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Bachelors and Babies #1
Must Love Babies
This baby's not the only one in need of a cuddle...
Brant Wylder is a bachelor and loving it! He's in Misty Bottoms, Georgia, property-hunting for his vintage car repair shop when he gets the call. His sister's been in an accident, and Brant has to drop everything and take care of his five-month-old nephew. That's the end of the bachelor lifestyle.
Bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles is all business all the time, until she sees that Brant's in trouble. In this Southern town, nobody ever has to go it alone. And besides, how can she resist that beautiful baby in the arms of a beautiful man...?
Must Love Babies Series:
Must Love Babies (Book 1)
I've Got You Babe (Book 2)
For Baby and Me (Book 3)
What People Are Saying about Lynnette Austin:
"A delightful, romantic story about dreams, family, and first love..."--Fresh Fiction for The Best Laid Wedding Plans
"An emotional story about a deep love, forgiveness and letting go." --Keeper Bookshelf for Picture Perfect Wedding
Brant Wylder is a bachelor and loving it! He's in Misty Bottoms, Georgia, property-hunting for his vintage car repair shop when he gets the call. His sister's been in an accident, and Brant has to drop everything and take care of his five-month-old nephew. That's the end of the bachelor lifestyle.
Bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles is all business all the time, until she sees that Brant's in trouble. In this Southern town, nobody ever has to go it alone. And besides, how can she resist that beautiful baby in the arms of a beautiful man...?
Must Love Babies Series:
Must Love Babies (Book 1)
I've Got You Babe (Book 2)
For Baby and Me (Book 3)
What People Are Saying about Lynnette Austin:
"A delightful, romantic story about dreams, family, and first love..."--Fresh Fiction for The Best Laid Wedding Plans
"An emotional story about a deep love, forgiveness and letting go." --Keeper Bookshelf for Picture Perfect Wedding
404 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 5, 2018
164 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
June 5, 2018
Molly and Brant meet at a mutual friend's wedding and sparks fly instantly, but Molly isn't interested in dating or relationships. She has an ironclad plan to not settle down until she turns 30, after she's made a success of her shop and is financially independent. But she didn't plan on Brant Wylder, a man who teases and flirts, who encourages and supports. Pretty much the ultimate temptation.
But like the saying goes, even the best laid plans can go astray and Brant definitely leads Molly astray. In town to scope out a possible relocation for their Wylder Rides body shop, Brant only planned a short stay but when his sister suffers an accident and he is left with his seven month old nephew, Brant doesn't hesitate to what needs to be done for his family. Molly and the rest of the town support and encourage him every step of the way and the journey was heartfelt and full of love.
This was sweet romantic love story with great MCs, strong family ties and promising secondary characters. It was about taking chances, lasting friendships and accepting that life's changes can't always be predicted or planned.
What I loved about it:
I loved Brant but Brant with baby Jax! Yeah, a man with a baby is too freaking perfect. I loved reading about Brant taking on the responsibility his nephew, all the while knowing zilch about taking care of a seven month old baby. Watching Brant take on the challenge and falling hopelessly in love with Jax was adorable and endearing as hell.
I loved the small town feel in this story too. I loved that every one came out to helped Brant, even if it was just to offer advice or donate some hand-me-downs. It was refreshing to see the author take this route and not the cliched one where the heroine swoops in to save the day and play house with the Hero. Molly and Brant's relationship springs from their mutual attraction and their friendship. Baby Jax is a cute bonus but not the catalyst that brings these two together.
This is a new spin off series (past couples are mentioned throughout) and I'm definitely interested in the other two Wylder brothers. Mainly, Tucker - there's just something about the brooding, keeps to himself, professed bachelor (who isn't a player!) that gets me every time.
Would I recommend?
I loved this read and would definitely recommend! This is 100% safe. The few smexy times are fade to black. (I still loved this read, even with out the bedroom scenes!)
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Favorite New Word:
I don't know why I haven't added this section before but I learned a new word while reading this and loved it!
When I read it and looked up the meaning I liked it, it was so old school. Also I kept reading it in a fake British accent and wanting to whip out my wand. Doesn't it sound like a spell that Hermione would know? Lol :)
But like the saying goes, even the best laid plans can go astray and Brant definitely leads Molly astray. In town to scope out a possible relocation for their Wylder Rides body shop, Brant only planned a short stay but when his sister suffers an accident and he is left with his seven month old nephew, Brant doesn't hesitate to what needs to be done for his family. Molly and the rest of the town support and encourage him every step of the way and the journey was heartfelt and full of love.
This was sweet romantic love story with great MCs, strong family ties and promising secondary characters. It was about taking chances, lasting friendships and accepting that life's changes can't always be predicted or planned.
What I loved about it:
I loved Brant but Brant with baby Jax! Yeah, a man with a baby is too freaking perfect. I loved reading about Brant taking on the responsibility his nephew, all the while knowing zilch about taking care of a seven month old baby. Watching Brant take on the challenge and falling hopelessly in love with Jax was adorable and endearing as hell.
I loved the small town feel in this story too. I loved that every one came out to helped Brant, even if it was just to offer advice or donate some hand-me-downs. It was refreshing to see the author take this route and not the cliched one where the heroine swoops in to save the day and play house with the Hero. Molly and Brant's relationship springs from their mutual attraction and their friendship. Baby Jax is a cute bonus but not the catalyst that brings these two together.
This is a new spin off series (past couples are mentioned throughout) and I'm definitely interested in the other two Wylder brothers. Mainly, Tucker - there's just something about the brooding, keeps to himself, professed bachelor (who isn't a player!) that gets me every time.
Would I recommend?
I loved this read and would definitely recommend! This is 100% safe. The few smexy times are fade to black. (I still loved this read, even with out the bedroom scenes!)
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Favorite New Word:
I don't know why I haven't added this section before but I learned a new word while reading this and loved it!
Braggadocio - brag-ga-do-ci-o n. boastful or arrogant behavior.
When I read it and looked up the meaning I liked it, it was so old school. Also I kept reading it in a fake British accent and wanting to whip out my wand. Doesn't it sound like a spell that Hermione would know? Lol :)
September 1, 2020
I am between 2 and 3 stars for this book. I did enjoy the second book on this series. But not Must Love Babies. This book is a mess.
There are too much characters. Too much scenes that is not necessary to support the story. The chemistry between the Brad and Molly is also cold and forced. I feel there are too much aspect being scattered around in this book. Losing focus on the story.
The only thing that I like about the story is the bonding between Brad and Jack. Those are the sweet moments. The only reason I give 3 stars.
3 stars
There are too much characters. Too much scenes that is not necessary to support the story. The chemistry between the Brad and Molly is also cold and forced. I feel there are too much aspect being scattered around in this book. Losing focus on the story.
The only thing that I like about the story is the bonding between Brad and Jack. Those are the sweet moments. The only reason I give 3 stars.
3 stars
July 24, 2018
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
How to resist a romance with a baby? An uncle, a hardened bachelor, who has to take care of his sister’s baby overnight? Just for that, I was very curious to discover this story!
The last thing Brant expected was to look after his sister’s baby while she was in the hospital. He is not ready for that, he does not know how to manage a child and he has nothing to keep one, especially since he is at the hotel. But here he has no choice, but fortunately for him, this small town is welcoming, including the beautiful Molly Stiles he met at a wedding. Molly is struggling to let Brant handle his problems alone, how to resist a very handsome man with a baby?
I had a good time with the novel, it was very nice to discover the story and see the romance grow slowly. It must be said that because of her past, Molly really does not trust men and she will make Grant wait, which is not easy. I really liked to see her change, become attached to these two boys, just as seeing Grant succumbing to this little baby who makes him sometimes crazy.
On the other hand, I admit that the end is rushed for me and I always have trouble with marriage requests like that.
Mon avis en Français
My English review
How to resist a romance with a baby? An uncle, a hardened bachelor, who has to take care of his sister’s baby overnight? Just for that, I was very curious to discover this story!
The last thing Brant expected was to look after his sister’s baby while she was in the hospital. He is not ready for that, he does not know how to manage a child and he has nothing to keep one, especially since he is at the hotel. But here he has no choice, but fortunately for him, this small town is welcoming, including the beautiful Molly Stiles he met at a wedding. Molly is struggling to let Brant handle his problems alone, how to resist a very handsome man with a baby?
I had a good time with the novel, it was very nice to discover the story and see the romance grow slowly. It must be said that because of her past, Molly really does not trust men and she will make Grant wait, which is not easy. I really liked to see her change, become attached to these two boys, just as seeing Grant succumbing to this little baby who makes him sometimes crazy.
On the other hand, I admit that the end is rushed for me and I always have trouble with marriage requests like that.
June 25, 2018
I’m apparently a sucker for a romance that involves a baby! This one is the single dad raising a baby trope but with a twist. I really liked the hero and heroine in this one. I liked the focus on family ties and how the two of them worked on their own issues as part of their coming together. Their friendship was a highlight of the story. I’d say this is more sweet than sexy which was nice for a change of pace. I’m excited to see this is the first of a series because I can’t wait to see what is to come with the hero’s brothers who I believe are the focus of those upcoming books.
[Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.]
[Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.]
June 6, 2018
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I should have loved this one. Hot guy taking care of a baby. What’s not to love, right? Sadly...lots. There was lots I didn’t love.
First of all, I need to say that there’s nothing at all wrong with the writing. There aren’t a ton of annoying typos, the dialogue all has a nice, natural flow to it, and the characters all are well fleshed out. And I actually liked Brant, the hero, quite a bit. He’s a stand-up guy who always goes above and beyond for his family.
Now, for what didn’t work for me…
Length:
I made it to about 50% of the story. That’s when I started thinking, damn, I’m at 50% of the story and NOTHING has happened yet in the way of romance. It’s just been a hot dude taking care of a baby and occasionally running into a woman he has the hots for. I was bored at this point in the story, and started to consider skimming. But you know what? Life’s too short to spend skimming books that are boring the crap out of me. So I stopped. Then I noticed that this book is 419 pages long. Jesus! 419 pages? That’s way too long. If the chapters about Brant taking care of the baby had been condensed, the book had a shot at keeping my attention, but at 419, I would’ve been really bitter had I stayed in it until the end. I’m SUPER glad I quit at 50%.
The heroine:
She has a list, y’all. If you’re a regular romance reader (or watcher of Hallmark and Lifetime Channel holiday romances), you know what I’m talking about. Molly, the heroine, has a list of things she wants to accomplish in her lifetime, and a timeframe that she wants to follow for each accomplishment. So, her list says that she shouldn’t be in a serious relationship until she’s 30, and darn it, she’s only 27, so OBVIOUSLY, she can’t get involved with Brant, because it’s just not time yet. (*rolls eyes so hard I have a headache that lasts two hours*) I’m sorry, but that is without a doubt, one of the DUMBEST reasons not to get involved with someone that I’ve ever heard, and I have no patience for that kind of jackassery.
And what’s worse is that Molly doesn’t even stick to her guns. She keeps flirting with Brant, and offering to help him take care of the baby, and cooking dinner for him. THEN she ends up pushing him away because of her stupid list (and past daddy issues, which is yet another annoying trope that I’d be happy to never run into again).
By the time I quit reading, I kind of wanted Molly to get hit by a bus so that the hero might have the opportunity to meet a GOOD heroine.
Hart of Dixie:
Did you guys watch Hart of Dixie? I’m not saying the author copied anything from the show because the plot lines were nothing alike, but I got a VERY Hart of Dixie feeling about the little town the story was set in. There were characters named Tansy and Cricket (just like in HoD), a wedding venue called Magnolia House (there was a character on HoD named Magnolia), someone called Jenni Beth (which reminded me of Anna Beth, another HoD character), and lots of little quirky small town side characters, just like HoD. And Brant reminded me a lot of Wade Kinsella from the show. Maybe that was just me, though...
Brant’s family sucks:
I feel like Brant’s family totally took advantage of him and left him in the lurch to care for his sister and Jax, the baby. Not ONE of them could show up to help him in any way? And they all just expected him to do it. He did everything without complaining because that’s the kind of guy he was, but the fact that his family so quickly threw him to the wolves, by himself, irked me.
So, long-story-short, I’ve certainly read worse books than this, but I guess I was just expecting more from a book with a hot guy and a baby on the cover. What’s the world coming to that I can’t trust a book with a hot guy and a baby on the cover?
Full disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I should have loved this one. Hot guy taking care of a baby. What’s not to love, right? Sadly...lots. There was lots I didn’t love.
First of all, I need to say that there’s nothing at all wrong with the writing. There aren’t a ton of annoying typos, the dialogue all has a nice, natural flow to it, and the characters all are well fleshed out. And I actually liked Brant, the hero, quite a bit. He’s a stand-up guy who always goes above and beyond for his family.
Now, for what didn’t work for me…
Length:
I made it to about 50% of the story. That’s when I started thinking, damn, I’m at 50% of the story and NOTHING has happened yet in the way of romance. It’s just been a hot dude taking care of a baby and occasionally running into a woman he has the hots for. I was bored at this point in the story, and started to consider skimming. But you know what? Life’s too short to spend skimming books that are boring the crap out of me. So I stopped. Then I noticed that this book is 419 pages long. Jesus! 419 pages? That’s way too long. If the chapters about Brant taking care of the baby had been condensed, the book had a shot at keeping my attention, but at 419, I would’ve been really bitter had I stayed in it until the end. I’m SUPER glad I quit at 50%.
The heroine:
She has a list, y’all. If you’re a regular romance reader (or watcher of Hallmark and Lifetime Channel holiday romances), you know what I’m talking about. Molly, the heroine, has a list of things she wants to accomplish in her lifetime, and a timeframe that she wants to follow for each accomplishment. So, her list says that she shouldn’t be in a serious relationship until she’s 30, and darn it, she’s only 27, so OBVIOUSLY, she can’t get involved with Brant, because it’s just not time yet. (*rolls eyes so hard I have a headache that lasts two hours*) I’m sorry, but that is without a doubt, one of the DUMBEST reasons not to get involved with someone that I’ve ever heard, and I have no patience for that kind of jackassery.
And what’s worse is that Molly doesn’t even stick to her guns. She keeps flirting with Brant, and offering to help him take care of the baby, and cooking dinner for him. THEN she ends up pushing him away because of her stupid list (and past daddy issues, which is yet another annoying trope that I’d be happy to never run into again).
By the time I quit reading, I kind of wanted Molly to get hit by a bus so that the hero might have the opportunity to meet a GOOD heroine.
Hart of Dixie:
Did you guys watch Hart of Dixie? I’m not saying the author copied anything from the show because the plot lines were nothing alike, but I got a VERY Hart of Dixie feeling about the little town the story was set in. There were characters named Tansy and Cricket (just like in HoD), a wedding venue called Magnolia House (there was a character on HoD named Magnolia), someone called Jenni Beth (which reminded me of Anna Beth, another HoD character), and lots of little quirky small town side characters, just like HoD. And Brant reminded me a lot of Wade Kinsella from the show. Maybe that was just me, though...
Brant’s family sucks:
I feel like Brant’s family totally took advantage of him and left him in the lurch to care for his sister and Jax, the baby. Not ONE of them could show up to help him in any way? And they all just expected him to do it. He did everything without complaining because that’s the kind of guy he was, but the fact that his family so quickly threw him to the wolves, by himself, irked me.
So, long-story-short, I’ve certainly read worse books than this, but I guess I was just expecting more from a book with a hot guy and a baby on the cover. What’s the world coming to that I can’t trust a book with a hot guy and a baby on the cover?
Full disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2018
Must of Babies isn't your typical single dad so that I was hoping for. While this twist is ok I just wasn't what I expected.
Brandt drops everything to be there for his sister and family. It was evident that he waste glue that held his family together. I think the real story is the relationship between him and his nephew He was bound and determined to make be a successful parent in the small amount of time. It was so sweet watching him go from an experienced care giver to one that could handle anything little Jax threw his way. It's amazing how one little person can turn your world upside down.
The best laid plans are meant to be broken. Molly has had her list since she was a young girl and was hard pressed to deviate from it. She was sweet although I found her to be a bit of a broken record at times. She was a little to wishy washy for me
I was hoping for more of a love story between them but it fell a little short for me. I didn't feel a love connection between them.
July 1, 2018
This one was very cute. I loved how Brant stepped up to help his sister with baby Jax. There was a steep learning curve for Brant, but he did pretty good becoming the sole person to take care of a baby with having never done it before. Sure he made some unconventional choices, but it worked and Jax wasn't in danger.
I liked the romance between Brant and Molly, even if Molly's issues drove me nuts at times. I was happy when she finally realized her list could change.
I really liked the town that this story took place in, loved that Brant and his brothers ended up finding the perfect property for their business and moved there. The townspeople had some interesting characters for sure, but they also supported Brant when he needed it.
I liked the romance between Brant and Molly, even if Molly's issues drove me nuts at times. I was happy when she finally realized her list could change.
I really liked the town that this story took place in, loved that Brant and his brothers ended up finding the perfect property for their business and moved there. The townspeople had some interesting characters for sure, but they also supported Brant when he needed it.
06-reasons
May 15, 2018Another one bites the dust - on a roll here with all the good books I'm reading. Boring and so far he keeps on fobbing the baby off to the others because he doesn't know how to feed or really diaper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2019
Good beach read :)
May 28, 2018
4 Star review of Must Love Babies (Must Love Babies #1) by Lynette Austin
This was a new to me author and since I really loved the premise and as it was book one in a new series I jumped right in.
I do feel it might have led to a better understanding of this book if I had read her Magnolia Brides series first as there are numerous references to the three ladies from that series and so I felt lost on occasion.
When Brant Wylder’s sister is involved in an accident, he has to step in and look after his 5 month old nephew.
Having no clue, he is soon out of his element, when Molly Stiles steps in to help him.
This was a sweet romance which at times was an emotional roller coaster. The interaction between Brant and baby Jax melted my heart.
I really liked Brant but to be honest Molly annoyed me. Although she is independent she didn’t seem to be able to decide what or who she wants.
This was a new to me author and since I really loved the premise and as it was book one in a new series I jumped right in.
I do feel it might have led to a better understanding of this book if I had read her Magnolia Brides series first as there are numerous references to the three ladies from that series and so I felt lost on occasion.
When Brant Wylder’s sister is involved in an accident, he has to step in and look after his 5 month old nephew.
Having no clue, he is soon out of his element, when Molly Stiles steps in to help him.
This was a sweet romance which at times was an emotional roller coaster. The interaction between Brant and baby Jax melted my heart.
I really liked Brant but to be honest Molly annoyed me. Although she is independent she didn’t seem to be able to decide what or who she wants.
June 13, 2018
3.5 Stars
Brant Wylder is living the life, pursing his passion for vintage cars alongside his brothers, when Mr. Dependable finds himself the temporary guardian of his baby nephew, just when he’s debating turning up the heat on his ongoing flirtation with bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles. How’s a guy to juggle baby duty and wooing a woman?
This story has all the ingredients to make it a splash – a hot bachelor, a baby and the only woman who revs his engine. Brant and Mollie’s relationship was cute and sweet and I really enjoyed his relationship with his family. The story also felt familiar because of the secondary characters from the author’s Magnolia Brides series.
But it also felt off to me. A lot of the background between Brant and Mollie is missing and their relationship feels like it’s missing some depth. Brant was a really great guy he did most of the heavy lifting, while Mollie’s inflexibility made her quite unappealing.
Jax the baby was the star of the show and an integral part of the story, but also comes across a filler because without him, what was developing between Mollie and Brant was very thin.
I was a bit disappointed because I have enjoyed Ms. Austin’s writing style and her sweet and flirty romances, and I hope the next book is better.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
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Brant Wylder is living the life, pursing his passion for vintage cars alongside his brothers, when Mr. Dependable finds himself the temporary guardian of his baby nephew, just when he’s debating turning up the heat on his ongoing flirtation with bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles. How’s a guy to juggle baby duty and wooing a woman?
This story has all the ingredients to make it a splash – a hot bachelor, a baby and the only woman who revs his engine. Brant and Mollie’s relationship was cute and sweet and I really enjoyed his relationship with his family. The story also felt familiar because of the secondary characters from the author’s Magnolia Brides series.
But it also felt off to me. A lot of the background between Brant and Mollie is missing and their relationship feels like it’s missing some depth. Brant was a really great guy he did most of the heavy lifting, while Mollie’s inflexibility made her quite unappealing.
Jax the baby was the star of the show and an integral part of the story, but also comes across a filler because without him, what was developing between Mollie and Brant was very thin.
I was a bit disappointed because I have enjoyed Ms. Austin’s writing style and her sweet and flirty romances, and I hope the next book is better.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
June 3, 2018
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Delight
Unfortunately, there wasn't much I delighted about in this story. Jax, he baby was a hit as he kept things light when they could have gotten way to deep.
Review
Wanting to jump on the bandwagon of a new series by an author I had not read yet, I picked up Must Love Babies and thought I would fall in love. Nope, I fell mostly in confusion by page 1. We just right into Brant's mind while he is at a wedding for characters I didn't know. It felt like I should have known who Brant and Molly were from the get go. Figuring I just wasn't getting it, I plowed on thinking things would clear up. Once again I was wrong and found myself trying to continue because I fell in love with Brant.
Around 40-50% into the book, I started to pull in some of the people, who they were, but once again, it felt like I had lost some of the story. On top of that, the plot wasn't moving past kisses, a life plan list and a baby being stuck with the hero who steps in all situations needed.
Brant Wylder is a bad boy with a wonderful smile, easy personality and a heart so big for his family it knows no bounds. He is paired up with Molly at a wedding for his fraternity friend (who's wedding and which friend, I could not tell you). When Brant gets a call from his father that his younger sister has been in a car accident, he rushes out to take care of her son (he wasn't in the accident) before he is turned over to foster care. His sister a recovering alcoholic needs to go back into rehab after a relapse and now Brant is taking on a 7-month old with no experience.
Molly Stiles owns a bridal shop in Misty Falls, GA. One of many ladies in this town that have grown to be friends as they have set up the bakery for cakes, floral shop and a venue. It is the wedding destination! Unfortunately, at 60% I figured out this was a off-shoot series that would have explained how all this came together and how Brant and Molly met.
Strike 1 - a new series where you really had to read a previous series.
Brant and Molly flirt a lot. Kiss a lot. But it never seems to move on. In fact the story felt like it was dragging. It's at this 60% mark I am thinking of DNF....when suddenly they are kissing and moving it to the next level...and it ends with a one sentence bang. Seriously, no sex scene. Just one sentence about him taking her on the stairs.
Strike 2 - Clean romance - the story was way to long without some hanky panky reading.
At this point I am ready to skim the rest of the book. I vested this much time into it, I just wanted to see where it goes, but not read it word for word.
Strike 3 - Molly's list
Molly has a list from her childhood of what she wanted to accomplish by what age. And she is sticking to it after a bad childhood and even worse relationship with a cheater. She is building the business till age 30. That's it. No man is going to derail her plan. She pushes Brant away time after time to the point I wanted him to run away....FAST. She has daddy issues that just bugged me after a while.
Strike 4 - Brant's family uses him.
To be fair, Brant's father is taking care of his mother after she had a stroke. They don't use Brant in this sense. Brant's siblings just don't scream, I have your back. Brant's sister relapses and takes a drink again, which forces Brant to take on her son Jax. Brant learns a lot, but never once does he give up on Jax. He mans up and takes on a baby with no experience, but learns fast. His two brother's are off getting a car to remodel. They come and go, but every time they leave Brant to take care of Jax. Never do they stay long enough to take over.
Strike 5 - Why didn't I DNF?
At the end of the day, I should have put this book down and walked away. To be fair, the writing is not bad, it just needed a lot of background story, some intimacies, and a slap upside the heroine's head. If you like you romances clean (not me) and small towns, do your self a favor and read the series before this one so you aren't lost as you navigate the characters in Misty Falls.
April 10, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) I love stories of small towns and when a group of friends like the ones mentioned here were able to thrive. I found myself thinking repeatedly that I must have missed some previous books, why you may ask? Because we are constantly talking about how this group of friends started their business and how they found love, and so on and so on..But, nope this is actually the first in this series, but I regrettably am getting off of this train. While I liked Brant and commended him on how he dropped everything to assist his sister, how he took care of baby Jax, that is what I liked about the book. I did not like the heroine, her list was ridiculous and her resisting due to daddy issue ridiculous..
June 7, 2018
The sweet, adorable title and book cover lured me in to give this new to me author a try. Though at first the writing style felt somewhat mechanical, it did improve to the point I began to feel engaged. Brant, the hero, by far brought out the best of the story line with his swoon worthy manliness as he unexpectedly had to step into the shoes as caregiver for his infant nephew. His good natured, tender loving attitude towards Jax really melted my heart.
Molly, the heroine, was sugary sweet but too insecure due to her daddy always lets me down issues and previous bad breakup baggage. With a stereotypical fear of abandonment and unhealthy obsession with decisions she made when she was just a kid, I must say for me she came across too narrowed minded for her own good.
Ultimately, we see these destined to be together love birds circle around each other until they decide stealing a kiss or two here and there is to no longer enough. It was sweet to watch them fall for one another. However, one of them stubbornly inwardly keeps thinking it likely won’t last. Fortunately, the other feels resolved to not give up. However, not openly referring to their situation as a relationship was frustrating to witness.
At nearly 40%, I realized the romance was moving along at a snail’s pace since they were still not a couple yet and spending little time together. It wasn’t until almost 70% it finally felt like they were going to be a couple. But by 80% they still weren’t calling it as such and the pace had not picked up. I just couldn’t justify to keep reading from then on, folks. I’m sure everything eventually works out for this very likable couple, but my patience had run out.
Here’s to hoping others really enjoy it. I just thought the story line needed a faster pace and something more significant to happen. Brant would definitely be the main reason I would recommend this book to others. Though clueless at how to take care of a baby, he fell into the role with humor, determination, and tons of love.
Title: Must Love Babies, Series: Must Love Babies (Book 1), Author: Lynnette Austin, Pages: 416, stand-alone but part of a series, slow paced, good guy hero, sweet but annoyingly insecure heroine, not intimate for quite a while, romance safe.
Book 1 - Must Love Babies
Book 2 - I’ve Got You Babe
Book 3 - For Baby and Me
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Molly, the heroine, was sugary sweet but too insecure due to her daddy always lets me down issues and previous bad breakup baggage. With a stereotypical fear of abandonment and unhealthy obsession with decisions she made when she was just a kid, I must say for me she came across too narrowed minded for her own good.
Ultimately, we see these destined to be together love birds circle around each other until they decide stealing a kiss or two here and there is to no longer enough. It was sweet to watch them fall for one another. However, one of them stubbornly inwardly keeps thinking it likely won’t last. Fortunately, the other feels resolved to not give up. However, not openly referring to their situation as a relationship was frustrating to witness.
At nearly 40%, I realized the romance was moving along at a snail’s pace since they were still not a couple yet and spending little time together. It wasn’t until almost 70% it finally felt like they were going to be a couple. But by 80% they still weren’t calling it as such and the pace had not picked up. I just couldn’t justify to keep reading from then on, folks. I’m sure everything eventually works out for this very likable couple, but my patience had run out.
Here’s to hoping others really enjoy it. I just thought the story line needed a faster pace and something more significant to happen. Brant would definitely be the main reason I would recommend this book to others. Though clueless at how to take care of a baby, he fell into the role with humor, determination, and tons of love.
Title: Must Love Babies, Series: Must Love Babies (Book 1), Author: Lynnette Austin, Pages: 416, stand-alone but part of a series, slow paced, good guy hero, sweet but annoyingly insecure heroine, not intimate for quite a while, romance safe.
Book 1 - Must Love Babies
Book 2 - I’ve Got You Babe
Book 3 - For Baby and Me
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
August 29, 2018
I've been hearing about this book everywhere and I have been curious. Thank goodness for Audible and them giving one freebie a month. This popped up and I grabbed it.
The story follows Brant who is a bachelor and loving life. Things happen and his sister is in the hospital. He is the only one in the area and he is landed with the baby to watch. The story also follows Molly who is all business and a plan for her life. Brant and baby are about to explode this list.
This was simply cute. I adored Brant and that baby. Molly was annoying. Yessss I get she had a Dad who left her and an ex who broke her heart into a million pieces but her list makes no sense. A list that has things on there that you cannot plan like love and marriage.
It was fun to watch this super slow romance. They start as friends but Brant wants more. Molly does too, but it doesn't match her plan so she just wants to be friends. Annoying because he is the whole package and it is SO obvious he LOVES her.
I love small towns and this seems like a town I would like. I want to read more stories in this town. Always fun.
The narrator was just okay. His attempts at accents were mediocre. The girl voices decent. So yes, overall, just okay.
In the end, I did like this story. Brant was adorable and that baby was SOOO cute. Molly annoyed me. I get her but I wanted to shake her and scream BRANT LOVES YOU DARN IT!!!!! Ugh. But yes, this was adorable and you will fall in love with Brant and the baby. I'll stamp this with 3 stars.
The story follows Brant who is a bachelor and loving life. Things happen and his sister is in the hospital. He is the only one in the area and he is landed with the baby to watch. The story also follows Molly who is all business and a plan for her life. Brant and baby are about to explode this list.
This was simply cute. I adored Brant and that baby. Molly was annoying. Yessss I get she had a Dad who left her and an ex who broke her heart into a million pieces but her list makes no sense. A list that has things on there that you cannot plan like love and marriage.
It was fun to watch this super slow romance. They start as friends but Brant wants more. Molly does too, but it doesn't match her plan so she just wants to be friends. Annoying because he is the whole package and it is SO obvious he LOVES her.
I love small towns and this seems like a town I would like. I want to read more stories in this town. Always fun.
The narrator was just okay. His attempts at accents were mediocre. The girl voices decent. So yes, overall, just okay.
In the end, I did like this story. Brant was adorable and that baby was SOOO cute. Molly annoyed me. I get her but I wanted to shake her and scream BRANT LOVES YOU DARN IT!!!!! Ugh. But yes, this was adorable and you will fall in love with Brant and the baby. I'll stamp this with 3 stars.
April 21, 2018
First, I want to Lynnette Austin, Sourcebooks Casablanca and Netgalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Once I saw this adorable cover of Must Love Babies by Lynnette Austin it piqued my interest as I am a sucker for single men and babies. Once I read the synopsis I was hooked line and sinker that I must read this book. I was grateful for the opportunity to review this very sweet and at times a book that just pulled on your heart strings.
My absolute favorite characters were little baby Jax who was the sweetest little baby ever!! My face lit up so big when the lil guy crawled for the first time!! I also loved Brant. Who was thrown into being a “Daddy” to Jax while his sister recovered from a car accident. I thought it was so cute how he had no clue how to raise a baby on his own. However, he was making it work. My heart just melted with scenes between the two of them together.
My heart went out to the Whylder family. It was bad enough that Mrs. Whylder was home suffering from a stroke she had but her daughter was now in the ER suffering from injuries from a DWI. Luckily, lil Jax was not with her.
I have to mention that the music they played at the wedding in the first scene were all the songs that I loved. Kudos to the author for picking out amazing wedding songs-especially Kelly Clarkson A Moment Like This!
Once I saw this adorable cover of Must Love Babies by Lynnette Austin it piqued my interest as I am a sucker for single men and babies. Once I read the synopsis I was hooked line and sinker that I must read this book. I was grateful for the opportunity to review this very sweet and at times a book that just pulled on your heart strings.
My absolute favorite characters were little baby Jax who was the sweetest little baby ever!! My face lit up so big when the lil guy crawled for the first time!! I also loved Brant. Who was thrown into being a “Daddy” to Jax while his sister recovered from a car accident. I thought it was so cute how he had no clue how to raise a baby on his own. However, he was making it work. My heart just melted with scenes between the two of them together.
My heart went out to the Whylder family. It was bad enough that Mrs. Whylder was home suffering from a stroke she had but her daughter was now in the ER suffering from injuries from a DWI. Luckily, lil Jax was not with her.
I have to mention that the music they played at the wedding in the first scene were all the songs that I loved. Kudos to the author for picking out amazing wedding songs-especially Kelly Clarkson A Moment Like This!
May 31, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Not your typical romance but I think its what I love most about it.
Brant and Molly are the cusp on something but before anything can happen Brant gets a phone call that his sister is in the hospital and he's on his way to check on her. Next thing he knows, he's in charge of his seven month old nephew, Jax , while his sister Lainey is recovering from surgery following a drunk driving accident - which she caused.
Molly is skittish on a good day but getting involved with a man who doesn't live in Misty Bottom's is not high on her list on priorities. After all, she's learned that men leave - that's what her father did, anyway.
However, Molly can't resist Brant, the way he takes care of his nephew, the way he's looking out for his sister and the way he sweet talks her.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I'm highly invested in the town of Misty Bottoms and Wylder family.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
Not your typical romance but I think its what I love most about it.
Brant and Molly are the cusp on something but before anything can happen Brant gets a phone call that his sister is in the hospital and he's on his way to check on her. Next thing he knows, he's in charge of his seven month old nephew, Jax , while his sister Lainey is recovering from surgery following a drunk driving accident - which she caused.
Molly is skittish on a good day but getting involved with a man who doesn't live in Misty Bottom's is not high on her list on priorities. After all, she's learned that men leave - that's what her father did, anyway.
However, Molly can't resist Brant, the way he takes care of his nephew, the way he's looking out for his sister and the way he sweet talks her.
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I'm highly invested in the town of Misty Bottoms and Wylder family.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
April 9, 2018
**My thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca, for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
This is a new to me author and the beginning of a new series, however i feel it would have been better to read the Magnolia Brides series first as there are so many mentions of the three ladies from that series and starts at the wedding of one of them.
This is a Very clean book, a few heated kisses and sex is all but glossed over, but mostly its all tension and one man trying his best to woo a strong minded woman who does not trust easily with her heart.
Although it was a sweet book, i'm not sure that i will be following this series or this author, the style was not really me, and there were bits that i thought were over explained or missing which just let it down for me.
This is a new to me author and the beginning of a new series, however i feel it would have been better to read the Magnolia Brides series first as there are so many mentions of the three ladies from that series and starts at the wedding of one of them.
This is a Very clean book, a few heated kisses and sex is all but glossed over, but mostly its all tension and one man trying his best to woo a strong minded woman who does not trust easily with her heart.
Although it was a sweet book, i'm not sure that i will be following this series or this author, the style was not really me, and there were bits that i thought were over explained or missing which just let it down for me.
May 11, 2018
2 1/2 stars. It was kind of a sweet story but definitely lacking for me. This is a new author to me and while I wanted to really like it but just couldn’t. I like sweet romance just as much as romance with more heat and steam but this one just fell flat for me. Also there was too much mention of things that happened in a previous series I haven’t read.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book.
August 18, 2019
While overall, I enjoyed this book, there were a few issues with the characters that bothered me, especially the heroine. She tended to go back and forth running hot and cold a lot. I could understand her fears but felt that they went too far. Then she capitulated very quickly at the end. I did thoroughly enjoy Brent taking on the care of his nephew. There were several delightful moments with the baby. The narrator was excellent. Happy reading/listening!
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February 5, 2025
Cute story
April 1, 2025
Brant's care for Jax was the best part of this book, I loved how he immediately jumped into it and did his best to learn all he could. Molly was really sweet with Jax too. The romance felt flat and not very realistic. Not sure if I'll continue with the series.
June 14, 2018
Misty Bottoms is a town with a whole lot of heart. A gorgeous wedding venue, a bridal shop, bakery and florist make it a perfect romantic stop. The characters in this small town take care of each other, and jump in to help anyone in need. Visitor/newcomer Brant Wylder is the first to agree. Came for a wedding, ended up taking care of his five month old nephew, falling in love and finding a new location for his family business makes him one of their own. Great love story......grab it!
January 6, 2021
This was cute.
June 16, 2018
The book is a mess. There's simply no other word to describe it.
The characters are introduced in a way that makes you think that, perhaps, they already appeared in other books by the same author - it gives you this feeling that you're supposed to know who they are and if you don't, well that's your problem for not reading the other books. There's a lack of informations about them - most of them are thrown your way and after the tenth character - there are a LOAD of people in this book - I just couldn't remember who was who anymore.
It happens in a small town, so everyone is all nice and generous with everyone. That's cool. But it also sounded a little...weird, at some point. Per example, this couple that comes to town because they want to get married...an hour after they meet everyone, Brant the male MC, is already holding the woman under his arm and kissing her forehead. I don't know, that was pretty weird.
The author concentrated on many things that weren't so important for the story development. Per example, I can't tell you how many cute moments, one-sided conversations and little tidbits about baby Jax we had. Yes, he was cute but well, was it really that necessary?
Also, there's that couple I talked about earlier. They come into town to get married, they want a real nice wedding...the same day. That means everyone has to work their asses off to make sure everything is ready, from the dress, to the food or photographer. They choose Brant and Molly, the MC's, to be their best friend and maid of honor, and it's kind of a big deal because they're not really on talking terms at the point. So, we have an entire chapter about all that...and then nothing about the wedding. She litteraly skipped the wedding.
Same for Molly's best friend's wedding that she's been creating a dress for, all through the book, we have one little paragraph about that, and that's it. Or, Brant would call Molly in the middle of the night as if he had something important to tell her, and then hang up 2 seconds after and you'd wonder "Why did she take time to write this?"
This is basically how pretty much all the book is going and I kept reading, at first, because I was sure the author was young and inexperienced. I DNF'd once I realized it was absolutely not her first book.
The characters are introduced in a way that makes you think that, perhaps, they already appeared in other books by the same author - it gives you this feeling that you're supposed to know who they are and if you don't, well that's your problem for not reading the other books. There's a lack of informations about them - most of them are thrown your way and after the tenth character - there are a LOAD of people in this book - I just couldn't remember who was who anymore.
It happens in a small town, so everyone is all nice and generous with everyone. That's cool. But it also sounded a little...weird, at some point. Per example, this couple that comes to town because they want to get married...an hour after they meet everyone, Brant the male MC, is already holding the woman under his arm and kissing her forehead. I don't know, that was pretty weird.
The author concentrated on many things that weren't so important for the story development. Per example, I can't tell you how many cute moments, one-sided conversations and little tidbits about baby Jax we had. Yes, he was cute but well, was it really that necessary?
Also, there's that couple I talked about earlier. They come into town to get married, they want a real nice wedding...the same day. That means everyone has to work their asses off to make sure everything is ready, from the dress, to the food or photographer. They choose Brant and Molly, the MC's, to be their best friend and maid of honor, and it's kind of a big deal because they're not really on talking terms at the point. So, we have an entire chapter about all that...and then nothing about the wedding. She litteraly skipped the wedding.
Same for Molly's best friend's wedding that she's been creating a dress for, all through the book, we have one little paragraph about that, and that's it. Or, Brant would call Molly in the middle of the night as if he had something important to tell her, and then hang up 2 seconds after and you'd wonder "Why did she take time to write this?"
This is basically how pretty much all the book is going and I kept reading, at first, because I was sure the author was young and inexperienced. I DNF'd once I realized it was absolutely not her first book.
May 17, 2018
Brant Wylder is in town for a wedding and to scope out a new location for his car renovation business. When he gets a call that his sister has been in an accident he rushes to be with her. His sister has relapsed with alcoholism and her young son needs someone to look after him while she recovers. Brant has always been the dependable one in his family and he doesn’t hesitate to take care of his nephew. Even if he has no idea what he’s doing.
Bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles is reluctant to get involved with Brant but can’t seem to keep away. She is drawn to him and his adorable nephew. Molly has a lot of pain from her past and has learned to distrust men, can she move on and open her heart again?
Must Love Babies is the first instalment in Lynnette Austin’s new series. This series is connected to a prior series the Magnolia Brides series. I haven’t read that series but a lot of characters from the series do appear in this book. The reader is expected to know a lot of the backstory about the setting up of the bridal business, their love lives etc. If you haven’t read the previous series, you can get lost as the author expects you to have read it.
This is an ok read if you have nothing better to read. It will appeal to readers who like a clean romance. There are plenty of kisses but sex is glossed over.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
Bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles is reluctant to get involved with Brant but can’t seem to keep away. She is drawn to him and his adorable nephew. Molly has a lot of pain from her past and has learned to distrust men, can she move on and open her heart again?
Must Love Babies is the first instalment in Lynnette Austin’s new series. This series is connected to a prior series the Magnolia Brides series. I haven’t read that series but a lot of characters from the series do appear in this book. The reader is expected to know a lot of the backstory about the setting up of the bridal business, their love lives etc. If you haven’t read the previous series, you can get lost as the author expects you to have read it.
This is an ok read if you have nothing better to read. It will appeal to readers who like a clean romance. There are plenty of kisses but sex is glossed over.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
May 8, 2018
I finally managed to finish reading it!
If it wasn't an ARC, i think i would have given up on it. :(
First of all, the blurb threw me off. It says that the hero's sister was in an accident and he starts to raise his baby nephew. I was somehow expecting for the mother to die, which is morbid, i know. I kept thinking "now she dies", "when is she dying" and so on. Weird.
Then it was the fact that it's written in 3rd person. I'm not a huge fan of that.
Third: it was too sweet and easy. I haven't read Sandra Brown, but i expect it do be like this. No smut, no fire, no love, no connection. It's not fair to compare it to something unknown, but well....
They kiss, he wants a relationship, she doesn't because she's afraid (daddy issues + asshole ex) and that's it.
And the most important thing of all: it took me more than a week to finish it. No need to say more.
To sum it up, it's nice, but not my cup of tea.
"ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review."
If it wasn't an ARC, i think i would have given up on it. :(
First of all, the blurb threw me off. It says that the hero's sister was in an accident and he starts to raise his baby nephew. I was somehow expecting for the mother to die, which is morbid, i know. I kept thinking "now she dies", "when is she dying" and so on. Weird.
Then it was the fact that it's written in 3rd person. I'm not a huge fan of that.
Third: it was too sweet and easy. I haven't read Sandra Brown, but i expect it do be like this. No smut, no fire, no love, no connection. It's not fair to compare it to something unknown, but well....
They kiss, he wants a relationship, she doesn't because she's afraid (daddy issues + asshole ex) and that's it.
And the most important thing of all: it took me more than a week to finish it. No need to say more.
To sum it up, it's nice, but not my cup of tea.
"ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review."
July 7, 2018
I adore this cover, it brings out all the feels in me. That baby! That guy! Awwwwwwwww.
Brant is the one that looks after everyone else. He is awesome really, but he puts so much on himself. Nothing bad to say about this guy.'
Molly on the other hand has a list. Now at 28 she will focus on her business and no detours! I mean, Molly please, there must be a little wiggle room. Cos at 30 she must meet her man, and marry him and have a kid by 32. That is cutting it. It's like some guy will magically appear then. And yes that is the drama, she does not want a relationship. She has a plan.
Oh and there is a baby! Brant has to care for his sister's son. She has a bad accident. And this guy is so clueless and I love how he makes his mistakes, how he gets that yes it is hard and how he grows to love this little guy. And how much he grows to like Molly too who is trying to get away.
Taking care of a baby, meeting the perfect woman. That is this story.
Romance, diapers and cuteness.
Narrator
She played all the voices well and lol, yes even the baby's voice
Brant is the one that looks after everyone else. He is awesome really, but he puts so much on himself. Nothing bad to say about this guy.'
Molly on the other hand has a list. Now at 28 she will focus on her business and no detours! I mean, Molly please, there must be a little wiggle room. Cos at 30 she must meet her man, and marry him and have a kid by 32. That is cutting it. It's like some guy will magically appear then. And yes that is the drama, she does not want a relationship. She has a plan.
Oh and there is a baby! Brant has to care for his sister's son. She has a bad accident. And this guy is so clueless and I love how he makes his mistakes, how he gets that yes it is hard and how he grows to love this little guy. And how much he grows to like Molly too who is trying to get away.
Taking care of a baby, meeting the perfect woman. That is this story.
Romance, diapers and cuteness.
Narrator
She played all the voices well and lol, yes even the baby's voice
June 6, 2018
No! Cute covers, especially with babies and a good looking dude on the cover dose not mean you are going to love or like.
The writing wasn't bad, I hated the heroine and I couldn't connect with her at all, she was wishy washy, couldn't make up her mind, flirts and runs back and forth with her decision making. I felt like I was missing something as soon as I started the book, like it felt like there was huge backstory missing. The romance, meh. This was legit one of the most cleanest romances I have ever read, I just with the romance at all. I dunno if it was my mood or not, but I was looking forward to something different.
The writing wasn't bad, I hated the heroine and I couldn't connect with her at all, she was wishy washy, couldn't make up her mind, flirts and runs back and forth with her decision making. I felt like I was missing something as soon as I started the book, like it felt like there was huge backstory missing. The romance, meh. This was legit one of the most cleanest romances I have ever read, I just with the romance at all. I dunno if it was my mood or not, but I was looking forward to something different.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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