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In Vino Veritas #3
Unmanageable
I’ve never been romantic. Just ask my ex-wife.
Since she broke up with me, I get my needs met any time I want, without putting my heart on the line. Exactly how I like it.
But when she is called overseas and leaves me with our child, my bachelor lifestyle ends faster than you can say, “Daddy, I want a pony.”
I need help.
Problem is, help’s come in the form of an incredibly hot nanny.
My employee.
Who is much younger than me.
And also … a guy.
I watch Scott care for my kid and can’t help feeling like he clicks into place in her life.
When he looks at me, though … I get an entirely different feeling. One that makes me long for things I can’t have.
Like him.
Unmanageable is a contemporary m/m age gap romance about a starry-eyed nanny who wants hot-air balloon
rides and singing telegrams and a grumpy single dad who most definitely does not.
Since she broke up with me, I get my needs met any time I want, without putting my heart on the line. Exactly how I like it.
But when she is called overseas and leaves me with our child, my bachelor lifestyle ends faster than you can say, “Daddy, I want a pony.”
I need help.
Problem is, help’s come in the form of an incredibly hot nanny.
My employee.
Who is much younger than me.
And also … a guy.
I watch Scott care for my kid and can’t help feeling like he clicks into place in her life.
When he looks at me, though … I get an entirely different feeling. One that makes me long for things I can’t have.
Like him.
Unmanageable is a contemporary m/m age gap romance about a starry-eyed nanny who wants hot-air balloon
rides and singing telegrams and a grumpy single dad who most definitely does not.
252 pages, Paperback
First published September 13, 2022
191 people are currently reading
2375 people want to read
About the author
Leslie McAdam
34 books1,454 followersLeslie McAdam is a California girl who loves romance and well-defined abs. She lives in a drafty old farmhouse on a small orange tree farm in Southern California with her husband and two small children. Leslie's first published book, The Sun and the Moon, won a 2015 Watty, which is the world's largest online writing competition. She's gone on to receive additional literary awards and has been featured in multiple publications, including Cosmopolitan.com. Her books have been Top 100 Bestsellers on both Amazon and Apple Books. Leslie is employed by day but spends her nights writing about the men of your fantasies.
USA Today interview: http://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/20...
Cosmopolitan: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love...
USA Today interview: http://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/20...
Cosmopolitan: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love...
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September 16, 2023
RATING 4.5 STARS
Unmanageable by Leslie McAdam is book three in the In Vino Veritas series. This can be read as a complete stand alone. It’s my second book by Leslie. The first being her book Undone. I do want to mention that the couple from Undone is present in this book but it won’t take away from your enjoyment if you haven’t met them. It may make you want to go back and read about them though!
Scott Malone is twenty three years old and his life is a mess. Scott is an eternal romantic, an optimist. And he’s terrible at managing money, the very little bit of it he has. He is almost homeless and has a stack of bills he just keeps adding to. He needs another job besides designing greeting cards. And just in time, he finds a job as a nanny to a six year old little girl. When he meets the little girl’s dad, his new hot sexy boss, his life becomes even more complicated. Because the NEW Scott isn’t going to fall for him. He needs this job so he’ll keep their relationship professional! That’s what he tells himself anyway!
Luke Lagomarsino is thirty six years old and is an investment banker. Since he and his daughter’s mom divorced, he moved from Vermont to Manhattan and spends the majority of his time in the office. When he needs sex he finds a quick, no nonsense hook up. When his ex wife needs to leave the country for a few months for a journalism assignment she’s always dreamed of, he needs to go back to Vermont to take care of his daughter. Only he realizes trying to work and take care of her is more then he can handle. He needs a nanny. When he finds Scott, he can’t believe how good he is with Addi. The problem is, Scott is beautiful and kind and caring and makes Luke feel all kinds of things he shouldn’t be feeling for the nanny!
This was such a sweet book. Scott and Luke were perfect for each other. I loved watching Luke finally wake up to a world he had shut himself off from. And I loved watching Scott discover that he had so much to offer. That he could make such a huge difference in Luke and Addi’s lives. He truly was a beautiful soul. I enjoyed this so much and will definitely be reading more by this author!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Unmanageable by Leslie McAdam is book three in the In Vino Veritas series. This can be read as a complete stand alone. It’s my second book by Leslie. The first being her book Undone. I do want to mention that the couple from Undone is present in this book but it won’t take away from your enjoyment if you haven’t met them. It may make you want to go back and read about them though!
Scott Malone is twenty three years old and his life is a mess. Scott is an eternal romantic, an optimist. And he’s terrible at managing money, the very little bit of it he has. He is almost homeless and has a stack of bills he just keeps adding to. He needs another job besides designing greeting cards. And just in time, he finds a job as a nanny to a six year old little girl. When he meets the little girl’s dad, his new hot sexy boss, his life becomes even more complicated. Because the NEW Scott isn’t going to fall for him. He needs this job so he’ll keep their relationship professional! That’s what he tells himself anyway!
Luke Lagomarsino is thirty six years old and is an investment banker. Since he and his daughter’s mom divorced, he moved from Vermont to Manhattan and spends the majority of his time in the office. When he needs sex he finds a quick, no nonsense hook up. When his ex wife needs to leave the country for a few months for a journalism assignment she’s always dreamed of, he needs to go back to Vermont to take care of his daughter. Only he realizes trying to work and take care of her is more then he can handle. He needs a nanny. When he finds Scott, he can’t believe how good he is with Addi. The problem is, Scott is beautiful and kind and caring and makes Luke feel all kinds of things he shouldn’t be feeling for the nanny!
This was such a sweet book. Scott and Luke were perfect for each other. I loved watching Luke finally wake up to a world he had shut himself off from. And I loved watching Scott discover that he had so much to offer. That he could make such a huge difference in Luke and Addi’s lives. He truly was a beautiful soul. I enjoyed this so much and will definitely be reading more by this author!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
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September 10, 2022In case anyone wondered what Scott’s dad’s name is, it’s Jerry. Scott just calls him Dad, so he’s never mentioned by name.
I have a very special place in my heart for Jerry Malone, whose extrovert tendencies are very loosely based on my own dad. I hope you love Jerry as much as I do. In his own way he’s as ridiculous as Scott.
…
Scott was Murph’s third date in Undone, and when he walked in the room I knew I wanted to write his story. Here’s an excerpt (before Scott gets his nanny job for grumpy single dad Luke):
“Now, that’s a solvable problem.” Murph’s eyes light up, and he claps. “What do you want to do for work? What skills do you have?”
“None.”
He glares at me. “You have to be good at something.”
“Well, I’m very good at arranging romantic dates, but that’s not exactly a salaried position.”
He tilts his head to the side. “You could be a wedding planner!”
I scratch the back of my neck. “Actually, that’s not a bad idea.” My shoulders slump. “But I don’t know how to break into that business. And I need money fast.”
“Who needs money fast? You’re still job hunting?” A body hovers over us, and I look up to see my friend Jeremy Everett. After he and I got a tiny bit sauced one night here at V and V, he adopted me as a member of his booklover gang. Like Murph, Jeremy’s a force of nature, only he’s a bit more reformed fuckboi and a bit less princess. He runs a hand through his halo of dirty-blond hair. “You could sell plasma. Or sperm.”
“Hey,” I say, scooting over in the seat to let him in. “And, um, no.”
“I’m not gonna judge,” Jeremy says, holding up his hands. “You gotta do what you gotta do.”
“Even if I were desperate enough to bring the product of my ham candle to market, I’m pretty sure I don’t want to pass on my genetic material. The recipient might end up in as dire straits as me.”
“Product of your ham candle?” Murph and Jeremy say at the same time. Shrugging, I hide my smile.
They burst out laughing, and then Murph clucks his tongue. “I’ve had about enough of ‘Bag on Scottybear’ time. No more, okay? We’re problem solving.”
“Fine.” I grimace. “Just no, uh, dissemination of my, um, semen. For profit. I mean, I don’t have a problem with it, but it’s not for me.”
I have a very special place in my heart for Jerry Malone, whose extrovert tendencies are very loosely based on my own dad. I hope you love Jerry as much as I do. In his own way he’s as ridiculous as Scott.
…
Scott was Murph’s third date in Undone, and when he walked in the room I knew I wanted to write his story. Here’s an excerpt (before Scott gets his nanny job for grumpy single dad Luke):
“Now, that’s a solvable problem.” Murph’s eyes light up, and he claps. “What do you want to do for work? What skills do you have?”
“None.”
He glares at me. “You have to be good at something.”
“Well, I’m very good at arranging romantic dates, but that’s not exactly a salaried position.”
He tilts his head to the side. “You could be a wedding planner!”
I scratch the back of my neck. “Actually, that’s not a bad idea.” My shoulders slump. “But I don’t know how to break into that business. And I need money fast.”
“Who needs money fast? You’re still job hunting?” A body hovers over us, and I look up to see my friend Jeremy Everett. After he and I got a tiny bit sauced one night here at V and V, he adopted me as a member of his booklover gang. Like Murph, Jeremy’s a force of nature, only he’s a bit more reformed fuckboi and a bit less princess. He runs a hand through his halo of dirty-blond hair. “You could sell plasma. Or sperm.”
“Hey,” I say, scooting over in the seat to let him in. “And, um, no.”
“I’m not gonna judge,” Jeremy says, holding up his hands. “You gotta do what you gotta do.”
“Even if I were desperate enough to bring the product of my ham candle to market, I’m pretty sure I don’t want to pass on my genetic material. The recipient might end up in as dire straits as me.”
“Product of your ham candle?” Murph and Jeremy say at the same time. Shrugging, I hide my smile.
They burst out laughing, and then Murph clucks his tongue. “I’ve had about enough of ‘Bag on Scottybear’ time. No more, okay? We’re problem solving.”
“Fine.” I grimace. “Just no, uh, dissemination of my, um, semen. For profit. I mean, I don’t have a problem with it, but it’s not for me.”
September 1, 2022
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
Unmanageable is a fantastic grumpy/sunshine, minor age/gap story between a nanny, Scott and his employer, Luke. Scott is down on his luck and takes the opportunity to become the nanny for grumpy workaholic, Luke, who cannot keep his eyes Scott. At first Luke is annoyed at how natural a caregiver Scott is, but his annoyance immediately transcends to something else.
One of my favorite aspects of the V&V series is the minimal angst and high comfort level reads these stories provide. This story was such a delightful read that I loved every interaction between Scott and Luke. They are so perfect for one another and seeing their relationship develop was such a treat. Another fantastic entry in this series!
Unmanageable is a fantastic grumpy/sunshine, minor age/gap story between a nanny, Scott and his employer, Luke. Scott is down on his luck and takes the opportunity to become the nanny for grumpy workaholic, Luke, who cannot keep his eyes Scott. At first Luke is annoyed at how natural a caregiver Scott is, but his annoyance immediately transcends to something else.
One of my favorite aspects of the V&V series is the minimal angst and high comfort level reads these stories provide. This story was such a delightful read that I loved every interaction between Scott and Luke. They are so perfect for one another and seeing their relationship develop was such a treat. Another fantastic entry in this series!
November 8, 2022
I need to find more nanny/boss books because this book made me realize how much I love them. Loved this book, a very sweet and enjoyable read.
But side note- this series needs to have a character summary or glossary included. There are 18 books in the first series and 6 in this one, how do they expect me to remember all the previous couples and all the employees at V&V
But side note- this series needs to have a character summary or glossary included. There are 18 books in the first series and 6 in this one, how do they expect me to remember all the previous couples and all the employees at V&V
September 13, 2022
3,5 ⭐️ rounded up
This was a sweet, low angst romance. An age-gap story with an employer-employee, grumpy-sunshine romance in the mix.
Scott is a romantic, whether he’s realistic or not, he wants someone who loves him wholeheartedly, someone who sweeps him off his feet, who wines and dines him and loves to make him swoon over declarations of love.
Unfortunately he hasn’t found THE ONE yet, and after his last disastrous break up he starts to doubt if he’ll ever have what he longs for.
When he meets Luke, a divorced father who hires him to be a temporary nanny for his daughter, he’s in desperate need of a job and a place to live, and when these problems seem to be solved, he allows himself to see Luke for what he is: a handsome gay man who seems to have everything he needs - except he doesn’t seem to be the romantic kind. And besides, he shouldn’t start having certain feelings for his boss anyway, should he?
Leslie McAdam wrote this lovely romantic story about these two men who find love and comfort when they least expect it. My only complaint is that it felt too much as insta love to me, and that’s a trope I really don’t like. But looking beyond that, this is just a well written, sweet and low angst addition to the new Vino&Veritas series, In Vino Veritas. It feels so good to be back in Vermont and the wine bar, annex bookshop!
I kindly received an ARC through Heart Eyes Press and this is my honest, voluntary review
This was a sweet, low angst romance. An age-gap story with an employer-employee, grumpy-sunshine romance in the mix.
Scott is a romantic, whether he’s realistic or not, he wants someone who loves him wholeheartedly, someone who sweeps him off his feet, who wines and dines him and loves to make him swoon over declarations of love.
Unfortunately he hasn’t found THE ONE yet, and after his last disastrous break up he starts to doubt if he’ll ever have what he longs for.
When he meets Luke, a divorced father who hires him to be a temporary nanny for his daughter, he’s in desperate need of a job and a place to live, and when these problems seem to be solved, he allows himself to see Luke for what he is: a handsome gay man who seems to have everything he needs - except he doesn’t seem to be the romantic kind. And besides, he shouldn’t start having certain feelings for his boss anyway, should he?
Leslie McAdam wrote this lovely romantic story about these two men who find love and comfort when they least expect it. My only complaint is that it felt too much as insta love to me, and that’s a trope I really don’t like. But looking beyond that, this is just a well written, sweet and low angst addition to the new Vino&Veritas series, In Vino Veritas. It feels so good to be back in Vermont and the wine bar, annex bookshop!
I kindly received an ARC through Heart Eyes Press and this is my honest, voluntary review
April 17, 2025
I loved this book so much. I can’t believe it’s been sitting on TBR list forever. On top of that I’ve discovered a new author, and I can’t wait to read more of her books.
Luke and Scott were so wonderful together. I loved little Addison even if I thought she often seemed too knowledgeable for her age. I didn’t let that bother me at all. This story was so full of wonderful feelings. I cried happy tears so many times. Two lost souls who find each other is just so beautiful.
Luke and Scott were so wonderful together. I loved little Addison even if I thought she often seemed too knowledgeable for her age. I didn’t let that bother me at all. This story was so full of wonderful feelings. I cried happy tears so many times. Two lost souls who find each other is just so beautiful.
August 30, 2022
I loved this book so hard! It's a joyous read, very little angsting, no manufactured drama, just two men falling in love and making a family.
It stars Scott, who was one of Murphy's possible dates back in Undone and who we last saw getting drunk with Jeremy in Counterpoint, and older single dad Luke and it's swoony and steamy and made my heart happy.
The setting takes us mostly out of V&V for this one as Scott takes the job as live in manny for Luke.
Luke's daughter Addie is beautifully portrayed too, not too smart for her age, not too babyish, I fell for her just as much as I did her gruff but secretly marshmallowy dad.
With a deft hand, Leslie takes the reader through Scott's embarrassing "break-up" with the guy he's seeing at the start of the book, through a strong friendship with Luke, as his love for life and pure innocence reminds the older man of what he used to be like before his marriage failed, and into a lifetime of happiness.
There wasn't a bit of this narrative I didn't like, even the "Third Act" tension point, which comes pretty late in the book, makes perfect sense.
Luke is running scared, so he inadvertently causes Scott to doubt himself and worry if he's really in love or just imagining things with his romantic wishful thinking.
Fortunately, this isn't left to stew and there's an incredibly satisfying set up to the reunion and happy ending which had me smiling big time.
Throw in a lovely Epilogue and this book pops under Garrett's as my second favourite so far!
#ARC kindly received from the author via Sarina Bowen's Heart Eyes Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It stars Scott, who was one of Murphy's possible dates back in Undone and who we last saw getting drunk with Jeremy in Counterpoint, and older single dad Luke and it's swoony and steamy and made my heart happy.
The setting takes us mostly out of V&V for this one as Scott takes the job as live in manny for Luke.
Luke's daughter Addie is beautifully portrayed too, not too smart for her age, not too babyish, I fell for her just as much as I did her gruff but secretly marshmallowy dad.
With a deft hand, Leslie takes the reader through Scott's embarrassing "break-up" with the guy he's seeing at the start of the book, through a strong friendship with Luke, as his love for life and pure innocence reminds the older man of what he used to be like before his marriage failed, and into a lifetime of happiness.
There wasn't a bit of this narrative I didn't like, even the "Third Act" tension point, which comes pretty late in the book, makes perfect sense.
Luke is running scared, so he inadvertently causes Scott to doubt himself and worry if he's really in love or just imagining things with his romantic wishful thinking.
Fortunately, this isn't left to stew and there's an incredibly satisfying set up to the reunion and happy ending which had me smiling big time.
Throw in a lovely Epilogue and this book pops under Garrett's as my second favourite so far!
#ARC kindly received from the author via Sarina Bowen's Heart Eyes Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 10, 2022
3.5 stars
Rounded up because of the narration.
This was a very fun read, made even more so imo by the narration of the dynamic duo: Teddy Hamilton and Jacob Morgan.
I appreciated this book for what it was: low angst, sexy and sweet with no miscommunication or the unnecessary breakup-makeup formula.
I sailed through the audio, the narration was of course on point from these two narrators.
My only niggle was that it was a bit too insta-lovey for me. I wanted more tome to have passes before they acted on their attraction.
I also didn't like that the best insight in the emd came from Luke's ex wife. He's old enough to make his own decisions.
Rounded up because of the narration.
This was a very fun read, made even more so imo by the narration of the dynamic duo: Teddy Hamilton and Jacob Morgan.
I appreciated this book for what it was: low angst, sexy and sweet with no miscommunication or the unnecessary breakup-makeup formula.
I sailed through the audio, the narration was of course on point from these two narrators.
My only niggle was that it was a bit too insta-lovey for me. I wanted more tome to have passes before they acted on their attraction.
I also didn't like that the best insight in the emd came from Luke's ex wife. He's old enough to make his own decisions.
September 13, 2022
Grumpy sunshine is able to improve my day
October 25, 2022
4 "Scott is amusing me" look stars
It was very enjoyable and endearing. It got super cheesy near the end - even more than before - so be ready for the truckloads of sweetness!
It was very enjoyable and endearing. It got super cheesy near the end - even more than before - so be ready for the truckloads of sweetness!
September 14, 2022
3 stars
I liked the beginning more, but once they started the relationship it kinda went downhill… hahaha I started not caring and they were too instalove in a way and I didn’t love it 😂😂
And Jacob Morgan wasn’t my favorite.. he made Scott sound childlike sometimes and I didn’t love his voice for Addi. But Teddy Hamilton was great haha
Overall not my favorite book I’ve ever read 😂
I liked the beginning more, but once they started the relationship it kinda went downhill… hahaha I started not caring and they were too instalove in a way and I didn’t love it 😂😂
And Jacob Morgan wasn’t my favorite.. he made Scott sound childlike sometimes and I didn’t love his voice for Addi. But Teddy Hamilton was great haha
Overall not my favorite book I’ve ever read 😂
October 10, 2022
Ok, this was super cheesy ott, and usually I hate that because I get really bad second hand embarrassment, BUT it worked because that's just who Scott is.
Would have liked there to be a bit more in the build up to big steps because it seemed to go from 'no we cant do this' to getting naked almost in the next breath etc.
Would have liked there to be a bit more in the build up to big steps because it seemed to go from 'no we cant do this' to getting naked almost in the next breath etc.
September 17, 2022
since when do i love the parent/nanny trope?
idk but i’m HERE for it.
i honestly enjoyed this so much.
scott is such a cute cinnamon roll that just wants to be loved and luke pretends to be grumpy when he’s literally the most romantic cutie pie ever. i know, it sounds amazing.
the book was a bit plain after the 60% mark but it honestly made up for it with the “grand gesture”. i usually hate them, but here? here i loved it so much.
idk but i’m HERE for it.
i honestly enjoyed this so much.
scott is such a cute cinnamon roll that just wants to be loved and luke pretends to be grumpy when he’s literally the most romantic cutie pie ever. i know, it sounds amazing.
the book was a bit plain after the 60% mark but it honestly made up for it with the “grand gesture”. i usually hate them, but here? here i loved it so much.
September 18, 2022
I have read a couple of Leslie McAdam's books in the past and I really enjoyed them, so I was very excited to pick up this book. And ultimately, I think that it was my downfall, I probably was just too excited for the book to be able to deliver as much as I wanted it, but that’s totally on me and we will come back to it later, as I still really enjoyed a lot of things about this book I want to discuss first.
“He was affectionate with you, and he respected your opinions. He seemed to be entertained by you, and he always made sure you were taken care of. It looked like more than sex to me. How do you know he isn’t in love with you?”
Brief Summary
Scott broke up with his boyfriend because he was getting cheated on, he is alone and really wants to find someone who will cherish him, he is very much a hopeless romantic. He meets Luke. Luke needs someone to babysit his kid and Scott applies for the job. Luke is very jaded and cynical and he doesn’t have much hope in life or love. Somehow, they end up falling in love.
Scott is one of those shy and awkward main characters who doesn't always know what to do in social situations, which are my favourite characters to read about. Because I can just really relate to them. And it was the case for Scott, his every action reminded me of myself and I really enjoyed reading about him because of that. Scott was just such a sweet character. He just wanted someone to love him and be there for him. And if that isn’t the most relatable thing in the world then I don’t know what is. I just really could see myself in Scott and in his actions and wishes and that’s probably why I loved him so much, he was just such a good main character. I prefer my main characters when I can relate to them and I’m glad it was the case here.
I must admit that I had a harder time liking Luke as a character. He was more of a grump, which is normally absolutely love, but I just couldn’t see myself in him as much as I did in Scott. He was a totally fine character, but I was just so love in with Scott as a character that it overshadowed everything for me.
If you know me, you know that my favourite dynamic between characters is grumpy/sunshine, so I had an absolute blast reading about it in this book. I just loved how they played off each other. They were super different from each other, but they worked so well together. They seemed like such an unlikely couple, with Scott being such a hopeless romantic and Luke being more jaded and not really wanting to be in love. But somehow the pair worked for me, and I had a lot of fun reading their dynamic and seeing how they balance out each other.
I really liked the romance in this one. I liked how Luke was warier and not really into the whole idea of falling in love, while Scott was all in and that's all he wanted. It made for a super fun dynamic to read and I loved reading about their push and pull until they got together, it was just so much fun to me. And Luke and Scott were a very wonderful couple who really worked well together and they were a lot of fun to read.
Also, a special shoutout to Addi, Luke's daughter who was just so sweet and precious, I really loved her character.
Unfortunately, I think that I went into this book too excited to read it and convinced that I would enjoy that it somehow was my own downfall. I did enjoy reading this book, but it just didn’t really connect with me, not as much as I wanted to. I just had the hardest time really getting invested in this book. And I cannot really explain why, I really enjoyed the dynamic and the romance in this one, but somehow it just wasn’t enough to keep my full attention.
Also, this book took on a lot of heavier themes that I really enjoyed but I felt like they were explored on too much of a surface level, I just wanted them to be explored in more detail because I was curious about them and I felt like what I got wasn't enough to satisfy me.
This book was such a good concept. I really enjoyed the premise and the couple in this one. It was just such a good idea and it really worked for me. Also, this book was super sweet and that's always a very good bonus point for me.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
“He was affectionate with you, and he respected your opinions. He seemed to be entertained by you, and he always made sure you were taken care of. It looked like more than sex to me. How do you know he isn’t in love with you?”
Brief Summary
Scott broke up with his boyfriend because he was getting cheated on, he is alone and really wants to find someone who will cherish him, he is very much a hopeless romantic. He meets Luke. Luke needs someone to babysit his kid and Scott applies for the job. Luke is very jaded and cynical and he doesn’t have much hope in life or love. Somehow, they end up falling in love.
Scott is one of those shy and awkward main characters who doesn't always know what to do in social situations, which are my favourite characters to read about. Because I can just really relate to them. And it was the case for Scott, his every action reminded me of myself and I really enjoyed reading about him because of that. Scott was just such a sweet character. He just wanted someone to love him and be there for him. And if that isn’t the most relatable thing in the world then I don’t know what is. I just really could see myself in Scott and in his actions and wishes and that’s probably why I loved him so much, he was just such a good main character. I prefer my main characters when I can relate to them and I’m glad it was the case here.
I must admit that I had a harder time liking Luke as a character. He was more of a grump, which is normally absolutely love, but I just couldn’t see myself in him as much as I did in Scott. He was a totally fine character, but I was just so love in with Scott as a character that it overshadowed everything for me.
If you know me, you know that my favourite dynamic between characters is grumpy/sunshine, so I had an absolute blast reading about it in this book. I just loved how they played off each other. They were super different from each other, but they worked so well together. They seemed like such an unlikely couple, with Scott being such a hopeless romantic and Luke being more jaded and not really wanting to be in love. But somehow the pair worked for me, and I had a lot of fun reading their dynamic and seeing how they balance out each other.
I really liked the romance in this one. I liked how Luke was warier and not really into the whole idea of falling in love, while Scott was all in and that's all he wanted. It made for a super fun dynamic to read and I loved reading about their push and pull until they got together, it was just so much fun to me. And Luke and Scott were a very wonderful couple who really worked well together and they were a lot of fun to read.
Also, a special shoutout to Addi, Luke's daughter who was just so sweet and precious, I really loved her character.
Unfortunately, I think that I went into this book too excited to read it and convinced that I would enjoy that it somehow was my own downfall. I did enjoy reading this book, but it just didn’t really connect with me, not as much as I wanted to. I just had the hardest time really getting invested in this book. And I cannot really explain why, I really enjoyed the dynamic and the romance in this one, but somehow it just wasn’t enough to keep my full attention.
Also, this book took on a lot of heavier themes that I really enjoyed but I felt like they were explored on too much of a surface level, I just wanted them to be explored in more detail because I was curious about them and I felt like what I got wasn't enough to satisfy me.
This book was such a good concept. I really enjoyed the premise and the couple in this one. It was just such a good idea and it really worked for me. Also, this book was super sweet and that's always a very good bonus point for me.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
September 8, 2022
This one very romantic romance!!
The third book in the In Vino Veritas series, and in my book is equally as amazing as the first two. No joke, I absolutely love this series, and Leslie has pulled off an excellent addition.
I loved the push and pull of an age difference, boss and employee, and grumpy / sunshine. So many differences that made this relationship so wonderful. They each brought something(s) missing to the table.
Scott brought fun, living for the moment, and a fresh outlook, while Luke provided safety and security, and brought them down to earth from time to time.
It was a really beautiful opposite attracts that reminds us that though it’s important to live in the real world, it should always include love and laughter.
The third book in the In Vino Veritas series, and in my book is equally as amazing as the first two. No joke, I absolutely love this series, and Leslie has pulled off an excellent addition.
I loved the push and pull of an age difference, boss and employee, and grumpy / sunshine. So many differences that made this relationship so wonderful. They each brought something(s) missing to the table.
Scott brought fun, living for the moment, and a fresh outlook, while Luke provided safety and security, and brought them down to earth from time to time.
It was a really beautiful opposite attracts that reminds us that though it’s important to live in the real world, it should always include love and laughter.
September 13, 2022
4.5 🌟's
Two of my favorite tropes – grumpy/sunshine and age-gap.
I really enjoyed Scott and Luke’s story.
Yoh, these two were such a mess in the beginning - with Scott unable to control his finances and Luke having no idea how to manage his own daughter – so to follow them on their journey to overcoming past failures and becoming the best version of themselves felt tremendously satisfying.
Their passion and chemistry sizzled – they were just so hot together…🔥♨️
I totally loved the lock and key part…so frikkin sexy …🔒&🗝️
The romance here was absolutely swoon-worthy and I loved the idea of that little scavenger hunt.
Scott was so amazing with Addison and I completely adored that.
The series seems to be great so far, so I’ll definitely be going in for more…💙💙
Two of my favorite tropes – grumpy/sunshine and age-gap.
I really enjoyed Scott and Luke’s story.
Yoh, these two were such a mess in the beginning - with Scott unable to control his finances and Luke having no idea how to manage his own daughter – so to follow them on their journey to overcoming past failures and becoming the best version of themselves felt tremendously satisfying.
Their passion and chemistry sizzled – they were just so hot together…🔥♨️
I totally loved the lock and key part…so frikkin sexy …🔒&🗝️
The romance here was absolutely swoon-worthy and I loved the idea of that little scavenger hunt.
Scott was so amazing with Addison and I completely adored that.
The series seems to be great so far, so I’ll definitely be going in for more…💙💙
September 15, 2022
When people write reviews about character development, I usually yawn and inspect my nails because blah, blah blah I ain’t got time for that nonsense. But here I am sitting on my high horse saying oooooh the character arcs in this book are so good.
Check out my sweet little Scotty who falls in lust and thinks he’s in love and then keeps trying to show affection like a bouncy puppy. Watch him fly high and be all mature and sensible.
Luke thinks he isn’t relationship material. He didn’t even fight for custody of his beautiful daughter Addison because he thought it was better that way. My favourite thing in books is dads and daughters because I’m an only girl who had a lovely dad and I wish I had spent more time with him. We did have lovely days though. Digging and planting and harvesting his allotment. Cheese sandwiches for lunch. Friday trips in his waggon to York. I miss my dad.
Scott and Luke are like chalk and cheese but they are perfect together. The way Scott just loves Addi is like the gooiest chocolate brownie with ice cream and salted caramel sauce on; it is utterly delicious. Scott sets the bar of nanny goals. Adventures in forests, hot air balloon rides and pretend hair dressers. I want Scott to be my nanny.
If endings can be perfect, then this ending is perfect plus five billionty.
P.S. In the last week I have read two books with characters called Lucas and both get called Luke. I don’t get it. I have a Lucas and he is never called Luke by anyone because Luke is a completely different name in its own right. I sometimes call him Lukey or Lukey Loo but never Luke. I did a poll of 5 people and they all agreed with me.
Check out my sweet little Scotty who falls in lust and thinks he’s in love and then keeps trying to show affection like a bouncy puppy. Watch him fly high and be all mature and sensible.
Luke thinks he isn’t relationship material. He didn’t even fight for custody of his beautiful daughter Addison because he thought it was better that way. My favourite thing in books is dads and daughters because I’m an only girl who had a lovely dad and I wish I had spent more time with him. We did have lovely days though. Digging and planting and harvesting his allotment. Cheese sandwiches for lunch. Friday trips in his waggon to York. I miss my dad.
Scott and Luke are like chalk and cheese but they are perfect together. The way Scott just loves Addi is like the gooiest chocolate brownie with ice cream and salted caramel sauce on; it is utterly delicious. Scott sets the bar of nanny goals. Adventures in forests, hot air balloon rides and pretend hair dressers. I want Scott to be my nanny.
If endings can be perfect, then this ending is perfect plus five billionty.
P.S. In the last week I have read two books with characters called Lucas and both get called Luke. I don’t get it. I have a Lucas and he is never called Luke by anyone because Luke is a completely different name in its own right. I sometimes call him Lukey or Lukey Loo but never Luke. I did a poll of 5 people and they all agreed with me.
September 14, 2022
I love a good romantic romance journey and Unmanageable rocked my romantic heart to its core! So absolutely adorbs I just cannot express! I loved both Luke and Scott’s characters so much. They were different, on the surface, but if you dig a little bit, they’re two perfectly fit puzzle pieces that belong together! They balanced each other out and their story was a huge *happy sigh* for me!
After I finished reading this book, I went on a bit of a stalking spree to find out if there were any other Leslie McAdam stories lurking around I could devour because I just don’t think I’ve read enough by her and she makes me happy every time I read her work! I found four. Btw, and I am giddy with excitement! LOL
I not only highly recommend Leslie as an author, but also this entire World of True North that Sarina Bowen has opened up to various authors because there’s a little bit of everything and I am positive everyone will find at least one or two stories n there that will please them!
PURCHASE HERE: https://geni.us/Unmanageable-amz
After I finished reading this book, I went on a bit of a stalking spree to find out if there were any other Leslie McAdam stories lurking around I could devour because I just don’t think I’ve read enough by her and she makes me happy every time I read her work! I found four. Btw, and I am giddy with excitement! LOL
I not only highly recommend Leslie as an author, but also this entire World of True North that Sarina Bowen has opened up to various authors because there’s a little bit of everything and I am positive everyone will find at least one or two stories n there that will please them!
PURCHASE HERE: https://geni.us/Unmanageable-amz
October 2, 2022
I had a hard time with the first part of this and I’m not 100% why. Scott’s energy was infectious and Luke was a sexy grump. This had grumpy/sunshine and age gape lol high is usually a total win for me. This was insta-attraction, but I think the paving wasn’t working for me—like it just seemed in fast forward. And Luke’s affection kinda happened quickly for him being so opposed to love and relationships.
BUT THEN! I was totally invested at 50% and I don’t even know how I got there, but then there were feels and tears and my heart ached but was also so full. So. In the end, this was a super cute read about a man who loves love and romance, but has never found it and a man who thought his failed marriage was proof he was bad at relationships, but found love with each other.
Definitely sooo much better than the last book in this series from this author.
BUT THEN! I was totally invested at 50% and I don’t even know how I got there, but then there were feels and tears and my heart ached but was also so full. So. In the end, this was a super cute read about a man who loves love and romance, but has never found it and a man who thought his failed marriage was proof he was bad at relationships, but found love with each other.
Definitely sooo much better than the last book in this series from this author.
September 14, 2022
This age gap, employer/employee romance ticked all the boxes for me. I love a good balanced age-gap romance that shows the flip side of both characters POV. I loved our main characters Luke and Scott and their Grumpy/Sunshine personalities, that brought some real laughter to this book. I really felt these two characters brought a genuine vulnerability out of eachother but also offered the comfort they both needed at times. I loved this book and this whole series so far has been delightful easy read with realistic characters and circumstances.
September 8, 2022
Luke moves back to Vermont from NYC to care for his daughter while his ex wife is on assignment over seas. Luke quickly finds that caring for Addison and working full time is too much. Luke hires Scott as a live in nanny. Luke never plans to be in a relationship again. All Scott dreams about is romance and love. These two have a lot to teach each other. Such a fun read watching them find their way to one another!
January 25, 2024
2.5 rounded down
Formulaic but hot/sweet.
All the tropes plus kid.
Formulaic but hot/sweet.
All the tropes plus kid.
September 13, 2022
Scott and Luke is grumpy sunshine hotness, throw in boss/manny and you have a cute steamy romance in Vermont.
We see Luke thaw as Scott fits almost seamlessly into his life.
And well the romantic moments abound...the balloon.. yes!!
We see Luke thaw as Scott fits almost seamlessly into his life.
And well the romantic moments abound...the balloon.. yes!!
January 6, 2023
Employer and employee get busy !
Scott, 23, tall and thin, light brown hair
with dark underneath, tattoos, is fresh from a breakup and needs a job. He's friends with the Vino & Veritas group of guys.
Luke, 36, tall and muscled, dark hair,
touch of silver, divorced from his wife, with shared custody of Addi, 6.
His wife has a journalist story to work, so, Luke will take care of her. Then he needs someone fast to watch her during the day.
Scott and Addi get along in the first few minutes, plus the men have conversations, meals, the proximity of course affects them both. They hold back on the attraction, but it's strong.
As weeks go by, Scott is amazing with Addi. He teaches her survival hiking, flower arrangements and more.
Scott and Luke begin their sexy times slowly and carefully, and later they are in-over-their-heads and in love. Both are afraid to say it out loud. It's complicated.
Scott brings sunshine into every life he touches, and Luke is discovering his real self.
Luke and Addi meet Scott's huge, loud family and we enjoy the fun they have.
This is sweet, funny, revealing, and life changing for our guys. Then there is an injury and an unlikely hero.
ENJOY !
=====
Scott, 23, tall and thin, light brown hair
with dark underneath, tattoos, is fresh from a breakup and needs a job. He's friends with the Vino & Veritas group of guys.
Luke, 36, tall and muscled, dark hair,
touch of silver, divorced from his wife, with shared custody of Addi, 6.
His wife has a journalist story to work, so, Luke will take care of her. Then he needs someone fast to watch her during the day.
Scott and Addi get along in the first few minutes, plus the men have conversations, meals, the proximity of course affects them both. They hold back on the attraction, but it's strong.
As weeks go by, Scott is amazing with Addi. He teaches her survival hiking, flower arrangements and more.
Scott and Luke begin their sexy times slowly and carefully, and later they are in-over-their-heads and in love. Both are afraid to say it out loud. It's complicated.
Scott brings sunshine into every life he touches, and Luke is discovering his real self.
Luke and Addi meet Scott's huge, loud family and we enjoy the fun they have.
This is sweet, funny, revealing, and life changing for our guys. Then there is an injury and an unlikely hero.
ENJOY !
=====
dnf
April 7, 2023DNF.
I really wanted to like this but I’m not feeling the characters.
Scott starts the story off by thinking he has a boyfriend but this “boyfriend” had told him he wanted a break, and they apparently weren’t even exclusive so I guess Scott is delusional. He’s looking for love but I guess he’s not that bright? Tho he is with a lot of other things 🤔
And then there’s Luke having sex with a random hook up in a bathroom ? Even tho he’s not happy about the hook up calling him “ Daddy” but he goes through with it cos he just “ needs to be touched”
Soooo. Again, not a fan of the first sex in the book being with one of the MCs and a random hook up. 🤷🏻♀️
Scott’s dad is trying to get Scott a date, Dennis thinks he’s cute and texts him wanting to go on a date with him. Now that’s something I’d want to read, two characters who are looking for a partner. I’m really getting burnt out by these lust turns into more type thing, where is the damn romance 😭
Time of death: 45%
That’s with skimming and putting the book down several times cos it just wasn’t holding my attention.
I really wanted to like this but I’m not feeling the characters.
Scott starts the story off by thinking he has a boyfriend but this “boyfriend” had told him he wanted a break, and they apparently weren’t even exclusive so I guess Scott is delusional. He’s looking for love but I guess he’s not that bright? Tho he is with a lot of other things 🤔
And then there’s Luke having sex with a random hook up in a bathroom ? Even tho he’s not happy about the hook up calling him “ Daddy” but he goes through with it cos he just “ needs to be touched”
Soooo. Again, not a fan of the first sex in the book being with one of the MCs and a random hook up. 🤷🏻♀️
Scott’s dad is trying to get Scott a date, Dennis thinks he’s cute and texts him wanting to go on a date with him. Now that’s something I’d want to read, two characters who are looking for a partner. I’m really getting burnt out by these lust turns into more type thing, where is the damn romance 😭
Time of death: 45%
That’s with skimming and putting the book down several times cos it just wasn’t holding my attention.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2022
Absolutely gorgeous.
Luke and Scott's story was marvelous.
There was something fundamentally loveable about them both, despite them being so different. Or maybe because of it.
Luke's grumpiness to Scott's sunshine-ness was endearing.
People say that opposites attract, but it was way more than attraction. Their differences made them enticing and brought out the best the other had to offer.
Luke and Scott beautifully aligned and they grew together, learning from each other, with no competition, with no misleading idea that one was better than the other.
They were simply different and that made their relationship balanced and strong. They became better people because of it, for each other, and for themselves.
And if that wasn't enough, their chemistry was crazy hot.
This book was sexy as heck.
It's been a few days since I've read this book, yet I can't think about it without smiling and feeling my heart getting warm.
Luke and Scott's story was marvelous.
There was something fundamentally loveable about them both, despite them being so different. Or maybe because of it.
Luke's grumpiness to Scott's sunshine-ness was endearing.
People say that opposites attract, but it was way more than attraction. Their differences made them enticing and brought out the best the other had to offer.
Luke and Scott beautifully aligned and they grew together, learning from each other, with no competition, with no misleading idea that one was better than the other.
They were simply different and that made their relationship balanced and strong. They became better people because of it, for each other, and for themselves.
And if that wasn't enough, their chemistry was crazy hot.
This book was sexy as heck.
It's been a few days since I've read this book, yet I can't think about it without smiling and feeling my heart getting warm.
August 29, 2022
Thank you Leslie McAdam for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
I was so excited to read this book. I freaking loved Scott! He was so adorable. Also I got to see my favorite couple Murph and Jason. I loved the development of the friendship of Murph and Scott. Jeremy was also so amazing! Their friendship was so good. Especially I loved their gc.
Luke was grumpy and I fucking loved that. His insecurities were represented so well. His daughter Addi was so cute. And I'm so glad his ex wife was so supportive of their relationship.
Like we’re evenly matched, but I’m going to dominate him. Wait. No.
No one is dominating anyone. He’s my daughter’s nanny.
Cute 😁
I fucking loved the grand gesture Luke made for Scott. Also I'm glad there was not so much miscommunication. Their chemistry was so hot.
Leslie McAdam has became my favorite author 😍
Check out all my book edits over at Instagram
I was so excited to read this book. I freaking loved Scott! He was so adorable. Also I got to see my favorite couple Murph and Jason. I loved the development of the friendship of Murph and Scott. Jeremy was also so amazing! Their friendship was so good. Especially I loved their gc.
Luke was grumpy and I fucking loved that. His insecurities were represented so well. His daughter Addi was so cute. And I'm so glad his ex wife was so supportive of their relationship.
Like we’re evenly matched, but I’m going to dominate him. Wait. No.
No one is dominating anyone. He’s my daughter’s nanny.
Cute 😁
I fucking loved the grand gesture Luke made for Scott. Also I'm glad there was not so much miscommunication. Their chemistry was so hot.
Leslie McAdam has became my favorite author 😍
Check out all my book edits over at Instagram
August 29, 2022
I adored Luke and Scott. There is something about each of them that is intrinsically lovable. One is a gruff single dad struggling to balance his responsibilities when his ex-wife takes an assignment overseas. The other is a born romantic with his head perpetually in the clouds. They each sort of think they’re flawed in different ways, but their flaws align in complimentary ways. It just takes readjusting their vision to see it. When you mix in one sweet child, this was bound to be a winner, and I couldn’t get enough… Add in cameos by some V&V favorites and I’m sold!
September 25, 2022
Not the best single dad-nanny story I've read, but not the worst either. There was a lot of telling instead of showing, that was maybe why I couldn't feel the chemistry between the Mcs. Very predictable, hence a little boring.
September 17, 2022
Such a great book by Leslie McAdams! The manny to lovers trope has been hit and miss for me in the past but I really loved this one. The chemistry is perfect and I loved how much Luke grows as both a partner and a father. His daughter is adorable as well. Definitely on my reread list!
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