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Single Dads #5
Listen
Voleva solo fare in modo che la nuova figlia adottiva si sentisse a casa, non aveva mai pensato di potersi innamorare dell’uomo che avrebbe potuto portargliela via.
Nick e suo marito avevano sempre desiderato una famiglia numerosa, ma quando il cancro si è portato via Danny sei anni prima, Nick è rimasto da solo con i tre figli. Non avrebbe mai pensato che il suo cuore spezzato potesse guarire al punto di fargli desiderare di aggiungere un nuovo membro alla sua famiglia, ma quando conosce Teegan capisce subito di volerla adottare. Nata sorda, la bambina è già stata rifiutata due volte durante il processo di adozione e non ha ancora trovato un posto da chiamare per sempre casa. Nick vuole essere il suo papà eroe e costruirle attorno un mondo dove possa essere al sicuro e felice. Sa che vuole rendere la sua vita perfetta, ma non capisce come farlo, e neppure se questa sia la cosa migliore per la sua famiglia. Quando cerca aiuto e conosce Elliot, non ci mette niente a innamorarsi del frustrante, sexy, intelligente e affettuoso professore.
Elliot non se la sente di aiutare l’uomo che sembra più interessato al giudizio dell’opinione pubblica che ai bisogni dei suoi figli, e quando apprende che Nick, ricco e privilegiato, vuole adottare una bambina sorda, sa che è la scelta sbagliata e decide di scendere in campo. Essendo figlio di genitori sordi, chi meglio di lui può proteggere la piccola Teegan, magari anche intervenendo per bloccare l’adozione, nel caso dovesse ritenerlo necessario? Niente e nessuno potrà fargli cambiare idea, neppure l’amore.
Questa storia dei papà single parla di un vedovo che ha difficoltà a fare la cosa giusta, un insegnate che si batte per la felicità di un’adorabile bambina, tre fratelli affettuosi e una casa con vista sull’oceano.
Nick e suo marito avevano sempre desiderato una famiglia numerosa, ma quando il cancro si è portato via Danny sei anni prima, Nick è rimasto da solo con i tre figli. Non avrebbe mai pensato che il suo cuore spezzato potesse guarire al punto di fargli desiderare di aggiungere un nuovo membro alla sua famiglia, ma quando conosce Teegan capisce subito di volerla adottare. Nata sorda, la bambina è già stata rifiutata due volte durante il processo di adozione e non ha ancora trovato un posto da chiamare per sempre casa. Nick vuole essere il suo papà eroe e costruirle attorno un mondo dove possa essere al sicuro e felice. Sa che vuole rendere la sua vita perfetta, ma non capisce come farlo, e neppure se questa sia la cosa migliore per la sua famiglia. Quando cerca aiuto e conosce Elliot, non ci mette niente a innamorarsi del frustrante, sexy, intelligente e affettuoso professore.
Elliot non se la sente di aiutare l’uomo che sembra più interessato al giudizio dell’opinione pubblica che ai bisogni dei suoi figli, e quando apprende che Nick, ricco e privilegiato, vuole adottare una bambina sorda, sa che è la scelta sbagliata e decide di scendere in campo. Essendo figlio di genitori sordi, chi meglio di lui può proteggere la piccola Teegan, magari anche intervenendo per bloccare l’adozione, nel caso dovesse ritenerlo necessario? Niente e nessuno potrà fargli cambiare idea, neppure l’amore.
Questa storia dei papà single parla di un vedovo che ha difficoltà a fare la cosa giusta, un insegnate che si batte per la felicità di un’adorabile bambina, tre fratelli affettuosi e una casa con vista sull’oceano.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2022
About the author
R.J. Scott
331 books2,743 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
March 5, 2022
RJ's Single Dads series is definitely one of my favourites from her and finally getting Nick's story was just as great as I'd hoped it would be.
There's some angst, all the feels, and a really lovely kinda "enemies to friends to lovers" narrative which is rooted firmly in good intentions for the sweetest of little girls.
We don't get to see much of the characters from the other books, apart from Cameron and Adam, and we get a bit more from Grey, whose book will round out the series and for which I'm seriously dying to read!
I liked best the way this story just gently unfolded without much in the way of drama apart from the opening Prologue which sets up all the tension. It's a really gentle romance which shows how first impressions can be wrong, how people can own their mistakes and how a family can grow and adapt to bring love to more members.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
There's some angst, all the feels, and a really lovely kinda "enemies to friends to lovers" narrative which is rooted firmly in good intentions for the sweetest of little girls.
We don't get to see much of the characters from the other books, apart from Cameron and Adam, and we get a bit more from Grey, whose book will round out the series and for which I'm seriously dying to read!
I liked best the way this story just gently unfolded without much in the way of drama apart from the opening Prologue which sets up all the tension. It's a really gentle romance which shows how first impressions can be wrong, how people can own their mistakes and how a family can grow and adapt to bring love to more members.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
March 6, 2022
Ohmygosh, Scott burrowed deep into my heart with this one. The story of Nick and his kids is so sweet — and little Teegan is amazing. But, add in Elliot with his unique skill-set and these two men finally have something to talk about. As barriers come down, their romance is so beautiful. Elliot also has to get over the fact that Nick has money . . . but once he does, sparks fly. Nick’s grief over the loss of his husband Danny is also handled sensitively, as his spiralling bouts of anxiety.
As expected, Scott’s child and animal characters are beautifully crafted and easy to love. Elliot was a little harder to warm up to, knowing that he wanted to sabotage the adoption. But great change is seen in both characters. Nick really grows throughout the book as he learns more about the Deaf community. Elliot changes his mind when he sees how well Teegan fits in with the family.
If you want a feel-good book that wraps around your heart like a hug, don’t hesitate to pick this one up.
As expected, Scott’s child and animal characters are beautifully crafted and easy to love. Elliot was a little harder to warm up to, knowing that he wanted to sabotage the adoption. But great change is seen in both characters. Nick really grows throughout the book as he learns more about the Deaf community. Elliot changes his mind when he sees how well Teegan fits in with the family.
If you want a feel-good book that wraps around your heart like a hug, don’t hesitate to pick this one up.
April 12, 2022
Bueno, no está mal, nada memorable, pero bonito. Sigue la línea de la serie.
March 3, 2022
The single dads series has been one of my favorites. Listen fits right in. I loved Nick from the start. He has the money a lot of romance heroes have but he isn't arrogant. He isn't one of those guys that sleep with anything that moves, assuring himself that everyone knows the score so if they get hurt, it's their problem. No, Nick pretty much takes responsibility for everyone, nearly wearing himself out. He is not perfect but his character is a welcome change to the usual formula. It took me longer to like Elliott, because he can be extremely judgemental, but I did get there in the end. This was the kind of heartfelt read I have come to expect from Scott. I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2022
I thought I was coming into this book for a easy, uncomplicated teacher/single parent romance. It is deeper thought, and I'm here for it. Even with all the things going on in previous books in this series, I think this one is the heaviest. Not just because of the themes of loss, but because it has to touch on disability and what it means to live with it. But it does so well!
April 12, 2022
This was hard to get through. Both characters were unlikeable and their transition from father/teacher to love-of-my-life was so fast I almost got whiplash. I'll write a longer review later.
March 19, 2022
a Fantastic Romance, moving and so well crafted
Rating: 5 🌈
R.J. Scott has written an beautiful, emotionally moving story, one that happens to include a romance, with her latest installment in the Single Dads series .
Listen revolves around the potential adoption of a 3 yr deaf child by investigative journalist Nick Horner. Nick, a widower and single parent to three children, is someone we meet earlier when he’s still deeply grieving the loss of his husband to cancer, and depression has his spiraling.
At that time he meets Elliot Curtis, teacher at St. Joseph’s. Nick’s actions at the time and their interactions have repercussions later on. Nick’s background , his thoughts give us a thorough perspective of the man himself. Especially when we see him together with his children. We grieve with him and connect with him.
Elliot is an amazing character. Scott has poured a huge amount of research of Deaf culture into Elliot and his family. It shows as Elliot comes across so realistically as a CODA or child of deaf adults. Many aspects of the ramifications of this are reflected in Elliott’s memories as a child, as ASL as his first language, to his feelings as being the only hearing person in his family.
This is such a remarkable element. It’s not just Elliott. It’s also Elliott’s family but most importantly it’s Teegan, the 3 year old. It’s concerning her needs , how and what a deaf child needs, develops, and what decisions she might make for herself in the future. In addition, she’s been in foster care and a victim of FASD. Teegan is a child as winning and real on the page as they come.
And none of it feels like a info dump . Indeed , it’s all folded into a fantastic book of deep love, concern for a child , and the family who wants to adopt her. It’s a joyous romance that will slowly become about two men forming a new family.
I heart this book and it’s wonderful characters so much.
Scott has a outstanding, warm-hearted story of second chances, family and love in Listen. It’s one I’ll be rereading and one I’m highly recommending!
Happy Reading!
Single Dads series:
- [ ] Single #1
- [ ] Today#2
- [ ] Promise #3
- [ ] Single Dad Christmas
- [ ] Always #4
- [ ] Listen #5
- [ ] Pride#6
Rating: 5 🌈
R.J. Scott has written an beautiful, emotionally moving story, one that happens to include a romance, with her latest installment in the Single Dads series .
Listen revolves around the potential adoption of a 3 yr deaf child by investigative journalist Nick Horner. Nick, a widower and single parent to three children, is someone we meet earlier when he’s still deeply grieving the loss of his husband to cancer, and depression has his spiraling.
At that time he meets Elliot Curtis, teacher at St. Joseph’s. Nick’s actions at the time and their interactions have repercussions later on. Nick’s background , his thoughts give us a thorough perspective of the man himself. Especially when we see him together with his children. We grieve with him and connect with him.
Elliot is an amazing character. Scott has poured a huge amount of research of Deaf culture into Elliot and his family. It shows as Elliot comes across so realistically as a CODA or child of deaf adults. Many aspects of the ramifications of this are reflected in Elliott’s memories as a child, as ASL as his first language, to his feelings as being the only hearing person in his family.
This is such a remarkable element. It’s not just Elliott. It’s also Elliott’s family but most importantly it’s Teegan, the 3 year old. It’s concerning her needs , how and what a deaf child needs, develops, and what decisions she might make for herself in the future. In addition, she’s been in foster care and a victim of FASD. Teegan is a child as winning and real on the page as they come.
And none of it feels like a info dump . Indeed , it’s all folded into a fantastic book of deep love, concern for a child , and the family who wants to adopt her. It’s a joyous romance that will slowly become about two men forming a new family.
I heart this book and it’s wonderful characters so much.
Scott has a outstanding, warm-hearted story of second chances, family and love in Listen. It’s one I’ll be rereading and one I’m highly recommending!
Happy Reading!
Single Dads series:
- [ ] Single #1
- [ ] Today#2
- [ ] Promise #3
- [ ] Single Dad Christmas
- [ ] Always #4
- [ ] Listen #5
- [ ] Pride#6
March 16, 2022
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
This book gave me all the feels. I loved Nick from the start. I felt how much the loss of his husband effected him even all these years later. The kids were adorable and Teegan was a sweet addition to the family. I understand Elliotts concerns but man. I did like watching things unfold with Nick and Elliott. There was a little drama/angst but not much and it fit the story line. This was a good Saturday afternoon read. Highly recommend.
This book gave me all the feels. I loved Nick from the start. I felt how much the loss of his husband effected him even all these years later. The kids were adorable and Teegan was a sweet addition to the family. I understand Elliotts concerns but man. I did like watching things unfold with Nick and Elliott. There was a little drama/angst but not much and it fit the story line. This was a good Saturday afternoon read. Highly recommend.
October 7, 2022
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
In questo quinto volume conosciamo il bel professore Elliot e la star delle inchieste giornalistiche Nick. I due si sono conosciuti a scuola, perché Elliot è uno degli insegnanti della figlia maggiore di Nick: una dolcissima adolescente che sta cercando di dare una mano al padre, rimasto vedovo, nella gestione della casa e dei fratellini, un compito troppo grande per la sua età.
Elliot e Nick, pur provando una forte attrazione, cominciano col piede sbagliato e Nick finisce per fare una brutta figura dietro l’altra.
Il dolore per la perdita del marito lo ha lasciato nel dolore più cupo, tanto da non accorgersi dei problemi della figlia.
Continua sul nostro blog!
In questo quinto volume conosciamo il bel professore Elliot e la star delle inchieste giornalistiche Nick. I due si sono conosciuti a scuola, perché Elliot è uno degli insegnanti della figlia maggiore di Nick: una dolcissima adolescente che sta cercando di dare una mano al padre, rimasto vedovo, nella gestione della casa e dei fratellini, un compito troppo grande per la sua età.
Elliot e Nick, pur provando una forte attrazione, cominciano col piede sbagliato e Nick finisce per fare una brutta figura dietro l’altra.
Il dolore per la perdita del marito lo ha lasciato nel dolore più cupo, tanto da non accorgersi dei problemi della figlia.
Continua sul nostro blog!
October 19, 2022
Ho già detto molte volte che le storie m/m con figli sono fra le mie preferite e questa serie è deliziosa.
Devo però ammettere che l’iniziale scontro fra i protagonisti mi è sembrato fragile e poco realistico nelle motivazioni, soprattutto l’incaponirsi di Elliot e i suoi sospetti, fatti basandosi su un solo evento che comunque aveva avuto una risoluzione corretta da parte di Nick.
Per fortuna poi i suoi dubbi assumono connotati più verosimili e comunque il suo legame con Nick si evolve e comprende la sincerità dell’uomo e la sua buona fede. È una storia molto dolce e ricca di sentimento, dove il lutto, la vedovanza, l’amore da dare e ricevere e la voglia di aiutare bambini svantaggiati e disabili ha una connotazione delicata ma coinvolgente.
Ho amato tutto di Nick e dei suoi adorabili figli. La piccola Teegan merita proprio una famiglia che la ami e coccoli. Elliot ama il suo lavoro, ci tiene ai suoi studenti e, più in generale, è un’anima sensibile e generosa, che ha toccato con mano le discriminazioni quotidiane delle persone sordomute e si adopera per rendere il mondo un posto migliore.
Ne consiglio la lettura per continuità e se cercare una storia dolce, ricca di amore e generosità.
Voto: 4+ su 5 stelle
Devo però ammettere che l’iniziale scontro fra i protagonisti mi è sembrato fragile e poco realistico nelle motivazioni, soprattutto l’incaponirsi di Elliot e i suoi sospetti, fatti basandosi su un solo evento che comunque aveva avuto una risoluzione corretta da parte di Nick.
Per fortuna poi i suoi dubbi assumono connotati più verosimili e comunque il suo legame con Nick si evolve e comprende la sincerità dell’uomo e la sua buona fede. È una storia molto dolce e ricca di sentimento, dove il lutto, la vedovanza, l’amore da dare e ricevere e la voglia di aiutare bambini svantaggiati e disabili ha una connotazione delicata ma coinvolgente.
Ho amato tutto di Nick e dei suoi adorabili figli. La piccola Teegan merita proprio una famiglia che la ami e coccoli. Elliot ama il suo lavoro, ci tiene ai suoi studenti e, più in generale, è un’anima sensibile e generosa, che ha toccato con mano le discriminazioni quotidiane delle persone sordomute e si adopera per rendere il mondo un posto migliore.
Ne consiglio la lettura per continuità e se cercare una storia dolce, ricca di amore e generosità.
Voto: 4+ su 5 stelle
September 21, 2025
This was delightful. Enjoyed it very much.
March 6, 2022
This series has been wonderful, I love the families but I believe this one might be my favorite (I say that every time lol)!! Nick is a widower with 3 kids, his grief has been deep and hard. It’s been a long road to accept that moving on, living life is okay and that his late husband wanted him to be happy!! Elliott is a teacher, a big advocate for children, and wondering if he will find the love of his life.
I think what I love about this book is how it took time for them to learn about each other and assuming things might be a mistake. For Nick having feelings for Elliott makes him feel guilty and also alive. For Elliott worrying Nick is adopting another child, one that is deaf, has him on edge. He grew up with deaf parents he knew the struggles, the concerns and he wasn’t sure Nick was prepared.
Losing your husband, dealing with the grief with your kids, adopting a little girl who is deaf, learning ASL, falling in love again is all scary and exciting. It’s a wonderful book, amazing characters, lovable kids, fantastic friends, it’s a must read for everyone!!
I think what I love about this book is how it took time for them to learn about each other and assuming things might be a mistake. For Nick having feelings for Elliott makes him feel guilty and also alive. For Elliott worrying Nick is adopting another child, one that is deaf, has him on edge. He grew up with deaf parents he knew the struggles, the concerns and he wasn’t sure Nick was prepared.
Losing your husband, dealing with the grief with your kids, adopting a little girl who is deaf, learning ASL, falling in love again is all scary and exciting. It’s a wonderful book, amazing characters, lovable kids, fantastic friends, it’s a must read for everyone!!
March 25, 2022
A great story about Nick and Elliot, even though I wanted to hit Elliot on the upside as I felt he was judging Nick before he knew what Nick was doing, but overall the sweetness between Nick and his kids towards Teegan was amazing and I am glad things worked out in the end.
This is an amazing series and I have enjoyed every book.
This is an amazing series and I have enjoyed every book.
March 18, 2022
Check out our full post for LISTEN on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Angie – ☆☆☆☆
This book gave me all the feels. I loved Nick from the start. I felt how much the loss of his husband affected him, even all these years later. The kids were adorable, and Teegan was a sweet addition to the family. I understand Elliot’s concerns, but man. I did like watching things unfold with Nick and Elliot. There was a little drama/angst, but not much and it fit the storyline. This was a good Saturday afternoon read. Highly recommend.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth book in the series and a great read. I would recommend that you read them all, as they are all really delicious, but you could always go back after indulging in this one!
Nick has been part of the Single Dads' world from the beginning, the steadying influence, the man still wearing his wedding ring, in spite of Danny having died a while ago. His intention to stick to their plan to adopt more children finds him ready to take on a lovely three-year-old, Teegan, who is profoundly deaf. He knows he needs help with preparing to communicate with her, and finds himself with his daughter's teacher, Elliot – whom he may have once kissed in a moment of madness – judging him poorly for his decision.
As the story unfolds, we realise that both men come from a position of love, but also of misunderstanding. Luckily, they take the time to listen, learn, and ultimately, love. The children are key to much of the normalising of their feelings and the acknowledgement that they need to listen and learn.
I am not going to say any more as I think you need to enjoy the setting and plot yourself – I found it a good read, with a sweet romance created from a complicated situation.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 23, 2026
4.5 ⭐
Me encantó, que libro más lindo, que familia más hermosa, que niños más preciosos y que protas para amarlos.
Me encantó, que libro más lindo, que familia más hermosa, que niños más preciosos y que protas para amarlos.
November 17, 2024
Carino ma a tratti un po’ noioso e tutto troppo “facile”.
March 13, 2022
Nick Horner was a gorgeous confident man, a man with a lot of money and fame as the front man on a regular TV documentary series. But underneath his confident exterior he was still grieving the death of his beloved husband. It had been six years but it was still raw and it was only the fact that Nick had 3 children to look after that gave him the incentive to get out of bed most days.
Elliot was a teacher and with his slight build, pale hair and complexion and glasses he thought he was a classic nerd. He also taught Nick’s eldest child Hannah who Elliot was concerned about as she had changed and seemed to be struggling in class.
Elliot had a bit of a crush on Nick and when parents evening came around and Elliot had to face Nick he was flustered. When he told Nick his concerns about his daughter and suggested that he maybe take her to be checked for ADHD Nick lost it and reacted badly to Elliot and then came back and kissed him!
For two years they never spoke or interacted and Elliot quietly seethed until they were thrown together by the school Head when Nick was in the process of adopting a deaf 3 year old girl Teegan. Elliot had grown up with deaf parents and a deaf younger brother and was an expert in ASL which was something Nick was trying to learn so he would be able to communicate with Teegan.
They got off to a bad start. Elliot was convinced that Nick just wanted to add another child to his family to make himself look good and he was against the idea of him adopting a deaf child. Nick was determined to prove him wrong and the more time they spent together the closer they became and the more the chemistry that had always been there flared between them.
Elliot was wrong about Nick, he was a good man who had to overcome a tragedy in his life and I thought Elliot was too judgemental and high handed. Luckily Elliot mellowed and I thought they became a good match.
The supporting characters were well rounded and interesting and the children played a large and humorous part in the story. This was a good book that covered a variety of emotions, dealt with a sensitive subject and gave us a warm and fuzzy HEA.
Elliot was a teacher and with his slight build, pale hair and complexion and glasses he thought he was a classic nerd. He also taught Nick’s eldest child Hannah who Elliot was concerned about as she had changed and seemed to be struggling in class.
Elliot had a bit of a crush on Nick and when parents evening came around and Elliot had to face Nick he was flustered. When he told Nick his concerns about his daughter and suggested that he maybe take her to be checked for ADHD Nick lost it and reacted badly to Elliot and then came back and kissed him!
For two years they never spoke or interacted and Elliot quietly seethed until they were thrown together by the school Head when Nick was in the process of adopting a deaf 3 year old girl Teegan. Elliot had grown up with deaf parents and a deaf younger brother and was an expert in ASL which was something Nick was trying to learn so he would be able to communicate with Teegan.
They got off to a bad start. Elliot was convinced that Nick just wanted to add another child to his family to make himself look good and he was against the idea of him adopting a deaf child. Nick was determined to prove him wrong and the more time they spent together the closer they became and the more the chemistry that had always been there flared between them.
Elliot was wrong about Nick, he was a good man who had to overcome a tragedy in his life and I thought Elliot was too judgemental and high handed. Luckily Elliot mellowed and I thought they became a good match.
The supporting characters were well rounded and interesting and the children played a large and humorous part in the story. This was a good book that covered a variety of emotions, dealt with a sensitive subject and gave us a warm and fuzzy HEA.
March 18, 2022
Oh, my heart! Such a sweet and touching story.
RJ Scott knows just how to write a wonderful story that will make me feel everything and Listen does that and then some. There were happy tears and sad tears, laughter and smiles and everything in between while I was reading about Nick and Elliot. Every single book in this series has been a 5-star read for me.
I don’t know anything about being deaf, or the deaf community, but it certainly felt like a lot of research went into the writing of this book. There was so much in this story that was treated respectfully and it all felt very sincere and real; I also felt like I learned a lot by reading Listen.
The blurb tells you about the story much better than I can so take a look at it. Elliot is a dedicated and caring teacher. He and Nick get off on the wrong foot and they avoid each other for the next two years. It’s only when Nick needs help that Elliot agrees to see him again.
TBH, it’s been a year since I read the previous book in this series, and even longer for the others. I read so much that I’m terrible at remembering character names and even other details about a book. I’m mentioning this to let you know that it’s not necessary to read the previous books in the series to enjoy Listen. At least a few characters from the other books appear here but you won’t be lost if you haven’t read the previous books. I do highly recommend all of them though because they are wonderful stories.
I am very much looking forward to reading Pride, the final book in this series and coming sometime this summer. I almost forgot to say how much I love the cover for Listen. All of the covers in this series have been beautiful but there’s something about this one that really spoke to me.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
RJ Scott knows just how to write a wonderful story that will make me feel everything and Listen does that and then some. There were happy tears and sad tears, laughter and smiles and everything in between while I was reading about Nick and Elliot. Every single book in this series has been a 5-star read for me.
I don’t know anything about being deaf, or the deaf community, but it certainly felt like a lot of research went into the writing of this book. There was so much in this story that was treated respectfully and it all felt very sincere and real; I also felt like I learned a lot by reading Listen.
The blurb tells you about the story much better than I can so take a look at it. Elliot is a dedicated and caring teacher. He and Nick get off on the wrong foot and they avoid each other for the next two years. It’s only when Nick needs help that Elliot agrees to see him again.
TBH, it’s been a year since I read the previous book in this series, and even longer for the others. I read so much that I’m terrible at remembering character names and even other details about a book. I’m mentioning this to let you know that it’s not necessary to read the previous books in the series to enjoy Listen. At least a few characters from the other books appear here but you won’t be lost if you haven’t read the previous books. I do highly recommend all of them though because they are wonderful stories.
I am very much looking forward to reading Pride, the final book in this series and coming sometime this summer. I almost forgot to say how much I love the cover for Listen. All of the covers in this series have been beautiful but there’s something about this one that really spoke to me.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
March 6, 2022
This story doesn't just tug at your heart strings, it grabs hold and gives several hard yanks.
Nick is a man grieving for his husband, Elliot is his daughter Heather's teacher. Their first meeting didn't go the best. There was a good part but neither felt great about the ending.
As I read this, I felt so bad for Nick. All he was going through, raising 3 kids on his own while dealing with deep depression that he HAD to get through in order to be there for his kids. I wanted to grab ahold of him and not let go until he was ok again.
As far as Elliot was concerned, I knew he was a great guy who needed to "see" the real Nick. He too had had tragedy in his past, but he could help Nick in a way that was extremely important.
As they became closer, as Elliot learned who Nick truly was deep down, their attraction grew. These two men were perfect for each other.
The heat between them was off the charts but in a low simmer kind of way.
Nick's kids are wonderful young people. Appearing to be old souls. Teegan, their future little sister, was something they anxiously waited for. Teegan is a doll.
I so loved how the author developed these kids. How they handled situations and how close they all were to each other. A close-knit family that could only be enhanced with the additions of Teegan and Elliot.
The emotions I felt throughout this story are the following.
Intrigued, sympathetic, excited for the family, gooey...because I love Elliot and Nick together, ( fans are necessary for a few scenes) also gooey because they all make an amazingly wonderful family and last, angry enough to throat punch someone several times. You'll understand.
So please get this book. It is a must need as far as I am concerned.
5/5 plushies
I received an Advanced Readers Copy for this, my honest review.
Nick is a man grieving for his husband, Elliot is his daughter Heather's teacher. Their first meeting didn't go the best. There was a good part but neither felt great about the ending.
As I read this, I felt so bad for Nick. All he was going through, raising 3 kids on his own while dealing with deep depression that he HAD to get through in order to be there for his kids. I wanted to grab ahold of him and not let go until he was ok again.
As far as Elliot was concerned, I knew he was a great guy who needed to "see" the real Nick. He too had had tragedy in his past, but he could help Nick in a way that was extremely important.
As they became closer, as Elliot learned who Nick truly was deep down, their attraction grew. These two men were perfect for each other.
The heat between them was off the charts but in a low simmer kind of way.
Nick's kids are wonderful young people. Appearing to be old souls. Teegan, their future little sister, was something they anxiously waited for. Teegan is a doll.
I so loved how the author developed these kids. How they handled situations and how close they all were to each other. A close-knit family that could only be enhanced with the additions of Teegan and Elliot.
The emotions I felt throughout this story are the following.
Intrigued, sympathetic, excited for the family, gooey...because I love Elliot and Nick together, ( fans are necessary for a few scenes) also gooey because they all make an amazingly wonderful family and last, angry enough to throat punch someone several times. You'll understand.
So please get this book. It is a must need as far as I am concerned.
5/5 plushies
I received an Advanced Readers Copy for this, my honest review.
March 17, 2022
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in the series and a great read. I would recommend that you read them all as they are all really delicious, but you could always go back after indulging in this one!
Nick has been part of the Single Dads' world from the beginning, the steadying influence, the man still wearing his wedding ring, in spite of Danny having died a while ago. His intention to stick to their plan to adopt more children finds him ready to taken on a lovely three year old, Teegan, who is profoundly deaf. He knows he needs help with preparing to communicate with her, and finds himself with his daughter's teacher, Elliot - whom he may have once kissed in a moment of madness - judging him poorly for his decision.
As the story unfolds we realise that both men come from a position of love, but also of misunderstanding. Luckily, they take the time to listen, learn and ultimately love. The children are key to much of the normalising of their feelings and the acknowledgement that they need to listen and learn.
I am not going to say any more as I think you need to enjoy the setting and plot yourself - I found it a good read, with a sweet romance created from a complicated situation.
This is the fifth book in the series and a great read. I would recommend that you read them all as they are all really delicious, but you could always go back after indulging in this one!
Nick has been part of the Single Dads' world from the beginning, the steadying influence, the man still wearing his wedding ring, in spite of Danny having died a while ago. His intention to stick to their plan to adopt more children finds him ready to taken on a lovely three year old, Teegan, who is profoundly deaf. He knows he needs help with preparing to communicate with her, and finds himself with his daughter's teacher, Elliot - whom he may have once kissed in a moment of madness - judging him poorly for his decision.
As the story unfolds we realise that both men come from a position of love, but also of misunderstanding. Luckily, they take the time to listen, learn and ultimately love. The children are key to much of the normalising of their feelings and the acknowledgement that they need to listen and learn.
I am not going to say any more as I think you need to enjoy the setting and plot yourself - I found it a good read, with a sweet romance created from a complicated situation.
March 18, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Single Dads series. This was a very touching and insightful book for those of us who know little or nothing about the Deaf community. The characters were wonderful and the pace kept me from putting the book down. It was a great addition to the series and I can’t wait for the next installment. Though it is the fifth in the series, I feel this book can be read as a stand-alone.
March 19, 2022
Leave it to RJ to ripped your heart both ways, break you and warm you
A heavy issue about disability and how to live with it and make peace.
I followed RJ for years, and I'm glad she's one of my favorite author.
This one is my favorite if this series. RJ did it very well.
Recommended.
A heavy issue about disability and how to live with it and make peace.
I followed RJ for years, and I'm glad she's one of my favorite author.
This one is my favorite if this series. RJ did it very well.
Recommended.
March 18, 2022
We finally got Nick's story. He was the one who started the single dads. My heart went out to Nick. Elliot got on my nerves at the beginning, but he softened. Great story.
March 25, 2022
Let me say that I wasn’t gonna finish this book because I’ve found Elliot so judgmental at the beginning, but I was happily surprised with this one
July 24, 2022
on the fence
3.25 stars
Again in this series I am on the fence. I loved the story but also had issues with it.
I liked Nick and loved what he was doing, his love for his family was great to read. I loved that he was doing everything he could to be the best parent he could be for Teegan, he knew he had heaps to learn but was happy to put in the time to learn it.
It was actually Elliott I struggled to connect with. While I appreciated his decision to look out for Teegan’s best interests he was so abrasive at times and I found him quite judgemental. He held a grudge on a parent for 2 years, yes Nick made a mistake but he was also struggling and I’d like to meet any parent who is so perfect they have never made a mistake. I honestly don’t understand what Nick saw in him.
3.25 stars
Again in this series I am on the fence. I loved the story but also had issues with it.
I liked Nick and loved what he was doing, his love for his family was great to read. I loved that he was doing everything he could to be the best parent he could be for Teegan, he knew he had heaps to learn but was happy to put in the time to learn it.
It was actually Elliott I struggled to connect with. While I appreciated his decision to look out for Teegan’s best interests he was so abrasive at times and I found him quite judgemental. He held a grudge on a parent for 2 years, yes Nick made a mistake but he was also struggling and I’d like to meet any parent who is so perfect they have never made a mistake. I honestly don’t understand what Nick saw in him.
January 23, 2025
I just loved Nick’s heart of gold. The life he wanted and was able to build for his family had me smiling more than once. I loved that it wasn’t perfect…and yet it was.
There are very few good things that came out of Covid. (I know, I know). But, having more people next to Governors and other politicians who are signing/doing ASL is one of those good things.
There are very few good things that came out of Covid. (I know, I know). But, having more people next to Governors and other politicians who are signing/doing ASL is one of those good things.
March 19, 2022
Loved it!!!
This book was such a great addition to the Single Dads series. After their first disastrous meeting Nick and Elliott are thrown together. This book was very touching and I loved seeing these two men grow closer. I can't wait for the next one.
This book was such a great addition to the Single Dads series. After their first disastrous meeting Nick and Elliott are thrown together. This book was very touching and I loved seeing these two men grow closer. I can't wait for the next one.
April 12, 2022
Consistency and Pacing (definite spoilers) 2.5 stars
Okay so Positives:
I loved the family dynamic and the support system they had all around them. They had weathered some rough patches and were thriving. The kids and Dad were all stars with individual personalities that showed.
Negatives:
This was all Elliot for me. He failed as an educator. He claimed to be wanting to be so hard on seeing if a potential guy who is obviously trying to change his life and prepare to help a child thrive but he was just judging out the gate with no actual knowledge of the situation. What made this all worse was that his entire basis was petty hurt feelings. Then there were personal pet peeves of mine such as 1) never letting anyone explain their reasoning and instead leapfrogging to conclusions. And 2) ‘playing devil’s advocate’ which only makes sense if the alternative is viable and not the worst possible option available.
He then did the ultimate 180 and was ‘in love’ like 5 pages later because he had already been spending weeks getting to know this family before deciding to be the ‘devil’s advocate’ and saw all the good stuff mentioned above. It’s bizarre.
Okay so Positives:
I loved the family dynamic and the support system they had all around them. They had weathered some rough patches and were thriving. The kids and Dad were all stars with individual personalities that showed.
Negatives:
This was all Elliot for me. He failed as an educator. He claimed to be wanting to be so hard on seeing if a potential guy who is obviously trying to change his life and prepare to help a child thrive but he was just judging out the gate with no actual knowledge of the situation. What made this all worse was that his entire basis was petty hurt feelings. Then there were personal pet peeves of mine such as 1) never letting anyone explain their reasoning and instead leapfrogging to conclusions. And 2) ‘playing devil’s advocate’ which only makes sense if the alternative is viable and not the worst possible option available.
He then did the ultimate 180 and was ‘in love’ like 5 pages later because he had already been spending weeks getting to know this family before deciding to be the ‘devil’s advocate’ and saw all the good stuff mentioned above. It’s bizarre.
April 15, 2022
I love single dad romances & this one was a sweet little read. Fast paced, charming, low angst, and heartfelt. I did have major issues with Elliot's behavior in the beginning. Nick showed him way more grace than he probably deserved, TBH. That lost a star for me.
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