Overcome By The Restaurateur

by Heather Hallman

Mortified doesn’t even begin to describe how it feels knowing Wes Dalman, owner of Seattle’s buzziest restaurant, MOSS, read my texts.

I called him the “hot boss” and the “ideal” man to show me the ropes in bed. Not like real ropes or anything. I’m not into that. At least I don’t think I am.

Frankly, I’m not sure what I’m into.

At thirty-two, I’ve made it through a decade of self-induced misery. I’m discovering the enduring me, the woman I’ve always been, despite punishing my body for being less than perfect.

And I’m convinced Wes is the guy to help me discover the sensual parts of myself.

But Seattle’s restaurateur-playboy with the sad, thoughtful eyes thinks he’s too old, too jaded, and too cynical to mess around with me.

I disagree.

I suspect he struggles with expressing his true needs as much as I do. We’re attracted to each other, and I don’t see any harm in us giving in to those feelings.

A bet and a dinner date later, I believe he’s coming around to the idea.

If you like short, steamy reads about curious nannies and the restaurateurs who show them the ropes, you’ll love Sparrow’s Nannies.

75 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2025

About the author

Heather writes contemporary short romance and historical romance set in Meiji-era Japan. She has a doctoral degree in cultural anthropology, which comes in handy for navigating life in Tokyo where she lives with her family.

Things Heather loves include weather forecasts (gotta be prepared), Baltimore Ravens and the O’s (hometown loves), and spending time outdoors.

Feel free to chat her up on Instagram and Facebook, or send an email heather@heatherhallman.com.

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Website: https://www.heatherhallman.com/

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Reviews

[Kate W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super short story with MC's deep past events that lead Savannah and Wes to find how to be together. They fear what will be a future and find some steamy intimacy. I enjoyed this book.

[Sandy C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Both MCs had overcome struggles, decisions of a different kind in the past. Some of the consequences still linger, needing a reminder of what was accomplished, not to let doubts and fears in. It's brave that despite some insecurities, Savannah, finding herself in a somewhat awkward situation and with some help, is determined to find out if there's a connection with Wes—an attraction worth exploring. Could there be a relationship, preferably in the long run? What I know of some of their lessons is that she gained more mentally, like confidence in herself and her body, which seemed flawed to her, the aftermath of physical and mental healing.
What a luck it is to find someone who overlooks flaws and gives confidence.
Happy for them to find each other, making a life together, fulfilling their dreams.
I'm not fully convinced about her thoughts on kids, but if she wants to dedicate her time to her work and reach her goals, maybe then it would be too late to have them at all. As long as there are no regrets.



I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an entertaining short story that will challenge a bit of your concepts in a way, This story is all about two damaged souls that find themselves at a later time in their lives after mistakes and choices have been made. The story showcases Savannah, an eating disorder survivor trying to make changes in her life. Her boss Wes discovers her attraction to him but years of pain and past experiences have taught him to be guarded. A night out, and a bet makes them lower their walls, and the passion takes over. But is what comes after that will play with your heart as they both are faced with realizations that might challenge their beliefs and sentiments. An interesting mature story!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good story about two people coming together, each person with different issues, that have shaped who they are! This is a short story and I do not do spoilers or blurb repeats. I will just say that it is a story that I enjoyed and would recommend. I Really Liked It!!! I Recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[A Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overcome By The Restaurateur is book 2 of Sparrow's Nannies Seattle series. The story is a steamy, interesting, exciting romance. The characters were likable and charming. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PW · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story started a little like something is missing. The more I read l like the quirky conversations Savvy has with her alter ego. This book does an excellent job of how these girlfriends get along. To add to the story someone, Savvy, wants “lessons” from her boss Wes. This book is a fun read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Savannah sends some texts to Olivia about Wes, and he reads them! Embarrassing! Then she decides that she's going to pursue her crush, even though 'Bizzy' keeps talking to her!
Wes doesn't see her as she sees herself. He's enamoured.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Another great read in the Nanny series from Heather.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great 😊

This was a quick read & new author for me. Loved the character build & sexual slow burn tension between the characters!