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The Single Dads of Seattle #4

Living with the Single Dad

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A pain so powerful can only be eased by a love even stronger.

Welcome to Seattle, the Emerald City and home to The Single Dads of Seattle. Ten sexy single fathers who play poker every Saturday night, have each other's backs, love their children without quarter, and hope to one day find love again.

This is Aaron's story ...

Single Dad of Seattle, Aaron Steele isn't a single dad at all. He's a retired Navy SEAL whose sister just died, leaving him to raise her newborn daughter all by himself. Only he has no clue how to be a dad--let alone a single dad. He's lost in a sea of diapers and bottles, late nights and exhausting mornings, all the while dealing with a failure from his last mission he just can't shake. He needs help. He needs a nanny.

Professional nanny Isobel Jones has a heart of gold. She's always willing to help out, no matter the cause. She spends her days with children making memories and her nights on the laptop making magic as a graphic designer. After hearing Aaron's heartbreaking story, she jumps at the chance to help. But she never expected her new boss to be a blue-eyed Adonis with dog tags, who quickly begins to fuel her fantasies.

While the beautiful nanny is off-limits, she's also a welcomed distraction. Aaron's grief is still raw and he just knows he's going to mess up this whole dad thing. Isobel's never shied away from a challenge, and that's exactly what Aaron is--a big challenge. He's angry and stubborn, moody and confusing, and yet she knows deep down he's capable of so much love.

Will Isobel living with the single dad help pull him out of his misery, or will Aaron let the turmoil inside him chase away perhaps the only person that could help him finally find happiness?

** This book can be read as a standalone. It includes lots of steamy scenes, cursing, and of course as with all my books, this has an HEA and no cliffhanger or cheating. If you like single dads who take charge, this book is for you.

** The political views expressed in this book do not necessarily reflect those of the author. This is fiction and the characters will have their own morals, ethics, political and religious views in order to make them well-rounded and realistic.

347 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 7, 2019

238 people are currently reading
1213 people want to read

About the author

Whitley Cox

174 books982 followers
A Canadian West Coast baby born and raised, Whitley is married to her high school sweetheart and together they have two beautiful daughters and a fluffy dog. She spends her days making food that gets thrown on the floor, vacuuming Cheerios out from under the couch and making sure that the dog food doesn't end up in the air conditioner. But when the kids are at school and it's not quite wine o'clock, Whitley sits down, avoids the pile of laundry on the couch, and writes.

A lover of all things decadent; wine, cheese, chocolate and spicy erotic romance, Whitley brings the humorous side of sex, the ridiculous side of relationships and the suspense of everyday life into her stories. With single dads, firefighters, Navy SEALs, mommy wars, body issues, threesomes, bondage and role-playing, Whitley’s books have all the funny and fabulously filthy words you could hope for.

For all foreign translation rights and audiobook rights inquiries please contact literary agent Ena Burnette with SBR Media: ena@sbrmedia.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
Profile Image for QuinnReads.
3,739 reviews211 followers
July 6, 2024
Marshmallow Insides

Whitley Cox The Single Dads of Seattle bks 01-04

3.5 stars - This definitely pulls at every single heartstring as it opens. Aaron Steele was supposed to be the fun uncle, not a single dad. Isobel "Iz" Jones swoops in to essentially save the day.

She has the patience of a saint as she takes on the role of live-in Nanny for a preemie, Sophie, with hunky, broken Uncle Aaron just down the hall.

He was the fixer. Not her. But he was unfixable.
-- Aaron Steele

I love Iz's heart and determination, even when things backfire. She does end up in a few precarious positions, and she gets walked on a bit. Her backbone and willingness to put herself at risk to save another makes her easy to like. The way she FINALLY asserts herself makes her loveable.

Like another book in this series, the hot and cold of the MMC drove me to distraction. Aaron likes her but shows her little to no respect for so long that I was inwardly begging her to leave and not return. The characters have depth but when the ending was nearing the catalyst for correcting the error of his ways was extreme and seemed superficial and out of place. Yes, it was terrifying for those involved but once the adrenaline wore off, then what? A few sappy words should not have corrected the wrongs.

I read along while listening to the audio book. The narrators are Eliza Roberts and Gregory Salinas. Every emotion comes barreling through and is terrificly delivered.

Story: 3.5 stars
Narration: 4.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.7x

H = 38; h = 26ish
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,223 reviews219 followers
August 13, 2019
5 star review of Living With The Single Dad (The Single Dads of Seattle #4) by Whitley Cox
 
I have loved every book in this series so far, and in my opinion Whitley Cox keeps getting better and better.
 
Every time I read a book in this series, I think that this is my favourite and yet Ms.Cox keeps raising the bar. Living With The Single Dad has jumped into the top spot. What an emotional roller coaster of a read this book was; I so wanted Aaron Steele and Isobel Jones to get their happily ever after, if anyone deserved it , Aaron did.

Aaron, a retired Seal has closed himself off to everyone after the senseless death of his sister. Having lost so much he is left reeling and trying to care for his newborn niece without a clue as to what he is doing. Liam know that Aaron is going to struggle so he ask professional nanny Isobel if she will help out.

I knew going into this story that my emotions were going to be all over the place but wow,
Whitley Cox, really ticked all the boxes on this one. My heart broke for Aaron and baby Sophie, it seemed so unfair but sadly the reality is that the circumstances played out in this book can and do happen in real life.

I loved both Aaron and Isobel, separately and most especially together. Despite the darkness that surrounds him, Isobel brings light to his life and slowly but surely her bubbly personality melts the walls he has surrounded himself with and brightens his life.
 
Neither Aaron or Isobel can ignore the smoldering chemistry and growing feelings that sizzle between them. There were times when I laughed and times where I cried. It will make you swoon and I think you will be hard pressed not to fall in love with all of the characters.
I loved that we see other members of the club. The camaraderie and friendships amongst the men is awesome.  

Living With The Single Dad is not only a story about overcoming loss, of working through ones grief, it is a story of friendship, of taking a leap of faith and taking a chance on love and I it was fantastic book.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews256 followers
August 25, 2019
This is the 4th book in this phenomenal “Single Dads” series, and in my honest opinion, these stories just seem to get better and better! Aaron is a retired seal, who is left to bring up his newborn niece Sophie, when his sister passes away. When professional nanny Isobel is told about his predicament, she volunteers to help him. This is a beautifully written story which is heartbreaking, raw, gritty, emotional, humorous, and a steamy read. I was captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and highly recommend for all.
2,794 reviews40 followers
September 3, 2019
Living with the Single Dad (The Single Dads of Seattle Book 4) by Whitley Cox Living with the Single Dad (The Single Dads of Seattle Book 4) By: Whitley Cox
She's Suddenly "Living with the Single Dad" & Play'n House... But It's Not Quite Right!
After His Sister is Shot in a Mall...
He becomes a Single Dad to Her Preemie!
Saying He's in OVER His Head...
YEAH! That's An OVER Statement!
But He's find'n He's got some Friends who'll have His BACK...
And they'll Even HELP Him pick UP the Slack!
'The Single Dads of Seattle' are Tak'n Him into their Fold,
Even Help'n Him find a NANNY to care for His Niece!
Only... The NANNY is a walk'n WET Dream...
And He's gonna have a HARD Time keep'n things platonic it seems!
But He's try'n REAL HARD...
Cuz, She's NOW "Living with the Single Dad!"
And it sure wouldn't be RIGHT...
Tak'n advantage of their Live-IN NANNY Situation~ NO matter how MUCH they want to!
It isn't until a Traumatic Event takes place...
That it nudges them into some Action to Act on their Attraction!
But will they GO ALL the way to an HEA...
or will His Grief & PAST Military Strife keep Him locked Up Tight...
Find OUT by One-Clicking "Living with the Single Dad" TODAY & Reading this Dramatic & S€X¥ Tale!
I was granted, via B00|{$P®0UT, an ARC of Whitley Cox's "Living with the Single Dad (The Single Dads of Seattle Book 4)." I recommend this book to others based upon its own recommendations. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
Profile Image for poppy.
4,589 reviews28 followers
August 22, 2019
This was another really great read and a fantastic addition to the series my heart just broke for Aaron he loses his sister and ends up raising her baby girl and is really struggling to deal with everything. His sister's friend hires Isobel to help him take care of Sophia and she is just what he needs in his life. This was a pretty emotional read at times I enjoyed their story and would definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Jennifer G.
2,882 reviews54 followers
January 15, 2022
Aaron is home again after suffering the worst loss yet in a life too full of tragedy. The former Navy Seal finds himself the sole parent of his newborn niece after his sister was killed in a senseless crime. He never planned to be a father, only the fun uncle, and he has no idea how to be a dad. His sister's best friend, a single dad himself makes arrangements for Isobel, a nanny to help out. Isobel's heart immediately goes out to Aaron and his niece and she quickly becomes invaluable. Her knowledge and heart turn Aaron's house into a home but Aaron's secrets and temper threaten everything.

I am new to this author and found myself enjoying her writing but I had issues with the story. It could have used less drama and more focus on the characters. More time with Isobel and Aaron. More time with Aaron and the other single dads. More people time, less spectacle. We didn't need rescues, Aaron was already a hero. Isobel is a sunshine-sweetheart but not a pushover. She is easy to love. Aaron was complicated, living with demons. Their chemistry was undeniable. However, Aaron was difficult to take. I understand PTSD. I work in a trauma center. The fact this dangerous man was receiving no therapy made me want Isobel to walk away. The wrong trigger and he explodes and she is caught in the crossfire. His lack of communication, his inability to bend, and his anger were all relationship red flags. Sex does not equal communication. It is a great part of a relationship, not the main element. Equally disturbing to me, when he finally opened up, he admitted to losing the woman he loved. And there was no further discussion. I'm sorry, Isobel is female. We need details. This book could have gone from okay to excellent with more relationship building.
Profile Image for EducatedBookFreak.
642 reviews
August 25, 2019
Whitley Cox was a genius for writing this series. They are stand-alones, but are Interconnected with the characters. She has these amazing, heartbroken, beat down characters that make you see how hard life can be.

When she adds these characters, it is one beautifully and flawlessly. She makes it an art by including all these raw
Parts of the men that make you melt for them immediately. The descriptions, characters, plot and pretty much everything about this story will leave you begging for more.

This book is a little different than the previous books that follow this storyline. It is one that grabs your attention from the beginning with all that happens. I adored these two characters and all the struggles that brought them closer together throughout the story.
Profile Image for M.
1,347 reviews12 followers
December 23, 2021
3 stars

Aaron was a massive asshole
Profile Image for Jenn Amy.
910 reviews82 followers
April 11, 2022
Living with the Single Dad by Whitley Cox is the fourth book in The Single Dads of Seattle Series. It can be read standalone but there are many interconnecting characters and I appreciated the story more knowing their back stories.

This story was a much heavier emotionally than the previous books in this series. The pain, loss and grief Aaron is suffering after the loss of his sister was so very heartbreaking. With no other family in the picture Aaron is now the guardian to her newborn baby, Sophie. Aaron is barely keeping his head above water, drowning in his grief but knows he needs some help with Sophie and hires Isobel as her nanny.

I really loved the messages portrayed in this story. Isobel is the glue in this storyline. She has a huge heart and although Aaron didn’t deserve it at times with how often he tried to push her away she never once gave up on him. They have fantastic chemistry, the steam level between them was undeniable but for majority of the story he wouldn’t open up his heart and resisted the thought of committing to more with her. On top of his grief Aaron is struggling with the events that took place during his time in the military. He witnessed something horrific and feels utterly broken. Isobel recognizes that he is unable to see his worth and she doesn't give up. I loved her strength.

Gregory Salinas portraying Aaron was absolutely fantastic. His emotional delivery was gruff and raw, and gave me in all the feels. Eliza Roberts is a new to me narrator. It took a bit to warm up to her voice but in the end I enjoyed her portrayal of Isobel. Her voice is animated and engaging.

*Audiobook received from Pink Flamingo Productions in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Samantha (Millennial Life Crisis Bookshelf).
1,429 reviews22 followers
August 9, 2019
This story hits so real!! With everything going on in the world right now, this storyline is sadly one of the most realistic, and it definitely added another layer into this storyline that I loved. Aaron is a Navy SEAL that has experienced a lot in his time serving, added to the rough childhood he had with his sister in the foster care system. When he receives a call that his sister who recently gave birth to a baby girl, has died in a mass shooting, Aaron is overcome with a combination of grief and responsibility to take care of and raise his niece. Not knowing the first thing to do in taking care of a newborn, his sister’s friend Liam helps him hire Isobel, an experienced nanny and a familiar face in this series (she is Tori from book 1’s sister), and while there are instant sparks between the pair, they have a common goal to care for and raise Sophie. This storyline from Whitley is a little different than the past ones, as there is an added level of drama involved (from being drugged to carjacked), but it really adds to the storyline and the relationship between Aaron and Isobel. The bulk of this book was Aaron attempting to deal with his grief from losing his sister in combination with his PTSD from his time in the navy, and Isobel was the breath of fresh air and voice of reason for him to really help him not only cope, but manage his feelings in a healthier way. I can’t say enough good things about not only Whitley’s writing but this series, and I can’t wait for the next single dad story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Karen_Lee_Reads.
1,302 reviews46 followers
April 11, 2022
Living with the Single Dad
(The Single Dads of Seattle #4)
By Whitley Cox

This is a sad but absolutely beautiful story of a great loss, the love of a newborn baby girl and a woman who is willing to give so much of herself to a man who is dealing with so much grief and stepping up and raising his newborn niece.

Aaron Steele a retired Navy Seal is so out of his wheelhouse when it comes to children, most especially his new niece Sophie. He needs help and he needs help fast. Thankfully, his sister’s friend Liam has been there from the beginning and he thinks he has the perfect nanny for them both, Isobel Jones.

Isobel Jones is perfect, she knows everything he had no idea about, she treats Sophie as her own little girl and she is beautiful and off limits.

This book is jam packed with emotions! From the loss of his sister Dina just after Sophie’s birth, to the grief he still carries from his last mission to his love of a child he has no idea how to take care of Aaron is floundering. Thank goodness he has Isobel. It seems to be working out perfectly, but when he starts to see Isobel for the beautiful woman she is, not just for her ability with his niece a new problem presents itself.

Can he stay away from Isobel, will he ruin this great working relationship they have and will he finally admit he needs to talk to someone about all the things he can’t clear out of his head?

This is one couple you know you will root for through the entire story. Be prepared with tissues, because this potential little family is going to be going through some rough times and they all will need our support.

As I work my way through this series, I continue to be in awe of how real life mirrors these stories. Reading stories that touch you because you may have experienced or know someone who has experienced life issues that Author Whitley Cox gives readers just makes them stories you want to read. The Single Dad’s club is a great series.
Profile Image for Kylee.
3,002 reviews56 followers
August 13, 2019
This series just gets better and better and Living With The Single Dad has just become my absolute favourite of them all to date. Their story had me on one gigantic roller coaster ride of emotions and let's just say I went through a few tissues. Aaron and Isobel were drawn to each other and their story was so much more than falling in love with the Nanny. It was about light and dark, shade and highlights and how one cannot exist without the other. Aaron was a man destroyed by loss, broken and full of rage. Isobel was the woman who lit up a room, who saw the good in everyone and had a heart so big that she could find room for everyone inside it. Aaron and Isobel stole my heart but along the way they had me anxious, unsure and frustrated. A heart wrenching story that is captivating, powerful and inspiring. These two have a chemistry that is so steamy and passionate it will set off the smoke alarms. This book broke me at the start and had me shedding tears of sadness and ended with me in tears but of pure joy and happiness. A massive five stars is the absolute minimum this story could be given but in fact is worth so many more.
Profile Image for Gwen Shafer.
2,223 reviews42 followers
August 21, 2019
First book I have read from Whitley and I loved it. Have tissues because you will need them. This book was a little rough to get through at the beginning. But as the storyline goes on it gets better and better. I absolutely loved the storyline and where the characters were taken. Aaron becomes a single father when something very tragic happens to his sister. Not at all what he had planned. His friend and a very close friend to his sister hires a nanny. But this isn't just any nanny. This is a feisty sexy wants to heal Aaron nanny. But it isn't that easy for either one of them. This storyline grips you from the very beginning to the very end. There is a wonderful storyline with these two that has you holding on to see what is going to happen next with them separately and together. Whitley did an amazing job writing this one and I cant wait to read the rest in this series. So glad I took a chance and read this one.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
August 21, 2019
I loved this beautiful romance. This is Aaron and Isobel's story and it is as heartbreaking as it is heart warming. My heart ached for Aaron, who's story is painful, tragic and unfortunately, exceptionally realistic. His grief, anger, frustration and anxiety seem to seep through the pages and it becomes all too easy to imagine him as someone you know and someone you desperately want to help. Isobel was amazing. Incredibly kind, capable and caring, this spunky female was everything Aaron needed and then some. This couple's chemistry sparked and their pull of attraction was undeniable. I think that this is a powerful and deeply meaningful romance that every romance fan should read. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Profile Image for Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase .
4,826 reviews178 followers
August 5, 2019
As a Navy Seal, Aaron has been in some volatile situations, but nothing compares to being left in charge of your deceased sisters newborn daughter. Needing all the help he can get he hires Isobel to be his live in nanny. But when sparks fly will the two find themselves in a precarious situation? Or will they keep the feelings to themselves and concentrate only on the baby? This book had me in tears from the opening pages. The reader cannot help but fall in love with Aaron and only want him to open up and let others in. Whitley Cox created a beautiful and heart warming romance while tackling the hot topics such as gun control, foster care, and what a true family means. I absolutely love this series!!
Profile Image for Bookish Heidi.
1,819 reviews31 followers
January 9, 2022
This might be my favorite so far in the single dad saga. Aaron, a broken man and Isabelle, a tender woman with a backbone of steel come together to care for Aaron's niece. He has a past he can't face and she might be the best thing that ever happened to him. Love all the little pieces of this story! Isabelle is a freaking warrior for all she went through in this book!
Profile Image for Cassie Ashford.
1,073 reviews10 followers
August 10, 2019
First read from this author and I loved it!

Broody alpha male? Check! Strong, sassy woman? Check! Cute baby? Check! Random drama and crazy friends? Check, check!

Whitley Cox just jumped on my TBR ASAP list!
Profile Image for Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon).
16.4k reviews218 followers
October 5, 2019
I loved this story. It is the kind that you can identify with the characters and immerse yourself in the story. Very well written and characters to win the heart make this book a must read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,571 reviews53 followers
August 25, 2019
Absolutely fantastic yet heartbreaking. This book was my first read from Whitley Cox and it definitely will not be my last. I totally fell for Aaron and Isobel, their story was so emotional. I wasn't expecting to love it, but I ABSOLUTELY did!

Aaron is thrown into single parenthood in the cruelest way and between his grief and terror of messing up raising his baby niece, he know he needs help. Isobel is hired as the nanny and the chemistry between them is unmistakable. Both are drawn to the other but as he refrain from acting on impulse due to their age gap.

Their journey definitely had its challenges but it is how they handled those challenges that will stay with you long after you finish their story. Full of emotion this is a heartwarming story about love, healing and new beginnings.

One thing, I would have loved to read a bit more of Aaron's POV though. But other than that, I absolutely LOVE it! This story was very heartbreaking, yet so beautiful!
Profile Image for Kinky Minx .
183 reviews6 followers
August 25, 2019
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

5 Stars

This is the first time I read from this author and she has definitely set a high bench for her books.
The title + the blurb is already attractive enough, however when I started the book . . . WOAH I immediately fall in love with the story. Highly recommended.


Profile Image for Diana von Dinchen´s Welt.
348 reviews20 followers
November 11, 2022
Vllt. auch eher 2,5 Sterne

Die komplette Reihe ist ok, bedient sich aber komplett Schema F.
Alle Väter sind aus unterschiedlichen Gründen alleinerziehend, finde ihre neue, große Liebe .... am Ende wird geheiratet und Kinder bekommen. Das war´s. Muss ich dafür wirklich 10 Bände hören? Ich glaube nicht. Außerdem wurde es in dem Buch arg übertrieben mit der "Retter-Nummer". Erst wird sie mit K.O. tropfen lahm gelegt, er rettet sie, danach wird sie und das Baby entführt - natürlich rettet er sie auch aus dieser Szene. Ziemlich weit an den Haaren herbeigezogen. Außerdem fand ich in dem Band den Erzählstil sehr abgehakt und eigenartig. Konnte mich damit überhaupt nicht anfreunden.

Interessant ist lediglich warum die Frauen ihre Kinder bei den Vätern lassen und sie diese nicht selbst mitnehmen und großziehen.

Ich weiß noch nicht ob ich die Reihe weiter verfolgen werde.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,169 reviews
August 5, 2023
An uncle suddenly becoming a single dad. Ok, there was promise here for an entertaining read.

Not really! 75% into the book, I finally gave up.

So far, Aaron was struggling mentally to the point that he only had room to include his niece. He was decent to the other guys and women. He used Isobel and blew hot and cold with her through the majority of the book. I was not willing to attribute his behavior to what happened in Columbia since Isobel was the only person he treated that way.

Isobel's so called friend Mercedes, called him out on the way he treated Isobel. Not to say she was completely wrong. I felt like she didn't have room to talk because were it not for her, Isobel would not have had to call Aaron to come rescue them.

Something traumatic happened to both of them. Did Mercedes reach out to Isobel after to see how she was? No. She ran off and did something totally unexpected while Isobel was trying to find her to check up on her. I thought it was a really selfish move on her part considering had it not been for Isobel, Mercedes life would have turned out very different. I wanted to know how Mercedes decided she was madly in love with Colton out of the blue!

Seemed to me like Isobel needed to redefine her definition of friend because I did not consider Mercedes to be one.

The Mercedes wanted to call out Aaron about Columbia! What was wrong with these people? Anyway, I know there was only 25% of the book left, but I couldn't.

I was sick of Aaron's inner dialogue about how strong Isobel was. She only showed any kind of strength when they were being intimate. So, she could tell him what she wanted, where she wanted it, and how she wanted it. She didn't stand up for herself when she was out with Mercedes. She didn't seem to stand up for herself when Aaron was blowing hot and cold before they were intimate. She developed her backbone after the fact. I also was sick of her crying.

I did like Gregory Salinas' narration. The female narrator was entirely irritating. Her female voice was down right grating. I am hoping the tone she took in the book had more to do with the character. She was fine when doing Aaron's voice.

I am sure Aaron and Isobel got their HEA, but they got it without me.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,305 reviews23 followers
January 10, 2022
Fantastic Story & Narration🎧 Riveting & Heartfelt!
Living with the Single Dad
The Single Dads of Seattle, Book 4
By: Whitley Cox
Narrated by: Gregory Salinas, Eliza Roberts

I am loving these single dads of Seattle, each book features a different single Dad who become friends and have a poker night every Saturday to blow off steam. Whitley Cox is a gifted author with a wonderful writing style, she creates stories that are captivating from start the end, the characters and storylines that are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with This book is Aaron Steele and Isobel Jone’s story, Aaron becomes the guardian of his sister Dina’s new born baby after her horrifically tragic and sudden death. Sophie was born premature and remained in the NICU until she was big enough to go home, Aaron was not prepared for any of this and was still in shock from losing his only living relative. Liam, Dina’s work colleague, is there to help Aaron get squared away, he recommended getting a nanny and knew of one. Isobel Jones, an empath, is a professional nanny, as soon as she heard Aaron’s story she knew she was going to take the job, but she got more that she bargained for with Aaron who carried a lot of grief, anger and baggage but she was not one to give up on people. He was completely out of his comfort zone and she agreed to be a live in nanny until he felt more comfortable in parenting a new born. There was some great chemistry between them but Aaron vowed to keep it professional and that is how at first but that kind of chemistry is hard to deny. And when she needed him he was there for her. I loved how everything played out in this book, the story is beautifully plotted with plenty of drama, angst, some surprising events & twists, lots of heartfelt and emotional moments and some hot romance. Whitley Cox, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Gregory Salinas and Eliza Roberts are the perfect cast to bring these characters and their story to life. They had a complete understanding of the characters they portrayed, gave each a voice that suited their character’s persona to a tee, sounding believable in every role they played and just as I pictured the characters to sound. Gregory Salinas played Aaron’s role with perfection, captured his angst-a-tude and his vulnerable moments, Eliza Roberts nailed it as Isobel, grasped her personality perfectly. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and projected them into their performance. These two talented and versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this wonderful listen.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,205 reviews109 followers
September 13, 2025
Everyone grieves differently. There is no right way to grieve. No timeline. No cure. It’s an entity all on its own.

Trigger Warnings include:
This story’s plot revolves heavily around the loss of a loved one and a premature newborn that requires a stay in the NICU, and the heavy emotions that occur with both.
The MMC is a retired SEAL, so there are discussions about his time in the military as well as the emotional toll. There are discussions of his missions in detail that include torture and murder. There is an incident on page that involves drugs and a planned sexual assault that resulted in police involvement. There are also discussions about a soldier committing suicide, childhood trauma involving medical procedures, time in the foster system, a mass shooting, alcoholic parents (one ended up in prison for murder, where they were also murdered). A main character and a child are involved in a life threatening incident.

•Aaron Steele 38
•Isobel / Iz
•Sophie

This was heavy from page one! Not to mention the fact dump about how terrible our dang healthcare system is. (Not sure which worse.) Upon meeting Isobel, I knew instantly how sweet and gentle her heart was. And how easy it would be to enjoy her character! She is actually who Aaron needs in his life. The perfect fit in every way. She was like a balm for his darkness. Iz just wanted to help in every way possible. But most importantly, she wanted to be seen and appreciated. She may be generous, supportive, and may struggle with saying no, but Iz will NEVER be a doormat! There is a whole LOT of emotions and pain circulating under that roof, but there was absolutely undeniable attraction! Their friends stepped in to make SURE they (he) got their sh!t together! The hits kept coming! I am SUCH a sucker for a book that rips apart my heart!

Here’s why I gave this 3 stars instead of the 4 stars I wanted to give it: there were plenty of opportunities for Aaron to have realized the good thing he had. Trust me, PLENTY of other moments…but the danger in which that occured that FINALLY tipped him over the edge??? Just felt like shock value. Avoidable shock value.

My Favorite Quotes:
• “I’m not trying to fix you. I’m trying to show you that you’re not broken.”
• “You’re everything I didn’t know I ever wanted until I had it.”
• “I have hope for the future. I want a future, and I want it with you.”

7/10 Dirty Birdy
3/10 Age Gap
5/10 Forced Proximity
9/10 Single Parent/Guardian
3/10 Workplace Romance
6/10 Series

This is my review for Hired by the Single Dad
2,095 reviews31 followers
August 9, 2019

Wow! How do I put into words how this books makes you feel. Whitley Cox is an amazing wordsmith and weaves Aaron and Isobel’s story with such ease, it’s incredible. You will feel Aaron’ pain, angst and anguish at every turn of the page and you can’t help but feel for him and his huge loss and the heavy turn his life has taken. Isobel, well what can I say but wow, she’s strong, fiery, fun, gorgeous and right to the point, no messing around, she knows what she wants and says it no holds barred. She’s younger than Aaron but wise beyond her years. Tragedy brings these two together and neither expected the other and what they brought to the table to affect them the way it did, but it did. With the help of Liam, he brings Isobel on board to help out with Sophie, Aaron’s niece, he is now her sole provider and he needs help he has no idea how to be a dad and as messed up as he is, well he needs a little help himself and maybe Isobel is the person for the task. The attraction is clear, but she is the nanny and he can’t do that to her, but can he control his urges to grab her and kiss her, he’s going to try at least to keep it professional. How long will he be able to pretend that he doesn’t want her? Long enough to know that he doesn’t like anyone else flirting with her and it pushes him over the edge to make a move. Isobel is a loving soul, caring, will give you the shirt off her back if you needed it, and wants so much more than Aaron can give her, he wants to try, but the demons of his past keep lurking around the corner waiting to come out and he doesn’t want to hurt her, but continues to do it anyway. Isobel is the Ying to Aaron’s Yang and if he could just get out of his own way and see what’s in front of him before he loses it, he just might get what he’s always wanted, happiness. I absolutely loved their story, it’s sexy, deliciously steamy and full of emotions and love from everyone. I loved that the single dads keep popping up in these stories, I love them all and I can’t wait for more. I received an advanced copy of this book.

Profile Image for Lorraine Brattin.
588 reviews4 followers
June 6, 2022
Oh my heart!

The beginning was so heartbreaking! I was in tears reading about the death of Liam's friend, Dina. The fact that she had a premature newborn baby girl named Sophie in the NICU, and was shot and killed at a mall while shopping for baby clothes. I was bawling. Then Aaron, who was Dina's only family member and older brother finding out he is now not only an uncle but now also mother and father. He has no idea how to do this! If he can. Then his friend Liam helps him.

Liam contacted Tori, his friend Mark's new girlfriend to ask about her sister's availability to help out his friend Aaron. Isabella hears the story of baby Sophie and agrees to be her nanny. She has not met either Aaron or Sophie but their story hits her heart.

So when Sophie is released from the hospital, Isabella meets Aaron, Sophie, and Liam at his place. Aaron doesn't know what to think about Isabella. She is young, beautiful and he was thinking more of Mrs. Doubtfire. This could turn out bad. When Aaron let's Isabella know that she needs to move in to help him, she is totally surprised. Then realized that Aaron has never been around a baby and has absolutely no help or idea of what to do, she agrees. She feels she can help them both.

But oh boy is he a Grump! She tries to start conversations but he uses short answers or just grumps. When Isabella calls him out, Aaron is shocked but also mildly turned on by this little thing of a woman who is so much smaller than him.

These three go through a lot to get things figured out. This baby has them both tied in knots. The sexual tension is sky high. Then include the Single Dads Club members and things start happening. Aaron is so jealous of Jax. The big flirt! But when Aaron comes to Isabella's rescue there is nothing holding him back.

I love these two together and boy do they go through a lot! Lots of love between all the friends and family members, and loads of respect for Isabelle's dad. He's something special!

Must keep reading this series. So good! Enjoy
Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,772 reviews41 followers
September 2, 2019
OMG... Another book from this lady... I was so excited to read it that o couldn't start it fast enough.
I had another book I needed to read first, so you can guess my anxiety...
Whitley Cox is the best. This new series that she's writing will hook you up the same way it did to me.
Since reading the first book I knew I needed to grab the other... It has been an amazing journey.
Her writing is sweet, hot and with so many emotions in between.
Living with the Single Dad is her latest release and it's the fourth book from the Single Dads of Seattle series.
I advise you to read the first 3 books. You'll love them.
This new book explores the lives of Aaron and Isobel.
Aaron is a retired Navy Seal that is dealing with the lost of his sister. She died tragically and now he sees himself alone to raise a newborn. He needs help and getting a Nanny is a must.
Isobel is a professional nanny by day and a graphic designer by night. She's amazing with kids and a genius behind her laptop. When she gets the job to help Aaron...
Oh boy... If o thought that the other 3 books were intense... This one was of charts.
Superb plot, very well written, super engaging and intense.
The struggles that each character endured could break them but it made them stronger with the proper help.
Sometimes we need to lean on the ones we love to be able to overcome each obstacle that life brings our way.
There were parts of this story that I wanted to scream and slap someone...jeez... Let's talk about some stubborn people. But there were others that I wanted to hold them and promise better days.
We are faced with so many feelings like loss, love, desire, rage, fear but it was amazing to see them grow up.
And girls... We have some hot stuff into the mix... Hell yeah.
This book was perfect and I can't wait to read the next one.
Please, Whitley... Will we wait too long? Please, not.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,308 reviews22 followers
August 13, 2019
This is the fourth book in the series and it will have you under a spell from the moment you start reading. Gut-wrenching and beautiful, Ms. Cox has a way of weaving so many elements into her storylines that bring out a myriad of emotions while lacing together the harsh realities of the world around us. Aaron is a former Navy Seal who gets the shock of his life when he becomes an instant father to his niece Sophie after the tragic loss of his sister. Not able to handle much, his friend Liam steps in to get him some help by reaching out to Isobel (aka Iz.) Iz is a remarkable woman with a heart of gold and strong conviction when push comes to shove. She is Tori’s sister who readers met in the first book and the type who would give you the shirt off her back. Not knowing what she is getting into, she accepts the position of helping Aaron take care of Sophie. Aaron is doing the best he can with the weight of the world on his shoulders. Iz is willing to cut him some slack for all that Aaron is going through but how much is she willing to take? Is Aaron going to let the best thing walk out of his life or is he strong enough to deal with his demons? I cannot say enough about this book and it should be rated higher than five stars. The depth of these characters will have you thinking about the way we need to treat and respect others. It can be read as a standalone but I suggest reading the books in order to understand the dynamic among the character that make an appearance in this story. I highly recommend this book.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this storyline.
11.6k reviews49 followers
November 8, 2019
Hiring a nanny can get you a whole lot more than expected

Living with the Single Dad is the first book I have read by Whitley Cox. After reading the book description I thought it seemed like it could be a heartwarming story that had some tragedy and humour to it. I was right in that there was definitely tragedy in the way that baby Sophie has come to be in Aaron's care after her mother, his sister, was killed in a mass shooting. So there were some definite political overtones to this story which I was not sure how I would feel when the story first hit upon it. But let's put that aside as I don't want to get into my own personal feelings about guns, gun violence and gun laws or lack there of. Aaron may be a Navy SEAL but he is definitely way over his head with a baby. At least this man knows it and he hires a nanny and in walks Isobel. The only issue with this situation is that Aaron is feeling things for Isobel that he really is not ready for as he is grieving and all the stages that it entails. Isobel wants to help not only Sophie but also Aaron. But will she be able to make him see that love can still be there even when there is such grief and anger?

I thought the author did a fantastic job of writing a really coherent and well thought out story with well developed characters. I found the story to be interesting and loved the fact it is based in Seattle, a city I love even if it rains 300 days a year (okay I am kidding but it sure does seem like it some years).

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Profile Image for Reading to Escape.
1,104 reviews
January 11, 2022
**4.5 Stars**

Living with the Single Dad is probably my favorite book of the series so far. I think twelve minutes in and I felt the tears coming and just knew it was going to be a great book, and now that I am done, that feeling never wavered. It was defiitely more emotional than than some of the others, but I so loved this story.

Aaron and his sister were the only family they had and they were close. She dies unexpectedly, leaving Aaron to care for her newborn baby. Having absolutely no experience with kids, he is definitely overwhelmed and is also grieving. He is also struggling with issues related to his past. Liam, the leader of the Single Dads club helps Aaron out by getting him a nanny, Isobel, who is also Tori's (from book one) sister. Isobel is perfect for Sophie and is patient with Aaron and is many mood swings as he navigates his new normal of fatherhood while grieving the loss of his sister.

I adored both Isobel and Aaron from the very beginning. Although Aaron came across as gruff and angry at times, it was clear he was hurting and had been through so much and needed some good in his life. I loved how much Isobel loved Sophie and how well she fit into her and Aaron's lives. I liked that she was caring and compassionate but tough. I loved her dad and his role in the story also. The ending of this story was absolute perfection!!! I listened to the audiobook and I think it really brought forth all of the emotions of this story even more. A definite must read/listen!
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