What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sterling Brothers #2
Forbidden Kisses: The Sterling Brothers, Book 2
Billion-dollar CEO and single dad needs a nanny—fast!
When I'm not making waffles for my son Jeremy or teaching him how to swim, I’m running a billion-dollar business. My life is scheduled to the minute. So, when the nanny unexpectedly quits, I need a replacement.
Riley is not what I expected. She just graduated law school and wants a summer job before starting her legal career. My son Jeremy instantly likes her—she makes him laugh until his cheeks hurt. Hell, she makes me feel carefree too, and I haven’t let my guard down ever since Jeremy’s mom left.
I’m so attracted to Riley that I can’t even think straight. It’s not just her incredible curves that drive me crazy; I genuinely like her. She’s a lot like driven and focused, but also protective of her family, especially her little sister.
But Riley is only with us for the summer. Besides, I’m a single dad with a lot of responsibilities. Holding her back would be selfish—falling for her would be reckless. I can’t keep her. She’s young, barely starting her career.
But the more time we spend together, the harder it is to ignore that Riley isn’t just perfect for Jeremy—she’s perfect for me too.
When I'm not making waffles for my son Jeremy or teaching him how to swim, I’m running a billion-dollar business. My life is scheduled to the minute. So, when the nanny unexpectedly quits, I need a replacement.
Riley is not what I expected. She just graduated law school and wants a summer job before starting her legal career. My son Jeremy instantly likes her—she makes him laugh until his cheeks hurt. Hell, she makes me feel carefree too, and I haven’t let my guard down ever since Jeremy’s mom left.
I’m so attracted to Riley that I can’t even think straight. It’s not just her incredible curves that drive me crazy; I genuinely like her. She’s a lot like driven and focused, but also protective of her family, especially her little sister.
But Riley is only with us for the summer. Besides, I’m a single dad with a lot of responsibilities. Holding her back would be selfish—falling for her would be reckless. I can’t keep her. She’s young, barely starting her career.
But the more time we spend together, the harder it is to ignore that Riley isn’t just perfect for Jeremy—she’s perfect for me too.
Audible Audio
Published July 9, 2025
589 people are currently reading
2256 people want to read
About the author
Layla Hagen
75 books4,645 followersWelcome! My name is Layla Hagen and I am a Contemporary Romance author.
I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.
I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.
And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough ;)
I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.
I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.
And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough ;)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
October 26, 2025
This story follows Riley, who is waiting for her bar exam results before starting a job as a lawyer. Due to student debt and a desire to get on top of her finances, she decides to take a three-month nannying job. She’s always wanted to be a teacher and work with kids, so it feels like the perfect opportunity. But what happens when she starts falling for the single dad only to find out he’s falling even harder?
This story was great. I loved Riley and how sweet, compassionate, and caring she is toward Jeremy. She’s always looking out for her younger sister and has an immediate connection with the MMC, Duncan. Duncan will do anything for his family and is very protective of Riley. I also loved his whole family they were warm, welcoming, and inviting.
I just want to mention that the audiobook was brilliant, but the story was quite fast-paced, so it went by really quickly. For me, the story didn’t particularly stand out, and I feel these are characters I’ll likely forget. That said, it was still an enjoyable read, and I did have a good time with it.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 21mins
Narrators: CJ Bloom and Sean Masters - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Book Two In The Sterling Brothers Series.
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Single Dad, Nanny, Age Gap (9yrs), Protective MMC, Jealousy, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk and Praise.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
This story was great. I loved Riley and how sweet, compassionate, and caring she is toward Jeremy. She’s always looking out for her younger sister and has an immediate connection with the MMC, Duncan. Duncan will do anything for his family and is very protective of Riley. I also loved his whole family they were warm, welcoming, and inviting.
I just want to mention that the audiobook was brilliant, but the story was quite fast-paced, so it went by really quickly. For me, the story didn’t particularly stand out, and I feel these are characters I’ll likely forget. That said, it was still an enjoyable read, and I did have a good time with it.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 21mins
Narrators: CJ Bloom and Sean Masters - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Book Two In The Sterling Brothers Series.
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Single Dad, Nanny, Age Gap (9yrs), Protective MMC, Jealousy, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk and Praise.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
August 1, 2025
🎧📚AUDIO & EBOOK REVIEW📚🎧
It was only last year (2024) that I started listening/reading Layla Hagen, and it has been an absolute pleasure! I really like her style! I’ve only gotten thru her LeBlanc series but I know just from those stories that we are going to click!
Being an ARC reader/blogger sometimes doesn’t afford me a lot of “extra” time to indulge in stories that are not, what I refer to, “the here and now” (lol) so I tried to get in Stolen Kisses before I listened to Forbidden Kisses but the odds were not in my favor BUT hopefully/maybe by next week! Anywho, even though I am a huge proponent of reading series in order and not all willy-nilly, I did it, and I didn’t feel like I was “missing something” at any point. So, there’s that! :)
It's nice to get lost in a story that isn’t rattled with conflict and dramatics and that’s what Layla delivers. Sure, there are hurdles, but what journey doesn’t have some of those, fictional or not? It’s when adults stop adulting and dramatics are thrown into a story just for drama’s sake that makes me twitchy, and it just doesn’t happen with Duncan & Riley and Jeremy! *heart eyes* I enjoyed the growth of the relationship because it was organic. I enjoyed the growth of the storyline because it was realistic. I enjoyed the “family energy” from both Duncan’s side and Riley’s side because they were fun and humorous and warmed my heart. The entire story, from the very beginning, put a huge smile on my face!
I also could not have asked for a better narrating team than Sean Masters & CJ Bloom. Sean can take a minute to get used to (for me that is) but not this time. I loved his performance from the very beginning, and he embarrassed the “grumpy growly” Duncan fully and perfectly. CJ has never let me down when I’ve listened to her performances, and this time was no different.
It was only last year (2024) that I started listening/reading Layla Hagen, and it has been an absolute pleasure! I really like her style! I’ve only gotten thru her LeBlanc series but I know just from those stories that we are going to click!
Being an ARC reader/blogger sometimes doesn’t afford me a lot of “extra” time to indulge in stories that are not, what I refer to, “the here and now” (lol) so I tried to get in Stolen Kisses before I listened to Forbidden Kisses but the odds were not in my favor BUT hopefully/maybe by next week! Anywho, even though I am a huge proponent of reading series in order and not all willy-nilly, I did it, and I didn’t feel like I was “missing something” at any point. So, there’s that! :)
It's nice to get lost in a story that isn’t rattled with conflict and dramatics and that’s what Layla delivers. Sure, there are hurdles, but what journey doesn’t have some of those, fictional or not? It’s when adults stop adulting and dramatics are thrown into a story just for drama’s sake that makes me twitchy, and it just doesn’t happen with Duncan & Riley and Jeremy! *heart eyes* I enjoyed the growth of the relationship because it was organic. I enjoyed the growth of the storyline because it was realistic. I enjoyed the “family energy” from both Duncan’s side and Riley’s side because they were fun and humorous and warmed my heart. The entire story, from the very beginning, put a huge smile on my face!
I also could not have asked for a better narrating team than Sean Masters & CJ Bloom. Sean can take a minute to get used to (for me that is) but not this time. I loved his performance from the very beginning, and he embarrassed the “grumpy growly” Duncan fully and perfectly. CJ has never let me down when I’ve listened to her performances, and this time was no different.
July 25, 2025
5 Star Review Forbidden Kisses (The Sterling Brothers #2) by Layla Hagen
This is Duncan Sterling and nanny Riley’s story and was a wonderful read. I love single parent stories and this was an excellent example of the genre.
Forbidden Kisses is one of my favourite reads from Layla Hagen and that is saying something as I love her style of writing.
The Sterling family had me laughing out loud so many times. I love their dynamic, and that only adds to the story.
I fell hard and fast for Duncan, he is my idea of a book boyfriend and Riley is someone I would happily call a friend.
The relationship that she forms with Duncan’s son Jeremy was truly heartwarming.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship and the love that all found together.
This is Duncan Sterling and nanny Riley’s story and was a wonderful read. I love single parent stories and this was an excellent example of the genre.
Forbidden Kisses is one of my favourite reads from Layla Hagen and that is saying something as I love her style of writing.
The Sterling family had me laughing out loud so many times. I love their dynamic, and that only adds to the story.
I fell hard and fast for Duncan, he is my idea of a book boyfriend and Riley is someone I would happily call a friend.
The relationship that she forms with Duncan’s son Jeremy was truly heartwarming.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship and the love that all found together.
August 11, 2025
This book was flat. There was no chemistry, spark, conflict, feelings, or anything really. The main characters are dull. The storyline is bland. This wasn’t a hate read, so I won’t rank with 1⭐️. But it definitely is not worth it.
Side note. This kid sounds like he is way younger than 10. Like a 6 or 7 year masquerading as almost a pre-teen
Side note. This kid sounds like he is way younger than 10. Like a 6 or 7 year masquerading as almost a pre-teen
July 10, 2025
Forbidden Kisses
Sterling Brothers #2
Layla Hagen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolute perfection! I’ve read A LOT of boss/ nanny stories, but I think this one might just be me absolute favourite! Who would have thought finding a nanny for his son could be so much fun. Duncan Sterling is a man of little words, so finding a new nanny for his gorgeous 10 yr old son, Jeremy was always going to be a journey, he never imagined a gorgeous woman looking for a short-term job would not only fix his issue with his son on short notice, but would turn his world upside down.
Suddenly the man who works to much is finding himself home early, he discovers a new happiness in his son's eyes… but it’s the happiness in himself that flatters and startles himself.
Riley is so close to becoming a lawyer, but finds herself in need of a job in the short term. Finding herself in front of Adonis with the job to solve all of her problems is perfection. She finds herself loving the little boy with the spider man and zoo obsession. He brings a light to Riley’s world she never knew she needed. But it’s Jeremy’s father who really spins her world, their attraction is undeniable trying hard to ignore it only makes it worse.
Giving into temptation Riley and Duncan find a relationship so beautiful and built on the love of child made my ovaries sing 😂. When the chemistry between Jeremy and Riley is beyond fun and babysitting, Duncan finds that his super structured life is need of a shake up for the better, that shake up comes in the form of a stunning 24yr old.
Sterling Brothers #2
Layla Hagen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolute perfection! I’ve read A LOT of boss/ nanny stories, but I think this one might just be me absolute favourite! Who would have thought finding a nanny for his son could be so much fun. Duncan Sterling is a man of little words, so finding a new nanny for his gorgeous 10 yr old son, Jeremy was always going to be a journey, he never imagined a gorgeous woman looking for a short-term job would not only fix his issue with his son on short notice, but would turn his world upside down.
Suddenly the man who works to much is finding himself home early, he discovers a new happiness in his son's eyes… but it’s the happiness in himself that flatters and startles himself.
Riley is so close to becoming a lawyer, but finds herself in need of a job in the short term. Finding herself in front of Adonis with the job to solve all of her problems is perfection. She finds herself loving the little boy with the spider man and zoo obsession. He brings a light to Riley’s world she never knew she needed. But it’s Jeremy’s father who really spins her world, their attraction is undeniable trying hard to ignore it only makes it worse.
Giving into temptation Riley and Duncan find a relationship so beautiful and built on the love of child made my ovaries sing 😂. When the chemistry between Jeremy and Riley is beyond fun and babysitting, Duncan finds that his super structured life is need of a shake up for the better, that shake up comes in the form of a stunning 24yr old.
Read
August 1, 2025A fun read, I enjoyed the boss/nanny storyline, the changes in Duncan, and the Sterling Family.
Duncan needs a nanny for his 10 year old son, Riley needs a short term job. The result of his hiring Riley, would turn his world upside down. The two have an attraction, but it is the changes Duncan begins to make, that brings happiness to their family. The man who works too much, finds himself home at a reasonable hour, much to the delight of his son, and the attraction that builds between him and his nanny. As Riley finds herself loving her charge, and him adding a piece to her life she does not know she needs.
As temptation lingers, and the love of the son, Jeremy, brings them closer, the structure Duncan has built, begins to crumble.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Duncan needs a nanny for his 10 year old son, Riley needs a short term job. The result of his hiring Riley, would turn his world upside down. The two have an attraction, but it is the changes Duncan begins to make, that brings happiness to their family. The man who works too much, finds himself home at a reasonable hour, much to the delight of his son, and the attraction that builds between him and his nanny. As Riley finds herself loving her charge, and him adding a piece to her life she does not know she needs.
As temptation lingers, and the love of the son, Jeremy, brings them closer, the structure Duncan has built, begins to crumble.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
August 1, 2025
I just love me a single dad story and I definitely wasn’t disappointed with Forbidden Kisses. Duncan is a single father to Jeremy and when he needs a nanny, Riley applies for and gets the position. She’s waiting to see if she passes the bar exam, so can start her job with Jackson & Sons. That’s four months away, so the nanny position is great for her. The chemistry between these two is smoking, but Duncan fights it until he can’t. If you enjoy family, steam, and enjoyable characters, grab your copy and see what happens in this fantastic book.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 9, 2025
cute single dad + nanny romance!
🩵 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐝 + 𝐍𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐲
🩵 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 charming story follows Riley, a young lawyer in search of a job while waiting for the bar exam results. She unexpectedly lands a job as a nanny for a handsome single father and his adorable son.
𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 the romance between Riley and Duncan unfold was sweet. Their connection was natural, and Riley's bond with Jeremy, Duncan's son, was heartwarming. Together, they created a cute little family.
🎧The cherry on top was the story's dual narration by 𝐂𝐉 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦 and 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬. Their performances were perfect!
𝐈𝐟 you're looking for a single dad + nanny romance, "𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐊𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬" is the perfect choice. Thank you to 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐧 and 𝐌𝐋𝐀 for providing this audio copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝟒.𝟐𝟓 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫: 𝟐.𝟓/𝟓 🔥𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝟒.𝟓🎧
🩵 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐝 + 𝐍𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐲
🩵 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 charming story follows Riley, a young lawyer in search of a job while waiting for the bar exam results. She unexpectedly lands a job as a nanny for a handsome single father and his adorable son.
𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 the romance between Riley and Duncan unfold was sweet. Their connection was natural, and Riley's bond with Jeremy, Duncan's son, was heartwarming. Together, they created a cute little family.
🎧The cherry on top was the story's dual narration by 𝐂𝐉 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦 and 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬. Their performances were perfect!
𝐈𝐟 you're looking for a single dad + nanny romance, "𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐊𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬" is the perfect choice. Thank you to 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐧 and 𝐌𝐋𝐀 for providing this audio copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝟒.𝟐𝟓 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫: 𝟐.𝟓/𝟓 🔥𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝟒.𝟓🎧
August 3, 2025
This book is just another example of why I've been reading her work since she's been writing. I absolutely love her romances. They get better and better.
My thoughts:
💋Duncan Sterling is a single father to a sweet little 10 year old boy. His older nanny has to leave unexpectedly one day and he's forced to find a new interim nanny.
Rylie has just secured a job as a lawyer now she just needs to pass the bar. Now she's looking for an interim job for the summer. She sees an ad for a nanny that sounds awesome even though she has no experience.
💋The two meet at a coffee shop for the interview and there is immediate attraction. Duncan is shocked as she is 24 and 9 years younger than him but he finds her very pretty. He ends up hiring her because she is kind and really makes him believe that she would be a great nanny. However, The more he sees her the more he finds it hard to deny the attraction he's feeling despite the obstacles in their way. It's the same for Rylie.
💋This book was such a perfect mix of age gap, forbidden romance, single dad, humor and two characters that really belong together that I couldn't stop reading and smiling. Laylay Hagan's books get better and better with every one she writes.
My thoughts:
💋Duncan Sterling is a single father to a sweet little 10 year old boy. His older nanny has to leave unexpectedly one day and he's forced to find a new interim nanny.
Rylie has just secured a job as a lawyer now she just needs to pass the bar. Now she's looking for an interim job for the summer. She sees an ad for a nanny that sounds awesome even though she has no experience.
💋The two meet at a coffee shop for the interview and there is immediate attraction. Duncan is shocked as she is 24 and 9 years younger than him but he finds her very pretty. He ends up hiring her because she is kind and really makes him believe that she would be a great nanny. However, The more he sees her the more he finds it hard to deny the attraction he's feeling despite the obstacles in their way. It's the same for Rylie.
💋This book was such a perfect mix of age gap, forbidden romance, single dad, humor and two characters that really belong together that I couldn't stop reading and smiling. Laylay Hagan's books get better and better with every one she writes.
August 1, 2025
I enjoyed my time with these characters.
It’s easy to see the attraction between Riley and Duncan, and I liked seeing how they enhanced eachother, and the life of Duncan's son Jeremy.
This was easy to read and connect with, and I recommend this read and author.
I received an ARC (thank you) and voluntarily leave my thoughts.
It’s easy to see the attraction between Riley and Duncan, and I liked seeing how they enhanced eachother, and the life of Duncan's son Jeremy.
This was easy to read and connect with, and I recommend this read and author.
I received an ARC (thank you) and voluntarily leave my thoughts.
August 3, 2025
Amazon / Audible
While Riley's awaiting her Bar Exam test results and the start of her career in law, she needs a job to tide her over. Enter Duncan Sterling and his adorable son, Jeremy. They need a nanny while theirs permanent nanny takes care of her mom. It's a match made in heaven because Riley and Jeremy bond instantly. But what of the sparks flying between her and Duncan?
Duncan absolutely cannot give into the pull he feels to his son's new nanny, Riley. Not only is he her older boss, but she's not going to be with them for longer than just the summer. The last thing he wants to do is break all the hearts getting involved with someone who isn't going to be around permanently.
Riley and Duncan are so sweet! And with Jeremy, even sweeter. I love single parent romances, especially when the parent is as amazing as Duncan is. But once Riley comes into their lives, they become an even stronger family, she was the piece they didn't know they needed. Riley and Duncan's chemistry is smokin' hot, and their emotional connection soon becomes even stronger than their physical one. Duncan has a big, loving family around for support, love and of course shenanigans that only families can get up to. They're all so entertaining - I'm grinning just thinking of all their stories next.
ARC provided by Wordsmith Publicity for an honest review.
Review Tour: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub | StoryGraph | Linktree
July 28, 2025
Layla Hagen has done it again! I absolutely LOVED Forbidden Kisses! It is the second book in her The Sterling Brothers series; Forbidden Kisses is a wonderful love story an age gap/single father love story. I was hooked from the first few pages, and I loved every moment on every page of Forbidden Kisses it was impossible to put down. Layla Hagen definitely did not disappoint her readers with Forbidden Kisses and has once again delivered an incredible story filled with everything that I love in sizzling romance stories. I have discovered that whatever Layla Hagen writes, I will love to read. Who does not love hot sexy men, who make you swoon, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another, and wonderful characters? Forbidden Kisses is the love story of Duncan Sterling, CEO of Sterling Investments, successful brokerage ad financial services company and single father to ten-year-old, Spiderman loving, Jeremy, and Riley, recent law school graduate. Duncan is in search of a new temporary nanny for Jeremy. His current nanny, Maggie, needs to take care of her mother for several months. Jackman and Sons made Riley an offer, but delayed her start date for four months, so she is in search of a temporary job while she awaits the results of her bar exam. Riley gets the job as Jeremy’s nanny. I love the relationship between Riley and Jeremy, especially the trip to the zoo after the baby zebra was born. Duncan is interested in Riley, but he does not do relationships or want to get involved with his son’s nanny. He is also concerned about their age gap and how he perceives Riley’s immaturity. Things change between Riley and Duncan as they spend time together. Duncan and his brothers help renovate the general store that they recently purchased for their parents. I love Riley’s relationships with Duncan’s brothers. Conversation between Riley and Duncan flows so easily, with innuendos and playful banter, and Duncan constantly flirting and dirty talking to Riley. The heart-to-heart conversations that take place in Forbidden Kisses are one of my favorite parts of the book, especially the dreams that Riley shares regarding the futures she plans for her mother, and her younger sister, Paula. I love Riley and Duncan’s love story, and all the plot twists and surprises that changes things for Duncan and Riley, their relationship, and how things quickly heat up. Their relationship is put to the test when Riley starts her new job. I love everything that Duncan does for Riley, especially how he helps with issue regarding her sister. Duncan and Riley are willing to make changes in their lives to have a life with one another, because of their love for one another. I love the text stream between Riley and Duncan and Duncan and his brothers, it is one of my favorite parts of the story. I love the perfect ending of Riley and Duncan’s love story, with my favorite part of the story Duncan’s proposal to Riley. I love the epilogue and how it hints to the identity of the next Sterling brother to fall in love. Layla Hagen always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. Not sure how she does it, but Layla Hagen has once again given her readers another amazing book. She has once again proven that she is an amazing storyteller and continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. I really enjoy how she writes her stories in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love knowing what the main characters are thinking and feeling. Forbidden Kisses is filled with all those elements that I have come to love and expect in a Layla Hagen love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments and the plot twists and surprises that filled this page turner. Layla Hagen creates such wonderful and memorable characters and has once again done this in Forbidden Kisses. I love Riley and Duncan’s story and the descriptions of the California setting, the characters, and the family dynamic in Forbidden Kisses, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoy all the interactions among the Sterling brothers; it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love Riley’s relationship with her best friends, Julia and Christine. I loved catching up with Chase and Hannah. I highly recommend this sizzling romance. I cannot wait to read the other Sterling brothers’ books. Highly recommend this incredible love story. Received an advanced copy from the author.
August 7, 2025
Every time I’ve finished a Sterling Brothers book, I can’t help but feel like something has been missing. The books have been really slow moving, and not in a slow burn kind of way. It’s been crawling and lazily moving along. I’m not saying the book is lazy but it’s been taking a long time to get going and to finish. While Duncan realizes his feelings for Riley pretty soon into the book, it took longer for him to make his move and I guess I wish it didn’t. I wanted this undeniable, irrevocable attraction that you just can’t hold back and need the other person like air. I felt like this book tried to do that but it fell slightly short. There was a lot of dancing around and unsure of how to proceed moments between Riley and Duncan. I get they had to think about Jeremy and how it would make him feel but sometimes when you have a kid involved the passion and intensity tends to not be as present because you’re trying to hide how you feel about the other person without giving anything away. I get that with Jeremy, Duncan wants to ease him into the idea of him dating and having a woman around and how the vibe needs to get felt out. In this case though, I think Jeremy would have been more than happy knowing Duncan was with Riley based on how they got along and acted with each other. He was on board with Riley being with his dad and even straight up asks Riley to be his mom. While that was a really sweet moment between Riley and Jeremy, I felt she was put in an uncomfortable situation because she didn’t know where her and Duncan stood or what would be appropriate to say to him. I feel like this conversation needed to happen the moment Riley and Duncan became serious but then I guess that would have made this book shorter and would have been an unsatisfying story. We all want to see the hero and heroine together and overcome odds and doubts while coming to terms with what they want and what means the most to them. Without these details, you get an unfulfilled story that essentially stops and goes nowhere unless the author really messes up the book and comes up with plots and situations that go nowhere and I’ve read books that did that. Anyway, while this book had cute moments, was a feel good story and I liked the trope and concept, I felt like it moved a bit slow for me. I struggled to get fully immersed in the story and that’s why it took me a bit longer to get through it so I end it with a 4. It was better than a 3, but didn’t blow me away. I just wanted more for this one, on top of what she actually did for the story because it seems like she also made the sex scenes with a different vibe and I feel like I didn’t get the same with them unlike the first book, but this is a good thing. In the first book, it felt like they were doing the same things in bed and got boring after a while. With this one, the scenes felt more fresh and exciting. While the sneek peek wasn’t included at the end for Gryffin’s book, I feel like it could potentially have more going on, especially with the way he keeps showing up in the tabloids. It will be interesting to see what she does with it.
August 28, 2025
Forbidden Kisses is book two in Layla Hagen’s The Sterling Brothers series. Unlike the first installment, this one fell flat.
Duncan finds himself in a bind when his long-time nanny takes a three-month leave to care for her ailing mother. Riley, having just completed her bar exam, already has a job lined up—but with a three-month wait for her results, she needs interim work. She applies to Duncan’s job posting and is hired. There’s an immediate attraction between them, and Riley quickly bonds with Duncan’s son, Jeremy. As time passes, Duncan and Riley struggle to resist their growing feelings and eventually give in. However, Duncan is hesitant to introduce a romantic partner into Jeremy’s life, wanting to preserve a stable home environment. He’s also uneasy about the ten-year age gap between him and Riley.
I’m not a fan of the nanny, single dad, or age-gap tropes, but I gave this one a shot after enjoying book one. While I appreciate Layla Hagen’s signature style—low angst, minimal drama, and no third-act breakup—this story, unfortunately, lacked momentum. The female lead in book one had spark and personality, and there was at least some tension between the main characters. Riley, by contrast, felt bland—overly mellow, sweet, and accommodating to the point of passivity. Duncan didn’t fare much better. His devotion to his son, while admirable, rendered him dull and one-dimensional, with Jeremy as his only focus outside of work.
As for Jeremy… I couldn’t believe he was supposed to be ten years old. He was written more like a four- or five-year-old. A ten-year-old crying over toys and a magical pillow didn’t ring true, and his vocabulary and behavior felt far too juvenile for his age.
The timeline of Duncan’s single-dad status also raised questions. In one monologue, he reflects on how difficult the past three years have been as a single father, suggesting he and Jeremy’s mother split three years ago. But later, it’s revealed their relationship only lasted a year. So what happened in the other eight or nine years? And with Duncan claiming he’s been single for a decade and refusing to bring a woman home, I couldn’t help but wonder: was he celibate that entire time? Nothing about other women—other than Jeremy’s mom—were mentioned.
Both Duncan and Riley lacked depth, with minimal backstory or development to flesh them out. The absence of conflict and emotional tension didn’t serve this story well. Unfortunately, this one earns a 2-star rating from me.
Duncan finds himself in a bind when his long-time nanny takes a three-month leave to care for her ailing mother. Riley, having just completed her bar exam, already has a job lined up—but with a three-month wait for her results, she needs interim work. She applies to Duncan’s job posting and is hired. There’s an immediate attraction between them, and Riley quickly bonds with Duncan’s son, Jeremy. As time passes, Duncan and Riley struggle to resist their growing feelings and eventually give in. However, Duncan is hesitant to introduce a romantic partner into Jeremy’s life, wanting to preserve a stable home environment. He’s also uneasy about the ten-year age gap between him and Riley.
I’m not a fan of the nanny, single dad, or age-gap tropes, but I gave this one a shot after enjoying book one. While I appreciate Layla Hagen’s signature style—low angst, minimal drama, and no third-act breakup—this story, unfortunately, lacked momentum. The female lead in book one had spark and personality, and there was at least some tension between the main characters. Riley, by contrast, felt bland—overly mellow, sweet, and accommodating to the point of passivity. Duncan didn’t fare much better. His devotion to his son, while admirable, rendered him dull and one-dimensional, with Jeremy as his only focus outside of work.
As for Jeremy… I couldn’t believe he was supposed to be ten years old. He was written more like a four- or five-year-old. A ten-year-old crying over toys and a magical pillow didn’t ring true, and his vocabulary and behavior felt far too juvenile for his age.
The timeline of Duncan’s single-dad status also raised questions. In one monologue, he reflects on how difficult the past three years have been as a single father, suggesting he and Jeremy’s mother split three years ago. But later, it’s revealed their relationship only lasted a year. So what happened in the other eight or nine years? And with Duncan claiming he’s been single for a decade and refusing to bring a woman home, I couldn’t help but wonder: was he celibate that entire time? Nothing about other women—other than Jeremy’s mom—were mentioned.
Both Duncan and Riley lacked depth, with minimal backstory or development to flesh them out. The absence of conflict and emotional tension didn’t serve this story well. Unfortunately, this one earns a 2-star rating from me.
August 1, 2025
5 She Makes Him Break All His Own Rules Stars!!
I love all the books that Layla Hagen writes because she creates these amazing families that I would definitely want to be a member of. The Sterling Brothers all have their own idiosyncrasies and with this second book in this series, we get to know Duncan and his great little boy Jeremy so much better. What made this story that much more for me was being able to listen to Sean Masters and CJ Bloom bring Ms. Hagen’s words to life. I’m a huge fan of both these narrators and they do a fabulous job with Duncan, Riley, Jeremy and all the secondary characters.
When Jeremy’s Nanny needs to leave for a few months, Duncan finds himself in the position of having to find a new Nanny very quickly which doesn’t sit well with him because he’s a man that lives by a schedule. What he didn’t expect when he placed the ad for a Nanny was Riley. A young woman almost 10 years younger than him, at a different place in her life, she’s getting ready to start her first job out of law school and so beautiful he doesn’t know what to do with himself.
The connection between Riley and Jeremy had my heart smiling. This little boy is filled with so much love. He’s surrounded by it between his Dad, his Uncles and Grandparents so Riley is almost like the cherry on top of a sundae. She truly takes the time to get to know Jeremy and builds their days around activities that are both fun and a little educational. But the day Duncan joins them at the pool is the day everything changes for Riley and Duncan. The chemistry between them bursts into a flame that so hot that it just can’t be ignored any longer.
What proceeds is them having sexy times that had me fanning myself, spending time together that leads to them realizing that they could have so much more, but how they navigate that is the question. Can they find a way to have everything they both want? What does them dating mean to Jeremy? Will one of them have to give more than the other? All of these questions are answered when you read and/or listen to this amazing book.
I love all the books that Layla Hagen writes because she creates these amazing families that I would definitely want to be a member of. The Sterling Brothers all have their own idiosyncrasies and with this second book in this series, we get to know Duncan and his great little boy Jeremy so much better. What made this story that much more for me was being able to listen to Sean Masters and CJ Bloom bring Ms. Hagen’s words to life. I’m a huge fan of both these narrators and they do a fabulous job with Duncan, Riley, Jeremy and all the secondary characters.
When Jeremy’s Nanny needs to leave for a few months, Duncan finds himself in the position of having to find a new Nanny very quickly which doesn’t sit well with him because he’s a man that lives by a schedule. What he didn’t expect when he placed the ad for a Nanny was Riley. A young woman almost 10 years younger than him, at a different place in her life, she’s getting ready to start her first job out of law school and so beautiful he doesn’t know what to do with himself.
The connection between Riley and Jeremy had my heart smiling. This little boy is filled with so much love. He’s surrounded by it between his Dad, his Uncles and Grandparents so Riley is almost like the cherry on top of a sundae. She truly takes the time to get to know Jeremy and builds their days around activities that are both fun and a little educational. But the day Duncan joins them at the pool is the day everything changes for Riley and Duncan. The chemistry between them bursts into a flame that so hot that it just can’t be ignored any longer.
What proceeds is them having sexy times that had me fanning myself, spending time together that leads to them realizing that they could have so much more, but how they navigate that is the question. Can they find a way to have everything they both want? What does them dating mean to Jeremy? Will one of them have to give more than the other? All of these questions are answered when you read and/or listen to this amazing book.
September 7, 2025
⭐️ Story: 2.5/5
🔥 Spice: 1.5/5
🎧 Narration: 5/5
I picked this up as a nice little palate cleanser after a fantasy romance that had me in a chokehold (still screaming because book 3 isn’t out yet). This is definitely a sweet story, but let’s be honest—there is zero plot. If you’re here for fluff, vibes, and nothing but the relationship, this is your book. If you want twists, turns, or any kind of depth… keep it moving
But let’s talk. First red flag: Craigslist. CRAIGSLIST?? In 2025??? I had to pause, clutch my pearls, and double-check the publication date. A billionaire businessman posting a nanny position on Craigslist like he’s trying to sell an old futon? My guy, it’s called Indeed. Or literally any real hiring platform. Nooo. 🚩🚩
Now the bio mom. Whew. She abandons ship, gives the dad custody, jets off to Ireland, calls daily, sees her son two weeks a year, and parades random boyfriends in front of him. Meanwhile, the kid is begging for his nanny to be his mom and everyone’s just like “oh that’s cute” instead of addressing the screaming elephant in the room. WHERE is the conflict? WHERE is the tension? Even if this were reversed — say bio dad peaced out while bio mom raised the kid — I’d still be mad about how weirdly chill everyone was. It’s not even about mom vs. stepmom drama, it’s about the sheer lack of human reaction to a kid practically begging for a parent who actually shows up. The potential for depth? Huge. The execution? Flat.
This could’ve had some real emotional layers if the author dug into the messiness — resentment, guilt, loyalty conflicts, something. Instead it was fluff on fluff on fluff. Which, fine, sometimes you want that. But for me? It felt too sanitized.
So yeah — if you want a zero-conflict, toothache-sweet, pure fluff romance, this will scratch that itch. But if you’re like me and need even a sprinkle of realism or emotional tension… prepare to side-eye your audiobook.
I picked this up as a nice little palate cleanser after a fantasy romance that had me in a chokehold (still screaming because book 3 isn’t out yet). This is definitely a sweet story, but let’s be honest—there is zero plot. If you’re here for fluff, vibes, and nothing but the relationship, this is your book. If you want twists, turns, or any kind of depth… keep it moving
But let’s talk. First red flag: Craigslist. CRAIGSLIST?? In 2025??? I had to pause, clutch my pearls, and double-check the publication date. A billionaire businessman posting a nanny position on Craigslist like he’s trying to sell an old futon? My guy, it’s called Indeed. Or literally any real hiring platform. Nooo. 🚩🚩
Now the bio mom. Whew. She abandons ship, gives the dad custody, jets off to Ireland, calls daily, sees her son two weeks a year, and parades random boyfriends in front of him. Meanwhile, the kid is begging for his nanny to be his mom and everyone’s just like “oh that’s cute” instead of addressing the screaming elephant in the room. WHERE is the conflict? WHERE is the tension? Even if this were reversed — say bio dad peaced out while bio mom raised the kid — I’d still be mad about how weirdly chill everyone was. It’s not even about mom vs. stepmom drama, it’s about the sheer lack of human reaction to a kid practically begging for a parent who actually shows up. The potential for depth? Huge. The execution? Flat.
This could’ve had some real emotional layers if the author dug into the messiness — resentment, guilt, loyalty conflicts, something. Instead it was fluff on fluff on fluff. Which, fine, sometimes you want that. But for me? It felt too sanitized.
So yeah — if you want a zero-conflict, toothache-sweet, pure fluff romance, this will scratch that itch. But if you’re like me and need even a sprinkle of realism or emotional tension… prepare to side-eye your audiobook.
July 30, 2025
The story of the age difference/single father romance in Forbidden Kisses is excellent. Right from the initial pages of Forbidden Kisses, I was enthralled, and I couldn't help but savor every instant on each page. In Forbidden Kisses, Layla Hagen certainly met her fans' expectations and once again created a brilliant story that captures all the aspects I love in steamy romance novels.
Duncan Sterling, a man of few words, always knew that locating a new nanny for his lovely 10-year-old son, Jeremy, would be challenging. He never imagined that a beautiful woman looking for a short-term job would not only resolve his son's issue swiftly but also transform his entire life.
Unexpectedly, the exhausted man comes home early and notices a new kind of happiness in his son's gaze. Yet what astonishes and pleases him is his own satisfaction.
Riley requires employment soon, even though she is on the verge of becoming a lawyer. It is perfect for her to be with Adonis and let him take care of all her problems. She begins to have feelings for the young boy who is fascinated by the zoo and Spider-Man. He brightens Riley's life in a manner she never realized she required. Nevertheless, it is Jeremy's father who genuinely governs her life; their chemistry is undeniable, and trying to suppress it only exacerbates the situation.
My ovaries delighted as I succumbed to temptation and witnessed the beautiful bond between Riley and Duncan, rooted in a child's affection. When the chemistry between Jeremy and Riley transcends playtime and babysitting, Duncan understands that his highly structured life requires an uplifting change, and a stunning 24-year-old brings that change.
Duncan Sterling, a man of few words, always knew that locating a new nanny for his lovely 10-year-old son, Jeremy, would be challenging. He never imagined that a beautiful woman looking for a short-term job would not only resolve his son's issue swiftly but also transform his entire life.
Unexpectedly, the exhausted man comes home early and notices a new kind of happiness in his son's gaze. Yet what astonishes and pleases him is his own satisfaction.
Riley requires employment soon, even though she is on the verge of becoming a lawyer. It is perfect for her to be with Adonis and let him take care of all her problems. She begins to have feelings for the young boy who is fascinated by the zoo and Spider-Man. He brightens Riley's life in a manner she never realized she required. Nevertheless, it is Jeremy's father who genuinely governs her life; their chemistry is undeniable, and trying to suppress it only exacerbates the situation.
My ovaries delighted as I succumbed to temptation and witnessed the beautiful bond between Riley and Duncan, rooted in a child's affection. When the chemistry between Jeremy and Riley transcends playtime and babysitting, Duncan understands that his highly structured life requires an uplifting change, and a stunning 24-year-old brings that change.
August 2, 2025
** 5 stars **
Forbidden Kisses is an amazing addition to this new series from this talented author. It has everything you want in a forbidden romance. This story is a workplace romance featuring a nanny. I have read several of these in the past but this one was chef's kiss. It has amazing characters and is so fun to read. It was hard to put down.
Duncan is a billionaire who is very reserved and is a single dad. His son named Jeremy has a nanny. The nanny needs to go take care of her mother so Duncan is forced to find someone new. He goes through a lot of applicants but then meets Riley. She is waiting to begin a new job as a lawyer but has some time before the job starts. Duncan is immediately attracted to her. There is an age gap between them. He tries to ignore his attraction to Riley and decides to hire her for Jeremy. Riley gets along with Jeremy so well. She is patient and attentive to him. They bond quickly. Duncan suddenly comes home early from work and wants to spend time with Riley. He has never wanted to bring women around his son since he doesn't want them to get attached if it doesn't work out. Jeremy is in need of a female in the home. His mother is out of the country. Riley brings out a side to Duncan that nobody has seen before. She gets along well with his large family.
I loved how Riley was with Jeremy. She didn't treat him like a job and fell in love with his sweet spirit. I also loved how the attraction was between Duncan and Riley. They fit together so well and brought out great sides to each other. It was good to see them happy. I can't wait to read more from this series.
You will love this story if you enjoy:
* Single parent
* Billionaire
* Nanny
* Age gap
Than you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Forbidden Kisses is an amazing addition to this new series from this talented author. It has everything you want in a forbidden romance. This story is a workplace romance featuring a nanny. I have read several of these in the past but this one was chef's kiss. It has amazing characters and is so fun to read. It was hard to put down.
Duncan is a billionaire who is very reserved and is a single dad. His son named Jeremy has a nanny. The nanny needs to go take care of her mother so Duncan is forced to find someone new. He goes through a lot of applicants but then meets Riley. She is waiting to begin a new job as a lawyer but has some time before the job starts. Duncan is immediately attracted to her. There is an age gap between them. He tries to ignore his attraction to Riley and decides to hire her for Jeremy. Riley gets along with Jeremy so well. She is patient and attentive to him. They bond quickly. Duncan suddenly comes home early from work and wants to spend time with Riley. He has never wanted to bring women around his son since he doesn't want them to get attached if it doesn't work out. Jeremy is in need of a female in the home. His mother is out of the country. Riley brings out a side to Duncan that nobody has seen before. She gets along well with his large family.
I loved how Riley was with Jeremy. She didn't treat him like a job and fell in love with his sweet spirit. I also loved how the attraction was between Duncan and Riley. They fit together so well and brought out great sides to each other. It was good to see them happy. I can't wait to read more from this series.
You will love this story if you enjoy:
* Single parent
* Billionaire
* Nanny
* Age gap
Than you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
July 30, 2025
Forbidden Kisses: A Single Dad Romance (The Sterling Brothers Book 2) by Layla Hagan tells the story of Duncan Sterling, a single dad and co-CEO of Sterling Investments, and Riley, a recent graduate awaiting her bar exam results before starting a law firm job. Duncan needs a new nanny for his son Jeremy, whose current nanny has taken leave to care for her recovering mother. After most candidates are rejected, Riley impresses Duncan with her lively energy and charm. She enjoys working with children and has been helping raise her younger sister while her mother works multiple jobs. The position is temporary, as she has a secured role at a law firm contingent on passing the bar, and Jeremy’s current nanny plans to return after her mother’s recovery. As Duncan and Riley spend time together with Jeremy, their mutual attraction grows, blurring the lines between employer and employee. Can their romance survive the summer? Will Duncan let his walls down and embrace love? Will Riley see Jeremy and Duncan working long hours as part of her law firm role? The story explores their transition from a workplace romance to genuine love, making it a compelling read. Like most of Layla Hagen’s books, Forbidden Kisses can also be listened to in an audiobook narrated by Sean Masters and CJ Bloom. Their reading brings the story to life, with the characters’ personalities shining through. All the emotions are conveyed perfectly. This is an audiobook you will want to listen to. Forbidden Kisses is the second book in the Sterling Brothers series, with hints at more exciting stories to come from Layla Hagen.
August 2, 2025
What has been bugging me for the past few books of Hayla Hagen is that none of her past releases for the past 1-2 (maybe more) years is that there is no third-act breakup. I don’t love silly reasons for breaking things off just for the shake of some angst, but the books need some diversity. Hagen’s past two releases have some element of conflict, which is more than welcome at this point and I hope I will see more of it in the upcoming books. My overall rating is 4 stars because despite some little things, I ended up enjoying the book.
Riley and Duncan had an interesting romance. I wasn’t sure on how the story would end, other than the obvious happy ending for the two of them (and Jeremy). It didn’t end in the way I thought it would and I am happy for that. The ending was better than what I expected. I like that we got to see Riley and Jeremy bonding, however, it seemed a little off that Jeremy ended up knowing more things about her than Duncan did. Even though I get that it was a way to show that Riley would be a good stepmom for him, I hated that Jeremy had to point out a couple of things about Riley to his father and it made me feel like Duncan and Riley had a physical only relationship and not a romantic one as well. And speaking about mothers, I have to add that I love that Jeremy’s mother wasn’t a villain and that she had a strong relationship/bond with her son. She was as present as she could be and it was good to see her mentioned often in a kind manner.
There is a little tease for the third book and Griffin’s story sounds deliciously good! The series hasn’t disappointed yet and knowing the author, I am certain it won’t.
Riley and Duncan had an interesting romance. I wasn’t sure on how the story would end, other than the obvious happy ending for the two of them (and Jeremy). It didn’t end in the way I thought it would and I am happy for that. The ending was better than what I expected. I like that we got to see Riley and Jeremy bonding, however, it seemed a little off that Jeremy ended up knowing more things about her than Duncan did. Even though I get that it was a way to show that Riley would be a good stepmom for him, I hated that Jeremy had to point out a couple of things about Riley to his father and it made me feel like Duncan and Riley had a physical only relationship and not a romantic one as well. And speaking about mothers, I have to add that I love that Jeremy’s mother wasn’t a villain and that she had a strong relationship/bond with her son. She was as present as she could be and it was good to see her mentioned often in a kind manner.
There is a little tease for the third book and Griffin’s story sounds deliciously good! The series hasn’t disappointed yet and knowing the author, I am certain it won’t.
July 28, 2025
Rating: 3.75/5
- single dad x nanny
- billionaire romance
- age gap (he’s 33, she’s 24)
- grumpy (him) x sunshine (her)
- no third-act breakup
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
- narrated by CJ Bloom and Sean Masters
This was such a cute read. Riley is sunshine-personified, a hard worker fresh out of college and getting ready to start her new job as a lawyer. In the meantime, she lands a summer job nannying for Duncan’s ten-year-old son, Jeremy. Riley forms an instant connection not only with Duncan but also with Jeremy, and their sweet moments together really tug at your heart.
Riley and Duncan’s relationship moves quickly, just like the book's pace. The forced proximity and opposites-attract dynamic (grumpy and sunshine, rich and not-so-rich) create great tension that builds beautifully before things heat up. Riley’s internal monologue around money feels incredibly relatable, too!
There’s a bit of sneaking around initially, but once Duncan realises Riley is the one for him, he doesn’t hesitate to tell Jeremy. He even gets his son involved in a sweet plan to keep her in their lives for good.
Duncan’s family and Riley’s sister have strong roles in the story, adding humour and depth. And honestly, there’s just something irresistible about a grumpy, overprotective, single dad billionaire. Fun is sure to be around the corner in his brothers' books.
I also can’t fault the audiobook narration. CJ Bloom is my queen, and Sean Masters was made to narrate a grumpy man in his 30s. Together, they brought the story to life.
Thanks to the author for the early copies!
- single dad x nanny
- billionaire romance
- age gap (he’s 33, she’s 24)
- grumpy (him) x sunshine (her)
- no third-act breakup
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
- narrated by CJ Bloom and Sean Masters
This was such a cute read. Riley is sunshine-personified, a hard worker fresh out of college and getting ready to start her new job as a lawyer. In the meantime, she lands a summer job nannying for Duncan’s ten-year-old son, Jeremy. Riley forms an instant connection not only with Duncan but also with Jeremy, and their sweet moments together really tug at your heart.
Riley and Duncan’s relationship moves quickly, just like the book's pace. The forced proximity and opposites-attract dynamic (grumpy and sunshine, rich and not-so-rich) create great tension that builds beautifully before things heat up. Riley’s internal monologue around money feels incredibly relatable, too!
There’s a bit of sneaking around initially, but once Duncan realises Riley is the one for him, he doesn’t hesitate to tell Jeremy. He even gets his son involved in a sweet plan to keep her in their lives for good.
Duncan’s family and Riley’s sister have strong roles in the story, adding humour and depth. And honestly, there’s just something irresistible about a grumpy, overprotective, single dad billionaire. Fun is sure to be around the corner in his brothers' books.
I also can’t fault the audiobook narration. CJ Bloom is my queen, and Sean Masters was made to narrate a grumpy man in his 30s. Together, they brought the story to life.
Thanks to the author for the early copies!
August 6, 2025
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖣𝗎𝗇𝖼𝖺𝗇
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖱𝗂𝗅𝖾𝗒
3.5 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Riley, she is only in her twenties but she's got a good head on her shoulders. She has been working minor jobs and studying to pass the bar exam, but can only get a position at a law firm once the results are out. She isn't one to sit idle so she looks up part time jobs. And this one is about to change her life.
Duncan, single dad and he also run's Sterling Investments, with his brothers. Growing up with his parents constant arguing and divorce, his always held himself back in relationships. He is a focused on giving his 100% to his son and does not make any rash decisions. That's until he hires a nanny for his son.
Second book in this series and I enjoyed being back in this world.
I really do love a single dad × nanny romance but something was really missing for me in this one. The love that Riley had for Jeremy was beautiful from the get go.
But I really just couldn't connect with the female lead at all, as the book progressed! (🤷🏻♀️)
Duncan, I did like his character and loved the moments he spent with his son, that said there wasn't enough of that. And I wished there was.
𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑟𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔/𝑔𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒.
ꍏ꒒ꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝑆𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠 was absolutely amazing as always, with his tone and changing up of voices.
𝐶𝐽 𝐵𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚, unfortunately I didn't really like this narrator that much.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Sterling Fam🩷
.... Griffin I truly can't wait for his book.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫���𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚.5
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖣𝗎𝗇𝖼𝖺𝗇
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖱𝗂𝗅𝖾𝗒
3.5 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Riley, she is only in her twenties but she's got a good head on her shoulders. She has been working minor jobs and studying to pass the bar exam, but can only get a position at a law firm once the results are out. She isn't one to sit idle so she looks up part time jobs. And this one is about to change her life.
Duncan, single dad and he also run's Sterling Investments, with his brothers. Growing up with his parents constant arguing and divorce, his always held himself back in relationships. He is a focused on giving his 100% to his son and does not make any rash decisions. That's until he hires a nanny for his son.
Second book in this series and I enjoyed being back in this world.
I really do love a single dad × nanny romance but something was really missing for me in this one. The love that Riley had for Jeremy was beautiful from the get go.
But I really just couldn't connect with the female lead at all, as the book progressed! (🤷🏻♀️)
Duncan, I did like his character and loved the moments he spent with his son, that said there wasn't enough of that. And I wished there was.
𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑟𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔/𝑔𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒.
ꍏ꒒ꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝑆𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠 was absolutely amazing as always, with his tone and changing up of voices.
𝐶𝐽 𝐵𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚, unfortunately I didn't really like this narrator that much.
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Sterling Fam🩷
.... Griffin I truly can't wait for his book.
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫���𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚.5
August 27, 2025
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
CEO Duncan Sterling managed his professional life down to the minute—until he had to hire a nanny for his son Jeremy, and needed one like yesterday. Riley just wanted a summer job after law school—not a romance with a swoony single dad—but Jeremy melts for her on sight, and Duncan follows, in ways that threaten to derail all his careful plans. Riley is bright, driven, and compassionate, more focused on building her career than on matters of the heart, but she’s not ready for how taking care of Jeremy’s dad will change her plans. This is a slow burn with a lot of depth, and the heat is as much heart-pounding and full-of-snark chemistry as it is a steamy factor. The biggest point of heat for me is the found-family vibe between these characters that made me long for my own in a new way. Duncan’s path from closed off workaholic to accessible parent and lover had me in melted by the end. I adored Riley’s mix of drive, love for her little sister, and undeniable pull with Jeremy. If you’re looking for a sweet only-dipping-in-steamy romance with lots of feels, a found-family cast to swoon over, and one of the best “nanny meets single dad” stories out there, you won’t be disappointed with Forbidden Kisses. This is the romance you want if you’re looking for tender, emotionally layered, and a story that shows family is built in more than one way.
The audio for this book was EVERYTHING I needed and Sean Masters voice is 🔥🔥 and I can listen to CJ bloom anytime. It just brought life to an already amazing book!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
CEO Duncan Sterling managed his professional life down to the minute—until he had to hire a nanny for his son Jeremy, and needed one like yesterday. Riley just wanted a summer job after law school—not a romance with a swoony single dad—but Jeremy melts for her on sight, and Duncan follows, in ways that threaten to derail all his careful plans. Riley is bright, driven, and compassionate, more focused on building her career than on matters of the heart, but she’s not ready for how taking care of Jeremy’s dad will change her plans. This is a slow burn with a lot of depth, and the heat is as much heart-pounding and full-of-snark chemistry as it is a steamy factor. The biggest point of heat for me is the found-family vibe between these characters that made me long for my own in a new way. Duncan’s path from closed off workaholic to accessible parent and lover had me in melted by the end. I adored Riley’s mix of drive, love for her little sister, and undeniable pull with Jeremy. If you’re looking for a sweet only-dipping-in-steamy romance with lots of feels, a found-family cast to swoon over, and one of the best “nanny meets single dad” stories out there, you won’t be disappointed with Forbidden Kisses. This is the romance you want if you’re looking for tender, emotionally layered, and a story that shows family is built in more than one way.
The audio for this book was EVERYTHING I needed and Sean Masters voice is 🔥🔥 and I can listen to CJ bloom anytime. It just brought life to an already amazing book!
July 31, 2025
Forbidden Kisses is the second book in the Sterling Brothers series. This book features Duncan. He is a 33 year old, single Dad. Jeremy is his 10 year old son. The story begins when Duncan needs to find a temporary Nanny.
Duncan is a great Dad. He’s a good man. His life revolves around the well being of his son. He’s a bit closed off and rigid. He seems very precise and controlled. He’s so focused on being a good Dad, he doesn’t give himself any time for his own life. So when Riley shows up things get turned upside down pretty quickly but in all the best ways.
Riley is 24 years old and has recently graduated law school, taken the Bar exam and is scheduled to start a new job in about 3 months. She needs a temporary job until then. So, she applies for the Nanny position.
I adore Riley. She is intelligent, positive, and loving. She grew up watching her Mom struggle to make ends meet and now dreams of helping her mother and sister to have a better life.
I absolutely love that Riley sees Jeremy as more than just a job. She truly loves Jeremy. The connection between them is so magical. The relationship is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.
Ms. Hagen writes her characters so vividly. You feel all of their experiences throughout the story. It’s just amazing. Her characters get right into my heart every time.
Great story line, great pacing. The banter between the brothers is witty. Ms. Hagen is a fabulous storyteller. I love everything she writes.
Duncan is a great Dad. He’s a good man. His life revolves around the well being of his son. He’s a bit closed off and rigid. He seems very precise and controlled. He’s so focused on being a good Dad, he doesn’t give himself any time for his own life. So when Riley shows up things get turned upside down pretty quickly but in all the best ways.
Riley is 24 years old and has recently graduated law school, taken the Bar exam and is scheduled to start a new job in about 3 months. She needs a temporary job until then. So, she applies for the Nanny position.
I adore Riley. She is intelligent, positive, and loving. She grew up watching her Mom struggle to make ends meet and now dreams of helping her mother and sister to have a better life.
I absolutely love that Riley sees Jeremy as more than just a job. She truly loves Jeremy. The connection between them is so magical. The relationship is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.
Ms. Hagen writes her characters so vividly. You feel all of their experiences throughout the story. It’s just amazing. Her characters get right into my heart every time.
Great story line, great pacing. The banter between the brothers is witty. Ms. Hagen is a fabulous storyteller. I love everything she writes.
August 2, 2025
Yet again, Layla gives us a swoon worthy guy in single dad Duncan Sterling, his son Jeremy will steal your heart, and you will just love Riley! I didn't want to put this one down, nor did I want it to end! 5 Sterling stars for this one!
Duncan is a single dad doing his best to raise his son Jeremy, along with the help of his family and his nanny. When the nanny needs to take time off to go and care for her mom, he's forced to find a temporary one to care for his son, and in walks Riley. She's absolutely stunning, and as he checks her resume' she has no experience, but she explains to him that she basically cared for her younger sister, and he hires her. This could be trouble for him as he is attracted to her. But once he sees her with his son, he knows he made the right choice, he will just have to keep the attraction to himself. Famous last words!!
Riley is waiting for her results of the bar exam she took to come in. So when she sees the listing for a nanny for three months, and the pay, this will be perfect to do while she waits. She can't believe how hot Duncan is, wow, this will be tough to ignore, but when she meets his son Jeremy, she falls for the little guy hard, and truly enjoys her time with him. But any time Duncan touches her, it's hard to ignore the fact that she likes him too!
Sit back and enjoy their story as it unfolds. You will love these three so much! Not to mention the other Sterling brothers! Grab this one now!
Duncan is a single dad doing his best to raise his son Jeremy, along with the help of his family and his nanny. When the nanny needs to take time off to go and care for her mom, he's forced to find a temporary one to care for his son, and in walks Riley. She's absolutely stunning, and as he checks her resume' she has no experience, but she explains to him that she basically cared for her younger sister, and he hires her. This could be trouble for him as he is attracted to her. But once he sees her with his son, he knows he made the right choice, he will just have to keep the attraction to himself. Famous last words!!
Riley is waiting for her results of the bar exam she took to come in. So when she sees the listing for a nanny for three months, and the pay, this will be perfect to do while she waits. She can't believe how hot Duncan is, wow, this will be tough to ignore, but when she meets his son Jeremy, she falls for the little guy hard, and truly enjoys her time with him. But any time Duncan touches her, it's hard to ignore the fact that she likes him too!
Sit back and enjoy their story as it unfolds. You will love these three so much! Not to mention the other Sterling brothers! Grab this one now!
August 4, 2025
This was such a sweet romance between a billionaire and his temporary nanny. Needing a temporary job while waiting for the results of the bar exam to arrive, Riley applies for a position as a nanny even though she doesn’t have any formal experience in childcare. However after interviewing, Duncan knows Riley will be perfect for his son Jeremy. And she is perfect, immediately connecting with Jeremy. However, on the cusp of starting her career, Riley never expected to fall for the billionaire or his sweet son while temporarily nannying for the family. When her time is up, she will have to start her new position, but will their summer romance survive? This age gap, opposites attract, billionaire romance between a single dad and his nanny was a fantastic audiobook filled with banter, sweet moments, and steam.
In audio, CJ Bloom and Sean Masters made this story even better. They were each perfect for their characters and together. I loved how Sean played Duncan with a mix of gruffness and mischief. CJ on the other hand was driven and sweet. At vastly different stages of their lives, they meet up and couldn’t be more perfect for one another and I think that’s what I loved most about this story. And in audio, the characters' contrasts were even more evident with how Sean and CJ performed them and it made this story so much better for me. I’m looking forward to listening to Stolen Kisses and seeing what else is in store for all the Sterling brothers.
In audio, CJ Bloom and Sean Masters made this story even better. They were each perfect for their characters and together. I loved how Sean played Duncan with a mix of gruffness and mischief. CJ on the other hand was driven and sweet. At vastly different stages of their lives, they meet up and couldn’t be more perfect for one another and I think that’s what I loved most about this story. And in audio, the characters' contrasts were even more evident with how Sean and CJ performed them and it made this story so much better for me. I’m looking forward to listening to Stolen Kisses and seeing what else is in store for all the Sterling brothers.
August 5, 2025
"Layla Hagen delivers a heartfelt, swoon-worthy romance in Forbidden Kisses—a story that blends single-parent struggles, slow-burning chemistry, and emotional vulnerability with just the right dose of humor and heat.
This story shines in its balance: it’s sexy without being shallow, emotional without being melodramatic. The scenes with Jeremy are particularly moving, offering both warmth and depth that elevate the romance. Riley is more than just a love interest—she’s a steady, kind presence who brings light into both father and son’s lives. Her playful banter, patience, and compassion make her incredibly likable, and her chemistry with the male lead is electric without ever feeling rushed.If you're a fan of single dad romances, slow-burn attraction, and characters who grow together, Forbidden Kisses will charm you from start to finish. It's about second chances, letting love in—even when it’s risky—and finding the courage to build a new kind of family.
" ~Stephanie
I really liked the dynamic between Duncan and Riley. This is a nanny, age gap, insta love story. Duncan needs a nanny for his son Jeremy. Riley is looking for a summer job before she starts her job as a lawyer. From the beginning, sparks fly between them but the focus is the welfare of Jeremy, but the heart wants who it wants. This is a cute, quick read story with lots of heart. ~Cindy
This story shines in its balance: it’s sexy without being shallow, emotional without being melodramatic. The scenes with Jeremy are particularly moving, offering both warmth and depth that elevate the romance. Riley is more than just a love interest—she’s a steady, kind presence who brings light into both father and son’s lives. Her playful banter, patience, and compassion make her incredibly likable, and her chemistry with the male lead is electric without ever feeling rushed.If you're a fan of single dad romances, slow-burn attraction, and characters who grow together, Forbidden Kisses will charm you from start to finish. It's about second chances, letting love in—even when it’s risky—and finding the courage to build a new kind of family.
" ~Stephanie
I really liked the dynamic between Duncan and Riley. This is a nanny, age gap, insta love story. Duncan needs a nanny for his son Jeremy. Riley is looking for a summer job before she starts her job as a lawyer. From the beginning, sparks fly between them but the focus is the welfare of Jeremy, but the heart wants who it wants. This is a cute, quick read story with lots of heart. ~Cindy
August 6, 2025
Oh my!! Duncan Sterling and Riley were just amazing. Layla Hagen delivers another swoony and heartfelt story! From the moment their story started you could just feel the angst, passion, love, and every other emotion you can think come off the page. I think Duncan is really special because he learns who Riley really is and will always put his son Jeremy as his main responsibility. Jeremy is really the cutest kid. From the moment he meets Riley, Duncan isn’t sure how to read her. Easier said than done. Riley found the strength to create the life that she truly wants and works hard to become a lawyer. Will Duncan claim his true love or will he figure out what he has done to send Riley running? I fell in love with how protective Duncan became of Riley so quickly. As always there are lots of family interactions from Duncan and his brothers to how their parents are rekindling their love story! Love big families that love big? Then you will love Forbidden Kisses!! *****
Now, let’s talk about the audiobook! Sean Masters and CJ Bloom narrate Forbidden Kisses. Wow, these two do a fantastic job. Sean Masters has quickly become a favorite male narrator. His voice is just so smooth yet rugged. CJ Bloom does a great job as Riley. Both of these narrators bring Duncan and Riley to life so perfectly.
Now, let’s talk about the audiobook! Sean Masters and CJ Bloom narrate Forbidden Kisses. Wow, these two do a fantastic job. Sean Masters has quickly become a favorite male narrator. His voice is just so smooth yet rugged. CJ Bloom does a great job as Riley. Both of these narrators bring Duncan and Riley to life so perfectly.
July 29, 2025
📚BOOK REVIEW 📚
Forbidden Kisses - @laylahagen_author
This was a great book on audio narrated by @seanmastersaudio and C J Bloom. They expertly brought these characters to life and were great at telling the story.
Duncan Sterling is a successful businessman. He runs the business with his brothers and has a close knit bond with them. He is also bringing up his son, Jeremy as a single father. When he is left in the lurch he suddenly finds himself looking for a new nanny.
He finds one in the form of Riley who he is attracted to from the get go. Determined to keep things professional. He tries to keep his distance but it's not long before he is giving in to temptation and succumbing to desire.
Riley is a clever cookie who has taken the bar and is eagerly awaiting her results before she can start her career as a lawyer. She has worked hard for it but she's also a free spirit who is energetic and fun. She's a great nanny and quickly forms a bond with Jeremy. But she's also drawn to Duncan.
This was a story of falling in love and finding a family but it also had layers and there were surprises along the way. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
Jamie x
Forbidden Kisses - @laylahagen_author
This was a great book on audio narrated by @seanmastersaudio and C J Bloom. They expertly brought these characters to life and were great at telling the story.
Duncan Sterling is a successful businessman. He runs the business with his brothers and has a close knit bond with them. He is also bringing up his son, Jeremy as a single father. When he is left in the lurch he suddenly finds himself looking for a new nanny.
He finds one in the form of Riley who he is attracted to from the get go. Determined to keep things professional. He tries to keep his distance but it's not long before he is giving in to temptation and succumbing to desire.
Riley is a clever cookie who has taken the bar and is eagerly awaiting her results before she can start her career as a lawyer. She has worked hard for it but she's also a free spirit who is energetic and fun. She's a great nanny and quickly forms a bond with Jeremy. But she's also drawn to Duncan.
This was a story of falling in love and finding a family but it also had layers and there were surprises along the way. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
Jamie x
August 3, 2025
Reviewed by Donna for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
Yet another brilliant book by this author. Duncan, Riley, and Jeremy's story was great and probably one of the best and fun, Single Dad and Nanny romances I've read for some time. Who would have thought that all of their lives would change like forever, due to a short-term job. A nanny for Jeremy.
I was completely pulled in and couldn't put this book down. I couldn't stop laughing how Duncan acted when he was forced to do things out of his comfort zone. But the Disney marathons and other activities seemed to do the trick. And thawed his uptight ways.
I won't say more. Just know it's a great quick, fast-paced read, and I couldn't recommend it more. I don't think you can go wrong with whatever this author writes.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Yet another brilliant book by this author. Duncan, Riley, and Jeremy's story was great and probably one of the best and fun, Single Dad and Nanny romances I've read for some time. Who would have thought that all of their lives would change like forever, due to a short-term job. A nanny for Jeremy.
I was completely pulled in and couldn't put this book down. I couldn't stop laughing how Duncan acted when he was forced to do things out of his comfort zone. But the Disney marathons and other activities seemed to do the trick. And thawed his uptight ways.
I won't say more. Just know it's a great quick, fast-paced read, and I couldn't recommend it more. I don't think you can go wrong with whatever this author writes.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews