Between Floors

Valkyrie Brothers #2

by Bethany Maines

One broken elevator. Two polar opposites. Sometimes love gets stuck between floors.

Free-spirited Chloe Jordan returned to Seattle to face her past, but when she gets stuck in an elevator with grumpy Forest Valkyrie—the terminally stressed single dad who just rejected her as a nanny candidate—Chloe discovers that it's her future at stake. Forest, a construction magnate and real estate developer is desperate for a nanny—but Chloe, with her purple hair and unconventional ways, isn’t what he had in mind. Still, after a chance encounter and a surprising connection, Forest begrudgingly hires her to care for his young son, Olly. As Chloe brings her unique blend of heart and expertise to the job, Forest begins to see her not as the "weirdo" he once thought, but as someone he can trust—and maybe even love. But Chloe’s past is never far behind, and as family secrets, dangerous confrontations, and shocking revelations unfold, Forest and Chloe must decide if they can build a future together or if the weight of their pasts will tear them apart. Forest always wants safety, and Chloe always follows her heart, but unless the duo can learn to work together, Olly may not get the parents he deserves and Chloe and Forest may always be stuck between floors.

Between Floors—Book 2 of the Valkyrie Brothers Trilogy—is an action-packed, grumpy-sunshine, single dad romance, perfect for fans of Janet Evanovich, Charlaine Harris, or Ali Hazelwood. One-click this hilarious, unputdownable rom-com mystery today!

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 23, 2025

About the author

Bethany Maines, a native of Tacoma WA, is the award-winning author of action adventure tales that focus on women who know when to apply lipstick and when to apply a foot to someone’s hind end. When she’s not traveling to exotic lands, or kicking some serious butt with her black belt in karate, she can be found chasing after her daughter, or glued to the computer working on her next novel.

FB: www.facebook.com/AuthorBethanyMaines
INSTA: @AuthorBethanyMaines
TWIT: @BethanyMaines
WEB: www.bethanymaines.com

Reviews

[Stacey T · Rating 3 out of 5]

An opposites-attract romance filled with complex family dynamics and the journey to find inner peace. Chloe left her strict and abusive family to live overseas, but she has returned to seek closure and begin the next phase of her life, even though she is unsure of what that looks like. Her nanny interview didn’t go as planned, but when the single father seems desperate, she ends up with a job, a better place to stay, a cute little boy to care for, and a handsome dad she tries not to notice. Forest is struggling as a single father while trying to run his successful business. The nanny candidates he interviews are not meeting his expectations, particularly the one with purple hair. However, after getting stuck in an elevator with Chloe and seeing her in a new light, he makes a desperate decision and hires her as a temporary solution. Despite struggling with her quirky style and her lack of appropriate clothing, Forest is amazed by her calming presence for both him and his son, which causes his attraction toward her to grow. As their relationship heats up, Chloe’s abusive family resurfaces, threatening her safety as well as that of Forest and his son, Olly. It also jeopardizes Forest’s business. Will this be the end of their newfound romance, or can they communicate their wants and needs effectively to overcome these challenges?
This is the second book in the “Valkyrie Brothers” series, focusing on the middle brother, but the other brothers return as well. While I enjoyed the characters from the first book, I didn’t feel a strong connection between them in this installment. Even though I can see how they balance one another, it felt more convenient than genuine attraction, and the sexual chemistry was minimal. The story itself was engaging, particularly with the family drama, and it was nice to see the brothers deepen their bond through honest communication. Overall, it was an okay read, but not my favorite in the series. I’m looking forward to seeing how the next story unfolds. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just found a new must-read author!
Ms. Maines has combined humor, intrigue and romance in one captivating little package. And, I want more. I have already ordered the other two books in this series because I enjoyed this book so very much. If this entices you to read this book, you will not be disappointed. This is a well-written and executed rom-com. Love the plot and the characters were wonderful. Loved Olly! Forest learned not to judge a book by its cover. Speaking of which, loved this cover.
Forest Valkyrie is a financially wealthy single father who is struggling to find the perfect (emphasis on perfect) nanny for his rambunctious three-year-old son. On top of that Olly’s mother died young so he is determined to find a nanny who can handle him today and intuit how Olly is doing medically. When he interviews Chloe of the purple hair, he says sorry, not sorry. Then, they get stuck on the elevator together and he begins to panic. Chloe who has recently returned from a Buddhist nunnery, uses her zen-ways to calm Forest down. He’s smart enough to see nanny potential for at least the short term. What transpires next is wonderful and funny and sweet with just the right amount of steam.
I highly recommend this book for those readers who enjoy humor and intrigue with their rom-com. Lots of great characters. I wouldn’t mind being a friend-of-a-friend to this crew. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens. At least a five-star read!

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chloe left her strict and abusive family to live overseas, but she has returned to seek closure and begin the next phase of her life, even though she is unsure of what that looks like. Her nanny interview didn’t go as planned, but when the single father seems desperate, she ends up with a job, a better place to stay, a cute little boy to care for, and a handsome dad she tries not to notice.

Forest is struggling as a single father while trying to run his successful business. The nanny candidates he interviews are not meeting his expectations, particularly the one with purple hair. However, after getting stuck in an elevator with Chloe and seeing her in a new light, he makes a desperate decision and hires her as a temporary solution.

Despite struggling with her quirky style and her lack of appropriate clothing, Forest is amazed by her calming presence for both him and his son, which causes his attraction toward her to grow. As their relationship heats up, Chloe’s abusive family resurfaces, threatening her safety as well as that of Forest and his son, Olly. It also jeopardizes Forest’s business. Will this be the end of their newfound romance, or can they communicate their wants and needs effectively to overcome these challenges?

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.8/5

Plot: When you desperately need a nanny for your child, and all your so-called parameters of assessing their qualification gets challenged by meeting someone who doesn't fit those by any means.

Genre: Grumpy-Sunshine Romance, Single Dad Romance

Highlight:
+Character description
+Emotional Maturity and development
+Sensitivity to address serious matter

My experience: I am definitely in love with the way the depth of character have been woven. Pick any chapter and any page and when you read the conversation going on, you can definitely get a clear understanding of emotions felt by both FML & MML.

This one is definitely a must read for anyone who wants to understand writing with sensitivity, talking about topics with clarity and how crucial parenting is for children. This was genuinely portrayed here (like when use of creativity to engage the child to eat, using gender neutral words, etc.) in a realistic manner. This feels like an active effort to create awareness and understand the difference good parenting can make. ✨

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second Valkyrie brother's series. Chloe is back in Seattle trying to rebuild her life, but her looks, hair and straight talking doesn't help her cause. After leaving her family and then becoming a Buddhist Nun with purple hair she wasn't surprised to be rejected for the nanny position. Forest likes routine, order and his sons safety was the most important things to him. Now stuck in a lift with the woman he rejected isnt the best idea especially when the lift suddenly stops. On paper these two are complete opposites and definitely incompatible. But looking deeper there was a calmness that overtook when they're together. Chloe realises it's OK to be different, not being normal doesn't make her a bad person. Can she show Forest that how you dress isn't important it's the way you treat people that is. Will Forest be able to accept help from others and not be totally in control all the time. Will Chloe finally find the family she's always wanted. This is a story that proves not everything is what it seems, I can't wait for the next in the series

[Laure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chloe Jordan is a free spirit applying for the position of nanny for Forest Valkyrie's young son, Olly. He rejects her for the job, but when they get stuck together in an elevator he starts to see, that just maybe, she is what his son needs, purple hair and all. Forest will quickly realize that Chloe is exactly the perfect nanny for Olly, and that she is also perfect for him. Unfortunately, Chloe's past will catch up with her, and that just might be the thing that will end their developing relationship. Very exciting romance with plenty of humor, steam, surprising twists in the plot, and a happily ever after. I loved these characters and thought they were very realistic, and perfect for each other. Wonderful dynamics between the characters made this an engaging read that I couldn't put down. I absolutely adored little Olly and have to say that in my opinion the author was spot on when she wrote the little guys personality traits. I highly recommend this fantastic romance to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC received from Book Sirens.

[K.R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between Floors by Bethany Maines was the second installment of the Valkyrie brothers series. This one features Forest and Chloe, with our other characters from the first book and more of Forest’s son, Olly, to charm anyone. Chloe is quirky, calm, and just what Forest needs to mitigate the chaos within his life. As a single dad running a successful company, he needs a reliable nanny. Enter Chloe, whom he thinks is unqualified and the exact opposite of what he is looking for in his life and that of his son. As Chloe would say, this is exactly what the universe knew he would need though. I loved how the story unfolded; they both took things slow and let everything develop organically. Does that mean there isn’t drama and spice? Nope, but everything adds to the story and does not detract from the plot. I loved how the ending wrapped up, and it was a delightful HEA. I love Bethany’s writing and can’t wait for the next story!

[Kair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between Floors—Book 2 of the Valkyrie Brothers Trilogy by Bethany Maines, is a refreshingly different rom-com book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The book is set around the same time period of book 1 - Elevator ride and focuses on Forest Valkyrie relationship with his nanny Chloe Jordan. I definitely recommend you read book 1 prior to reading book 2. What I liked most about the book is that it focused a lot on Chloe and Forests personal growth and what they had to do to overcome abusive childhoods. I found the story line different form a typical rom-com and enjoyed Chloe's Buddhist insight on life. The book also has some funny banter between the brothers which I enjoyed. Between Floors is an easy read and surprisingly refreshing rom-com that I really enjoyed. I highly recommend it.

[Agnes Kaszian · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I liked the first book of this series, I have to admit that this one was even better.
This time, the main characters had more developed backstories. (I really appreciated how there was focus on Chloe's toxic and abusive family, how she realizes that the environment she grew up in is not normal, and then proceeds to give Olly the exact opposite treatment). We also got glimpses into mental health issues such as panic attacks, and explored Buddhism, which I thought was a very inclusive touch. Forest was very lovely and he always made his kid the main priority.
At the same time, what I didn't like, was that there wasn't any real action going on in the story, only some dramatic scenes sprinkled in here and there.

Thank you to Booksirens for giving me a free advanced copy of this book.

[Manjima (reads.n.escapes) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:

I received this ARC for free and am writing the review voluntarily.

I have read the first book of the series, "Elevator Ride" as well, and I liked the second book better! What stood out for me was the honesty part and how transparent Chloe's character has been shown and the bonding between Chloe and Olly, just love these two. About Forest, there's nothing more we can say, he's a gem of a person. The character arcs of this book were so well done and everything, especially the emotional bonding between all of them, the brothers and family love is shown in such a great way. I just loved this book every bit. I finished the book in about 24 hours so that should say a lot!!

Will be eagerly waiting for Ash's book!!

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in Maines' The Valkyrie Brothers series and I thought this was a great addition to the series. I would recommend reading book 1 (Elevator Ride) first. This book focus' on main characters Chloe Jordan and Forest Valkyrie. Forest is grumpy, stressed and a single dad who just nixed Chloe for a nanny job, but a chance encounter has him begrudgingly agreeing to allow her to care for his son. This book is a beautiful blend of action, humor and romance where our characters have the best of growth and learn so much about differences, family and so much more. I loved how Maines wraps everything into a perfect HEA for these two opposites and I can't wait for more in this series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab your tissues, your big drink, and your open heart …then settle in to read one of the best books of the year. ‘Between Floors’ is an amazing read from Bethany Maines. It literally grabs you from the first page and keeps you locked in until the very last word!

The storyline is both brilliant and painfully beautiful; the characters are delightfully serious yet quirky; the plot twists and turns are surprisingly well executed; and that darn evasive HEA literally makes your heart hurt—then the miracle happens…❤️❤️

I can’t encourage you enough to grab s copy of this book today! Even with all of the triggers, it belongs in your library! It’s too beautiful to pass up. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was absolutely blown away by it!) ❤️❤️
I

[Lisa Benison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complete Opposites with Humor, Heat, Romance Intrigue and an Adorable Toddler - Perfection!

I loved everything about this book - it was well written, slow build, had wonderful characters with depth - including the supporting characters- both real and found family, and Chloe and Forest together were just so much fun to read. Add in adorable toddler Ollie and watching Chloe find her way back to society after years in a buddhist nunnery(!) and from being raised by her awful family was just the icing on the cake. It is part of the Valkyrie brothers series which all overlap and while you don't need to read them all, I did go back and read the first one, and now I can't wait to read the next one - Enjoy!

I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Rachel E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Forest and Olly from book one, and liked "Elevator Ride" enough that I decided to read "Between Floors" and thought it was funnier than I expected. The brief mention of Chloe in Book 1 and the actually expanded version of Chloe in Book 2 is such a fun development; the same goes for Forest. I think we got more development than in book 1. I think Forest and Chloe fit so well. Really cute, super insightful and emotionally evolved read. Looking forward to rereading it sometime in the future.

I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing fabulous book!

I absolutely loved this story. Chloe was smart and funny. She was also incredibly centered. Forest was a bit rough and biased in the beginning but with Chloe he became such a wonderful loving accepting person. His three years old son was just adorable. All the characters (except for the few bad guys) were perfectly enjoyable and a joy to read about. The story dealt real life circumstances and tough situations with thoughtfulness and kindness. The love and respect among most of the characters would be the way that everyone should be treated. The romance wonderful and just a little spicy. Cannot recommend this book enough. It is definitely a must read.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this novel as an ARC.

What I really enjoyed about this novel was the unique main female character and how even though she was weird and did her own thing and was the nanny for the most 'normal' construction business owner the pairing was perfect and well done but it also didn't ask the characters to change themselves. Olly was an absolute joy of a toddler and the love and family essence within the book created a lovely cosy atmosphere. A wonderful read for in between books and during exams.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a charming rom com! There are some family abuse triggers, so be aware. But the overall message is one of loving families. There's the cutest darn kid and his need for a nanny starts the whole thing, but it's amazing what wisdom a young boy can exhibit. Great character development and the family abuse is handled fairly well with a character who is actively involved in a program for survivors.

A quick read that will give you all the romance feels you want.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forest is the second of the Valkyrie brothers, not as put together as Rowan, but more rigid regarding rules and emotions. When Chloe interviews for the nanny position, he is horrified at her purple hair. As we know, looks can be deceiving. I found myself grinning at the antics of Olly as well as some of the situations Forest found himself in. Chloe was definitely the glue for the future.
Despite the light-heartedness, I was troubled with all the blasphemy and that put a dampener to my enjoyment.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chole applied for a nanny position with Forest. Forest immediately rejects her because of her looks and her being threatening to the order he liked in his life. Then they get stuck in an elevator together. Where everything Forest thought he knew about himself and what he needed and wanted became questionable. This book is funny, sweet and I absolutely loved it. The banter, the characters being well written. It’s just a fantastic read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Suze82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

holding on

Who would have thought that something positive can evolve from being stuck in an elevator with the person that seems to be your polar opposite? Chloe and Forest surely carry around many burdens from their past so it takes a lot of convincing for both of them to find trust and give their feelings a chance to grow.
I liked the uplifting message that everybody is o.k. just the way they are and I was happy for Olly, Chloe and Forest when they finally grew into a happy patchwork family in the end.

[Annetra Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Valkyrie brothers series. I don’t think you necessarily need to read them in order for it to make sense. I think this was a cute rom com with mixes of family drama in it as well. The FMC got on my nerves terribly during this book. I get it she is different and a former Buddhist nun but just some things she said and did did not make sense. I do want to read the last book in the series though! Can’t wait to see how Bethany concludes the Valkyrie brothers stories.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series. This is one of those series that after you finish one you can’t wait for the next book. Book 2 is Forest and Chloe’s happily ever after, but it didn’t start out that way. Love the banter and the quirkiness between them. Forest was looking for a nanny for his son, Oliver. The purple haired, least qualified woman didn’t even get five minutes of his time. Desperate time call for desperate measures and he hired Chloe temporarily. Life was about to be turned upside down. Great series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barbara Lamb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The second in the Valkyrie series which always seems to involve at first and elevator
Chloe is most definitely an interesting character although the reasons why are extremely emotional
Forest, the middle brother who seems to need to control everything
Both are so opposite yet make a quirky cute story along the way
I feel like some spicy scenes were more of a closed door type

[Shanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between Floors was a sweet read. At first I wasn't sure I liked the male main character, Forrest, but I quickly came to love Chloe and Forrest's story.

There was spice, but it wasn't graphic (though not closed door either).

Overall, I really enjoyed Between Floors and look forward to Ash's story.

I received a free ARC from Booksirens and an leaving a voluntary review. Thank you Booksirens!

[Judy Herriman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book late in the evening & finished around 3AM! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. What a different personality as a female lead character; so entertaining & actually inspiring in some aspects. Thought the story plot follows similar 'love stories', the character development makes the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this author's writing & recommend this book.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forest is not coping well with all his responsibilities and taking care of Oliver he needs a nanny for yesterday and he'll hire the most unexpected one. Chloe is a free-spirit woman with a difficult past that made her leave her home and family and become a wanderer and a Buddist nun and now she is back in Seattle. Oliver will be the glue to tie them together. Cute, well-written and easy-to-read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Genoveva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grumpy Sunshine romance. Yes please!! The way that Chloe and Forest meet had me giggling a little. I really enjoyed Chloe's character really had me drawn to this story. Her relationship with Forest's son was OMG totally adorable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very entertaining and well-written brother saga. Driven Forest Valkyrie hires the nanny he never knew he needed- purple hair and all. Segues beautifully with his older brother’s book, Elevator Ride. I anticipate with delight the third book in the series, Emergency Exit. I thank BookSirens and the author for the ARC of this book, but as always, all opinions are my own.

[Linley Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great romance in the trilogy. Love how some take a while to see what’s right in front of them but it makes for an interesting romance. I really enjoyed, was feel good and nothing better than feeling good while reading a romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Meghan Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Chloe and Forest was such a cute Rom Com. It was a book I devoured on a weekend afternoon. The adorableness of Ollie and the backstory of Chloe had me hooked from the start. I mean who doesn't love a single dad nanny story?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.