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The Rose City #1
Finding Home: Single dad, nanny romance
When a family secret shatters her world....
Hope Morgan thought she had it all—a fancy business degree, a reliable family, financial stability, and a secure future in sunny California—until she discovered her parents’ best kept secret. With her trust destroyed she abandons her old life and heads to Portland, Oregon seeking a new identity built on independence. Except now she’s broke, unemployed, and one step from becoming a burden on her best friend in their apartment above a bar. But Hope’s never been a quitter, and she’s determined to make it on her own. She just needs an opportunity.
His life was just fine, until she blew into it.
Grumpy bar owner, Gabe Walsh doesn’t have the time or patience for the spoiled rich girl slumming it above his bar. He’s busy raising his six-year-old daughter and running his business. The wealthy construction magnate’s daughter can go “find herself” somewhere else.
But Hope keeps surprising him, and the more time they spend together, the more Gabe finds himself drawn to her determination and sweetness. She’s motivated to make it on her own, and he respects that. Not only that but she’s come to his rescue more than once, and when she steps in to be his daughter’s nanny, she quickly starts becoming a lifeline too. Maybe she’s exactly what his little family needs. The glue to piece them back together.
Can two opposites overcome their differences to build an unbreakable family? Or will their fears, and haunted pasts destroy their chance to find a home together?
Find out in Hope and Gabe's search for truth and forgiveness in this steamy, heartfelt story of redemption and love.
Hope Morgan thought she had it all—a fancy business degree, a reliable family, financial stability, and a secure future in sunny California—until she discovered her parents’ best kept secret. With her trust destroyed she abandons her old life and heads to Portland, Oregon seeking a new identity built on independence. Except now she’s broke, unemployed, and one step from becoming a burden on her best friend in their apartment above a bar. But Hope’s never been a quitter, and she’s determined to make it on her own. She just needs an opportunity.
His life was just fine, until she blew into it.
Grumpy bar owner, Gabe Walsh doesn’t have the time or patience for the spoiled rich girl slumming it above his bar. He’s busy raising his six-year-old daughter and running his business. The wealthy construction magnate’s daughter can go “find herself” somewhere else.
But Hope keeps surprising him, and the more time they spend together, the more Gabe finds himself drawn to her determination and sweetness. She’s motivated to make it on her own, and he respects that. Not only that but she’s come to his rescue more than once, and when she steps in to be his daughter’s nanny, she quickly starts becoming a lifeline too. Maybe she’s exactly what his little family needs. The glue to piece them back together.
Can two opposites overcome their differences to build an unbreakable family? Or will their fears, and haunted pasts destroy their chance to find a home together?
Find out in Hope and Gabe's search for truth and forgiveness in this steamy, heartfelt story of redemption and love.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2024
68 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
About the author
Valentina Burns
4 books58 followersValentina Burns is a contemporary romance author living on Vancouver Island with her husband, two children and multitude of pets.
She picked up her very first romance novel when she was fifteen years old at her High School fall fair, and has been devouring the genre ever since. She’s long dreamed of writing her own romance books and is inspired by stories that have strong female protagonists and their swoon-worthy, well-muscled heroes. She loves to create believable and relatable characters that readers can connect with.
Drawing upon her own life experiences, Valentina writes books that are genuine, emotional, and entertaining, with more than a little heat served on the side.
She picked up her very first romance novel when she was fifteen years old at her High School fall fair, and has been devouring the genre ever since. She’s long dreamed of writing her own romance books and is inspired by stories that have strong female protagonists and their swoon-worthy, well-muscled heroes. She loves to create believable and relatable characters that readers can connect with.
Drawing upon her own life experiences, Valentina writes books that are genuine, emotional, and entertaining, with more than a little heat served on the side.
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September 22, 2023Thought since I wrote this book I deserved to write a review on it. I know how far it came, I know how many times I tore it apart and re-wrote entire sections, I know the heart of the characters, and where they came from. I know the story behind the story and it means so much to me to see the love for it on here. It rises above the negativity. And since I have read this book about a thousand times in various stages, I'm giving it and all my hard work a solid five star! Would read again!
July 4, 2023
“I’m scared.”
“Give some of it to me. Let me help you carry the fear.”
Love loved this. It was the perfect balance of sweet & spicy. I’m a sucker for single dad romances and even more so for found families. I loved the growth both Hope and Gabe experienced, it was evident Valentina put quite a bit of heart and effort into their characters. It was hard to put this down, I love how the secrets were slowly unveiled, I kept needing to know more! Amazing debut!!! It’s one I’ll definitely return to again🤍
Can we take a second to appreciate the cover? I just love it!
“Give some of it to me. Let me help you carry the fear.”
Love loved this. It was the perfect balance of sweet & spicy. I’m a sucker for single dad romances and even more so for found families. I loved the growth both Hope and Gabe experienced, it was evident Valentina put quite a bit of heart and effort into their characters. It was hard to put this down, I love how the secrets were slowly unveiled, I kept needing to know more! Amazing debut!!! It’s one I’ll definitely return to again🤍
Can we take a second to appreciate the cover? I just love it!
October 15, 2024
Beautiful and emotional story! I loved Gabe and Hope; they were both so relatable and felt real. The side characters were such authentic friendships for each of them, too, and I could see the seeds of book 2 planted (but not forced) which is fun, especially to anticipate a healing story for Ivy.
Gabe was a super swoony MMC with slight dom vibes in the best way, and I didn't blame Hope for falling hard and fast! Hot tattooed bartender? I'm sold!
Loved the overarching theme of family and how Hope's arc went from someone seeking independence to realizing family was most important—even if it didn't look the way she thought it should. And Gabe's second chance at love after losing his wife was a beautiful way for him to heal as well.
Gabe was a super swoony MMC with slight dom vibes in the best way, and I didn't blame Hope for falling hard and fast! Hot tattooed bartender? I'm sold!
Loved the overarching theme of family and how Hope's arc went from someone seeking independence to realizing family was most important—even if it didn't look the way she thought it should. And Gabe's second chance at love after losing his wife was a beautiful way for him to heal as well.
June 24, 2023
I enjoyed this from start to finish. It has hot romance but enough other intricate and meaningful storylines that kept me invested the whole time!! Plus I’m gay and I actually liked this male romance protagonist which is rare sooo you knOW he’s a good man
July 3, 2023
Finding home was an easy to read, mouth watering romance, with so many relatable characters.
Beautifully written, Valentina Burns navigates the trials and tribulations of deep rooted trauma, with wit, grace and understanding. It's so easy to get lost in the lives of Hope and Gabe, when Gabe's caution feels so familiar, and Hope's optimism reminds you to keep counting your own blessings.
I seriously read this book cover to cover, then started it again the next day and read it all over again, I just couldn't put it down, Finding Home is a book about exactly that, finding what home means to you, and how home is really in the people you love, who love you back fiercely. I can't recommend this book enough!
Beautifully written, Valentina Burns navigates the trials and tribulations of deep rooted trauma, with wit, grace and understanding. It's so easy to get lost in the lives of Hope and Gabe, when Gabe's caution feels so familiar, and Hope's optimism reminds you to keep counting your own blessings.
I seriously read this book cover to cover, then started it again the next day and read it all over again, I just couldn't put it down, Finding Home is a book about exactly that, finding what home means to you, and how home is really in the people you love, who love you back fiercely. I can't recommend this book enough!
May 26, 2023
After learning a devastating family secret, Hope leaves the only home she’s ever known to try and find her own way in the world and ends up becoming a nanny to bar owner Gabe’s six-year-old daughter, Ruby. As Hope’s feelings for both Gabe and Ruby grow, past secrets prevent her from fully committing to the life she desperately wants while Gabe tries to get past his own unhealed wounds.
Finding Home is one of those books that pulls you in from the get-go. The pages are filled equally with sweetness and spice as well as oodles of conflict to keep the story moving. Ms. Burns delivers a powerfully written, emotion-filled story about two strong-willed yet vulnerable characters who indeed are both needing and deserving of finding home. What a perfect start to this new series!
Finding Home is one of those books that pulls you in from the get-go. The pages are filled equally with sweetness and spice as well as oodles of conflict to keep the story moving. Ms. Burns delivers a powerfully written, emotion-filled story about two strong-willed yet vulnerable characters who indeed are both needing and deserving of finding home. What a perfect start to this new series!
May 22, 2024
Hot bartender- check.
Spicy and heartfelt romance with intriguing secrets, and did I mention the spice? Phew!
Hope and Gabe are fantastic and I can't wait to read more from The Rose City Series.
Spicy and heartfelt romance with intriguing secrets, and did I mention the spice? Phew!
Hope and Gabe are fantastic and I can't wait to read more from The Rose City Series.
March 23, 2024
This book deserves so much more attention than what it has gotten 🥹 It was cute and sweet but still somehow really touching and I read it through in like two sittings 🫶🏼
May 21, 2023
It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel. It was such a beautifully written contemporary romance. Valentina truly has a way with her words and descriptions.
I found myself laughing at the occasional comical analogies, smiling at the heartfelt moments between Hope and 6- year old Ruby, blushing during the very well-done steamy scenes, and getting weepy as Gabe processed through his emotional turmoil.
So much emotion was packed into this story, and I adored the overall theme of discovering that your true home is with the person you love and trust the most.
I highly recommend this story if you love contemporary romance packed with tenderness and passion.
I found myself laughing at the occasional comical analogies, smiling at the heartfelt moments between Hope and 6- year old Ruby, blushing during the very well-done steamy scenes, and getting weepy as Gabe processed through his emotional turmoil.
So much emotion was packed into this story, and I adored the overall theme of discovering that your true home is with the person you love and trust the most.
I highly recommend this story if you love contemporary romance packed with tenderness and passion.
July 24, 2023
Don’t get me wrong. It’s not a bad book. I think I just wasn’t that invested at the moment.
July 3, 2023
i hate with they lie oh the H is Grumpy! and we go running to read it .
i mean from the fist encounter between them he was nice and gentlemen to her
i mean from the fist encounter between them he was nice and gentlemen to her
September 1, 2023
It’s not often that I start reading a book and immediately know I’m going to love it but this one sucked me in from the very beginning and I knew without a doubt it would be a 5 star read. I fell in love with these characters and their story and it had just the right amount of romance, angst and steam. Can’t wait to read the next one!
June 12, 2023
Finding Home is a sweet and steamy, grumpy sunshine, nanny/boss romance. Valentina Burns’ debut is an enjoyable read that’s a perfect poolside book for the summer.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Hope moved to Portland to establish her independence after a falling out with her family. Landlord and bar owner Gabe and his six year old daughter Ruby live across the hall from Hope and her bestie Ivy. After job hunting without success, Hope helps Gabe out and becomes Ruby’s trusted babysitter. But with Gabe as her boss, how on earth will they deal with their intensifying attraction to each other?
Both Hope and Gabe have a lot of baggage to work through, and as a result put off tons of mixed signals to each other. Their instant mutual attraction is apparent before she starts working for him as nanny to his daughter, and their feelings are clearly mutual. So while she’s technically working for him, the power imbalance doesn’t feel like a huge obstacle for them. They are both people whose pasts color their current lives, and that’s a bigger struggle for them. And in addition to some great steamy scenes, I really enjoyed the Portland setting.
If you are a fan of an insta love, nanny/boss romance with some steamy chemistry, you’ll enjoy Finding Home. Valentina Burns’ debut has all the elements readers look for in a romance novel, and is well suited to keep you company in a beach chair.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Hope moved to Portland to establish her independence after a falling out with her family. Landlord and bar owner Gabe and his six year old daughter Ruby live across the hall from Hope and her bestie Ivy. After job hunting without success, Hope helps Gabe out and becomes Ruby’s trusted babysitter. But with Gabe as her boss, how on earth will they deal with their intensifying attraction to each other?
Both Hope and Gabe have a lot of baggage to work through, and as a result put off tons of mixed signals to each other. Their instant mutual attraction is apparent before she starts working for him as nanny to his daughter, and their feelings are clearly mutual. So while she’s technically working for him, the power imbalance doesn’t feel like a huge obstacle for them. They are both people whose pasts color their current lives, and that’s a bigger struggle for them. And in addition to some great steamy scenes, I really enjoyed the Portland setting.
If you are a fan of an insta love, nanny/boss romance with some steamy chemistry, you’ll enjoy Finding Home. Valentina Burns’ debut has all the elements readers look for in a romance novel, and is well suited to keep you company in a beach chair.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 27, 2023
3 estrellas (⭐️⭐️⭐️). Esta es una lectura linda que te abraza el corazón.
Finding home es un libro que nos cuenta la historia de Hope Morgan, una chica que se alejó de su mundo de lujos para encontrarse a sí misma. Y de Gabe, un padre soltero que su único deseo es sacar a su hija y su bar adelante. Un día su vidas se cruzan y ahí es donde la magia empieza.
Este libro se me hizo lindo, la verdad me gustó la relación entre Gabe y Hope, y bueno a pesar de que se me hizo todo un poco rápido, eso no me impidió ver la química que tenían ambos personajes.
"You will be mine, and I will be yours."
"Always,"
A mi me hubiese gustado que saliera más Ruby, la hija de Gabe y ver más de sus interacciones con él y con Hope cómo su nanny, pero igual con lo poquito que vimos de ella, pude notar lo querida que era. También me hubiese gustado que no se contradijeran tanto los personajes de un capítulo a otro, pero creo que eso también solemos hacer como seres humanos.
Conclusión: Finding home me ayudó a salir de un bloqueo lector, creo que es una lectura bonita si quieres algo con el trope de: single dad. Siento que para ser la primera novela de la autora, está súper bien ♡.
Finding home es un libro que nos cuenta la historia de Hope Morgan, una chica que se alejó de su mundo de lujos para encontrarse a sí misma. Y de Gabe, un padre soltero que su único deseo es sacar a su hija y su bar adelante. Un día su vidas se cruzan y ahí es donde la magia empieza.
Este libro se me hizo lindo, la verdad me gustó la relación entre Gabe y Hope, y bueno a pesar de que se me hizo todo un poco rápido, eso no me impidió ver la química que tenían ambos personajes.
"You will be mine, and I will be yours."
"Always,"
A mi me hubiese gustado que saliera más Ruby, la hija de Gabe y ver más de sus interacciones con él y con Hope cómo su nanny, pero igual con lo poquito que vimos de ella, pude notar lo querida que era. También me hubiese gustado que no se contradijeran tanto los personajes de un capítulo a otro, pero creo que eso también solemos hacer como seres humanos.
Conclusión: Finding home me ayudó a salir de un bloqueo lector, creo que es una lectura bonita si quieres algo con el trope de: single dad. Siento que para ser la primera novela de la autora, está súper bien ♡.
August 14, 2023
Valentina Burns wrote at the end of « Finding Home » that every time you read a positive review from a reader, it fills up your whole bucket. Well I hope the following will contribute to it.
This is the author’s debut novel and I say confidently not the last with that kind of talent. I am always extremely honest when I write reviews and let me get straight to the point: I adored this book.
There was no down time where I started getting bored and just wanted to get to the end, I read it continuously all day without feeling the need to stop. It’s also very rare to see a single dad in a book, it’s always usually a single mum which was quite a breath of fresh air.
You will adore Hope’s personality from the beginning, with her tenacity to get things done by herself even coming from a wealthy background. Don’t get me started on Gabe, at first I was like “no please don’t give me a cliché” well, author Valentina Burns did not in fact, give me a cliché.
You will get attached to Gabe and certain little someone… Really. We also get unexpected plot twists which were most welcomed as it added to the story. I loved it and I look forward to read the story of Ivy & Sean in “Finding Freedom”, coming fall 2023.
This is the author’s debut novel and I say confidently not the last with that kind of talent. I am always extremely honest when I write reviews and let me get straight to the point: I adored this book.
There was no down time where I started getting bored and just wanted to get to the end, I read it continuously all day without feeling the need to stop. It’s also very rare to see a single dad in a book, it’s always usually a single mum which was quite a breath of fresh air.
You will adore Hope’s personality from the beginning, with her tenacity to get things done by herself even coming from a wealthy background. Don’t get me started on Gabe, at first I was like “no please don’t give me a cliché” well, author Valentina Burns did not in fact, give me a cliché.
You will get attached to Gabe and certain little someone… Really. We also get unexpected plot twists which were most welcomed as it added to the story. I loved it and I look forward to read the story of Ivy & Sean in “Finding Freedom”, coming fall 2023.
May 29, 2023
A heartfelt contemporary romance that will keep you engaged and eager to read from beginning to end. This was an incredible debut from author Valentines Burns and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
What I loved about this book:
-The author created a connection between the reader and the main characters. Gabe and Hope are relatable. The secrets from their past kept me engaged and wanting to read on.
-There was an easy flow to the book. I never felt bored or disinterested. I was looking forward to picking up this book each day.
- Single dad/ Nanny trope
-I enjoyed the relationship between Hope and Gabe's daughter Ruby.
-The secondary characters added to the story. I felt connected to them and look forward to reading their stories in the future.
-Lots of SPICE!!! The perfect amount of spicy scenes in my opinion.
Read this if you enjoy:
-Single dad/Nanny
-Secrets about the characters past
-Lots of spice!
-Relatable characters
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more books in the series. I’m hoping the next book is about the character Ivy 🤞🏼
What I loved about this book:
-The author created a connection between the reader and the main characters. Gabe and Hope are relatable. The secrets from their past kept me engaged and wanting to read on.
-There was an easy flow to the book. I never felt bored or disinterested. I was looking forward to picking up this book each day.
- Single dad/ Nanny trope
-I enjoyed the relationship between Hope and Gabe's daughter Ruby.
-The secondary characters added to the story. I felt connected to them and look forward to reading their stories in the future.
-Lots of SPICE!!! The perfect amount of spicy scenes in my opinion.
Read this if you enjoy:
-Single dad/Nanny
-Secrets about the characters past
-Lots of spice!
-Relatable characters
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more books in the series. I’m hoping the next book is about the character Ivy 🤞🏼
June 17, 2023
How can two total opposites who are both struggling both emotionally and struggling to cope. Gabe is a grumpy single father trying to bring up Ruby after his wife's death. Hope is trying in her own way trying to build a life of her own on her own terms. Whilst carrying secrets from her life before Portland she meets Gabe, both try to ignore how they feel for each other. Can two very broken people work through their own insecurities or will they both be stubborn and runaway to try and avoid heartache. I have never read any of Valentina's books before. She has a unique way of capturing and dealing carefully with some very difficult matters in heartfelt way. I throughly related to all the characters and found myself rooting for a happy outcome. Although I normally read squeaky clean books the steamy parts of the book helped build the story. I will certainly be looking for more of Valentina's book. I recieved this book as an ARC copy and this is my honest and truthful opinion and review I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2024
I love finding new Indie Authors, and this book did not disappoint. You know when you've finished the first two chapters of a new book, and you know it will be good? I saved it for the weekend because I knew I'd devour it in one sitting. I did - I read the entire book in one afternoon (ok, maybe I was up till past midnight finishing this one), but I couldn't put it down.
✌️What I loved about this book:
🩵I loved that there was instant attraction from both sides and that SHE was the cautious one, and he seemed ready to jump all in.
🩵Gabe was so connected emotionally in a tormented, tortured way, but I loved that about his character.
🩵I also loved that the spice heated up quickly; I felt there was enough to tease you into reading more… no slow burn here.
🩵I loved how she weaved meaningful and intricate storylines about the MMC, FMC, and other characters throughout the book.
🩵The author did an excellent character-building job; I'm already invested in Ivy and Sean's story.
I LOVED the story and the characters, which made my Sunday afternoon by the pool much more enjoyable. (the tired eyes the next day were worth it) I can't wait for book number 2!
✌️What I loved about this book:
🩵I loved that there was instant attraction from both sides and that SHE was the cautious one, and he seemed ready to jump all in.
🩵Gabe was so connected emotionally in a tormented, tortured way, but I loved that about his character.
🩵I also loved that the spice heated up quickly; I felt there was enough to tease you into reading more… no slow burn here.
🩵I loved how she weaved meaningful and intricate storylines about the MMC, FMC, and other characters throughout the book.
🩵The author did an excellent character-building job; I'm already invested in Ivy and Sean's story.
I LOVED the story and the characters, which made my Sunday afternoon by the pool much more enjoyable. (the tired eyes the next day were worth it) I can't wait for book number 2!
January 15, 2024
Wow. Easily a 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read!!!
I have to preface by saying this is my first time reading a full-blown romance novel. I didn’t really know what to expect going into it, other than copious amounts of spicy scenes. So I just went into it with an open mind. I was not disappointed.
Almost instantly, I loved this book. The first thing that got me was the humor sprinkled all throughout at the beginning. I had a good chuckle here and there. But what really got me about this book was the very real feeling characters. Nothing in this book was far-fetched or over the top. The characters were real and had real actions and reactions to things. In fact, I almost feel as if I’ve never read a book where the characters felt so much like real people.
It was hard not to love this wonderful ensemble cast. All friends, all ride or die, so to speak. This cast love each other so whole heartedly and I found it so refreshing. Anyway, it’s hard to believe that this is Valentina’s debut. It was written so well. She’s really a wonderful writer! These characters have all the pieces, the story has every feeling, and the book as a whole was truly so good. I will definitely be back for more!!
I have to preface by saying this is my first time reading a full-blown romance novel. I didn’t really know what to expect going into it, other than copious amounts of spicy scenes. So I just went into it with an open mind. I was not disappointed.
Almost instantly, I loved this book. The first thing that got me was the humor sprinkled all throughout at the beginning. I had a good chuckle here and there. But what really got me about this book was the very real feeling characters. Nothing in this book was far-fetched or over the top. The characters were real and had real actions and reactions to things. In fact, I almost feel as if I’ve never read a book where the characters felt so much like real people.
It was hard not to love this wonderful ensemble cast. All friends, all ride or die, so to speak. This cast love each other so whole heartedly and I found it so refreshing. Anyway, it’s hard to believe that this is Valentina’s debut. It was written so well. She’s really a wonderful writer! These characters have all the pieces, the story has every feeling, and the book as a whole was truly so good. I will definitely be back for more!!
June 21, 2023
Quick Breakdown:
Neighbors
Landlord / Tenant
Single Dad
Boss / Nanny
Insta Lust / Love
Low Angst
Found Family
Dual POV
Open Door - Mild to Moderate Detail
Hope, who was raised in a privileged home, leaves her job at the family company determined to strike out on her own after learning a shocking family secret. She moves in with her best friend & college roommate Ivy up in Portland. There she meets Gabe, her next door neighbor & new landlord. He initially believes her to be a shallow rich girl, but quickly learns there is much more to her than meets the eye.
I am thoroughly impressed with Valentina. I mean, what a great debut! Valentina is a fellow bookstagrammer & it was a honor to read her first book. Just look at those tropes & that cover 🙌🏻
This one was full of heart & great chemistry. There was a fantastic cast supporting characters, too. Ruby, Gabe’s daughter, brought all the tender moments I crave. Hope’s best friend Ivy might have stole the show, though. She brought the humor & support that I love. I can’t wait to see her fight her demons for her own HEA.
Neighbors
Landlord / Tenant
Single Dad
Boss / Nanny
Insta Lust / Love
Low Angst
Found Family
Dual POV
Open Door - Mild to Moderate Detail
Hope, who was raised in a privileged home, leaves her job at the family company determined to strike out on her own after learning a shocking family secret. She moves in with her best friend & college roommate Ivy up in Portland. There she meets Gabe, her next door neighbor & new landlord. He initially believes her to be a shallow rich girl, but quickly learns there is much more to her than meets the eye.
I am thoroughly impressed with Valentina. I mean, what a great debut! Valentina is a fellow bookstagrammer & it was a honor to read her first book. Just look at those tropes & that cover 🙌🏻
This one was full of heart & great chemistry. There was a fantastic cast supporting characters, too. Ruby, Gabe’s daughter, brought all the tender moments I crave. Hope’s best friend Ivy might have stole the show, though. She brought the humor & support that I love. I can’t wait to see her fight her demons for her own HEA.
August 3, 2023
My Rating⭐⭐⭐.75
Tropes/Themes: Single Dad, Age Gap, Insta Lust, Opposites Attract
Amount of spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was very sweet and a little emotional. Honestly, I enjoyed the romance but what I enjoyed more were the friendships. I love a good fictional friend group and this one was so lovely. There was loads of good tension and it was incredibly sexy even if it was a little too much insta love for me.
The reason it lost a couple of stars was because it was sold as a grumpy sunshine romance which it definitely was not - Gabe spent approximately one minute being grumpy and the rest of the time hopelessly in love with Hope. It was also far too drawn out and overly dramatic in some instances. I was so confused that after being together officially
I didn’t love this one but I enjoyed the supporting characters so much that I would pick up the next book. I’m looking forward to Ivy and Sean’s story.
Tropes/Themes: Single Dad, Age Gap, Insta Lust, Opposites Attract
Amount of spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was very sweet and a little emotional. Honestly, I enjoyed the romance but what I enjoyed more were the friendships. I love a good fictional friend group and this one was so lovely. There was loads of good tension and it was incredibly sexy even if it was a little too much insta love for me.
The reason it lost a couple of stars was because it was sold as a grumpy sunshine romance which it definitely was not - Gabe spent approximately one minute being grumpy and the rest of the time hopelessly in love with Hope. It was also far too drawn out and overly dramatic in some instances. I was so confused that after being together officially
I didn’t love this one but I enjoyed the supporting characters so much that I would pick up the next book. I’m looking forward to Ivy and Sean’s story.
October 3, 2023
I absolutely tore through this book. It was so heart wrenching as I read it. Truly devastating in moments, that the uplifted you and sewed your heart back together.
Hope unexpectedly begins to nanny her neighbor's child for him, his daughter Ruby. The relationship that Hope and Ruby grow together as she takes care of her is just so incredibly sweet. The unquestioning love that Hope has for this child she is watching, in addition to the fact that Ruby's dad, Gabe, gets to watch the girls growing fondness of each other is just so, so good.
Speaking of Gabe... he was perfect and sweet. I adored the connection that him and Hope shared, how he cared for her deeply and was trying to understand and accept those feelings.
Let me tell you guys, the final 5% of this book had me crying. The conversation between all of the characters (I won't name names) just oh my goodness. If you need a book to falling love with, a group of characters where they feel like home, you have found it here.
Hope unexpectedly begins to nanny her neighbor's child for him, his daughter Ruby. The relationship that Hope and Ruby grow together as she takes care of her is just so incredibly sweet. The unquestioning love that Hope has for this child she is watching, in addition to the fact that Ruby's dad, Gabe, gets to watch the girls growing fondness of each other is just so, so good.
Speaking of Gabe... he was perfect and sweet. I adored the connection that him and Hope shared, how he cared for her deeply and was trying to understand and accept those feelings.
Let me tell you guys, the final 5% of this book had me crying. The conversation between all of the characters (I won't name names) just oh my goodness. If you need a book to falling love with, a group of characters where they feel like home, you have found it here.
July 10, 2023
Hope and Gabe's New Beginning . . .
Hope Morgan was the daughter of a wealthy family and had everything she could ever want. But finding out that she was adopted shook her up and she walks away from her life with them to start over on her own. Starting out with nothing, she is worried she will be taking advantage of her best friend’s kindness in letting her stay in her apartment above a bar.
Gabe Walsh owns the bar and makes assumptions about the “rich girl”. But again and again, she proves him wrong and he starts to respect her determination to work hard and earn her own way. When Gabe needs a nanny for his 6-year-old daughter, Ruby, will Hope accept the job? Will this be a good way to get to know each other better? Could this actually turn into a relationship that could evolve into the 3 of them becoming a family? Or will their insecurities from the past make that impossible?
Hope Morgan was the daughter of a wealthy family and had everything she could ever want. But finding out that she was adopted shook her up and she walks away from her life with them to start over on her own. Starting out with nothing, she is worried she will be taking advantage of her best friend’s kindness in letting her stay in her apartment above a bar.
Gabe Walsh owns the bar and makes assumptions about the “rich girl”. But again and again, she proves him wrong and he starts to respect her determination to work hard and earn her own way. When Gabe needs a nanny for his 6-year-old daughter, Ruby, will Hope accept the job? Will this be a good way to get to know each other better? Could this actually turn into a relationship that could evolve into the 3 of them becoming a family? Or will their insecurities from the past make that impossible?
March 27, 2024
Finding Home by @valentinaburnswrites is such a beautiful read. I definitely didn’t cry more than once 🤥
Hope has moved to Portland to distance herself from her family (this will be explained why) and she lives with her best friend, Ivy (cannot wait to start her book). After locking herself out of the apartment, she meets her landlord, and bar owner, Gabe 🫠🥵, who happens to be this sexy as hell single dad (tragically). Hope is harbouring a secret and Gabe has major trust issues but one thing for certain, is that they can’t deny their chemistry as Hope becomes Ruby’s nanny.
This was honestly just lovely and a tear jerker. There are some serious incidents which occur so check the TW’s but I felt like Valentina wrote these with heart and soul, which made this book wholesome. I also loved Hope-she is the friend you want; the woman will have your back.
Gabe is hot and I wouldn’t mind a piece of him, if one is honest. Together, they are pretty special.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Hope has moved to Portland to distance herself from her family (this will be explained why) and she lives with her best friend, Ivy (cannot wait to start her book). After locking herself out of the apartment, she meets her landlord, and bar owner, Gabe 🫠🥵, who happens to be this sexy as hell single dad (tragically). Hope is harbouring a secret and Gabe has major trust issues but one thing for certain, is that they can’t deny their chemistry as Hope becomes Ruby’s nanny.
This was honestly just lovely and a tear jerker. There are some serious incidents which occur so check the TW’s but I felt like Valentina wrote these with heart and soul, which made this book wholesome. I also loved Hope-she is the friend you want; the woman will have your back.
Gabe is hot and I wouldn’t mind a piece of him, if one is honest. Together, they are pretty special.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
August 2, 2023
First book I have read by this author. First book in the Rose City series as well.
I loved this book! So many different things happening. Things you don’t find out about until closer to the end. You learn things along the way with the MMC as the story goes on.
Hope moved to Portland to find herself. To get away from the big secret she heard at 16 and then just recently learned it was the truth.
Gabe is running a bar and trying to take care of his 6-year-old daughter. He’s so protective of her that no one really knows she exists and it takes a while for Gabe to trust anyone with her…until she walks into the bar and almost catches Gabe and Hope kissing. Soon Hope is her nanny and she’s slowly falling in love with Ruby and her father.
This story was a tearjerker but also hopeful and loving. A found family story.
I’m ready for Ivy to get her happy ending now!
I loved this book! So many different things happening. Things you don’t find out about until closer to the end. You learn things along the way with the MMC as the story goes on.
Hope moved to Portland to find herself. To get away from the big secret she heard at 16 and then just recently learned it was the truth.
Gabe is running a bar and trying to take care of his 6-year-old daughter. He’s so protective of her that no one really knows she exists and it takes a while for Gabe to trust anyone with her…until she walks into the bar and almost catches Gabe and Hope kissing. Soon Hope is her nanny and she’s slowly falling in love with Ruby and her father.
This story was a tearjerker but also hopeful and loving. A found family story.
I’m ready for Ivy to get her happy ending now!
October 12, 2024
Hope and Gabe. I fell in love with them instantly, the moment their eyes met, I knew it was going to be intense. I hated that I couldn’t sit and devour this book in one go.
I loved how they both had things to overcome, and Ruby helping Hope see the light with some of her own demons, through her young innocent eyes and mind. My heart broke with Ruby’s drawing and the talks between Ruby and Hope and Hope and Gabe,about his wife. I love how he let her in.
Gabe and Hope’s sexual tension in this book was at an all time high, and I was so happy when they finally let go! This book is everything, emotional, heart wrenching, steamy, lovable.
I couldn’t wait to fully find out this extra secret hanging over Hope and Ivy, it broke my heart to find out what did happen. I can’t wait to read Ivy’s story next.
I loved how they both had things to overcome, and Ruby helping Hope see the light with some of her own demons, through her young innocent eyes and mind. My heart broke with Ruby’s drawing and the talks between Ruby and Hope and Hope and Gabe,about his wife. I love how he let her in.
Gabe and Hope’s sexual tension in this book was at an all time high, and I was so happy when they finally let go! This book is everything, emotional, heart wrenching, steamy, lovable.
I couldn’t wait to fully find out this extra secret hanging over Hope and Ivy, it broke my heart to find out what did happen. I can’t wait to read Ivy’s story next.
July 26, 2023
Actual rating: 3.5 stars.
Classic grumpy meets sunshine trope. You can never go wrong with it. This one with a kid thrown into the mix and some huge secret holding the FMC, Hope, back. This was a healthy relationship and some hefty life lessons about family. I really liked the main female lead's character here. She was insecure, brash, funny, compassionate and all around sure of what she wants. She is portrayed very real and I liked that. I did think there were many allusions to her friend which makes sense as it sets up for the sequel. However, I did think there were too many mentions which was not bad per se but just weird because I get sucked into the main story and suddenly the friend takes too much of a centre stage.
Classic grumpy meets sunshine trope. You can never go wrong with it. This one with a kid thrown into the mix and some huge secret holding the FMC, Hope, back. This was a healthy relationship and some hefty life lessons about family. I really liked the main female lead's character here. She was insecure, brash, funny, compassionate and all around sure of what she wants. She is portrayed very real and I liked that. I did think there were many allusions to her friend which makes sense as it sets up for the sequel. However, I did think there were too many mentions which was not bad per se but just weird because I get sucked into the main story and suddenly the friend takes too much of a centre stage.
March 3, 2024
Sweet, spicy, poignant and moving!
This is a beautifully written romance about two people afraid to love again.
Hope is a smart, determined woman who's come to Portland to escape her family. She doesn't expect to immediately connect with her sexy landlord who owns the bar below her apartment, but the attraction is too strong to fight!
Gabe is the perfect grumpy, silent hero. He's focused on making sure his bar is a success, and doing everything he can to keep his young daughter safe. When he meets Hope, he can't get her out of his head, but he doesn't want to risk getting his heart broken again.
Their story will make you cry and laugh and want to read more! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
This is a beautifully written romance about two people afraid to love again.
Hope is a smart, determined woman who's come to Portland to escape her family. She doesn't expect to immediately connect with her sexy landlord who owns the bar below her apartment, but the attraction is too strong to fight!
Gabe is the perfect grumpy, silent hero. He's focused on making sure his bar is a success, and doing everything he can to keep his young daughter safe. When he meets Hope, he can't get her out of his head, but he doesn't want to risk getting his heart broken again.
Their story will make you cry and laugh and want to read more! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
May 26, 2024
Hope Morgan sets off for Portland Oregon to find herself. She meets Gabe Walsh through her good friend Ivy who is in Book 2 with her story. Gabe needs a nanny and Hope happens to need a job as she lost the first one after a few months.
The tension and sparks that start to shoot from all around them both are 🔥. Hope genuinely starts to worry about Gabe's daughter who is becoming attached where Hope is skittish about commitment to Gabe and his daughter since he's been over protective for so long after losing his wife.
These two were definitely a nice paced read as you fall for both Hope and Gabe. You as the reader are rooting for their eventual HEA.
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
*As always, read blurb and trigger warnings before starting ⚠
The tension and sparks that start to shoot from all around them both are 🔥. Hope genuinely starts to worry about Gabe's daughter who is becoming attached where Hope is skittish about commitment to Gabe and his daughter since he's been over protective for so long after losing his wife.
These two were definitely a nice paced read as you fall for both Hope and Gabe. You as the reader are rooting for their eventual HEA.
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
*As always, read blurb and trigger warnings before starting ⚠
July 27, 2023
My heart 🥺🥺🥺 I am obsessed with single parent trope but man is it sort of hard to find it. Being able to see the pain that both Gabe and Hope were going through was hard because I wanted to just go through the screen and hug them :( these two didn't deserve all the negative that was thrown in their life. Gabe and Ruby needed Hope the same way she needed them. I wish we could've seen a mini Hope or mini Gabe roaming around but who knows 👀👀 But oh man let me just say that the chemistry between Ivy and Sean is just 😩😩.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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