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Sweet Surrender
She’s the boss at work. At home? Not so much.
At work, Eliza is a high-powered COO. People do what she wants, when she wants, and thank her for the opportunity. At home, she’s a single mom to eight-year-old twins who make the terrible twos look like angel years. Struggling to juggle work and family, Eliza is desperate for support.
After a breakup, Rowyn’s plan to finally settle down is a bust. So, when she gets a call about a job nobody else will touch, she uproots herself once again to be a live-in nanny. It's just another temporary gig—until the door opens and she’s staring at Eliza, the stranger she shared an unforgettable night with.
Now under the same roof, Rowyn understands why no one else wanted this job. Eliza’s take-no-prisoners attitude just isn’t going to work with her kids—or with Rowyn. Navigating family demands, tight schedules, and sexual tension that crackles hotter than the summer heat, can Rowyn convince Eliza that heart and home is the sweetest surrender?
At work, Eliza is a high-powered COO. People do what she wants, when she wants, and thank her for the opportunity. At home, she’s a single mom to eight-year-old twins who make the terrible twos look like angel years. Struggling to juggle work and family, Eliza is desperate for support.
After a breakup, Rowyn’s plan to finally settle down is a bust. So, when she gets a call about a job nobody else will touch, she uproots herself once again to be a live-in nanny. It's just another temporary gig—until the door opens and she’s staring at Eliza, the stranger she shared an unforgettable night with.
Now under the same roof, Rowyn understands why no one else wanted this job. Eliza’s take-no-prisoners attitude just isn’t going to work with her kids—or with Rowyn. Navigating family demands, tight schedules, and sexual tension that crackles hotter than the summer heat, can Rowyn convince Eliza that heart and home is the sweetest surrender?
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
J.J. Hale
6 books38 followersJ.J. Hale (she/her) has been devouring books since she was able to hold one and has dreamt about publishing romance novels with queer leading ladies since she discovered such a thing existed, in her late teens.
The last few years have been filled with embracing and understanding her neurodiversity, which has expanded the dream to include representing kick-ass queer, neurodivergent women who find their happily ever afters.
Jess lives in the south of Ireland, and when she’s not daydreaming, she works in technology, plays with LEGO, and (according to the kids) fixes things.
The last few years have been filled with embracing and understanding her neurodiversity, which has expanded the dream to include representing kick-ass queer, neurodivergent women who find their happily ever afters.
Jess lives in the south of Ireland, and when she’s not daydreaming, she works in technology, plays with LEGO, and (according to the kids) fixes things.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 25, 2026
A sweet, low-angst, one night to forever, workplace, falling for the nanny romance. What makes this one truly stand out is the excellent neurodivergence rep. And let’s be honest, a boatload of sexual tension never hurt either, right?
Eliza worked hard to become the top dog at work. That does mean that she needs a nanny to help take care of her chaos demon twins. Somehow they’ve gone through a handful of nannies in as many years and again a new one will start tomorrow. After a harsh day at work and some drinks at the bar, Eliza gets wooed into a scorching hot one night stand with a gorgeous specimen named Wyn. Guess who turns up to move in as the new nanny the following morning? Yep, Wyn, or Rowyn as she’s officially called.
Rowyn has become a very highly sought after nanny. As a woman with ADHD she knows how to work with kids that are deigned unruly and chaotic by most of society, but are mostly just misunderstood because their brain works differently. She knows how to make their brain work for them instead of forcing them to act within the ‘normal’ rules and expectations. Eliza, or Elle as she called herself last night, being her new boss is a highly distracting development, but Amelia and Elliot need her. And, maybe, Eliza does too..
The premise of the hot one night stand turning up the next day as the new nanny is not new or surprising in any way, but what makes this a really good read is the care and patience that Hale has taken to develop these characters. The neurospicy rep is excellent and shows in depth knowledge of all the colorful nuances that neurodivergence embodies.
I really enjoyed Eliza’s journey of learning about herself and her kids. She might be a power suit personified, but her kids are truly her world. Eliza sees the difference Rowyn makes in their lives and hers and does her absolute best to adjust to all the change.
Another thing that sets this story apart is the fact that Eliza and Rowyn don’t deny their attraction for long. They find a way to have the best of both worlds. Let me tell you, the evolution of the spicy side of their relationship is delicious! It’s also not just s*x but another way their relationship equalizes the perceived imbalance between them.
Sweet Surrender is simply a really good story. Especially if you are or have people in your life that are neurodivergent, please don’t hesitate to pick this one up!
Eliza worked hard to become the top dog at work. That does mean that she needs a nanny to help take care of her chaos demon twins. Somehow they’ve gone through a handful of nannies in as many years and again a new one will start tomorrow. After a harsh day at work and some drinks at the bar, Eliza gets wooed into a scorching hot one night stand with a gorgeous specimen named Wyn. Guess who turns up to move in as the new nanny the following morning? Yep, Wyn, or Rowyn as she’s officially called.
Rowyn has become a very highly sought after nanny. As a woman with ADHD she knows how to work with kids that are deigned unruly and chaotic by most of society, but are mostly just misunderstood because their brain works differently. She knows how to make their brain work for them instead of forcing them to act within the ‘normal’ rules and expectations. Eliza, or Elle as she called herself last night, being her new boss is a highly distracting development, but Amelia and Elliot need her. And, maybe, Eliza does too..
The premise of the hot one night stand turning up the next day as the new nanny is not new or surprising in any way, but what makes this a really good read is the care and patience that Hale has taken to develop these characters. The neurospicy rep is excellent and shows in depth knowledge of all the colorful nuances that neurodivergence embodies.
I really enjoyed Eliza’s journey of learning about herself and her kids. She might be a power suit personified, but her kids are truly her world. Eliza sees the difference Rowyn makes in their lives and hers and does her absolute best to adjust to all the change.
Another thing that sets this story apart is the fact that Eliza and Rowyn don’t deny their attraction for long. They find a way to have the best of both worlds. Let me tell you, the evolution of the spicy side of their relationship is delicious! It’s also not just s*x but another way their relationship equalizes the perceived imbalance between them.
Sweet Surrender is simply a really good story. Especially if you are or have people in your life that are neurodivergent, please don’t hesitate to pick this one up!
May 31, 2026
After Eliza has a wonderfully hot one night stand, she's on a high. But she has to meet the new nanny for her two 8 yr old twins. When she opens the door, there stands Rowyn, her one night stand.
This is an outstanding book, there's many kinds of love, a mother's love, the children's love of their mother, and the new nanny. Neurodivergentcy is discussed and handled with kindness. A gorgeous age gap love story!
This is a fabulous book! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
This is an outstanding book, there's many kinds of love, a mother's love, the children's love of their mother, and the new nanny. Neurodivergentcy is discussed and handled with kindness. A gorgeous age gap love story!
This is a fabulous book! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
May 5, 2026
I loved every minute of this book. A delightful take on the "falls for the nanny" trope filled with vulnerable and mature conversations, and some really sexy love scenes. The role reversal in these scenes was especially fun!
This was my first book by J.J. Hale and what I loved the most was the inclusion and realistic portrayal of neurodivergence in many forms. It was a beautiful perspective and helped me understand some people in my life a little better.
While everything wrapped up nicely in the end, I was hoping for more. Specifically, I wanted to see more of Eliza and Rowyn as a couple around the kids rather than fully skipping that. The relationship each women had with the kids was equally important to me as the romance, and with all the tough conversations the protagonists had throughout the story, I had hoped and wished it extended to revealing the relationship to the kids and the potential aftermath of that news. For this reason, the ending felt rushed for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by J.J. Hale and what I loved the most was the inclusion and realistic portrayal of neurodivergence in many forms. It was a beautiful perspective and helped me understand some people in my life a little better.
While everything wrapped up nicely in the end, I was hoping for more. Specifically, I wanted to see more of Eliza and Rowyn as a couple around the kids rather than fully skipping that. The relationship each women had with the kids was equally important to me as the romance, and with all the tough conversations the protagonists had throughout the story, I had hoped and wished it extended to revealing the relationship to the kids and the potential aftermath of that news. For this reason, the ending felt rushed for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2026
Eliza Marsh met Wyn at a bar and they had a one night stand. She did not know that Wyn was Rowyn McNeil, her children’s new nanny, and was surprised when Rowyn turned up at her doorstep the next day. Rowyn is great with the children, and the mum. The attraction was certainly still there, but making it work could be difficult given that one was the boss and one was the employee.
This was a really good book. Both MC were really likeable. I loved how direct Rowyn is. Eliza has quite some things to learn but she is very willing to and it was really nice to see her grow in character. It was also nice to see how both MC bonded with the children.
Once I started the book, it was quite hard to put it down. Good read and would recommend for sure.
This was a really good book. Both MC were really likeable. I loved how direct Rowyn is. Eliza has quite some things to learn but she is very willing to and it was really nice to see her grow in character. It was also nice to see how both MC bonded with the children.
Once I started the book, it was quite hard to put it down. Good read and would recommend for sure.
May 20, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books and author JJ Hale for this ARC. I am thrilled to share my honest reviews.
This was a fantastic read that I devoured in one evening! I very much enjoyed this delicious age gap sapphic romance with a forbidden workplace romance taboo. I have never read a sapphic love story where our mom falls for the hot nanny before and was happily entertained from beginning to end. I loved this element and it was done to perfection but I must say there was so much more to unpack. I found the found family warmth to be quite moving and was surprised at how layered this book is. Sweet Surrender is a sweet and spicy quick sapphic romance that made me smile and swoon.
Eliza is a successful COO and works tirelessly to be the best at her job and the best mom she can be. She is intelligent, ambitious and a consummate professional. She values structure and embraces control but it becomes clear that just doesn't work at home. She is a bad ass at work but is definitely overwhelmed at home and hires a nanny to help raise her twins, who are cute but quite a handful. The nanny ends up being Rowyn aka Wyn, the sexy woman she had a one night stand with the night before. Ha! I loved the shock and surprise when Eliza opened the door for Rowyn! I ate it up! What ensues is a wonderful love story that accomplishes a lot in a shorter read.
Rowyn is warm, patient and absolutely fantastic with the kids. She embraces her job and the twins with her whole heart. She is able to bond with them and help them excel in a way no one else ever has because she helps to nurture them with their neurodivergence viewed as fact rather than a nuisance. I loved the sort of push pull dynamic with Eliza and Rowyn but was happy that the tension was resolved rather quietly. This isn't a long slow burn and despite the unorthodox circumstances, the two develop a wonderul connection. Their dynamic was just wonderful from the beginning and the chemistry between them is just so hot. I loved the spicy intimate scenes from the mystery surrounding the one night stand to the more emotional latter scenes, they were written so well. I loved that Rowyn sort of gently pushes Eliza toward being more vulnerable and what they develop is so much more meaningful and real. I really liked Eliza and Rowyn together and felt like they added so much to each other's lives. I especially enjoyed the bond that developed between Rowyn and the twins because it sets the groundwork to establish them as a family down the road. This was such a rewarding read.
I enjoyed the writing and found it to be easy to read, yet emotional and intimate. The entire book is relatively short so I was impressed by how much Hale accomplished in such a short read. Yes, I do wish we got more of the two of them happily together with the kids but that is more about me connecting to the characters than anything else. For me, it's always a good sign when I wish there was more to read. The writing is straightforward and the dialogue helped to really sell the connection between Eliza and Rowyn. They were so natural together and I believed in them and their relationship.
Sweet Surrender was a sweet, sexxxy read with a lot of emotion, humor and warmth. I was happily entertained and recommend it for anyone looking for a spicy, heartwarming read with a hint of taboo and healthy does of heart.
This was a fantastic read that I devoured in one evening! I very much enjoyed this delicious age gap sapphic romance with a forbidden workplace romance taboo. I have never read a sapphic love story where our mom falls for the hot nanny before and was happily entertained from beginning to end. I loved this element and it was done to perfection but I must say there was so much more to unpack. I found the found family warmth to be quite moving and was surprised at how layered this book is. Sweet Surrender is a sweet and spicy quick sapphic romance that made me smile and swoon.
Eliza is a successful COO and works tirelessly to be the best at her job and the best mom she can be. She is intelligent, ambitious and a consummate professional. She values structure and embraces control but it becomes clear that just doesn't work at home. She is a bad ass at work but is definitely overwhelmed at home and hires a nanny to help raise her twins, who are cute but quite a handful. The nanny ends up being Rowyn aka Wyn, the sexy woman she had a one night stand with the night before. Ha! I loved the shock and surprise when Eliza opened the door for Rowyn! I ate it up! What ensues is a wonderful love story that accomplishes a lot in a shorter read.
Rowyn is warm, patient and absolutely fantastic with the kids. She embraces her job and the twins with her whole heart. She is able to bond with them and help them excel in a way no one else ever has because she helps to nurture them with their neurodivergence viewed as fact rather than a nuisance. I loved the sort of push pull dynamic with Eliza and Rowyn but was happy that the tension was resolved rather quietly. This isn't a long slow burn and despite the unorthodox circumstances, the two develop a wonderul connection. Their dynamic was just wonderful from the beginning and the chemistry between them is just so hot. I loved the spicy intimate scenes from the mystery surrounding the one night stand to the more emotional latter scenes, they were written so well. I loved that Rowyn sort of gently pushes Eliza toward being more vulnerable and what they develop is so much more meaningful and real. I really liked Eliza and Rowyn together and felt like they added so much to each other's lives. I especially enjoyed the bond that developed between Rowyn and the twins because it sets the groundwork to establish them as a family down the road. This was such a rewarding read.
I enjoyed the writing and found it to be easy to read, yet emotional and intimate. The entire book is relatively short so I was impressed by how much Hale accomplished in such a short read. Yes, I do wish we got more of the two of them happily together with the kids but that is more about me connecting to the characters than anything else. For me, it's always a good sign when I wish there was more to read. The writing is straightforward and the dialogue helped to really sell the connection between Eliza and Rowyn. They were so natural together and I believed in them and their relationship.
Sweet Surrender was a sweet, sexxxy read with a lot of emotion, humor and warmth. I was happily entertained and recommend it for anyone looking for a spicy, heartwarming read with a hint of taboo and healthy does of heart.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed all the characters involved, Rowyn and Eliza, Amelia and Elliot, Avery, and especially Henry. I don't say that very often about most men so Henry actually being supportive of his ex and being there for her and the kids was very refreshing and made him seem like an amazing guy. Even though I think the kids were both a little too smart for their age, they were really delightful and funny so I could see why Rowyn got attached so quickly. Avery also seemed like a cool person, for someone who went through a lot in their childhood, they gave really good advice when Rowyn needed it.
I loved Rowyn and Eliza’s first encounter and the chemistry that never seemed to fade. It was especially hot how Rowyn took charge and took care of Eliza in the bedroom since her work required her to be an icy, take charge, power woman. Despite the age gap, they really seemed to understand each other and know what the other needed. While I definitely appreciated all the mature conversations between them, especially regarding something really hard to talk about and even harder to understand (neurodivergence), I found it almost to be a little too perfect that it came off unbelievable. Rarely do people know exactly what to say or how to properly handle these situations or know what strategies would work best and so it felt like Eliza came to and accepted the diagnosis too quickly without having enough time to fully process, especially when it came to her own diagnosis. I would have also liked to have seen how Amelia and Elliot would react to being told this about themselves.
I’m extremely sad how abruptly the book ended though. Especially for there to be such an emphasis on how the kids would react to Eliza telling them that Rowyn was her girlfriend, we never get to see that. The epilogue didn’t even tell us if Amelia ended up winning her big race. While the build up and sexual tension was great, it felt like even more of a let down to not be able to see them in the relationship they both fought so hard for. I wanted to see Rowyn’s family get involved, I want to know if there will be a wedding in their future, what the kids will grow up to be like, and even if Henry finds his special person! So overall, I absolutely adored all the characters, appreciated the
ADHD and neurodivergence rep, and loved how Rowyn never tried to “fix” any of them, but ultimately was hoping for more of a satisfying/completed ending that would have made the relationship and family dynamic feel more solidified rather than open to interpretation.
3.5 stars
I loved Rowyn and Eliza’s first encounter and the chemistry that never seemed to fade. It was especially hot how Rowyn took charge and took care of Eliza in the bedroom since her work required her to be an icy, take charge, power woman. Despite the age gap, they really seemed to understand each other and know what the other needed. While I definitely appreciated all the mature conversations between them, especially regarding something really hard to talk about and even harder to understand (neurodivergence), I found it almost to be a little too perfect that it came off unbelievable. Rarely do people know exactly what to say or how to properly handle these situations or know what strategies would work best and so it felt like Eliza came to and accepted the diagnosis too quickly without having enough time to fully process, especially when it came to her own diagnosis. I would have also liked to have seen how Amelia and Elliot would react to being told this about themselves.
I’m extremely sad how abruptly the book ended though. Especially for there to be such an emphasis on how the kids would react to Eliza telling them that Rowyn was her girlfriend, we never get to see that. The epilogue didn’t even tell us if Amelia ended up winning her big race. While the build up and sexual tension was great, it felt like even more of a let down to not be able to see them in the relationship they both fought so hard for. I wanted to see Rowyn’s family get involved, I want to know if there will be a wedding in their future, what the kids will grow up to be like, and even if Henry finds his special person! So overall, I absolutely adored all the characters, appreciated the
ADHD and neurodivergence rep, and loved how Rowyn never tried to “fix” any of them, but ultimately was hoping for more of a satisfying/completed ending that would have made the relationship and family dynamic feel more solidified rather than open to interpretation.
3.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Short Summary
It was supposed to be one night, just sex and never seeing each other again, despite how incredible the night together was.
Then Eliza opens the door to meet her chaotic twins’ new nanny – to Rowyn, her hook up from the night before.
How Eliza and Rowyn navigate this wrinkle is where the story takes off with one night to forever and forbidden workplace romance vibes.
Review
I don’t tend to gravitate towards books with kids as a central point of the story, but the idea of hooking up with your nanny before she became the nanny caught my interest. And I’m so glad I read it because it was such a heartwarming and sexy story where neurodivergence was worked with rather than ‘fixed’.
I love the awkward meet ups after a one-night stand and @JJHale made the tension and confusion so palpable I was cringing as Eliza and Rowyn see each other again. It set the stage so perfectly for the story to play out.
The tension was so good! It kept building between Rowyn and Eliza where it seemed neither of them could control it.
The sleeping with the nanny theme was handled well. I think we can all agree it could have been gross with a sense of power imbalance and age gap, but that’s not what happens here. Boundaries are set and agreed to, including a very specific power play where Rowyn, the nanny, is in control. I won’t tell you where, but it may lead to some open-door spice!
There is such a healthy relationship between Eliza and her ex-husband which was nice to see the friendship after divorce rather than toxicity where the kids aren’t supported.
Rowyn is fantastic working with the kids to understand how their mind works and putting in strategies to support that rather than an expectation that all people learn the same and should behave the same. How subtle she is about getting the other adults to change their behaviour to better support the entire family was great.
The tropes of age gap, forbidden workplace romance, and one-night stand do not really do justice to the characters. It is a lovely story about challenging societal expectations and being better humans to create a family that is kind, loving, and supportive.
Thank you to Bold Stroke Books for providing an advanced copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It was supposed to be one night, just sex and never seeing each other again, despite how incredible the night together was.
Then Eliza opens the door to meet her chaotic twins’ new nanny – to Rowyn, her hook up from the night before.
How Eliza and Rowyn navigate this wrinkle is where the story takes off with one night to forever and forbidden workplace romance vibes.
Review
I don’t tend to gravitate towards books with kids as a central point of the story, but the idea of hooking up with your nanny before she became the nanny caught my interest. And I’m so glad I read it because it was such a heartwarming and sexy story where neurodivergence was worked with rather than ‘fixed’.
I love the awkward meet ups after a one-night stand and @JJHale made the tension and confusion so palpable I was cringing as Eliza and Rowyn see each other again. It set the stage so perfectly for the story to play out.
The tension was so good! It kept building between Rowyn and Eliza where it seemed neither of them could control it.
The sleeping with the nanny theme was handled well. I think we can all agree it could have been gross with a sense of power imbalance and age gap, but that’s not what happens here. Boundaries are set and agreed to, including a very specific power play where Rowyn, the nanny, is in control. I won’t tell you where, but it may lead to some open-door spice!
There is such a healthy relationship between Eliza and her ex-husband which was nice to see the friendship after divorce rather than toxicity where the kids aren’t supported.
Rowyn is fantastic working with the kids to understand how their mind works and putting in strategies to support that rather than an expectation that all people learn the same and should behave the same. How subtle she is about getting the other adults to change their behaviour to better support the entire family was great.
The tropes of age gap, forbidden workplace romance, and one-night stand do not really do justice to the characters. It is a lovely story about challenging societal expectations and being better humans to create a family that is kind, loving, and supportive.
Thank you to Bold Stroke Books for providing an advanced copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
This is my first book by J.J. Hale but it won’t be my last! This was such a good, quick read. It’s always interesting to see how authors go about the power dynamics and complications of the “falling for the nanny” trope. The author did an amazing job at this. Both MCs had a lot of emotional intelligence and were able to have conversations that were hard but needed to be had. It was refreshing to see.
I also liked that Eliza and her ex husband got along and were friends. A lot of times, the dad is a POS and a source of angst in books like this, but not with Sweet Surrender. Henry was lovely and supportive.
This is definitely not a slow burn. While it does take place over months, both MCs move pretty fast. Usually I don’t like this, but the author did a good job at making it believable and realistic. I would’ve liked a little bit more in the epilogue and maybe more into the future. It would be cool to see where they were in a year or so. We only get three months into the future so the dynamics between the MCs and the kids are pretty much the same.
Something that surprised me was the neurodivergent representation. I wasn’t expecting it and it was done so well. It was enlightening to see how ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent conditions present in people. We get to see that through all the characters-- the kiddos, Eliza, Rowyn. There were several quotes that made the social worker in me happy to see.
I loved this! It was on the shorter side but I loved that. It was exactly what I needed! Sweet Surrender is a solid 4 stars!
This is my first book by J.J. Hale but it won’t be my last! This was such a good, quick read. It’s always interesting to see how authors go about the power dynamics and complications of the “falling for the nanny” trope. The author did an amazing job at this. Both MCs had a lot of emotional intelligence and were able to have conversations that were hard but needed to be had. It was refreshing to see.
I also liked that Eliza and her ex husband got along and were friends. A lot of times, the dad is a POS and a source of angst in books like this, but not with Sweet Surrender. Henry was lovely and supportive.
This is definitely not a slow burn. While it does take place over months, both MCs move pretty fast. Usually I don’t like this, but the author did a good job at making it believable and realistic. I would’ve liked a little bit more in the epilogue and maybe more into the future. It would be cool to see where they were in a year or so. We only get three months into the future so the dynamics between the MCs and the kids are pretty much the same.
Something that surprised me was the neurodivergent representation. I wasn’t expecting it and it was done so well. It was enlightening to see how ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent conditions present in people. We get to see that through all the characters-- the kiddos, Eliza, Rowyn. There were several quotes that made the social worker in me happy to see.
I loved this! It was on the shorter side but I loved that. It was exactly what I needed! Sweet Surrender is a solid 4 stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⋆˙✮ 4
I can’t lie… a nanny/boss trope is such a guilty pleasure of mine, and JJ Hale did it just right! Rowyn and Eliza had undeniable chemistry from the very beginning at a hotel bar, but their one night stand turned into something else when Rowyn showed up at Eliza’s door the next day as her new nanny. This book had a lot of aspects that tick my boxes: age-gap, “forbidden” love, and while it’s a dealbreaker for some, I actually really like a book where kids are involved.
What stood out to me the most was how real the characters felt. I loved how the author tied the topic of neurodivergence to the book without it feeling like it was overdone for the sake of moving the plot along. It was done thoughtfully, and as someone who has ADHD, it was really nice to see representation that felt authentic. The relationship between Henry and Eliza was also refreshing because the other parent in a divorce is often characterized as a villain in books, but seeing them have love for each other without being in love is a side you don’t see often.
I do wish there were more glimpses of Rowyn and Eliza’s established relationship before moving straight to the epilogue. For example, I would’ve liked to see how Eliza told the kids about Rowyn and how the dynamic changed (or didn’t) between the four of them.
Overall, this was short & sweet, and while it was my first book from this author, it definitely won’t be my last.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
I can’t lie… a nanny/boss trope is such a guilty pleasure of mine, and JJ Hale did it just right! Rowyn and Eliza had undeniable chemistry from the very beginning at a hotel bar, but their one night stand turned into something else when Rowyn showed up at Eliza’s door the next day as her new nanny. This book had a lot of aspects that tick my boxes: age-gap, “forbidden” love, and while it’s a dealbreaker for some, I actually really like a book where kids are involved.
What stood out to me the most was how real the characters felt. I loved how the author tied the topic of neurodivergence to the book without it feeling like it was overdone for the sake of moving the plot along. It was done thoughtfully, and as someone who has ADHD, it was really nice to see representation that felt authentic. The relationship between Henry and Eliza was also refreshing because the other parent in a divorce is often characterized as a villain in books, but seeing them have love for each other without being in love is a side you don’t see often.
I do wish there were more glimpses of Rowyn and Eliza’s established relationship before moving straight to the epilogue. For example, I would’ve liked to see how Eliza told the kids about Rowyn and how the dynamic changed (or didn’t) between the four of them.
Overall, this was short & sweet, and while it was my first book from this author, it definitely won’t be my last.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
May 18, 2026
Eliza is a busy, organized COO. Her work is demanding. She is also the mother of twin eight year olds whose behavior has caused three nannies in the last year to leave. In an unusual move for her she meets a woman at a bar and shares a passionate one night stand. She is shocked hours later to find the same woman on her doorstep as her new nanny. Rowyn is a skilled nanny and has moved cross country for her new position.
This is so much fun. Rowyn is truly a super nanny, picking up quickly on the children’s needs and explaining her actions with them. I love the honest depiction of neurodiversity in various forms. The power balance is hard to overcome but Hale handles it with finesse. I also like that Eliza’s ex husband is a decent man and father. (Too often exes are made to be villains.) For a short novel, just over 200 pages, I felt I got a full story. I enjoyed the spice, and fun banter. If anything, everyone is almost a little too perfect. I would have liked to see Rowyn interact with the kids as the girlfriend since that was a big concern. But the children were already accepting her in their world. And it is a sign that I cared about the characters when I realized I was disappointed that I didn’t get to know the results of the daughter’s big race. LOL.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
This is so much fun. Rowyn is truly a super nanny, picking up quickly on the children’s needs and explaining her actions with them. I love the honest depiction of neurodiversity in various forms. The power balance is hard to overcome but Hale handles it with finesse. I also like that Eliza’s ex husband is a decent man and father. (Too often exes are made to be villains.) For a short novel, just over 200 pages, I felt I got a full story. I enjoyed the spice, and fun banter. If anything, everyone is almost a little too perfect. I would have liked to see Rowyn interact with the kids as the girlfriend since that was a big concern. But the children were already accepting her in their world. And it is a sign that I cared about the characters when I realized I was disappointed that I didn’t get to know the results of the daughter’s big race. LOL.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
i cant even comprehend a situation like the one that happened to eliza when she opened the door to her new nanny and there was her one night stand staring at her in shock.....
eliza is a COO at work in a high powered job. she takes no prisoners .... but at home she is the mother of twins and they rule the roost.....
they have gone through so many nannies that this is their last call
rowyn is the nanny they send in to do the worst of the worst..... but even she was shocked to see eliza that day ..... how to keep her job and her sanity when the night before still plays with her head..... but get on they must
omg this storyline had me in fits of laughter at times..... some very funny one liners... but it was seeing how the storyline played out with the two main characters that held my attention and i was hoping that they would work things out between them
man oh man this book had it all and more.... couldnt and wouldnt put it down till i had finished it to know what happened between them all... and it doesnt disappoint
looking forward to the next book by this author as i am fast becoming a fan
i cant even comprehend a situation like the one that happened to eliza when she opened the door to her new nanny and there was her one night stand staring at her in shock.....
eliza is a COO at work in a high powered job. she takes no prisoners .... but at home she is the mother of twins and they rule the roost.....
they have gone through so many nannies that this is their last call
rowyn is the nanny they send in to do the worst of the worst..... but even she was shocked to see eliza that day ..... how to keep her job and her sanity when the night before still plays with her head..... but get on they must
omg this storyline had me in fits of laughter at times..... some very funny one liners... but it was seeing how the storyline played out with the two main characters that held my attention and i was hoping that they would work things out between them
man oh man this book had it all and more.... couldnt and wouldnt put it down till i had finished it to know what happened between them all... and it doesnt disappoint
looking forward to the next book by this author as i am fast becoming a fan
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eliza (Elle) is a high-powered COO who is at a work event in the city when she meets Rowyn (Wyn) at the hotel bar. They have an unforgettable one-night stand where Wyn takes control of the situation and leaves Elle to surrender. The next day Eliza returns home to greet the new nanny for her twin eight-year-old children, Amelia and Elliot, when she is shocked to see Rowyn is Wyn, her new nanny. They agree that one night together will remain exactly that for the sake of the children and the power dynamic involved.
In addition to a relationship that eventually develops between Eliza and Rowyn, the book also focuses on Rowyn's discovery that Amelia dn Elliot are neurodivergent and how she utilizes that fact in their daily care to set boundaries and help improve their confidence and performance. I also enjoyed the relationship that Eliza had with her ex-husband, Henry. It seemed that they had set aside their differences and focused on the best interests of their children. Finally, there were some sexy scenes between Eliza (Elle) and Rowyn (Wyn) both during their "one-night stand" and then later when Rowyn had moved into the house. 4 stars
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In addition to a relationship that eventually develops between Eliza and Rowyn, the book also focuses on Rowyn's discovery that Amelia dn Elliot are neurodivergent and how she utilizes that fact in their daily care to set boundaries and help improve their confidence and performance. I also enjoyed the relationship that Eliza had with her ex-husband, Henry. It seemed that they had set aside their differences and focused on the best interests of their children. Finally, there were some sexy scenes between Eliza (Elle) and Rowyn (Wyn) both during their "one-night stand" and then later when Rowyn had moved into the house. 4 stars
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a sucker for a book with kids, to me such an enhancement with that addition. Even of the romance in the book can frustrate you as a reader, if the MCs are good with kids, their own or someone else’s, I know that there is still hope. That is for sure a fact in this book that I really enjoyed reading even if perhaps a bit on the short side and full character development not really on page.
The busy single mum and COO Eliza really needs help with her neurodivergent twins and Bronwyn is amazing from the start with her very special twins. It takes a while for Eliza to accept how Bronwyn handles the kids and how to deal with her feelings for Bronwyn, she acts like an ass. Fortunately, Eliza amends her ways and not only sees how good Bronwyn is with the kids and that she is an amazing human being, but also that she wants more. Sex easy, but can they ever be more, that is an interesting journey to follow.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave an honest review voluntarily.
The busy single mum and COO Eliza really needs help with her neurodivergent twins and Bronwyn is amazing from the start with her very special twins. It takes a while for Eliza to accept how Bronwyn handles the kids and how to deal with her feelings for Bronwyn, she acts like an ass. Fortunately, Eliza amends her ways and not only sees how good Bronwyn is with the kids and that she is an amazing human being, but also that she wants more. Sex easy, but can they ever be more, that is an interesting journey to follow.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave an honest review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sweet Surrender by J.J. Hale was such a joy to read. Set in Ireland, this low-angst, age gap romance has everything I love: likeable characters, warmth, humour, instant chemistry, and a premise that immediately grabbed me when a one-night stand turns into a nanny hire!
The emotional tension is perfectly pitched making it an easy, comforting read that still feels deeply satisfying. I also really appreciated the inclusion of neurodivergent representation, which added authenticity and depth without ever feeling heavy-handed. The twins are adorable, and Eliza’s close relationship with her ex adds a lovely touch of realism.
Altogether, this is a warm, feel-good sapphic romance that absolutely delivered, and one I would recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The emotional tension is perfectly pitched making it an easy, comforting read that still feels deeply satisfying. I also really appreciated the inclusion of neurodivergent representation, which added authenticity and depth without ever feeling heavy-handed. The twins are adorable, and Eliza’s close relationship with her ex adds a lovely touch of realism.
Altogether, this is a warm, feel-good sapphic romance that absolutely delivered, and one I would recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It shouldn't amaze me that this was another wonderful and inclusive read. I've read books before by this author and I know I'm always in for a treat.
Eliza and Rowyn are such delightful characters despite butting heads on more than one occassion. They go about it very mature and are willing to grow and learn from their mistakes.
The depiction of neurodivergence is such a delight as it is written so truthfully and raw. It warms my heart that we get these characters who are struggling but are willing to learn to become the better version of themselves.
The story ended too soon for me as it was such a joy spending time with them. I would have loved some more scenes with Eliza, Rowyn and the kids but I know they are out there having the time of their lives despite the hurdles.
An ARC was given to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
Eliza and Rowyn are such delightful characters despite butting heads on more than one occassion. They go about it very mature and are willing to grow and learn from their mistakes.
The depiction of neurodivergence is such a delight as it is written so truthfully and raw. It warms my heart that we get these characters who are struggling but are willing to learn to become the better version of themselves.
The story ended too soon for me as it was such a joy spending time with them. I would have loved some more scenes with Eliza, Rowyn and the kids but I know they are out there having the time of their lives despite the hurdles.
An ARC was given to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
May 12, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Rowyn and Eliza have a one night stand and never expected to see each other again. Eliza is a mother of twins Amelia and Elliot who she needs a nanny for and Rowyn decides to take the job and are both shock to see each other again they both decided to leave their encounter in the past. Rowyn realizes why no one wanted to take this job as she and Eliza work together to provide for the children their feelings start to grow more to point that neither could control it. I enjoy this read I love the friendship between Eliza and her ex husband Henry and how they care for their children without being toxic love the way Rowyn was with the children love the boundaries mcs set with each other and it’s wasn’t power imbalance a enjoyable read.
Rowyn and Eliza have a one night stand and never expected to see each other again. Eliza is a mother of twins Amelia and Elliot who she needs a nanny for and Rowyn decides to take the job and are both shock to see each other again they both decided to leave their encounter in the past. Rowyn realizes why no one wanted to take this job as she and Eliza work together to provide for the children their feelings start to grow more to point that neither could control it. I enjoy this read I love the friendship between Eliza and her ex husband Henry and how they care for their children without being toxic love the way Rowyn was with the children love the boundaries mcs set with each other and it’s wasn’t power imbalance a enjoyable read.
May 18, 2026
I have enjoyed JJ Hale since her first book, Truly Loved. She has an easy writing style and I can quickly get lost in her stories. I always enjoy the nanny/boss trope and this time was no exception.
Rowyn and Eliza had a one night stand only to discover that Rowyn had been hired by her ex to be her twins nanny. There was a little angst, plenty of spice, and a good plot. The kids were great secondary characters, sometimes in books like this they tend to get pushed to the wayside and you wonder if the nanny is actually doing anything. Henry, Eliza's ex, was also a good secondary character who really supported his kids and his ex. The chemistry and tension between Eliza and Rowyn was well written. There's nothing really remarkable about this book, it's good and it's an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
Rowyn and Eliza had a one night stand only to discover that Rowyn had been hired by her ex to be her twins nanny. There was a little angst, plenty of spice, and a good plot. The kids were great secondary characters, sometimes in books like this they tend to get pushed to the wayside and you wonder if the nanny is actually doing anything. Henry, Eliza's ex, was also a good secondary character who really supported his kids and his ex. The chemistry and tension between Eliza and Rowyn was well written. There's nothing really remarkable about this book, it's good and it's an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks so much to the Author J.J.Hale, Bold Stroke Books for the ARC of this beautiful romance!
This romantic love story beautifully explores the theme of neurodivergence, affecting not only children, but also adult characters
like the Nanny Rowyn and the Mother Eliza...
This theme is seamlessly integrated into the narrative.
The attraction and encounter between the two main charatcters remain the central focus and are wonderfully presented.
Work, pleasure, and deep emotions are inadvertently intertwined, as Wyn and Elle share a passionate one-night stand,
before facing each other the next day as employer and employee.
How they overcome this hurdle, is a truly captivating and steamy read!
This romantic love story beautifully explores the theme of neurodivergence, affecting not only children, but also adult characters
like the Nanny Rowyn and the Mother Eliza...
This theme is seamlessly integrated into the narrative.
The attraction and encounter between the two main charatcters remain the central focus and are wonderfully presented.
Work, pleasure, and deep emotions are inadvertently intertwined, as Wyn and Elle share a passionate one-night stand,
before facing each other the next day as employer and employee.
How they overcome this hurdle, is a truly captivating and steamy read!
May 7, 2026
What happens when last night’s one-night stand shows up as on your doorstep as your new nanny?
Sweet Surrender is not the typical sleeping with the nanny/age gap story. J.J. Hale gives us a story where the adults, mostly, have open lines of communication and handle things maturely. I liked Hale’s portrayal of neurodivergence and the impact it has on everyone in the family. The family dynamic and kids are central to the story, which may not be for everyone. Overall, it is a low angst romance, with just enough open door spice. I do wish we could get a bit more the MC’s relationship at the end, but otherwise love this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet Surrender is not the typical sleeping with the nanny/age gap story. J.J. Hale gives us a story where the adults, mostly, have open lines of communication and handle things maturely. I liked Hale’s portrayal of neurodivergence and the impact it has on everyone in the family. The family dynamic and kids are central to the story, which may not be for everyone. Overall, it is a low angst romance, with just enough open door spice. I do wish we could get a bit more the MC’s relationship at the end, but otherwise love this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The cover didn't capture my interest, but the author usually does. This one did not disappoint and weaved neurodivergence into the story seamlessly. Very well done.
A hot one night stand between Rowyn and Eliza where they think they won't see each other again, only to be employee and employer where Rowyn is the nanny for Eliza's kids. The chemistry was great and very steamy. The story was wonderful and I enjoyed both characters as well and how they explored their relationship as well.
Overall, I would recommend this book. I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A hot one night stand between Rowyn and Eliza where they think they won't see each other again, only to be employee and employer where Rowyn is the nanny for Eliza's kids. The chemistry was great and very steamy. The story was wonderful and I enjoyed both characters as well and how they explored their relationship as well.
Overall, I would recommend this book. I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2026
JJ Hale is quickly becoming an insta-buy/read author for me, and Sweet Surrender was no exception. This was a sweet, low-angst romance novel that hit quite a few tropes along the way. I loved seeing both Eliza and Rowyn grow with and learn from each other throughout the novel. All of the characters, including the kids, seemed realistic and well developed, and all of their interactions were handled with such care and emotion that you couldn’t help but to relate to and care for them. If you are looking for an emotionally driven romance with neurodivergent representation, this is a great book to read.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley.
June 22, 2026
I really enjoyed this story. It was written very well, the plot flowed and the spicy scenes were in good detail.
I liked the one night stand to now she’s the nanny. I felt like it made Eliza vulnerable to Wyn from the jump.
Eliza is your true ice queen but she does really need Wyns help with her kids. I think their relationship forms so well in the story. I love when a nanny comes in and not only helps the kids, but helps the parent too. WYN did just that.
This wasn’t first JJ Hale book and I enjoyed it a lot.
I liked the one night stand to now she’s the nanny. I felt like it made Eliza vulnerable to Wyn from the jump.
Eliza is your true ice queen but she does really need Wyns help with her kids. I think their relationship forms so well in the story. I love when a nanny comes in and not only helps the kids, but helps the parent too. WYN did just that.
This wasn’t first JJ Hale book and I enjoyed it a lot.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book starts out strong and steamy as Rowyn and Eliza first meet. Wyn will be Eliza’s new nanny but neither know who the other is. Imagine their surprise when they find out. Eliza’s a little uptight and Wyn’s easy going which cause some clash with caring for the kids. Eliza’s ex thought daddy was suppose to sleep with the nanny. There are some ups and downs as they work through it.
This story will hook you and keep you reading.
This story will hook you and keep you reading.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Going by the synopsis, this is one night to forever adjacent. I am not a fan of insta lust but got through the start so the chemistry could begin.
Well, the chemistry was well done, as was the educating and representation of neurodivergence. A romance that kept me interested throughout. In my opinion the book is much better than the book cover!
Well, the chemistry was well done, as was the educating and representation of neurodivergence. A romance that kept me interested throughout. In my opinion the book is much better than the book cover!
May 31, 2026
One of my favorite authors with another solid book. The story was well done; I appreciated how the neodivergent MC was portrayed. Lots of tension and spice. Looking forward to more.
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