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Sassy in the City #5
Halftime Husband
Running into a man once is an accident. Twice is a coincidence. Three times makes it fate... right?
Unless he is now your grumpy boss who holds the future of your fading dance career in his hands. And you hooked up with him when he was just a mysterious stranger rescuing you…
My life is a hot mess. I’m Dakota Tanner and I speak before I think, I spend before I earn, and I live totally in the moment. Which is why I’m down and out in need of a major life makeover. Cue the hot guy who has it all together and makes my toes curl in bed. Who then disappears before I wake up. When he reappears five months later as head coach of a pro football team he wants a secret romance (aka a no-one-can-ever-know bangfest) while I’m a nanny for his wild-child daughters.
I should say no. But he just might be my one true love… or my biggest mistake yet.
Unless he is now your grumpy boss who holds the future of your fading dance career in his hands. And you hooked up with him when he was just a mysterious stranger rescuing you…
My life is a hot mess. I’m Dakota Tanner and I speak before I think, I spend before I earn, and I live totally in the moment. Which is why I’m down and out in need of a major life makeover. Cue the hot guy who has it all together and makes my toes curl in bed. Who then disappears before I wake up. When he reappears five months later as head coach of a pro football team he wants a secret romance (aka a no-one-can-ever-know bangfest) while I’m a nanny for his wild-child daughters.
I should say no. But he just might be my one true love… or my biggest mistake yet.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2021
65 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
Erin McCarthy
216 books4,828 followersUSA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written over a hundred novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
December 9, 2021
3 Halftime/Fulltime Stars
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This is another part of the interconnected stand-alone Sassy In The City series by Erin McCarthy. We have two people who have those sparks flying, an intense surprise hook-up with the guy, and then gone in the AM.
Our gal is a free thinker which can cause her to be impulsive, not budget as she should, and leave her in a difficult position careerwise/lifewise.
Fast forward five months and look who is in a position to give her a job and save her bacon...Mr. Disappear In The Middle of the Night. He is in serious need of help with his kids and after him running into this woman he can't stop thinking about, offers her a nanny position.
Due to the chemistry between them, he also wants to have a Down Low, No One Must Know benefit relationship, and the question is can this work, and is that the way to handle these feelings.
These are the challenges for this couple figuring out how to commit and be willing to love.
Weekend Wife (Sassy In The City #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Five First Dates (Sassy In The City #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Forty Day Fiancé (Sassy In The City #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Who's the Boss? (Sassy In The City #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Halftime Husband (Sassy In The City #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This is another part of the interconnected stand-alone Sassy In The City series by Erin McCarthy. We have two people who have those sparks flying, an intense surprise hook-up with the guy, and then gone in the AM.
Our gal is a free thinker which can cause her to be impulsive, not budget as she should, and leave her in a difficult position careerwise/lifewise.
Fast forward five months and look who is in a position to give her a job and save her bacon...Mr. Disappear In The Middle of the Night. He is in serious need of help with his kids and after him running into this woman he can't stop thinking about, offers her a nanny position.
Due to the chemistry between them, he also wants to have a Down Low, No One Must Know benefit relationship, and the question is can this work, and is that the way to handle these feelings.
These are the challenges for this couple figuring out how to commit and be willing to love.
Weekend Wife (Sassy In The City #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Five First Dates (Sassy In The City #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Forty Day Fiancé (Sassy In The City #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Who's the Boss? (Sassy In The City #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Halftime Husband (Sassy In The City #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 18, 2021
Amazon / Amazon Worldwide / Apple Books / Nook
A chance meeting that continues to happen must be a sign. So when her rescuer, Brandon, offers her a job as the nanny to his two hard to deal with children, she knows she has to say yes. Even if he wants to carry on a secret relationship with her. Even if she's afraid her heart will get broken because her luck with men is terrible.
Dakota and Brandon are adorable together. And sweet, and hot, and I loved her relationship with Brandon's precocious daughters. A fun, entertaining, and chemistry-filled rom-com.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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February 16, 2021
Erin McCarthy hooked me with Weekend Wife, sucked me deeper into the friendship group with Five First Dates, had me desperate for more of the characters after Forty Day Fiancé, kept me on my toes with Who’s the Boss? – all of which left me eager to dive into Halftime Husband. As the fifth book in the Sassy in the City series, it’s a wonderful read, but it’s also one that works perfectly fine as a standalone story.
Halftime Husband hooked me right away, and I was happy to devour the story in a single sitting. I’ll be honest and say I was a wee bit tentative early in the book, as things happened a bit quicker than I would have liked, but it was not enough to take away from the story. More and more details were added, ensuring I could not put it down. I fell deeper for the characters with each new detail, was hooked on the story as it unfolded, and wore a wide smile on my face as things played out. Filled with plenty of amusing moments, this is a great addition to the series.
Without a doubt, fans of the prior books in the series need to give this one a read. It’s another addictive read, one that opens plenty of possibilities for the author’s next series. I cannot wait for more!
Halftime Husband hooked me right away, and I was happy to devour the story in a single sitting. I’ll be honest and say I was a wee bit tentative early in the book, as things happened a bit quicker than I would have liked, but it was not enough to take away from the story. More and more details were added, ensuring I could not put it down. I fell deeper for the characters with each new detail, was hooked on the story as it unfolded, and wore a wide smile on my face as things played out. Filled with plenty of amusing moments, this is a great addition to the series.
Without a doubt, fans of the prior books in the series need to give this one a read. It’s another addictive read, one that opens plenty of possibilities for the author’s next series. I cannot wait for more!
February 12, 2021
4 Star Review Halftime Husband by Erin McCarthy
I have read a few books by Erin McCarthy and what I have read I have found to be well written and entertaining. Although not a long read, Ms. McCarthy drew me in to the story she wove about Dakota and Brandon.
Fate works in mysterious ways and when Dakota and Brandon’s paths cross several times, it seems that fate has plans for these two. Brandon, a footfall coach is also a single dad to two daughters who are a challenge to handle.
Dakota is between jobs and when she becomes his daughters’ nanny, the sparks fly between them. The relationship that Dakota develops with the girls was heart warming to read about.
What will happen when the attraction between them reaches breaking point? Will they dare cross the line ?
I have read a few books by Erin McCarthy and what I have read I have found to be well written and entertaining. Although not a long read, Ms. McCarthy drew me in to the story she wove about Dakota and Brandon.
Fate works in mysterious ways and when Dakota and Brandon’s paths cross several times, it seems that fate has plans for these two. Brandon, a footfall coach is also a single dad to two daughters who are a challenge to handle.
Dakota is between jobs and when she becomes his daughters’ nanny, the sparks fly between them. The relationship that Dakota develops with the girls was heart warming to read about.
What will happen when the attraction between them reaches breaking point? Will they dare cross the line ?
February 13, 2021
I just want to start by saying this is the first book I’ve read from this author and I will absolutely be reading more of her books in the future.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Dakota and Brandon’s story is incredible. The whole thing had me hooked from the get go and I found myself not able to put it down, I devoured the book within hours, I’m in awe, I just loved them so much.
Dakota is down on luck with men. After a surprise wedding has her running she bumps into an unexpected distraction, a distraction she can’t help but think about from time to time.
Brandon is managing life, his work and his rowdy girls are the only things that matter except the woman who creeps into his mind every now and again, the woman he rescued at a party.
What neither expect is a meeting in a bar that has an unexpected turn out. With some accidental spillage and crashing into ones back their second meeting is about to go off.
I won’t go into much detail about the storyline but I will say Erin did an incredible job bringing these characters and their story to life. It has been an absolute joy to read this book and I can’t wait to get more from other characters.
Half-time Husband is a laugh out loud, romcom that’ll have you addicted within minutes. Beautiful, funny and a MUST read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Dakota and Brandon’s story is incredible. The whole thing had me hooked from the get go and I found myself not able to put it down, I devoured the book within hours, I’m in awe, I just loved them so much.
Dakota is down on luck with men. After a surprise wedding has her running she bumps into an unexpected distraction, a distraction she can’t help but think about from time to time.
Brandon is managing life, his work and his rowdy girls are the only things that matter except the woman who creeps into his mind every now and again, the woman he rescued at a party.
What neither expect is a meeting in a bar that has an unexpected turn out. With some accidental spillage and crashing into ones back their second meeting is about to go off.
I won’t go into much detail about the storyline but I will say Erin did an incredible job bringing these characters and their story to life. It has been an absolute joy to read this book and I can’t wait to get more from other characters.
Half-time Husband is a laugh out loud, romcom that’ll have you addicted within minutes. Beautiful, funny and a MUST read.
February 15, 2021
If you are looking for something to laugh out loud and swoon, then you have to read this one. Firstly, I loved Dakota, she's one sassy, goofy, and carefree lady. While Brandon is one hot single dad to three daughters. Their story is pretty easy to read and makes you can't stop smiling. You will not get boring with their antics, even Brandon's daughters. And I loved how Dakota just fits right in with Brandon's family. It couldn't get any more fun and heartwarming than this. This is for sure my new favourite from Erin.
February 21, 2021
3.5 stars!
This was cute and sexy, I enjoyed it a lot. Loved Dakota's free spirit and spontaneity, as well as outspoken attitude. Her chemistry with Brandon was 🔥🔥🔥
Also, it's always one of my favourite pastimes, reading about two idiots in love who both say they want something casual and then clam up about their emerging feelings because That Makes Sense xD
This was cute and sexy, I enjoyed it a lot. Loved Dakota's free spirit and spontaneity, as well as outspoken attitude. Her chemistry with Brandon was 🔥🔥🔥
Also, it's always one of my favourite pastimes, reading about two idiots in love who both say they want something casual and then clam up about their emerging feelings because That Makes Sense xD
February 15, 2021
After reading the last few books by Erin McCarthy, I knew I wanted to read this new book by her too. Yes, these books are standalones. But the characters are all friends so we get to read little bits about the previous characters too. And I just love that. Plus.. Isn’t this cover fun?!
In ‘Halftime Husband’ dancer Dakota Tanner. Dakota’s life slowly seems to fall apart. Her dancing career seems to be on it’s end, she isn’t able to pay the rent of her New York apartment, and all her girlfriends are in serious relationships. But when she accidentally bumps into the handsome Brendan McNamara three times, it simple seems fate. But their lives are totally different.
Like with all Erin McCarthy’s books I read so far, ‘Halftime Husband’ was a very entertaining read I enjoyed from start to finish. Although this book seems shorter to me than the previous ones (I have no clue if that’s true?!) I definitely enjoyed it. Dakota and Brendan’s characters are both very fun to get to know. Yes, they are totally different people.. and their lives are completely different, but somehow they seem to work.
The best part about this book to me was definitely the way they just seem meant to be. They keep meeting each other at random places and it was just so charming. They have a chemistry between them that’s flying of the pages and although their romance isn’t a lowborn one at all. I loved them, and could totally believe their story to be true.
Dakota’s character was definitely my favorite. Simple because she was so unlike me. I loved how she kept going, and stayed strong even though her life was about to fall apart. And the fact that she started working as a nanny, simple because she had to get a job, was something I really admired.
Overall, ‘Halftime Husband’ was a very entertaining and fun read I loved.
In ‘Halftime Husband’ dancer Dakota Tanner. Dakota’s life slowly seems to fall apart. Her dancing career seems to be on it’s end, she isn’t able to pay the rent of her New York apartment, and all her girlfriends are in serious relationships. But when she accidentally bumps into the handsome Brendan McNamara three times, it simple seems fate. But their lives are totally different.
Like with all Erin McCarthy’s books I read so far, ‘Halftime Husband’ was a very entertaining read I enjoyed from start to finish. Although this book seems shorter to me than the previous ones (I have no clue if that’s true?!) I definitely enjoyed it. Dakota and Brendan’s characters are both very fun to get to know. Yes, they are totally different people.. and their lives are completely different, but somehow they seem to work.
The best part about this book to me was definitely the way they just seem meant to be. They keep meeting each other at random places and it was just so charming. They have a chemistry between them that’s flying of the pages and although their romance isn’t a lowborn one at all. I loved them, and could totally believe their story to be true.
Dakota’s character was definitely my favorite. Simple because she was so unlike me. I loved how she kept going, and stayed strong even though her life was about to fall apart. And the fact that she started working as a nanny, simple because she had to get a job, was something I really admired.
Overall, ‘Halftime Husband’ was a very entertaining and fun read I loved.
February 15, 2021
First, I loved this book! I think I can sum it up with one word: Timing. To me, that’s what it is all about. It’s pretty funny how folks can be very smart but pretty clueless about putting themselves out there. However, there wouldn’t be a story if these two didn’t sometimes wander aimlessly in their own heads. They are SO cute! And so are the children.
Dakota and Brandon have something MUCH more than a meet-cute happening but I’ll just say they have a timing issue, meet up again, and again, and again. My heart broke for both of these characters as they each have personal baggage, for lack of a better term, that they need to get past before they could actually be happy with themselves, their lives and each other.
It was a really funny book. There were times I laughed so hard I started coughing. There were very touching parts, too, and I won’t forget to tell you about the parts where I wanted to boo at some of the secondary characters. And Brandon’s daughters…Willow and Poppy… They were adorable BUT they were also devious and smart and scared about their place on this earth. But their dad was always there for them. And eventually, so was Dakota.
My favorite line about the girls was from Brandon (and the line that preceded it was hilarious but I can’t include it here): “I had one daughter who desperately wanted to please everyone, fit in, and be popular, and another who was either the next Marie Curie or a budding serial killer.” When you read it, I promise you will snort-laff.
It’s not a heavy storyline so relax and enjoy. It’s smart, it’s smexy, it’s funny, and it really made my day.
Dakota and Brandon have something MUCH more than a meet-cute happening but I’ll just say they have a timing issue, meet up again, and again, and again. My heart broke for both of these characters as they each have personal baggage, for lack of a better term, that they need to get past before they could actually be happy with themselves, their lives and each other.
It was a really funny book. There were times I laughed so hard I started coughing. There were very touching parts, too, and I won’t forget to tell you about the parts where I wanted to boo at some of the secondary characters. And Brandon’s daughters…Willow and Poppy… They were adorable BUT they were also devious and smart and scared about their place on this earth. But their dad was always there for them. And eventually, so was Dakota.
My favorite line about the girls was from Brandon (and the line that preceded it was hilarious but I can’t include it here): “I had one daughter who desperately wanted to please everyone, fit in, and be popular, and another who was either the next Marie Curie or a budding serial killer.” When you read it, I promise you will snort-laff.
It’s not a heavy storyline so relax and enjoy. It’s smart, it’s smexy, it’s funny, and it really made my day.
February 15, 2021
I loved this book! The characters, the story, the chemistry, were all perfect.
Since Dakotas last relationship just ended, she isn’t looking for love, she’s not not looking either, if it happens it happens but she’s not going out of her way to find a man. Brandon comes to Dakotas rescue the night she splits from her ex and even though they’re strangers, the chemistry is there and hard to ignore. After spending an innocent evening together, Dakota and Brandon go their separate ways with no intention of meeting again. Months lately they unexpectedly meet again and they fall straight back into their easy banter and the chemistry is still there, leading to them spending the night together. Brandon has a busy life. Between his career and looking after his two girls, he hasn’t got time for a relationship but he’s also not quite ready to walk away from Dakota. Leaving his number, he’s hoping him and Dakota can have a repeat of their night but to his disappointment she doesn’t call. Six months later they meet again (its fate!) and Brandon is determined to find a solution to all his problems. But is he creating more problems by trying to have his cake and eat it?
I love this authors work. Her stories always hook me from the start and Halftime husband wasn’t any different. It’s hard not to like Dakota, Brandon and the girls when they’re all so relatable. This is a great read. It’s fun, flirty, sexy and sweet. Everything I’ve come to expect from Ms McCarthy.
Since Dakotas last relationship just ended, she isn’t looking for love, she’s not not looking either, if it happens it happens but she’s not going out of her way to find a man. Brandon comes to Dakotas rescue the night she splits from her ex and even though they’re strangers, the chemistry is there and hard to ignore. After spending an innocent evening together, Dakota and Brandon go their separate ways with no intention of meeting again. Months lately they unexpectedly meet again and they fall straight back into their easy banter and the chemistry is still there, leading to them spending the night together. Brandon has a busy life. Between his career and looking after his two girls, he hasn’t got time for a relationship but he’s also not quite ready to walk away from Dakota. Leaving his number, he’s hoping him and Dakota can have a repeat of their night but to his disappointment she doesn’t call. Six months later they meet again (its fate!) and Brandon is determined to find a solution to all his problems. But is he creating more problems by trying to have his cake and eat it?
I love this authors work. Her stories always hook me from the start and Halftime husband wasn’t any different. It’s hard not to like Dakota, Brandon and the girls when they’re all so relatable. This is a great read. It’s fun, flirty, sexy and sweet. Everything I’ve come to expect from Ms McCarthy.
February 13, 2021
Erin McCarthy is one of my favourite authors so Halftime Husband was always going to be on my radar and like all her books before, I wasn’t disappointed in fact this entertaining read captivated me from the first page and didn’t let me go til I had read the final line.
Dakota and Brandon paths keep crossing but up until now the timing was never right. It seems fate has finally put these two in a position to see where life takes them.
Dakota is off men and between jobs when she takes the position of nanny to Brandon’s girls, a single dad who is trying to cope with his daughters and a job needs all the help he can get and that’s where Dakota comes in but what about the attraction and the feelings this couple have for each other....
Will Dakota and Brandon risk all by the crossing the line....guess you need to read the book to find out.
I adored Dakota and I loved the relationship she develops with the girls, I fell hard and fast for Brandon and I found myself swooning and sighing throughout this entertaining read. The chemistry is sizzling, the banter witty and the story is beautifully written. Great job Ms McCarthy
Dakota and Brandon paths keep crossing but up until now the timing was never right. It seems fate has finally put these two in a position to see where life takes them.
Dakota is off men and between jobs when she takes the position of nanny to Brandon’s girls, a single dad who is trying to cope with his daughters and a job needs all the help he can get and that’s where Dakota comes in but what about the attraction and the feelings this couple have for each other....
Will Dakota and Brandon risk all by the crossing the line....guess you need to read the book to find out.
I adored Dakota and I loved the relationship she develops with the girls, I fell hard and fast for Brandon and I found myself swooning and sighing throughout this entertaining read. The chemistry is sizzling, the banter witty and the story is beautifully written. Great job Ms McCarthy
February 16, 2021
Dakota’s career as a dancer isn’t going as she planned, and her romantic life isn’t faring any better. The first time she met Brandon he acted as her Prince Charming, the second time they met the chemistry exploded and the third time they met was in a professional capacity and before she knew it she was his employee.
Brandon is a football coach with two spirited daughters who needs a nanny while this wasn’t the job she was looking for it is the job she needs. Neither of them is looking for a relationship so as long as they both understand the rules crossing lines shouldn’t be a problem, right?
It was easy to relate to what both Dakota and Brandon were feeling when it came to life and love. Even though they had a few challenges along the way it was great to see Dakota and Brandon come together not only as a couple but as a family as well.
February 17, 2021
Received an ARC for an honest review.
THAT WAS SO FUN! I really enjoyed Dakota and Brandon's story - their little meet cutes and the relationship that they built, while trying to pretend it wasn't a relationship. Everything about this story just spoke to me. The love scenes were hot, yes, but the characters were so real that I didn't want the book to end. I wanted to keep going and see how they settled in. Always the sign of a good writer, right, the audience wants more?
I do wish that there had been a little more closure with Brandon's ex, but I appreciate that this story came full circle. And these girls are the cutest. For two preteens who were going through nannies like underwear, they sure changed their tune once Dakota got there.
I can't wait to read the next one...especially after that little teaser introduction to the main couple.
THAT WAS SO FUN! I really enjoyed Dakota and Brandon's story - their little meet cutes and the relationship that they built, while trying to pretend it wasn't a relationship. Everything about this story just spoke to me. The love scenes were hot, yes, but the characters were so real that I didn't want the book to end. I wanted to keep going and see how they settled in. Always the sign of a good writer, right, the audience wants more?
I do wish that there had been a little more closure with Brandon's ex, but I appreciate that this story came full circle. And these girls are the cutest. For two preteens who were going through nannies like underwear, they sure changed their tune once Dakota got there.
I can't wait to read the next one...especially after that little teaser introduction to the main couple.
February 17, 2021
Perfect Beach Read
Okay, so I’m actually sitting in the Arizona desert, but I did binge read this book in less than 24 hours the way most people seem to enjoy bingeing on Netflix (a trend I will probably never understand).
It’s a light story that is not taxing to read. I actually enjoyed reading about a truly nice guy instead of a bad boy and a fun lady who’s happy to be herself. I liked that there was a sports aspect, without having to deep dive into the sport.
Just an enjoyable read, as I’ve come to expect from Erin.
Okay, so I’m actually sitting in the Arizona desert, but I did binge read this book in less than 24 hours the way most people seem to enjoy bingeing on Netflix (a trend I will probably never understand).
It’s a light story that is not taxing to read. I actually enjoyed reading about a truly nice guy instead of a bad boy and a fun lady who’s happy to be herself. I liked that there was a sports aspect, without having to deep dive into the sport.
Just an enjoyable read, as I’ve come to expect from Erin.
February 12, 2021
A fun and sexy read. Full review to come.
Holiday Husband is the prequel to Halftime Husband. It's not necessary to read it first but I would have started with the prequel if I had known about it.
Holiday Husband is the prequel to Halftime Husband. It's not necessary to read it first but I would have started with the prequel if I had known about it.
April 13, 2022
A chance meeting…Dakota Tanner and football coach Brandon McNamara had a very unique fight or flight introduction.
Thirty-nine to her twenty-eight. They met during a wedding surprise sprint in Holiday Husband.
The night she escaped from holy matrimony with the help of an handsome stranger in a suit. Meeting Brandon was serendipitous, as her then-boyfriend Dante, blindsided her with a surprise wedding from which she narrowly escaped.
Colliding with Brandon in the lift during Dante’s pursuit, he whisks her away, escaping by carriage, followed by ice-skating, coffee and a kiss under a mistletoe. It all seemed wildly romantic in the moment.
They hadn’t exchanged numbers.
Later, after the mistletoe had settled and she had spent New Year’s Eve very much single, she had thought given they’re in a city as crowded as New York, there was little or no opportunity to run into carriage rescue guy again. It was nothing more than a memory.
After Dante, sprung the surprise wedding in December she’s been happily living the life of a single woman. Two months later on Valentine’s Day…her best friend Elijah and herself are attending a charity benefit on Valentine’s Day. Sliding down a banister, she literally collides into Brandon and his dirty martini.
Overdressed and making an entrance, she lifts the bottom of my dress with one hand, gripping the banister with the other, preparing to make a grand entrance. Hopping onto the banister, settling into a stable position.
“What are you doing?” Elijah’s voice rose in alarm. “Dakota, no, please. That is both tacky as hell and dangerous.”
“I like how tacky was your first thought and dangerous was your second.”
After a night spent together, reluctant to leave her the next morning, knowing a disgruntled nanny, a belligerent twelve-year-old, and an eight-year-old fond of science experiments involving glue awaits him at home.
Brandon leads a busy life. He has one daughter who desperately wants to please everyone, fit in, and be popular, and another who was either the next Marie Curie or a budding serial killer.
Between his career and his two girls he doesn’t have the time for a relationship but he’s also not yet ready to walk away, so he writes down an illegible telephone number hoping, but never hearing from her. This miscommunication keeps them apart, she tried different numbers convinced he gave her a fake.
Six months elapse, as a struggling dancer she hasn’t gotten a job in months and her bank account is depleted; she’s two weeks shy of being homeless. His daughters and their sixth nanny advance upon him, the nanny quitting and the girls shrewdly voice that he should hire Dakota as their new nanny as she’s about to be evicted.
Neither are in search of a relationship but fate has other plans in store for them, as Brandon turns out to be the new coach of the local NFL team and Dakota is rehired as a replacement for the alternate cheerleader. Desperate for a job she accepts a job as a nanny for Brandon's two daughters Willow and Poppy.
Amidst the rumours and speculation, they keep their secret relationship hidden almost to the very end, with relatively little talk or no interjection of romance.
Dakota is best friends with the women in the previous books, a professional dancer, working in music videos and as a previous NFL pro-cheerleader.
Brandon is not looking for anything more than just a fun night between the sheets. He has full custody of his two daughters Poppy twelve and Willow eight. His ex-wife lives in Florida and is in rehab, again. Her moods are erratic and she has substance abuse problems. The girls haven’t seen her in six months. She contested the divorce and custody, even though there was no way she was going to be granted either.
Their first encounter they left their fate to happenstance, not exchanging numbers. The second time it was a fluke, the third time’s a charm…conflicted by circumstances, their wants clashing with their desires.
Dakota and Brandon's paths keep intersecting… with them rescuing one another. What does one do when a temporary remedy leads to a part-time romance?
“You don’t always get what you want, but sometimes instead you get exactly what you need.”
Dakota needs a job and Brandon’s daughters needs a replacement nanny after they’ve frightened off the latest.
He wants to know what they’re doing. They spend all their time together. They act married.
Never ask a question you might not like the answer to.
She hadn’t expected a marriage proposal, but his adverse reaction had hurt her feelings.
He was right.
Offered a job, Brandon encourages her to accept it.
Showing up outside her flat, he is in a suit with a horse and carriage, taking a leap of faith.
“Happy anniversary, Dakota Tanner.”
“I’m here to right a wrong. I should have never let you leave without at least telling you how I felt.”
“I love you. I think I’ve loved you from the moment you slammed into me.”
“Which time?” I asked, breathless.
“If not the first time, definitely the second night. By the time I left here, at five in the morning, I knew I would never be the same. I love you. I know I come with a complicated life and I can’t promise it will be easy, but I’ve let my chance slip through my fingers three times now and that’s three too many. I’m here to offer you a ride.”
“What kind of ride?” I looked at the carriage, but I had a feeling he meant more than just a trot down the block.
“One where every day is an adventure. I want a ride filled with you, laughter and great sex, and where we create a family together, with my girls and any future children you might want. You are my love story, Dakota, and I don’t want to waste any more time. I want to start writing it now. Today. Will you marry me?”
I haven’t read the other books in the series other than the prequel Holiday Husband.
Thirty-nine to her twenty-eight. They met during a wedding surprise sprint in Holiday Husband.
The night she escaped from holy matrimony with the help of an handsome stranger in a suit. Meeting Brandon was serendipitous, as her then-boyfriend Dante, blindsided her with a surprise wedding from which she narrowly escaped.
Colliding with Brandon in the lift during Dante’s pursuit, he whisks her away, escaping by carriage, followed by ice-skating, coffee and a kiss under a mistletoe. It all seemed wildly romantic in the moment.
They hadn’t exchanged numbers.
Later, after the mistletoe had settled and she had spent New Year’s Eve very much single, she had thought given they’re in a city as crowded as New York, there was little or no opportunity to run into carriage rescue guy again. It was nothing more than a memory.
After Dante, sprung the surprise wedding in December she’s been happily living the life of a single woman. Two months later on Valentine’s Day…her best friend Elijah and herself are attending a charity benefit on Valentine’s Day. Sliding down a banister, she literally collides into Brandon and his dirty martini.
Overdressed and making an entrance, she lifts the bottom of my dress with one hand, gripping the banister with the other, preparing to make a grand entrance. Hopping onto the banister, settling into a stable position.
“What are you doing?” Elijah’s voice rose in alarm. “Dakota, no, please. That is both tacky as hell and dangerous.”
“I like how tacky was your first thought and dangerous was your second.”
After a night spent together, reluctant to leave her the next morning, knowing a disgruntled nanny, a belligerent twelve-year-old, and an eight-year-old fond of science experiments involving glue awaits him at home.
Brandon leads a busy life. He has one daughter who desperately wants to please everyone, fit in, and be popular, and another who was either the next Marie Curie or a budding serial killer.
Between his career and his two girls he doesn’t have the time for a relationship but he’s also not yet ready to walk away, so he writes down an illegible telephone number hoping, but never hearing from her. This miscommunication keeps them apart, she tried different numbers convinced he gave her a fake.
Six months elapse, as a struggling dancer she hasn’t gotten a job in months and her bank account is depleted; she’s two weeks shy of being homeless. His daughters and their sixth nanny advance upon him, the nanny quitting and the girls shrewdly voice that he should hire Dakota as their new nanny as she’s about to be evicted.
Neither are in search of a relationship but fate has other plans in store for them, as Brandon turns out to be the new coach of the local NFL team and Dakota is rehired as a replacement for the alternate cheerleader. Desperate for a job she accepts a job as a nanny for Brandon's two daughters Willow and Poppy.
Amidst the rumours and speculation, they keep their secret relationship hidden almost to the very end, with relatively little talk or no interjection of romance.
Dakota is best friends with the women in the previous books, a professional dancer, working in music videos and as a previous NFL pro-cheerleader.
Brandon is not looking for anything more than just a fun night between the sheets. He has full custody of his two daughters Poppy twelve and Willow eight. His ex-wife lives in Florida and is in rehab, again. Her moods are erratic and she has substance abuse problems. The girls haven’t seen her in six months. She contested the divorce and custody, even though there was no way she was going to be granted either.
Their first encounter they left their fate to happenstance, not exchanging numbers. The second time it was a fluke, the third time’s a charm…conflicted by circumstances, their wants clashing with their desires.
Dakota and Brandon's paths keep intersecting… with them rescuing one another. What does one do when a temporary remedy leads to a part-time romance?
“You don’t always get what you want, but sometimes instead you get exactly what you need.”
Dakota needs a job and Brandon’s daughters needs a replacement nanny after they’ve frightened off the latest.
He wants to know what they’re doing. They spend all their time together. They act married.
Never ask a question you might not like the answer to.
She hadn’t expected a marriage proposal, but his adverse reaction had hurt her feelings.
He was right.
Offered a job, Brandon encourages her to accept it.
Showing up outside her flat, he is in a suit with a horse and carriage, taking a leap of faith.
“Happy anniversary, Dakota Tanner.”
“I’m here to right a wrong. I should have never let you leave without at least telling you how I felt.”
“I love you. I think I’ve loved you from the moment you slammed into me.”
“Which time?” I asked, breathless.
“If not the first time, definitely the second night. By the time I left here, at five in the morning, I knew I would never be the same. I love you. I know I come with a complicated life and I can’t promise it will be easy, but I’ve let my chance slip through my fingers three times now and that’s three too many. I’m here to offer you a ride.”
“What kind of ride?” I looked at the carriage, but I had a feeling he meant more than just a trot down the block.
“One where every day is an adventure. I want a ride filled with you, laughter and great sex, and where we create a family together, with my girls and any future children you might want. You are my love story, Dakota, and I don’t want to waste any more time. I want to start writing it now. Today. Will you marry me?”
I haven’t read the other books in the series other than the prequel Holiday Husband.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2021
3.25 stars. Halftime Husband is a standalone book set in the same world as Forty Day Fiance and Who's the Boss?, both books I really enjoyed. While I did enjoy this book, I didn't quite find it as an enjoyable as those previous books.
This book is Dakota and Brandon's story. Dakota is best friends with the women in the previous books. She is a professional dancer, working in music videos and as a previous NFL pro-cheerleader. She meets single dad Brandon by chance when her then-boyfriend plans a surprise wedding that she runs away from in terror. Brandon is a stranger she meets on the street who helps her escape. They have a moment, sharing a carriage ride and a kiss, but they part, not expecting to see each other again. Several months later, they meet again at a New Years Eve party. They have a connection and share a wild, hot night together. Neither of them really want a relationship, but they do want to see each other again. However, a miscommunication leads tmen to part for months. But fate has other plans, when Brandon turns out to be the new coach of the local NFL team and Dakota gets a job as a fill-in cheerleader. She is desperate for a job and about to be evicted. So desperate that she accepts a job as a nanny for Brandon's two daughters on the spur of the moment. Of course, lines get blurred as now they are living together. She and Brandon still want to hookup, but neither of them feel like they can fit a relationship into their lives. Everything gets messy and lines are crossed. Will Brandon and Dakota find love between them in these unusual circumstances?
I did like this story. However, I did feel like this book lacked the charm and chemistry that I felt in the other books I have read by Ms. McCarthy. I did feel like Dakota and Brandon were physically hot for each other, but I never felt love growing between them. Almost to the very end, they hid their relationship and acting like secret friends with benefits, with very little talk of romantic feelings. I didn't feel like they tried very hard to be together or opened up to each other very much. I had a hard time loving Dakota's character as well. She just didn't feel very responsible and she treated Brandon's daughters more like buddies. But the book had some pluses. The story was pretty fun and an easy read. Brandon's daughters were cute. There were some enjoyable moments.
Overall, I did like the book, but it wasn't my favorite by this author. However, I still enjoy the books set in this world and I look forward to more from her in the future.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
This book is Dakota and Brandon's story. Dakota is best friends with the women in the previous books. She is a professional dancer, working in music videos and as a previous NFL pro-cheerleader. She meets single dad Brandon by chance when her then-boyfriend plans a surprise wedding that she runs away from in terror. Brandon is a stranger she meets on the street who helps her escape. They have a moment, sharing a carriage ride and a kiss, but they part, not expecting to see each other again. Several months later, they meet again at a New Years Eve party. They have a connection and share a wild, hot night together. Neither of them really want a relationship, but they do want to see each other again. However, a miscommunication leads tmen to part for months. But fate has other plans, when Brandon turns out to be the new coach of the local NFL team and Dakota gets a job as a fill-in cheerleader. She is desperate for a job and about to be evicted. So desperate that she accepts a job as a nanny for Brandon's two daughters on the spur of the moment. Of course, lines get blurred as now they are living together. She and Brandon still want to hookup, but neither of them feel like they can fit a relationship into their lives. Everything gets messy and lines are crossed. Will Brandon and Dakota find love between them in these unusual circumstances?
I did like this story. However, I did feel like this book lacked the charm and chemistry that I felt in the other books I have read by Ms. McCarthy. I did feel like Dakota and Brandon were physically hot for each other, but I never felt love growing between them. Almost to the very end, they hid their relationship and acting like secret friends with benefits, with very little talk of romantic feelings. I didn't feel like they tried very hard to be together or opened up to each other very much. I had a hard time loving Dakota's character as well. She just didn't feel very responsible and she treated Brandon's daughters more like buddies. But the book had some pluses. The story was pretty fun and an easy read. Brandon's daughters were cute. There were some enjoyable moments.
Overall, I did like the book, but it wasn't my favorite by this author. However, I still enjoy the books set in this world and I look forward to more from her in the future.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
February 12, 2021
Dakota and Brandon ran into each other (literally) twice in a row, and each time thought they’d never see each other again. However, third time is the charm for this couple as another encounter leads to Dakota nannying for Brandon’s two daughters. This is a stroke of luck for Dakota and Brandon, and they’re able to carry on a tryst for quite some time... but as their self-imposed deadline creeps closer, will either of them admit to wanting more?
This book was a cute and quick read! Dakota and Brandon’s relationship is almost fairytale like from their first meeting to second chance encounter - and then it gets hot. However, with the addition of Brandon’s kids and Dakota’s role as nanny, there is still story happening around the two lovers. Speaking of the kids, I really enjoyed the girls and their characters - especially Poppy the mad scientist, who is just so funny. Erin McCarthy portrays these young kids pretty accurately, and honestly makes me kind of miss reading about kids in books!
I will say that while reading, the first half of the book felt very fast-paced to me, like the set up lasts a little too long and then suddenly everything is happening in rapid succession. The story also gets a little confusing sometimes in terms of which perspective we’re in - it switches between character POVs with no indicators except context, so sometimes I would think I was still reading one character and all of the sudden it would say something to reveal it was the other character.
That being said, I devoured this story. The characters are great, the plot is clever, and Dakota and Brandon together are enticing.
Dakota especially is really fun; she is an independent woman who gives it her all and tries her best. She’s unapologetically authentic and true to herself. To come across a character so wholly and graciously accepting of their own flaws is pretty unique, but Erin McCarthy writes Dakota so well that it’s not a “quirk,” it’s just a fact. I enjoyed her reactions, quips, and sometimes brutal honestly as she dealt with everything head on. I definitely recommend this one to anyone looking for an easy read and who loves workplace romance.
This book was a cute and quick read! Dakota and Brandon’s relationship is almost fairytale like from their first meeting to second chance encounter - and then it gets hot. However, with the addition of Brandon’s kids and Dakota’s role as nanny, there is still story happening around the two lovers. Speaking of the kids, I really enjoyed the girls and their characters - especially Poppy the mad scientist, who is just so funny. Erin McCarthy portrays these young kids pretty accurately, and honestly makes me kind of miss reading about kids in books!
I will say that while reading, the first half of the book felt very fast-paced to me, like the set up lasts a little too long and then suddenly everything is happening in rapid succession. The story also gets a little confusing sometimes in terms of which perspective we’re in - it switches between character POVs with no indicators except context, so sometimes I would think I was still reading one character and all of the sudden it would say something to reveal it was the other character.
That being said, I devoured this story. The characters are great, the plot is clever, and Dakota and Brandon together are enticing.
Dakota especially is really fun; she is an independent woman who gives it her all and tries her best. She’s unapologetically authentic and true to herself. To come across a character so wholly and graciously accepting of their own flaws is pretty unique, but Erin McCarthy writes Dakota so well that it’s not a “quirk,” it’s just a fact. I enjoyed her reactions, quips, and sometimes brutal honestly as she dealt with everything head on. I definitely recommend this one to anyone looking for an easy read and who loves workplace romance.
February 14, 2021
I totally enjoyed Dakota and Brandon in Halftime Husband: A Grumpy Boss Romantic Comedy by Erin McCarthy. Dakota Tanner’s life is a hot mess; she speaks before she thinks, spends before she earns, and lives in the moment. She is in need of some major life changes. Meeting her boyfriend for a holiday party Dakota finds herself at a wedding, hers. Fleeing as quickly as she can, she actually runs into a man, Brandon, who saves her from the worse night possible; making memories together. On Valentine’s Day, Dakota attends a charity party for children and makes a grand entrance, sliding down the banister; running into a man standing at the bottom, spilling his drink. Looking up, she’s surprised that it’s the same man from the holiday party. This has to be coincidence, right. After a night of burning up the sheets, Brandon disappears, leaving an illegible number and asking her to call him; which she is unable to do. Fast forward five months when Dakota spies him on the football field, as the coach, while she’s one of the cheerleaders. When things go from bad to worse Brandon asks Dakota for to be a nanny for his daughters while having a secret romance. Dakota should say no, except the magnetic attraction and chemistry draws her in. Now Dakota has to deal with a grumpy boss who knows how to curl her toes in bed and help out his wild daughters, as her dancing career fades.
Ms. McCarthy wrote a wonderful, funny and smexy story that should not be missed. She provided a tale full of sexual chemistry, humor, and endearing characters giving Dakota and Brandon a chance to find love and ahappy ever after future together. I highly recommend Halftime Husband to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. McCarthy wrote a wonderful, funny and smexy story that should not be missed. She provided a tale full of sexual chemistry, humor, and endearing characters giving Dakota and Brandon a chance to find love and ahappy ever after future together. I highly recommend Halftime Husband to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 16, 2021
Brandon and Dakota stole my heart and never gave it back. They were honestly perfect together but couldn’t get out of their own way to be happy. Who doesn’t love a single dad who puts his kids first? But, this is also part of the problem when his relationship with Dakota is concerned. Dakota is kind of a hot mess but she doesn’t let it bring her down.
Miscommunication and misunderstandings hurt their relationship at the very beginning but when they become nanny and employer, with certain benefits added, things start looking up. Unfortunately, they both believe the agreement they made at the beginning is set in stone, so they take everything one day at a time. They each try to broach the subject of more, horribly, so they become complacent in what they are doing.
I loved his daughters and the connection they had with Dakota. Each girl brought an added depth to all of the relationships. There were a lot of steamy scenes, but there was more to them than just the physical activities. The girls’ biological mother was not in the picture, but I kind of wish that part of the book would have been resolved a little bit more. I also wish her friend, who she went to the charity event with, would have had a a better conclusion (maybe her will get his own book).
I loved this book. There was laughter, connection, heartfelt moments and the grand gesture. I also appreciated that they both owned their mistakes and realized the error they made. Brandon truly was a dreamy single dad, who was a little reticent to open his heart again.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
Miscommunication and misunderstandings hurt their relationship at the very beginning but when they become nanny and employer, with certain benefits added, things start looking up. Unfortunately, they both believe the agreement they made at the beginning is set in stone, so they take everything one day at a time. They each try to broach the subject of more, horribly, so they become complacent in what they are doing.
I loved his daughters and the connection they had with Dakota. Each girl brought an added depth to all of the relationships. There were a lot of steamy scenes, but there was more to them than just the physical activities. The girls’ biological mother was not in the picture, but I kind of wish that part of the book would have been resolved a little bit more. I also wish her friend, who she went to the charity event with, would have had a a better conclusion (maybe her will get his own book).
I loved this book. There was laughter, connection, heartfelt moments and the grand gesture. I also appreciated that they both owned their mistakes and realized the error they made. Brandon truly was a dreamy single dad, who was a little reticent to open his heart again.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
February 20, 2021
Halftime Husband is by far my favorite out of the Sassy in the City books. Dakota has been one of my favorite characters in the previous books and I cannot even begin to explain how much more I love her now. Even when she was down in her luck Dakota had a positive and outgoing personality. She was positive and inspiring (and of course hilarious).
Dakota Tanner and Brandon Macnamara had a very unique way of bumping into each other. Their first encounter was unexpected and the two had shared a fun and freeing night, but they never exchanged names or numbers. They left the possibility of meeting each other again to fate and as fate would have it - their second encounter was anything but traditional. Dakota slid-crashed right into Brandon who in turn showered her with Vodka (you'll see what I mean when you read the book). Then fate wanted to play a little game and mix some numbers up so that their third encounter would be unexpected and revealing - as it was then that Dakota realized who Brandon was.
Brandon was a divorced football coach with two daughters, Willow and Poppy - who gave their nanny's a run for their money. Dakota was a struggling dancer who took a job as a cheerleader with none other than Brandon's team. Just imagine all the chaos that followed after.
Halftime Husband was a really fun read. Not only did I fall in love with Dakota more and more, but I LOVED LOVED LOVED Poppy and Willow. Just as their father, the two girls had an instant chemistry with Dakota. When they convince their dad to hire her as their next Nanny - Dakota never thought that she would fall in love with the girls just as much as she had with their father.
I want more of the sassy group of friends. The connection between all of the characters throughout the series is so much fun to see. Dakota and her group of friends are supportive, honest, loving, and hilarious. Maybe Erin will write an extended epilogue update book featuring all the couples and their kids and what they are up to these days.
Dakota Tanner and Brandon Macnamara had a very unique way of bumping into each other. Their first encounter was unexpected and the two had shared a fun and freeing night, but they never exchanged names or numbers. They left the possibility of meeting each other again to fate and as fate would have it - their second encounter was anything but traditional. Dakota slid-crashed right into Brandon who in turn showered her with Vodka (you'll see what I mean when you read the book). Then fate wanted to play a little game and mix some numbers up so that their third encounter would be unexpected and revealing - as it was then that Dakota realized who Brandon was.
Brandon was a divorced football coach with two daughters, Willow and Poppy - who gave their nanny's a run for their money. Dakota was a struggling dancer who took a job as a cheerleader with none other than Brandon's team. Just imagine all the chaos that followed after.
Halftime Husband was a really fun read. Not only did I fall in love with Dakota more and more, but I LOVED LOVED LOVED Poppy and Willow. Just as their father, the two girls had an instant chemistry with Dakota. When they convince their dad to hire her as their next Nanny - Dakota never thought that she would fall in love with the girls just as much as she had with their father.
I want more of the sassy group of friends. The connection between all of the characters throughout the series is so much fun to see. Dakota and her group of friends are supportive, honest, loving, and hilarious. Maybe Erin will write an extended epilogue update book featuring all the couples and their kids and what they are up to these days.
February 13, 2021
I read Halftime Husband in one sitting and I have no regrets. It was light, fun and just what I was looking for.
I recommend reading the prequel novella, Holiday Husband, so you don't miss out on their meet cute moment.
I really liked Dakota. There were times she seemed a bit immature, especially in the beginning, but she owned it, and grew from it, which I very much appreciated. She's an out of work dancer and through meetings best left to the book she ends up taking a nanny job for the head coach of the football team, Brandon.
Brandon has two daughters and I loved how he was with his daughters. He travels a lot obviously, but despite all that wanted to make sure he was the one raising him (his sister had offered to take them). While it complicated the story a bit, you can't be mad that he wanted to keep his relationship with Dakota a secret from them, after all they've already been through.
Willow and Poppy were adorable and precocious. They've been through many a nanny before Dakota came on board. There was an immediate like there, probably because Dakota didn't treat them like a "job". She talked to them and hung out with them and actively made effort to get to know them.
There was obviously a little something that kept them apart near the end, but it wasn't drama, just a thing that happened, that they needed to happen to figure out their feelings.
If you're looking for something light and cute I highly recommend!
I recommend reading the prequel novella, Holiday Husband, so you don't miss out on their meet cute moment.
I really liked Dakota. There were times she seemed a bit immature, especially in the beginning, but she owned it, and grew from it, which I very much appreciated. She's an out of work dancer and through meetings best left to the book she ends up taking a nanny job for the head coach of the football team, Brandon.
Brandon has two daughters and I loved how he was with his daughters. He travels a lot obviously, but despite all that wanted to make sure he was the one raising him (his sister had offered to take them). While it complicated the story a bit, you can't be mad that he wanted to keep his relationship with Dakota a secret from them, after all they've already been through.
Willow and Poppy were adorable and precocious. They've been through many a nanny before Dakota came on board. There was an immediate like there, probably because Dakota didn't treat them like a "job". She talked to them and hung out with them and actively made effort to get to know them.
There was obviously a little something that kept them apart near the end, but it wasn't drama, just a thing that happened, that they needed to happen to figure out their feelings.
If you're looking for something light and cute I highly recommend!
February 15, 2021
Half Time Husband was a delightful read. It wasn't heavy or angsty; just fun from page one. Dakota, a free-spirited dancer living her life in New York, is not looking for anything. She's free of a bad relationship, and she's mostly trying to find employment. Being that free spirit, she literally runs into Brandon. It was a well written and hilarious scene that I enjoyed immensely. Brandon and Dakota have met before, so this happenstance is a happy meeting for both of them.
Brandon has just moved to New York to be the new head coach of the football team, and he's charmed by Dakota's antics and likes that she does not recognize him. This meeting leads to a steamy night with Chinese food, supposed ghosting, terrible handwriting, and some more misunderstandings. When she discovers he's the head coach and realizes she is filling in as a cheerleader, serendipity strikes again. She needs a job; he needs a nanny, easy peasy, right?
We get a delightful story of Dakota providing a compassionate female presence in his daughters' lives. She also fits nicely into Brandon's world.
But of course, there have to be some more misunderstandings for these two to find their HEA. Thankfully Brandon pulls off a beautiful grand gesture that is definitely swoon-worthy and memorable. Half-Time Husband is sweet, funny, and simply a delight to read. I will most certainly be reading more by Erin McCarthy.
Brandon has just moved to New York to be the new head coach of the football team, and he's charmed by Dakota's antics and likes that she does not recognize him. This meeting leads to a steamy night with Chinese food, supposed ghosting, terrible handwriting, and some more misunderstandings. When she discovers he's the head coach and realizes she is filling in as a cheerleader, serendipity strikes again. She needs a job; he needs a nanny, easy peasy, right?
We get a delightful story of Dakota providing a compassionate female presence in his daughters' lives. She also fits nicely into Brandon's world.
But of course, there have to be some more misunderstandings for these two to find their HEA. Thankfully Brandon pulls off a beautiful grand gesture that is definitely swoon-worthy and memorable. Half-Time Husband is sweet, funny, and simply a delight to read. I will most certainly be reading more by Erin McCarthy.
February 13, 2021
Perfect blend of steamy mixed with Erin's fantastic humor!
Dakota is fun and flirty, pretty much lives in the moment, and not looking for a relationship because she has horrible taste in men, but cue Brandon who actually rescued her from her last disastrous relationship. The knight she didn't know she needed.
While Brandon is also not looking for anything more than just a fun night between the sheets because he has two daughters at home and one divorce already on the books, he is drawn to Dakota and her playful nature. He can't deny that no matter when he sees her he can't keep his eyes or his hands off of her, but his career and his children always come first no matter what.
The first time these two meet they both made the mistake of not exchanging numbers. The second time it was basically....I'll say a clerical error. The third time their chemistry is still off the charts and they both are in somewhat of a pickle and in a spot where they can help one another, the biggest question can they do it and not end up in the relationship that neither of them want.
Both Dakota and Brandon are so blinded by what they say they don't want that neither of them are focused on what they can both have. This book is adorable and funny and all kinds of steamy. It's a perfect read for the month of love!
Dakota is fun and flirty, pretty much lives in the moment, and not looking for a relationship because she has horrible taste in men, but cue Brandon who actually rescued her from her last disastrous relationship. The knight she didn't know she needed.
While Brandon is also not looking for anything more than just a fun night between the sheets because he has two daughters at home and one divorce already on the books, he is drawn to Dakota and her playful nature. He can't deny that no matter when he sees her he can't keep his eyes or his hands off of her, but his career and his children always come first no matter what.
The first time these two meet they both made the mistake of not exchanging numbers. The second time it was basically....I'll say a clerical error. The third time their chemistry is still off the charts and they both are in somewhat of a pickle and in a spot where they can help one another, the biggest question can they do it and not end up in the relationship that neither of them want.
Both Dakota and Brandon are so blinded by what they say they don't want that neither of them are focused on what they can both have. This book is adorable and funny and all kinds of steamy. It's a perfect read for the month of love!
February 15, 2021
Brandon is a football coach and a single dad to two girls that scream trouble (specially little Poppy). He is an amazing dad and he does everything he can to make his daughters happy (*swoon”).
Dakota is between jobs and struggling financially. And even when struggling, and not feeling that well about herself, she still holds to her carefree nature. She is witty, sassy, and will definitely make you laugh with the things she says and think.
Though they have instant chemistry, they aren’t looking for something serious. Brandon is focusing on his girls and career and Dakota is trying to get her life back together. But they can’t deny the chemistry between them. It isn’t until Dakota becomes his daughter’s new nanny that things really get complicated. With this, a new relationship of forbidden and hidden kisses develops.
The chemistry between the characters is intense, the relationship Dakota and the girls create is beautiful, and there were a lot of times were I laughed, specifically when Poppy was involved. Though this was my first Erin McCarthy book, I can definitely tell you it it won’t be the last one.
If you’re looking for an age-gap, short, funny and sexy read; I’ll give this one a try!
Note: There’s a short story called Holiday Husband that is a prequel to this novel. I still haven’t read it, but I mention it in case you guys want to read that one first.
Dakota is between jobs and struggling financially. And even when struggling, and not feeling that well about herself, she still holds to her carefree nature. She is witty, sassy, and will definitely make you laugh with the things she says and think.
Though they have instant chemistry, they aren’t looking for something serious. Brandon is focusing on his girls and career and Dakota is trying to get her life back together. But they can’t deny the chemistry between them. It isn’t until Dakota becomes his daughter’s new nanny that things really get complicated. With this, a new relationship of forbidden and hidden kisses develops.
The chemistry between the characters is intense, the relationship Dakota and the girls create is beautiful, and there were a lot of times were I laughed, specifically when Poppy was involved. Though this was my first Erin McCarthy book, I can definitely tell you it it won’t be the last one.
If you’re looking for an age-gap, short, funny and sexy read; I’ll give this one a try!
Note: There’s a short story called Holiday Husband that is a prequel to this novel. I still haven’t read it, but I mention it in case you guys want to read that one first.
February 16, 2021
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊: HALF TIME HUSBAND.
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄: SINGLE DAD, FAKE RELATIONSHIP...
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: ERIN McCARTHY
𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐄: STANDALONE
𝐌𝐘 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋:🔥🔥🔥
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓:🤠🤠🤠🤠
𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆:🌏🌏🌏
𝐄𝐘𝐄-𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑:🦋🦋🦋🦋
Dakota Tanner's career is not going as smooth as she hope and while all her girlfriends are in serious relationship or getting married...she is in a rough patch in that department. She bumps into a handsome charming guy Brendon McNamara for like multiple times and if that's not fate then I don't know what is...
For Brendon, his work and raising his daughters is all that matters but doing them both is taking a toll on him...but when Dakota becomes a nanny for his daughters, the attraction between them knows no bound.
Their life is as different as it can be...Will they be able to make it work?
This was my first read by this author and I couldn't have chosen the best book to start off with...I loved this laugh out loud romance with silly and marvelous characters and a very catchy storyline. I love the kids in this book...added charm to the story.
Brendan and Dakota....🔥❤...Will I could read more and keep on reading about them..
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄: SINGLE DAD, FAKE RELATIONSHIP...
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: ERIN McCARTHY
𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐄: STANDALONE
𝐌𝐘 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋:🔥🔥🔥
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓:🤠🤠🤠🤠
𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆:🌏🌏🌏
𝐄𝐘𝐄-𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑:🦋🦋🦋🦋
Dakota Tanner's career is not going as smooth as she hope and while all her girlfriends are in serious relationship or getting married...she is in a rough patch in that department. She bumps into a handsome charming guy Brendon McNamara for like multiple times and if that's not fate then I don't know what is...
For Brendon, his work and raising his daughters is all that matters but doing them both is taking a toll on him...but when Dakota becomes a nanny for his daughters, the attraction between them knows no bound.
Their life is as different as it can be...Will they be able to make it work?
This was my first read by this author and I couldn't have chosen the best book to start off with...I loved this laugh out loud romance with silly and marvelous characters and a very catchy storyline. I love the kids in this book...added charm to the story.
Brendan and Dakota....🔥❤...Will I could read more and keep on reading about them..
February 16, 2021
Four and a half stars
Halftime Husband by Erin McCarthy is the fifth in her Sassy in the City series, and follows up the delicious novella Holiday Husband.
Dakota Tanner has hit a bit of a rough patch. A professional dancer in between gigs, she's about to be evicted. And her personal life is in the dumps as well, as the hottie Brandon who set her heart pounding in the best of ways ghosts her, and then it turns out that he's sort of her boss.
Brandon Macnamara is the newish head coach. He is there to turn the team around while making sure his daughters get the best care he can buy when he's at work and away games. He isn't there to make eyes with the cheerleaders, even though one in particular is the one who got away.
Ms McCarthy's writing is a true pleasure. While Dakota and Brandon struggle to balance their attraction with their responsibilities, they have friends and family willing to prod and poke, and help them find their way. Thankfully they learn that missteps don't necessarily mean the end of the road, and you're not too old for another chance.
Page-turning, smile-inducing, heat-you-up banter and plotting means Halftime Husband is over all too quickly! Time to re-read the series and enjoy all the fun and flirtation and friendships again.
Halftime Husband by Erin McCarthy is the fifth in her Sassy in the City series, and follows up the delicious novella Holiday Husband.
Dakota Tanner has hit a bit of a rough patch. A professional dancer in between gigs, she's about to be evicted. And her personal life is in the dumps as well, as the hottie Brandon who set her heart pounding in the best of ways ghosts her, and then it turns out that he's sort of her boss.
Brandon Macnamara is the newish head coach. He is there to turn the team around while making sure his daughters get the best care he can buy when he's at work and away games. He isn't there to make eyes with the cheerleaders, even though one in particular is the one who got away.
Ms McCarthy's writing is a true pleasure. While Dakota and Brandon struggle to balance their attraction with their responsibilities, they have friends and family willing to prod and poke, and help them find their way. Thankfully they learn that missteps don't necessarily mean the end of the road, and you're not too old for another chance.
Page-turning, smile-inducing, heat-you-up banter and plotting means Halftime Husband is over all too quickly! Time to re-read the series and enjoy all the fun and flirtation and friendships again.
February 15, 2021
This is the last book in the series about a group of friends living in NY who find love. I have not read the previous books so all my info is from reading this story and not what I remember from a previous story.
This is the last woman standing Dakota Tanner, who met a man on the night her now ex football player boyfriend tried to surprise her with a wedding and the runaway bride met another guy. They never saw each other again but had a wonderful night of ice skating together, until they run into each other on Valentine's night at a party. They hook up but end up not connecting again until she becomes a part time cheerleader and he is the teams coach.
Dylan is a single dad to two girls and he has big nanny issues and things get complicated when his daughters fall into like with her and beg for her to be their nanny. Since Dakota is between jobs, she takes the job and thats when the shenanigans begin.
This was a light reading story about the nanny and the boss. It was fun, flirty and hot. I really enjoyed it. It also easily stands alone.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the last woman standing Dakota Tanner, who met a man on the night her now ex football player boyfriend tried to surprise her with a wedding and the runaway bride met another guy. They never saw each other again but had a wonderful night of ice skating together, until they run into each other on Valentine's night at a party. They hook up but end up not connecting again until she becomes a part time cheerleader and he is the teams coach.
Dylan is a single dad to two girls and he has big nanny issues and things get complicated when his daughters fall into like with her and beg for her to be their nanny. Since Dakota is between jobs, she takes the job and thats when the shenanigans begin.
This was a light reading story about the nanny and the boss. It was fun, flirty and hot. I really enjoyed it. It also easily stands alone.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2021
This was a good read. The beginning was a little confusing. I felt like there was a story already in progress, and I missed the first half of it. After the first couple of chapters it was more about this story though. Brandon was a good guy, although he was pretty back and forth with what he wanted. Dakota was okay, but she was immature to be a 28 year old. "Living in the moment" doesn't mean that you're broke and about to be evicted. The one part that stuck with the most with her was after her and Brandon reconnect after 5 months, and his girls come in right after. Her thoughts to herself was basically "I might be broke and homeless and have no job, but at least Brandon hadn't ghosted me". Really? Dakota was good for the girls, they seemed to open up to her more. There wasn't as much drama as I was expecting. I really thought something was going to happen with Brandon's ex, but that was just kind of randomly thrown in there. The ending was sweet, and these 2 get their HEA. All in all, if you want a light, fun read, this one is for you.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
February 16, 2021
Actual rating: 4.5 stars. Dakota and Brandon have ran into each other several times now and it must be fate. The first time when Dakota is running away from a surprise wedding, the second at a Valentines party. At the Valentines party they end up spending more time together. The third time Dakota runs into Brandon is when she is filling in as a cheerleader for the team he coaches. After a few mishaps between the two Dakota ends up being the nanny for Brandon's two daughters. The only problem is that with two daughters and everything else going on in Brandon's life, he isn't looking for a relationship. At the same point neither is Dakota as she is trying to figure out her life. This was a cute story where Dakota's relationship with his daughters was written well. I liked seeing the interactions of Dakota and the two girls, Brandon and his daughters, Brandon and Dakota and all four of them together. I liked that while these two started off just as attraction something else grew too. But will they fight for an actual relationship or will they part ways like they said they would in the beginning?
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