A Very Merry Nanny: A Single Dad, Age Gap, Small Town Romance

Very Merry #2

by Lyra Parish

He's a grumpy, single-dad lumberjack, and this Christmas I want to be the ginger in his bread…

Hudson Jolly is, ironically, the biggest Scrooge in Merryville, but I'm not intimidated.
He warns me to stay away from him. However, I'm convinced he's playing reindeer games.

When I learn he's searching for a nanny, I offer to help.
Out of desperation, he hires me.
That's his first mistake.

The attraction is undeniable and after too much spiked eggnog, lines are quickly crossed. I jingle his bells, and Hudson becomes my ho ho ho, but—because there's always a but with broody men like him—only for the season.

Now I'm wishing for a holiday miracle because the Grinch stole my heart or did I steal his?

A Very Merry Nanny is a small-town single-dad holiday romance with rom-com vibes. If you're searching for a grumpy/sunshine romance set in a Southern small town, then this book is for you! Each book in the Very Merry series can be read as a standalone. Each ends with a sweet as gingerbread happily ever after.

Genres: Christmas, Holiday, Romance, Rom Com, Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Contemporary

428 pages, Paperback

First published November 21, 2024

About the author

Lyra Parish is a hopeless romantic obsessed with writing spicy Hallmark-like romances. When she isn’t immersed in fictional worlds, you can find her pretending to be a Vanlifer with her hubby. Lyra loves coffee, the great outdoors, authentic people, and living her best life.

To learn more, please subscribe to Lyra's newsletter: https://bit.ly/lyraparishnewsletter

Reviews

[Jen ♥]

On hold @ 34%


I'm not in the mood to read about a 39-year-old grown-ass man playing the hot and cold game as if his life depends on it. And I'm not in the mood to endure how pathetic it is for a 30-year-old grown-ass woman to chase after said grown-ass man when she knows and said herself the guy is emotionally unavailable. 🤧

I just don't understand her drive (or desperation) to get to know this man who, by far, up until this point, rejected her time and time again. I can only tolerate so much, and I'm not having any of it at the moment. 😒

I'm going to pick this up again for sure, but I need to calm down because I'm f*cking pissed as hell. 

[Emily B · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I get engaged after 2 months lock me up in the looney bin

[Natasha Niezgoda · Rating 1 out of 5]

So beyond cringe!

[Martina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4+⭐

Loved this!!! 💖
Single dads always get to me 🥹 he's so special. The grump that deep down is not so grumpy after all (behind closed doors, with his woman and child).

I'm afraid they'll grow a football team in the background of book 3 😆

I now need to go straight to my last Jolly brother: Lucas 🫶🏼

[Thorunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

All hail the Queen of Fall who has now OFFICIALLY become the Queen of the Xmas Rom-com! Lyra, Lyra, Lyra - what are you doing to me? Because this book, this book right here... giiiiiiirl, I don't know how I'll survive the holidays knowing that this type of "thing" - love, smex, chemistry, connection, what-have-you - exists out in the world! Every other holiday experience is just mundane in comparison to the holiday saga of Hudson and Emma. *sigh* Reality really bites sometimes.

This is book #2 in the Very Merry series and in this book we've got Jake's brother Hudson Jolly who's a single dad, grumpy, smart, hardworking, loyal, and a dirty-daddy-talker. Mindy, I will in fact fight you tooth and nail for him, because Hudson is mm-mmm-mmmmm good! Without getting into the nitty gritty, delicious details, this book is just so darn amazing! Lyra has really come into her own these past few books and she's just taken us and the world by storm. This book and her last book "Fall for Us" have literally blown my socks off and these characters and these worlds that she's crafted for my personal reading pleasure (and yes, it's for MY personal reading pleasure!) ... words can't begin to describe. These stories just flow so effortlessly, they are beautiful, witty, smart, hilarious, sultry and ohhhh-sooo smexy. And for me, the little details that Lyra builds into her stories, the little twists and turns that are often so subtle yet make all the difference... she just creates something so special.

As mentioned, Hudson is a single, grumpy dad. His life is all about his son and family and we respect him for it. Enter Emma, who's Hudson's future sister in law's younger sister and she's the millionaire who is so grounded and a beautiful person. This is the second time they meet and what ensues is a whirlwind story between them - a story of letting go, letting people in, trusting others to catch you when you fall, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable and to let love lead the way. It is just incredible and so beautiful. I can't recommend this story enough, and you should just get on the Lyra Parish Holiday Express Train because the trip to Merryville can't be beat. In fact, you might find yourself slightly depressed when it's over and, like me, realize that my holiday won't be filled with 10 xmas trees in my house, sipping Mawmaw's special eggnog with this hot-as-sin man whispering dirty somethings in your ear while using his tongue to.... he-hemm. I digress. Jump on up and purchase your ticket for the Lyra Parish Holiday Express and get into the holiday spirit!

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the start, I was a little weary about reading an almost 400-page Holiday Romance, but I enjoyed every bit of it. Usually, the holiday romances I read are shorter by about 100 or more pages, so you can understand my apprehension. I was THRILLED when it didn't lag or become repetitive and had me craving more.

Emma Manchester is headed to Merryville to visit her sister for the holidays. As you would expect with the name Merryville, the town and its residents take Christmas very seriously, but they have a Scrooge in their midst, and his name is Hudson Jolly. Hudson has an adorable son, Colby, who steals every page he is on. That little boy will have you laughing or tearing up with just a few simple words.

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewAVMN



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links

[Kelsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ this was cutesy but chaotic, +.5 point for no third act break up

[danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

i will always and forever love the single dad nanny trope

[Terri Zumbrook · Rating 2 out of 5]

I felt the connection between Hudson and Emma was awkward for much of the story. They both had their issues with relationships, but their words and actions didn’t match up even though they both were supposedly “upfront” in what they wanted. I didn’t get into the story.

[Kim · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

This was not what I was expecting. I didn't like how desperate the h was, nor how mulish the H was.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Lyra Parish for the copy of A Very Merry Nanny!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If it’s written by Lyra you can guarantee it’ll be a 5 star review from me. This is my second book by her and I am blown away yet again by her incredible writing! If you like spice, open door romance, banter, and unforgettable characters please do yourself a favor and read one of her books. You’ll probably end up like me with a new favorite author to add to your list and put her books on auto-buy.

Emma Maneater Manchester has so much sass and brings the banter no matter who she’s talking to. She doesn’t back down from anything and faces every challenge with a winning mentality. Hudson Heartbreaker Jolly has been burned, so he’s a grump who doesn’t let anyone in. Honestly who could blame the man? If I was dealt the cards he was, I wouldn’t let anyone in either. Emma and Hudson are a perfect match for each other and I loved getting to read their story! The Jolly Christmas Tree Farm, the Jolly family housing situation, the close knit family… it’s all wrapped together in such a nice bow; a great gift to us readers!

The relationship between siblings in her books are unmatched. Hudson, Jake, & Lucas have such a great relationship and I absolutely love how much crap they give each other. I have three sons and I hope they grow up to be close like the Jolly brothers. I think it’s safe to assume that the Jolly family will always hold a special place in my heart. I love these characters so much. Mawmaw is my favorite, I love her!! Colby and his sweet innocent crush on Evie (a future book idea with the best friend’s sister trope 😜), but seriously he was so cute throughout the book and a great representation of a 4/5 year old.

I cannot wait for A Very Merry Enemy and to read more about Lucas and his love story. The Jolly family continues and I’m here for it! Something else to look forward to next Holiday season ❤️

[Daisy.readsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞!❄️

❄️ 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
❄️ 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲/𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 
❄️ 𝐬𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 
❄️ 𝐀𝐠𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐩 
❄️ 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐝 🪓𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐣𝐚𝐜𝐤🪓 
❄️ 𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥/𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐲 
❄️ 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 “𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤” 
❄️ 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 

✨Thoughts✨
𝐓𝐡𝐞 single dad trope is one of my favorites, and this book hits all the right notes. The second book in the Very Merry series follows Hudson and Emma. Hudson is a single father looking for a nanny. Emma enters his life when her sister becomes engaged to his brother. Emma quickly bonds with Hudson's son, who responds well to her. Despite their strong connection, Hudson tries to keep his distance due to his past heartache. However, Emma's infectious and vibrant personality starts to break down his emotional barriers.

𝐈 adored Emma. She was a breath of fresh air for Hudson. Her affection toward Colby, Hudson's son, warmed his heart in ways he never imagined. The simmering tension between them eventually reaches a breaking point, leading to some steamy and exciting moments. This book delves deeper into emotions. It was by far one of my favorites by Lyra Parish!

𝐈𝐟 you're a fan of small-town romance with a sprinkle of holiday magic, this book is perfect for you.

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝟒.𝟓⭐️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 𝟑/𝟓🔥

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’ll burn the world down for you and let the fire light our path. Me and you."

🎄❄️🍪🎁🎅🏼🧸🕯️🪵

Omg this is my first Lyra book, and I am OBSESSED with her writing story, and characters!! I truly could not put this book down because I had to see how things ended for Hudson and Emma. Their chemistry and tension was PALPABLE from the beginning. There was never going to be a universe where these two didn’t end up together, but seeing them find their way to it was so much fun. I loved Emma’s relationship with Hudson’s son, Colby. Emma was such a was FMC to love because she was so protective and caring, and truly was everything Hudson needed. Hudson was so swoony, and their spicy scenes had me sweating. These two were so deeply connected, you could feel the love they shared, it was that meeting your souls truest match type of love!!

I loved the fictional town of Merryville, Texas and I really enjoyed the entire cast of characters. (Memaw was my favorite). I’m also so excited to now go and read the other two books for Hudson’s brothers Lucas, and Jake to see their stories.

Absolutely add this one to your Christmas TBR, you will fall in love with these characters and this town!!

[ashlin.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want an angst filled, yet cozy holiday story here you go! I was on the edge of my seat anticipating each next thing between Hudson and Emma. He's the ultimate grump after his love life takes a horrible turn leaving him a single dad. Emma is a ray of sunshine on the outside but deep down she's just searching for a real kind of love and wants to find her way in the world.

I was hooked from the start with this one. The Christmas setting of this town is just perfection as it was in the first book. I ADORED how Emma was with Colby and how much he loved her. She was so fiercely protective of them even not knowing if Hudson was going to ultimately give in to their chemistry. I was cracking up when she confronts his ex about leaving them alone! All of the side characters added such a fun element to the story. I really enjoyed how Hudson was trying to safe Emma in a sense from being with him but still was slowly giving in to her because he knew deep down she was the one. The tension between those two was off the charts and really kept me hooked.

This is the second in the series but they can all be read as standalones, but I definitely think it adds more fun to the story to read in order.

If you love small town holiday romances, single dad, grumpy lumberjack with a spicy Hallmark vibe then this is a must read!

Thank you so much to Lyra and team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyra Parish’s A Very Merry Nanny is a delightful holiday romance that captures the spirit of the season.

The story follows Hudson, a grumpy yet charming lumberjack, and Emma, a bright and bubbly city girl. Their paths cross once again as Emma returns home for the holidays to spend time with her sister Claire and her fiancee, Hudson's brother Jake. She becomes the unexpected nanny to Hudson’s adorable son, Colby. The dynamic between the three is heartwarming and endearing.

Parish expertly weaves a tale of love, family, and the magic of the holiday season. The chemistry between Hudson and Emma is instant, and their slow-burn romance is both sweet and spicy.

If you’re looking for a feel-good holiday read that’s both heartwarming and steamy, A Very Merry Nanny is the perfect choice. If you're a fan of cozy holiday romances with a little extra spice, you need to add this to your TBR list. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Thank you Lyra Parish for an ARC of this book. I voluntarily read it and gave an honest review.

[kiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 jolly stars 🍪🎄❄️

this was such a cute holiday read, perfect for the season! a very merry mistake is one of my favorite holiday romance books, so i was so excited to read hudson and emma's story in a very merry nanny!

i love the grumpy single dad trope & hudson did not disappoint! i loved the banter and angst between him and emma 🔥 i loved how we got to see little bits of JJ and Claire too 🥹 (and tinsel!! my fave grumpy cat 🐱)

i also loved how protective emma became over hudson & his son, colby. the scene between her and Meredith was everything

i loved the epilogue and felt like they got the sweetest HEA 🥹 i can't wait for the next jolly brother's story!!!

thanks to the author for the eARC 🤍 out now, also on KU!!!

TROPES:
❄️ grumpy x sunshine
🍪 single dad
🎄 small town holiday romance
🔥 spicy hallmark vibes

[Wendy Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book!!


This was the second in a series of three, following the Jolly brothers of Merryville. I loved the first one, but I loved this one even more. It was a really cozy comfort read, with no third act break up (I dont love a third act break up), and no miscommunication or frustrating tropes.

I’m moving onto the third book now

[Lori ◡̈]

No rating, DNF at 9%. Blurb sounded like it would be cute for me, but from page 1, I could tell I didn’t care for the heroine.

I felt lost, not knowing who all the characters were, were they celebrities? It read as if they were, but no explanation. NYC socialites with private jets and paparazzi following them… So I’m not sure I would call this a standalone.

I hated Book 1 in this series for the extremely bitchy heroine, and this heroine was a tad different herself. A bit in your face, brash. She’s sworn off all men unless they fit specific criteria and dating rules she has. This might be a cute story, give it a try. I just think this author isn’t for me.

[Kristine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I absolutely adored A Very Merry Mistake which was the holiday romance Lyra Parish published last year. My expectations were very high this year as I was expecting this book to be just as good.
A Very Merry Nanny is the second in the series and is about Claire’s sister Emma, and Jake’s brother Hudson. The tropes are:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Lumberjack x Celebrity
- Nanny x Single dad
- Forced Proximity
- Small town of Merryville
- Age Gap

With these tropes the book sounded perfect to me. Unfortunately, I didn’t personally enjoy the plot as much. It felt a bit messy with everything going on and the back and forth. I didn’t really get an in depth understanding of the characters which made it difficult to connect with them. I also felt like we didn’t get the “good stuff” usually connected with these tropes. The single dad part was great though.

Overall, it was an okay reading experience but I much prefer and recommend book one in the series.

[Ashlee DeGraaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly it’s a 5 because there was no final act breakup but plenty of drama and conflict.

[Aly · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

After reading book one, I was so excited for book two! It didn’t disappoint. Single dad lumber Jack, meets city girl coming to small town for the holidays. These two have so much push and pull and I loved the “lists” they have for not falling. Which was bound to fail. I got to re connect with all the characters form book one, and see a little more into this charming small town with more characters. This could be read as a stand alone as well! This one is a little bit more of a slower burn then book one but is WORTH IT! Of course this also hits all the festive fun with a cookie contest and has all the best swoony family moments.

“You’re so good at shutting it down, but I know better. I’ve almost got you figured out, Hudson Jolly.”
“Unravel me,”

Thank you Lyra for this advanced copy!

[Dawn E. · Rating 2 out of 5]

cute characters, confusing conflict

The love story was palpable between Hudson & Emma, but their tension and conflict seemed to come and go, and it was so confusing!

[Natalyastyles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much Author Lyra Parish, for granting me the awesome opportunity to read an ARC of your new upcoming holiday Novel-
“A Very Merry Nanny”
The second installment in “The Very Merry book series”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 star read!!!! I was instantly drawn in!!!!
This book had me captivated from just a few chapters in. I absolutely adored and cherished every moment that was in this book. Filled with witty banter, poignant love, and heartfelt laughter between
the two main characters♥️✨
Beautifully crafted by Lyra Parish.
This book whisks you away on a thrilling adventure of limitless possibilities, sizzling tension, profound connections, and pure happiness. It's an incredible ride of excitement every way you look and especially with captivating chemistry, expertly woven by the Author creativity you would wish tale never had to end🥹💗🎄
Lyra Parish begins her lovely tale through the lives of (Emma Manchester & Hudson Jolly)
Hudson Jolly, is Merryville's resident Scrooge and happens to be a single-dad lumberjack as most love to call him✨ but things start to change when Hudson, is met with Emma, This Christmas, she’s on a mission to be the ginger in Hudson’s bread! Despite his grumpy demeanor, she see past the acade and discover a heartthrob. And that’s when the lovely Lyra Parish, hits us with an exciting plot twist! When Hudson is in needs of a new nanny. Emma seizes the opportunity🤩 After a few cups of spiked eggnog, their chemistry ignites! Hudson starts to become Emma’s holiday treat, but only for the season... or so he thinks. Emma starts to backtrack and begins if their whirlwind romance will yield a holiday miracle? But there’s only one way to found out and that is by reading A Very Merry Nanny ASAP!!! But for a quick peek of how skillfully the author passionately writes about her beautiful characters you will fall into love with them❤️
Emma's character shines with love proudly & beautifully especially with kindness and a compassionate humor and a beautiful spirit throughout each page, demonstrating the Author's impressive writing skills that I highly admire!! Emma, expresses her love for Hudson, in a heartwarming and touching manner with cinnamon roll sweet moments sharing endless laughter and joy through their banters of love and with Hudson's son, she embodies strength, emotional connection, warmth and love, adding depth to her city-girl character that you can’t forget a amazing character like her🩷🌸
Hudson's grumpy exterior hides a charming golden retriever personality that instantly draws Emma in, and his looks don't hurt either, especially with Hudson's heartwarming humor and love he will grasp your emotions, demonstrating how unexpected paths can lead to stunning destinations. Alongside Hudson's devotion to his son is deeply heartfelt and poignant, consistently prioritizing his son's needs🥹♥️ offering steady support and protection, intensely warming your heart. His ardent love for Emma is exhilaratingly captivating, commanding admiration and affection! Even his protectionism over his lover makes him even more attractive and adorning making Hudson, a flawless book boyfriend! To all🩷✨

“I'll burn the world down for you and let the fire light our path. Me and you.” Hudson Jolly💋✨

Order!!!!
“A VERY MERRY NANNY” ✨🎄⭐️💋♥️
For a lovely Christmas filled novel of love and hallmark feels and enjoy characters✨🎄and you can do just that by visiting the author’s social media @lyraparish on IG and also get the chance to view her previous work in
The Very Marry Series.
(A Very Merry mistake) and enjoy that lovely book as well and even get the chance to see how every character first came about🤩🤩🤩🤩

[anna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was frustrating to read because the MMC was so stubborn and unlikable. His POV was exhausting, and for most of the book, he was still officially married to the wife who had left him five years ago.

Also, this story managed to cram in nearly every romance trope imaginable—big-city-girl and small-town-boy, billionaire character, nanny and single dad, secret dating, second chance, Christmas competition, and a custody battle. It was a lot.

The dialogue was cringy, awkward, and not in a fun way:

“Her eyes scan my body. ‘You enjoy the attention.’
‘Stop projecting,’ I say.
One of her brows raises as she studies me. ‘What did you say earlier? You don’t beg?’
I glance at her. ‘You remembered? How thoughtful.’
I’m intentionally being an ass, but it doesn’t seem to faze her.
‘You will.’
‘You’re a cocky little thing.’”

And this:

“When I was a kid, I begged my dad for a pony. Growing up in New York, it was impossible, so he sent me to horse camp every summer until I graduated high school. That’s when I became obsessed with cowboys. I’ve never shared that with anyone before.” She nods and glances at me. “It’s because you actually listen. Most people don’t.”
“I’m not most people,” I reply.”

I didn’t like how aggressively Emma pursued Hudson, and the fake dating plot with Lucas felt pointless. Why was Lucas even baiting Hudson like that? Wasn’t this whole plan his idea in the first place?

Then, in the middle of the book, we find out the main characters had already been together months ago and were actually getting back together. That revelation completely threw off the pacing because instead of a natural progression of falling in love, they were already in love from the start. They just immediately jumped into playing house. It also made their earlier banter feel forced and out of place.

I won’t be continuing this series since Lucas is the focus of the next book. His character was already annoying, and the way he acted when he met his future love interest was just ugly and disrespectful.

[Elizabeth Satala (ElizaJayneReads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5

I didn’t think that Hudson Jolly was going to top his brother, Jake, from A Very Merry Mistake, but I was sorely mistaken. He was an incredible man who got burned in the worst way from a person he was going to spend his life with, and that made him a bit scrooge-y. His sole focus was to give his son the best life he could and to help manage the family Christmas Tree farm. Hudson wasn’t looking for love, nor wanted it, but when Emma came blazing into his life, couldn’t help but be smitten with her. They met briefly during the summer, and their connection was instant. She ended up abruptly leaving and took a piece of his heart with her. Fast forward to the holiday season, Emma returns to Merryville because she promised her sister she’d spend some time with her. When Emma and Hudson see each other again, all of those feelings from summer some roaring back. Emma has rules when it comes to relationships because she was also burned big time. She never gets involved with people unless someone passes her five-rule test, and she knew right away that Hudson would obliterate her rules. She was ready to be all in with Hudson and his son, Colby, but Hudson was still hesitant to let someone into his life that could break him and Colby’s hearts. Hudson realizes that Emma is a once-in-a-lifetime woman, and he’d be a fool to let her get away. She had one request of Hudson on New Years Eve, and he needed to do that before she was willing to start her life with Hudson and Colby. This book made me laugh so many times. Emma was a spitfire and wasn’t afraid to truly be herself around Hudson. She was used to putting on a persona for the internet, but with Hudson, her true self shined through. Hudson immediately softened for Emma. He was used to putting walls up, but Emma got through his walls, and he knew, after a while, that he could trust her with his heart. I love this little town in Merryville,Texas, and I can’t wait to head back next year for Lucas’ story! I am a Lyra Parish Stan, and she will forever be an auto-read author of mine!

[Tiffany W · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Very Merry series, and we’re back in Merryville and at Jolly Farms.Emma and Hudson are literally the same person—they’re both too stubborn to see it. But their journey to figuring it out? Oh, it was so worth it.

Emma is running from a broken heart and, thanks to the internet, has earned the nickname “Maneater,” with rumors swirling about her having a new man every month. That is, until a secret fling with her sister’s fiancé’s brother turns her world upside down. Now, she finds herself running toward what could be her Mr. Forever.

Hudson, on the other hand, has been closed off to love ever since his wife left him. His life revolves around work and raising his son—until a one-night stand with a feisty redhead changes everything. Now, he can’t get her out of his mind.

I loved these two together. Their chemistry was electric, and their flirty banter was so much fun. I especially appreciated how Emma was upfront about what she wanted and never backed down, even when Hudson made things difficult. That said, I’m glad Hudson took his time letting her in and breaking down his walls. One of my favorite scenes has to be when they confessed their feelings after that unforgettable night in July.

While the spice was definitely present, I appreciated that it didn’t overshadow the romance. Emma’s relationship with Hudson’s son, Colby, was absolute perfection. I loved how she met him where he was (as much as one can meet a five-year-old where they are!). And her dynamic with the Jolly brothers was equally delightful—their teasing and playful jabs added so much warmth to the story. And, of course, Mawmaw stole the show!

Lastly, major kudos to Hudson for making the effort to connect with Emma and Claire’s dad. It was such a sweet touch that showed how much he cared. I can’t wait for Lucas and Holidays book, I need to know what happen there.

[Lisa Hemming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merryville is the happiest place on earth and the perfect backdrop for a magical holiday romance!. Emma and Hudson had shared one spicy night over a year ago, and neither of them had forgotten how life changing that night had been. Emma was back in town to regroup and relax after a bad breakup and was in desperate need of some peace and quiet. Her sister Clare was engaged to Hudson’s brother, Jake, and she was so happy that Emma was here to stay (if she had anything to say about it.)

Emma was a confident and astute businesswoman who lived for the limelight but had recently realized that what was missing from her life was true love, and a man who would love her unconditionally. The minute she met Hudson she knew he was the one she would walk hand-in-hand with for the rest of her life. Emma never met a situation she couldn’t control so even though Hudson wanted her to think he was immune to her flirtatiousness, she could tell he was just as smitten as she was. Hudson was her soulmate and she would do anything to spend the rest of her life in the quaint and magical town.

My favorite character has to be sweet Colby, Hudson’s smart and precocious son. He is the apple of his father’s eye and it didn’t take long for him to befriend Emma, who willingly agreed to be his temporary nanny. Hudson knew that being in close quarters with Emma was dangerous, and could be heartbreaking, but he craved Emma but more importantly, his son loved her and that was the icing on the cake. Even though Hudson, Emma and Colby made the perfect family, you never know who or what could be lurking in a dark corner, ready to put coal in their stockings. I am sure the magic of Merryville will sprinkle tidings of good joy and happiness all around this special family!

[Melissa (honeybee.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Merry Nanny is the second book in the Very Merry series, it can read fine as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading the prior book also. As much as I loved A Very Merry Mistake, Lyra hit an absolute home run with this one. I haven't been ultimately obsessed and consumed by a book where I couldn't put it down as much so that I went way past my bedtime, well this one was the one! This story hooked me from the start, her writing was mesmerizing, the Christmas setting is utter PERFECTION and the characters an absolute treat.

I am in love with Hudson, he was so grumpy, pushed love away, but with Emma he just couldn't. It hit him right in the heart. Same went for Emma. They were both entirely obsessed with one another. The evolution of their relationship, the way they opened up to each other, how they did not give up on one another it was such a beautiful love story to watch grow. Colby (Bee 🥹) was the sweetest little boy, he truly added such an adorable aspect to the book. To watch them all become a family made my heart melt. The most refreshing aspect for me, no third act breakup, adult communication and very low drama, 👏👏!!

Lyra truly ensnared me with this magically beautiful Christmas romance. I only have amazing things to say about this book, you truly need to read it to experience the magic and beauty of Merryville. Absolute perfection, one of my favorite holiday reads ever !

✨️Thank you to @lyraparish for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Angie (mushmysteriesandmore) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emma Manchester is a maneater, she has strict rules about her love life and she never gives second chances. Unless your name is Hudson Jolly and you’re the biggest grump in Merryville.

Hudson Jolly has been hurt in the past and won’t open his heart to that pain again. Besides, now he has his adorable son Colby to think about. He doesn’t date, or even think about dating until he sees HER again. Emma Manchester. She’s the one who got into his head then left and now he won’t let her in again. But she wants in, Hudson is everything she wants in a guy and she’s not buying his grumpy Grinch routine. His precious son Colby also happens to adore her and the fact Hudson’s brother Jake is marrying her sister Claire means she gets plenty of chances to see both Hudson and Colby and work her way into their hearts.

Hudson and Emma had such amazing off-the-chart chemistry, I totally loved it. They both knew they were bad for each other yet also so perfect for each other. Colby was such a darling little boy, tantrums and all. Abandoned by his biological mother, he wants Emma to be his new mum and can’t understand why she can’t be.

The spicy scenes were plentiful but not at the expense of the plot, the right amount of spice amongst the sweetness of the plot itself.

I haven’t read the first book of this series which was Jake and Claire’s story but I don’t think you needed to have read it to fully enjoy this one as they are standalone. I will be making sure I read the first book soon though as I really enjoyed this book.

[Lynn61 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I wonder if he knows he's gotten under my skin. I hope I’m buried under his.”

“Our gazes lock, and time seems to stand still as I admire her pretty face. A lifetime passes between us, and she takes my breath away.”

Sometimes you read a story that touches you deep inside and causes such happiness yet also gut wrenching - that’s this story!! One of my favorite contemporary romance read for the year! It pulls no punches as it tugs the heartstrings. There’s hope, love, family, sadness, loss and steam. Emma and Hudson have learned to protect their hearts but nothing could have prepared them for each other. Throw in lots of family interaction(my personal favorite) and a twist I didn’t see coming. My only complaint (if you can call it that) was that Emma had so much money and no real explanation how she got the money. Colby just adds to the beauty of the story and I could totally relate to having a Tinsel 🐈 in their life. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this story.