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Hot for Mr. Moneybags
Book 3
The Single Moms of San The Vino Vixens
A quiet man. A cautious heart. A love that refuses to stay silent.
Because sometimes, healing feels like falling—and falling feels like home.
Welcome to San Camanez, a humble, peaceful little island in the Puget Sound and home to the Vino Vixens. Four cousins—and single moms—who run a vineyard, love the wine they sell, raise their kids together, and still hold out hope that not all men are like the ones they married. This is Danica’s story …
Tommaso
I came to San Camanez to keep a promise to my late wife—to turn our land into a sanctuary for the lost and forgotten. The animals give me purpose; the silence keeps me steady.
Then Danica Ross and her daughter arrive, and my carefully contained world begins to shift. She’s gentle but strong, scarred but unbroken. And when her little girl’s laughter fills the barn, I start to remember what hope sounds like.
But when my wife’s cousin threatens to take the farm, I realize I could lose everything—again. This time, though, I’m not sure I can go back to being alone.
Danica
After escaping a cruel marriage, I built a quiet life for my daughter and me—safe, small, predictable. Love wasn’t part of the plan.
Then Tommaso Barone walks into our quiet, kind, infuriatingly patient. He makes me believe in trust again. In laughter. In warmth.
When his sanctuary—and our fragile new bond—are threatened, I have to decide if I’ll run like I always have… or fight for the man who’s teaching me that love doesn’t always hurt.
Set against the windswept shores of San Camanez, this tender, slow-burn romance celebrates second chances, quiet strength, and the kind of love that heals what life once broke.
The Single Moms of San The Vino Vixens
A quiet man. A cautious heart. A love that refuses to stay silent.
Because sometimes, healing feels like falling—and falling feels like home.
Welcome to San Camanez, a humble, peaceful little island in the Puget Sound and home to the Vino Vixens. Four cousins—and single moms—who run a vineyard, love the wine they sell, raise their kids together, and still hold out hope that not all men are like the ones they married. This is Danica’s story …
Tommaso
I came to San Camanez to keep a promise to my late wife—to turn our land into a sanctuary for the lost and forgotten. The animals give me purpose; the silence keeps me steady.
Then Danica Ross and her daughter arrive, and my carefully contained world begins to shift. She’s gentle but strong, scarred but unbroken. And when her little girl’s laughter fills the barn, I start to remember what hope sounds like.
But when my wife’s cousin threatens to take the farm, I realize I could lose everything—again. This time, though, I’m not sure I can go back to being alone.
Danica
After escaping a cruel marriage, I built a quiet life for my daughter and me—safe, small, predictable. Love wasn’t part of the plan.
Then Tommaso Barone walks into our quiet, kind, infuriatingly patient. He makes me believe in trust again. In laughter. In warmth.
When his sanctuary—and our fragile new bond—are threatened, I have to decide if I’ll run like I always have… or fight for the man who’s teaching me that love doesn’t always hurt.
Set against the windswept shores of San Camanez, this tender, slow-burn romance celebrates second chances, quiet strength, and the kind of love that heals what life once broke.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2025
3 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Whitley Cox
175 books982 followersA Canadian West Coast baby born and raised, Whitley is married to her high school sweetheart and together they have two beautiful daughters and a fluffy dog. She spends her days making food that gets thrown on the floor, vacuuming Cheerios out from under the couch and making sure that the dog food doesn't end up in the air conditioner. But when the kids are at school and it's not quite wine o'clock, Whitley sits down, avoids the pile of laundry on the couch, and writes.
A lover of all things decadent; wine, cheese, chocolate and spicy erotic romance, Whitley brings the humorous side of sex, the ridiculous side of relationships and the suspense of everyday life into her stories. With single dads, firefighters, Navy SEALs, mommy wars, body issues, threesomes, bondage and role-playing, Whitley’s books have all the funny and fabulously filthy words you could hope for.
For all foreign translation rights and audiobook rights inquiries please contact literary agent Ena Burnette with SBR Media: ena@sbrmedia.com
A lover of all things decadent; wine, cheese, chocolate and spicy erotic romance, Whitley brings the humorous side of sex, the ridiculous side of relationships and the suspense of everyday life into her stories. With single dads, firefighters, Navy SEALs, mommy wars, body issues, threesomes, bondage and role-playing, Whitley’s books have all the funny and fabulously filthy words you could hope for.
For all foreign translation rights and audiobook rights inquiries please contact literary agent Ena Burnette with SBR Media: ena@sbrmedia.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 22, 2025
This is the third book in this phenomenal series, and this is Tommaso and Danica’s story.
Tommaso arrives in San Camanez to honor a promise to his late wife, by opening a sanctuary on their land for the lost and forgotten. Danica is a single mom to her daughter, Sam, who is struggling with anxiety. Danica will do whatever she must to help Sam, so she takes her to the sanctuary for help. There is an instant connection between Tom and Danica, but can they choose each other and heal?
This is a well written slow burn, easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, suspense, intrigue, guilt, challenges, loss, grief, healing, humour, witty banter, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Tommaso arrives in San Camanez to honor a promise to his late wife, by opening a sanctuary on their land for the lost and forgotten. Danica is a single mom to her daughter, Sam, who is struggling with anxiety. Danica will do whatever she must to help Sam, so she takes her to the sanctuary for help. There is an instant connection between Tom and Danica, but can they choose each other and heal?
This is a well written slow burn, easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, suspense, intrigue, guilt, challenges, loss, grief, healing, humour, witty banter, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
December 19, 2025
5 Star Review Hot For Mr. Moneybags (The Single Moms of San Camenez #3) by Whitley Cox
This is the third book in the latest series from Whitley Cox and was well written and entertaining.
This is Danica Ross andTommaso Barone’s story and what a beautiful story it was.
I loved our couple, he is totally swoon worthy and I loved how protective he was of Danica and her daughter, Sam.
A passionate, witty story with characters whose story you cannot help but be drawn into. From the first chapter to the last I enjoyed every word.
This is the third book in the latest series from Whitley Cox and was well written and entertaining.
This is Danica Ross andTommaso Barone’s story and what a beautiful story it was.
I loved our couple, he is totally swoon worthy and I loved how protective he was of Danica and her daughter, Sam.
A passionate, witty story with characters whose story you cannot help but be drawn into. From the first chapter to the last I enjoyed every word.
December 25, 2025
Welcome back to San Camanez and the stories of the Vivo Vixens. This is the 3rd story in this series and we are reading about Danica and Tomasso.
As we know Danica and her cousins escaped a cult and terrible husbands and they created a new life in San Camanez and opened up a winery. She has a daughter, Sam, who is having Mental Health Issues and encountering a bully. Danica and her cousins are trying their best to help but nothing is working.
We are at the town meeting where we are about to find out who gets Bonn's land. There are the girls, The McEvoys, The men from the distillery, and in walks a stranger. Tomasso Barone. Tomasso, or Tom, owns some land and runs an animal sanctuary from there where he adopts mistreated animals. No one knew he lived there or the sanctuary existed.
We later learn that one of the owners of the distillery, Cameron, has a daughter who is also struggling with her mental health and that visiting Toms sanctuary has helped her, and he introduces Danica to Tomasso.
What turns into Danica looking for something to help her daughter turns into something that helps all 3 of them. What Danica doesn't know is Tom suffers himself from anxiety and the sanctuary is his late wife's dream and helps him deal. Unfortunately his wife's family wants to take it all away.
This story does a great job of dealing with mental illness/anxiety and how to deal with it and why its so important to deal with it. I love the interaction between Tom, Danica and her daughter, as they try and navigate ways to help each other. Both characters are scared and nervous to deal with their feelings. Danica because of her horrid past and Tom because of his late wife and his anxiety.
Add in the cousins and all the favorite characters we know and love and you get a village of people who are there for each other in all sort of ways, and are willing to help Danica and Tom not only deal with their feelings but embrace Tom into the community and help him keep control of his sanctuary
We do see a few characters that are not the best people and it is so good to see them get what they deserve. Its a novel so well written and deals with MH issues and the patience and strategies to deal with that.
a feel good novel with heart, love, longing, a bit of sadness but most of all hope.
cant wait for Book 4.
* I received this as an E-Arc for a truthful, unbiased review*
As we know Danica and her cousins escaped a cult and terrible husbands and they created a new life in San Camanez and opened up a winery. She has a daughter, Sam, who is having Mental Health Issues and encountering a bully. Danica and her cousins are trying their best to help but nothing is working.
We are at the town meeting where we are about to find out who gets Bonn's land. There are the girls, The McEvoys, The men from the distillery, and in walks a stranger. Tomasso Barone. Tomasso, or Tom, owns some land and runs an animal sanctuary from there where he adopts mistreated animals. No one knew he lived there or the sanctuary existed.
We later learn that one of the owners of the distillery, Cameron, has a daughter who is also struggling with her mental health and that visiting Toms sanctuary has helped her, and he introduces Danica to Tomasso.
What turns into Danica looking for something to help her daughter turns into something that helps all 3 of them. What Danica doesn't know is Tom suffers himself from anxiety and the sanctuary is his late wife's dream and helps him deal. Unfortunately his wife's family wants to take it all away.
This story does a great job of dealing with mental illness/anxiety and how to deal with it and why its so important to deal with it. I love the interaction between Tom, Danica and her daughter, as they try and navigate ways to help each other. Both characters are scared and nervous to deal with their feelings. Danica because of her horrid past and Tom because of his late wife and his anxiety.
Add in the cousins and all the favorite characters we know and love and you get a village of people who are there for each other in all sort of ways, and are willing to help Danica and Tom not only deal with their feelings but embrace Tom into the community and help him keep control of his sanctuary
We do see a few characters that are not the best people and it is so good to see them get what they deserve. Its a novel so well written and deals with MH issues and the patience and strategies to deal with that.
a feel good novel with heart, love, longing, a bit of sadness but most of all hope.
cant wait for Book 4.
* I received this as an E-Arc for a truthful, unbiased review*
January 7, 2026
Another wonderful read from Whitley Cox, this time Book III in the Vino Vixen series, focusing on Tommaso and Danica. Where do we even begin?
Tommaso Barone is a man who prefers the quiet life, keeping himself to himself. A secret billionaire with a sporty past, he moves to the island to fulfil a promise made to his late wife: to open an animal sanctuary for mistreated animals (on land owned by his son).
Danica Ross is one of the cousins we’ve come to know in the previous books - cousins who escaped a cult, to start fresh on the island and run their own winery.
Danica is also a single mother to a young daughter who is having a difficult time, dealing not only with a bully but with her mental health as well.
As I’ve mentioned before, Whitley’s writing always carries a serious undertone, and this book is no exception. Mental health is an important topic that needs to be handled with sensitivity and care, and she does this beautifully throughout the story - particularly when it comes to young people’s mental health.
As with the previous two books, and the Brew Brothers series, there is an ongoing subplot surrounding land ownership. I’ve really enjoyed seeing this storyline continue across both series, tying them together. It’s here that we learn more about Tom, the stranger among friends, and discover that he is actually the fifth and final silent applicant vying for the land.
We learn that Camerons daughter has been visiting Tom’s sanctuary to support her mental health, so it's suggested that Sam might benefit from spending time there too, helping care for the animals. This is where Danica and Tom meet, and their friendship (and eventual relationship) begins to bloom.
What starts as a parent simply trying to help their child when all other options have failed soon turns into a journey where all three of them begin helping, supporting, and healing one another. Add in some humorous mishaps, legal nightmares, emotional baggage, and the challenge of navigating a hopeful future, and you have a truly heartfelt story.
The main message that stood out for me was how anxiety can impact daily life, and how isolating it can feel even when you have a support network around you. Whitley does an incredible job of highlighting the importance of speaking out, leaning on others, and understanding that getting help isn’t always just about sitting on a sofa talking. Sometimes, it really does take a village — and this story is a true embodiment of that.
As always, the side characters, the cousins and the brothers from the previous series, bring that familiar sense of home, community, and warmth that Whitley’s books are known for.
This is very much a feel-good read, full of heart, found family, and hope. Love might not always be easy, but it’s worth it when you find it in the right places.
Thank you to Whitley for sending me an ecopy to read and review.
Tommaso Barone is a man who prefers the quiet life, keeping himself to himself. A secret billionaire with a sporty past, he moves to the island to fulfil a promise made to his late wife: to open an animal sanctuary for mistreated animals (on land owned by his son).
Danica Ross is one of the cousins we’ve come to know in the previous books - cousins who escaped a cult, to start fresh on the island and run their own winery.
Danica is also a single mother to a young daughter who is having a difficult time, dealing not only with a bully but with her mental health as well.
As I’ve mentioned before, Whitley’s writing always carries a serious undertone, and this book is no exception. Mental health is an important topic that needs to be handled with sensitivity and care, and she does this beautifully throughout the story - particularly when it comes to young people’s mental health.
As with the previous two books, and the Brew Brothers series, there is an ongoing subplot surrounding land ownership. I’ve really enjoyed seeing this storyline continue across both series, tying them together. It’s here that we learn more about Tom, the stranger among friends, and discover that he is actually the fifth and final silent applicant vying for the land.
We learn that Camerons daughter has been visiting Tom’s sanctuary to support her mental health, so it's suggested that Sam might benefit from spending time there too, helping care for the animals. This is where Danica and Tom meet, and their friendship (and eventual relationship) begins to bloom.
What starts as a parent simply trying to help their child when all other options have failed soon turns into a journey where all three of them begin helping, supporting, and healing one another. Add in some humorous mishaps, legal nightmares, emotional baggage, and the challenge of navigating a hopeful future, and you have a truly heartfelt story.
The main message that stood out for me was how anxiety can impact daily life, and how isolating it can feel even when you have a support network around you. Whitley does an incredible job of highlighting the importance of speaking out, leaning on others, and understanding that getting help isn’t always just about sitting on a sofa talking. Sometimes, it really does take a village — and this story is a true embodiment of that.
As always, the side characters, the cousins and the brothers from the previous series, bring that familiar sense of home, community, and warmth that Whitley’s books are known for.
This is very much a feel-good read, full of heart, found family, and hope. Love might not always be easy, but it’s worth it when you find it in the right places.
Thank you to Whitley for sending me an ecopy to read and review.
December 20, 2025
An achingly tender, heart-clutching romance that proves love can find you when you least expect it—even after life has tested you to the limit.
Whitley Cox continues to deliver emotional gold with The Single Moms of San Camanez: The Vino Vixens, and Hot for Mr. Moneybags (Book 3) may just be the most moving installment yet. If you thought the first two books tugged at your heartstrings, Danica and Tommaso’s story goes straight for the soul and doesn’t let go.
Danica is a devoted single mum whose world revolves around her ten-year-old daughter, Samantha—a child who completely stole my heart and will stay with me long after the final page. Samantha isn’t just a side character; she’s the emotional heartbeat of this story, adding warmth, innocence, and a depth that makes every moment feel real and raw.
Tommaso is the quiet, guarded hero we can’t help but fall for. Running an animal sanctuary on the island, he lives a solitary life by choice, keeping his distance from the world and his own painful past. But when Danica and Sam arrive at the farm, the walls he’s carefully built begin to crumble, and the lives of all three are changed forever.
What makes this story shine is its honesty. Whitley Cox doesn’t pretend that love is easy—especially when carrying emotional baggage, responsibilities, and scars from the past. This is a slow-burn, heartfelt romance about healing, trust, found family, and the kind of love that grows quietly but deeply.
Hot for Mr. Moneybags is emotional, tender, and beautifully written—a must-read for anyone who loves single-parent romances, gentle heroes, and stories that remind us that even after hardship, happiness is still possible. 💔❤️
Whitley Cox continues to deliver emotional gold with The Single Moms of San Camanez: The Vino Vixens, and Hot for Mr. Moneybags (Book 3) may just be the most moving installment yet. If you thought the first two books tugged at your heartstrings, Danica and Tommaso’s story goes straight for the soul and doesn’t let go.
Danica is a devoted single mum whose world revolves around her ten-year-old daughter, Samantha—a child who completely stole my heart and will stay with me long after the final page. Samantha isn’t just a side character; she’s the emotional heartbeat of this story, adding warmth, innocence, and a depth that makes every moment feel real and raw.
Tommaso is the quiet, guarded hero we can’t help but fall for. Running an animal sanctuary on the island, he lives a solitary life by choice, keeping his distance from the world and his own painful past. But when Danica and Sam arrive at the farm, the walls he’s carefully built begin to crumble, and the lives of all three are changed forever.
What makes this story shine is its honesty. Whitley Cox doesn’t pretend that love is easy—especially when carrying emotional baggage, responsibilities, and scars from the past. This is a slow-burn, heartfelt romance about healing, trust, found family, and the kind of love that grows quietly but deeply.
Hot for Mr. Moneybags is emotional, tender, and beautifully written—a must-read for anyone who loves single-parent romances, gentle heroes, and stories that remind us that even after hardship, happiness is still possible. 💔❤️
December 19, 2025
I love this series, it was great to catch up with so many of the residents.
Many from the prominent families and many longtime islanders.
I single mum Danica and her Daughter Sam are from the winery. Sam has severe anxiety from being bullied in school and Danicas friend told her horse therapy was helping his daughter, that thought was left to tick over.
Tommaso Barone ( Tom ) is originally from Italy but came to live on his son’s land to for-fill his late wife’s with to rescue abandoned or mistreated animals, he himself suffers from anxiety so feels for the girls and agrees to help with his horses.
Tom isolated himself with the animals simply living out his retirement from professional football . From the moment Tom and Danica meet sparks rose, but both are wary, Danica sees the bond Tom and Sam seem to have grown so easily over the animals welfare and their shared anxiety
.
Without spoilers there are upsetting elements of loss, kidnapping, but many swooning moments.
Patria the pig Princess well adorable throughout, I’m gonna miss that little piggy.
What I missed - Toms son and his other half were in Italy partners in life and work but they didn’t really come up. No phone calls, reciprocal texting and no visit in about 8 months, I would have hoped Tom would have wanted to blend the family even if it was a flying visit to meet Danica and Sam new additions to the family.
I think Sam having two and brothers would have bolstered her anxiety and done wonders for her. Still loved and recommend.
Many from the prominent families and many longtime islanders.
I single mum Danica and her Daughter Sam are from the winery. Sam has severe anxiety from being bullied in school and Danicas friend told her horse therapy was helping his daughter, that thought was left to tick over.
Tommaso Barone ( Tom ) is originally from Italy but came to live on his son’s land to for-fill his late wife’s with to rescue abandoned or mistreated animals, he himself suffers from anxiety so feels for the girls and agrees to help with his horses.
Tom isolated himself with the animals simply living out his retirement from professional football . From the moment Tom and Danica meet sparks rose, but both are wary, Danica sees the bond Tom and Sam seem to have grown so easily over the animals welfare and their shared anxiety
.
Without spoilers there are upsetting elements of loss, kidnapping, but many swooning moments.
Patria the pig Princess well adorable throughout, I’m gonna miss that little piggy.
What I missed - Toms son and his other half were in Italy partners in life and work but they didn’t really come up. No phone calls, reciprocal texting and no visit in about 8 months, I would have hoped Tom would have wanted to blend the family even if it was a flying visit to meet Danica and Sam new additions to the family.
I think Sam having two and brothers would have bolstered her anxiety and done wonders for her. Still loved and recommend.
December 20, 2025
What an outstanding heartfelt read and a wonderful addition to the series. The book is very well written and the storyline is jam packed with all kinds of emotional and fun moments. An added plus for this reader is the appearance of several of the inlanders we met in The Brew Brother’s series.
Danica is the shyest of the sisters. If you’ve kept up with the series, you know that sisters, with the help of their aunt, all escaped cult type situations and husbands that were more cruel than anything. Danica has a daughter that suffers from anxiety and has a bully at school that torments her daily. When Danica learns of an animal sanctuary on the island that has helped one of her friends' kids with her issues, she takes a chance to see if the owner will let her daughter spend some time with the animals in hopes of helping her as well. The last thing she expects to find is Tommaso, a sexy billionaire widower. Both Danica and Tommaso are attracted to one another but they also both fight it. Tom over his guilt at having feelings for a woman other than his ex wife and Danica because she is so shy and never even been on a date or in a “Normal” relationship. Watching these two not only deal with their budding relationship but also with their personal problems developing on the island, especially with the animals and school bullies.
This is an amazing read that I highly recommend along with the first 2 books in the series. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next on the Island of San Camanez.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
Danica is the shyest of the sisters. If you’ve kept up with the series, you know that sisters, with the help of their aunt, all escaped cult type situations and husbands that were more cruel than anything. Danica has a daughter that suffers from anxiety and has a bully at school that torments her daily. When Danica learns of an animal sanctuary on the island that has helped one of her friends' kids with her issues, she takes a chance to see if the owner will let her daughter spend some time with the animals in hopes of helping her as well. The last thing she expects to find is Tommaso, a sexy billionaire widower. Both Danica and Tommaso are attracted to one another but they also both fight it. Tom over his guilt at having feelings for a woman other than his ex wife and Danica because she is so shy and never even been on a date or in a “Normal” relationship. Watching these two not only deal with their budding relationship but also with their personal problems developing on the island, especially with the animals and school bullies.
This is an amazing read that I highly recommend along with the first 2 books in the series. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next on the Island of San Camanez.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
December 27, 2025
4.5 stars
This book surprised me in the best way — it’s tender, emotional, and quietly powerful beneath the romance.
Tommaso Barone, a retired Italian footballer, has traded fame for peace, building an animal sanctuary to honor his late wife’s dream. Living with anxiety, Tom finds comfort in the animals, even as he faces a shady cousin trying to steal the land. His world shifts when he meets Danica, a devoted mother whose daughter is being bullied for her own anxiety. What starts as a simple kindness — allowing her daughter time with the animals — becomes something much deeper.
The connection between Tom and Danica grows naturally, rooted in empathy and shared healing. Both carry heavy pasts: Tom with grief and anxiety, Danica as a survivor of a cult while protecting her child. Their relationship unfolds gently, with patience, vulnerability, and emotional honesty that feels refreshingly real.
This story shines in its softness — the sanctuary setting, the animals, and the way love grows without pressure or perfection. It’s heartfelt without being heavy. Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a warm, healing romance about resilience, second chances, and finding peace — and love — where you least expect it. 💛
This book surprised me in the best way — it’s tender, emotional, and quietly powerful beneath the romance.
Tommaso Barone, a retired Italian footballer, has traded fame for peace, building an animal sanctuary to honor his late wife’s dream. Living with anxiety, Tom finds comfort in the animals, even as he faces a shady cousin trying to steal the land. His world shifts when he meets Danica, a devoted mother whose daughter is being bullied for her own anxiety. What starts as a simple kindness — allowing her daughter time with the animals — becomes something much deeper.
The connection between Tom and Danica grows naturally, rooted in empathy and shared healing. Both carry heavy pasts: Tom with grief and anxiety, Danica as a survivor of a cult while protecting her child. Their relationship unfolds gently, with patience, vulnerability, and emotional honesty that feels refreshingly real.
This story shines in its softness — the sanctuary setting, the animals, and the way love grows without pressure or perfection. It’s heartfelt without being heavy. Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a warm, healing romance about resilience, second chances, and finding peace — and love — where you least expect it. 💛
December 28, 2025
4.5 stars
This book surprised me in the best way — it’s tender, emotional, and quietly powerful beneath the romance.
Tommaso Barone, a retired Italian footballer, has traded fame for peace, building an animal sanctuary to honor his late wife’s dream. Living with anxiety, Tom finds comfort in the animals, even as he faces a shady cousin trying to steal the land. His world shifts when he meets Danica, a devoted mother whose daughter is being bullied for her own anxiety. What starts as a simple kindness — allowing her daughter time with the animals — becomes something much deeper.
The connection between Tom and Danica grows naturally, rooted in empathy and shared healing. Both carry heavy pasts: Tom with grief and anxiety, Danica as a survivor of a cult while protecting her child. Their relationship unfolds gently, with patience, vulnerability, and emotional honesty that feels refreshingly real.
This story shines in its softness — the sanctuary setting, the animals, and the way love grows without pressure or perfection. It’s heartfelt without being heavy. Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a warm, healing romance about resilience, second chances, and finding peace — and love — where you least expect it. 💛
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
This book surprised me in the best way — it’s tender, emotional, and quietly powerful beneath the romance.
Tommaso Barone, a retired Italian footballer, has traded fame for peace, building an animal sanctuary to honor his late wife’s dream. Living with anxiety, Tom finds comfort in the animals, even as he faces a shady cousin trying to steal the land. His world shifts when he meets Danica, a devoted mother whose daughter is being bullied for her own anxiety. What starts as a simple kindness — allowing her daughter time with the animals — becomes something much deeper.
The connection between Tom and Danica grows naturally, rooted in empathy and shared healing. Both carry heavy pasts: Tom with grief and anxiety, Danica as a survivor of a cult while protecting her child. Their relationship unfolds gently, with patience, vulnerability, and emotional honesty that feels refreshingly real.
This story shines in its softness — the sanctuary setting, the animals, and the way love grows without pressure or perfection. It’s heartfelt without being heavy. Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a warm, healing romance about resilience, second chances, and finding peace — and love — where you least expect it. 💛
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
December 18, 2025
Hot for Mr Moneybags is single mum Danica and animal rescuer and widower Tommaso Barone’s emotional and entertaining story set on San Camanez Island. It’s book three in The Single Moms of San The Vino Vixens and I loved everything about this story.
Danic’s 10 year old daughter Sam is trying to deal with her anxiety and low self-esteem but to make matters worse she is being bullied at school. So when Danica hears about the animal rescue farm on the island she decides to take Sam up there and that’s when things get real interesting…….
Tom was widowed many years ago and he is living out his retirement from professional Italian football rescuing animals on what was his wife’s family land. From the moment Tom and Danica met sparks fly but it’s the bond Tom and Sam built over the anxiety each deal with on a daily basis that touched my heart.
This story is heartwarming and at times heartbreaking. I fell hard and fast for Tom and I adored Danica but it was the small community of San Camanez Island that added depth to this well written journey. I smiled, I swooned and I held my breath as I cheered this couple on.
Danic’s 10 year old daughter Sam is trying to deal with her anxiety and low self-esteem but to make matters worse she is being bullied at school. So when Danica hears about the animal rescue farm on the island she decides to take Sam up there and that’s when things get real interesting…….
Tom was widowed many years ago and he is living out his retirement from professional Italian football rescuing animals on what was his wife’s family land. From the moment Tom and Danica met sparks fly but it’s the bond Tom and Sam built over the anxiety each deal with on a daily basis that touched my heart.
This story is heartwarming and at times heartbreaking. I fell hard and fast for Tom and I adored Danica but it was the small community of San Camanez Island that added depth to this well written journey. I smiled, I swooned and I held my breath as I cheered this couple on.
December 24, 2025
Hot for Mr. Moneybags by Whitley Cox is a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance that pairs a sassy, independent heroine with a mysterious billionaire hiding behind a disguise, sparking instant fireworks and steamy tension. Their fake-identity twist evolves into genuine passion and emotional depth, blending humor, heat, and heartfelt revelations about trust and vulnerability. I loved the playful banter and Cox’s knack for balancing spicy encounters with real character growth.
Cox’s writing is fun and immersive, capturing the thrill of deception unraveling into authentic connection amid high-society drama and family secrets. The chemistry crackles from page one, with supporting characters adding witty levity without overshadowing the main couple.
While the billionaire disguise trope is familiar, Cox’s fresh voice, emotional authenticity, and satisfying payoff keep it engaging and addictive. Pacing races with spice and sweetness, though a few plot revelations could have built more suspense.
Overall, Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a hot, entertaining read for fans of contemporary romance with clever twists. I’m rating it 4 stars and look forward to more from Whitley Cox.
Cox’s writing is fun and immersive, capturing the thrill of deception unraveling into authentic connection amid high-society drama and family secrets. The chemistry crackles from page one, with supporting characters adding witty levity without overshadowing the main couple.
While the billionaire disguise trope is familiar, Cox’s fresh voice, emotional authenticity, and satisfying payoff keep it engaging and addictive. Pacing races with spice and sweetness, though a few plot revelations could have built more suspense.
Overall, Hot for Mr. Moneybags is a hot, entertaining read for fans of contemporary romance with clever twists. I’m rating it 4 stars and look forward to more from Whitley Cox.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This author is one of top three favorites for romance. Danica is one of the survivors of the cult that almost destroyed her and her cousins. Her daughter has extreme anxiety, low self-esteem and is getting bullied at school. When she hears from a friend about Tommaso she decides to pay him a visit. Tomato is a loner, his wife died twenty years ago and he has an animal rescue farm. Danica's friends' daughter has started going to his farm and it helps with her anxiety. Danica explains this to Tomasso that this might help her daughter too. He agrees. There's an instant attraction between them. But they both have ghosts of the past to work through. Theres such a wonderful menagerie of animals that cause funny lighter moments . There's also an island of strong community loyalty that they will find out will support them when they need them the most. Of course all the cousins, their significant others and all the kids. A plethora of characters that assist in making the love these two find stronger. I love their story. A must read.
December 20, 2025
After everything that Danica and her daughter Sam have been through at the hands of her ex all she wants is to help her heal and be the best mother that she can. When Danica learns about an animal rescue that may help her daughter with the difficulties she hopes it will be the answer she is seeking. When she meets Tommaso the feelings she has for him are unlike anything she has ever felt before but her past has her wondering if he is too good to be true.
Even though it was years earlier after the passing of his wife Tom hasn’t allowed many people close. The animal rescue was a way to honor her and it has given him purpose after retiring from football however when Danica and Sam come to the rescue and into his life he feels emotions he hasn’t felt in years.
This is a touching story about love, loss and moving forward. Although the reasons are very different Danica and Tom still bear the emotional scars of their past however when life gives them obstacles they prove they are so much stronger together than apart.
Even though it was years earlier after the passing of his wife Tom hasn’t allowed many people close. The animal rescue was a way to honor her and it has given him purpose after retiring from football however when Danica and Sam come to the rescue and into his life he feels emotions he hasn’t felt in years.
This is a touching story about love, loss and moving forward. Although the reasons are very different Danica and Tom still bear the emotional scars of their past however when life gives them obstacles they prove they are so much stronger together than apart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Danica, Tomasso and Samatha’s story will pull at your heartstrings. As the people of the island meet for the decision on who is finally getting the parcel of land, a secret fifth person also applied . When the fifth participant shows up, it is Tomasso Barone, ex footballer, italian and a silver fox. When Danica sees him, everything becomes a blur. Everything will come together, with Sam and Tomasso bounding over his animal refuge and their commun anxieties with the island habitant helping in every way this is a story of healing and new beginnings. The suspense and angst surrounding the land Tomasso occupies will not distract you from the steamy chemistry between Tom and Danica. Portia the pig steals the story with her attachments and friendliness but many shenanigans is to be expected from Pinata the donkey.
Review of advance copy
Whitley Cox has done it again. She has created characters that are complex but yet only require simple things such as love. Tom and Danica are an unlikely pair but the attraction is present in their first meeting. Tom is compassionate and understanding. Now he’s not without his own challenges but they ground each other in ways they can’t explain. Danica is naive in someways because of her backward upbringing and subsequent marriage. Her past is not something to be ashamed of but a success for being able to have gotten out.
Although this can be read as a stand alone, there is much satisfaction in reading the series. Story lines that have been on going have been addressed and in my opinion, very satisfying. I can’t wait to read the next in the series. It’s been set up to be the best one yet!
Although this can be read as a stand alone, there is much satisfaction in reading the series. Story lines that have been on going have been addressed and in my opinion, very satisfying. I can’t wait to read the next in the series. It’s been set up to be the best one yet!
December 29, 2025
Hot for Mr. Moneybags surprised me in the best way. The pacing was slower, but it worked perfectly for these characters. Danica and Tommaso are both more introverted, and the story gives them the space to breathe. Nothing felt rushed. There was just enough movement in the plot to keep things engaging while still allowing a real focus on emotional growth and character arcs.
The chemistry between Danica and Tommaso was a delicious slow burn. The tension builds steadily, layering heat on top of longing, and it keeps you hooked and desperate to see when they finally give in.
And if the romance and character development were not enough, this book is also packed with barnyard chaos, including Portia, the sassy pet pig who absolutely steals scenes.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with heart, humor, and a slow burn that paid off.
The chemistry between Danica and Tommaso was a delicious slow burn. The tension builds steadily, layering heat on top of longing, and it keeps you hooked and desperate to see when they finally give in.
And if the romance and character development were not enough, this book is also packed with barnyard chaos, including Portia, the sassy pet pig who absolutely steals scenes.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with heart, humor, and a slow burn that paid off.
December 7, 2025
Living in an island where everyone knows everyone, you have to create your own community to survive. That is what Danica has done for her and her daughter and its going great. Until a bully start missing with the wrong child and mama bear needs to defend herself. Tommaso is trying to live out her late wife's wish of having a sanctuary for rescued animals to live a better life. Until his land and his future gets threatened by the one person who needs to stay away. When Danica and Tomasso meet to talk about some help Danica's daughter needed for her anxity, the sparks started flying between this 2 and the rest is a wondeful story you wont want to miss. I love it all!
December 8, 2025
What I most enjoyed about this story was the caring and the empathy that it contained. Dealing with anxiety, or grief, or bullying or multiple other issues is never easy and seems to be brushed aside frequently. You dont just "get over it" by "toughing up". Danica and Tommaso show both side of the issues. Danica, by caring for a child, and having a nephew, with mental health issues and Tommaso by dealing with his own. Of course, who doesn't love a pet pig, a foal with the spirit to jump and play despite his more turbulent beginning and the whole cast of the McEvoys and the Sam Camanez community.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love farm animals, you will absolutely love how they are weaved into this story. As for myself, I am utterly besotted by cute Portia. 🐷
Those moments where Tommaso uses Italian were so hot, and I could imagine Danica combusting purely from listening to him speak in his native language. I loved that he is patient and gentle with her, treating her with the utmost care and showing her how precious she is to him.
I also enjoyed seeing the relationship between Tommaso and Danica’s daughter, Sam. Sam is another character who grows and transforms by the end of the book, and I loved her journey towards becoming more confident.
Those moments where Tommaso uses Italian were so hot, and I could imagine Danica combusting purely from listening to him speak in his native language. I loved that he is patient and gentle with her, treating her with the utmost care and showing her how precious she is to him.
I also enjoyed seeing the relationship between Tommaso and Danica’s daughter, Sam. Sam is another character who grows and transforms by the end of the book, and I loved her journey towards becoming more confident.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Danica and Tommaso's story is one that will have you captivated right to the very end. A story filled with chemistry, healing, community and connections. When Danica seeks out the help of Tommaso and his animal rescue farm to assist with her daughter's anxiety, these two find that the more time they spend together the more the attraction heats up. However it is Portia the Pig & Pinata the Donkey that steal the limelight at times in this story bringing some lightness and laugh out loud moments. The characters will steal your heart and there is just enough drama to keep you on the edge of your seat. This author always brings the heat and the steam and she never disappoints.
December 20, 2025
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Small island life great stories with a side of suspense these stories are great!! They are standalone but do have characters pop up in different books.
This is Danika and Tom’s story. Danika’s daughter Sam is struggling with her anxiety and Tom runs a rescue. Danika will try anything to help her daughter. Even hanging out at a strangers rescues. But Tom and his farm are nothing like what they expect and maybe everything they need .
This has serious topics please chekc the TWs if needed; your mental health matters 💜🫶🏻.
#whitelycoxauthor #hotformrmoneybags #risareads221reviews
Small island life great stories with a side of suspense these stories are great!! They are standalone but do have characters pop up in different books.
This is Danika and Tom’s story. Danika’s daughter Sam is struggling with her anxiety and Tom runs a rescue. Danika will try anything to help her daughter. Even hanging out at a strangers rescues. But Tom and his farm are nothing like what they expect and maybe everything they need .
This has serious topics please chekc the TWs if needed; your mental health matters 💜🫶🏻.
#whitelycoxauthor #hotformrmoneybags #risareads221reviews
December 21, 2025
What a fantastic story Hot for Mr. Money Bags is! I loved it! Tom and Danica's story is a wonderful story full of love, caring and family. Danica was trying to get help for her daughter Sam's anxiety. She heard that Tom's animal rescue helped her friends daughter. She goes to Tom to ask for his help. Taking Sam to Tom's place helped her a lot. Being together so much, their feelings grow. I love them together as a couple. They had some interference from towns people and people that wanted what they have, but together they can work it out. I love The Single Moms of San Camanez: The Vino Vixens series! Hot for Mr. Money Bags is my favourite!
December 22, 2025
Hot for Mr Moneybags is the 3rd book in the series and another wonderful addition which could be a read as a standalone, but really gains quite a bit of depth if read in order. It's also great to see so many characters from previous books set on the small island of San Camanez again! Danica and Tom make a great couple who have lots of chemistry. Add in Danica's daughter and a heap of cute animals and you've got a great background to their romance, complete with a touch of drama and suspense. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and can't wait for the next single mom to meet her match! I was fortunate to have received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
December 11, 2025
I love this series. A close knit community that looks out for their own. When bullying, low self-esteem, self harm and anxiety appear in school, things need to change. It is not okay for these thing to ever happen. Standing up for your children and getting to the bottom of it before it becomes an issue later in life. Danica meeting the hot, sexy, charming footballer Tommoso, spices things up for both of them even if neither feels ready for it after all they have been thru. Karma takes.its turn!
December 11, 2025
What a great story this was! Tom is such a wonderful character with the biggest heart, running his animal rescue and spoiling his emotional support pig Portia. Piñata, the devilish donkey, should be glad Tom is so kind lol. That donkey cracked me up! Danica meets Tom because she is trying to do everything she can to help her daughter. I loved the connection and chemistry between Tom and Danica, a little slow burn with explosive steam once they get there. Some funny family moments, a few bullies and a little bit of drama round out this unputdownable book.
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed Tomasso and Danica’s story. Dania has survived so much that it almost destroyed her and when her daughter begins to be bullied at school it’s time to take matters into her own hands and do something to help Samantha. When Danica is given information on Tomasso’s farm, she thinks this will help with her daughter’s anxiety and when they come face to face the spark is instant and the attraction off the charts. These two both have pasts that seem to always be on the side line. Their story is amazing and you need to read to see how it all unfolds.
December 5, 2025
This book is amazing! I absolutely loved Tommaso and Danica’s story. She finds him after talking to another parent of a child that has anxiety like her daughter does. She goes to Tommaso’s farm talk with him about letting her daughter come and see his horses. Well of course there is mischief involved and whether or not they can pull thru is always in question. Also the sexy times are hot!
All in all a must read for me!
All in all a must read for me!
December 20, 2025
The latest instalment of this series did not disappoint at all, I have read all of the books based on this little island and I just love how the whole storyline has interwoven between the two mini series so far. The books are always well written, with enough happening to keep the reader entertained.
The character Arcs are developing as the story line continues and this is something I enjoy in a book series.
I can not wait for the next installment.
The character Arcs are developing as the story line continues and this is something I enjoy in a book series.
I can not wait for the next installment.
December 23, 2025
All I can say is wow! This had me sitting with tissues pretty much from the start. Between animals, family, and bullies, I needed to wipe my eyes frequently. There were plenty of laughs, smiles, and swooning throughout to balance it all out. I loved the connection between Danica and Tommaso from the start. The attraction was there, and neither denied that fact but put it to the side. Danica was another woman with the shared past trauma, and she was one heck of a mother. Tommaso had his own history and problems that Danica felt she needed to help with. Loved this story!
I received a copy through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
January 11, 2026
This series keeps getting better and better with each book.
I love your wicked sense of humour Whitley and I get it all.
Tomasso Barone can put his shoes under my bed my day and I’m very jealous is Danica as she gets to be with him everyday.
I love how he had opened up for having Danica’s kid Sam be with the animals.
Animals are good for a lot of things and this is one of them.
I received a free copy of this book and I’m leaving a columns honest review.
I love your wicked sense of humour Whitley and I get it all.
Tomasso Barone can put his shoes under my bed my day and I’m very jealous is Danica as she gets to be with him everyday.
I love how he had opened up for having Danica’s kid Sam be with the animals.
Animals are good for a lot of things and this is one of them.
I received a free copy of this book and I’m leaving a columns honest review.
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