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Star Crossed #1
Not Until Noah
Carter Westlake is on the brink of being Hollywood gold. Cast as the lead in a highly-anticipated sci-fi trilogy filming in Australia, he’s primed to be the next A-list action hero: all-American, hot as hell, and straight. The problem is, Carter can only check off two of those boxes. But that’s okay—his bisexuality can remain a secret until these movies are behind him.
Childhood educator Noah Jones has a plan. Work as a nanny for six months, make some extra cash, and move to the UK to teach. He doesn’t expect his new boss to be a Hollywood star. And he certainly isn’t prepared to fall for the guy.
One kiss sends them tumbling into a secret relationship, even though they both agree it can be nothing more than a fling. Carter needs to stay in the closet for the sake of his career, and Noah’s leaving. But when their feelings continue to grow into something deeper, Carter has a decision to make. Knowing that exposing his sexuality could cost him his career, would he rather carry on living a lie, or risk it all to stand tall in his truth?
Not Until Noah is the first book in the Star Crossed series, where regular guys meet famous ones, and sparks fly.
Childhood educator Noah Jones has a plan. Work as a nanny for six months, make some extra cash, and move to the UK to teach. He doesn’t expect his new boss to be a Hollywood star. And he certainly isn’t prepared to fall for the guy.
One kiss sends them tumbling into a secret relationship, even though they both agree it can be nothing more than a fling. Carter needs to stay in the closet for the sake of his career, and Noah’s leaving. But when their feelings continue to grow into something deeper, Carter has a decision to make. Knowing that exposing his sexuality could cost him his career, would he rather carry on living a lie, or risk it all to stand tall in his truth?
Not Until Noah is the first book in the Star Crossed series, where regular guys meet famous ones, and sparks fly.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2021
93 people are currently reading
667 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Henry
107 books2,291 followersI like to tell stories. Mostly with hot guys and happily ever afters. They gotta work for it though. No free lunches on my watch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
November 10, 2021
I really wanted to love Not Until Noah by the awesome Lisa Henry, and while I enjoyed the story, it felt a little... bland.
Lisa Henry has it in her to write a passionate, inspiring, sexy story (I KNOW she does), but this story felt pleasant yet underdeveloped. Where was the chemistry? Maybe it's because this was sort of insta-attraction timing, but I felt very little for these two as a couple.
I thought the plot was engaging, and I have a weakness for a closeted actor trope, but I think a slower burn would have helped this book out a bit. I thought the dynamics between Noah, Carter, and Carter's daughter were very sweet, and I liked all of the side characters as well, but I couldn't have been the only one waiting for some drama or the shoe to drop with Carter's ex? I feel like that aspect of the story could have been taken further.
Some of the actions towards the end of the book seemed a little abrupt to me and not quite realistic, but I let those things slide in romance books (for the most part...). While I read the book in less than two days, I'm still hoping that the rest of the series engages me even more. Bring on the feelings, Lisa Henry!
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Lisa Henry has it in her to write a passionate, inspiring, sexy story (I KNOW she does), but this story felt pleasant yet underdeveloped. Where was the chemistry? Maybe it's because this was sort of insta-attraction timing, but I felt very little for these two as a couple.
I thought the plot was engaging, and I have a weakness for a closeted actor trope, but I think a slower burn would have helped this book out a bit. I thought the dynamics between Noah, Carter, and Carter's daughter were very sweet, and I liked all of the side characters as well, but I couldn't have been the only one waiting for some drama or the shoe to drop with Carter's ex? I feel like that aspect of the story could have been taken further.
Some of the actions towards the end of the book seemed a little abrupt to me and not quite realistic, but I let those things slide in romance books (for the most part...). While I read the book in less than two days, I'm still hoping that the rest of the series engages me even more. Bring on the feelings, Lisa Henry!
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November 7, 2021
"I want you. I want you, and I shouldn't, because I can't have you. I'm your employer, and I'm not out, and I can't be out, not now, but I want you, and I'm sorry."
This is the first book in the Star Crossed series, with each book focusing on a different couple. It's a standalone, but the series is interlinked.
Not Until Noah was the first Lisa Henry book I'd read and it was such a cute, low-key angsty book to start with.
Our MCs are Noah Jones and Carter Westlake. Noah is a childhood educator, a gay and out young Australian, looking for a short work contract while planning on moving and working in the UK once the school term starts.
Carter is slightly older, a single dad with a crazy ex-wife, who happens to be a high profile American action movie star filming a trilogy on the Gold Coast. He's also bisexual, but not out, because he fears it would kill his career.
Noah is hired by Olivia on a 'live-in' fixed contract to teach and look after Carter's daughter Emerson, who has come to Australia with her dad while he makes his movies. What could possibly go wrong?
Throw in a homophobic movie producer, a fabulous director, Noah's laid back brother Dylan, a train-wreck of a female co-star, Carter's brilliant sister and assistant Olivia, and of course Bennett, the best body guard ever and you've got a fabulous support cast for Noah and Carter's love story.
You know where this one is going, but it's such a cute journey🥰.
Some steam 🔥but this is no smut-fest.
Recommended.
4 ✨✨✨✨
This is the first book in the Star Crossed series, with each book focusing on a different couple. It's a standalone, but the series is interlinked.
Not Until Noah was the first Lisa Henry book I'd read and it was such a cute, low-key angsty book to start with.
Our MCs are Noah Jones and Carter Westlake. Noah is a childhood educator, a gay and out young Australian, looking for a short work contract while planning on moving and working in the UK once the school term starts.
Carter is slightly older, a single dad with a crazy ex-wife, who happens to be a high profile American action movie star filming a trilogy on the Gold Coast. He's also bisexual, but not out, because he fears it would kill his career.
Noah is hired by Olivia on a 'live-in' fixed contract to teach and look after Carter's daughter Emerson, who has come to Australia with her dad while he makes his movies. What could possibly go wrong?
Throw in a homophobic movie producer, a fabulous director, Noah's laid back brother Dylan, a train-wreck of a female co-star, Carter's brilliant sister and assistant Olivia, and of course Bennett, the best body guard ever and you've got a fabulous support cast for Noah and Carter's love story.
You know where this one is going, but it's such a cute journey🥰.
Some steam 🔥but this is no smut-fest.
Recommended.
4 ✨✨✨✨
June 10, 2023
Really enjoyed this. Nanny/boss is one of my absolute favorites because it comes with forced proximity, forbidden romance, and all the mutual pining. While I really liked this for the most part - it needed another chapter or two of the getting to know you phase and the pining phase because this was too much insta love for my liking.
August 26, 2022
The good:
This was a really cute and easy read, especially if you like celebrity romances like I do. Noah and Carter were adorable.
The not so good:
It was instalove and therefore not really believable. Carter really needs to get out more of he is going to fall so fast for his kid’s nanny, especially considering he is always working and they barely see each other.
The characters weee not very nuanced, they were either perfect or evil.
There was a lot of internal monologuing and boring movie talk.
I’m definitely continuing with this series despite my niggles.
This was a really cute and easy read, especially if you like celebrity romances like I do. Noah and Carter were adorable.
The not so good:
It was instalove and therefore not really believable. Carter really needs to get out more of he is going to fall so fast for his kid’s nanny, especially considering he is always working and they barely see each other.
The characters weee not very nuanced, they were either perfect or evil.
There was a lot of internal monologuing and boring movie talk.
I’m definitely continuing with this series despite my niggles.
November 10, 2021
* 3 stars *
The actor and the nanny.
Noah has just graduated, and he's getting ready to leave for the UK to teach for a couple of years and see his father's home country. He has a few months before the big move, so he thinks that a family that asks for a temporary babysitter is his perfect job.
He goes through an interview, but he doesn't expect a callback, so it's a surprise when he actually gets the job. Everything is more secretive than he's used to. Still, when he goes to the house for his first meeting with the kid, Emerson, and her dad, he understands why as he meets the famous actor Carter Westlake.
Carter is in Australia for a few months filming a series of sci-fi films where he's the lead, and because he'd be gone for so long, he brought his daughter with him. She will be home-schooled for the duration of their stay, so she'll need a nanny that will also act as her tutor.
I liked Noah's interactions with Emerson and his ideas for keeping her engaged in her schoolwork while encouraging her individual interests. Their various outings made for some lovely scenes, even though they occasionally had to be cut short because of the appearance of the paparazzi. Despite her father's money, she was a happy and intelligent child, down to earth and not spoiled.
I don't think Carter and Noah had chemistry. They crossed paths a few times during the first few weeks, and some nights they spent a little more time together winding down from their days, but that wasn't enough for me to see a connection between them. There was no spark. They were just friendly towards each other, even if attracted to each other physically.
In general, it was a good story, but something was missing. The MCs' interactions were lacking, and I didn't really care about how they'd make their relationship work. There were some "bad guys" to give the plot a little spice. It was just frustrating to read about Carter being put in a corner and unable to do anything other than bow to whatever he was told he had to do.
To end my review on a positive note, I'll say that I liked Noah's brother's character, Dylan, very much. While there was no indication we'll see him again as the series goes on, I hope he's getting his very own story in the future. Also, the cover work is just gorgeous!
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
The actor and the nanny.
Noah has just graduated, and he's getting ready to leave for the UK to teach for a couple of years and see his father's home country. He has a few months before the big move, so he thinks that a family that asks for a temporary babysitter is his perfect job.
He goes through an interview, but he doesn't expect a callback, so it's a surprise when he actually gets the job. Everything is more secretive than he's used to. Still, when he goes to the house for his first meeting with the kid, Emerson, and her dad, he understands why as he meets the famous actor Carter Westlake.
Carter is in Australia for a few months filming a series of sci-fi films where he's the lead, and because he'd be gone for so long, he brought his daughter with him. She will be home-schooled for the duration of their stay, so she'll need a nanny that will also act as her tutor.
I liked Noah's interactions with Emerson and his ideas for keeping her engaged in her schoolwork while encouraging her individual interests. Their various outings made for some lovely scenes, even though they occasionally had to be cut short because of the appearance of the paparazzi. Despite her father's money, she was a happy and intelligent child, down to earth and not spoiled.
I don't think Carter and Noah had chemistry. They crossed paths a few times during the first few weeks, and some nights they spent a little more time together winding down from their days, but that wasn't enough for me to see a connection between them. There was no spark. They were just friendly towards each other, even if attracted to each other physically.
In general, it was a good story, but something was missing. The MCs' interactions were lacking, and I didn't really care about how they'd make their relationship work. There were some "bad guys" to give the plot a little spice. It was just frustrating to read about Carter being put in a corner and unable to do anything other than bow to whatever he was told he had to do.
To end my review on a positive note, I'll say that I liked Noah's brother's character, Dylan, very much. While there was no indication we'll see him again as the series goes on, I hope he's getting his very own story in the future. Also, the cover work is just gorgeous!
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
July 7, 2023
Ridiculously frustrating!
90% of this book is repeating the same concept over and over and over until you get to the point where you want to scream at the characters to just make a fucking decision!!!
I'm lowkey impressed at how many ways the same statement was reworded to fill so much of the book!!!
Carter's entire contribution to this story is: I want to come out, but I can't because I'll lose my career, but if I come out and that happens I actually have enough money to live off, I can spend more time with my kid and I can be with the man I love, so I want to come out but I can't....lather rinse repeat. Seriously the dude was annoying as fuck, constantly whining, but then like 95% in he finally decided to flip his whole life upside down based on one super vague text???? Nahhh I don't buy it!
Noah was only marginally better with his constant self-pity and droning on and on about going to the UK with his thermal undies....dude where in the UK are you going?? I'm English, it doesn't get cold enough for thermals unless you work outdoors in winter i.e. you're a farmer, or you live right at the tippy top of Scotland!! You're far more likely to need waterproof everything than thermals 😂 our weather is shit but its mostly rain and gloom, I can't remember the last time we had proper snow or truly freezing temperatures! We also have ridiculous heatwaves and live in highly insulated brick buildings designed to trap heat inside and bake us to death (yet weirdly freeze us in the winter 🙄), plus there's no residential air conditioning unless you're super rich - you're more likely to want to put your undies in the freezer!
My favourite part of this whole story was the kid and the home education - I do this with my kid so I could really relate to that.
Otherwise this story was just immensely frustrating and forgettable, full of extremely weak willed adults and one awesome eight year old.
90% of this book is repeating the same concept over and over and over until you get to the point where you want to scream at the characters to just make a fucking decision!!!
I'm lowkey impressed at how many ways the same statement was reworded to fill so much of the book!!!
Carter's entire contribution to this story is: I want to come out, but I can't because I'll lose my career, but if I come out and that happens I actually have enough money to live off, I can spend more time with my kid and I can be with the man I love, so I want to come out but I can't....lather rinse repeat. Seriously the dude was annoying as fuck, constantly whining, but then like 95% in he finally decided to flip his whole life upside down based on one super vague text???? Nahhh I don't buy it!
Noah was only marginally better with his constant self-pity and droning on and on about going to the UK with his thermal undies....dude where in the UK are you going?? I'm English, it doesn't get cold enough for thermals unless you work outdoors in winter i.e. you're a farmer, or you live right at the tippy top of Scotland!! You're far more likely to need waterproof everything than thermals 😂 our weather is shit but its mostly rain and gloom, I can't remember the last time we had proper snow or truly freezing temperatures! We also have ridiculous heatwaves and live in highly insulated brick buildings designed to trap heat inside and bake us to death (yet weirdly freeze us in the winter 🙄), plus there's no residential air conditioning unless you're super rich - you're more likely to want to put your undies in the freezer!
My favourite part of this whole story was the kid and the home education - I do this with my kid so I could really relate to that.
Otherwise this story was just immensely frustrating and forgettable, full of extremely weak willed adults and one awesome eight year old.
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January 22, 2024
3.75 stars! I didn't have high expectations starting out, so it surprised me how much I liked this story. Both Noah and Carter, the American movie star, were characters I enjoyed spending time with, and the side characters (both family and other cast members) were great too.
There's a deep in the closet-plot, that had nice angst and a discomfort to it that made it ring true. It was only the progression of the romantic development that was a bit off at certain points. The first kiss came out of the blue, without any tangible attraction or build up. But fortuantely the romance got more real to me as a reader, and this was the part of the book I liked the most. The ending wasn't great, plotwise, but a nice HEA in the end.
I'll be quite happy to continue on to the second book in the series.
There's a deep in the closet-plot, that had nice angst and a discomfort to it that made it ring true. It was only the progression of the romantic development that was a bit off at certain points. The first kiss came out of the blue, without any tangible attraction or build up. But fortuantely the romance got more real to me as a reader, and this was the part of the book I liked the most. The ending wasn't great, plotwise, but a nice HEA in the end.
I'll be quite happy to continue on to the second book in the series.
May 9, 2025
I loved this book and I should have hated it. I hate when there is a last minute break up and I hate too much inner monologue. This book has both of those, but they didn’t bother me. What cost the book a star for me was Noah. I couldn’t believe that he would leave Emerson without so much as a goodbye. That little girl loved him and knowing how she felt when her mother left her I had a hard time forgiving him for that. He had agreed to the situation with Carter and I just thought it was cruel to abandon her that. I’m glad to get that off my chest.
I love stories with single fathers. Carter is just about to make his big break in Hollywood. He’s already an established actor, but this 3 movie deal will make him an “A list actor.” Being stuck in Australia for 5 months he doesn’t want to leave his daughter behind for all that time so he needs a nanny to take care of her while he’s at work. They hire Noah. I loved the three of them together. I also loved some of the side characters.
I listened to the audiobook and Gary Furlong did an incredible job.
I love stories with single fathers. Carter is just about to make his big break in Hollywood. He’s already an established actor, but this 3 movie deal will make him an “A list actor.” Being stuck in Australia for 5 months he doesn’t want to leave his daughter behind for all that time so he needs a nanny to take care of her while he’s at work. They hire Noah. I loved the three of them together. I also loved some of the side characters.
I listened to the audiobook and Gary Furlong did an incredible job.
November 10, 2021
3.5 stars
Noah is hired as a nanny to 8 year old Emerson. Her father is Carter a movie star who has just been tapped to star in a big block buster. The new movie brings them to Australia from the US. Which is why Noah is needed.
I love the movie star trope. Said movie star is also closeted.
I enjoyed the dynamic between Carter, Emerson and Noah. Many adorable moments.
The dynamic between Carter and Emerson. Clearly he is a loving father.
Most of the side characters are likable.
Overall an entertaining read. I look forward to this new series.
*ARC provided by GRR, this is my honest review.*
Noah is hired as a nanny to 8 year old Emerson. Her father is Carter a movie star who has just been tapped to star in a big block buster. The new movie brings them to Australia from the US. Which is why Noah is needed.
I love the movie star trope. Said movie star is also closeted.
I enjoyed the dynamic between Carter, Emerson and Noah. Many adorable moments.
The dynamic between Carter and Emerson. Clearly he is a loving father.
Most of the side characters are likable.
Overall an entertaining read. I look forward to this new series.
*ARC provided by GRR, this is my honest review.*
November 11, 2021
It was ok, but kind of lacklustre, which pains me to say, because I normally mesh really well with this author's writing. I felt disconnected from the story and the characters. Hopefully it's a fluke and I'll enjoy the next book more.
October 26, 2023
Sweet story, nicely written. Lovely performance on the audio version by Gary Furlong.
August 12, 2024
I like Lisa Henry as an author, so I wasn't too surprised how much I enjoyed this story...up to a point and the reason why it received 4.5 stars instead of 5. Noah was so sweet and trusting. He had been hired to be the nanny to the 8-year-old daughter of a very famous movie star. No... this was not a particularly unique storyline, but the characters were fantastic and totally made the good things extra special, and on the other hand, they made the things that you just so wished you had the power to stop or change, extra heart breaking when they happened.
You can't keep from adoring Noah. He was such a kind, caring, and loving person. Then we have the movie star, Carter, who was so down to earth, grounded, trying to find a balance between being a good dad and a famous celebrity. Noah fit into their family right away, he belonged there...and of course it didn't take long before he and Carter are drawn to each other. The build up to them becoming friends and that then developing into more was not only perfect but also completely believable.
The story is not super "steamy", they didn't spend half the story in bed...they took trips to the zoo and to see kangaroos...they interacted with Emerson...they swam and talked in the pool... two men getting to know one another and hoping that it just might turn into something else. Their stolen moments and nights together were perfect for the story, very sexy, very intimate, and very, very real. Their first kiss was worth the entire story.
The reader will find themselves being sucked into their life. Emerson was the most adorable 8-year-old girl, and her relationship with her dad...and with Noah and her aunt, was sweet and totally what an 8-year-old would do. However, if you've read enough of these kind of books, you know that the things that Carter was hiding; the day-to-day struggles of him being a closeted gay man...having to play a straight man while trying to avoid the demands of the movie's producer to date his sexy, slutty female co-star...along with his developing feelings for Noah, was 100% a disaster going somewhere to happen and was soon going to explode, making Hiroshima look like a 4th of July sparkler . I only wished there was a little more at the end letting us know how everything played out. I felt the resolution was a little rushed, and not really a resolution, that being my reason for the 4.5-star rating. Overall, it was an enjoyable story.
You can't keep from adoring Noah. He was such a kind, caring, and loving person. Then we have the movie star, Carter, who was so down to earth, grounded, trying to find a balance between being a good dad and a famous celebrity. Noah fit into their family right away, he belonged there...and of course it didn't take long before he and Carter are drawn to each other. The build up to them becoming friends and that then developing into more was not only perfect but also completely believable.
The story is not super "steamy", they didn't spend half the story in bed...they took trips to the zoo and to see kangaroos...they interacted with Emerson...they swam and talked in the pool... two men getting to know one another and hoping that it just might turn into something else. Their stolen moments and nights together were perfect for the story, very sexy, very intimate, and very, very real. Their first kiss was worth the entire story.
The reader will find themselves being sucked into their life. Emerson was the most adorable 8-year-old girl, and her relationship with her dad...and with Noah and her aunt, was sweet and totally what an 8-year-old would do. However, if you've read enough of these kind of books, you know that the things that Carter was hiding; the day-to-day struggles of him being a closeted gay man...having to play a straight man while trying to avoid the demands of the movie's producer to date his sexy, slutty female co-star...along with his developing feelings for Noah, was 100% a disaster going somewhere to happen and was soon going to explode, making Hiroshima look like a 4th of July sparkler . I only wished there was a little more at the end letting us know how everything played out. I felt the resolution was a little rushed, and not really a resolution, that being my reason for the 4.5-star rating. Overall, it was an enjoyable story.
August 3, 2022
This was missing the chemistry and pining of a secret relationship.
The two men fell into bed way too quickly and way to easily for my liking.
I expected more from Lisa Henry.
The two men fell into bed way too quickly and way to easily for my liking.
I expected more from Lisa Henry.
April 10, 2022
Sweet and sedate.
Yes, there was a calmness throughout and no *major* angst or drama. This is funny considering a closeted actor falls in love with his nanny. You might expect a huge overly dramatic scene and there really wasn't one.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it. Henry gives us solid characters in a gorgeous setting and delivered an engaging story. It didn't rip out my heart. Nor cause my heart to race.
It simply was an entertaining read about falling in love unexpectedly and the roadblocks involved. I loved both Noah and Carter and his adorable little girl.
And I'm anxious to discover who tames Marco's heart next!
Yes, there was a calmness throughout and no *major* angst or drama. This is funny considering a closeted actor falls in love with his nanny. You might expect a huge overly dramatic scene and there really wasn't one.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it. Henry gives us solid characters in a gorgeous setting and delivered an engaging story. It didn't rip out my heart. Nor cause my heart to race.
It simply was an entertaining read about falling in love unexpectedly and the roadblocks involved. I loved both Noah and Carter and his adorable little girl.
And I'm anxious to discover who tames Marco's heart next!
November 8, 2021
Low angst, sweet story. Kind of simple, nothing original, nothing that stood out. I'll forget it it a few weeks.
November 6, 2021
3 and a half stars. This author is a little hit and miss for me. She's written some wonderful books, but others haven't quite hit the spot for me. This is a sweet, low angst tale about a manny and his hollywood superstar employer. it follows a fairly common path, superstar loves manny, but can't come out cos of possible cost to career. However, it was an easy read. A pretty fluffy romance with cute guys, adorable kiddie, plus doting parent. Nice story, nice ending, well written.
November 5, 2021
Loved Noah and Carter!
I really enjoyed this right from the start. Noah was hired to be a nanny to the 8 year old daughter of a very famous moviestar. While this is not a unique storyline, I really liked how this one played out. First, I absolutely adored both MCs. Noah was such a kind, caring, loving person. Carter was so down to earth, grounded, and just trying to find a balance between being a dad and a famous celebrity. Noah just fits into their family right away and he and Carter are drawn to each other. There was a very believable build up to them becoming friends and that developing into more. While this was not super steamy, I found their stolen moments and nights together just perfect for the story. They were very sexy, very intimate, and very real. Their first kiss gave me all the feelings!
I also found myself being sucked into their life. Emerson, the most adorable 8 year old girl, and her relationship with her Dad, with Noah, with her Aunt. Their day to day life and struggles balancing Carter being a closeted and very famous actor and him falling more and more for Noah. It felt very real and very believable. I only wished their was a little bit more at the end letting us know how things all played out, the resolution was a little rushed for me. But overall this was a really enjoyable story!
I really enjoyed this right from the start. Noah was hired to be a nanny to the 8 year old daughter of a very famous moviestar. While this is not a unique storyline, I really liked how this one played out. First, I absolutely adored both MCs. Noah was such a kind, caring, loving person. Carter was so down to earth, grounded, and just trying to find a balance between being a dad and a famous celebrity. Noah just fits into their family right away and he and Carter are drawn to each other. There was a very believable build up to them becoming friends and that developing into more. While this was not super steamy, I found their stolen moments and nights together just perfect for the story. They were very sexy, very intimate, and very real. Their first kiss gave me all the feelings!
I also found myself being sucked into their life. Emerson, the most adorable 8 year old girl, and her relationship with her Dad, with Noah, with her Aunt. Their day to day life and struggles balancing Carter being a closeted and very famous actor and him falling more and more for Noah. It felt very real and very believable. I only wished their was a little bit more at the end letting us know how things all played out, the resolution was a little rushed for me. But overall this was a really enjoyable story!
October 14, 2021
Fabulous start to a new series.
This was so enjoyable that I devoured it in one sitting. Noah and Carter are such great main characters that I couldn’t help cheering them on, even when they gave me so many feels that I may have got a smidge weepy at times. The connection they have between them is undeniable so it does lead to some steam but this is not a high heat read and that in no way detracts from the romance element of the plot.
There’s some angst in this, especially with Carter being ensconced in the closet and caught up in the Hollywood movie making machine but after some bumps along the way, Noah and Carter get their well deserved HEA.
This author certainly knows her craft with a wide ranging cast of side characters to keep things interesting. The plot formation was seamless and the pace was perfectly set to keep me turning the pages. We get a sneak peek into the next instalment in the series and I can’t wait!
This was so enjoyable that I devoured it in one sitting. Noah and Carter are such great main characters that I couldn’t help cheering them on, even when they gave me so many feels that I may have got a smidge weepy at times. The connection they have between them is undeniable so it does lead to some steam but this is not a high heat read and that in no way detracts from the romance element of the plot.
There’s some angst in this, especially with Carter being ensconced in the closet and caught up in the Hollywood movie making machine but after some bumps along the way, Noah and Carter get their well deserved HEA.
This author certainly knows her craft with a wide ranging cast of side characters to keep things interesting. The plot formation was seamless and the pace was perfectly set to keep me turning the pages. We get a sneak peek into the next instalment in the series and I can’t wait!
July 7, 2022
3 stars
i think that without the audioboook this would be a DNF, but Gary Furlong and his accents *chef's kiss* makes me miss the A Ferry of Bones & Gold (Soulbound Series) with Jono!
Noah and Carter, they were cute, but nothing special about them Emmerson really stole the show, she was adorable.
not gunna lie i will probably forget this book in a couple days, it wasn't that memorable compared to other celebrities/ nanny books.
i think that without the audioboook this would be a DNF, but Gary Furlong and his accents *chef's kiss* makes me miss the A Ferry of Bones & Gold (Soulbound Series) with Jono!
Noah and Carter, they were cute, but nothing special about them Emmerson really stole the show, she was adorable.
not gunna lie i will probably forget this book in a couple days, it wasn't that memorable compared to other celebrities/ nanny books.
September 15, 2023
Have to agree with one of my GR friend's reviews... this one feels bland.
I felt that the beginning of the relationship, most especially, happened off page and not delivered well to me as a reader. Carter spent most times at set while Noah was at his house with Emerson. How the heck that translated into something of a connection between them? I just didn't FEEL it.
Queer stories related to famous people are tricky for me (except maybe if about theater thespians because queer kids are welcome). I'm not always patient enough to deal with the path they take on - the on-going internal war of coming out vs. popularity.
This one borders on that - at times I was annoyed with Carter's choice. And because I didn't feel the set up of the relationship, I also didn't feel the exact moment of when Carter decided to do what he did in the end. That push wasn't there for me as a reader.
Luckily the other characters that made up this book won me over. From the siblings (Carter's sister Olivia and Noah's brother Dylan were awesome!), Carter's colleagues, Carter's employees, and even Carter's friend in the U.S. (who will star in second book) ... they were all made up for the bland romance.
I felt that the beginning of the relationship, most especially, happened off page and not delivered well to me as a reader. Carter spent most times at set while Noah was at his house with Emerson. How the heck that translated into something of a connection between them? I just didn't FEEL it.
Queer stories related to famous people are tricky for me (except maybe if about theater thespians because queer kids are welcome). I'm not always patient enough to deal with the path they take on - the on-going internal war of coming out vs. popularity.
This one borders on that - at times I was annoyed with Carter's choice. And because I didn't feel the set up of the relationship, I also didn't feel the exact moment of when Carter decided to do what he did in the end. That push wasn't there for me as a reader.
Luckily the other characters that made up this book won me over. From the siblings (Carter's sister Olivia and Noah's brother Dylan were awesome!), Carter's colleagues, Carter's employees, and even Carter's friend in the U.S. (who will star in second book) ... they were all made up for the bland romance.
November 10, 2021
I opted to read this because Lisa Henry wrote it, and while her books have always been a mixed bag for me, I knew it would at least be readable.
I didn’t read the blurb… if I had, I probably wouldn’t have read it, as I generally dislike books with celebrities. And the closeted celebrity trope is pretty much same soup, just reheated.
Regardless of the celebrity status of Carter, I did enjoy this.
It would have rated higher except for two issues I had.
1) I think Noah and Em had more page time together than Carter and Noah, and I felt more of a connection to their relationship than the actual romantic relationship.
2) There’s the whole build up of what coming out would mean and how it would affect Carter’s career, and in the end, none of that is even addressed. It just happens and then it’s HEA and jumps to 5 months later. It felt really anti-climatic and made the whole thing seem like a non-issue. (Plus, we don’t even know which take of Keenan’s character’s death makes the cut).
I didn’t read the blurb… if I had, I probably wouldn’t have read it, as I generally dislike books with celebrities. And the closeted celebrity trope is pretty much same soup, just reheated.
Regardless of the celebrity status of Carter, I did enjoy this.
It would have rated higher except for two issues I had.
1) I think Noah and Em had more page time together than Carter and Noah, and I felt more of a connection to their relationship than the actual romantic relationship.
2) There’s the whole build up of what coming out would mean and how it would affect Carter’s career, and in the end, none of that is even addressed. It just happens and then it’s HEA and jumps to 5 months later. It felt really anti-climatic and made the whole thing seem like a non-issue. (Plus, we don’t even know which take of Keenan’s character’s death makes the cut).
November 13, 2021
The story was building to it's predictable but well-written conclusion when, all of a sudden, the written just sorta fell apart. Transitions were jumping and the pacing felt just slightly off. It was strange.
Overall, the story was exactly what you would expect from a closeted celebrity meets an average Joe story.
Overall, the story was exactly what you would expect from a closeted celebrity meets an average Joe story.
November 14, 2021
'Not Until Noah' is a sweet workplace romance featuring an American movie star and an Australian nanny. I liked the characters and story, but felt like too much of Carter and Noah's relationship was off page, and I needed/wanted more.
November 30, 2025
I’m not sure how much of my enjoyment of this book is from the story or from Gary Furlong’s voice.
It was fine, but I also feel the romance developed super quickly, and I don’t think there were enough interactions to make me believe they fell in love. The ending felt a bit rushed, and I wasn’t a fan of Noah rearranging his entire life plan at the end.
It was fine, but I also feel the romance developed super quickly, and I don’t think there were enough interactions to make me believe they fell in love. The ending felt a bit rushed, and I wasn’t a fan of Noah rearranging his entire life plan at the end.
November 16, 2021
3.5 stars. A famous movie star and the nanny Uhm, manny! A sweet child to take care of. A supportive sister, an awesome brother. Co-actors, real friends, and fake ones A bunch of characters!
In the beginning, there is a lot of denials, excuses for a kiss, and more excuses, they will be friends, nothing more can happen. First, because it’s unprofessional, and second, Noah will leave and settle in the UK, third... Carter has to stay in the closet, for his career.
I loved Carter and Noah separately, together I missed the necessary sparkle and chemistry, luckily the content was really entertaining.
The difficulties of being a celebrity were well pictured.
The story was quite sweet and entertaining, I liked it, not loved it. I missed things that made it a convincing story and made me feel involved and more connected. Still, the writing was good!
In the beginning, there is a lot of denials, excuses for a kiss, and more excuses, they will be friends, nothing more can happen. First, because it’s unprofessional, and second, Noah will leave and settle in the UK, third... Carter has to stay in the closet, for his career.
I loved Carter and Noah separately, together I missed the necessary sparkle and chemistry, luckily the content was really entertaining.
The difficulties of being a celebrity were well pictured.
The story was quite sweet and entertaining, I liked it, not loved it. I missed things that made it a convincing story and made me feel involved and more connected. Still, the writing was good!
April 12, 2023
This was a good story, a well-executed trope of employer/employee - celebrity/not-celebrity relationship. Noah is a good person and knows who he is, and what he wants to do with his life. Carter, is a good person, and knows who he is (bi-sexual) and he knows what he wants to do with his life (be an actor), but for Carter, he can't have/be both of those things...or so he thinks. Many times Carter said he could quit and that he has money to support him and Emerson, his daughter, but he loves acting and doesn't want to give it up. Which is fine until he meets Noah. Noah makes Carter want to come out and be his real self, other people be damned.
The relationship developed (mostly) naturally. The only issue I had is that there weren't lingering glances or touches or something to indicate to each other there was this heat between them. They each acknowledge it to themselves, but when it came to showing that to each other, it felt almost like it came abruptly. Though, as the story progressed and they finally share a kiss, I didn't really mind the way it all developed, I just noticed it.
The rest is probably pretty predictable and I don't want to give away spoilers. There is a happy ending, one I wish I could have seen more of to know what Noah is doing. It sounded like he is teaching but I wanted to hear more about that. And Emerson, what is she doing? How is she loving Carter and Noah being together? She's crazy about Noah and I am sure ecstatic, but we don't get to see them as a family unit. Hopefully we get to see some of that in book 2, though I am not crazy about the premise to book 2. I assumed it would be about him, but I thought he would get involved in a character we already met in book 1. Oh well.
The narration was great and I give it 5 stars. The story is 4ish stars because of the slight niggle I mention about their first kiss, and the ending (I wanted more!). 😊
The relationship developed (mostly) naturally. The only issue I had is that there weren't lingering glances or touches or something to indicate to each other there was this heat between them. They each acknowledge it to themselves, but when it came to showing that to each other, it felt almost like it came abruptly. Though, as the story progressed and they finally share a kiss, I didn't really mind the way it all developed, I just noticed it.
The rest is probably pretty predictable and I don't want to give away spoilers. There is a happy ending, one I wish I could have seen more of to know what Noah is doing. It sounded like he is teaching but I wanted to hear more about that. And Emerson, what is she doing? How is she loving Carter and Noah being together? She's crazy about Noah and I am sure ecstatic, but we don't get to see them as a family unit. Hopefully we get to see some of that in book 2, though I am not crazy about the premise to book 2. I assumed it would be about him, but I thought he would get involved in a character we already met in book 1. Oh well.
The narration was great and I give it 5 stars. The story is 4ish stars because of the slight niggle I mention about their first kiss, and the ending (I wanted more!). 😊
July 31, 2024
Voto: 4.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
Noah Jones è un ragazzo australiano di ventitré anni che desidera andare a insegnare in Gran Bretagna e nel mentre girare l’Europa. Prima della partenza lavora come “tato” per mettere da parte un po’ di soldi per quando sarà in Europa.
Carter Westlake è un attore ormai affermato che si trasferisce in Australia per girare una serie di film che, se tutto andrà come previsto, lo proietteranno direttamente nell’olimpo delle celebrità hollywoodiane.
Il primo viene assunto da Olivia, la sorella nonché tuttofare di Carter, per svolgere la mansione di tato per Emerson, la figlia di otto anni di Carter, e da qui ha inizio la nostra storia che senza particolari traumi o conflitti porterà i due uomini a conoscersi, ad apprezzarsi, a fidarsi l’uno dell’altro e infine a innamorarsi. Il tutto avverrà con la giusta lentezza e calma, senza fretta e senza situazioni eclatanti, come potrebbe avvenire a chiunque di noi nello scorrere delle nostre vite. C’è solo un grosso problema: Carter non è dichiarato e pur essendo Hollywood a parole un ambiente molto più inclusivo rispetto alla sessualità dei suoi membri di un tempo, sa che se questo aspetto della sua vita privata dovesse trapelare potrebbe rischiare la carriera. Inoltre, il produttore del film, nonché uomo fra i più potenti della scena di Hollywood, Leon Harrison, è un personaggio notoriamente omofobo e lascivo e a cui non si può dire di no; eppure non può fare a meno non solo di essere attratto fisicamente da Noah, quello sarebbe il meno, ma di essere attratto da come Noah interagisce con sua figlia Emerson legandosi, ricambiato sempre di più a lei. Senza dimenticare come sorride, come vive la vita senza secondi fini e calcoli di convenienza… In una parola: da come sia vero, reale, e non un “personaggio” che non fa nulla per nulla.
Dall’altro canto, Noah si sente sempre più attratto e in sintonia non da Carter Westlake la star ma da Carter l’uomo, il padre, il fratello e l’amico e, oltre alla bellezza fisica evidente, nell’altro vede la bellezza interiore e nonostante sappia che il loro rapporto avrà una data di scadenza e non potrà diventare di dominio pubblico e per ultimo non sia propriamente professionale da parte sua, non riesce a impedirsi di volere conoscere e entrare nella vita di Carter sempre un po’ di più man mano che i giorni passano e di innamorarsi di lui.
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
Noah Jones è un ragazzo australiano di ventitré anni che desidera andare a insegnare in Gran Bretagna e nel mentre girare l’Europa. Prima della partenza lavora come “tato” per mettere da parte un po’ di soldi per quando sarà in Europa.
Carter Westlake è un attore ormai affermato che si trasferisce in Australia per girare una serie di film che, se tutto andrà come previsto, lo proietteranno direttamente nell’olimpo delle celebrità hollywoodiane.
Il primo viene assunto da Olivia, la sorella nonché tuttofare di Carter, per svolgere la mansione di tato per Emerson, la figlia di otto anni di Carter, e da qui ha inizio la nostra storia che senza particolari traumi o conflitti porterà i due uomini a conoscersi, ad apprezzarsi, a fidarsi l’uno dell’altro e infine a innamorarsi. Il tutto avverrà con la giusta lentezza e calma, senza fretta e senza situazioni eclatanti, come potrebbe avvenire a chiunque di noi nello scorrere delle nostre vite. C’è solo un grosso problema: Carter non è dichiarato e pur essendo Hollywood a parole un ambiente molto più inclusivo rispetto alla sessualità dei suoi membri di un tempo, sa che se questo aspetto della sua vita privata dovesse trapelare potrebbe rischiare la carriera. Inoltre, il produttore del film, nonché uomo fra i più potenti della scena di Hollywood, Leon Harrison, è un personaggio notoriamente omofobo e lascivo e a cui non si può dire di no; eppure non può fare a meno non solo di essere attratto fisicamente da Noah, quello sarebbe il meno, ma di essere attratto da come Noah interagisce con sua figlia Emerson legandosi, ricambiato sempre di più a lei. Senza dimenticare come sorride, come vive la vita senza secondi fini e calcoli di convenienza… In una parola: da come sia vero, reale, e non un “personaggio” che non fa nulla per nulla.
Dall’altro canto, Noah si sente sempre più attratto e in sintonia non da Carter Westlake la star ma da Carter l’uomo, il padre, il fratello e l’amico e, oltre alla bellezza fisica evidente, nell’altro vede la bellezza interiore e nonostante sappia che il loro rapporto avrà una data di scadenza e non potrà diventare di dominio pubblico e per ultimo non sia propriamente professionale da parte sua, non riesce a impedirsi di volere conoscere e entrare nella vita di Carter sempre un po’ di più man mano che i giorni passano e di innamorarsi di lui.
Continua sul nostro blog!
September 14, 2023
5 stelline 5.
November 6, 2021
I’ve not read many boss-nanny/manny books, and this one was a nice change of pace for me. It was sweet with that bit of longing, and a touch of oh-you-know-what’s-coming…but even if I could see some of the conflict on the horizon, this story still hit me in the feels thanks to the amazing lead characters.
Noah was simply wonderful. He kept an eye on his brother to make sure he stays focused, was intelligent, so very good with kids, and an all-around nice guy. Carter is stuck in that “I need to stay in the closet until I make it big” frame of mind, which is kind of understandable given his position; unfortunately it’s to his own detriment as he sort of digs himself into a hole.
The relationship between the two develops at a normal, easy pace given the boss-employee aspect that neither wants to cross. Once they do though, that chemistry definitely sizzles. They just click together, and as I was reading I was waiting for that one thing that would cause it all to come down. I pretty much knew what would set things off, but wasn’t expecting the bit of extra that happened along with it (yes, I know I’m being vague…can’t spoil it for you, right?).
I really enjoyed this story, it will definitely be one I re-read in the future. 4.5 stars for Not Until Noah, and if you’re a fan of any kind of M/M romance I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy it too. Recommended for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Noah was simply wonderful. He kept an eye on his brother to make sure he stays focused, was intelligent, so very good with kids, and an all-around nice guy. Carter is stuck in that “I need to stay in the closet until I make it big” frame of mind, which is kind of understandable given his position; unfortunately it’s to his own detriment as he sort of digs himself into a hole.
The relationship between the two develops at a normal, easy pace given the boss-employee aspect that neither wants to cross. Once they do though, that chemistry definitely sizzles. They just click together, and as I was reading I was waiting for that one thing that would cause it all to come down. I pretty much knew what would set things off, but wasn’t expecting the bit of extra that happened along with it (yes, I know I’m being vague…can’t spoil it for you, right?).
I really enjoyed this story, it will definitely be one I re-read in the future. 4.5 stars for Not Until Noah, and if you’re a fan of any kind of M/M romance I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy it too. Recommended for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
November 12, 2021
2.5 stars
Full review to come soon.
I wanted to love this one much more than I ended up loving it. This is a book about a closeted actor, which I really dig normally. But I felt like I never connected with the book. You know when you watch a romcom and you enjoy what you watch on the screen but you have trouble connecting with the characters on tv because you feel like you don’t know them enough. Thats exactly how I felt reading this book. It just felt a little underveloped to me and I couldn’t really get into the story because of it.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
Full review to come soon.
I wanted to love this one much more than I ended up loving it. This is a book about a closeted actor, which I really dig normally. But I felt like I never connected with the book. You know when you watch a romcom and you enjoy what you watch on the screen but you have trouble connecting with the characters on tv because you feel like you don’t know them enough. Thats exactly how I felt reading this book. It just felt a little underveloped to me and I couldn’t really get into the story because of it.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
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