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Single Dad Hotline #3
Heart Strings & Hotlines
From Amazon best-selling author Avery Maxwell comes a small-town billionaire romance with a single dad hero who doesn’t quite fit in, tender neurodivergent representation, and a heartfelt friends-to-lovers journey that turns an unexpected connection into a love worth fighting for.
The job was everything. It’s been my heart, my soul, and my proprietary programming that’s made the Single Dad Hotline a multi-million-dollar enterprise.
And that makes me a target.
I know better than to trust anyone. I keep my staff and clients at a distance. The one time I slip up, it had to be with him. Boundary-ignoring, single-minded billionaire Thane Wilder. The man has never met a rule he didn’t question and now he’s questioning every single one of mine.
I’m fighting corporate espionage. He’s trying to win over a rebellious teenage sister and just brought the battle to me by buying the house next door. Neither of us has time for a relationship, so I’m going to have to be the logical one and deny our chemistry.
I refuse to be charmed by the intensity of his attention, and there’s no way I’m even considering his proposition…even if it is intriguing. He might say that he wants me for me, but I know he’s keeping something from me.
And if there’s one thing I know for certain, it’s that secrets ruin everything.
The job was everything. It’s been my heart, my soul, and my proprietary programming that’s made the Single Dad Hotline a multi-million-dollar enterprise.
And that makes me a target.
I know better than to trust anyone. I keep my staff and clients at a distance. The one time I slip up, it had to be with him. Boundary-ignoring, single-minded billionaire Thane Wilder. The man has never met a rule he didn’t question and now he’s questioning every single one of mine.
I’m fighting corporate espionage. He’s trying to win over a rebellious teenage sister and just brought the battle to me by buying the house next door. Neither of us has time for a relationship, so I’m going to have to be the logical one and deny our chemistry.
I refuse to be charmed by the intensity of his attention, and there’s no way I’m even considering his proposition…even if it is intriguing. He might say that he wants me for me, but I know he’s keeping something from me.
And if there’s one thing I know for certain, it’s that secrets ruin everything.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2025
417 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Avery Maxwell
20 books1,011 followersHi, I’m Avery!
I write steamy small towns with big found families—the kind of romances that make your heart race and your soul sigh.
My books, like The Westbrooks, Single Dad Hotline, and Happiness Ever After series, are filled with swoon-worthy heroes, messy but lovable heroines, and small towns you’ll want to call home.
When I'm not writing, I live in joyful chaos with my husband and four kids. You can usually find me cheering on the sidelines at their sporting events, sneaking in writing sprints, or slipping into coffee shops for my daily caffeine fix.
I luv connecting with readers, so join me in The Luv Club (my reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
Or through my weekly newsletter, The Luv Notes—because in my world, there’s always room at the table for one more luv story: https://geni.us/TheLuvNotes
You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
I write steamy small towns with big found families—the kind of romances that make your heart race and your soul sigh.
My books, like The Westbrooks, Single Dad Hotline, and Happiness Ever After series, are filled with swoon-worthy heroes, messy but lovable heroines, and small towns you’ll want to call home.
When I'm not writing, I live in joyful chaos with my husband and four kids. You can usually find me cheering on the sidelines at their sporting events, sneaking in writing sprints, or slipping into coffee shops for my daily caffeine fix.
I luv connecting with readers, so join me in The Luv Club (my reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
Or through my weekly newsletter, The Luv Notes—because in my world, there’s always room at the table for one more luv story: https://geni.us/TheLuvNotes
You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
June 9, 2025
3.7 Rounded to 4⭐️ only for the MMC. I loved him sooo much! He totally carried the whole book.
The way he fell so hard for the FMC and how he’d never felt anything like that before was so adorable. He has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) and is completely obsessed with trying to understand her expressions and emotions. I’m always a sucker for stories where the FMC is the MMC’s exception and special person and this one hit the mark (he did stalk her a little and even moved in next door but in a funny way 😂). Actually the MMC made me laugh way more than I expected.
“It’s really unsettling when you study me like that.”
“Like what?”
“Like you’re trying to crawl inside my mind to read all my thoughts.”
“I am.”
Except for his sister, he had never cared about anyone until the FMC came into his life. Despite dealing with some heavy emotional baggage from his abusive father, he always made an effort when it came to the FMC and his sister. What really stood out to me was how honest he was about his feelings and how relentless he was in going after the FMC. He didn’t exactly understand boundaries (at all 😂) but somehow that made him even more likable.
“I’m…different, Charlotte. I miss a lot of cues. I won’t remember birthdays or know that you’re upset until it’s too late, but I don’t ever want to be the cause of your tears. So if I did something, anything, today, I need you to tell me.” His words are sincere, but his tone is gruff, as though he’s angry.”
* * *
“The only reason I can come up with…
Is that I care, and I know it’s true because I haven’t cared about anyone but my sister and myself in a very long time. Maybe ever. But when I make my list, the needs I have are clear. I need to take care of you. I need to be wherever you are. I need to protect, and sooth, and encourage. Do I know how to do any of those things?” He shakes his head, and for the first time, I get the impression that he’s sad. “No. I don’t. But I know that this is real because nothing and no one has ever made me want to try to do these things. No one has ever been worth it for me to try. No one, until you.”
Some people might think the MCs’ relationship moved too fast (I’m usually not into that) but I didn’t really mind it here… I actually enjoyed it.
~ What I didn’t like:
⇒ Ngl, the MMC’s sister annoyed me in the first half of the book but she grew on me later and I liked how her relationship with her brother developed.
⇒ The FMC drove me crazy sometimes! She didn’t want help from anyone — especially the MMC — all because of her daddy issues. 🤦🏻♀️ It took her a while to let him in.
⇒ The 3rd act break up… I saw that coming from a mile away but thankfully, it didn’t drag on for more than two chapters.
⇒ They sorted out all their issues with their fathers (off-page) and we only got told about it.
⇒ Just like the previous book, too many side characters! I kept forgetting who’s who.
Overall it was a sweet and fun read.
______
Safety:
— H (32) / h (26)
— Strangers to friends to lovers
— Small town / neighbors
— Insta-attraction
— He falls first and harder
— Obsessed, possessive H
— Single guardian of his sister (13 yo)
— No virgins:
╰┈➤ Both are experienced.
╰┈➤ None manwhore. He said he didn’t date much or really cared about it! Not until he met the h.
╰┈➤ No info on the H last time!
╰┈➤ The h has been celibate for a while.
— No ow/om/cheating
— 3rd act break up (separated for one day)
— Push from the h
— HEA (bonus epilogue 10 years later with twins)
Trigger :
— The H has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder)
— Emotional abuse (both MCs had awful fathers):
They both caused trouble for the MC.
— Parental neglect (by the MCs’ fathers)
=============
Self note:
I think the MMC’s sister (Kara) is gonna have her own book with Weston! He’s kinda got the same condition as her brother. They met when they were 13 / 14 and they’ve been best friends for ten years now + he’s had a crush on her the whole time (friends to lovers).
“When Kara enters a room, Weston looks like he’s taking his very first breath of fresh air every time. So far, they’ve maintained a really wonderful friendship, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it evolves into something more.”
The way he fell so hard for the FMC and how he’d never felt anything like that before was so adorable. He has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) and is completely obsessed with trying to understand her expressions and emotions. I’m always a sucker for stories where the FMC is the MMC’s exception and special person and this one hit the mark (he did stalk her a little and even moved in next door but in a funny way 😂). Actually the MMC made me laugh way more than I expected.
“It’s really unsettling when you study me like that.”
“Like what?”
“Like you’re trying to crawl inside my mind to read all my thoughts.”
“I am.”
Except for his sister, he had never cared about anyone until the FMC came into his life. Despite dealing with some heavy emotional baggage from his abusive father, he always made an effort when it came to the FMC and his sister. What really stood out to me was how honest he was about his feelings and how relentless he was in going after the FMC. He didn’t exactly understand boundaries (at all 😂) but somehow that made him even more likable.
“I’m…different, Charlotte. I miss a lot of cues. I won’t remember birthdays or know that you’re upset until it’s too late, but I don’t ever want to be the cause of your tears. So if I did something, anything, today, I need you to tell me.” His words are sincere, but his tone is gruff, as though he’s angry.”
* * *
“The only reason I can come up with…
Is that I care, and I know it’s true because I haven’t cared about anyone but my sister and myself in a very long time. Maybe ever. But when I make my list, the needs I have are clear. I need to take care of you. I need to be wherever you are. I need to protect, and sooth, and encourage. Do I know how to do any of those things?” He shakes his head, and for the first time, I get the impression that he’s sad. “No. I don’t. But I know that this is real because nothing and no one has ever made me want to try to do these things. No one has ever been worth it for me to try. No one, until you.”
Some people might think the MCs’ relationship moved too fast (I’m usually not into that) but I didn’t really mind it here… I actually enjoyed it.
~ What I didn’t like:
⇒ Ngl, the MMC’s sister annoyed me in the first half of the book but she grew on me later and I liked how her relationship with her brother developed.
⇒ The FMC drove me crazy sometimes! She didn’t want help from anyone — especially the MMC — all because of her daddy issues. 🤦🏻♀️ It took her a while to let him in.
⇒ The 3rd act break up… I saw that coming from a mile away but thankfully, it didn’t drag on for more than two chapters.
⇒ They sorted out all their issues with their fathers (off-page) and we only got told about it.
⇒ Just like the previous book, too many side characters! I kept forgetting who’s who.
Overall it was a sweet and fun read.
______
Safety:
— H (32) / h (26)
— Strangers to friends to lovers
— Small town / neighbors
— Insta-attraction
— He falls first and harder
— Obsessed, possessive H
— Single guardian of his sister (13 yo)
— No virgins:
╰┈➤ Both are experienced.
╰┈➤ None manwhore. He said he didn’t date much or really cared about it! Not until he met the h.
╰┈➤ No info on the H last time!
╰┈➤ The h has been celibate for a while.
— No ow/om/cheating
— 3rd act break up (separated for one day)
— Push from the h
— HEA (bonus epilogue 10 years later with twins)
Trigger :
— The H has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder)
— Emotional abuse (both MCs had awful fathers):
They both caused trouble for the MC.
— Parental neglect (by the MCs’ fathers)
=============
Self note:
I think the MMC’s sister (Kara) is gonna have her own book with Weston! He’s kinda got the same condition as her brother. They met when they were 13 / 14 and they’ve been best friends for ten years now + he’s had a crush on her the whole time (friends to lovers).
“When Kara enters a room, Weston looks like he’s taking his very first breath of fresh air every time. So far, they’ve maintained a really wonderful friendship, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it evolves into something more.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
This was a very fun and wholesome read🥰 Thane and Lottie were great characters and I loved the single guardian rep + Kara and Lottie’s bond🥹🫶🏽 My only complaint is that I would have liked to see Lottie make Thane suffer more after the “betrayal” (nothing major tbh)…guess I’m toxic hahahaha😂 Overall, this was a healthy romance with some steamy scenes and a wholesome vibe☺️
Safety squad:
- no OW/OM drama
- no cheating/sharing
- no manwhores/virgins
- single guardian (he has custody of his little sister)
- obsessed H
- he falls first
- HEA w/marriage
Safety squad:
- no OW/OM drama
- no cheating/sharing
- no manwhores/virgins
- single guardian (he has custody of his little sister)
- obsessed H
- he falls first
- HEA w/marriage
May 20, 2025
4.75⭐️ 2🌶️
I love when a romance book has that little extra KICK that will just rip your heart out 🤌🏻 When I tell you this was EVERYTHING TO ME. It’s so refreshing to read something so DIFFERENT in this genre, and I think this one will stick with me for a long time. I’m a harsh rater in general, but I think I’ll probably end up circling back to this and bumping it to a 5⭐️ Now, let’s get into why this book eviscerated me in the best way possible‼️
The story follows Thane right after he gains custody of his 13 year old sister. Thane has struggled with major sensory and social issues his entire life, and has no idea what he’s doing. He enlists the help of the Single Dad Hotline - specifically, the creator of the Hotline, Lottie. They fall in love (obv) and while the romance was BEAUTIFUL, my fav thing about this book was actually Thane’s personal journey.
The romance almost took a back seat for me, with Thane’s personal journey becoming the main driving factor and what had me so invested in the story. I connected with his character on such a personal level. My daughter struggles with the exact same issues that Thane did in this book (major sensitivity to light and sound, major struggles with social interactions) and the way it was written was so perfect. The emotional weight of it hit me like a fucking freight train. The way Thane was already dealing with so much, but he put himself second CONSTANTLY, to be there for his sister 😭 The LENGTHS this man went to for his sister just tore my heart clean from my chest‼️ The sibling dynamic added another layer to what was already such an emotional single dad story. Add in the romance with Lottie and gurl there was truly nothing left of me by the end of this 🫠
(Only reason I knocked off that .25 was because I didn’t care for how the smut was written (only 2 scenes but they just didn’t sit right lol) and I think some length could have been shaved off).
June 28, 2025
Was so looking forward to this book and thought it would rate higher for me, but it seemed to lose it’s steam near the end.
There’s this build up in the story to a confrontation with the 2 bad fathers that just falls flat and ends too abruptly.
Thane was a really good character and it was interesting to learn about SPD, Lottie was ok (she had her own issues).
There’s this build up in the story to a confrontation with the 2 bad fathers that just falls flat and ends too abruptly.
Thane was a really good character and it was interesting to learn about SPD, Lottie was ok (she had her own issues).
May 26, 2025
FIVE HUGE STARS!!!!
• Guardianship/single dad
• Neurodivergent MMC
• Strong boss babe FMC
• Found family
• Friends to lovers
• Billionaire protector
• Small Town
• Fish out of water
I AM SPEECHLESS. Especially after that ending! I honestly don’t even know how to start a review for this book! I thought about taking some time to formulate my thoughts, but I am so afraid I’ll leave something out! So... here I am, seconds after ending the book and blowing up Avery’s DMs 🤣🫣
This book is everything. And I will start off by saying... I have been following Avery's beautiful world since the very beginning! She is the reason I really became such a diehard romance fan back in 2020 during the lonely pandemic! This world she has created is the perfect example of found family. It’s like walking into a warm hug every time. The stunning way she brings these characters to life and together will forever blow my mind! And seeing each book perfectly tied together, even in different series, that she fills with the perfect little easter eggs is my favorite part.
This book follows Thane after gaining custody of his younger sister. Watching Thane and Kara become close despite so many obstacles had my heart melting. The beautiful relationship that came after years of both of them feeling displaced and finding a safe place in one another, with the help of the adorable FMC, was so well done! I LOVED LOTTIE! She was such a strong FMC! And I loved the way she related to Kara and felt so drawn to not just Thane, but also Kara. Their bond felt so natural, like they were always meant to find each other. Lottie brought this calm, grounding energy that both Thane and Kara needed, and I loved watching her fold so effortlessly into their lives. The way they slowly built this little found family together? Ugh, my heart. It was tender and messy and real, and I couldn’t get enough. This story didn’t just tug on my heartstrings. It wrapped itself around my heart and didn’t let go.
One of the biggest things I have to mention about this book is the incredible way Avery wrote Thane's character. Writing a neurodivergent character comes with so many challenges and isn’t always captured well. But that is absolutely not the case here! Avery brought Thane to life beautifully. Thane is a character so many of us will be able to relate to, not only because he is neurodivergent, but also because of the incredible way he taught himself coping skills and the way he shared them with others. Thane understood his struggles. And I adored being in his head. His inner world was so raw and honest, and getting to experience it felt like such a gift. I found myself learning from him, rooting for him, and falling for every part of who he is. Avery didn’t just write a character. She gave us a whole, imperfect, and beautifully human person. Thane’s journey will stay with me for a long time, and the beautiful way she wrote his character!
If you know the Westbrook, you will be THRILLED to know that Avery included the absolute best Easter egg moments with them inside this book! As if I couldn’t have loved this book more, she brings my favorite chaos crew into it in the best, most heartfelt way. I am still covered in chills and drying my eyes. I found myself tearing up, and I’m someone who doesn’t cry, ever. But this incredible crew will bring out all the feels.
"They have their own fucking mantra, Charlotte. It’s ‘welcome to the chaos.’ ‘Welcome to the chaos.’ We would never be free from them. They’re like the mafia—once you’re in, you’re in."
Ahhhhh!!!! 🎉🎉🎉
If you haven’t met the Westbrook Crew, after finishing this book YOU NEED TO!!!
Avery has once again delivered a story that’s full of heart, healing, and the kind of characters that stay with you long after you’ve finished the last page. Thane, Lottie, and Kara’s journey was raw, emotional, and so beautifully done. I already know I’ll be thinking about them for a long time. If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and feel completely wrapped up in love, this one is it. Avery’s world is something truly special, and I’m just so grateful we get to be part of it.
• Guardianship/single dad
• Neurodivergent MMC
• Strong boss babe FMC
• Found family
• Friends to lovers
• Billionaire protector
• Small Town
• Fish out of water
I AM SPEECHLESS. Especially after that ending! I honestly don’t even know how to start a review for this book! I thought about taking some time to formulate my thoughts, but I am so afraid I’ll leave something out! So... here I am, seconds after ending the book and blowing up Avery’s DMs 🤣🫣
This book is everything. And I will start off by saying... I have been following Avery's beautiful world since the very beginning! She is the reason I really became such a diehard romance fan back in 2020 during the lonely pandemic! This world she has created is the perfect example of found family. It’s like walking into a warm hug every time. The stunning way she brings these characters to life and together will forever blow my mind! And seeing each book perfectly tied together, even in different series, that she fills with the perfect little easter eggs is my favorite part.
This book follows Thane after gaining custody of his younger sister. Watching Thane and Kara become close despite so many obstacles had my heart melting. The beautiful relationship that came after years of both of them feeling displaced and finding a safe place in one another, with the help of the adorable FMC, was so well done! I LOVED LOTTIE! She was such a strong FMC! And I loved the way she related to Kara and felt so drawn to not just Thane, but also Kara. Their bond felt so natural, like they were always meant to find each other. Lottie brought this calm, grounding energy that both Thane and Kara needed, and I loved watching her fold so effortlessly into their lives. The way they slowly built this little found family together? Ugh, my heart. It was tender and messy and real, and I couldn’t get enough. This story didn’t just tug on my heartstrings. It wrapped itself around my heart and didn’t let go.
One of the biggest things I have to mention about this book is the incredible way Avery wrote Thane's character. Writing a neurodivergent character comes with so many challenges and isn’t always captured well. But that is absolutely not the case here! Avery brought Thane to life beautifully. Thane is a character so many of us will be able to relate to, not only because he is neurodivergent, but also because of the incredible way he taught himself coping skills and the way he shared them with others. Thane understood his struggles. And I adored being in his head. His inner world was so raw and honest, and getting to experience it felt like such a gift. I found myself learning from him, rooting for him, and falling for every part of who he is. Avery didn’t just write a character. She gave us a whole, imperfect, and beautifully human person. Thane’s journey will stay with me for a long time, and the beautiful way she wrote his character!
If you know the Westbrook, you will be THRILLED to know that Avery included the absolute best Easter egg moments with them inside this book! As if I couldn’t have loved this book more, she brings my favorite chaos crew into it in the best, most heartfelt way. I am still covered in chills and drying my eyes. I found myself tearing up, and I’m someone who doesn’t cry, ever. But this incredible crew will bring out all the feels.
"They have their own fucking mantra, Charlotte. It’s ‘welcome to the chaos.’ ‘Welcome to the chaos.’ We would never be free from them. They’re like the mafia—once you’re in, you’re in."
Ahhhhh!!!! 🎉🎉🎉
If you haven’t met the Westbrook Crew, after finishing this book YOU NEED TO!!!
Avery has once again delivered a story that’s full of heart, healing, and the kind of characters that stay with you long after you’ve finished the last page. Thane, Lottie, and Kara’s journey was raw, emotional, and so beautifully done. I already know I’ll be thinking about them for a long time. If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and feel completely wrapped up in love, this one is it. Avery’s world is something truly special, and I’m just so grateful we get to be part of it.
May 11, 2025
Magnificent!
I don’t know how she does it, but Avery Maxwell continues to write powerful and heartfelt stories that take your breath away!
For the 3rd and final book in the Single Dad’s Hotline series, we witness the struggles of the hotline’s algorithm inventor, Charlotte (Lottie) Sinclair. Everyone and her father are trying to get their hands on her invention, including her new neighbor, billionaire Thane Wilder. Her father is trying to ruin her, hackers are trying to get her intellectual property, and Thane? She’s not sure what he wants from her.
Thane spends his days in a very safe bubble of his own making. But now he’s at a loss for how to care for and keep his little sister safe. He only knows that the buzzing in his brain quiets when Lottie is near, so the logical thing is to move next door to her.
Thane Wilder is undoubtedly the most intriguing and well-written male character I’ve ever read. His character arc is stunning! And we can’t discount the way Lottie cares for him. And I mean CARES. She cares about how people treat him, that he’s comfortable, that his sister understands his inability to communicate with her, and that he knows how much she loves him. They are a 99.97% match according to her algorithm, after all. Queue schmexy times!
I can’t recommend this book enough! The author has done a great job of ensuring this book can be read as a stand-alone, too! Bonus!
I had so many emotions reading this book; I know you will, too! Read it!
I don’t know how she does it, but Avery Maxwell continues to write powerful and heartfelt stories that take your breath away!
For the 3rd and final book in the Single Dad’s Hotline series, we witness the struggles of the hotline’s algorithm inventor, Charlotte (Lottie) Sinclair. Everyone and her father are trying to get their hands on her invention, including her new neighbor, billionaire Thane Wilder. Her father is trying to ruin her, hackers are trying to get her intellectual property, and Thane? She’s not sure what he wants from her.
Thane spends his days in a very safe bubble of his own making. But now he’s at a loss for how to care for and keep his little sister safe. He only knows that the buzzing in his brain quiets when Lottie is near, so the logical thing is to move next door to her.
Thane Wilder is undoubtedly the most intriguing and well-written male character I’ve ever read. His character arc is stunning! And we can’t discount the way Lottie cares for him. And I mean CARES. She cares about how people treat him, that he’s comfortable, that his sister understands his inability to communicate with her, and that he knows how much she loves him. They are a 99.97% match according to her algorithm, after all. Queue schmexy times!
I can’t recommend this book enough! The author has done a great job of ensuring this book can be read as a stand-alone, too! Bonus!
I had so many emotions reading this book; I know you will, too! Read it!
June 13, 2025
This book lost me multiple times while reading. It got kind of boring at times and didn’t hold my interest.
- Single guardian
- Billionaire
- Hero on the specter
- Strong FMC
She had invented a nanny service for single dads where she matches them with a nanny based on their algorithm. He is obsessed with her theory and wants it, but as soon as he meets the h, he falls for her.
Both have some trauma and there are some push/pull, mostly from the h.
Safety:
- H no manwhore, but been with other women. He doesn’t like touching so he always was in control (he loves the h touch)
- h also been with other men
- Neither never had anything serious
- No owd/omd
- Single guardian
- Billionaire
- Hero on the specter
- Strong FMC
She had invented a nanny service for single dads where she matches them with a nanny based on their algorithm. He is obsessed with her theory and wants it, but as soon as he meets the h, he falls for her.
Both have some trauma and there are some push/pull, mostly from the h.
Safety:
- H no manwhore, but been with other women. He doesn’t like touching so he always was in control (he loves the h touch)
- h also been with other men
- Neither never had anything serious
- No owd/omd
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2025
Thank you to Hambright for sending me a complimentary ebook in exchange for an objective review.
Thane Wilder is 32 and has just gotten custody of his 13-year-old sister, Kara, after their abusive father went to jail for a DUI. Thane and Kara have never been particularly close due to their age gap, their father's abuse and Thane's sensory processing disorder– he struggles to process things when around loud noises or lots of people. To get support, Thane turns to the single dad hotline to try to find a nanny to help him with his sister. Lottie Sinclair is the CEO and founder of the hotline. She created her own algorithm that has a high match rate for not only single dads and their nannies but has turned into a sort of matchmaking service. When she goes to run Thane through the system, it spits out the highest match she's ever seen. But it's not with one of her nannies– the match is for Lottie and Thane.
I have said it before and I will say it again: I am TRASH for a single dad romance, especially for an "I suddenly became guardian to this child and have no clue what to do" romance. Thane loves his sister and wants to be the best he can be for her, but because of his sensory issues and his social struggles, he doesn't know what to do with Kara. And because he doesn't read social cues, he has no idea that buying the house next to Lottie so she'll be nearby to help is pushing acceptable boundaries. He just knows that he needs help and Lottie is the answer. I really loved Thane. He means well and his black-and-white view of the world was so crystal clear in the writing. I also loved the journey he took to better understand his disorder and how he wants to try to grow because of Kara and Lottie.
Lottie was a fantastic character. I really enjoyed how she sees Thane for everything he is and doesn't try to change him. She recognizes that his differences are what makes him special and he doesn't need to change anything about himself to be worthy of or ready for a relationship. She has hangups but they're because of her own baggage with her shitty dad.
If you love a single dad, a billionaire romance where the billionaire donates money to libraries all over the country to combat book bans or an opposites attract romance, this one is for you.
Thane Wilder is 32 and has just gotten custody of his 13-year-old sister, Kara, after their abusive father went to jail for a DUI. Thane and Kara have never been particularly close due to their age gap, their father's abuse and Thane's sensory processing disorder– he struggles to process things when around loud noises or lots of people. To get support, Thane turns to the single dad hotline to try to find a nanny to help him with his sister. Lottie Sinclair is the CEO and founder of the hotline. She created her own algorithm that has a high match rate for not only single dads and their nannies but has turned into a sort of matchmaking service. When she goes to run Thane through the system, it spits out the highest match she's ever seen. But it's not with one of her nannies– the match is for Lottie and Thane.
I have said it before and I will say it again: I am TRASH for a single dad romance, especially for an "I suddenly became guardian to this child and have no clue what to do" romance. Thane loves his sister and wants to be the best he can be for her, but because of his sensory issues and his social struggles, he doesn't know what to do with Kara. And because he doesn't read social cues, he has no idea that buying the house next to Lottie so she'll be nearby to help is pushing acceptable boundaries. He just knows that he needs help and Lottie is the answer. I really loved Thane. He means well and his black-and-white view of the world was so crystal clear in the writing. I also loved the journey he took to better understand his disorder and how he wants to try to grow because of Kara and Lottie.
Lottie was a fantastic character. I really enjoyed how she sees Thane for everything he is and doesn't try to change him. She recognizes that his differences are what makes him special and he doesn't need to change anything about himself to be worthy of or ready for a relationship. She has hangups but they're because of her own baggage with her shitty dad.
If you love a single dad, a billionaire romance where the billionaire donates money to libraries all over the country to combat book bans or an opposites attract romance, this one is for you.
May 16, 2025
Lottie Sinclair is the creator and owner of the Single Dad's Hotline, a hugely successful business that pairs struggling single dads with telephone support and nannies. The only problem is everyone wants to get their claws in her company. But she's a strong woman who's overcome a lot of challenges and is determined to fight the corporate espionage on her own. All well and good, until single dad Thane moves in next door with his thirteen-year-old sister.
Thane Wilder is the most bless-his-heart MMC I think I’ve ever read, and I mean that in the very best way possible. He marches to the beat of a drum only he hears and sees the world differently on every level. It's made him a giant in the tech world but isolated in his own bubble. Let's just say that social cues are as foreign to him as code is to a non-programmer. His character arc is done so amazingly well, and Thane will always have his own piece of my heart.
From struggles with a teenage girl to meddling but kind neighbors and a small town full of charm to bad guys you’ll love to hate, I loved everything about this charming, poignantly awkward, humorous, heartfelt romance. And bringing in some of our beloved Westbrooks is the icing on the cake and a perfect way to end this series. This full-of-feels read will take you on an epic emotional ride, and you’ll love this world and its characters so much that you'll never want to leave.
Thane Wilder is the most bless-his-heart MMC I think I’ve ever read, and I mean that in the very best way possible. He marches to the beat of a drum only he hears and sees the world differently on every level. It's made him a giant in the tech world but isolated in his own bubble. Let's just say that social cues are as foreign to him as code is to a non-programmer. His character arc is done so amazingly well, and Thane will always have his own piece of my heart.
From struggles with a teenage girl to meddling but kind neighbors and a small town full of charm to bad guys you’ll love to hate, I loved everything about this charming, poignantly awkward, humorous, heartfelt romance. And bringing in some of our beloved Westbrooks is the icing on the cake and a perfect way to end this series. This full-of-feels read will take you on an epic emotional ride, and you’ll love this world and its characters so much that you'll never want to leave.
June 12, 2025
The 3rd book in Single Dad Hotline series is here!!! Some matches are made by algorithms. Others by the house next-door…
I absolutely loved this book! I love this series and was so excited for Lottie and Thane’s story and it was just perfect. The characters and the story were so good - this book is funny and emotional and charming and will 100% tug on your heartstrings.
Lottie is the creator of the Single Dads Hotline. She is smart and sweet and successful…and others want to get a hold of her company and her algorithm. Then Thane loves in next door….
I thought the author did a wonderful job showing Thane’s experience as someone who is Neurodivergent. It felt real and authentic and was handled with care. This man was all in for Lottie and worked so hard to care for her and Kara and he completely stole my heart.
Keep an eye out for a few cameos and Easter Eggs too. Be sure and read the epilogue and bonus scene!!!
✨What To Expect:
🏡 Steamy small town
📝 Neurodivergent Hero
💋 Badass Boss Heroine
🐠 Fish out of water
💖 Guardianship/Single Dad to a Teenager
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼 Found family
🤵🏼♂️ Billionaire protector
💞 He Falls First And Hard
👵🏻 A Secret Scuttlebutt Society
🐶 10 lb dog named Hercules
🌻 You’re Mine
I absolutely loved this book! I love this series and was so excited for Lottie and Thane’s story and it was just perfect. The characters and the story were so good - this book is funny and emotional and charming and will 100% tug on your heartstrings.
Lottie is the creator of the Single Dads Hotline. She is smart and sweet and successful…and others want to get a hold of her company and her algorithm. Then Thane loves in next door….
I thought the author did a wonderful job showing Thane’s experience as someone who is Neurodivergent. It felt real and authentic and was handled with care. This man was all in for Lottie and worked so hard to care for her and Kara and he completely stole my heart.
Keep an eye out for a few cameos and Easter Eggs too. Be sure and read the epilogue and bonus scene!!!
✨What To Expect:
🏡 Steamy small town
📝 Neurodivergent Hero
💋 Badass Boss Heroine
🐠 Fish out of water
💖 Guardianship/Single Dad to a Teenager
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼 Found family
🤵🏼♂️ Billionaire protector
💞 He Falls First And Hard
👵🏻 A Secret Scuttlebutt Society
🐶 10 lb dog named Hercules
🌻 You’re Mine
June 18, 2025
I am speechless. I finished Heartstrings and Hotlines literally a few minutes ago and I’m still trying to wrap my head around what I read. I never expected this book to be as amazing as it was.
This is the first time I’ve ever read a book where a neurodivergent character (the MMC, Thane) was written so well. I was able to clearly feel and understand his struggles. He also had amazing character growth as he learned how to better communicate his feelings and emotions. Hands down Thane carried the book and is the main reason why I loved it.
While the story mostly focused on Thane as he learned to better understand others, it also centered around him taking care of his sister while simultaneously falling in love with Charlotte. His dynamic with his sister was truly beautiful. My heart melted at the amount of effort Thane would put in to ensure his sister’s needs were met. I also couldn’t get enough of how well Charlotte was able to integrate herself into their lives. She was like the missing piece to their puzzle. She understood them both in ways I could never describe. Charlotte truly was made for them 🤧
I highly recommend checking out this book if you love small town romances with found family 💜
Thank you so much Hambright PR for the gifted eARC!
This is the first time I’ve ever read a book where a neurodivergent character (the MMC, Thane) was written so well. I was able to clearly feel and understand his struggles. He also had amazing character growth as he learned how to better communicate his feelings and emotions. Hands down Thane carried the book and is the main reason why I loved it.
While the story mostly focused on Thane as he learned to better understand others, it also centered around him taking care of his sister while simultaneously falling in love with Charlotte. His dynamic with his sister was truly beautiful. My heart melted at the amount of effort Thane would put in to ensure his sister’s needs were met. I also couldn’t get enough of how well Charlotte was able to integrate herself into their lives. She was like the missing piece to their puzzle. She understood them both in ways I could never describe. Charlotte truly was made for them 🤧
I highly recommend checking out this book if you love small town romances with found family 💜
Thank you so much Hambright PR for the gifted eARC!
May 28, 2025
Title: Heart Strings & Hotlines
Series: (Single Dad Hotline, Book 3)
Author(s): Avery Maxwell
Genre: Romance
Publication Date: May 28th, 2025
Publishing Co.:
Length: pages/ chapters
Rating: 5 ⭐️ / 1.5 🌶️
Trigger Warnings:
Tropes:
Fish out of Water
Found Family
fe Steamy Small Town
Billionaire Protector
Grumpy/Sunshine
Friends to Lovers
A Secret Scuttlebutt
Society to interfere in all things Thane and Lottie!
This book truly stole my heart! As a mom of a neurodivergent (autistic) child, I felt a deep connection to Thane’s character and to Lottie, who has such a patient heart, not only for him but also for Kara. It is beautifully written, relatable, and simply outstanding! I will most certainly be indulging in the first two books of this series.
I'd like to thank Avery Maxwell & Hambright PR , Company for an advanced copy of Heart Strings & Hotlines in exchang for an honest review.
*I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR, this review is my own opinion.
Series: (Single Dad Hotline, Book 3)
Author(s): Avery Maxwell
Genre: Romance
Publication Date: May 28th, 2025
Publishing Co.:
Length: pages/ chapters
Rating: 5 ⭐️ / 1.5 🌶️
Trigger Warnings:
Tropes:
Fish out of Water
Found Family
fe Steamy Small Town
Billionaire Protector
Grumpy/Sunshine
Friends to Lovers
A Secret Scuttlebutt
Society to interfere in all things Thane and Lottie!
This book truly stole my heart! As a mom of a neurodivergent (autistic) child, I felt a deep connection to Thane’s character and to Lottie, who has such a patient heart, not only for him but also for Kara. It is beautifully written, relatable, and simply outstanding! I will most certainly be indulging in the first two books of this series.
I'd like to thank Avery Maxwell & Hambright PR , Company for an advanced copy of Heart Strings & Hotlines in exchang for an honest review.
*I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR, this review is my own opinion.
May 14, 2025
Charlotte “Lottie” Sinclair might of created and runs the single dad hotline but one grumpy billionaire Thane Wilder might be a bit of an issue. He moved next door with his teenage sister & really wants her help whether she wants to help him or not. They didn’t get off on the right foot but maybe Lottie can loosen up Mr. billionaire and help him be better not just for his sister but himself too. Everyone wants a piece of Lottie and her brilliant algorithm that makes her business run but Thane may get more than he bargained for when he offers to help her out. This is the 3rd book in this lighthearted romcom series but don’t worry there are tender moments too. Get ready for Thane and his unique look at the world. Told in first person and dual POV.
May 28, 2025
The story was BEAUTIFUL. So many emotions, growth, banter & spice.
-Small quirky town
-Neurodivergent MMC
-Boss babe FMC
-Billionaire MMC
-“Single dad”/ big brother
-Banter
-Dual POV
-Spice
Thane’s personal journey is so amazing, and even opened up my eyes to the different journey we all take. The romance and swoon worthy moments in this are just * chefs kiss .*
Overall an amazing romance any and all romance lovers need to read!
-Small quirky town
-Neurodivergent MMC
-Boss babe FMC
-Billionaire MMC
-“Single dad”/ big brother
-Banter
-Dual POV
-Spice
Thane’s personal journey is so amazing, and even opened up my eyes to the different journey we all take. The romance and swoon worthy moments in this are just * chefs kiss .*
Overall an amazing romance any and all romance lovers need to read!
July 17, 2025
He is a billionaire with sensory issues that is trying to get custody of his sister from h
their terrible father. She is the owner of the Nanny app that is helping him with kid related questions, but also happens to be her perfect match.
Cute conclusion to this series.
All the series tied up.
I struggled a little with the MMC due to their lack of communication especially from Thane. But the HEA was lovely and lots of bonus content.
their terrible father. She is the owner of the Nanny app that is helping him with kid related questions, but also happens to be her perfect match.
Cute conclusion to this series.
All the series tied up.
I struggled a little with the MMC due to their lack of communication especially from Thane. But the HEA was lovely and lots of bonus content.
June 20, 2025
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice - 🌶🌶
Trope - fish out of water, billionaire romance, single guardian, strangers to friends to lovers, grumpy × sunshine, MMC with SPD, strong FMC, age gap, obsessed MMC, forced proximity, found family, he falls first, small town, workplace, steamy, mention of child neglect, HEA
Bonus chapter - 1
This was perfection from start to finish; the storyline was unique, and the author's inclusivity and knowledge on the topic were top-notch.
Thane has recently taken guardianship of his teenage sister, but he struggles to connect with her because of his SPD. He discovers the Single Dad Hotline and decides to give it a try, but it doesn't bring him much relief until he meets Lottie, the company's owner, whose algorithm is something he can't stop thinking about.
Lottie and Thane felt an instant connection between them. Things didn't get deeper until he realised that she was the solution to all his problems.
Thane was different from most, but his personality intrigued me in more than one way. He couldn't process emotions well, but I think he made me feel multiple emotions; something about him was comforting. I genuinely loved how adamant and persistent he was. His gentleness and care melted through me. Oh, I loved this man.
He might have struggled to decipher others' emotions and express his own, but he didn't struggle to speak his soul out when necessary - OMFG all the words he spoke to Lottie were filled with love, adoration, and so much care. He kept coming after our hearts with his gestures and words. I was envious of Lottie because to be loved by this man>>>>>>>>. He also had the biggest heart; he was the definition of the word "giver" - he saw a problem, and he resolved it without asking any questions. The best bonus was that he had such a bad mouth, like DAMN THANE!!!
Lottie said she was not made to be around children or have family, but I couldn't think of a person better matched for the Wilder siblings. She was so calm and considerate and genuinely put in effort to understand Thane and communicate with him, showing she cared. The way she soothed his soul felt like a balm to my pain. OH MY those scenes mended something in me. Her bond with Kara was lovely. She also was so damn strong and independent, loved that.
Both the MCs kept stealing my heart one after the other.
The way their relationship progressed, and they fought against all odds, showed the real definition of love and care. The spice was limited, but so damn GOOD!!
Side characters -
1. Rafe was such a lovely friend; I wish every person who struggled to be themselves had a Rafe by their side - he was the ultimate definition of a calm, supportive friend who would guide you until the end of time. He reminded me so much of my friend, and damn his patience and love just made me so much more grateful for my friend.
2. Kara looked like a typical teenager, but she stood out with the way she grew and became mature. Her and Thane's bond grew stronger eventually, and it was the most beautiful and caring relationship.
3. The Scuttlebutt were hilarious, and I loved how it made all the new members in the small town feel like they were home. Their care was evident throughout the book.
4. The other characters from the previous book were a good addition to the story.
5. Hercules was the best part.
___________________
I am not a fan of third-act break-ups, but I saw it coming from a mile away. I wish it didn't go that way, but I also understood why it happened. Though I was glad that it wasn't too prolonged.
THANE WILDER STOLE MY HEART in more than one way, and I don't want it back. The SPD representation was so good.
The final chapters were absolutely adorable. I loved the found family trope, and I cried tears of joy during the epilogue. This book couldn't have been more perfect.
The bonus chapter was once again captivating. I can't wait to see if we will get a book featuring Kara and Weston, as that's something I want to read.
I devoured this book!
Overall 5/5
Spice - 🌶🌶
Trope - fish out of water, billionaire romance, single guardian, strangers to friends to lovers, grumpy × sunshine, MMC with SPD, strong FMC, age gap, obsessed MMC, forced proximity, found family, he falls first, small town, workplace, steamy, mention of child neglect, HEA
Bonus chapter - 1
This was perfection from start to finish; the storyline was unique, and the author's inclusivity and knowledge on the topic were top-notch.
Thane has recently taken guardianship of his teenage sister, but he struggles to connect with her because of his SPD. He discovers the Single Dad Hotline and decides to give it a try, but it doesn't bring him much relief until he meets Lottie, the company's owner, whose algorithm is something he can't stop thinking about.
Lottie and Thane felt an instant connection between them. Things didn't get deeper until he realised that she was the solution to all his problems.
Thane was different from most, but his personality intrigued me in more than one way. He couldn't process emotions well, but I think he made me feel multiple emotions; something about him was comforting. I genuinely loved how adamant and persistent he was. His gentleness and care melted through me. Oh, I loved this man.
He might have struggled to decipher others' emotions and express his own, but he didn't struggle to speak his soul out when necessary - OMFG all the words he spoke to Lottie were filled with love, adoration, and so much care. He kept coming after our hearts with his gestures and words. I was envious of Lottie because to be loved by this man>>>>>>>>. He also had the biggest heart; he was the definition of the word "giver" - he saw a problem, and he resolved it without asking any questions. The best bonus was that he had such a bad mouth, like DAMN THANE!!!
Lottie said she was not made to be around children or have family, but I couldn't think of a person better matched for the Wilder siblings. She was so calm and considerate and genuinely put in effort to understand Thane and communicate with him, showing she cared. The way she soothed his soul felt like a balm to my pain. OH MY those scenes mended something in me. Her bond with Kara was lovely. She also was so damn strong and independent, loved that.
Both the MCs kept stealing my heart one after the other.
The way their relationship progressed, and they fought against all odds, showed the real definition of love and care. The spice was limited, but so damn GOOD!!
Side characters -
1. Rafe was such a lovely friend; I wish every person who struggled to be themselves had a Rafe by their side - he was the ultimate definition of a calm, supportive friend who would guide you until the end of time. He reminded me so much of my friend, and damn his patience and love just made me so much more grateful for my friend.
2. Kara looked like a typical teenager, but she stood out with the way she grew and became mature. Her and Thane's bond grew stronger eventually, and it was the most beautiful and caring relationship.
3. The Scuttlebutt were hilarious, and I loved how it made all the new members in the small town feel like they were home. Their care was evident throughout the book.
4. The other characters from the previous book were a good addition to the story.
5. Hercules was the best part.
___________________
I am not a fan of third-act break-ups, but I saw it coming from a mile away. I wish it didn't go that way, but I also understood why it happened. Though I was glad that it wasn't too prolonged.
THANE WILDER STOLE MY HEART in more than one way, and I don't want it back. The SPD representation was so good.
The final chapters were absolutely adorable. I loved the found family trope, and I cried tears of joy during the epilogue. This book couldn't have been more perfect.
The bonus chapter was once again captivating. I can't wait to see if we will get a book featuring Kara and Weston, as that's something I want to read.
I devoured this book!
Overall 5/5
May 28, 2025
I am on emotional overload but in a very good way. If you’re looking for romance look no further. Looking for parental conflict, you got it. Dealing with how to handle a sibling and the forthcoming teenage years when you have no clue. This is right up your alley. When you see someone and you feel things you never felt before and know in your heart of hearts this is the person you’re meant to be with forever and you decide that you’re all in.
This is just some of what you get in this beautiful book. There is so much more.
This author has a way of delving into subjects that matter. Taking you into situational life you may or may not be familiar with. Realizing every one has their own journey and issues. She takes the road less traveled and we are introduced to so many things both heartbreaking and beautiful. Showing us what many take for granted, some don’t understand or process the same way. That doesn’t make them strange. It makes look at things differently.
Thane is a brilliant billionaire tech mogul. He’s a loner and not an extrovert or even an introvert. Thane is neurodivergent. He doesn’t process emotions or cues. However one day he meets Lottie. For some unexplainable reason to him he’s drawn to her like a moth to a flame. There’s a song that goes Zing went the strings of my heart! That’s Thane. It’s like you know when you know that you know. The problem is Thane doesn’t know what it is he knows. He just needs to be near her. Fortunately he suddenly has custody of his little sister, Kara. Lottie has a company that helps single dads. Thane decides moving next door to Lottie is the perfect solution
Lottie is one of the best heroines I’ve ever read. She sees beyond what most see. She’s smart, successful and scared of her feelings. She’s extremely independent and a little untrusting of men, with good reason. Thane truly tests her patience, and makes her question her own beliefs but can hold her own.
I’ve given you enough. I don’t do spoilers. You need to read this this. Consider it your required summer reading you were given in school only this time you’ll enjoy it!
If you know this author’s work then you are familiar with her phrase,” Welcome to the chaos”.
This phrase perfectly fits this story. I personally am familiar with neurodivergence. It’s in my family. So this touches me deeply. It’s different for each individual. We need to learn and not take others for granted or prejudge because they don’t fit our mold or norm. We need to realize we are all a work in progress.
This book is the perfect example of true love in all its forms. It is definitely one of my favorite books of this year.
This is just some of what you get in this beautiful book. There is so much more.
This author has a way of delving into subjects that matter. Taking you into situational life you may or may not be familiar with. Realizing every one has their own journey and issues. She takes the road less traveled and we are introduced to so many things both heartbreaking and beautiful. Showing us what many take for granted, some don’t understand or process the same way. That doesn’t make them strange. It makes look at things differently.
Thane is a brilliant billionaire tech mogul. He’s a loner and not an extrovert or even an introvert. Thane is neurodivergent. He doesn’t process emotions or cues. However one day he meets Lottie. For some unexplainable reason to him he’s drawn to her like a moth to a flame. There’s a song that goes Zing went the strings of my heart! That’s Thane. It’s like you know when you know that you know. The problem is Thane doesn’t know what it is he knows. He just needs to be near her. Fortunately he suddenly has custody of his little sister, Kara. Lottie has a company that helps single dads. Thane decides moving next door to Lottie is the perfect solution
Lottie is one of the best heroines I’ve ever read. She sees beyond what most see. She’s smart, successful and scared of her feelings. She’s extremely independent and a little untrusting of men, with good reason. Thane truly tests her patience, and makes her question her own beliefs but can hold her own.
I’ve given you enough. I don’t do spoilers. You need to read this this. Consider it your required summer reading you were given in school only this time you’ll enjoy it!
If you know this author’s work then you are familiar with her phrase,” Welcome to the chaos”.
This phrase perfectly fits this story. I personally am familiar with neurodivergence. It’s in my family. So this touches me deeply. It’s different for each individual. We need to learn and not take others for granted or prejudge because they don’t fit our mold or norm. We need to realize we are all a work in progress.
This book is the perfect example of true love in all its forms. It is definitely one of my favorite books of this year.
May 28, 2025
This book is a marvellous, insightful masterpiece with characters that have found a permanent place in my heart. Thane and Lottie really are meant for each other, just as her algorithm indicated. It is not just obsession that drives him to move to Sweetbriar, Tennessee, to the house next door to Lottie. He is failing to connect with his sister and his stress at that, along with his sensory processing disorder and what he call’s his inner narrator, is overwhelming. Only one person seems to be able to calm him down and quiet the noise, and that person is Lottie. She is shocked to see her new neighbours and thinks perhaps Thane is a stalker until she once again touches him. That touch instantly calms them both. Lottie can see Thane’s loneliness, sadness and sincerity. When she learns about his disorder and his isolated childhood, then talks to his sister Kara, she can’t refuse to help them. The fact that her own algorithm has designated Thane as a near perfect match for her may have a part in her decision too.
There is so much to love about this book. Thane’s determination to change, to adapt for Kara and for Lottie, makes him swoon-worthy. Despite his gruff, growly and constantly irritated demeanor, Thane shows his generous and protective heart when he cares for Hercules, the abandoned and very needy dog, and Lottie when she is ill. His bossiness, his honest bewilderment and then his gradual transformation into a much more approachable, perceptive and communicative guy make him an excellent book boyfriend. I love the connection between Lottie and Thane, their super hot chemistry and the way they truly see each other. Her ability to stand her ground, not let Thane or her father bowl her over, to see the best in others and bring calm to most situations makes her a great heroine. So does Lottie’s confidence, creativity and intelligence which led her to come up with an algorithm that helps so many others to connect. Kara, Thane’s sister, has been through so much and is afraid to show how she feels or talk about them, especially with her much older, rather distant and seemingly cold brother. With the help of Lottie and Rafe, and seeing Thane’s sincere efforts to change for her, Kara blossoms into a sweet, engaging young lady. The Scuttlebutts are hilarious, a tad dotty and utterly fascinating. They certainly add to the enjoyment of this book.
This book deserves far more than five stars. It has my highest, wholehearted recommendation.
There is so much to love about this book. Thane’s determination to change, to adapt for Kara and for Lottie, makes him swoon-worthy. Despite his gruff, growly and constantly irritated demeanor, Thane shows his generous and protective heart when he cares for Hercules, the abandoned and very needy dog, and Lottie when she is ill. His bossiness, his honest bewilderment and then his gradual transformation into a much more approachable, perceptive and communicative guy make him an excellent book boyfriend. I love the connection between Lottie and Thane, their super hot chemistry and the way they truly see each other. Her ability to stand her ground, not let Thane or her father bowl her over, to see the best in others and bring calm to most situations makes her a great heroine. So does Lottie’s confidence, creativity and intelligence which led her to come up with an algorithm that helps so many others to connect. Kara, Thane’s sister, has been through so much and is afraid to show how she feels or talk about them, especially with her much older, rather distant and seemingly cold brother. With the help of Lottie and Rafe, and seeing Thane’s sincere efforts to change for her, Kara blossoms into a sweet, engaging young lady. The Scuttlebutts are hilarious, a tad dotty and utterly fascinating. They certainly add to the enjoyment of this book.
This book deserves far more than five stars. It has my highest, wholehearted recommendation.
May 17, 2025
This 3rd installment of the Single Dad Hotline series is hands down the best work of Avery Maxwell's career yet! Her writing gets better with every book she writes. And this one is simply breathtaking.
The FMC is Charlotte (Lottie) is a brilliant, beautiful and successful business woman who developed an algorithm for matching single dads with nannies. Well, that is how it all started. The success of this algorithm is so phenomenal, everybody who is anybody in the tech industry wants to steal it, including the sperm donor who calls himself her father. Her mother passed away when she was 10 years old and her father's dreams for her included sitting still and looking pretty. As if this powerful woman would even contemplate that scenario.
The MMC (Thane) is an equally brilliant, handsome and successful business owner, despite his being "different". His tech companies are the envy of everyone in the tech industry, including his horrible sperm donor who calls himself his father. Thane's mother disappeared after the birth of his much younger sister, Kara. And that despicable father of theirs didn't want Kara to "catch" the same traits as Thane so he disallowed Thane from visiting Kara as she was growing up.
As life happens, Thane's father was sent into time out for his 5th DUI and was mandated to attend classes for alcohol abusers. During this time, he was denied custody of Kara. In walks Thane to become her guardian.
This book will take you on the journey of Lottie, Thane and Kara as they navigate their trauma, confront their demons, and learn to allow themselves to love while becoming a family. The road is not smooth, the twists and turns are not easy, and the hills sometimes feel like mountains. But through it all, these amazing characters find their HEA.
Thane is neurodivergent. He has a sensory processing disorder that his father belittled. Lights, sounds, crowds, all wreak havoc on him. Lottie is his calm. She keeps him grounded. She sees him, the person who lives inside his chaotic mind. And he sees her and all of her strength, wanting to help her but never take any of her power away from her. Their relationship is absolutely gorgeous. And the spice is just delicious!
Grab this book, download it, whatever you need to do to read it. You can thank me later!
The FMC is Charlotte (Lottie) is a brilliant, beautiful and successful business woman who developed an algorithm for matching single dads with nannies. Well, that is how it all started. The success of this algorithm is so phenomenal, everybody who is anybody in the tech industry wants to steal it, including the sperm donor who calls himself her father. Her mother passed away when she was 10 years old and her father's dreams for her included sitting still and looking pretty. As if this powerful woman would even contemplate that scenario.
The MMC (Thane) is an equally brilliant, handsome and successful business owner, despite his being "different". His tech companies are the envy of everyone in the tech industry, including his horrible sperm donor who calls himself his father. Thane's mother disappeared after the birth of his much younger sister, Kara. And that despicable father of theirs didn't want Kara to "catch" the same traits as Thane so he disallowed Thane from visiting Kara as she was growing up.
As life happens, Thane's father was sent into time out for his 5th DUI and was mandated to attend classes for alcohol abusers. During this time, he was denied custody of Kara. In walks Thane to become her guardian.
This book will take you on the journey of Lottie, Thane and Kara as they navigate their trauma, confront their demons, and learn to allow themselves to love while becoming a family. The road is not smooth, the twists and turns are not easy, and the hills sometimes feel like mountains. But through it all, these amazing characters find their HEA.
Thane is neurodivergent. He has a sensory processing disorder that his father belittled. Lights, sounds, crowds, all wreak havoc on him. Lottie is his calm. She keeps him grounded. She sees him, the person who lives inside his chaotic mind. And he sees her and all of her strength, wanting to help her but never take any of her power away from her. Their relationship is absolutely gorgeous. And the spice is just delicious!
Grab this book, download it, whatever you need to do to read it. You can thank me later!
May 28, 2025
All the stars for this book!!!
Wow. Just. Wow. I’m not sure how Avery managed, but this series just keeps getting better.
After successfully matching nannies with their eventual partners, Lottie finally meets her match. Any boy is he a doozie. Thane Wilder has gained custody of his 13yr old sister, Kara, and to say he’s out of his element is an understatement. Kara is struggling and for reasons Thane does not understand, Lottie seems to be the only person that can connect with her. Thane, being Thane, buys the house next door to Lottie in his own misguided, stalkerish way of helping Kara.
Thane is the perfectly, imperfect hero that I will not forget. He’s neurodivergent and has a sensory disorder where sound, light and other things can affect him physically. He has a hard time recognizing emotions and tone, making it difficult to communicate. Avery does a masterful job of developing Thane’s character. It’s handled in a respectful, thoughtful way with doses of humor as Thane navigates his new town and the small-town nosy people that come with it. Considering his upbringing and being referred to as ‘broken’, I was captivated watching his journey to understanding and connecting with people. From a history of solitude to building relationships with Kara, Lottie, and various friends. Maybe a Westbrook or two!
Lottie is the perfect counterpart to Thane. She’s brilliant, beautiful, a true boss babe and fiercely protective of the ones she loves. When the earrings come off and she goes mama bear, it’s awesome. The interactions with Kara and the bond they develop is so sweet. She’s also independent to a fault. She’s determined to do things her way and has a hard time accepting or admitting when she needs help. This is a bone of contention between her and Thane. Thane’s fierce determination to overcome an obstacle or to solve a problem if he sees one is his love language. Words may be hard for him, but his actions speak louder than anything.
I can’t say enough about how much I loved this story. It has all the heart and humor you expect from this series, with more corporate espionage and fantastic smalltown characters thrown in. However, it’s a beautiful, emotional, thoughtful story that’s going to live rent-free in my head for a very long time. Run, don’t walk and grab this today!
Bravo Avery!!!
Wow. Just. Wow. I’m not sure how Avery managed, but this series just keeps getting better.
After successfully matching nannies with their eventual partners, Lottie finally meets her match. Any boy is he a doozie. Thane Wilder has gained custody of his 13yr old sister, Kara, and to say he’s out of his element is an understatement. Kara is struggling and for reasons Thane does not understand, Lottie seems to be the only person that can connect with her. Thane, being Thane, buys the house next door to Lottie in his own misguided, stalkerish way of helping Kara.
Thane is the perfectly, imperfect hero that I will not forget. He’s neurodivergent and has a sensory disorder where sound, light and other things can affect him physically. He has a hard time recognizing emotions and tone, making it difficult to communicate. Avery does a masterful job of developing Thane’s character. It’s handled in a respectful, thoughtful way with doses of humor as Thane navigates his new town and the small-town nosy people that come with it. Considering his upbringing and being referred to as ‘broken’, I was captivated watching his journey to understanding and connecting with people. From a history of solitude to building relationships with Kara, Lottie, and various friends. Maybe a Westbrook or two!
Lottie is the perfect counterpart to Thane. She’s brilliant, beautiful, a true boss babe and fiercely protective of the ones she loves. When the earrings come off and she goes mama bear, it’s awesome. The interactions with Kara and the bond they develop is so sweet. She’s also independent to a fault. She’s determined to do things her way and has a hard time accepting or admitting when she needs help. This is a bone of contention between her and Thane. Thane’s fierce determination to overcome an obstacle or to solve a problem if he sees one is his love language. Words may be hard for him, but his actions speak louder than anything.
I can’t say enough about how much I loved this story. It has all the heart and humor you expect from this series, with more corporate espionage and fantastic smalltown characters thrown in. However, it’s a beautiful, emotional, thoughtful story that’s going to live rent-free in my head for a very long time. Run, don’t walk and grab this today!
Bravo Avery!!!
May 26, 2025
This book… where to even begin. This book was a journey and I absolutely loved it. So let’s just start off with Thane, because I absolutely LOVE this man. Now the author gives you a bit of insight to Thane before you start reading the book. And the biggest thing you need to understand is that this man has always seen himself as ‘different’ from everyone else. He is well aware of it, but he is smart as hell and nothing in his life has forced him to change is way, until his little sister needs him, that is the start of his world completely changing.
Now on the outside everyone takes Thane for being a wealthy jerk, who chooses not to read the room, and just plain doesn’t care. But you learn following Thane that is not who he is, remember he is different’.
Now incomes Lottie, this woman is fierce, feisty, and always on the defense, because when your a leading woman in her industry, one that is heavily male dominated she has no other choice but to stand up to be heard. Lottie own a single dads hotline, she helps them connect with their perfect nanny to help support their lives and build good relationships for the kids. You learn that Lottie’s own past plays heavily into her passion.
Thane and Lottie relationship is rocks from the start and it take growth on both their parts to learn and change. But when Lottie’s own system matching results point out facts that Thane latches onto, Lottie learns quickly this so called jerk of a man is really just looking for someone to see him for truly who he is and accept and love him for all of his excellency and faults. This man GROWS and Learns constantly. And in this book, his character growth is heart warming. He is still him and always will be but he is able to change his ways for the ones he loves and that is full circle there!
I really can’t say enough that I loved about this book. Thane personality is a hoot and his internal narrator is just as funny! You get a crazy dog, the scuttlebuts society, a nosey friend/therapist, and a contractor who builds his way in, all in this book.
Yes there are sad moment but also sooo many times I laughed out loud. I ate this book up and can’t wait to go back and read the others in the series!!
Now on the outside everyone takes Thane for being a wealthy jerk, who chooses not to read the room, and just plain doesn’t care. But you learn following Thane that is not who he is, remember he is different’.
Now incomes Lottie, this woman is fierce, feisty, and always on the defense, because when your a leading woman in her industry, one that is heavily male dominated she has no other choice but to stand up to be heard. Lottie own a single dads hotline, she helps them connect with their perfect nanny to help support their lives and build good relationships for the kids. You learn that Lottie’s own past plays heavily into her passion.
Thane and Lottie relationship is rocks from the start and it take growth on both their parts to learn and change. But when Lottie’s own system matching results point out facts that Thane latches onto, Lottie learns quickly this so called jerk of a man is really just looking for someone to see him for truly who he is and accept and love him for all of his excellency and faults. This man GROWS and Learns constantly. And in this book, his character growth is heart warming. He is still him and always will be but he is able to change his ways for the ones he loves and that is full circle there!
I really can’t say enough that I loved about this book. Thane personality is a hoot and his internal narrator is just as funny! You get a crazy dog, the scuttlebuts society, a nosey friend/therapist, and a contractor who builds his way in, all in this book.
Yes there are sad moment but also sooo many times I laughed out loud. I ate this book up and can’t wait to go back and read the others in the series!!
May 27, 2025
Avery did it again. And by “it,” I mean made me laugh, cry, swoon, and then immediately open the book back up because I wasn’t ready to let it go.
Let’s start with the fact that the MMC, Thane, says things like "I'll help you learn to crave hearing your name" and calls Lottie “sweet little liar” and somehow I didn’t spontaneously combust. Holy. Freaking. Shit. That man is a walking, talking emotional heart attack.
Thane has just taken in his 13-year-old sister Kara after their dad gets his FIFTH DUI (yes, 5...like sir, sit down). Kara’s got a lot going on, as do most teenage girls, but Thane also has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), so parenting gets....ummm crackly. And by crackly, I mean a conversation about messed up hair can go from, "oh, we can get it fixed" to "What the hell did you do? You look like a rabid raccoon" real fast. Y’all, I cackled. But also, my heart.
He wants to do better, he tries, and that’s what got me. The trying. The fumbling. The growth. And the man does it with Rafe (the bestie we all deserve) and Kara in tow as they move to this small town and *plot twist* right next to Lottie, who Thane has decided is going to help him with Kara.
Lottie runs Heartstrings and Hotlines, which was supposed to match single dad's with care-helpers...but it has essentially turned into love matchmaking..ha. And wouldn’t you know, she gets matched with Thane. Sparks fly. Boundaries blur...errrr...are definitely crossed...and somehow (because boundaries are hard for Thane) she ends up in his orbit, helping him figure out life, love, and how to not sound like a feral porcupine when talking to his sister.
The Scuttlebutts, aka the town’s local meddling crew, are nosy, relentless, and exactly what Thane didn’t know he needed. The way this town shows up for its people...UGH inject it straight into my veins.
Avery handles the realities of SPD and anxiety with so much nuance and grace. It’s never preachy, never sugarcoated, just real. I have a couple of luvs in my life with SPD and I feel proud of the way it was coveyed.
This book is a gem, a hug, a gut-punch all rolled into one. I already know I’ll re-read it and make everyone I know read it too.
PS...PEEP you may also get to see some favorites from other books...eeekkkk.
Let’s start with the fact that the MMC, Thane, says things like "I'll help you learn to crave hearing your name" and calls Lottie “sweet little liar” and somehow I didn’t spontaneously combust. Holy. Freaking. Shit. That man is a walking, talking emotional heart attack.
Thane has just taken in his 13-year-old sister Kara after their dad gets his FIFTH DUI (yes, 5...like sir, sit down). Kara’s got a lot going on, as do most teenage girls, but Thane also has SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), so parenting gets....ummm crackly. And by crackly, I mean a conversation about messed up hair can go from, "oh, we can get it fixed" to "What the hell did you do? You look like a rabid raccoon" real fast. Y’all, I cackled. But also, my heart.
He wants to do better, he tries, and that’s what got me. The trying. The fumbling. The growth. And the man does it with Rafe (the bestie we all deserve) and Kara in tow as they move to this small town and *plot twist* right next to Lottie, who Thane has decided is going to help him with Kara.
Lottie runs Heartstrings and Hotlines, which was supposed to match single dad's with care-helpers...but it has essentially turned into love matchmaking..ha. And wouldn’t you know, she gets matched with Thane. Sparks fly. Boundaries blur...errrr...are definitely crossed...and somehow (because boundaries are hard for Thane) she ends up in his orbit, helping him figure out life, love, and how to not sound like a feral porcupine when talking to his sister.
The Scuttlebutts, aka the town’s local meddling crew, are nosy, relentless, and exactly what Thane didn’t know he needed. The way this town shows up for its people...UGH inject it straight into my veins.
Avery handles the realities of SPD and anxiety with so much nuance and grace. It’s never preachy, never sugarcoated, just real. I have a couple of luvs in my life with SPD and I feel proud of the way it was coveyed.
This book is a gem, a hug, a gut-punch all rolled into one. I already know I’ll re-read it and make everyone I know read it too.
PS...PEEP you may also get to see some favorites from other books...eeekkkk.
May 27, 2025
5/5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2/5🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📞Billionaire Romance
☀️Friends to Lovers
📞Single Dad
☀️Small Town
📞“Who Hurt You?”
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
📞Found Family
☀️Fish-Out-of-Water
📞Neurodivergent MMC
☀️Boss BABE FMC
I honestly don’t have the words to express how much I loved Heart Strings and Hotlines—but let me give it a shot, because this story needs to be talked about. This is the final installment in the Single Dad’s Hotline series– and it absolutely stole my heart. Watching Thane step into the role of guardian for his younger sister, Kara, was so BEAUTIFUL! He’s trying so hard to do the right thing in a world that’s never made much sense to him, and when he moves in next door to Lottie—the woman behind the algorithm that built a company to help dads like him—everything starts to CHANGE. Their slow-burn chemistry, the tender way Lottie steps into his and Kara’s lives, and the emotional depth of each moment they share? It was breathtaking. This story hit all the right notes—funny, emotional, swoony, and full of the found-family magic I always crave and LOVE!
Lottie is such a STRONG, compassionate FMC, and the way she sees Thane—truly sees him, not DESPITE his differences, but BECAUSE of them—had the tears rolling more than once. She doesn’t try to fix him or make him fit a mold. Instead, she meets him exactly where he is, and together they create something so completely RAW, beautiful, and totally THEM!!! Their journey is messy. It’s real, with trauma, tension, and so much healing woven into every single word. And Thane? His character growth is hands down one of the most authentic, heart-wrenching arcs I’ve read in a long time. Avery Maxwell handled his neurodivergence with so much care and respect, giving us a hero who is honest, flawed, brilliant, REAL, relatable, and completely unforgettable. This book isn’t just a romance—it’s a love letter to growth, connection, and finding your place in a world that doesn’t always make space for you. Something many (if not MOST) of us can relate to.
The biggest thank you to Avery Maxwell and Hambright PR for giving me a chance to read this beauty… not only that, but for the amazing bookmail to go along with it.
2/5🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📞Billionaire Romance
☀️Friends to Lovers
📞Single Dad
☀️Small Town
📞“Who Hurt You?”
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
📞Found Family
☀️Fish-Out-of-Water
📞Neurodivergent MMC
☀️Boss BABE FMC
I honestly don’t have the words to express how much I loved Heart Strings and Hotlines—but let me give it a shot, because this story needs to be talked about. This is the final installment in the Single Dad’s Hotline series– and it absolutely stole my heart. Watching Thane step into the role of guardian for his younger sister, Kara, was so BEAUTIFUL! He’s trying so hard to do the right thing in a world that’s never made much sense to him, and when he moves in next door to Lottie—the woman behind the algorithm that built a company to help dads like him—everything starts to CHANGE. Their slow-burn chemistry, the tender way Lottie steps into his and Kara’s lives, and the emotional depth of each moment they share? It was breathtaking. This story hit all the right notes—funny, emotional, swoony, and full of the found-family magic I always crave and LOVE!
Lottie is such a STRONG, compassionate FMC, and the way she sees Thane—truly sees him, not DESPITE his differences, but BECAUSE of them—had the tears rolling more than once. She doesn’t try to fix him or make him fit a mold. Instead, she meets him exactly where he is, and together they create something so completely RAW, beautiful, and totally THEM!!! Their journey is messy. It’s real, with trauma, tension, and so much healing woven into every single word. And Thane? His character growth is hands down one of the most authentic, heart-wrenching arcs I’ve read in a long time. Avery Maxwell handled his neurodivergence with so much care and respect, giving us a hero who is honest, flawed, brilliant, REAL, relatable, and completely unforgettable. This book isn’t just a romance—it’s a love letter to growth, connection, and finding your place in a world that doesn’t always make space for you. Something many (if not MOST) of us can relate to.
The biggest thank you to Avery Maxwell and Hambright PR for giving me a chance to read this beauty… not only that, but for the amazing bookmail to go along with it.
May 17, 2025
Thank you so much Hambright PR for sending me this ARC!
Heart Strings and Hotlines is the third standalone Contemporary Romance book in the Single Dad Hotline series and I loved it so much, Lottie and Thane’s story was beautiful and I had such a great time reading it.
Thane has always felt different and had a hard time understanding and connecting with people so when he becomes a guardian to Kara, his 13-year old sister, he wants help from Lottie, the owner of the best nanny services in the country. Moving next door to Lottie, he and Kara soon can’t imagine their lives without her, but with them all fighting traumas from their pasts, they need to decide whether they are ready to risk their hearts.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions, I smiled, laughed, cried and fell in love with this beautiful story and didn’t want it to end. My heart was hurting so many times for Thane and everything he went through in his life, his struggles with being neurodivergent were written in a really realistic and sometimes heartbreaking way and I loved how he finally found people who tried to understand and accepted him, his character development in this book was phenomenal and I really liked him. Lottie was a strong and independent heroine that I already liked from the previous books but she was amazing here, I loved seeing how she started to trust and opened up to Thane and Kara, they made such a beautiful family. Thane and Lottie’s romance was definitely a slow burn but I could feel the tension between them from the very beginning, I loved how perfect they were for each other and how they were working hard to communicate, they made an amazing couple and I loved seeing them slowly giving in to their feelings (and he fell first which is one of my favorite tropes!). It was amazing to see some familiar faces from previous books and I also really liked Kara, Rafe and of course Hercules, that dog stole the show quite a few times and Thane’s connection with her was a comedic relief.
Heart Strings and Hotlines is an amazing romance book, I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more books from this author.
Heart Strings and Hotlines is the third standalone Contemporary Romance book in the Single Dad Hotline series and I loved it so much, Lottie and Thane’s story was beautiful and I had such a great time reading it.
Thane has always felt different and had a hard time understanding and connecting with people so when he becomes a guardian to Kara, his 13-year old sister, he wants help from Lottie, the owner of the best nanny services in the country. Moving next door to Lottie, he and Kara soon can’t imagine their lives without her, but with them all fighting traumas from their pasts, they need to decide whether they are ready to risk their hearts.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions, I smiled, laughed, cried and fell in love with this beautiful story and didn’t want it to end. My heart was hurting so many times for Thane and everything he went through in his life, his struggles with being neurodivergent were written in a really realistic and sometimes heartbreaking way and I loved how he finally found people who tried to understand and accepted him, his character development in this book was phenomenal and I really liked him. Lottie was a strong and independent heroine that I already liked from the previous books but she was amazing here, I loved seeing how she started to trust and opened up to Thane and Kara, they made such a beautiful family. Thane and Lottie’s romance was definitely a slow burn but I could feel the tension between them from the very beginning, I loved how perfect they were for each other and how they were working hard to communicate, they made an amazing couple and I loved seeing them slowly giving in to their feelings (and he fell first which is one of my favorite tropes!). It was amazing to see some familiar faces from previous books and I also really liked Kara, Rafe and of course Hercules, that dog stole the show quite a few times and Thane’s connection with her was a comedic relief.
Heart Strings and Hotlines is an amazing romance book, I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more books from this author.
May 24, 2025
Avery Maxwell continues to write amazing stories! Heart Strings and Hotlines is another example of the brilliance that Avery is as an author! This is the 3rd book in the Single Dad’s Hotline Series. This can be read as a stand alone and is the story about the creator of the Single Dad't Hotline Lottie and Thane a successful businessman.
Lottie is a beautiful, successful and brilliant business women that has develop a matching system that for single dads and nannies. Her business so successful that everyone including her own father want to take her company from her. Then there is Thane who is successful, brilliant, business man in his own way. In the middle of trying to get complete custody of his 13 year old sister from his father who has 5 DUIs, must complete alcohol abuse classes and is not a great guy.
When Lottie and Thane cross paths their lives will never be the same again. I loved watching the relationship between Lottie and Thane grow throughout the book. Seeing the relationship blossom from, just working together, to friends, to a relationship was great. It also made the pace of the story really good because it didn’t feel like either stage of the relationship was rushed. I also love the relationship between Thane’s sister Kara and Lottie. It felt like Kara had someone she would could trust and turn to. Someone that understood her and could help her see things differently.
One thing that Avery is good at is writing really good side characters/found family aspect. In this case the side characters/found family being the neighbors that live by Lottie and Thane. They were, caring, helpful, and funny. This book has steamy moments but Avery does a great job of writing them. She doesn’t go over the top with them and puts the perfect amount of steamy scenes.
Overall, Heart Strings and Hotlines is a small town romance, with tender, funny, relatable, moments. Parts that will make your heart hurt and part that will make your heart grown with love. Once you start reading Heart Strings and Hotlines you will not be able to put it down.
Lottie is a beautiful, successful and brilliant business women that has develop a matching system that for single dads and nannies. Her business so successful that everyone including her own father want to take her company from her. Then there is Thane who is successful, brilliant, business man in his own way. In the middle of trying to get complete custody of his 13 year old sister from his father who has 5 DUIs, must complete alcohol abuse classes and is not a great guy.
When Lottie and Thane cross paths their lives will never be the same again. I loved watching the relationship between Lottie and Thane grow throughout the book. Seeing the relationship blossom from, just working together, to friends, to a relationship was great. It also made the pace of the story really good because it didn’t feel like either stage of the relationship was rushed. I also love the relationship between Thane’s sister Kara and Lottie. It felt like Kara had someone she would could trust and turn to. Someone that understood her and could help her see things differently.
One thing that Avery is good at is writing really good side characters/found family aspect. In this case the side characters/found family being the neighbors that live by Lottie and Thane. They were, caring, helpful, and funny. This book has steamy moments but Avery does a great job of writing them. She doesn’t go over the top with them and puts the perfect amount of steamy scenes.
Overall, Heart Strings and Hotlines is a small town romance, with tender, funny, relatable, moments. Parts that will make your heart hurt and part that will make your heart grown with love. Once you start reading Heart Strings and Hotlines you will not be able to put it down.
May 28, 2025
The perfect read for anyone who has ever felt “different”.
Single Dad (sibling)
Friends to lovers
Neurodivergent MMC
Billionaire
Small Town
Found family
Thane is a neurodivergent tech billionaire. He takes custody of his teenage sister to protect her from their father. As he finds himself a single dad he reaches out to the Single Dad Hotline for assistance.
Lottie is the owner of the Single Dad Hotline. Although she created the company to help single dads and their children, she does not participate in the face-to-face operation of the company. This is why she resists when Thane insists that she be the one to help him with his sister. She is also dealing with competitors, including her father, who are trying to acquire her company for their own gain.
Kara is a troubled teen who finds herself living with her older brother who she feels does not truly want her and views her as an inconvenience.
Heart Strings & Hotlines is a magnificent exploration of how three people navigate new and also existing tenuous relationships. Thane must face his neurodivergence head-on if he hopes to develop positive relationships with Lottie and Kara. Lottie and Kara must learn to adjust to Thane’s unique view of the world. At the heart of the book is the theme that sometimes loving someone is enough to make you change your perspective and face the hard things in order to create a happier future that they all deserve.
As in true Avery Maxwell style you have the small town backdrop with unforgettable and lovable side characters that embrace the newcomers once they have proven themselves worthy. The townspeople offer humor to offset the seriousness of the main topics.
It seems to be a trend that with each new book by this author, I declare, “This is her best so far.” She treats the topics and characters with such care that you can’t help but become invested in the outcome and root for their HEA.
I highly, highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates a gripping story with real characters and relevant topics. Grab your copy today. I also recommend reading the first 2 books in the series, they can all be read as standalone.
Single Dad (sibling)
Friends to lovers
Neurodivergent MMC
Billionaire
Small Town
Found family
Thane is a neurodivergent tech billionaire. He takes custody of his teenage sister to protect her from their father. As he finds himself a single dad he reaches out to the Single Dad Hotline for assistance.
Lottie is the owner of the Single Dad Hotline. Although she created the company to help single dads and their children, she does not participate in the face-to-face operation of the company. This is why she resists when Thane insists that she be the one to help him with his sister. She is also dealing with competitors, including her father, who are trying to acquire her company for their own gain.
Kara is a troubled teen who finds herself living with her older brother who she feels does not truly want her and views her as an inconvenience.
Heart Strings & Hotlines is a magnificent exploration of how three people navigate new and also existing tenuous relationships. Thane must face his neurodivergence head-on if he hopes to develop positive relationships with Lottie and Kara. Lottie and Kara must learn to adjust to Thane’s unique view of the world. At the heart of the book is the theme that sometimes loving someone is enough to make you change your perspective and face the hard things in order to create a happier future that they all deserve.
As in true Avery Maxwell style you have the small town backdrop with unforgettable and lovable side characters that embrace the newcomers once they have proven themselves worthy. The townspeople offer humor to offset the seriousness of the main topics.
It seems to be a trend that with each new book by this author, I declare, “This is her best so far.” She treats the topics and characters with such care that you can’t help but become invested in the outcome and root for their HEA.
I highly, highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates a gripping story with real characters and relevant topics. Grab your copy today. I also recommend reading the first 2 books in the series, they can all be read as standalone.
June 12, 2025
Smart. Sexy. Hilarious. Heartfelt. This is small-town romance at its best.
Avery Maxwell has completely outdone herself with Heart Strings & Hotlines, a sparkling blend of slow-burn romance, emotional vulnerability, and small-town chaos that hooks you from the first page and never lets go.
Lottie is a fiercely independent, brilliant businesswoman who built the Single Dad Hotline from the ground up. She’s sharp, guarded, and totally allergic to distractions, especially the tall, broody kind who moves in next door. Thane Wilder is a billionaire with baggage, a rebel heart, and a teenage sister he’s desperately trying to reach. His grumpiness is his armor, but underneath? He’s all heart.
Their chemistry is instant, but this isn’t your typical insta-love. Maxwell masterfully builds the tension between Lottie and Thane, layering their banter with bite, their glances with longing, and their slow-burn moments with so much tension you’ll be kicking your feet.
What makes this book stand out isn’t just the steam (which is delicious) or the banter (which is top-tier), but the heart. Lottie and Thane both carry scars—from work, from life, from love—and watching them slowly learn to trust, to let someone in, to believe they deserve more? That’s the kind of emotional payoff romance readers crave.
And let’s talk trope perfection:
• 🏡 Steamy small town: complete with quirky locals, community gossip, and found family vibes.
• 🌪️ Grumpy/Sunshine: Thane is the blueprint.
• 👩🏼❤️👨🏼 Friends-to-lovers with a mature emotional arc.
• 💻 Workplace tension meets neighbor proximity in the best kind of slow-burn setup.
• 👵🏻 And then there’s the Secret Scuttlebutt Society—think Golden Girls with a gossip addiction and matchmaking tendencies. It’s everything.
Maxwell’s writing is vivid, funny, and emotionally rich. She gives each side character depth (you’ll fall in love with Thane’s sister), and the pacing is pitch-perfect—balancing moments of levity with vulnerability in a way that feels effortless.
If you’re looking for a romance that will make you laugh, swoon, and feel, this is it.
Heart Strings & Hotlines isn’t just a book you read. It’s a book you live in.
Avery Maxwell has completely outdone herself with Heart Strings & Hotlines, a sparkling blend of slow-burn romance, emotional vulnerability, and small-town chaos that hooks you from the first page and never lets go.
Lottie is a fiercely independent, brilliant businesswoman who built the Single Dad Hotline from the ground up. She’s sharp, guarded, and totally allergic to distractions, especially the tall, broody kind who moves in next door. Thane Wilder is a billionaire with baggage, a rebel heart, and a teenage sister he’s desperately trying to reach. His grumpiness is his armor, but underneath? He’s all heart.
Their chemistry is instant, but this isn’t your typical insta-love. Maxwell masterfully builds the tension between Lottie and Thane, layering their banter with bite, their glances with longing, and their slow-burn moments with so much tension you’ll be kicking your feet.
What makes this book stand out isn’t just the steam (which is delicious) or the banter (which is top-tier), but the heart. Lottie and Thane both carry scars—from work, from life, from love—and watching them slowly learn to trust, to let someone in, to believe they deserve more? That’s the kind of emotional payoff romance readers crave.
And let’s talk trope perfection:
• 🏡 Steamy small town: complete with quirky locals, community gossip, and found family vibes.
• 🌪️ Grumpy/Sunshine: Thane is the blueprint.
• 👩🏼❤️👨🏼 Friends-to-lovers with a mature emotional arc.
• 💻 Workplace tension meets neighbor proximity in the best kind of slow-burn setup.
• 👵🏻 And then there’s the Secret Scuttlebutt Society—think Golden Girls with a gossip addiction and matchmaking tendencies. It’s everything.
Maxwell’s writing is vivid, funny, and emotionally rich. She gives each side character depth (you’ll fall in love with Thane’s sister), and the pacing is pitch-perfect—balancing moments of levity with vulnerability in a way that feels effortless.
If you’re looking for a romance that will make you laugh, swoon, and feel, this is it.
Heart Strings & Hotlines isn’t just a book you read. It’s a book you live in.
May 26, 2025
I don’t know where she gets the inspiration for her books, but Avery Maxwell has written what I believe is her best book yet, and that’s saying a lot because I’ve read and loved all of them!
This story is all about the personal growth, acceptance, understanding, and love of 3 people brought together by circumstances and fate. It’s a story of how Thane learned to read others' emotions and facial expressions. He comes off as harsh and aloof when in reality, no one took the time to really understand him and help him move beyond his childhood misguided beliefs until he met his college roommate, Rafe.
Thane Wilder is a very private man who rarely steps out of his comfort zone until he ends up as the temporary guardian for his 13-year-old sister Kara. He struggles to understand her emotions and to show his own emotions that he doesn’t really understand. Thane spent his childhood hidden away by a father that didn’t want him because he was “broken”.
Charlotte (Lottie) Sinclair is a strong, spirited woman who built the algorithm she uses to match single dads with a hotline nanny. Lottie matched Thane with her friend and partner Rowan, but Thane decided he wanted Lottie to be the nanny for Kara. But Lottie is dealing with problems of her own, trying to fight off hackers attempting to steal her program and her own father trying to take her company away from her.
The character growth and changes throughout this book were well written, and the author took great care to draw the picture for us as readers to see how Thane realizes he’s not broken or strange; he just sees and feels the world in a different way than others do. Watching Thane, Lottie, and Kara fight to build their lives together had me laughing and crying sometimes, both while reading the same page. Maxwell brought in a very special side character and his parents that readers of her Westbrook series will recognize and love. You want to add this to the top of your summer reading list! You won’t regret it!
This story is all about the personal growth, acceptance, understanding, and love of 3 people brought together by circumstances and fate. It’s a story of how Thane learned to read others' emotions and facial expressions. He comes off as harsh and aloof when in reality, no one took the time to really understand him and help him move beyond his childhood misguided beliefs until he met his college roommate, Rafe.
Thane Wilder is a very private man who rarely steps out of his comfort zone until he ends up as the temporary guardian for his 13-year-old sister Kara. He struggles to understand her emotions and to show his own emotions that he doesn’t really understand. Thane spent his childhood hidden away by a father that didn’t want him because he was “broken”.
Charlotte (Lottie) Sinclair is a strong, spirited woman who built the algorithm she uses to match single dads with a hotline nanny. Lottie matched Thane with her friend and partner Rowan, but Thane decided he wanted Lottie to be the nanny for Kara. But Lottie is dealing with problems of her own, trying to fight off hackers attempting to steal her program and her own father trying to take her company away from her.
The character growth and changes throughout this book were well written, and the author took great care to draw the picture for us as readers to see how Thane realizes he’s not broken or strange; he just sees and feels the world in a different way than others do. Watching Thane, Lottie, and Kara fight to build their lives together had me laughing and crying sometimes, both while reading the same page. Maxwell brought in a very special side character and his parents that readers of her Westbrook series will recognize and love. You want to add this to the top of your summer reading list! You won’t regret it!
May 26, 2025
Heart Strings and Hotlines is the third and final book in The Single Dad Hotline series. It follows Thane Wilder and Charlotte ‘Lottie’ Sinclair. I loved this book with my whole heart! It was emotional, funny, sweet, sad, and fun all rolled into one.
Thane is a billionaire who suddenly finds himself having temporary custody of his 13-year-old sister Kara. Growing up he was always told that he was different because he had the inability to recognize and understand emotions. He is smart, grumpy, calculating, thoughtful, kind, and has a big loving heart. This man is so freaking sweet and has always been trying to be there for his sister while she was growing up even when he never knew what to say or feel. He was used to only seeing gray but thanks to Lottie and Kara they brought color into his world.
Lottie is the owner of the Single Dad Hotline which helps single dads match with their perfect nanny. She meets Thane when he reaches out to find the perfect nanny for his sister but it turns out he only wants her. She is patient, kind, smart, independent and strong. I love that she shows Thane that she is a safe place for him to unmask. She understands Thane wholeheartedly and doesn’t try to change him but helps him thrive. Her relationship with Kara is also so special and they have an instant bond that can never be broken.
Thane and Lottie really are the perfect match. I was not expecting this book to be as emotional as it was but I loved every second of it. I honestly think this is Avery’s best book to date!! Also, I loved that we got to see the Westbrooks for a bit in this book and I totally cried because of it. I hope one day we get a next-gen with Kara and Wes!
This book can be read as a standalone but I recommend checking out the rest of the series as well!
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Small town
- Single dad/big brother
- Fish out of water
- Found family
- Billionaire
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Friends to Lovers
Thank you so much, Avery Maxwell and Hambright PR, for the gifted copy!
Thane is a billionaire who suddenly finds himself having temporary custody of his 13-year-old sister Kara. Growing up he was always told that he was different because he had the inability to recognize and understand emotions. He is smart, grumpy, calculating, thoughtful, kind, and has a big loving heart. This man is so freaking sweet and has always been trying to be there for his sister while she was growing up even when he never knew what to say or feel. He was used to only seeing gray but thanks to Lottie and Kara they brought color into his world.
Lottie is the owner of the Single Dad Hotline which helps single dads match with their perfect nanny. She meets Thane when he reaches out to find the perfect nanny for his sister but it turns out he only wants her. She is patient, kind, smart, independent and strong. I love that she shows Thane that she is a safe place for him to unmask. She understands Thane wholeheartedly and doesn’t try to change him but helps him thrive. Her relationship with Kara is also so special and they have an instant bond that can never be broken.
Thane and Lottie really are the perfect match. I was not expecting this book to be as emotional as it was but I loved every second of it. I honestly think this is Avery’s best book to date!! Also, I loved that we got to see the Westbrooks for a bit in this book and I totally cried because of it. I hope one day we get a next-gen with Kara and Wes!
This book can be read as a standalone but I recommend checking out the rest of the series as well!
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Small town
- Single dad/big brother
- Fish out of water
- Found family
- Billionaire
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Friends to Lovers
Thank you so much, Avery Maxwell and Hambright PR, for the gifted copy!
May 28, 2025
Five stars are nowhere near enough for this outstanding, emotionally charged, beautifully written and heartwarming love story. Maybe being an educator of special needs children, I found that as I read this book, it hit close to home. Page after page, I could relate to what people were feeling when they interacted with Thane. Ms. Maxwell took an idea for a romance and added so much more that it became one story that I will cherish and remember for a long time. Yes, this book is a romance book, but honestly, there was so much more happening between the covers that life, friendships, and family were in the forefront.
Thane, a man who struggles with social and sensory issues, is a smart tech mogul and billionaire who has just become guardian to his thirteen-year-old sister, Kara. Their lives have not been the best in regards to their father and their relationship with him. He has struggles but with the help of his best friend, Rafe, he navigates life differently. My heart broke for him when I read his internal talk and struggle but at the same time, I was angry with how his father treated him. Needing help with Kara, he turns to Single Dad Hotline and he focuses on Lottie, the inventor and owner of the company. Her life has been just as crazy and full of hurt because of her father. Yes, they ended up together but the journey was one of frustration, enlightenment, and realizations that just maybe the world is not black and white but it does have some gray areas with colour added in as well.
What I love the most was Thane's journey to be the man he knew Kara and Lottie needed. To see him grow as a man, friend, a father figure and lover was something beautiful to watch.
Throughout this amazing book, I laughed, held my breath and smiled so many times that my family kept looking at me. Thane and Lottie's story will live forever in my heart and one I will read over and over.
Thane, a man who struggles with social and sensory issues, is a smart tech mogul and billionaire who has just become guardian to his thirteen-year-old sister, Kara. Their lives have not been the best in regards to their father and their relationship with him. He has struggles but with the help of his best friend, Rafe, he navigates life differently. My heart broke for him when I read his internal talk and struggle but at the same time, I was angry with how his father treated him. Needing help with Kara, he turns to Single Dad Hotline and he focuses on Lottie, the inventor and owner of the company. Her life has been just as crazy and full of hurt because of her father. Yes, they ended up together but the journey was one of frustration, enlightenment, and realizations that just maybe the world is not black and white but it does have some gray areas with colour added in as well.
What I love the most was Thane's journey to be the man he knew Kara and Lottie needed. To see him grow as a man, friend, a father figure and lover was something beautiful to watch.
Throughout this amazing book, I laughed, held my breath and smiled so many times that my family kept looking at me. Thane and Lottie's story will live forever in my heart and one I will read over and over.
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