thing I’ve ever read but not really much going to it beyond the descriptive scenes.

[Aries Will Never Finish Their TBR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bodie Summers is truly one of my all time favorite authors, and "Hello, Darling" was a book I've been looking forward to FOR MONTHS.

This novel is the perfect follow up to Hello, Kitten (mind you NOT a sequel as none of the characters make an appearance in Hello, Darling) where we see the sweeter side of Bodie's characters.

Grace is a young woman down on her luck, learning to stand on her own after a lifetime of being a people pleaser and not having anything to show for it. With the help of her new roommate, she's learning to stand on her own and explore what brings her peace.

Daniel is a devoted man who values consent and his partners pleasure above all else, so if you read Katie and were bothered by the DubCon or CNC, definitely give Hello, Darling a try.

Even with the insistent consent and no BDSM (at least not IMHO), I still rate this at 5 🌶 on the spice level thanks to the taboo nature of dating not only your boss, but your ex's dad as well.