What do you think?
Rate this book
The Simple Rules #1
To Not Fall for My Doc
Doctor or Daddy? There's no way Dr. Greer can be both.
He's a twenty-one-year-old young man who’s battled with Hodgkin lymphoma throughout adolescence. Given two years of complete remission, Austin Villiers should be out there living his best life. Instead, he walks the wings of the cancer treatment center, spreading hope and smiles.
My patients’ lives aren’t the only ones he touches. His presence reminds me why I chose this path years ago. But, I have feelings for this boy that goes against everything I believe in. He doesn’t make it easy when he reveals his virgin heart belongs to me.
It's been a long time since I've wanted to be called Daddy. Austin brings back all those protective tendencies. But, how can I break the simplest rule of being a medical practitioner by dating a patient?
The Simple Rules To Not Fall For My Doc is a low angst, light daddy kink, forbidden romance between an oncologist and a patient in complete remission. The books in this series can be read out of order.
MORE TO COME IN THIS SERIES
Book 2: The Simple Rules To Not Date My Best Friend
Book 3: The Simple Rules To Not Marry My Enemy.
He's a twenty-one-year-old young man who’s battled with Hodgkin lymphoma throughout adolescence. Given two years of complete remission, Austin Villiers should be out there living his best life. Instead, he walks the wings of the cancer treatment center, spreading hope and smiles.
My patients’ lives aren’t the only ones he touches. His presence reminds me why I chose this path years ago. But, I have feelings for this boy that goes against everything I believe in. He doesn’t make it easy when he reveals his virgin heart belongs to me.
It's been a long time since I've wanted to be called Daddy. Austin brings back all those protective tendencies. But, how can I break the simplest rule of being a medical practitioner by dating a patient?
The Simple Rules To Not Fall For My Doc is a low angst, light daddy kink, forbidden romance between an oncologist and a patient in complete remission. The books in this series can be read out of order.
MORE TO COME IN THIS SERIES
Book 2: The Simple Rules To Not Date My Best Friend
Book 3: The Simple Rules To Not Marry My Enemy.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2021
About the author
Gianni Holmes
108 books1,333 followersGianni Holmes is a USA TODAY Bestselling author who's embracing her love for literature by wielding the pen and creating stories of her own. She's the author of the popular series The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and The Taking Care series. Gianni is a former teacher of Spanish Language and Hispanic Literature.
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
March 10, 2025
|| 2.0 stars ||
I always try to not judge a book by its cover (or title), but such judgement would appear to be quite accurate in this case.
I mean, does this cover and title look silly and trashy? Yes. Is the content also silly and trashy? Yup. Pretty much.
It’s important to not expect too much from this one. It’s an easy read with absolutely zero conflict and almost no depth. It’s very insta-love and there isn’t a lot of chemistry or development between the MCs.
I wouldn’t really recommend this book, but I can see some people enjoying this if they’re in the right mood for fluff and simplicity.
'The Simple Rules' series:
1. To Not Fall for My Doc - 2.0 stars
2. To Not Date My Best Friend - 1.5 stars
Other Gianni Holmes books:
Miles High - 1.5 stars
‘A Hitman’s Bait’ series - var. ratings
Daddy’s Adorable Assassin - 2.5 stars
Love in Slow M’Ocean - 3.0 stars
Class Act - 2.0 stars
I always try to not judge a book by its cover (or title), but such judgement would appear to be quite accurate in this case.
I mean, does this cover and title look silly and trashy? Yes. Is the content also silly and trashy? Yup. Pretty much.
It’s important to not expect too much from this one. It’s an easy read with absolutely zero conflict and almost no depth. It’s very insta-love and there isn’t a lot of chemistry or development between the MCs.
I wouldn’t really recommend this book, but I can see some people enjoying this if they’re in the right mood for fluff and simplicity.
'The Simple Rules' series:
1. To Not Fall for My Doc - 2.0 stars
2. To Not Date My Best Friend - 1.5 stars
Other Gianni Holmes books:
Miles High - 1.5 stars
‘A Hitman’s Bait’ series - var. ratings
Daddy’s Adorable Assassin - 2.5 stars
Love in Slow M’Ocean - 3.0 stars
Class Act - 2.0 stars
April 2, 2024
Audible 5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
May 24, 2024
Austin Villiers had been dumped by Bryce...his boyfriend that he though had been kind and thoughtful for being with him throughout his cancer treatment and therapy. But now he knows that he only to used him to get recognition, popularity points and praise. Seven years of friendship and what he thought was love although something never felt totally right to him and now, he knows why. Bryce's cheating makes much more sense now.
When his long-time oncologist, Dr. Malcolm Greer, questions Austin he breaks down and "vomits" out the whole story. Soon Dr. Greer's compassion and kindness causes Austin to realize that it’s Dr. Greer that really catches his eye and he begins to pursue him endlessly. Austin never gives much thought to begin with about what will happen to Malcolm’s career if he actually gives in and reacts to his own secret desires for Austin...his patient.
I think that Austin and Malcom over thought this too much. They were following the proper protocols. Austin’s care was turned over to one of Malcom's colleagues, and Austin was always truthful about their attraction and budding relationship... to his mom, to his best friend and anyone else that asked. Malcome was also honest about it to anyone at the hospital that asked. I really couldn't see that they had broken any of the "forbidden rules". You can’t control who you fall in love with or where you meet them. They did follow the proper channels but were still ostracized by Malcolm’s peers/colleagues. Malcom's job was never in jeopardy at the Cancer Center, just his reputation and they each took major emotional hits. You can't help but feel for both men. They couldn’t fight their mutual attractions any longer but still had to fight so much unnecessary oppression.
This is the first book in a new series. It appears that the books don’t interconnect but follow a connected theme instead....so they can be read in any order.
When his long-time oncologist, Dr. Malcolm Greer, questions Austin he breaks down and "vomits" out the whole story. Soon Dr. Greer's compassion and kindness causes Austin to realize that it’s Dr. Greer that really catches his eye and he begins to pursue him endlessly. Austin never gives much thought to begin with about what will happen to Malcolm’s career if he actually gives in and reacts to his own secret desires for Austin...his patient.
I think that Austin and Malcom over thought this too much. They were following the proper protocols. Austin’s care was turned over to one of Malcom's colleagues, and Austin was always truthful about their attraction and budding relationship... to his mom, to his best friend and anyone else that asked. Malcome was also honest about it to anyone at the hospital that asked. I really couldn't see that they had broken any of the "forbidden rules". You can’t control who you fall in love with or where you meet them. They did follow the proper channels but were still ostracized by Malcolm’s peers/colleagues. Malcom's job was never in jeopardy at the Cancer Center, just his reputation and they each took major emotional hits. You can't help but feel for both men. They couldn’t fight their mutual attractions any longer but still had to fight so much unnecessary oppression.
This is the first book in a new series. It appears that the books don’t interconnect but follow a connected theme instead....so they can be read in any order.
February 14, 2024
DNF
Where’s the relationship progression??MC1 went from having a boyfriend for years saying he helped him through being sick(cancer) and having him there gave him something to live for, they break up cos the bf confesses to only have been there for him because he liked the attention of being a supportive partner???? So MC is crying about the breakup then calls the ex and asshole and decides he likes the doctor ?????
Doctor has feelings for the patient …why? How?? Gets turned on when he walks in on the patient getting changed ???
Whatttt 🤡
This kinda read like a rough draft of ideas being thrown out 🙈
Where’s the relationship progression??MC1 went from having a boyfriend for years saying he helped him through being sick(cancer) and having him there gave him something to live for, they break up cos the bf confesses to only have been there for him because he liked the attention of being a supportive partner???? So MC is crying about the breakup then calls the ex and asshole and decides he likes the doctor ?????
Doctor has feelings for the patient …why? How?? Gets turned on when he walks in on the patient getting changed ???
Whatttt 🤡
This kinda read like a rough draft of ideas being thrown out 🙈
Did Not Finish
March 15, 20261⭐️ because I like Iggy Toma as a narrator.
DNF 50%
Audiobook🎧
Narrator:Iggy Toma
My icks
Doctor, patient relationship
Age gap
The final nail in the coffin ⚰️
The much older doctor wanted the 22yr old previous cancer patient to call him “Daddy”
ABSOLUTELY FRIGGIN NOT 🤢🤢🤢
Not my thing, I was willing to overlook the patient doctor relationship and even the age gap, but the DADDY thing, nope.
DNF 50%
Audiobook🎧
Narrator:Iggy Toma
My icks
Doctor, patient relationship
Age gap
The final nail in the coffin ⚰️
The much older doctor wanted the 22yr old previous cancer patient to call him “Daddy”
ABSOLUTELY FRIGGIN NOT 🤢🤢🤢
Not my thing, I was willing to overlook the patient doctor relationship and even the age gap, but the DADDY thing, nope.
January 1, 2023
It was poorly written unfortunately.
October 3, 2021
DNF @ 65%
I tried. Lord knows I tried, but this just wasn’t working for me. I liked the concept, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. It all feels rushed. Forced. The relationship was almost instantaneous. No chance for any type of development. This just feels very surface level. To make matters worse, I’m bored.
Sigh… YMMV
I tried. Lord knows I tried, but this just wasn’t working for me. I liked the concept, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. It all feels rushed. Forced. The relationship was almost instantaneous. No chance for any type of development. This just feels very surface level. To make matters worse, I’m bored.
Sigh… YMMV
March 22, 2025
Angst free and maybe a little (too) fluffy but a nice read. 2.5 ⭐⭐⭐
Read
April 11, 2025DNF at 45%
I'm not going to finish this one. It's not for me.
The book is about Austin, a cancer survivor who falls for his oncologist Malcolm, a guy who's twice his age (22/42) and in general this could've been a good one, but the story doesn't give any kind of romantic build-up from the previous years when Malcolm was Austin's doctor and got him through the worst of times.
He's been treating him since he was 15 years old, although at present Austin is in remission.
“How long?”
“Have I wanted you?”
“Yeah, I always had a crush on you, but it was never serious. Until I turned eighteen and I came in for my checkup. Something changed. I saw the man you are. Not just the doctor who saved my life.”
So, suddenly when Austin was exactly 18, he got a crush on Malcolm.
Right.
After Austin and his boyfriend break up, there's supposed to be long-term pining on both ends for Austin and Malcolm and we didn't really get anything in the story that would tell you Malcom and Austin liked each other. It came out of nowhere and not only that, with one sentence they somehow agreed they wanted a full-blown relationship, took it to the board before anything even happened and then started seeing each other, weeks going by with them occasionally doing something intimate.
The age gap and the power dynamic were addressed terribly.
“You and Dr. Greer?” She slapped her hand over her mouth. “Oh my god. What did he do? How long has this been going on? Did he abuse you? Oh my god, my poor baby, what did that man do to you?” She crushed me into her arms.
"I let out a frustrated growl and fell to my knees at Mom’s side. I took her hand into mine and held on to it, not letting her pull away. “He’s not my doctor anymore. He cares about me in other ways too.”
“Have you slept with him?”
“No, he’s a good man. He wants us to get to know each other first.”
She scoffed. “What more does he need to know about you? Doesn’t he know everything already?”
“Not all things. Please, Mom, will you be okay with this? He’s a doctor. Shouldn’t you be proud that I chose well?”
They're all talking about this relationship that's about to happen like it's a done deal already. But nothing really happened yet at that point, literally nothing. Even when they start seeing each other, it's just testing each other out and the whole story runs towards Austin losing his virginity step by step and then a daddy is thrown in there somewhere, apparently.
If the story had proper build up since Austin was beginning his treatments with Malcolm and him already liking the guy, this would've been something different. The supposed chemistry and emotions behind Austin's pursuit of Malcolm weren't well written, the whole thing just seemed awkward, especially since Austin was in such a vulnerable position, being that younger than Malcolm, inexperienced, betrayed by his long-term boyfriend and in remission.
I didn't like it.
Not this author's best work.
I'm not going to finish this one. It's not for me.
The book is about Austin, a cancer survivor who falls for his oncologist Malcolm, a guy who's twice his age (22/42) and in general this could've been a good one, but the story doesn't give any kind of romantic build-up from the previous years when Malcolm was Austin's doctor and got him through the worst of times.
He's been treating him since he was 15 years old, although at present Austin is in remission.
“How long?”
“Have I wanted you?”
“Yeah, I always had a crush on you, but it was never serious. Until I turned eighteen and I came in for my checkup. Something changed. I saw the man you are. Not just the doctor who saved my life.”
So, suddenly when Austin was exactly 18, he got a crush on Malcolm.
Right.
After Austin and his boyfriend break up, there's supposed to be long-term pining on both ends for Austin and Malcolm and we didn't really get anything in the story that would tell you Malcom and Austin liked each other. It came out of nowhere and not only that, with one sentence they somehow agreed they wanted a full-blown relationship, took it to the board before anything even happened and then started seeing each other, weeks going by with them occasionally doing something intimate.
The age gap and the power dynamic were addressed terribly.
“You and Dr. Greer?” She slapped her hand over her mouth. “Oh my god. What did he do? How long has this been going on? Did he abuse you? Oh my god, my poor baby, what did that man do to you?” She crushed me into her arms.
"I let out a frustrated growl and fell to my knees at Mom’s side. I took her hand into mine and held on to it, not letting her pull away. “He’s not my doctor anymore. He cares about me in other ways too.”
“Have you slept with him?”
“No, he’s a good man. He wants us to get to know each other first.”
She scoffed. “What more does he need to know about you? Doesn’t he know everything already?”
“Not all things. Please, Mom, will you be okay with this? He’s a doctor. Shouldn’t you be proud that I chose well?”
They're all talking about this relationship that's about to happen like it's a done deal already. But nothing really happened yet at that point, literally nothing. Even when they start seeing each other, it's just testing each other out and the whole story runs towards Austin losing his virginity step by step and then a daddy is thrown in there somewhere, apparently.
If the story had proper build up since Austin was beginning his treatments with Malcolm and him already liking the guy, this would've been something different. The supposed chemistry and emotions behind Austin's pursuit of Malcolm weren't well written, the whole thing just seemed awkward, especially since Austin was in such a vulnerable position, being that younger than Malcolm, inexperienced, betrayed by his long-term boyfriend and in remission.
I didn't like it.
Not this author's best work.
Read
April 13, 2022DNF @ 53%. Just couldn't get into it. It a little OTT for me. By other reviews it's clearly me and not the book.
October 12, 2021
Full review to come tomorrow because I stayed up way too late to finish this book. It’s no secret that I love daddy kink books but that i’ve been struggling to find some that work for me lately, but good news is this one really worked for me. This is a low angst and fluffy daddy kink book. There isn’t much happening but there was enough conflicts coming from the plot that it alsays kept me engaged. I went into this book wanting a sweet, low angst daddy kink book with a whole lot of fluff and insta love, which is exactly what I got, which is why I really enjoyed reading this book and it was all I wanted it to be.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
April 6, 2025
“I’m never leaving you like that again,” he said softly. “Please don’t ask it of me.”
2.5 stars. I don't think this was very good and I don't know how much I enjoyed it... but I did read it with a kind of awestruck glee? And that combination of words is gonna give the wrong impression so I'm going to immediately reiterate: I don't think this was very good. I wanted something light to read after a pretty heavy fantasy read, and this is where I landed. It was bonkers in a way I do not know that the author intended it to be. It's unhinged, but in a very calm way. Like, the characters are doing wild shit, but they're also doing it responsibly and ethically with a lot of communication, so it maybe doesn't seem so unhinged. But it is. To me. And I don't dislike that? See like, I like obsessive/possessive shit in romance, but I prefer it when the characters REALISE that they are bonkers. Is that the case with these guys? I don't know... The book has stuff that FEELS like it should be in a dark romance, but it's not dark.
IDK man I'm typing myself into a hole. I am giving the wrong impression of this book. It's about a cancer survivor who starts dating his doctor LOL. Well, ex-doctor; they cut those doctor/patient ties pretty soon. It's age gap, pretty low angst, not quite insta love because they've known each other for years, but all the barriers to their relationship are external, and they get together pretty early. Austin is just getting out of his first relationship, trying to get a sense of normalcy in his life. Malcolm has some serious overbearing protector tendencies, but like in a good way, so it's fine? LOL?
Some spoilery thoughts.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Iggy Toma, and it was really good! Not my favourite from him, in terms of acting and performance, but pretty good. I had started out reading this with my eyeballs, and I didn't love the writing, so the audiobook is really what carried me through this. For better or worse, lol.
Content warnings:
September 28, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
I”ll honestly say I struggled with the plot of this story. Doctor/patient romances are really tricky to do well, and I didn’t really see how Malcolm and Austin fit for a long time. I think the age gap was the bigger issue for me, and I read age-gap stories all the time. It seemed like the men just had such a huge disconnect as partners, with Austin being barely an adult, having so little education, and being very naive about the world in comparison to Malcolm. Also, Malcolm was actively treating Austin at the beginning of the story, and while he’s in remission, getting physical is a big conflict of interest that Malcolm has to navigate. I’ll give bonus points for the author clearly noting the professional issues at stake, though Malcolm doesn’t actually face much blowback from this clear boundary violation. I thought that would bring more tension to the story, but it was downplayed quickly.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
I”ll honestly say I struggled with the plot of this story. Doctor/patient romances are really tricky to do well, and I didn’t really see how Malcolm and Austin fit for a long time. I think the age gap was the bigger issue for me, and I read age-gap stories all the time. It seemed like the men just had such a huge disconnect as partners, with Austin being barely an adult, having so little education, and being very naive about the world in comparison to Malcolm. Also, Malcolm was actively treating Austin at the beginning of the story, and while he’s in remission, getting physical is a big conflict of interest that Malcolm has to navigate. I’ll give bonus points for the author clearly noting the professional issues at stake, though Malcolm doesn’t actually face much blowback from this clear boundary violation. I thought that would bring more tension to the story, but it was downplayed quickly.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
September 25, 2022
Tags: doctor / patient, cancer in remission, daddy kink, virgin MC, size gap, age gap
This was fine. Solid 3*.
This was fine. Solid 3*.
April 16, 2022
Austin is a joy
Austin is a total joy, and I can see why Malcolm is so in love with him. He just brings sunshine to everyone's life.
Austin is a total joy, and I can see why Malcolm is so in love with him. He just brings sunshine to everyone's life.
October 9, 2021
3.5 stars. This was a very sweet romance. I loved the picture of a doctor and a patient, the way it’s written, the content, and the characters. The part about illness, recovering, patient and doctor were thoughtfully pictured.
Only, while both separate characters were sweet and engaging, I couldn’t feel them together. It didn’t click with me, not as lovers and not as Daddy and boy. I’m not sure why, it’s a feeling.
I enjoyed reading the story even with what I said above. The writing was well done. The circumstances were sensitive and considerate approached.
Only, while both separate characters were sweet and engaging, I couldn’t feel them together. It didn’t click with me, not as lovers and not as Daddy and boy. I’m not sure why, it’s a feeling.
I enjoyed reading the story even with what I said above. The writing was well done. The circumstances were sensitive and considerate approached.
September 27, 2021
What a great book! Once I started it I couldn't put it down and finished it in one day! When I read the summary, I was very intrigued but I was scared it was going to be angsty and make me cry. I was wrong! The book was sweet and fun and really romantic. It just warmed my heart! The way Malcom and Austin cared for each other was beautiful. I really loved it. It was beautifully written; the characters were wonderful and the pacing was just perfect. I really recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review
September 27, 2021
Sweet and Lovely
I greatly enjoyed this book, I was worried because of the subject manner that it would take a horrid turn but it became apparent part way through that the author isn't that mean and a HEA was coming.
This is a low angst Daddy/boy book and I believe Austin and Malcolm are perfect for each other.
Austin is just lovely and sweet to everyone truly innocent after everything he has been through and is a cancer survivor, Malcolm was his Dr. He was trying to do the right thing but with many things in life you can't help who you love. Malcolm looks after and loves Austin how he deserves and even though there is struggles in figuring out the change to their relationship they find the way.
The side characters I also enjoyed, but I felt that more could of been put in for Bert and his family, like you meet them and they say how close they are and Austin is family, yet for more than 50% of the book they are not mentioned, also one character I didn't like was another Dr who found out about Malcolm and Austin, it looks like he was trying to make trouble but it wasn't put into the story so I'm left wondering about him and what could of happened. That part felt unfinished to me.
I loved Austin's Mum, she a s great hard working Mum who there for her kid she deserve the little happiness she found at the end and Malcolm brother Abe was funny, he should of been in the book more I think.
Overall I enjoyed the book, another 5 star read from the author. I will and would recommend this to all my friends who enjoy this kind of read.
I received a ARC for my honest review.
I greatly enjoyed this book, I was worried because of the subject manner that it would take a horrid turn but it became apparent part way through that the author isn't that mean and a HEA was coming.
This is a low angst Daddy/boy book and I believe Austin and Malcolm are perfect for each other.
Austin is just lovely and sweet to everyone truly innocent after everything he has been through and is a cancer survivor, Malcolm was his Dr. He was trying to do the right thing but with many things in life you can't help who you love. Malcolm looks after and loves Austin how he deserves and even though there is struggles in figuring out the change to their relationship they find the way.
The side characters I also enjoyed, but I felt that more could of been put in for Bert and his family, like you meet them and they say how close they are and Austin is family, yet for more than 50% of the book they are not mentioned, also one character I didn't like was another Dr who found out about Malcolm and Austin, it looks like he was trying to make trouble but it wasn't put into the story so I'm left wondering about him and what could of happened. That part felt unfinished to me.
I loved Austin's Mum, she a s great hard working Mum who there for her kid she deserve the little happiness she found at the end and Malcolm brother Abe was funny, he should of been in the book more I think.
Overall I enjoyed the book, another 5 star read from the author. I will and would recommend this to all my friends who enjoy this kind of read.
I received a ARC for my honest review.
September 12, 2023
Book 1 - To Not Fall For My Doc - 2.5 stars - 9/11/23
October 1, 2021
The Simple Rules to Not Fall for My Doc by Gianni Holmes is the first book in her Simple Rules series. It is the story of Austin and Malcolm. Austin is a 22 year old cancer survivor and has been in remission for 2 years. He volunteers at the Hope Center which a cancer center and has a floor for terminal patients. He is a ray of sunshine and is very kind and encouraging. He is also inexperienced in many ways, especially with men. Malcolm has been his oncologist throughout all of his illness and continues through his remission. Austin has had a huge crush on him for a couple of years and tries to make him notice this. Malcolm is also attracted to Austin but can’t act on it because of doctor/patient ethics so he tries his best to ignore him. However, one night it comes to a head and they kiss and that was all it took. Malcolm tries to do the right thing by transferring Austin’s care to another doctor he trusts and by telling his boss. The story continues as they learn more about each other and how they will handle the relationship. There are several obstacles like their age difference, how Malcolm’s colleagues react when they find out Austin is his boyfriend and dealing with Austin’s mother and his treatment sponsors. Malcolm also needs to learn how to be his boyfriend and not his doctor, and since Austin has only been in one relationship that didn’t work out, he needs to learn how to be a boyfriend to Malcolm and also not let his inexperience with men get in the way. There is also a terminal patient that Austin befriends and visits at the Center who also plays a small but significant part in the story. I really enjoyed this book as it tugs at your heart with all Austin went through and his hopes for the future. The characters were real and believable and give you a glimpse into what life is like for cancer survivors and their doctors. The treatment sponsors and Malcolm’s brother also added some levity and Austin’s relationship with the terminal cancer patient was very special. It is also a Daddy/Boy trope which is my favorite one and Ms. Holmes writes this well. I am a big fan of her books and this one did not disappoint. I highly recommend it and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 8, 2026
★ ★ ★ ✬
Oh man, the opening scene broke my damn heart. How that dude did what he did after all those years with Austin!! I can't imagine!! And of course Austin was still just rainbows and sunshine. And at times he seemed WAY too young. And it felt a bit off when he was seducing his doctor man.
And Malcolm...his opinion and pull to Austin captured me. BUT, the fact he consulted with the head guy before he even talked to Austin was CRAZY. The relationship felt forced before it even started because of this. And I dunno, something was off with him. He acted all proper and controlled but the way he approached the"daddy kink" was weird as fuck. Not to say he was like a predator, but he gave the vibes because he was obsessed with NOT being one. IYKYK.
The spice was good but it got old with Malcolm mentioning his past boys and kind of comparing them. And the addition of Austin being THAT inexperienced even with a boyfriend of 7 years is a wee bit TOO unrealistic it pulls you out of the story a bit.
I'll admit I really enjoyed the last 20% of the book. The way everyone reacted to their relationship was weird as fuck and the story was a bit abrupt but it wasn't terrible in the end.
🎧: Iggy Toma is of course a fantastic narrator able to easily create a distinction between the younger and older men. Love his voice and his performances. He definitely helped with this one.
꧁𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁꧂
[pov]: 1st, dual
[spice level]: 🌶🌶🌶
[roles]: strict top/bottom
[om/ow drama]: 🚫
[3rd act breakup]:
[audio]: ★ ★ ★ ★ ✬
♡ age gap
🩺 doctor/patient
♡ hurt/comfort (ish)
🩺 daddy/boy
♡ trigger warnings
Oh man, the opening scene broke my damn heart. How that dude did what he did after all those years with Austin!! I can't imagine!! And of course Austin was still just rainbows and sunshine. And at times he seemed WAY too young. And it felt a bit off when he was seducing his doctor man.
And Malcolm...his opinion and pull to Austin captured me. BUT, the fact he consulted with the head guy before he even talked to Austin was CRAZY. The relationship felt forced before it even started because of this. And I dunno, something was off with him. He acted all proper and controlled but the way he approached the"daddy kink" was weird as fuck. Not to say he was like a predator, but he gave the vibes because he was obsessed with NOT being one. IYKYK.
The spice was good but it got old with Malcolm mentioning his past boys and kind of comparing them. And the addition of Austin being THAT inexperienced even with a boyfriend of 7 years is a wee bit TOO unrealistic it pulls you out of the story a bit.
I'll admit I really enjoyed the last 20% of the book. The way everyone reacted to their relationship was weird as fuck and the story was a bit abrupt but it wasn't terrible in the end.
🎧: Iggy Toma is of course a fantastic narrator able to easily create a distinction between the younger and older men. Love his voice and his performances. He definitely helped with this one.
꧁𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁꧂
[pov]: 1st, dual
[spice level]: 🌶🌶🌶
[roles]: strict top/bottom
[om/ow drama]: 🚫
[3rd act breakup]:
[audio]: ★ ★ ★ ★ ✬
♡ age gap
🩺 doctor/patient
♡ hurt/comfort (ish)
🩺 daddy/boy
♡ trigger warnings
March 9, 2025
I’m a huge fan of Gianni Holmes’ books so I pretty much knew from the off that I would like this book! Plus I’m a huge daddy/boy fan and hurt/comfort is my jam. Plus there’s an age gap! SOLD.
Austin if a 22 year old leukaemia survivor who still has regular checkups with his oncologist at the cancer centre where he was treated. He is also now a volunteer at said centre and loves it.
Dr Malcolm Greer is Austin’s much older, gorgeous oncologist. When they both realise they have feeling for each other, Austin moves his treatment to a new doctor and they start to see each other.
It’s sweet and cosy. Mal is a typical Daddy, but he struggles not be his doctor anymore. Austin is a perfect boy, but also finds it hard to appear weak and rely solely on his Daddy.
These two are too cute and the story has a lovely moral as well. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Austin if a 22 year old leukaemia survivor who still has regular checkups with his oncologist at the cancer centre where he was treated. He is also now a volunteer at said centre and loves it.
Dr Malcolm Greer is Austin’s much older, gorgeous oncologist. When they both realise they have feeling for each other, Austin moves his treatment to a new doctor and they start to see each other.
It’s sweet and cosy. Mal is a typical Daddy, but he struggles not be his doctor anymore. Austin is a perfect boy, but also finds it hard to appear weak and rely solely on his Daddy.
These two are too cute and the story has a lovely moral as well. Thoroughly enjoyed.
September 29, 2021
Great concept, engaging characters, though feeling a little rushed in execution, this story is ultimately a cute read. Definitely includes some heavy topics, though they’re handled sensitively and you’re not overly immersed in them. Includes a little bit of Daddy/boy kink, though it’s light and not the driving force behind the story. Tropes are age-gap, doctor/patient taboo, grumpy/sunshine, and almost insta-love (the love was already there, just not acted on).
Ultimately enjoyed the book, just wish it didn’t feel like I was racing to the end of it. The story was very fast paced and actually, for me, detracted from the overall enjoyment.
Ultimately enjoyed the book, just wish it didn’t feel like I was racing to the end of it. The story was very fast paced and actually, for me, detracted from the overall enjoyment.
January 18, 2022
New Lease on Life!
Dr. Malcolm Greer and his patient Austin Villiers have been dancing around an attraction to each other and decide to see if the connection is real. It is a low angst, no surprises, a bit superficial tale. I had mixed feelings about the MCs mostly. Austin came across as a bit immature and Malcolm was a disappointment in the Daddy department. The way Malcolm handled the announcement of the relationship without having the conversation with Austin was ridiculous. The same goes for their financial arrangement discussion in the driveway, ridiculous. He just didn’t seem ready to be a Daddy. Overall, an okay read.
Dr. Malcolm Greer and his patient Austin Villiers have been dancing around an attraction to each other and decide to see if the connection is real. It is a low angst, no surprises, a bit superficial tale. I had mixed feelings about the MCs mostly. Austin came across as a bit immature and Malcolm was a disappointment in the Daddy department. The way Malcolm handled the announcement of the relationship without having the conversation with Austin was ridiculous. The same goes for their financial arrangement discussion in the driveway, ridiculous. He just didn’t seem ready to be a Daddy. Overall, an okay read.
October 11, 2021
I found this book impossible to put down. Austin and Malcolm were a perfect match. The gap b was sweet. This book really had very little drama or angst but a sweet and perfect match. The daddy kink was very mild but still worked. This book was well written and very much so worth the read. I am eager to read the rest of this series. The perfect doctor/former patient romance. Definitely worth your time. I received an arc in exchange for my honest review.
October 11, 2021
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
I enjoyed reading this book for the most part. It was a quick read and I finished it within a few hours. It had a good plot and the story flowed well for the most part. This was a good quick read with pretty well developed characters - I think that Austin was a more rounded character than Malcolm, but it was a short story. The medical situations seemed well handled and seemed to mirror what reality might look like.
I have a couple of sort of spoilers that were my issues... and if you want to know what they are, please click here:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
I enjoyed reading this book for the most part. It was a quick read and I finished it within a few hours. It had a good plot and the story flowed well for the most part. This was a good quick read with pretty well developed characters - I think that Austin was a more rounded character than Malcolm, but it was a short story. The medical situations seemed well handled and seemed to mirror what reality might look like.
I have a couple of sort of spoilers that were my issues... and if you want to know what they are, please click here:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
September 26, 2021
Gianni Holmes’ has written a very sweet low-angst Daddy/boy romance. I do love all her Daddy kink books. In fact, Declan and Owen (from her Taking Care series) were my introduction to a Daddy/boy relationship, and I’ve loved this kink ever since. Malcolm and Austin were no exception. This lovely romance just made me happy.
I wanted to cuddle sweet, sweet Austin. His bubbly personality and ability to put others first made me love him even more. He needed someone who would take care of him in the way that he deserved, and Malcolm was definitely the man for the job. It took me a little longer to warm up to Malcolm (particularly after Austin’s birthday party), but once he was in, he was all in. The way he loved Austin was amazing.
Though they faced quite a few obstacles, they handled everything in a mature manner. There were no miscommunication issues and they talked things out. I really appreciated that. Even when they had to figure out how to change their relationship from doctor/patient to boyfriends the minor problems were addressed quickly and not drawn out into forced drama.
I liked the side characters as well. Austin’s mom, Mr. Evans, and Malcolm’s brother were entertaining. I would have liked to have seen more of Bert (Austin’s friend). It seemed strange that he wasn’t really there in the last 50% of the book. I was also curious if anything happened with the other doctor who seemed to be trying to get Malcolm in trouble because of his relationship. Not that I wanted to read more about the troublemaker, I was just curious about what happened there.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It made me so happy and I cannot wait to read more about Malcolm and Austin (especially Austin’s lab coat fantasy 😉).
**I received an arc for my honest review**
I wanted to cuddle sweet, sweet Austin. His bubbly personality and ability to put others first made me love him even more. He needed someone who would take care of him in the way that he deserved, and Malcolm was definitely the man for the job. It took me a little longer to warm up to Malcolm (particularly after Austin’s birthday party), but once he was in, he was all in. The way he loved Austin was amazing.
Though they faced quite a few obstacles, they handled everything in a mature manner. There were no miscommunication issues and they talked things out. I really appreciated that. Even when they had to figure out how to change their relationship from doctor/patient to boyfriends the minor problems were addressed quickly and not drawn out into forced drama.
I liked the side characters as well. Austin’s mom, Mr. Evans, and Malcolm’s brother were entertaining. I would have liked to have seen more of Bert (Austin’s friend). It seemed strange that he wasn’t really there in the last 50% of the book. I was also curious if anything happened with the other doctor who seemed to be trying to get Malcolm in trouble because of his relationship. Not that I wanted to read more about the troublemaker, I was just curious about what happened there.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It made me so happy and I cannot wait to read more about Malcolm and Austin (especially Austin’s lab coat fantasy 😉).
**I received an arc for my honest review**
October 2, 2021
This was such a sweet read. How Not to Fall for My Doc is the first installment in The Simple Rules Book series by Gianni Holmes. I love Daddy romance and this one did not disappoint. What I liked most is that it was a different Daddy romance from what Gianni normally writes and the age gap was done so tastefully.
She developed the characters to be likable and relatable and the story was just so sweet.
Austin Villars has lived with Hodgkins Lymphoma since he was a teen. Dr. Greer treated his illness with the utmost care. Austin had a boyfriend that he soon finds out was not with him for the right reasons. It doesn't take Austin long to realize that he never loved his boyfriend and he's actually in love with his doctor, Dr. Greer. Getting involved with your doctor is not a good idea, but they know they won't be able to stay away from each other. Dr. Greer goes to the head of Oncology and tells him he wants a relationship with Austin. Their relationship blossoms from there. It's not all hunky-dory as there are difficulties they face along the way such as having to hide their relationship. It isn't long until their relationship becomes public and although this is the case, their love remains strong. Dr. Greer has found his boy and although Austin is new to Daddy kink, he learns fast that he loves having Dr. Greer as his Daddy.
I loved the character and plot development in this book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I received this ARC for my honest review from Gay Romance Reviews.
She developed the characters to be likable and relatable and the story was just so sweet.
Austin Villars has lived with Hodgkins Lymphoma since he was a teen. Dr. Greer treated his illness with the utmost care. Austin had a boyfriend that he soon finds out was not with him for the right reasons. It doesn't take Austin long to realize that he never loved his boyfriend and he's actually in love with his doctor, Dr. Greer. Getting involved with your doctor is not a good idea, but they know they won't be able to stay away from each other. Dr. Greer goes to the head of Oncology and tells him he wants a relationship with Austin. Their relationship blossoms from there. It's not all hunky-dory as there are difficulties they face along the way such as having to hide their relationship. It isn't long until their relationship becomes public and although this is the case, their love remains strong. Dr. Greer has found his boy and although Austin is new to Daddy kink, he learns fast that he loves having Dr. Greer as his Daddy.
I loved the character and plot development in this book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I received this ARC for my honest review from Gay Romance Reviews.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews