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Love Burns
A chef must learn to open her heart when challenged by her young but wise nanny, who has a knack for turning up the heat.
Kimberly Thompson—or Kim Burns, her stage name—is a celebrity chef whose career is taking off. As a single mom who has a penchant for being a bit of a bitch, she goes through nannies like the flavor of the month until Becca Kline is sent to her by Kiddie Academy.
Becca—known as ‘the fixer’—is often sent to homes considered to be troublemakers. In charge of caring for four-year-old Michael, she is determined to make this job her last before student teaching in the fall and finishing up her degree, which she has been working on for the better part of a decade.
Neither Kimberly nor Becca are prepared for the changes headed toward them, and they both have to learn the hard way that love doesn’t wait or discriminate.
Reader advisory: This book contains references to drug use.
Kimberly Thompson—or Kim Burns, her stage name—is a celebrity chef whose career is taking off. As a single mom who has a penchant for being a bit of a bitch, she goes through nannies like the flavor of the month until Becca Kline is sent to her by Kiddie Academy.
Becca—known as ‘the fixer’—is often sent to homes considered to be troublemakers. In charge of caring for four-year-old Michael, she is determined to make this job her last before student teaching in the fall and finishing up her degree, which she has been working on for the better part of a decade.
Neither Kimberly nor Becca are prepared for the changes headed toward them, and they both have to learn the hard way that love doesn’t wait or discriminate.
Reader advisory: This book contains references to drug use.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2021
40 people are currently reading
589 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
77 books420 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 6, 2021
Nanny romance with the feels.
The cover does the book a great service, doesn’t it? It’s so nice. And this book excited me from cover to premise. It has all my favourite tropes – ice queen, age-gap, workplace. And the verdict? I had all the feels from reading it.
Kim is a celebrity chef and divorced. As a single mum to four year old Michael, she has a lot going on. She’s tired, bitter and lonely and comes off as snarky and bitchy. She goes through nannies like they’re the flavour of the month until Becca. At 28, Becca is earning her keep as a fixer nanny while in college studying to be an elementary school teacher and is basically Kim’s last option at the nanny agency.
Nothing is insta about this story, save for Michael’s love for Becca, but neither is this a slow-burn. There’s enough bedroom action and sweet moments but also time for developing feelings and characters. Smith certainly got the ‘melting the ice queen’ formula right and we got to see Kim soften progressively. I love how Becca can hold her own against Kim despite being the employee in the relationship and the 12 year age gap, but is mature enough to be mindful of overstepping parental boundaries. I love their chemistry, it totally works for me.
It’s a bit of a shame that the characters don’t communicate at the most crucial moments though but I love that the adult side characters care enough to bridge the gap for them. And I love how cute a kid Michael is.
This story has some solid writing and an appropriate amount of angst. I really love this one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The cover does the book a great service, doesn’t it? It’s so nice. And this book excited me from cover to premise. It has all my favourite tropes – ice queen, age-gap, workplace. And the verdict? I had all the feels from reading it.
Kim is a celebrity chef and divorced. As a single mum to four year old Michael, she has a lot going on. She’s tired, bitter and lonely and comes off as snarky and bitchy. She goes through nannies like they’re the flavour of the month until Becca. At 28, Becca is earning her keep as a fixer nanny while in college studying to be an elementary school teacher and is basically Kim’s last option at the nanny agency.
Nothing is insta about this story, save for Michael’s love for Becca, but neither is this a slow-burn. There’s enough bedroom action and sweet moments but also time for developing feelings and characters. Smith certainly got the ‘melting the ice queen’ formula right and we got to see Kim soften progressively. I love how Becca can hold her own against Kim despite being the employee in the relationship and the 12 year age gap, but is mature enough to be mindful of overstepping parental boundaries. I love their chemistry, it totally works for me.
It’s a bit of a shame that the characters don’t communicate at the most crucial moments though but I love that the adult side characters care enough to bridge the gap for them. And I love how cute a kid Michael is.
This story has some solid writing and an appropriate amount of angst. I really love this one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2021
3.2 stars
This book started promising but then I felt that there were too many details too so often of the day to day life of the MC’s so I started speedreading and then skipping whole passages to avoid getting bored. That worked, but the book would have been much better if it had been a lot shorter. The romance itself was nice enough. There were some complications however that felt contrived and a little bit of communication could have prevented them. In addition there were some storylines that weren’t finished or resolved too simply, e.g. Drew’s use of drugs and Kimberley’s husbands attitude towards Becca.
So this book was just okay for me.
This book started promising but then I felt that there were too many details too so often of the day to day life of the MC’s so I started speedreading and then skipping whole passages to avoid getting bored. That worked, but the book would have been much better if it had been a lot shorter. The romance itself was nice enough. There were some complications however that felt contrived and a little bit of communication could have prevented them. In addition there were some storylines that weren’t finished or resolved too simply, e.g. Drew’s use of drugs and Kimberley’s husbands attitude towards Becca.
So this book was just okay for me.
July 8, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author. The blurb intrigued me a lot and I fell in love with the story right after the start.
As a star chef Kimberly is great in her job and she is a great mum to her 5 year old son Michael. Even if she doesn’t have much time for him. What she has is enough money to pay a nanny. But because she isn’t the easiest to be around none of the nannies wants to stay longer than a month in her house. When the agency sends her Becca as her next nanny two different worlds collide.
Becca is hardworking and used to difficult tasks. So she doesn’t back up when she is confronted with Kimberly‘s aloofness. First Kimberly is taken a back a bit by this behaviour. She definitely isn’t used to it but at the same time she is intrigued. I loved the chemistry between them and the several sweet moments Becca has with Michael. He is such a sweet boy and will melt everyone’s heart.
When lines get blurred and they are not only the boss and the nanny anymore, the lovers of the heat department will definitely get to enjoy themselves a lot. I most definitely did. Unfortunately what lacks between them is the communication which will make them both hurting a lot. There were moments I wanted to shake them and to be honest in this part until almost the end of the book I was irritated several times with Becca. She expected to be treated in a specific kind of way by Kimberly but she herself definitely lacked in that department. My heart definitely went out more to Kimberly there than the opposite way around.
But of course great book needs to have characters with flaws. And that’s what you definitely get in this book and made me so invested. I don’t think I would have been so much in a story where everything was only happy and sunshine.
And with Becca’s friend Drew and Kim’s ex Bradley there were also a great side character that knew when they had to push them in the right direction. So I finished the book happy and smiling. I only wished that the end wouldn’t have come so fast. Personally for me an epilogue was missing.
I still definitely recommend this story and will look out for more by this author.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
As a star chef Kimberly is great in her job and she is a great mum to her 5 year old son Michael. Even if she doesn’t have much time for him. What she has is enough money to pay a nanny. But because she isn’t the easiest to be around none of the nannies wants to stay longer than a month in her house. When the agency sends her Becca as her next nanny two different worlds collide.
Becca is hardworking and used to difficult tasks. So she doesn’t back up when she is confronted with Kimberly‘s aloofness. First Kimberly is taken a back a bit by this behaviour. She definitely isn’t used to it but at the same time she is intrigued. I loved the chemistry between them and the several sweet moments Becca has with Michael. He is such a sweet boy and will melt everyone’s heart.
When lines get blurred and they are not only the boss and the nanny anymore, the lovers of the heat department will definitely get to enjoy themselves a lot. I most definitely did. Unfortunately what lacks between them is the communication which will make them both hurting a lot. There were moments I wanted to shake them and to be honest in this part until almost the end of the book I was irritated several times with Becca. She expected to be treated in a specific kind of way by Kimberly but she herself definitely lacked in that department. My heart definitely went out more to Kimberly there than the opposite way around.
But of course great book needs to have characters with flaws. And that’s what you definitely get in this book and made me so invested. I don’t think I would have been so much in a story where everything was only happy and sunshine.
And with Becca’s friend Drew and Kim’s ex Bradley there were also a great side character that knew when they had to push them in the right direction. So I finished the book happy and smiling. I only wished that the end wouldn’t have come so fast. Personally for me an epilogue was missing.
I still definitely recommend this story and will look out for more by this author.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2021
I was really enjoying this book when suddenly it ended! Double shock, as it didn't feel like an ending and the Kindle said still 5% of book left! So lost a star. Bah!
August 23, 2021
This is a cute romance, but that’s really all it is. It's angsty and drags on a bit while remaining entertaining enough.
Kim is a famous chef who goes through nannies like she goes through dishes in the kitchen. Kim is her chef persona, the mom persona a Kimberly. Hpwchihc strikes me as odd, is say you go by the shortened version in your private life and not necessarily in your professional life, but that's beside the point. Becca is her last chance of finding a nanny who can take care of her son. Becca is 28 and finishing her teaching degree, to make ends meet she works as a nanny. When she steps into Kim Burns’s place she can't believe it, she's had a crush on the chef for a while and adores her shows. She tamps all that down and gets on we'll with Micheal, Kim’s son. Both characters are stubborn and a bit caught up in their careers or their career path.
A drunken night sets feelings in motion, feelings that never get discussed. We are talking weeks first and months later.
The book is nice and entertaining, the cover is really good as well. But the story didn't work 100% for me, mostly because there is just that something missing in this nanny romance. That little spark, internal debate, it just falls a little flat. For me the star of this book is Becca’s best friend Drew, they are hilarious (I could have done without their drug use though, unnecessary info)
3.25 stars
Kim is a famous chef who goes through nannies like she goes through dishes in the kitchen. Kim is her chef persona, the mom persona a Kimberly. Hpwchihc strikes me as odd, is say you go by the shortened version in your private life and not necessarily in your professional life, but that's beside the point. Becca is her last chance of finding a nanny who can take care of her son. Becca is 28 and finishing her teaching degree, to make ends meet she works as a nanny. When she steps into Kim Burns’s place she can't believe it, she's had a crush on the chef for a while and adores her shows. She tamps all that down and gets on we'll with Micheal, Kim’s son. Both characters are stubborn and a bit caught up in their careers or their career path.
A drunken night sets feelings in motion, feelings that never get discussed. We are talking weeks first and months later.
The book is nice and entertaining, the cover is really good as well. But the story didn't work 100% for me, mostly because there is just that something missing in this nanny romance. That little spark, internal debate, it just falls a little flat. For me the star of this book is Becca’s best friend Drew, they are hilarious (I could have done without their drug use though, unnecessary info)
3.25 stars
July 25, 2021
3.75 stars, a solid read.
This ice queen/age gap romance is a cute little story. Kim burns is a TV cooking star who can make a great dish from the simplest items. The one thing she can't do is a keep a nanny, she's on the last one the agency would grant her. Enter Becca, nanny whisperer extraordinaire, who's magic touch can soothe the wildest child. Michael is just the cutest little boy if slightly rambunctious. Becca quickly determines the situation is bad due to Kim's quick temper & biting words. A secret crush on the TV star dudes little to improve the situation but seeing Kim with Michael, & Becca is determined to help this family. This was a little long in storyline due to lack of communication, but does finish up well.
I was given an advanced copy for an honest review.
This ice queen/age gap romance is a cute little story. Kim burns is a TV cooking star who can make a great dish from the simplest items. The one thing she can't do is a keep a nanny, she's on the last one the agency would grant her. Enter Becca, nanny whisperer extraordinaire, who's magic touch can soothe the wildest child. Michael is just the cutest little boy if slightly rambunctious. Becca quickly determines the situation is bad due to Kim's quick temper & biting words. A secret crush on the TV star dudes little to improve the situation but seeing Kim with Michael, & Becca is determined to help this family. This was a little long in storyline due to lack of communication, but does finish up well.
I was given an advanced copy for an honest review.
July 11, 2021
I enjoyed this, It just pulled me right in. I liked both main characters. Kim is a celebrity chef who also has her own restaurant. Becca is a nanny who's called the fixer by her agency because she is assigned to problematic households and solves whatever problem there was the family. Kim has a 4 year old boy, Michael, and goes through nannies like crazy. Either she fires them or they quit because she's so demanding on them.
This has plenty of tropes mixed in: celebrity, age gap, ice queen, and boss/employee romance. There might be more that I didn't recognize, but if you like any of those, you'll probably like this novel. Anyway, the agency sent Becca to Kim because of the problems between Kim and the other nannies. Kim has to make this work because the agency won't send anyone else if Becca leaves. She doesn't have time to care for Michael herself with her busy work life. She works hard because she wants to be able to give Michael a good life. The pressure is on; Kim has to be nice. On the other side of the equation, Becca needs this last job to last until she can start student teaching. The two have some clashes but the attraction is there.
Although there is mutual yet unacknowledged attraction, neither knowing how the other feels, both remain professional until they don't. That sets them up for an agonizing period of time. They don’t talk about what happened or why. It got to the point where I wanted to yell at both of them, but they’re only human. Eventually, things get even more unsettled, and both make bad decisions. This is where them being only fallible humans really became annoying. Kim obviously wanted to talk, but Becca pushed her away at every opportunity. Fortunately, there is an HEA. Both women are likable and understandable and definitely flawed. I think that made this so entertaining for me to read and so easy to root for them.
This has plenty of tropes mixed in: celebrity, age gap, ice queen, and boss/employee romance. There might be more that I didn't recognize, but if you like any of those, you'll probably like this novel. Anyway, the agency sent Becca to Kim because of the problems between Kim and the other nannies. Kim has to make this work because the agency won't send anyone else if Becca leaves. She doesn't have time to care for Michael herself with her busy work life. She works hard because she wants to be able to give Michael a good life. The pressure is on; Kim has to be nice. On the other side of the equation, Becca needs this last job to last until she can start student teaching. The two have some clashes but the attraction is there.
Although there is mutual yet unacknowledged attraction, neither knowing how the other feels, both remain professional until they don't. That sets them up for an agonizing period of time. They don’t talk about what happened or why. It got to the point where I wanted to yell at both of them, but they’re only human. Eventually, things get even more unsettled, and both make bad decisions. This is where them being only fallible humans really became annoying. Kim obviously wanted to talk, but Becca pushed her away at every opportunity. Fortunately, there is an HEA. Both women are likable and understandable and definitely flawed. I think that made this so entertaining for me to read and so easy to root for them.
July 13, 2021
Absolutely fell in love with this book.
I love watching characters evolve. Especially when one has been guarded and has shown an icy, defensive exterior for so long that people have just come to expect it from her (for the most part). Then, BAM! In comes someone who just wants to get through X amount of months and enter the next chapter of her life. Fate has an interesting way of twisting things. And that's what Kim and Becca seemed to face.
It was inspirational, tear-jerking, and moving as I went through this journey with them. Although my favorite touch was sweet little Michael! All of the characters were balanced and every single one of them had an important spot in the story. They felt needed.
I enjoyed Love Burns all the way to the end and I am currently sulking that I'm done. Adrian has done a fantastic job yet again! I can't wait to read this again.
I love watching characters evolve. Especially when one has been guarded and has shown an icy, defensive exterior for so long that people have just come to expect it from her (for the most part). Then, BAM! In comes someone who just wants to get through X amount of months and enter the next chapter of her life. Fate has an interesting way of twisting things. And that's what Kim and Becca seemed to face.
It was inspirational, tear-jerking, and moving as I went through this journey with them. Although my favorite touch was sweet little Michael! All of the characters were balanced and every single one of them had an important spot in the story. They felt needed.
I enjoyed Love Burns all the way to the end and I am currently sulking that I'm done. Adrian has done a fantastic job yet again! I can't wait to read this again.
August 21, 2021
I was enjoying this at first, but then it started to drag on and there was nothing special happening and I could feel myself dozing off some times.... I also did not like that whole weird Jessica situation. It made absolutely no sense and it was just all over the place. That really made me wanna stop reading tbh, but since I spent the whole day around this book, I decided to keep going and after a lot of indecision from one of the MCs, they finally ended up together.
I don’t know if it’s because I really loved the synopsis of the book or what, but my expectations were prolly too high because of that and, as it didn’t end up meeting my expectations, I ended up disappointed. But I recommend this book, nonetheless.
I don’t know if it’s because I really loved the synopsis of the book or what, but my expectations were prolly too high because of that and, as it didn’t end up meeting my expectations, I ended up disappointed. But I recommend this book, nonetheless.
August 19, 2021
Can’t go wrong with an age gap, ice queen, employer/employee lesfic book, which was a perfect beach read. Kimberly Thompson, a celebrity chef was on her last legs with the Kiddie Academy as she kept firing the nannies they sent to work for her. Becca, a 28 year old college student was their last resort. Naturally, the chemistry between the two was apparent from the first moment.
They held off for as long as possible, until one drunken night led to lower inhibitions, which led to some steamy sex. Neither woman could communicate worth a damn, so their fledgling relationship was doomed from the start. Michael, Kimberly ‘s adorable 4 year old was simply delightful and was the best part of the book. I enjoyed the book for the most part because I think Ms. Smith is a fantastic writer, but I spent a lot of time being annoyed a Becca for being immature, blaming Kimberly for everything, and not even giving her the courtesy of an explanation. I found the ending to be really rushed and missing some key HEA details. I look forward her next book!
They held off for as long as possible, until one drunken night led to lower inhibitions, which led to some steamy sex. Neither woman could communicate worth a damn, so their fledgling relationship was doomed from the start. Michael, Kimberly ‘s adorable 4 year old was simply delightful and was the best part of the book. I enjoyed the book for the most part because I think Ms. Smith is a fantastic writer, but I spent a lot of time being annoyed a Becca for being immature, blaming Kimberly for everything, and not even giving her the courtesy of an explanation. I found the ending to be really rushed and missing some key HEA details. I look forward her next book!
May 31, 2022
Ok I have a serious problem with falling for these icy characters 🤦🏼♀️. Kim Burns had me by the end of the first chapter 😍. She’s icy and complicated, but also self aware and will apologise for what she does when necessary and boy does she melt for Becca (her newly hired nanny) She’s devoted to her son and job and is struggling to balance it all along with her attraction and pull towards Becca. Her son Micheal is a absolutely brilliant character he made my heart melt constantly
Becca is just as complicated and the fire to Kim’s ice. She’s far to quick to jump to the worst conclusion were Kim is concerned and is annoyingly petulant. I had a love hate relationship with her for most of the book. However this is what makes her a great character. she made me mad at the same time as I sympathised with her. Most frustrating in the best way 😁. Her best friend Drew is awesome. They’re supportive enough but not scared to call bull shit. I was so happy when they told off Becca for being a total fool, because I was about to go scream at her.
This book is a rollercoaster of a read. You’ll be happy and mad, clutch your chest with deep heart felt emotions and be won over with the sweetest moments between all the characters but especially the ones involving Micheal.
I’m not going to lie at one point I got so angry at the MCs that I swore I wasn’t going to carry on reading 😂😂. However I’m so glad I did because all the not communicating and not committing where for reasons and the end of this story is delicious.
4 stars and I totally recommend this book.
Becca is just as complicated and the fire to Kim’s ice. She’s far to quick to jump to the worst conclusion were Kim is concerned and is annoyingly petulant. I had a love hate relationship with her for most of the book. However this is what makes her a great character. she made me mad at the same time as I sympathised with her. Most frustrating in the best way 😁. Her best friend Drew is awesome. They’re supportive enough but not scared to call bull shit. I was so happy when they told off Becca for being a total fool, because I was about to go scream at her.
This book is a rollercoaster of a read. You’ll be happy and mad, clutch your chest with deep heart felt emotions and be won over with the sweetest moments between all the characters but especially the ones involving Micheal.
I’m not going to lie at one point I got so angry at the MCs that I swore I wasn’t going to carry on reading 😂😂. However I’m so glad I did because all the not communicating and not committing where for reasons and the end of this story is delicious.
4 stars and I totally recommend this book.
November 16, 2022
3.7 ⭐️ An endearing WLW slow-burn romance.
Adrian smith is always making me smile with these reads. Seriously, the writing is always brilliant and the stories are always pretty hard to put down. I made my way through this one in two days.
If you’re looking for a romance with a dash of angst, and a sense of realism then this is for you. It follows Becca who becomes a nanny for celebrity chef Kimberly. They face their issues along the way and it’s refreshing to have a read where they do have to work for what they want.
This is an age gap romance and Kimberly is a single mum.
It’s also pretty spicy… which I was glad about as these two have so much sexual tension it’s maddening.
Rep: WLW mc’s and sc’s. Non binary sc. MLM sc.
Ty to Adrian for sending me a copy I devoured this ✋🏻✨
TW’s listed below, please skip if you do not want vague spoilers.
Tw// Cw// divorce, broken bone (not graphic) , sex scenes (explicit), anal sex, dubious consent (both are drunk in one scene and Kimberly is her employer), ‘fall on deaf ears’ ref’d once, Cheating, Drug and alcohol mentions, outing,
Adrian smith is always making me smile with these reads. Seriously, the writing is always brilliant and the stories are always pretty hard to put down. I made my way through this one in two days.
If you’re looking for a romance with a dash of angst, and a sense of realism then this is for you. It follows Becca who becomes a nanny for celebrity chef Kimberly. They face their issues along the way and it’s refreshing to have a read where they do have to work for what they want.
This is an age gap romance and Kimberly is a single mum.
It’s also pretty spicy… which I was glad about as these two have so much sexual tension it’s maddening.
Rep: WLW mc’s and sc’s. Non binary sc. MLM sc.
Ty to Adrian for sending me a copy I devoured this ✋🏻✨
TW’s listed below, please skip if you do not want vague spoilers.
Tw// Cw// divorce, broken bone (not graphic) , sex scenes (explicit), anal sex, dubious consent (both are drunk in one scene and Kimberly is her employer), ‘fall on deaf ears’ ref’d once, Cheating, Drug and alcohol mentions, outing,
August 20, 2024
I enjoyed reading this novel, but unfortunately it also had a lot of issues. From a pure entertainment point of view, it was perfectly fine, except annoying at times. I make notes as I read and when I finished this novel I knew I enjoyed it, but I only had notes that were negative. For the most part I think these are personal-opinion-type-complaints, but it is what it is.
I was surprised because I absolutely love this author, and they have written some incredible novels. I don’t know if this is because its one of their earlier novels (and they have gotten better) or if its simply a matter of quality varying between novels. I have rated a bunch of their other novels 5-stars and would highly recommend them to anyone. This novel had some great writing, some very heartwarming or memorable scenes, great character moments, and generally kept me interested and reading. There were unfortunately also some issues.
Some Complaints (minimal spoilers below):
-The big one is that mostly all of the conflicts in this novel were caused by the protagonist’s inability to talk to each other. If these characters simply talked out their thoughts and concerns, then this novel would basically not exist. I know this is a common approach to storylines/conflicts, but I think its weak. This novel could have taken a slightly different approach and had essentially the same plotline but been significantly less annoying and more enjoyable.
-Once the talking happened, the rational for why they didn’t immediately reach HEA status was weak, or nonexistent. I think this was a case of “negative motivations” which always makes for weak storytelling. They both liked each other and wanted to be together but weren’t because……. they hadn’t decided to yet?
-The other big thing for me: I was left with a lot of unanswered questions and found that lots of subplots were never resolved. I never felt like we got an answer as to why so many nannies had quit or been fired; she wasn’t the nicest boss but really that wasn’t enough to justify the situation. Also, what was up with Drew’s drug-use subplot, because it didn’t seem to serve a purpose and didn’t go anywhere.
-Nearly all of the spicy scenes seemed to come out of absolutely nowhere. For some reason this bothered me. They were so abrupt and without any hints it was about to happen or buildup that it just seemed “off” to me. Most of the time I was wondering if it was even consensual.
-The ending was rather fast. I feel like, especially given the length of the novel, that the end section could have taken a bit more time.
I was surprised because I absolutely love this author, and they have written some incredible novels. I don’t know if this is because its one of their earlier novels (and they have gotten better) or if its simply a matter of quality varying between novels. I have rated a bunch of their other novels 5-stars and would highly recommend them to anyone. This novel had some great writing, some very heartwarming or memorable scenes, great character moments, and generally kept me interested and reading. There were unfortunately also some issues.
Some Complaints (minimal spoilers below):
-The big one is that mostly all of the conflicts in this novel were caused by the protagonist’s inability to talk to each other. If these characters simply talked out their thoughts and concerns, then this novel would basically not exist. I know this is a common approach to storylines/conflicts, but I think its weak. This novel could have taken a slightly different approach and had essentially the same plotline but been significantly less annoying and more enjoyable.
-Once the talking happened, the rational for why they didn’t immediately reach HEA status was weak, or nonexistent. I think this was a case of “negative motivations” which always makes for weak storytelling. They both liked each other and wanted to be together but weren’t because……. they hadn’t decided to yet?
-The other big thing for me: I was left with a lot of unanswered questions and found that lots of subplots were never resolved. I never felt like we got an answer as to why so many nannies had quit or been fired; she wasn’t the nicest boss but really that wasn’t enough to justify the situation. Also, what was up with Drew’s drug-use subplot, because it didn’t seem to serve a purpose and didn’t go anywhere.
-Nearly all of the spicy scenes seemed to come out of absolutely nowhere. For some reason this bothered me. They were so abrupt and without any hints it was about to happen or buildup that it just seemed “off” to me. Most of the time I was wondering if it was even consensual.
-The ending was rather fast. I feel like, especially given the length of the novel, that the end section could have taken a bit more time.
July 28, 2021
I love this book. Kim is a celebrity chef and a mom. Now divorced she needs live in help with her son. Enter Beeca a college student just wanting to graduate. But there is pull towards each other that is hard to fight. It is a wonderfully written book. Read along and see if Kim and Beeca can find the right recipe.
July 24, 2021
Loved the story.
August 9, 2022
What a great story this was to read. I truly enjoyed it. The MCs were certainly identifiable and very interesting. The story was easy to follow without any glitches to cause a lack of interest in reading the book. The fact that a young child was involved gave the story an even more 'want to read on' element.
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January 25, 2024Normally I do not like to be negative, but this book really lacked in proper communication. I do not think Becca and Kimberly are a good fit for one another, and never actually felt that Becca cared for Kimberly.
March 18, 2024
Read in one sitting! As a 31 year old lesbian, I am always on the hunt for ADULT sapphic love stories that aren't male gaze-y. Young adult romance is fine... Cute, heartwarming, sometimes really impactful. But I don't necessarily want to read about a high school senior wishing the quarterback's girlfriend loved her instead... like... Ever again.
This book is an adult romance. There's an age gap, which I only tolerate when both parties are at or approaching 30 and above. This one is between a 28 and 40 year old, and it's not uncomfortable at all. There are lots of steamy scenes, a compelling story, and lovable characters. Loved it. Very fun!
This book is an adult romance. There's an age gap, which I only tolerate when both parties are at or approaching 30 and above. This one is between a 28 and 40 year old, and it's not uncomfortable at all. There are lots of steamy scenes, a compelling story, and lovable characters. Loved it. Very fun!
July 16, 2021
I gave this book 3 stars, and really wanted to give it 4, but my constant desire to strangle the characters stopped me from doing that.
I was intrigued at the storyline - Kimberly, a busy and cranky celebrity chef churns through nanny’s until she’s got one last shot before her nanny firm fires her. And Becca, a desperate for money, nanny ‘fixer’ is sent as her last resort. Of course sparks fly and soon both women find themselves looking for more.
The book is generally well written, but the issue i have is character motivation and believability. After finishing the book I still don’t know why Kimberly was so cranky all the time, and Becca leaving abruptly with 2 weeks left putting her job, finances, the mental health of Michael and the reputation of the person she was in love with on the line made no sense. I get that it was the ‘big breakup’ plot point, but it just wasn’t fitting for the story and I had to knock a star off for it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was intrigued at the storyline - Kimberly, a busy and cranky celebrity chef churns through nanny’s until she’s got one last shot before her nanny firm fires her. And Becca, a desperate for money, nanny ‘fixer’ is sent as her last resort. Of course sparks fly and soon both women find themselves looking for more.
The book is generally well written, but the issue i have is character motivation and believability. After finishing the book I still don’t know why Kimberly was so cranky all the time, and Becca leaving abruptly with 2 weeks left putting her job, finances, the mental health of Michael and the reputation of the person she was in love with on the line made no sense. I get that it was the ‘big breakup’ plot point, but it just wasn’t fitting for the story and I had to knock a star off for it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2024
This book was awful. Not only did I feel like it was written by a child, but the amount of grammatical errors I found throughout the book truly drug me out of any story that might have been forming. Becca’s lack of communication was so drawn out and eventually infuriating and the characters never developed a real emotional connection, just had sex multiple times (in very cringy writing) and then end up together without solving any of the issues they created for each other. I would not recommend this book to anyone, the only reason I finished it was because I spent money on it.
March 10, 2022
This book is just awful and just made me angry, I really hate Becca with a passion, she is selfish, immature and never listens, she just sucks all around, also, I don't understand what was the purpose of the Jessica relationship other than meaningless drama to fill pages, all it did was make me hate Becca more.
This book suffer from a chronicle lack of communication and even when is happening is one sided, I was actually rooting against them as a couple, Kimberly deserved better.
This book suffer from a chronicle lack of communication and even when is happening is one sided, I was actually rooting against them as a couple, Kimberly deserved better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2021
This stories as hot as the title suggests. Kim Burns/Kimberly Thompson is a career driven chef who does not miss a beat. She is a divorced mother of four year-old Michael. Although she and her cardiologist ex-husband (Bradley) share custody of their your son, her busy schedule makes it necessary for her to employ a nanny. Problem being-she can’t manage to keep one for more than four weeks. Enter Becca Klein, nanny, fixer, and aspiring teacher, to save the day.
Kim has been warned by the baby agency that Becca is the last nanny they would send to her. If Becca quit or was fired, they will drop her as a client. This does not however prevent Becca and Kim for falling for each other.
This is a good story about power dynamics in a relationship. Although this is a consensual, there is a power dynamic which negatively impacted their relationships. Once Becca quits and goes on to do her student teaching, both women have an opportunity to see their relationship as equals and decide if they really want to be together. I appreciate the representation of multiple members of the ️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️⚧ community. One thing I found very interesting is the lack of specific references to physicality. Outside of hair color and length, the author allows the reader to determine the picture of each of the characters.
Well written, fully flushed out characters with strong dialogue. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kim has been warned by the baby agency that Becca is the last nanny they would send to her. If Becca quit or was fired, they will drop her as a client. This does not however prevent Becca and Kim for falling for each other.
This is a good story about power dynamics in a relationship. Although this is a consensual, there is a power dynamic which negatively impacted their relationships. Once Becca quits and goes on to do her student teaching, both women have an opportunity to see their relationship as equals and decide if they really want to be together. I appreciate the representation of multiple members of the ️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️⚧ community. One thing I found very interesting is the lack of specific references to physicality. Outside of hair color and length, the author allows the reader to determine the picture of each of the characters.
Well written, fully flushed out characters with strong dialogue. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2021
This is an adorable story overall. I enjoyed most of the characters and while the story follows a predictable conflict considering a power imbalance, it was told relatively well. There were a couple elements that I felt were thrown in that didn’t actually forward the story or characters for me which is why I rated with 4 stars. Those are centered around Jessica’s reappearance and Drew’s mention of E use. Then I was hoping for a bit more to come out of Kimberly’s book. While they are minor things, I personally felt a couple were unfinished while the other could have been skipped.
I love that Becca finally started to come into her own but she did frustrate me for a bit due to her inability to step up and have a conversation. Yes, while there are always two to have a conversation, you don’t expect that an emotions conversation will be broached by the ice queen. Both Becca and Kimberly had to figure out where they were and what they wanted and then how to accept it. The hot and cold from Becca showed her struggle but I liked how Kimberly handled herself toward the end.
As far as supporting characters, I adored little Michael. MIchael is an anchor for both Kimberly and Becca; the constant they both really want and is the easiest to find and hold to in their dynamic. Becca’s best friend Drew and even Kimberly’s ex-husband Bradley weren���t afraid to keep it real for them or tell them the truth when they needed it.
I received and ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love that Becca finally started to come into her own but she did frustrate me for a bit due to her inability to step up and have a conversation. Yes, while there are always two to have a conversation, you don’t expect that an emotions conversation will be broached by the ice queen. Both Becca and Kimberly had to figure out where they were and what they wanted and then how to accept it. The hot and cold from Becca showed her struggle but I liked how Kimberly handled herself toward the end.
As far as supporting characters, I adored little Michael. MIchael is an anchor for both Kimberly and Becca; the constant they both really want and is the easiest to find and hold to in their dynamic. Becca’s best friend Drew and even Kimberly’s ex-husband Bradley weren���t afraid to keep it real for them or tell them the truth when they needed it.
I received and ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2021
Three from me is a book I enjoyed. Not perfect for me but overall enjoyable.
I enjoyed it from the off. It looked like there was going to be a cliched break up to make up plot arc and I was disappointed and put the book down, (only because I was disappointed grey skies were going to intrude on the previous blue) then I remembered this author had played me for a fool before, and yes they did it again! I happily continued reading! My only slight quibble is the child's age versus speech and development. However I don't actually have kids so not an expert.
The sex scene about 40% in I didn’t really get lost in. I’m not sure if there was too much physical description and not enough sensory or emotional, but I speed read that bit. Personal preference perhaps rather than an author issue, it just didn’t ring right for me, my taste. I sped read the next two too, in fact them all. Then the break up part of the arc came. The usual, not communicating, each thinking they know what the other is thinking. The break up stretched out quite long and, for me the pacing, particularly some in filler scenes, things that happened but didn't move the plot along, as well as some detailed descriptions were too much. Overall good, but some details ie executive chef didn’t quite ring right for me, kiddie behaviour too and the sex scenes. Nothing that would make this a regretted read tho!
I enjoyed it from the off. It looked like there was going to be a cliched break up to make up plot arc and I was disappointed and put the book down, (only because I was disappointed grey skies were going to intrude on the previous blue) then I remembered this author had played me for a fool before, and yes they did it again! I happily continued reading! My only slight quibble is the child's age versus speech and development. However I don't actually have kids so not an expert.
The sex scene about 40% in I didn’t really get lost in. I’m not sure if there was too much physical description and not enough sensory or emotional, but I speed read that bit. Personal preference perhaps rather than an author issue, it just didn’t ring right for me, my taste. I sped read the next two too, in fact them all. Then the break up part of the arc came. The usual, not communicating, each thinking they know what the other is thinking. The break up stretched out quite long and, for me the pacing, particularly some in filler scenes, things that happened but didn't move the plot along, as well as some detailed descriptions were too much. Overall good, but some details ie executive chef didn’t quite ring right for me, kiddie behaviour too and the sex scenes. Nothing that would make this a regretted read tho!
October 9, 2021
Great cover and synopsis. I wanted to love this but just didn’t. Reads as though it’s written chapter to chapter without any overall planning for characters or plot. When the 2 MCs meet there is no immediate recognition of the famous chef, but a bit later it’s worked out they are famous. Then a few chapters down the line they are a longtime crush and much watched on tv. I don’t like it when inconsistency like this pulls me right out of the story.
A good edit may have also corrected bits like “enjoyed the quiet for hours … but it wasn’t long until” - either it was hours or not long!
There were at least 3 lettings go of breath she didn’t know she was holding and while 1 can be allowed as ironic 3 was repetitive and just highlighted it as derivative.
The MCs carry on without ever having a conversation and their actions aren’t really ever believable. There is repeated angst and pining then they get together.
Other reviewers seem to have loved it so don’t let me put you off - I would like to hear what anyone else thinks.
Suggested by Jae in her sapphic reading challenge as girl next door, but I wouldn’t have tagged it that way. Does have a non binary best friend, over 40, age gap and ice queen as well as food industry tags.
A good edit may have also corrected bits like “enjoyed the quiet for hours … but it wasn’t long until” - either it was hours or not long!
There were at least 3 lettings go of breath she didn’t know she was holding and while 1 can be allowed as ironic 3 was repetitive and just highlighted it as derivative.
The MCs carry on without ever having a conversation and their actions aren’t really ever believable. There is repeated angst and pining then they get together.
Other reviewers seem to have loved it so don’t let me put you off - I would like to hear what anyone else thinks.
Suggested by Jae in her sapphic reading challenge as girl next door, but I wouldn’t have tagged it that way. Does have a non binary best friend, over 40, age gap and ice queen as well as food industry tags.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2022
An enjoyable read
Overall an enjoyable read. There’s some odd spindlings of storyline that aren’t resolved, and the final resolution of the story feels very abbreviated, but overall it seems to mostly work.
Two MC’s both stubborn and apparently, despite being full fledged adults, one of whom is a 40 year old with a child and a literal media star, completely incapable of any sort of basic communication. Honestly, the majority of the conflict seems as though it could have been resolved if either character had just sat down and written an email to one another.
I’m fact, I’m going to editorialize a bit, and say that it seems most lesbian fiction could be resolved through the use of 2 minutes of dialogue. That’s neither here nor there.
The son is cute, and is well loved and cared for. Big points for that.
I knocked off 2 stars for my frustration with the main characters and their inability to communicate as well as the unresolved side plots. I would say that the book is worth a read if you enjoy the genre, but not worth recommending if you’re attempting to bring them into the fold with their first lesbian romance/fiction.
Overall an enjoyable read. There’s some odd spindlings of storyline that aren’t resolved, and the final resolution of the story feels very abbreviated, but overall it seems to mostly work.
Two MC’s both stubborn and apparently, despite being full fledged adults, one of whom is a 40 year old with a child and a literal media star, completely incapable of any sort of basic communication. Honestly, the majority of the conflict seems as though it could have been resolved if either character had just sat down and written an email to one another.
I’m fact, I’m going to editorialize a bit, and say that it seems most lesbian fiction could be resolved through the use of 2 minutes of dialogue. That’s neither here nor there.
The son is cute, and is well loved and cared for. Big points for that.
I knocked off 2 stars for my frustration with the main characters and their inability to communicate as well as the unresolved side plots. I would say that the book is worth a read if you enjoy the genre, but not worth recommending if you’re attempting to bring them into the fold with their first lesbian romance/fiction.
December 20, 2021
Love Burns
by Adrian J. Smith
A review by Ka
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I enjoyed reading this well-written book for several reasons. Not only did I like the slowly developing love interest between the two main characters with a considerable age gap between them and furthermore coming from different social and income backgrounds. In addition to the credibly described chemistry between the two, the palpable love of the mother, Kim, and the nanny, Becca, for the young boy Michael, endearingly portrayed in true-to-life terms, as well as the lovingly described preparation of delicious meals was refreshingly entertaining to read.
However, toward the end of the book, I found the time it took for both main characters to each sort out their issues regarding the depth of their feelings for one another against the backdrop of their unbalanced situation to be a bit too drawn out.
The latter is the reason why I am deducting half a star from the possible maximum of five in my personal rating of this otherwise highly recommendable book.
by Adrian J. Smith
A review by Ka
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I enjoyed reading this well-written book for several reasons. Not only did I like the slowly developing love interest between the two main characters with a considerable age gap between them and furthermore coming from different social and income backgrounds. In addition to the credibly described chemistry between the two, the palpable love of the mother, Kim, and the nanny, Becca, for the young boy Michael, endearingly portrayed in true-to-life terms, as well as the lovingly described preparation of delicious meals was refreshingly entertaining to read.
However, toward the end of the book, I found the time it took for both main characters to each sort out their issues regarding the depth of their feelings for one another against the backdrop of their unbalanced situation to be a bit too drawn out.
The latter is the reason why I am deducting half a star from the possible maximum of five in my personal rating of this otherwise highly recommendable book.
April 17, 2024
This book was okay. I thought it had a lot of sweet moments and overall I enjoyed the story.
The reason I only gave it 3 Stars is because it didn’t feel like there was much of an actual relationship between Becca and Kimberly. It felt like one minute they weren’t together and then the next moment they were in love and jumping each other at every moment. I wanted more moments of them building a relationship together so you could point to the moments “that’s where they fell in love”. I also found some of the conversations they had to fell like they were repeating over and over with no change and there were a few times I rolled my eyes.
The sex scenes were good kinda vague in some instances that I thought was odd but not off putting.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that doesn’t get into the weeds with how people fall for one another I think this is a great book for that.
The reason I only gave it 3 Stars is because it didn’t feel like there was much of an actual relationship between Becca and Kimberly. It felt like one minute they weren’t together and then the next moment they were in love and jumping each other at every moment. I wanted more moments of them building a relationship together so you could point to the moments “that’s where they fell in love”. I also found some of the conversations they had to fell like they were repeating over and over with no change and there were a few times I rolled my eyes.
The sex scenes were good kinda vague in some instances that I thought was odd but not off putting.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that doesn’t get into the weeds with how people fall for one another I think this is a great book for that.
August 9, 2021
Becca is nanny to Kimberley’s son. Neither woman is willing to acknowledge the attraction that grows between them. They’re determined to act professionally. Until one night they over-imbibe, and things go further than they should…
This is not the fluffy nanny romance I was expecting. It explores the issues of consent inherent in the situation more deeply than most. Kimberley insists on verbal consent from Becca for everything that happens between them. And Becca wants everything that happens. But there’s still a power imbalance, and this book doesn’t just sweep that under the rug. This book also contains some other-woman drama.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is not the fluffy nanny romance I was expecting. It explores the issues of consent inherent in the situation more deeply than most. Kimberley insists on verbal consent from Becca for everything that happens between them. And Becca wants everything that happens. But there’s still a power imbalance, and this book doesn’t just sweep that under the rug. This book also contains some other-woman drama.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 22, 2021
Love Simmers, Takes Time, and Sometimes Burns - Becca and Kimberly
I liked this slow burn women loving woman romance. I cheered for Kimberly and Becca. Although the set up is Becca as a "fixer" and Kimberly as the client who can't keep a nanny to save her life, what I enjoyed the most were the realistic well-written scenes, the good secondary characters. While as noted there is drug use mentioned off the page, it was relevant to the overall plot.
What I disliked was the ending as it seemed to end mid-stream. The details are what make this story, especially as a sexy slow burn romance. This is like great tasting soup that tastes even better the day after being in the fridge.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this slow burn women loving woman romance. I cheered for Kimberly and Becca. Although the set up is Becca as a "fixer" and Kimberly as the client who can't keep a nanny to save her life, what I enjoyed the most were the realistic well-written scenes, the good secondary characters. While as noted there is drug use mentioned off the page, it was relevant to the overall plot.
What I disliked was the ending as it seemed to end mid-stream. The details are what make this story, especially as a sexy slow burn romance. This is like great tasting soup that tastes even better the day after being in the fridge.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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