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Coming Home
What would happen if your regular, ordinary, safe, everyday existence suddenly became…not any of those things? When Samantha Markson, Ordinary Person, is thrust into the life of Abigail Taylor, Not At All Ordinary Person, it proves to be an experience like she’s never had before. World famous actress Abigail Taylor is in Melbourne filming her new movie, and is accompanied by her nine year old daughter, Grace, because Abigail wants her to experience an Australian education for three months. Sam Markson is a teacher at one of the best schools in Melbourne, and is perfectly happy doing that, thank you very much, when she’s suddenly redirected from the classroom into the job as Grace’s teacher; a move so fast that even blinking would feel like slow motion. Sam has never met anyone like Abigail Taylor, and she starts to realise that her ordinary life might actually be missing something extraordinary.
71,000 words
71,000 words
245 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2019
237 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
K.J .
12 books413 followersBest-selling author KJ lives in Bendigo, Australia with her wife, their son, three cats and a dog. She started writing interesting observations of life, literary articles, poetry, creative non-fiction, and personal essays, and eventually they were all sort of smooshed together in a giant author-y blender and out popped a book. Then another. The blender is currently in use for KJ’s next novel. Her books are best-sellers, with all either finalists or winners in the Goldie Awards, IHeartSapphic, eLit Awards and LesFic Bard awards. KJ also writes novels under her other pen name: K.J. Wrights
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
October 16, 2022
**'If only books are as good as they are portrayed or deemed to be..'
2.5stars!
A somewhat funny story at times but... -- where is their chemistry? And i'm still trying to figure out why their relationship came into existence...
p.s. -- This is my perspective!
2.5stars!
A somewhat funny story at times but... -- where is their chemistry? And i'm still trying to figure out why their relationship came into existence...
p.s. -- This is my perspective!
September 20, 2019
This is my first read by this author and I was pleasantly surprised!
This is such a wonderfully feel good fluffy romantic and incredibly sweet book :)
Sam the MC was a sweetheart! From the first page of the book I had the biggest smile on my face! I laughed a lot, smiled a lot, and was very sad at a certain point. In my humble opinion, if a book manages to make you have all those feelings then no need to focus on the other minor details that could potentially bother you :)
is it a bit cheesy? Yes. Is it a bit predictable? Yes. Do I care? NO! So I totally recommend this one if you need a fluffy read that would just make you feel so damn good :)
4.5 rounded up to 5..
This is such a wonderfully feel good fluffy romantic and incredibly sweet book :)
Sam the MC was a sweetheart! From the first page of the book I had the biggest smile on my face! I laughed a lot, smiled a lot, and was very sad at a certain point. In my humble opinion, if a book manages to make you have all those feelings then no need to focus on the other minor details that could potentially bother you :)
is it a bit cheesy? Yes. Is it a bit predictable? Yes. Do I care? NO! So I totally recommend this one if you need a fluffy read that would just make you feel so damn good :)
4.5 rounded up to 5..
September 4, 2019
This a very very sweet story. If you’re not into overwhelming chemistry and nice people being happy, Coming Home is probably not for you, but you’ll be missing out.
Sam (a total sweetheart) is a Year 4 teacher in a private school in Melbourne, Australia. At the start of the new year, she’s volunteered by the school director to tutor famous Hollywood actress Abigail Taylor’s daughter Grace while the star is in town for a movie. Sam is a huge Taylor fan, and pretty soon, both Grace and Abigail (Abby) in return become huge Sam fans. That’s what being a total sweetheart gets you.
Something is obviously happening from the beginning between Sam and Abby. I wouldn’t say it’s love at first sight, but there’s definitely interest. As much as I loved the relationship between Sam and Grace and even though I know the way to a mother’s heart is through her kids, I wish there had been more Sam / Abby interaction in the first part of the story. From the little there is, the chemistry is ginormous, but still, it feels a little too much of the first stages of falling for each other happens backstage. After a while, it gets much more balanced and all is well in the world. Until, of course, the movie is almost done and Abby and Grace prepare to go back to Los Angeles.
I’ve been reading a lot of books with children in them, and either I’m getting old and soft or authors are getting better at writing kids. In any case, Grace completely sounds like a real child, a very charming, vivacious nine-year-old one, and she’s an important and welcome part of the story.
Both Abby and Sam are good people and you can’t help wanting them to be happy. Sam is so talented at making everyone around her feel good and at ease that, apart from Stacey (Abby’s PR person), every character feels like someone who would make a good friend. I don’t know how much of that comes from the characters themselves or from the fact that the reader comes to know them through their interplay with Sam. She seems to make everybody happy so maybe we only see their good side, thanks to her.
There’s a contagious energy in this book that comes from the characters’ spirited personalities but also from the structure of the story, which is told in rather short scenes. It’s both good and bad in that it gives the story an excellent pace but at the same time, I wish I had had more time to settle in some of the scenes, to immerse myself a little longer in the feelings they evoke. Because they are pretty big feelings. And that’s definitely a good thing.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sam (a total sweetheart) is a Year 4 teacher in a private school in Melbourne, Australia. At the start of the new year, she’s volunteered by the school director to tutor famous Hollywood actress Abigail Taylor’s daughter Grace while the star is in town for a movie. Sam is a huge Taylor fan, and pretty soon, both Grace and Abigail (Abby) in return become huge Sam fans. That’s what being a total sweetheart gets you.
Something is obviously happening from the beginning between Sam and Abby. I wouldn’t say it’s love at first sight, but there’s definitely interest. As much as I loved the relationship between Sam and Grace and even though I know the way to a mother’s heart is through her kids, I wish there had been more Sam / Abby interaction in the first part of the story. From the little there is, the chemistry is ginormous, but still, it feels a little too much of the first stages of falling for each other happens backstage. After a while, it gets much more balanced and all is well in the world. Until, of course, the movie is almost done and Abby and Grace prepare to go back to Los Angeles.
I’ve been reading a lot of books with children in them, and either I’m getting old and soft or authors are getting better at writing kids. In any case, Grace completely sounds like a real child, a very charming, vivacious nine-year-old one, and she’s an important and welcome part of the story.
Both Abby and Sam are good people and you can’t help wanting them to be happy. Sam is so talented at making everyone around her feel good and at ease that, apart from Stacey (Abby’s PR person), every character feels like someone who would make a good friend. I don’t know how much of that comes from the characters themselves or from the fact that the reader comes to know them through their interplay with Sam. She seems to make everybody happy so maybe we only see their good side, thanks to her.
There’s a contagious energy in this book that comes from the characters’ spirited personalities but also from the structure of the story, which is told in rather short scenes. It’s both good and bad in that it gives the story an excellent pace but at the same time, I wish I had had more time to settle in some of the scenes, to immerse myself a little longer in the feelings they evoke. Because they are pretty big feelings. And that’s definitely a good thing.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 6, 2019
Really solidly written and very entertaining book with great characterization but could have benefited from stronger editing and better ebook formatting. Will definitely keep an eye on KJ's new offerings in future and read her backlist.
4.25 stars
September 6, 2019
4.25 stars
September 6, 2019
April 18, 2021
Second read. Still loved it.
---
Ordinary plus extraordinary equal an adorable and heartwarming courtship.
Sam Markson is a coveted teacher at a posh private school in Melbourne, Australia. Abigail Taylor is a famous american movie star that needs someone to watch and provide education to her daughter while she is filming. Sam's father, who works in show business, recommends his daughter for the job.
This book is available through Kindle Unlimited. You never know what kind of quality you are going to get. But I had seen quite a few positive reviews flowing through, so I decided to give this a shot. I am so glad that I did and I hope more people do as well.
I loved Sam. Good at her job and bad with women. She just doesn't know how to interact with them in order to pursue any interest she has. Which is so surprising because she is charismatic, likable, and above average at making people feel comfortable. She is thoughtful and doesn't take herself too seriously. The way that she interacts with Abigail's daughter is special. That relationship was as sweet to witness as the one between Sam and Abigail.
So many romance books tell the reader how much characters love each other. So few excel at showing you them falling. Honestly, I can't say I remember a book that did it better. This was full of moments. You could feel the adoration. Anytime Abigail observed Sam with Grace was swoon worthy.
This was proudly Australian. I learned a bit about the crazy local ideas of interesting foods. And it was funny to read about an american accent.
Overall, this book way exceeded my expectations. It was a charming story of falling in love despite everything that says you shouldn't.
I recommend this to everyone. I don't think you will be disappointed. Romance, Australia, celebrity, education, relationships, volunteering, animals, dance offs, and some horrific sounding food called a chip roll.
---
Ordinary plus extraordinary equal an adorable and heartwarming courtship.
Sam Markson is a coveted teacher at a posh private school in Melbourne, Australia. Abigail Taylor is a famous american movie star that needs someone to watch and provide education to her daughter while she is filming. Sam's father, who works in show business, recommends his daughter for the job.
This book is available through Kindle Unlimited. You never know what kind of quality you are going to get. But I had seen quite a few positive reviews flowing through, so I decided to give this a shot. I am so glad that I did and I hope more people do as well.
I loved Sam. Good at her job and bad with women. She just doesn't know how to interact with them in order to pursue any interest she has. Which is so surprising because she is charismatic, likable, and above average at making people feel comfortable. She is thoughtful and doesn't take herself too seriously. The way that she interacts with Abigail's daughter is special. That relationship was as sweet to witness as the one between Sam and Abigail.
So many romance books tell the reader how much characters love each other. So few excel at showing you them falling. Honestly, I can't say I remember a book that did it better. This was full of moments. You could feel the adoration. Anytime Abigail observed Sam with Grace was swoon worthy.
This was proudly Australian. I learned a bit about the crazy local ideas of interesting foods. And it was funny to read about an american accent.
Overall, this book way exceeded my expectations. It was a charming story of falling in love despite everything that says you shouldn't.
I recommend this to everyone. I don't think you will be disappointed. Romance, Australia, celebrity, education, relationships, volunteering, animals, dance offs, and some horrific sounding food called a chip roll.
July 29, 2020
I loved Coming Home when I first read it and for the life of me, I can’t understand why I gave it only 4*. The audiobook version is just as good so I’m upgrading it to the 5* I should have rated it in the first place.
Since I already reviewed the story, I’ll just say that chapter 18 broke my heart all over again, then focus on the narration. I loved it. It’s Ruth Guice’s first audiobook, and I guess it shows a little in some of the pauses that are a tad too long, or a couple of instances where the pace slows down a bit, but it really doesn’t matter when everything else is so freaking good. Sam’s voice is awesome, just as sweet as I imagined, Grace’s sounds like the adorable kid she is and Abigail’s voice is perfectly sexy, as befits a Hollywood superstar.
K.J . is an Australian author, and the story is set in Melbourne, so she went with an Australian voice-over artist, which pleases my ears a lot. I hope Ms Guice keeps narrating lesfic, KJ’s other books of course, but also various authors’, because she’s a real find. She brought tears to my eyes quite a few times, and managed to bring even text messages to life. That’s serious talent.
Since I already reviewed the story, I’ll just say that chapter 18 broke my heart all over again, then focus on the narration. I loved it. It’s Ruth Guice’s first audiobook, and I guess it shows a little in some of the pauses that are a tad too long, or a couple of instances where the pace slows down a bit, but it really doesn’t matter when everything else is so freaking good. Sam’s voice is awesome, just as sweet as I imagined, Grace’s sounds like the adorable kid she is and Abigail’s voice is perfectly sexy, as befits a Hollywood superstar.
K.J . is an Australian author, and the story is set in Melbourne, so she went with an Australian voice-over artist, which pleases my ears a lot. I hope Ms Guice keeps narrating lesfic, KJ’s other books of course, but also various authors’, because she’s a real find. She brought tears to my eyes quite a few times, and managed to bring even text messages to life. That’s serious talent.
November 6, 2019
Breezed through this lovely read on the train to Paris last weekend. I'm a total sucker for books featuring celebrities. *swoon* Considering there are already quite a few well written reviews out there, i'll keep this short.
The book contains some light humor and lots of fluffy feel good moments involving Grace, Abigail's far too well behaved 9 year old daughter. The banter between Sam and the security guards is a personal favorite of mine.
It's also fairly low in angst except for one particular moment that had me gaping at my e-reader going "How is this happening?" That scene was crazy and took me completely by surprise.
Though I can't label this as a classic slow burn, the book builds up great chemistry towards what will eventually become a relationship between Sam and Abigail.
The only thing that caused some questions for me was the switch in Sam's character.
There you have it folks, an overall 3,5* rating for this gem from down under.
The book contains some light humor and lots of fluffy feel good moments involving Grace, Abigail's far too well behaved 9 year old daughter. The banter between Sam and the security guards is a personal favorite of mine.
It's also fairly low in angst except for one particular moment that had me gaping at my e-reader going "How is this happening?" That scene was crazy and took me completely by surprise.
Though I can't label this as a classic slow burn, the book builds up great chemistry towards what will eventually become a relationship between Sam and Abigail.
The only thing that caused some questions for me was the switch in Sam's character.
There you have it folks, an overall 3,5* rating for this gem from down under.
August 12, 2025
I loved this one by K.J. my third by the author. In particular I loved the writing, the dialogue, the location, but mostly that a nine year old was one of the major characters and actually was the entire reason for the relationship to even start, then develop. I have a soft spot for children with major roles in adult books, romances in particular. I have copied several quotes from the book that I particularly liked. It helps that the book takes place entirely in Australia, even if in Melbourne. A couple of parts towards the end didn't completely work for me which kept it from being five stars. 4.5 for me.
Checking the temperature on the app as soon as she woke up the next day confirmed to Sam that she was truly a Melbournian. Weather was an obsessive topic of conversation amongst the residents of the city, and today’s cooler temperature would be on everyone’s lips. (p. 11).
Sam heard the door softly close, and that seemed to be the starting gun for breathing, heart beats, and other necessary functions. Oh. Wow. (p. 139).
The way Sam looked at her? That made her feel like she’d been wrapped up in a fluffy towel straight out of a dryer. (p. 171).
They stared at each other. Sam’s eyebrows were completely horizontal over her eyes, which in turn were shooting sparks, and Abby clamped her molars, putting her jaw muscles through an aerobics routine. (pp. 205-206).
The collection of wonderful emotions that suddenly threw a party in Abby’s heart nearly overwhelmed her. (pp. 213-214).
Marina exited the studio car park like road rules were suggestions. (p. 266).
The proliferation of exclamation marks was like too many candles on a birthday cake, as details of the day’s events were invented and laid down as fact. (p. 285).
“But I’m a bit sorry about one thing. I think I sent my heart out on a journey without any instructions, and now it’s slightly lost.” (p. 294).
Checking the temperature on the app as soon as she woke up the next day confirmed to Sam that she was truly a Melbournian. Weather was an obsessive topic of conversation amongst the residents of the city, and today’s cooler temperature would be on everyone’s lips. (p. 11).
Sam heard the door softly close, and that seemed to be the starting gun for breathing, heart beats, and other necessary functions. Oh. Wow. (p. 139).
The way Sam looked at her? That made her feel like she’d been wrapped up in a fluffy towel straight out of a dryer. (p. 171).
They stared at each other. Sam’s eyebrows were completely horizontal over her eyes, which in turn were shooting sparks, and Abby clamped her molars, putting her jaw muscles through an aerobics routine. (pp. 205-206).
The collection of wonderful emotions that suddenly threw a party in Abby’s heart nearly overwhelmed her. (pp. 213-214).
Marina exited the studio car park like road rules were suggestions. (p. 266).
The proliferation of exclamation marks was like too many candles on a birthday cake, as details of the day’s events were invented and laid down as fact. (p. 285).
“But I’m a bit sorry about one thing. I think I sent my heart out on a journey without any instructions, and now it’s slightly lost.” (p. 294).
March 19, 2021
Coming Home by K.J. – 5 Stars for this pleasant, enjoyable romance.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I doubt it will be my last. Samantha (Sam) Markson teaches the American equivalent of 4th grade at an exclusive private school in Melbourne, Australia. She is hired to teach and in effect be a nanny to Grace, the 9 year old daughter, of the world famous American actress, Abigail Taylor for three months. Abigail is in Melbourne to shoot a movie. Sam plans to teach Grace academics but also wants to take her in the afternoons around Melbourne to visit museums, galleries, sights etc. Because of Abigail’s long hours most days, Sam agrees to also stay overnight.
Sam is a great character. She is tall (her exact height isn’t given but I assume almost 6 feet), thin and blonde. Her best friend, Cath describes Sam as gorgeous and Sam tells her “I’m not gorgeous, I’m interesting looking. It’s an important difference.” But I think most importantly, she is kind with a quick wit and self-effacing humor. She actively makes friends, by being considerate and observant. For instance, she quickly charms Abigail’s huge, scary American bodyguards with her humor and later by regularly bringing them Australian sweets to taste. She makes those around her smile and laugh, especially Abigail and Grace. But what also makes her a great teacher, she is able to “command” attention when she needs to.
I was pleasantly surprised when Chapter 7 opens with Abigail’s point of view. Until then it was just Sam’s. With Abby’s POV, the mutual attraction and chemistry was off the charts. Such a contrast from a recent book I read where I felt the chemistry between the MCs was practically nil (and very disappointing). Or maybe because of the difference between the two books, made this chemistry standout? Doesn’t matter, I enjoyed it. It made me think about what is chemistry between characters? Yeah, I had to google it and asked a couple of friends. (Research is what I do). It’s one of those “You’ll know it when you see it” type of concepts. I found an excellent article Romantic Chemistry and this story ticked *all* the boxes.
The other main characters are Grace, who bonds with Sam almost immediately. She is intelligent and yet acts her age. And Cath is fun and supportive. I was pleasantly surprised when the author wrote in a Filipino woman bodyguard. You don’t ever see that.
I will be amiss if I don’t mention an instance in the book when I was very surprised by one character’s reaction to a situation that felt forced. It was immediately resolved which really made it stick out, but I was happy that it didn’t linger.
Check out this book if you in the mood for a nice romance.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I doubt it will be my last. Samantha (Sam) Markson teaches the American equivalent of 4th grade at an exclusive private school in Melbourne, Australia. She is hired to teach and in effect be a nanny to Grace, the 9 year old daughter, of the world famous American actress, Abigail Taylor for three months. Abigail is in Melbourne to shoot a movie. Sam plans to teach Grace academics but also wants to take her in the afternoons around Melbourne to visit museums, galleries, sights etc. Because of Abigail’s long hours most days, Sam agrees to also stay overnight.
Sam is a great character. She is tall (her exact height isn’t given but I assume almost 6 feet), thin and blonde. Her best friend, Cath describes Sam as gorgeous and Sam tells her “I’m not gorgeous, I’m interesting looking. It’s an important difference.” But I think most importantly, she is kind with a quick wit and self-effacing humor. She actively makes friends, by being considerate and observant. For instance, she quickly charms Abigail’s huge, scary American bodyguards with her humor and later by regularly bringing them Australian sweets to taste. She makes those around her smile and laugh, especially Abigail and Grace. But what also makes her a great teacher, she is able to “command” attention when she needs to.
I was pleasantly surprised when Chapter 7 opens with Abigail’s point of view. Until then it was just Sam’s. With Abby’s POV, the mutual attraction and chemistry was off the charts. Such a contrast from a recent book I read where I felt the chemistry between the MCs was practically nil (and very disappointing). Or maybe because of the difference between the two books, made this chemistry standout? Doesn’t matter, I enjoyed it. It made me think about what is chemistry between characters? Yeah, I had to google it and asked a couple of friends. (Research is what I do). It’s one of those “You’ll know it when you see it” type of concepts. I found an excellent article Romantic Chemistry and this story ticked *all* the boxes.
The other main characters are Grace, who bonds with Sam almost immediately. She is intelligent and yet acts her age. And Cath is fun and supportive. I was pleasantly surprised when the author wrote in a Filipino woman bodyguard. You don’t ever see that.
I will be amiss if I don’t mention an instance in the book when I was very surprised by one character’s reaction to a situation that felt forced. It was immediately resolved which really made it stick out, but I was happy that it didn’t linger.
Check out this book if you in the mood for a nice romance.
February 27, 2022
**This is my second listen to this audiobook, I was ill this week and needed a feel-good story that didn't require much concentration and I found that Coming Home was the perfect fit for that. **
Review of ‘Coming Home’ by KJ, audiobook narrated by Ruth Guice
I’ve only heard good things about this sweet lesbian romance story published last year and yet I hadn’t managed to read it. As the audiobook version was released, I’m glad I’ve listened to it as I’ve not only discovered a very good author but also a new talented narrator.
When Samantha Markson, an ordinary school teacher in Melbourne, was offered a temporary private tuition job with celebrity actress Abigail Taylor’s daughter, she couldn’t believe her luck. Abby is a gorgeous famous actress but also a caring mother and a down to earth person. There is an intense attraction between them from the start but their lives are so different that they wouldn’t have a chance at love, or would they?
Who doesn’t love an age-gap, celebrity/ordinary person romance? If you do, this book is for you. ‘Coming Home’ is an extremely sweet lesbian love story, low in angst, with very likable characters and off-the-charts chemistry. All the characters, mains, and secondary, are very well fleshed out and their relationships are believable. I’m sometimes wary of the portrayal of children in literature, but 9-year-old Grace is very authentic in that mixture of ingenuity and maturity that children her age have.
I like the way KJ writes, her use of metaphors is funny and refreshing, and the lightness of those words add to the overall feel-good tone of the story. The chemistry between both leads was a slow nice build-up that developed into very sensual and hot sex scenes. There’s even a place for fast-paced action in the story which I didn’t see it coming and was a clever pivotal moment in the book.
I’ve listened to the audiobook version narrated by Ruth Guice and I was pleasantly surprised. I gather that Ms. Guice is quite new to book narration but I’ll keep an eye on her next releases. Her performance of the different emotions in the book was excellent and her different voices for the characters were spot on (with maybe the exception of the male ones). I particularly loved her rendition of Abby, her husky voice tone oozing with sensuality. So, if you are looking for a feel-good romance audiobook, I highly recommend this one. 4.5 stars.
Available with a Scribd subscription.
Duration: 10 hrs and 11 mins
Review of ‘Coming Home’ by KJ, audiobook narrated by Ruth Guice
I’ve only heard good things about this sweet lesbian romance story published last year and yet I hadn’t managed to read it. As the audiobook version was released, I’m glad I’ve listened to it as I’ve not only discovered a very good author but also a new talented narrator.
When Samantha Markson, an ordinary school teacher in Melbourne, was offered a temporary private tuition job with celebrity actress Abigail Taylor’s daughter, she couldn’t believe her luck. Abby is a gorgeous famous actress but also a caring mother and a down to earth person. There is an intense attraction between them from the start but their lives are so different that they wouldn’t have a chance at love, or would they?
Who doesn’t love an age-gap, celebrity/ordinary person romance? If you do, this book is for you. ‘Coming Home’ is an extremely sweet lesbian love story, low in angst, with very likable characters and off-the-charts chemistry. All the characters, mains, and secondary, are very well fleshed out and their relationships are believable. I’m sometimes wary of the portrayal of children in literature, but 9-year-old Grace is very authentic in that mixture of ingenuity and maturity that children her age have.
I like the way KJ writes, her use of metaphors is funny and refreshing, and the lightness of those words add to the overall feel-good tone of the story. The chemistry between both leads was a slow nice build-up that developed into very sensual and hot sex scenes. There’s even a place for fast-paced action in the story which I didn’t see it coming and was a clever pivotal moment in the book.
I’ve listened to the audiobook version narrated by Ruth Guice and I was pleasantly surprised. I gather that Ms. Guice is quite new to book narration but I’ll keep an eye on her next releases. Her performance of the different emotions in the book was excellent and her different voices for the characters were spot on (with maybe the exception of the male ones). I particularly loved her rendition of Abby, her husky voice tone oozing with sensuality. So, if you are looking for a feel-good romance audiobook, I highly recommend this one. 4.5 stars.
Available with a Scribd subscription.
Duration: 10 hrs and 11 mins
August 26, 2019
This was my first novel by this author, and WOW I just loved it. As I know this is her third book yet. And I will definitely be reading the others too.
The story is a heartwarming romance with “Sam” Samantha Markson and “Abby” Abigail Taylor in lead roles. But there is a third really important person I can’t leave out, Abby’s nine-year-old daughter Grace. And don't stop because of that child, she's just great. It isn’t a new kind of story but even when I knew what will be the problem, it didn’t stop me from reading this sweet love story.
When Abby, a world-famous actress from the States, comes to Melbourne for starring in her new film, she brings with her Grace. She wants for her daughter that she learns as much as she can about the country her mother originally is coming from. She hires a private teacher and therefore Sam is coming on the scene. Sam is a teacher at a private girls school when the school's director gives her the order to teach a nine-year-old girl for three months.
I fell in love with Sam immediately, her humor, her ability to make everybody at ease and her charm let me fall for her. That she is tall, blonde and beautiful didn’t hurt either. She’s such a sweetheart. Like Sam, I also had a little crush on Abby too, the gorgeous, beautiful actress. The chemistry is great and sparks are flying very soon, but it isn’t instant love, it’s more of a slow-burn romance. Whit the sword of Damocles hanging above their heads, both women don’t want to start something with each other when after three months Abby will go back to the US. But as you know, you can’t organize everything in your life as you want, especially when it comes to love.
The romance is sweet, but what I liked the most, was the talking and the interaction with each other. It is written very well with a great part of humor and witty comments, and with some great secondary characters as well. Sam, Abby, and Grace are very well characterized and developed and the whole story is realistic.
I highly recommend this book to every romance lover, I’m happy I’ve read this book and have discovered a new author for me.
My rating 4.75 stars
ARC provided by the author and LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
The story is a heartwarming romance with “Sam” Samantha Markson and “Abby” Abigail Taylor in lead roles. But there is a third really important person I can’t leave out, Abby’s nine-year-old daughter Grace. And don't stop because of that child, she's just great. It isn’t a new kind of story but even when I knew what will be the problem, it didn’t stop me from reading this sweet love story.
When Abby, a world-famous actress from the States, comes to Melbourne for starring in her new film, she brings with her Grace. She wants for her daughter that she learns as much as she can about the country her mother originally is coming from. She hires a private teacher and therefore Sam is coming on the scene. Sam is a teacher at a private girls school when the school's director gives her the order to teach a nine-year-old girl for three months.
I fell in love with Sam immediately, her humor, her ability to make everybody at ease and her charm let me fall for her. That she is tall, blonde and beautiful didn’t hurt either. She’s such a sweetheart. Like Sam, I also had a little crush on Abby too, the gorgeous, beautiful actress. The chemistry is great and sparks are flying very soon, but it isn’t instant love, it’s more of a slow-burn romance. Whit the sword of Damocles hanging above their heads, both women don’t want to start something with each other when after three months Abby will go back to the US. But as you know, you can’t organize everything in your life as you want, especially when it comes to love.
The romance is sweet, but what I liked the most, was the talking and the interaction with each other. It is written very well with a great part of humor and witty comments, and with some great secondary characters as well. Sam, Abby, and Grace are very well characterized and developed and the whole story is realistic.
I highly recommend this book to every romance lover, I’m happy I’ve read this book and have discovered a new author for me.
My rating 4.75 stars
ARC provided by the author and LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2020
This was a sweet book made sweeter by the Australian voice actor Ruth Guice. She gives the already charming Melbourne teacher Samantha (call me Sam) Markson center stage while mastering Abigail Taylor's sultry American accent. This is a celebrity, age-gap, slow burn romance but Abby's celebrity takes a backstage to all that is kind and good in Sam and her approach to tutoring Abby's nine year old daughter Grace while her Mom works hard on her movie set. Sam and Grace's relationship develops first and is the source of much of the sweetness in this book. The growing attraction between Sam and Abby happens naturally and adds some heat to this cute and entertaining read.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
February 16, 2021
Coming Home is an all around feel good read and I ended up liking this story a lot more than I thought I would.
The story delivers an age gap f/f romance between a Hollywood celebrity (Abby) and an ordinary teacher (Sam), adding in that the celebrity has a daughter so we see them come together as a family unit. Sam becomes the live-in nanny/teacher for Grace, the daughter of Abby, creating an intimate bubble for the relationships to develop. The story is more unique in that the child has just as much of a starring role as the couple.
Both Sam and Abby are really likable characters. There is drama but it's not the eye-rolling kind since it feels organic to the story and KJ, the author, addressed it well.
One thing I did find lacking is the actual initial romantic chemistry between Sam and Abby. It's more of a told rather than show and I felt more was done off page than on that I would've liked to have seen. But, the story also has so many warm fuzzies that it still kind of worked and their relationship seemed fairly strong regardless. Also, Sam is supposed to be completely awkward around women but then she's also a complete people expert so I was kind of iffy there. But, shrugs.
There is an ultra dramatic sequence that occurs far into the story where I thought, "Oh, here we go with the contrived drama" but I was really pleasantly surprised. I think it was probably the most well executed part of the story and I ended up appreciating how it unfolded.
The audiobook was delivered well by narrator Ruth Guice as she had to handle American and Australian accents.
Overall, I wouldn't say I was completely blown away by this read but I was definitely charmed and I appreciate it for the sweet, feel good story that it is.
3.9 stars
Available on Scribd.
The story delivers an age gap f/f romance between a Hollywood celebrity (Abby) and an ordinary teacher (Sam), adding in that the celebrity has a daughter so we see them come together as a family unit. Sam becomes the live-in nanny/teacher for Grace, the daughter of Abby, creating an intimate bubble for the relationships to develop. The story is more unique in that the child has just as much of a starring role as the couple.
Both Sam and Abby are really likable characters. There is drama but it's not the eye-rolling kind since it feels organic to the story and KJ, the author, addressed it well.
One thing I did find lacking is the actual initial romantic chemistry between Sam and Abby. It's more of a told rather than show and I felt more was done off page than on that I would've liked to have seen. But, the story also has so many warm fuzzies that it still kind of worked and their relationship seemed fairly strong regardless. Also, Sam is supposed to be completely awkward around women but then she's also a complete people expert so I was kind of iffy there. But, shrugs.
There is an ultra dramatic sequence that occurs far into the story where I thought, "Oh, here we go with the contrived drama" but I was really pleasantly surprised. I think it was probably the most well executed part of the story and I ended up appreciating how it unfolded.
The audiobook was delivered well by narrator Ruth Guice as she had to handle American and Australian accents.
Overall, I wouldn't say I was completely blown away by this read but I was definitely charmed and I appreciate it for the sweet, feel good story that it is.
3.9 stars
Available on Scribd.
August 31, 2019
4.5
This was seriously good. I really enjoyed it. First book by K.J ... and wont be the last.
This was seriously good. I really enjoyed it. First book by K.J ... and wont be the last.
June 6, 2021
5+ stars. This was a really sweet story that I enjoyed very much.
Teacher Sam and world famos actress Abby were really cute together, but the romance was almost overshadowed by the great relationship between Sam and Abby's daughter Gracie Grace. This was so heartwarming. All secondary characters were well drawn and fun, too.
All in all, there were a few minor things I didn't like, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ruth Guice is a narrator to watch out for. I understand she is new to the business and there were a few bumps in the book with the pace (sometimes it felt too slow, especially during the bed scene), but overall she did a really good job and I'm looking forward to listening to her next narration.
Edit: Rating changed from 4 to 5 stars. So after I got to know the author a little via Jae's FB group and read two other of KJ's books that I really liked, I decided to listen to Coming Home again. Amazed by the author's great writing style, I couldn't understand why I didn't really remember much of Coming Home. So!
And I must say, this time I really could appreciate even more what a great and sweet book it was.
This time, I noticed the great chemistry much more, and also Abby became much more dear and clear to me as a character. Although I still would have liked to actually listen to one of their deep midnight and wine conversations, their chemisty was radiating off the pages now (whatever this is for audiobooks). Also, I gave soft spot for women calling her lover "sweetheart" so this was an added bonus.
Also this time, I really loved Abby's voice, it was so very sexy! The narrator's pacing wasn't much an issue with me now, as Scribd allows 1.2x speed and this was perfect. Very much looking forward to her next lesbian book.
I think I'll even listen to it again some time soon as this was really swoonworthy..
Teacher Sam and world famos actress Abby were really cute together, but the romance was almost overshadowed by the great relationship between Sam and Abby's daughter Gracie Grace. This was so heartwarming. All secondary characters were well drawn and fun, too.
All in all, there were a few minor things I didn't like, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ruth Guice is a narrator to watch out for. I understand she is new to the business and there were a few bumps in the book with the pace (sometimes it felt too slow, especially during the bed scene), but overall she did a really good job and I'm looking forward to listening to her next narration.
Edit: Rating changed from 4 to 5 stars. So after I got to know the author a little via Jae's FB group and read two other of KJ's books that I really liked, I decided to listen to Coming Home again. Amazed by the author's great writing style, I couldn't understand why I didn't really remember much of Coming Home. So!
And I must say, this time I really could appreciate even more what a great and sweet book it was.
This time, I noticed the great chemistry much more, and also Abby became much more dear and clear to me as a character. Although I still would have liked to actually listen to one of their deep midnight and wine conversations, their chemisty was radiating off the pages now (whatever this is for audiobooks). Also, I gave soft spot for women calling her lover "sweetheart" so this was an added bonus.
Also this time, I really loved Abby's voice, it was so very sexy! The narrator's pacing wasn't much an issue with me now, as Scribd allows 1.2x speed and this was perfect. Very much looking forward to her next lesbian book.
I think I'll even listen to it again some time soon as this was really swoonworthy..
March 19, 2021
KJ - Coming Home -Audiobook Review
5 Stars for the book, 5 Stars for the narrator, Ruth Guice
I already wrote a Goodreads review for the ebook in Apr 2020, so I won't give an in-depth review. In short this book is about a famous American actress, Abigail Taylor who brings her 9 year old daughter, Grace to Melbourne, Australia. She hires a gifted teacher, Samantha (Sam) Markson to be her daughter's teacher and because of Abby's long hours to essentially be a live-in nanny for the few months of their visit. Sam not only teaches Grace academics but also takes her around Melbourne to museums and galleries. After listening to this book, I've decided that Sam is one of my favorite Lesfic characters. She's a tall, attractive Australian Mary Poppins/Maria Von Trapp all rolled into one, minus the singing.
I don't know where K.J. found the Australian voice actress, Ruth Guice but I hope she uses her again in her next audiobook. As far as I could tell this is Guice's first audiobook. Her American accent is well done. I liked her distinctive voices for each of the characters from the Americans, the sexy, deep voice of Abby and the young 9 year old Grace to the Aussies such as Sam and her BFF, Cath. I was also impressed with her distinctive narrative voice such that there is no confusion with the character's voices. Her acting (as opposed to just reading) was excellent and not overly done.
5 Stars for the book, 5 Stars for the narrator, Ruth Guice
I already wrote a Goodreads review for the ebook in Apr 2020, so I won't give an in-depth review. In short this book is about a famous American actress, Abigail Taylor who brings her 9 year old daughter, Grace to Melbourne, Australia. She hires a gifted teacher, Samantha (Sam) Markson to be her daughter's teacher and because of Abby's long hours to essentially be a live-in nanny for the few months of their visit. Sam not only teaches Grace academics but also takes her around Melbourne to museums and galleries. After listening to this book, I've decided that Sam is one of my favorite Lesfic characters. She's a tall, attractive Australian Mary Poppins/Maria Von Trapp all rolled into one, minus the singing.
I don't know where K.J. found the Australian voice actress, Ruth Guice but I hope she uses her again in her next audiobook. As far as I could tell this is Guice's first audiobook. Her American accent is well done. I liked her distinctive voices for each of the characters from the Americans, the sexy, deep voice of Abby and the young 9 year old Grace to the Aussies such as Sam and her BFF, Cath. I was also impressed with her distinctive narrative voice such that there is no confusion with the character's voices. Her acting (as opposed to just reading) was excellent and not overly done.
July 15, 2022
This book is super lovely.
Sam is just adorkable. I saw this list on Twitter of beloved Sams in sapphic fiction and I just started reading this one. I can only agree, this character is one of the most lovely ones. And I’m not just saying that because we share a name. We are mostly in Sam’s headspace and it’s a fun one to be in. The glimpses we get from Abby’s headspace and process are similarly fun and engaging. The child in this story, Grace, might be a bit too observant for her age, but it’s also a thing of kids nowadays (gahww this makes me sound like an old lady).
This romance is cute, the longing, the banter, the adorkable quality of all of it, it’s the things I live for.
Side note, Sam’s boss is Ignis’s Felicity.
Sam is just adorkable. I saw this list on Twitter of beloved Sams in sapphic fiction and I just started reading this one. I can only agree, this character is one of the most lovely ones. And I’m not just saying that because we share a name. We are mostly in Sam’s headspace and it’s a fun one to be in. The glimpses we get from Abby’s headspace and process are similarly fun and engaging. The child in this story, Grace, might be a bit too observant for her age, but it’s also a thing of kids nowadays (gahww this makes me sound like an old lady).
This romance is cute, the longing, the banter, the adorkable quality of all of it, it’s the things I live for.
Side note, Sam’s boss is Ignis’s Felicity.
September 15, 2019
I really really liked the writing and I thought the story was just wonderful, a feel-good romance which just made its way to your heart...put a smile on your face and a tear along the way. A nice setting with likeable MCs in Sam and Abby and supporting roles were just as likeable; Gracey-Grace, Tom and Cath. A delightful read for the weekend...for me at least 😊
4.25 🌟
4.25 🌟
September 7, 2019
4.5 stars. I loved reading this book, very nice characters who communicate well, nice supporting cast, not too much angst which I don’t like, well written and very good build up of the connection between the mains. Pace was slow but in a good way. If i have to describe this book in one word it would be cosy because it made me feel warm and connected to the characters. Not much sex, only one scene. I have immediately bought another book by KJ. I am curious whether I’ll like that as much as this one. Recommend.
September 9, 2019
I really really liked this story
KJ is a new author to me and after a Goodread friend recommended this (I think it was Laure) I said what the heck is a kU book. And I am so glad for that recommendation and that I listened to it. I think what drew me in was the character development. You fall in love with all the characters, not just the main but everyone...well except for Stacey. Is it bad I wished for a big dramatic fall out with her? Anyway, Sam was so much fun to read. Her humor was actually funny and she fit perfectly with Grace which you know will lead to some sad moments. Her interactions with Abby was great too and I liked how it wasnt a instalove, not really. The development, though in a short time was done so well that it seemed like the characters were together forever.
I really, really liked this story. Enough that if I have extra funds in my book allowance I may just buy it. Give it a read. It's a free kU read afterall
KJ is a new author to me and after a Goodread friend recommended this (I think it was Laure) I said what the heck is a kU book. And I am so glad for that recommendation and that I listened to it. I think what drew me in was the character development. You fall in love with all the characters, not just the main but everyone...well except for Stacey. Is it bad I wished for a big dramatic fall out with her? Anyway, Sam was so much fun to read. Her humor was actually funny and she fit perfectly with Grace which you know will lead to some sad moments. Her interactions with Abby was great too and I liked how it wasnt a instalove, not really. The development, though in a short time was done so well that it seemed like the characters were together forever.
I really, really liked this story. Enough that if I have extra funds in my book allowance I may just buy it. Give it a read. It's a free kU read afterall
October 1, 2019
Wow!
Wow, what an amazing story. The chemistry, the humor, the dialogues, the engrossing storyline and the characters, I enjoyed it all tremendously. Sam, Abby and Grace stole my heart. I put Coming Home high on my list of favourites. Highly recommended!
Wow, what an amazing story. The chemistry, the humor, the dialogues, the engrossing storyline and the characters, I enjoyed it all tremendously. Sam, Abby and Grace stole my heart. I put Coming Home high on my list of favourites. Highly recommended!
April 24, 2021
This is a wonderful story. I listened to the audiobook and loved it. Sam, Abigail and her daughter Grace are so comfortable together you just know they would make an amazing family. Sam may think she is ordinary but I think she is awesome. She is caring, funny and just adorable. Tom and Kath are great friends and support for Abby and Sam. The story had an unexpected twist that had me hanging not to mention crying a few times. The narrator gave Abigail the sexiest voice I thought I would melt. I highly recommend this book well done K.J.
August 16, 2020
This was a genuinely sweet love story. I hate overly sentimental and twee, but K.J. never went that route. I think in part it's because she's an Aussie. They are pretty down-to-earth people.
The narration by newby Ruth Guice was perfect for this novel. She had a great voice for Melbourne native schoolteacher Sam, a very sexy American accent for celebrity actress Abigail Taylor (holy wow!) and a very believeable voice for Abby's 9-year old daughter Grace. Well done, Ruth! I hope to hear more of you.
Quality writing, low angst, high on all the good stuff. Please check out the audio book!
Available on Scribd.
f/f
4.4 stars
The narration by newby Ruth Guice was perfect for this novel. She had a great voice for Melbourne native schoolteacher Sam, a very sexy American accent for celebrity actress Abigail Taylor (holy wow!) and a very believeable voice for Abby's 9-year old daughter Grace. Well done, Ruth! I hope to hear more of you.
Quality writing, low angst, high on all the good stuff. Please check out the audio book!
Available on Scribd.
f/f
4.4 stars
February 13, 2021
I'm so glad this is FINALLY out of Audible jail and available to the masses because damn, it's good. First and foremost, it's major strength is the story. For me it is an ideal romance and I absolutely fell in love with it when I read the paperback last year. Australian school teacher Samantha Markson is hired for three months to tutor and care for American movie star Abigail Taylor's child Grace while she's shooting a film in Melbourne. Because Abby's shooting schedule requires her to sometimes go in very early or stay very late, Sam moves in to Abby and Grace's apartment during the shoot, which gives her the opportunity to get to know Abby and her child on a more than superficial level. There is an immediate attraction between the two and while Sam sees herself as too "ordinary" to possibly be a love match for one of the biggest movie stars in the world, Abigail Taylor soon recognizes how truly extraordinary Sam really is.
Sam is likely one of my very favorite MCs in lesfic. She is kind, generous, has a fabulous sense of humor and is a great teacher. And she's hot. Good luck with ANYONE not falling in love with her. I loved that Abby was unaffected by the trappings of stardom, kind and approachable, and that she had a fierce, protective love for Grace. There are really strong supporting characters in addition to Grace, including Sam's best friend Cath, as well as Abby's personal assistant and friend Tom.
This was Australian narrator Ruth Guice's first audiobook and the only tell of that was that she speaks quite slowly outside of the dialogue. A voice actor, she captures the personalities beautifully. I loved Sam's voice with a dreamy Aussie accent and she does a great job with Abby's American one, using a very low and incredibly sexy tone for her. Guice has a wonderfully soothing voice and while it did take some time to adjust to her slower delivery, she did a terrific job for her first go-round. KJ was understandably frustrated with how long this sat with Audible before being released, especially with it being her first audiobook. She also said she and Guice learned as they went along since neither had worked on one before. It is my sincere hope that now that this has been widely released that it will sell well and KJ will be willing to do another. She's such a terrific writer. I think Guice would be a wonderful voice for KJ's books, and if she makes that slight pace adjustment, could turn into a favorite. I would love to hear her do The Art of Magic next! Fingers crossed.
Sam is likely one of my very favorite MCs in lesfic. She is kind, generous, has a fabulous sense of humor and is a great teacher. And she's hot. Good luck with ANYONE not falling in love with her. I loved that Abby was unaffected by the trappings of stardom, kind and approachable, and that she had a fierce, protective love for Grace. There are really strong supporting characters in addition to Grace, including Sam's best friend Cath, as well as Abby's personal assistant and friend Tom.
This was Australian narrator Ruth Guice's first audiobook and the only tell of that was that she speaks quite slowly outside of the dialogue. A voice actor, she captures the personalities beautifully. I loved Sam's voice with a dreamy Aussie accent and she does a great job with Abby's American one, using a very low and incredibly sexy tone for her. Guice has a wonderfully soothing voice and while it did take some time to adjust to her slower delivery, she did a terrific job for her first go-round. KJ was understandably frustrated with how long this sat with Audible before being released, especially with it being her first audiobook. She also said she and Guice learned as they went along since neither had worked on one before. It is my sincere hope that now that this has been widely released that it will sell well and KJ will be willing to do another. She's such a terrific writer. I think Guice would be a wonderful voice for KJ's books, and if she makes that slight pace adjustment, could turn into a favorite. I would love to hear her do The Art of Magic next! Fingers crossed.
February 3, 2021
This was an unexpectedly great read. We’re not sure what we expected – but surely not so much humour and sweetness.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
October 23, 2019
What a drama!!!
Sam is thrown into a situation teaching the daughter of famous actress Abigail Taylor when she is in Australia filming. Being Grace’s teacher, Sam is staying with her and Abigail, living in close proximity and trying not to lose her head as a fan. She is deeply attracted to Abigail but not sure if the feelings would be reciprocated – even though they have developed a friendship – until the innocence of Grace puts the idea in her head they could be something more. Sam and Abigail find themselves getting closer, but just as everything seems rosy, it’s all about to fall apart…and so the drama begins!
This was such an exciting story and I loved every moment of it! It was so clever, lulling me into a cute romance, only to explode with drama. The story was just beautiful in being an almost forbidden romance due to distance, life and circumstances, but in being an advocate for hope that anything is possible. The way the story just drew me in from the very beginning and kept me hooked with drama and exciting changes in the plot makes this a story to be enjoyed by all.
I want more from Abigail and Sam, I just need to know how they are doing now!
Sam and Abigail had such a realistic and relatable relationship, despite Abigail’s celebrity status. They just clicked and the way they were, not only together but with Grace was so perfect.
My favourite character has to be Grace though. So charismatic, and an insightful child as she sees her mother’s life differently. If it wasn’t for her, putting ideas about, and having a great relationship with Sam and her mother, there may never have been a Sam and Abigail, so thank you, Grace!
Such an epic romance, and a total must read!!!
Sam is thrown into a situation teaching the daughter of famous actress Abigail Taylor when she is in Australia filming. Being Grace’s teacher, Sam is staying with her and Abigail, living in close proximity and trying not to lose her head as a fan. She is deeply attracted to Abigail but not sure if the feelings would be reciprocated – even though they have developed a friendship – until the innocence of Grace puts the idea in her head they could be something more. Sam and Abigail find themselves getting closer, but just as everything seems rosy, it’s all about to fall apart…and so the drama begins!
This was such an exciting story and I loved every moment of it! It was so clever, lulling me into a cute romance, only to explode with drama. The story was just beautiful in being an almost forbidden romance due to distance, life and circumstances, but in being an advocate for hope that anything is possible. The way the story just drew me in from the very beginning and kept me hooked with drama and exciting changes in the plot makes this a story to be enjoyed by all.
I want more from Abigail and Sam, I just need to know how they are doing now!
Sam and Abigail had such a realistic and relatable relationship, despite Abigail’s celebrity status. They just clicked and the way they were, not only together but with Grace was so perfect.
My favourite character has to be Grace though. So charismatic, and an insightful child as she sees her mother’s life differently. If it wasn’t for her, putting ideas about, and having a great relationship with Sam and her mother, there may never have been a Sam and Abigail, so thank you, Grace!
Such an epic romance, and a total must read!!!
December 14, 2022
A sweet lesbian love story with likeable characters, lots of fluff and a fair amount of humor. The two MC's didn't really interact very much with each other and I failed to find the chemistry between them.
January 7, 2021
I love the narrator, also a first time for me listening to her; I looove the accent, Australian (?) Idk as nobody says “mate” and that’s my only clue to an Australian 😁
I will start with the secondary characters: Kat is for Sam what every funny and witty gay guy is for every girl (straight or not) in good movies - I loved her and their friendship, hilarious, honest, open, everything one could wish in a friendship. Every relationship where I can freely use swear words as a love language is my ideal type of friendship!
I didn’t know anything about “melbournians”, not even that Australians from Melbourne are called that, if that’s true KJ 🤨, as I never been to Australia myself nor have I met an Australian in person actually now that I think about it, but mate (to you all Australian out there), if you are half as funny as Sam and Kat, I sure need some of you as my future best friends.
About the author and the book in general: KJ is a new author to me and “Coming home” is the first book from her that I read. I love her writing style and humor, both are... slightly subtle and different, good different. It reminds me of London and Florence, both due to the cultural differences and also because of a slightly slowly rhythm in the flow of living despite busy work and lives of the MCs. This is a weird sentence, but it’s because this book is.. different. And because I am kind of weird, it’s ok, judge away, I love my weirdness 😁. This is turning into a tourism guide, so I should focus on the book itself, but the book was for me different (still good different 😁) from other books in this genre I have read / listened to until now. As mentioned above, the book also presents a very exciting and interesting subject to me personally: cultural psychology. Again, in a very funny way. When Sam meets “enormous guy 1 and 2” and asks them not to kill her... I loved that whole scene and I could definitely see it happening in real life between people from different cultures.
About the MCs: I have seen some other reviews where both the book and specifically the relationship between Abigail and Sam were criticized because it was supposedly at first, lacking and then evolving way too fast between the two women. I must say, I disagree completely with this assessment: first of all, the story is told from Sam’s POV as it also starts with her getting the gig as Grace’s tutor. So we don’t get to be inside Abby’s head. But at the same time, Abby is both quite touchy-feely with Sam from their first meeting and we are also told, Sam wonders if they still talk about “the pet rock” or... well, something else in their first conversation. So, subtle it’s true, but imo, we are shown Abby’s interest in Sam from the moment they meet too. They also directly flirt with each other when talking just the two of them from the beginning.
And also, it would be totally understandable that Abby won’t just jump all over Sam, she is busy and also super famous which explains why she has to get to know and trust a person before opening up, which all in all, it’s just sound advice for all of us, famous or not 😁.
I love Sam. She is so funny, even when she doesn’t know she is. Maybe a defense mechanism as Abby remarks the very first time they talk alone, but it makes Sam a positive and open person, which I really like. Aside from the fact that Sam likes people, which I definitely do NOT identify with 😁, I recognize myself in Sam: I too make important decisions after saying “fuck it!” 😎😁🤣
And Abby, well, she has been written exceptionally well for who she is supposed to be: she is this super famous person, sexy, beautiful, slightly guarded. But at the same time she shows Sam, she is “just like the rest of us”. Their chemistry is off the charts in my opinion. The way they look at each other when the other doesn’t notice, the small physical touches between them, the considerations they show for each other with small gifts / gestures and similar, their flirting through out every one of their conversations... even in front of Grace (i.e. the talk about the “page corners folderer”, which had me both in tears of laughter and slightly turned on 😁). The fact that their relationship evolves reaaalllyy slowly physically made the whole story much more exciting. For me everything was really sensual, erotic and slightly sexuality frustrating 😁. These are two people, falling in love, yet not knowing how their relationship would work and therefore not jumping into things as not to hurt each other. Plus there’s a kid they both have to and do consider.
This book was very.. zen for me. When I began listening to it, I thought I would find it annoying because both the narrator and the story itself was way too slow for me. I am not a very slow physically nor patient person, but I must say, both these things - the narrator and the story itself were just perfect 👌. Besides the zen factor, this book is one that has tugged at my own heart strings.. something I haven’t experienced in a while... It tore me apart and put me back together... It made me hear and feel the song “Hotel Sayre” from “The great Gatsby” as a background...
This ended up being quite a lengthy review, but this book has been... different, good different 😁😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2021
This is a sweet romance between celebrity actress Abby (who is very down to earth) and Sam the (pretty near perfect) temporary teacher and nanny to Abby's absolutely adorable daughter Grace. The chemistry and interactions between the two mains along with the relationship between Grace and Sam has you rooting for this family almost from the start of the book. Throw is some fabulous secondary characters both friends and co-workers, great banter, and you have a heartwarming story with low angst. Though there was one scene in the museum that had my heart in my throat and shallow breathing but it is HEA. Ruth Guice did an amazing job narrating and I hope I get to hear her on future KJ audiobooks as well as other authors.
November 24, 2019
Cute, fluffy, warm :)
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