Her Valentine Surprise

Manhattan Holiday Loves #2

by Ayla Asher

Joy Paulson is fine being single. In fact, it saves her from the maddening dating rituals in Manhattan. If she ever settles down, it will be with someone she truly loves and trusts. That’s why she turns down her super-hot boss when he asks her out, leading to disaster when he retaliates, forcing her termination.

Sam Davidson has pined for Joy since the first time he saw her sweet smile and stunning eyes. But there’s a secret that the shy IT developer holds deep inside: Sam is still a virgin. At twenty-nine, he never intended it to happen, but accepts that he could never please Joy in all the ways she deserves.

Sam can offer her a job, though, and proceeds to help Joy rebuild her life after the unfair firing. As their work relationship grows, Joy is taken with Sam’s kindness, gorgeous crystal-hazel eyes and generous smile. And his hands…oh, his firm, broad hands…

Joy can’t figure out why Sam resists the desire that sparks so vividly between them, but Valentine’s Day is coming and she’s determined to seduce him and make them both burn. Even if it means discovering all his secrets…

Inexperienced hero trope-lovers unite! This is a fun, fast-paced, steamy novella from an author who wanted to flip the script and write about a sweet, sexy, inexperienced male main character. Sam is so adorably sensual and endearing, he might just melt your heart. Here’s wishing you a fantastic Valentine’s Day all year round!

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary, Audiobook, Novella, Workplace Romance, Holiday

157 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2022

About the author

Ayla Asher is the pen name for a USA Today bestselling author who writes steamy fantasy romance under a different pseudonym. However, she loves a spicy, fast-paced contemporary romance too! Therefore, she's decided to share some of her contemporary stories, hoping to spread a little joy one HEA at a time.

She would love to connect with you on social media, where she enjoys making dorky TikToks, FB/IG posts and fun book trailers!

Facebook: https://bit.ly/3vUlqmU
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3jGhwcq
TikTok: http://bit.ly/3bz1gF7
Email: authoraylaasher@gmail.com
Newsletter: subscribepage.com/aylaasher

Reviews

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series because in addition to the wonderful characters and delicious romance❤❤, there’s always a juicy hook that grabs me from page one. Joy works hard at her job as a personal assistant. When her boss hits on her and she politely turns him down, he reacts by inventing bogus reasons to get her fired. Reader, my blood boiled in some of those scenes! 😠 Sam the IT guy was such a sweetheart. I loved the sweet and awkward scenes between him and Joy as they worked to navigate both forming a business together… and something more. This romance was the perfect mix of sweet and steamy. ❤🔥❤🔥 And I enjoyed the way the resolution worked out with Joy’s HR issues.

Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.

[Mahima · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest review*

I am in love with the bond these girls have!!
All three girls are their own personalities. I've not read the series in order but this was the last one by the author left on my shelf.

Joy is very caring and emotional. At 32 she wants her happily ever after. Whereas Sam at 29 is a hot as hell virgin who is extremely shy. This is the guy I am sucker for😍 He is so talented, caring, sentimental and shy too.
The way he responds to think makes him so mature.

They both compliment each other in the best way and manage to fight all their hurdles to reach their HEA ❤️

[QuinnReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets and Solutions

I really like this book and series. Joy may think her boss is hot but that doesn't mean she's interested in dating him. When things head south after she turns him down, the real fun begins. The story of her redemption in the business world and the beginning of a new adventure with Sam, personally and professionally, is reaffirming, sweet, and adorable. It's is also... mmm... sizzling. They have great chemistry and camaraderie. There are bumps but I like how they manage them.

There are crossover characters from the first novel in the series but you can read or listen to this as a standalone. Speaking of listening, I listened to an author gifted copy of this book. Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross are terrific at the mic.

Ayla Asher's audio books are dual narrated with each narrator maintaining their character no matter whose POV the chapter is under. I LOVE THIS! It's a seemingly small thing but it makes a world of difference to the experience. It takes extra editing but I appreciate it.

Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars

[Ayla Asher]

🎧Now on Audio!🎧
Duet Narrated by Kai Kennicott & Wen Ross!

Find it on ALL platforms at AylaAsher.com

Or, you can always download review copies of all of Ayla's audiobooks on StoryOrigin if you are are an ARC listener and enjoy leaving reviews.💕

Happy listening! (less)

[MoodyReaderHMB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Valentine Surprise is the second book in the Manhattan Holiday Loves Series. This is the story Sam and Joy. Now Joy maybe familiar from His Holiday Pact. You get to see the same characters from the first book Kayla, Laura, and don’t forget the hot stud Carter. Sam and Joy story was a sweet holiday treat and it will get you into the Valentine spirit. Ayla Asher is bringing in little tasty morsels with these stories. The group of women are strong and may share to much information within their group but are lovable characters. So if you’re looking for a book to give you romance and heart warm fuzzy story then this is for you.

[Aly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Im starting to see that Ayla Asher is going to become a new favorite author of mine. I read this book in 2 days, I couldn't put it down. This book has the perfect mix of sweet and sultry scenes. And no toxic relationships to be seen! The characters care and respect eachother instead of being toxic. I adore Joys character as a hard working female whos very blunt in regards to what she wants and needs. And I love Sams sweet but shy nature. Another great book from a great author and I CANNOT WAIT until the next book comes out.

[Renee Ladner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the book !!!

A really fantastic romance . I would recommend this book to any one who loves a book full of intense romance. This is your book .A perfect Valentine book. Enjoy!!!!!!

[Rellim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note: I listened to this as part of a box set (exclusive to Chirp.) of the series. Ebook available in KU.

This steamy Valentine’s story is the second book in Ayla Asher’s Manhattan Holiday Loves series. While it stands on it’s own - chronologically it takes place after His Holiday Pact so it’s better enjoyed after that.

This has some fun tropes: virgin hero and office romance. Sam rescues Joy after she loses her job - he’s been in love with her forever but now that they’re working closely together he’s determined to keep things professional. Joy has decided she’s ready to cross that line and Sam doesn’t stand a chance.

While there’s a small hiccup in their relationship - they get back on track quickly. I liked that this was fairly low angst. And Epilogue! Have I mentioned I love epilogues? 😉

I’m looking forward to Laura’s story, Her Patriotic Prince.

I enjoyed the duet narration by Kai Kennicott & Wen Ross. They are a great fit with Asher’s writing and characters.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/8/2020)! 🎁

[vivareads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple and cute.

[Bri Little · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

The guy in this was SO SWEET and worried he wouldn’t please his partner!! We love to see a man who does anything to hit that g spot!!! Overall a very cute romance besides the occasional slut-shaming.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Story & Narration🎧 Riveting & Heartfelt!

Her Valentine Surprise
Manhattan Holiday Loves, Book 2
By: Ayla Asher
Narrated by: Kai Kennicott, Wen Ross

Ayla Asher pens another wonderful novel in her “Manhattan Holiday Loves” series, this is the second book in the series and I loved it as much as I loved the first one. It is well written with interesting and original storylines that are captivating from start to end. I like that each book in this series focuses around a holiday and that this is not just a holiday romance, it is so much more and a book that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Each of the books feature another character from a triage of great friends, Kayla Summers, Laura Cunningham and Joy Paulson. I love the friendship and the closeness of these three woman. The book is Joy’s story, she is a hard worker and has worked her way up to a nice salary in her position, as an added bonus she gets to work for the hottest guy in the company, Drake. But when he asks her out and she declines him he turns on her and she winds up losing her job. One of the IT guys, Sam, who always came to her rescue when her computer crashed comes to her rescue once again offering her a new career opportunity. Sam had a thing for Joy from the first time he laid on eyes on her but he lacked the confidence to ask her out, his inexperience in the bedroom has left him insecure and has put a damper on his love life, it makes him feel like she deserves so much more than he could offer. When the two start spending more time together Joy wants more, the chemistry between them is undeniable but he pushes to keep his distance whenever they get close. I admired Joy’s determination to have him. I loved how everything plays out in this book, the story is nicely plotted and there is never a dull moment with plenty of drama, a touch of angst, some great humor, lots of heartfelt and emotional moments, some great sexy times & a great romance. Ayla Asher, thank you for another great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

I listened to the Audible edition, Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross are talented narrators and voice artist. They continue to bring these character to life, giving each their own voice and personality. Their portrayal of the characters is spot on, sounding just as I picture them to sound . They are an awesome duet team and you can hear how much heart they put in to their work as they capture the characters emotions and project them into their performance.me du They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another wonderful listen🎧

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The sisterhood I loved in His Holiday Pact is back and still wonderful. The way Kayla and Laura support Joy when life throws her a curveball is heart-warming and inspiring. Every human should have friendships like this.
Sam’s virginity is a nice twist. It’s not often we read about virginal heroes in romance fiction. He’s sweet and considerate and dives headfirst into helping Joy. He lacks the confidence (arrogance?) of an “alpha” hero trope which is wonderful. I enjoy a softer hero and Sam definitely comes out of his shell toward the end of the book.
Their first sex scene is one of my favorites I’ve read lately. It’s consent positive and Joy isn’t afraid to tell Sam what she needs and makes the experience comfortable and pressure-free for Sam. I am a stickler for safe sex though, even in fiction, and I’ve seen the ‘I’m on the pill and clean’ phrase used so much lately I’m almost craving some prophylactic terminology but that’s a me thing, not an author thing.
I enjoyed how they both spoke their piece when each had trust broken and how they managed to see the other’s perspective after some thought.

I do wish creepy boss Drake had gotten his just desserts. Joy’s wanting to sleep with him initially seemed at odds with her desire to find love and marriage.

The Manhattan Loves series is full of love, laughter, and friendship. Her Valentine Surprise doesn’t disappoint in meeting expectations in a book you can easily read in a couple of hours. I am looking forward to Laura’s story in Her Patriotic Prince.

I received a free copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a refreshing story! I love Ayla Asher's books, each taking a place around a holiday. What better holiday than Valentine's Day for a romance? But this is not an ordinary romance. Joy is an ambitious worker. Infatuated with her good looking boss Drake, the day comes that he asks her out! Only her rejection ends up getting her fired. Coworker Sam, who works in IT has longed for Joy. He is starting his own company, and with Joy by his side, it may just work out. But will he act on his feelings? Sam holds several secrets that may end his chance with Joy before it starts! This is a fun listen! I love the whole premise. The friendships with Joy, Kayla and Lauren are strong and it's fun to have them move from book to book. Joy is a great character. Though she seems quiet, the girl has spunk and she is not going quietly. Sam is insecure, and watching his self assurance build is gratifying. It's a wonderful story of growth, self awareness, love and humor. Asher comes through with steamy scenes and a true love to stand the test of time.

Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross narrate this gem, and they are incredible as always. Their chemistry shines through and makes the couple realistic. I love Kai as Joy. She gives her spunk, and I love her inflections of love and patience with Sam. Wen has his normal experienced alpha flipped to the insecure Sam and he nails it. He is fantastic bringing him to his true self. This team is always wonderful and I know when I start the book, I am coming home.

[Simara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ayla Asher may have only three books on Audible but she’s quickly becoming one of my favorite romance authors. This is book 2 of the Manhattan Holiday Loves series but it can easily be read/listened to as a stand alone. This series has so much going on that makes it wonderful: a great group of friends (a la Sex and the City), hot men and original heartfelt love stories. Our hero is a virgin. A sweet, charming, hot as hell hero. This is a slow burn romance and how their relationship progresses will make you feel invested in the outcome.

The dual POV narration of Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross only adds more passion to the story. Both are awesome narrators with good diction, distinct voices and that add the right emotions to the story.

This is a sweet and hot story with great dual POV narration that makes you want more. Now I can’t wait to see what happens with the other friend. Will continue with the series and will look forward to more books by this author and narrators. Highly recommended!!

[Shawna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ehhhh. I was mildly intrigued by a male virgin story (kind of hoping for some adorable awkward first time hijinx), but ofc he's a sex wizard. There are a lot of complicating work factors, and I'm sorry, but I just don't buy that a business helping old people fix and set up their computers is going to be profitable enough to support two Manhattan lifestyles right off the bat. I also saw the 'black moment' (actually, I kind of always want to change that to 'bleak moment' and just might do so from now on. Y'know, 'cause it's the moment when their future together seems bleakest) coming from a mile off and it was just as dumb as I thought it would be.

I don't know, I just felt like this could have quite easily been more interesting than it was, but just sort of fell into the trap of being very blah.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second book of this three book series, we find Joy and Sam. The author paints a vivid picture of the different stages of their relationship. Her characters are well rounded and the plot well developed. I couldn't be more pleased that I found this author, who is definitely a go to when choosing a sizzling romance, with that blissful happily ever after. I can't wait to get started on the third book of the series. On to the next.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own.

[Kylie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, this author can crush a holiday romance read .
Alllll the feels .
I love that there’s not much angst and not rushed .
Just a thorough story Where the characters are thoroughly developed and they have strong chemistry . I loved this quick Valentine’s read And the audible narrators were awesome !
A must Valentines read!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Joy Paulson is fine being single. In fact, it saves her from the maddening dating rituals in Manhattan. If she ever settles down, it will be with someone she truly loves and trusts. That’s why she turns down her super-hot boss when he asks her out, leading to disaster when he retaliates, forcing her termination.

Sam Davidson has pined for Joy since the first time he saw her sweet smile and stunning eyes. But there’s a secret that the shy IT developer holds deep inside: Sam is still a virgin. At twenty-nine, he never intended it to happen, but accepts that he could never please Joy in all the ways she deserves.

Sam can offer her a job, though, and proceeds to help Joy rebuild her life after the unfair firing. As their work relationship grows, Joy is taken with Sam’s kindness, gorgeous crystal-hazel eyes and generous smile. And his hands…oh, his firm, broad hands…

Joy can’t figure out why Sam resists the desire that sparks so vividly between them, but Valentine’s Day is coming and she’s determined to seduce him and make them both burn. Even if it means discovering all his secrets…

Inexperienced hero trope-lovers unite! This is a fun, fast-paced, steamy novella from an author who wanted to flip the script and write about a sweet, sexy, inexperienced male main character. Sam is so adorably sensual and endearing, he might just melt your heart. Here’s wishing you a fantastic Valentine’s Day all year round!

[Isolette or (ICY) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoohoo omg I never thought I fall In love more on Valentine’s Day . Ayla Asher omg I so freaking speechless. I’m totally blow away. And the audio wowow so freaking sexy. And that voice wow I felt it in my bones. I was honor receiving this book as a arc audio and love it. Plus I going to have to buy the paperbook to own. You think books are what to you hear it on audiobook it was fantastic. The story the characters were amazing.
Sam was a virgina and fell in love with joy. Until he found something on her boss computer that would harm Joy. He was very shy and plus know he was a Virgin he didn’t now how to approach her. Sam was a tech guy from the company. Joy always has some problems with the computer. dam decided to ask her boss to replace her computer it needed a update Sam please the order to the computer for Joy.
Joy love her job special she couldn’t stop looking at her boss. Until he ask her out one day and told she only have to do sign paperwork that say their relationship would t affect work. Will Joy didn’t like it at all. Joy decided to be just friends at work. Well just say her work got worse until she lost her job. Damn felt bad what happened to Haoy and decided bro help her.
The romance omg Ayla it was wowo😱😱😱😱🥵🥵🥵🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶.
I recommend this book I totally to and I don’t say it a 5 I say it a 10 . Love how everything click to the story and special the ending how it ended. Th m you once again Ayla Asher you truly outdone your self . And I believe it is a very special day thank you ☺️

[Ivy Blacke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy loses her job because bher boss is a complete sexist pig. She is lost and not sure what or how she will get by now.

Sam has been in love with Joy since the moment he met her 2 years ago. When she unfairly loses her job, he decides to finally make the leap into starting his own company.

Sam convinces Joy to be his partner in the new business and she tries to convince him to partner with her in other ways as well.

But secrets and truths hold them back. What happens when everything comes to the surface? Can love prevail, or will they both lose?

Such an amazing story, absolutely amazing loving this series.

[Brandy Sisler · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? I love a good straight forward contemporary romance set to a holiday theme. This author knows how to make you fall in love with her characters and suck you into her writing almost as if you were literally the female lead character. She has a flow that is steady and easily followable. Sam and Joy have such a cute dialogue. All around the second book did not disappoint ( I believe we can call this a standalone, but it also follows along with a set of characters, you just dont have to read book 1 to jump into this.) I hope to see more of Sam and Joy in the future even if it is only a quick update novella.

[MyDogAteMyBookReview · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just ... so damn perfect. If I could choose a book boyfriend for Valentines Day, it would be Sam. He stole my damn heart. He’s just so genuine yet so damn sexy. He can bruise my hips with his fingers any damn day 😂

Also, I just love the friendships between Joy, Kayla & Laura. They’re a family 💛

[Kasandra Setrakova · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unfortunately not my cup of tea 🥺

[Jocelyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Manhattan Holiday Loves Series. This is a sweet and sexy romance. The storyline is original. Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross did a great job with the narration. Looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series, Her Patriotic Prince. I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Ayla Asher and it didn’t disappoint. Joy and Sam work for the company and Sam has been in love with her from afar ever since he met her. Joy has noticed how nice Sam is but hasn’t noticed until now how attractive he is. I really enjoyed this book watching Sam and Joy build a relationship based on friendship. Even though I typically like the alpha male character, I really liked Sam, a sweet and very shy guy. Joy is also very nice but much more direct, which Sam needs. This book also had a good amount of steam to go along with the sweet. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

[Trisha c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ayla Asher has written a short sexy story, that is not without its drama. Joy, a perfectionist executive assistant, Sam the cute, shy IT nerd guy, and her hot sexy boss. Her boss retaliates, fires her, when she turns down a date with him. Joy is at a loss when she was fired.
Sam quit his job, hired her for his new IT company, and SamJoy was formed. Sam shows his vulnerability when around Joy. He always had a crush on her. He has a major secret he's withholding from her. Their connection is electric, and Joy has a plan for a Valentine Surprise for him.
Wen Ross and Kai Kennecott duet narration is great! They make it an enjoyable experience listening to this story. I was gifted this story and offered my honest review

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a code in return for an honest review. I loved Sam and Joy, but I particularly loved Sam. He was an inexperienced in love, IT geek who had a heart so full of love I just wanted to squeeze him tight (maybe in a post COVID world!!!). I loved how open and caring Joy was, and how she was able to teach Sam how to love and show love.

Wen and Kai are two of my favourite narrators and they did not disappoint. This was a short sweet story that left me with a smile on my face.

[Falling_with_the_leaves · Rating 5 out of 5]

*review for audible version*

I love Sam and Joy! I loved that Sam was the inexperienced hero. I don't know why but it just made him so much hotter. I was swooning so hard for him. It did not take him long to turn into a dirty talking, sex God. It was all Joy and her influence and corruption on him. 🤣🤣🤣 I was so upset with all the things Joy went through. And then Sam came to save the day, just the biggest freaking sweetheart and hottest nerd EVER! The sexual tension was just on fire. I was wrapped up in this story and never wanted it to end! You're going to love it just like I do!

[Nikki Rome · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love is in the air!

This was a fun, fast, steamy read and just what I was looking for. I adore Ayla Asher’s books and this one did not disappoint. This is the first time I’ve read a slightly nerdy male MC and I loved him! Sam is beyond swoon worthy! I’m looking forward to reading more from this awesome author.

[Judy Eubanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy was enamored with her boss and always wanted to please him but her computer did not always make it possible to get things completed as planned. That's when she called Sam in the IT Department. Her boss terminates her, and she eventually finds happiness with work and love. I enjoyed her girlfriends through all 3 books and how they stick together