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Love in London #2
A Very London Christmas
Saoirse has a very London Christmas ahead. She’s scored the best nannying role ever, to four-year-old Bea, and they plan to take festive London by storm. Cue hot chocolate! Ice skating! Father Christmas at Harrods! It’s like a fairytale, except for the part where Saoirse starts to fall for her boss, Bea’s dad. Divorced. Unreasonably gorgeous. Loaded. And either completely heartbroken, or the love child of Scrooge and The Grinch. She can’t decide which.
Miles is determined to give Bea a proper Christmas this year. Last Christmas--the year her mother left them and the world shut down--was a disaster. So he’s hired a sweet, bubbly, Christmas-obsessed nanny to be her companion. Which seems smart, because he couldn't be less festive. But he feels a lot less smart when Saoirse’s warm heart, endless enthusiasm and angelic looks play havoc with his heart (and his trousers). His heart is not open for business. It is firmly, irreversibly shut. Besides, he could never be serious about a woman who buys a Mrs Claus seat cover for the toilet in his penthouse.
WARNING: A Very London Christmas is a grumpy sunshine, single dad, nanny-boss romance containing enough festivity to warm the Scroogiest hearts, and a sprinkling of Christmas spice!
Miles is determined to give Bea a proper Christmas this year. Last Christmas--the year her mother left them and the world shut down--was a disaster. So he’s hired a sweet, bubbly, Christmas-obsessed nanny to be her companion. Which seems smart, because he couldn't be less festive. But he feels a lot less smart when Saoirse’s warm heart, endless enthusiasm and angelic looks play havoc with his heart (and his trousers). His heart is not open for business. It is firmly, irreversibly shut. Besides, he could never be serious about a woman who buys a Mrs Claus seat cover for the toilet in his penthouse.
WARNING: A Very London Christmas is a grumpy sunshine, single dad, nanny-boss romance containing enough festivity to warm the Scroogiest hearts, and a sprinkling of Christmas spice!
228 pages, ebook
First published November 30, 2021
2181 people are currently reading
4324 people want to read
About the author
Sara Madderson
18 books482 followersI like to change things up! I spent my 20s as a banker and my 30s bringing up small children and running my own fashion brand (Madderson London).
Now, aged 43, I find myself writing, and I wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.
I’ve always loved writing. My daughter Tilly has an old notebook of mine filled with half-finished stories and accompanying drawings. I’ve read for as long as I can remember, guzzling up books so quickly that my mum always protested that I couldn’t be reading them properly. You can see my original, dog-eared version of A Little Princess in my photo. Its protagonist, Sara Crewe, is one of my all-time favourite heroines (alongside Anne Shirley, naturally).
I published my first book, Metamorphosis, in February 2020, right before lockdown happened. It’s a non-fiction book about escaping from our cocoons and living as a butterfly. As lockdown progressed, I found escapism in devouring lots of delicious chick-lit (for want of a better title) and I realised I had a few novels in me too. I have loved every single minute of writing them.
I’ve published my books independently, and I love the freedom it provides. The world of independent publishing is fascinating and so empowering—I’m delighted to share more of my experiences of self-publishing if you’re interested.
Now, aged 43, I find myself writing, and I wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.
I’ve always loved writing. My daughter Tilly has an old notebook of mine filled with half-finished stories and accompanying drawings. I’ve read for as long as I can remember, guzzling up books so quickly that my mum always protested that I couldn’t be reading them properly. You can see my original, dog-eared version of A Little Princess in my photo. Its protagonist, Sara Crewe, is one of my all-time favourite heroines (alongside Anne Shirley, naturally).
I published my first book, Metamorphosis, in February 2020, right before lockdown happened. It’s a non-fiction book about escaping from our cocoons and living as a butterfly. As lockdown progressed, I found escapism in devouring lots of delicious chick-lit (for want of a better title) and I realised I had a few novels in me too. I have loved every single minute of writing them.
I’ve published my books independently, and I love the freedom it provides. The world of independent publishing is fascinating and so empowering—I’m delighted to share more of my experiences of self-publishing if you’re interested.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
December 4, 2024
It was nice story but it felt somewhat flat. I would have liked more emotion.
December 5, 2022
Cute, sweet and SPICY Christmas themed contemporary romance. Rich MC H, who needs a nanny for his cute as a button four year old daughter. Enter our MC h. The problem seemed HUGE, but was resolved in a realistic way AND YIKES the MC H gets HUGE points from me for not being shy and declaring his relationship with the Big Problem. Like, he didn’t even hesitate to be 100%, yeah, we’re together, get over it. SWOON.
I’m not used to MC H’s 1) being so in tune with their emotions and 2) being so OPEN about said feelings. It was refreshing, sexy and men AND women IRL need to take notes. Communication is KEY and I like how this book did not have the miscommunication to cause fake problems trope. The problem in this book was real AND it was dealt with in a mature, adult manner. If only all problems were dealt with that way. I guess that’s why romance books are fantasy…sigh…
ANYwho, adorable book, with some really spicy scenes. 4 solid, glad I Buddy Read this, even if I took forever to finish it…sorry Buddy, stars!
I’m not used to MC H’s 1) being so in tune with their emotions and 2) being so OPEN about said feelings. It was refreshing, sexy and men AND women IRL need to take notes. Communication is KEY and I like how this book did not have the miscommunication to cause fake problems trope. The problem in this book was real AND it was dealt with in a mature, adult manner. If only all problems were dealt with that way. I guess that’s why romance books are fantasy…sigh…
ANYwho, adorable book, with some really spicy scenes. 4 solid, glad I Buddy Read this, even if I took forever to finish it…sorry Buddy, stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
Very cute 🫶
I really enjoyed this one!
Around 4.5 ⭐️’s
I really enjoyed this one!
Around 4.5 ⭐️’s
December 23, 2021
like a warm Christmas cuddle
Absolutely adored this lovely Christmas romance. Bea stole my heart and I adored Soirse and Miles together -they were perfection. It was also a delicious love letter to London, and I was there for it!
Absolutely adored this lovely Christmas romance. Bea stole my heart and I adored Soirse and Miles together -they were perfection. It was also a delicious love letter to London, and I was there for it!
December 3, 2024
Sara Madderson's “A Very London Christmas” certainly attempts to wrap readers in a festive embrace, complete with sparkling lights and — sometimes — cosy corners of London. However, as enchanting as the premise might sound, the execution left me cold. While marketed as a heartwarming seasonal read, it’s more akin to a tin of biscuits that looks promising but offers only the plainest, already-crumbling, and dry selection once opened.
The most glaring issue is the utter superficiality of the characters and plot. Operating on a schematic level, the people populating Madderson’s London feel less like real individuals and more like archetypes hastily thrown together.
Additionally, there’s a complete lack of innovation here. Every twist, from misunderstandings to the eventual conclusion, feels plucked from genre clichés. That said, I reluctantly admit a few redeeming qualities. I appreciated the absence of the typical third-act breakup — a trope overused to death in romances. Madderson avoided it, which felt refreshing amidst the otherwise predictable fare.
Still, these positives can’t outweigh just how hollow the reading experience is. While serviceable as a bit of forgettable fluff, “A Very London Christmas” fails to either uplift or inspire.
Two out of five stars feels fair.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
The most glaring issue is the utter superficiality of the characters and plot. Operating on a schematic level, the people populating Madderson’s London feel less like real individuals and more like archetypes hastily thrown together.
Additionally, there’s a complete lack of innovation here. Every twist, from misunderstandings to the eventual conclusion, feels plucked from genre clichés. That said, I reluctantly admit a few redeeming qualities. I appreciated the absence of the typical third-act breakup — a trope overused to death in romances. Madderson avoided it, which felt refreshing amidst the otherwise predictable fare.
Still, these positives can’t outweigh just how hollow the reading experience is. While serviceable as a bit of forgettable fluff, “A Very London Christmas” fails to either uplift or inspire.
Two out of five stars feels fair.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
December 31, 2021
"It feels like she’s exactly where she belongs."
A Very London Christmas is a sweet and somewhat steamy holiday romance between Miles, impossibly attractive, highly successful and wealthy, yet somewhat Scrooge-like, and Saoirse, his Christmas loving nanny. Miles and his four-year-old daughter Bea had experienced loss and Bea was the only one who brought light to Miles. Everything he did was for her. Saoirse adored little Bea and wanted to make the most of her own time in London while giving Bea a Christmas to remember.
Miles and Saoirse were polar opposites but the physical attraction was instant, something they fought since Saoirse was his employee. Miles needed to work on trusting he could have a healthy relationship with someone who truly loved him while doing what was best for Bea. Saoirse, meanwhile, beautiful inside and out, did not even realize how beautiful she was. She found joy and wonder in everything as she explored her new life in London while she devoted herself to little Bea.
I enjoyed their story for the most part, getting immersed in the London setting and feeling the Christmas spirit. I loved watching Miles open himself up to Saoirse and the possibility of love while Saoirse found her place in his world. The ending fizzled out for me a little but I think a sequel with the couple's wedding is in the works. I also didn't love the references to lockdown and typically avoid books that go there. Overall, it was fun watching Miles and Saoirse find their HEA and their story is a great way to spread the joy at Christmastime.
** 3.5 stars rounded to 4 for Goodreads **
A Very London Christmas is a sweet and somewhat steamy holiday romance between Miles, impossibly attractive, highly successful and wealthy, yet somewhat Scrooge-like, and Saoirse, his Christmas loving nanny. Miles and his four-year-old daughter Bea had experienced loss and Bea was the only one who brought light to Miles. Everything he did was for her. Saoirse adored little Bea and wanted to make the most of her own time in London while giving Bea a Christmas to remember.
Miles and Saoirse were polar opposites but the physical attraction was instant, something they fought since Saoirse was his employee. Miles needed to work on trusting he could have a healthy relationship with someone who truly loved him while doing what was best for Bea. Saoirse, meanwhile, beautiful inside and out, did not even realize how beautiful she was. She found joy and wonder in everything as she explored her new life in London while she devoted herself to little Bea.
I enjoyed their story for the most part, getting immersed in the London setting and feeling the Christmas spirit. I loved watching Miles open himself up to Saoirse and the possibility of love while Saoirse found her place in his world. The ending fizzled out for me a little but I think a sequel with the couple's wedding is in the works. I also didn't love the references to lockdown and typically avoid books that go there. Overall, it was fun watching Miles and Saoirse find their HEA and their story is a great way to spread the joy at Christmastime.
** 3.5 stars rounded to 4 for Goodreads **
did-not-finish
December 6, 2021Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways for the copy of the Kindle book.
I wish the giveaway had made clear that this was an ARC because for the first couple of chapters I was completely distracted by the horrible editing. Who thought it would be a good idea to put this book (even an ARC) out there with zero proofreading?? Fortunately, that issue seemed to improve as the book continued. Until I got towards the end…and found author notes about inserting a description later. Chapter 27 cuts off mid sentence. Chapter 28 is one incomplete sentence—a description of what the chapter is supposed to be about. Chapters 29, 30, and 31 only have titles. Chapters 32 and 33 are just short incomplete paragraphs. Chapter 34, the final chapter, is just a title.
So…I was headed towards giving this book a 4 or 5 star rating but I have a policy of not rating books if I didn’t finish reading them. The author’s bio on Goodreads mentions her delight with self-publishing. I think she’s got some work to do to pull that off properly. Hopefully she will figure out how to send an update to Amazon and I can read the ending of the book after she finishes writing it. It’s hard for me to fathom why she put it out there for a giveaway when she wasn’t done with it yet. I guess she was looking for 100 beta readers.
I wish the giveaway had made clear that this was an ARC because for the first couple of chapters I was completely distracted by the horrible editing. Who thought it would be a good idea to put this book (even an ARC) out there with zero proofreading?? Fortunately, that issue seemed to improve as the book continued. Until I got towards the end…and found author notes about inserting a description later. Chapter 27 cuts off mid sentence. Chapter 28 is one incomplete sentence—a description of what the chapter is supposed to be about. Chapters 29, 30, and 31 only have titles. Chapters 32 and 33 are just short incomplete paragraphs. Chapter 34, the final chapter, is just a title.
So…I was headed towards giving this book a 4 or 5 star rating but I have a policy of not rating books if I didn’t finish reading them. The author’s bio on Goodreads mentions her delight with self-publishing. I think she’s got some work to do to pull that off properly. Hopefully she will figure out how to send an update to Amazon and I can read the ending of the book after she finishes writing it. It’s hard for me to fathom why she put it out there for a giveaway when she wasn’t done with it yet. I guess she was looking for 100 beta readers.
October 29, 2024
This was absolutely adorable and I loved the London setting during the holidays. It had a perfect balance between sweet and warm moments and some steamy scenes towards the end making it a perfect read for me. Both narrators were amazing and a delight to listen to!
December 7, 2024
Short Christmas smut
Nanny x single dad
He’s not in the Christmas spirit and needs her to help create magic for is daughter
It’s was cute I kept picturing that couple in that new show rivals for some reason 😂 like the actors idk?
I would have liked the dad to have handled the end conflict a wee better considering he turns it around in under 24 hrs
Nanny x single dad
He’s not in the Christmas spirit and needs her to help create magic for is daughter
It’s was cute I kept picturing that couple in that new show rivals for some reason 😂 like the actors idk?
I would have liked the dad to have handled the end conflict a wee better considering he turns it around in under 24 hrs
Read
October 16, 2024Last Christmas was RUBBISH. This Christmas, I wanted to write a romance that immersed me and the reader in all the gorgeous festivity that is London when she's allowed to shine.
Last Christmas, the streets were empty and the shops were dark. This Christmas, my beautiful adopted city is back on form! I tried to include as many festive London traditions as I could in A Very London Christmas (my only foray into alternate reality was Harrods, which is not doing Santa this year. Boo!).
I thought it would be fun to see London's festive glory through the eyes of an outsider, a young Irish woman from County Wicklow who's only been in London for a month. For someone who loves Christmas, she's come to the right city!
Saoirse gets swept up into Miles' glamorous, rarified world when she agrees to temp as a nanny for his adorable four-year-old daughter, Bea, for the month of December. Unfortunately, he's also so grumpy that he gives Scrooge and the Grinch a run for their money, and so the nickname Grooge is born.
I hope you enjoy watching these two fall in love as they make their way from Winter Wonderland to ice skating and The Nutcracker ballet. The heat coming off the pair of them was a LOT of fun to write! And there's a bonus epilogue linked at the end of the book, as an extra Christmas present.
Enjoy and thank you for taking the time to read!
Sara
Last Christmas, the streets were empty and the shops were dark. This Christmas, my beautiful adopted city is back on form! I tried to include as many festive London traditions as I could in A Very London Christmas (my only foray into alternate reality was Harrods, which is not doing Santa this year. Boo!).
I thought it would be fun to see London's festive glory through the eyes of an outsider, a young Irish woman from County Wicklow who's only been in London for a month. For someone who loves Christmas, she's come to the right city!
Saoirse gets swept up into Miles' glamorous, rarified world when she agrees to temp as a nanny for his adorable four-year-old daughter, Bea, for the month of December. Unfortunately, he's also so grumpy that he gives Scrooge and the Grinch a run for their money, and so the nickname Grooge is born.
I hope you enjoy watching these two fall in love as they make their way from Winter Wonderland to ice skating and The Nutcracker ballet. The heat coming off the pair of them was a LOT of fun to write! And there's a bonus epilogue linked at the end of the book, as an extra Christmas present.
Enjoy and thank you for taking the time to read!
Sara
November 29, 2021
'A Very London Christmas' is a feel-good romantic comedy that I can only describe as uplifting and exquisitely sexy. If you enjoyed the likes of 'Notting Hill', 'Love Actually', and 'Sex Education' on the screen, look no further for a bit of indulgent escapism in print form this holiday season!
The characters are endearing, their lifestyle aspirational, and the plot utterly entertaining. Plus, Sara's sartorial and interior decor descriptions never fail to transport you to the most magical settings. In her latest novel, you get to experience the wonders of London throughout the month of December, including flagship attractions such as ice-skating at Somerset House, Harrods and Selfridges in all their Christmasy glory, as well as luxury restaurants and hotels galore.
I was honoured to receive a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and hence have a sneak peek before the general public. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did once it's released!
The characters are endearing, their lifestyle aspirational, and the plot utterly entertaining. Plus, Sara's sartorial and interior decor descriptions never fail to transport you to the most magical settings. In her latest novel, you get to experience the wonders of London throughout the month of December, including flagship attractions such as ice-skating at Somerset House, Harrods and Selfridges in all their Christmasy glory, as well as luxury restaurants and hotels galore.
I was honoured to receive a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and hence have a sneak peek before the general public. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did once it's released!
December 3, 2021
I'm so grateful to @saramaddersonauthor for sharing A Very London Christmas with me! To say I enjoyed it is an understatement, considering I couldn't put it down. I read it in two sittings, which honestly would have only been one had I not had the pesky responsibility of work. 😂
Saoirse feels so fortunate to have landed a job nannying for a four year old girl Bea, whom she simply adores. It's a temporary gig for the month of December, but she gets to spend the entire month living out all her Christmas dreams in London! How much better can life get?! Enter Bea's super hot, grumpy AF dad. Intially, he seems so crabby and standoffish. Saoirse can't figure him out, but she knows that he's an amazing dad who wants the best for his daughter. Saoirse respects that and grows closer to both Bea and Miles and is determined to create some happy Christmas memories for them. She's so bubbly and enthusiastic, how could her holiday cheer not rub off on Miles? As they continue to spend time together, Miles and Saoirse start to see one another through a different light and boy, is it bright.
I loved these characters. Saoirse is so positive and good natured. Everyone loves her and she's just so humble it's endearing. Miles comes off like a grump initially, but there's so much more beneath his crabby exterior. I loved getting each of their perspectives throughout the story. It was so nice to know where each of their heads were and figure out when one of them might make a move. Such perfection in the build up and tension. Seriously A+!
...and the bonus epilogue! I swoon. Pick this up now!!! I will definitely be looking for more from Sara Madderson!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Saoirse feels so fortunate to have landed a job nannying for a four year old girl Bea, whom she simply adores. It's a temporary gig for the month of December, but she gets to spend the entire month living out all her Christmas dreams in London! How much better can life get?! Enter Bea's super hot, grumpy AF dad. Intially, he seems so crabby and standoffish. Saoirse can't figure him out, but she knows that he's an amazing dad who wants the best for his daughter. Saoirse respects that and grows closer to both Bea and Miles and is determined to create some happy Christmas memories for them. She's so bubbly and enthusiastic, how could her holiday cheer not rub off on Miles? As they continue to spend time together, Miles and Saoirse start to see one another through a different light and boy, is it bright.
I loved these characters. Saoirse is so positive and good natured. Everyone loves her and she's just so humble it's endearing. Miles comes off like a grump initially, but there's so much more beneath his crabby exterior. I loved getting each of their perspectives throughout the story. It was so nice to know where each of their heads were and figure out when one of them might make a move. Such perfection in the build up and tension. Seriously A+!
...and the bonus epilogue! I swoon. Pick this up now!!! I will definitely be looking for more from Sara Madderson!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 5, 2021
Someone please turn this into a movie! I could read more and want more of their story!
December 18, 2023
This would make a very good Christmas movie. Very wholesome with some 🌶️
December 22, 2024
Never felt more single… I LOVEEE Miles
December 20, 2024
Oh ho ho!
This is now officially an annual holiday read. It gets better and better each time I read A Very London Christmas! It’s made even better in 2024 with the addition of a wonderful audio version of the book narrated by Shane East, KC Sheridan as Saoirse, and Zara Hampton Brown as Miles’ daughter, Bea. It’s divine!
A Very London Christmas is a beautiful book and my grinchy non-Christmas cheery heart grew ten sizes larger for reading it! The author, Sara Madderson, obviously loves the season and pays homage to the fact that you can never have too much bling at Christmas — in fact, I believe the challenge should be to find out just how much bling you can have!
This book is also part of the Love in London series, and features grumpy single dad, Miles, his adorable daughter Bea, and his sunshiny nanny, Saorise (the scene where Miles learns how to say Saorise, ‘Sor-sha’, is in and of itself, hilarious!) who is just the tonic this overwhelmed single dad needs. She calls him ‘Grooge,’ which I am absolutely stealing! He’s altogether in awe of Saorise’s sunshiny personality, grateful for her help with Bea, and attracted to her. And the attraction definitely pulls two-ways!
I’m a sucker for single dad romance, but there’s something so gentle about Miles. He may pretend he’s a curmudgeon, but he’s just the sweetest man I've read in many a book (maybe ever).
This one is positively steamy as their chemistry heats up in a delightfully tingly way. There are so many gorgeously funny and touching scenes between Miles and Saorise, it’s lovely.
This is now officially an annual holiday read. It gets better and better each time I read A Very London Christmas! It’s made even better in 2024 with the addition of a wonderful audio version of the book narrated by Shane East, KC Sheridan as Saoirse, and Zara Hampton Brown as Miles’ daughter, Bea. It’s divine!
A Very London Christmas is a beautiful book and my grinchy non-Christmas cheery heart grew ten sizes larger for reading it! The author, Sara Madderson, obviously loves the season and pays homage to the fact that you can never have too much bling at Christmas — in fact, I believe the challenge should be to find out just how much bling you can have!
This book is also part of the Love in London series, and features grumpy single dad, Miles, his adorable daughter Bea, and his sunshiny nanny, Saorise (the scene where Miles learns how to say Saorise, ‘Sor-sha’, is in and of itself, hilarious!) who is just the tonic this overwhelmed single dad needs. She calls him ‘Grooge,’ which I am absolutely stealing! He’s altogether in awe of Saorise’s sunshiny personality, grateful for her help with Bea, and attracted to her. And the attraction definitely pulls two-ways!
I’m a sucker for single dad romance, but there’s something so gentle about Miles. He may pretend he’s a curmudgeon, but he’s just the sweetest man I've read in many a book (maybe ever).
This one is positively steamy as their chemistry heats up in a delightfully tingly way. There are so many gorgeously funny and touching scenes between Miles and Saorise, it’s lovely.
December 3, 2021
'A Very London Christmas' is delightful! It was the perfect escape to Christmas in London and the charming story of an unlikely romance between an adventurous Irish girl and a slightly scroogish but very sexy, single dad. I thought the characters were very well developed and the best part... in addition to this book being suitably steamy, it is very funny! Sara is wonderfully descriptive in her writing and I felt transported to all the sparkly magic and glamour that is London at Christmastime. If you are in the mood for a light, but heartwarming and very romantic comedy, I recommend 'A Very London Christmas.'
Note: I received a complimentary advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for offering my honest review.
Note: I received a complimentary advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for offering my honest review.
November 7, 2024
A Very London Christmas is a billionaire, grumpy x sunshine, single dad x nanny romance, centered around the holidays!
Miles is the CEO of a hotel empire and a grumpy, single dad to his young daughter. Saoirse is the sunshiny nanny he hires to care for his daughter! This is a shorter read, a little longer than a novella, which I do prefer with holiday reads anyways. This is a pretty straight-forward single dad x nanny read with all the usual Christmas cheer, including holiday parties (Narnia-themed). We get some cute sweet moments, some spice, lots of family time, loads of holiday shopping and fun. I wasn’t as into the second half of the story and the plot involving his ex, wasn’t needed or needed lots more groveling, but it is what it is.
Miles is the CEO of a hotel empire and a grumpy, single dad to his young daughter. Saoirse is the sunshiny nanny he hires to care for his daughter! This is a shorter read, a little longer than a novella, which I do prefer with holiday reads anyways. This is a pretty straight-forward single dad x nanny read with all the usual Christmas cheer, including holiday parties (Narnia-themed). We get some cute sweet moments, some spice, lots of family time, loads of holiday shopping and fun. I wasn’t as into the second half of the story and the plot involving his ex, wasn’t needed or needed lots more groveling, but it is what it is.
December 14, 2024
A very cute, steamy, and sweet Christmas romance.
December 1, 2024
Short, sweet fluffy read. Great audio!!
December 11, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
September 12, 2025
This one was very sweet - perfect for the holiday season or anytime you want to feel that holiday magic.
With the backdrop of London during the holidays, for me, this story was a delightful single dad x nanny story, which I love, that gave me warm and fuzzy feelings. This story follows Miles, his daughter Bea and Saorise, who takes on the job of nanny.
Such a good slow burn — I was hooked immediately. Great tension and longing throughout — and in the end, this delivered a story that captured the magic of the holidays — and love.
With the backdrop of London during the holidays, for me, this story was a delightful single dad x nanny story, which I love, that gave me warm and fuzzy feelings. This story follows Miles, his daughter Bea and Saorise, who takes on the job of nanny.
Such a good slow burn — I was hooked immediately. Great tension and longing throughout — and in the end, this delivered a story that captured the magic of the holidays — and love.
May 7, 2023
Saoirse got a temp job nannying for grumpy single dad and hot hotel owner Miles. His daughter Bea is a sweetie. Her mother isn't around. Saoirse takes Bea to various Christmas activities around London and sometimes Miles tags along. She feels a strong attraction between them but Saoirse has seen Bea's mom and if that's his type, Saoirse isn't.
This is written in a third person present tense narrative which I generally dislike but once I got past that, this story packs a punch of lovely feels and has just the right amount of holiday trappings. It's flawlessly edited and a quick, easy read. Steam level: in front of Bea they call it sleepovers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Edit: It has since been re-released as a dual first person POV.
This is written in a third person present tense narrative which I generally dislike but once I got past that, this story packs a punch of lovely feels and has just the right amount of holiday trappings. It's flawlessly edited and a quick, easy read. Steam level: in front of Bea they call it sleepovers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Edit: It has since been re-released as a dual first person POV.
January 3, 2023
Keep Smiling . . .
This was a well written feel-good romantic comedy that draws the reader in from the very beginning and will keep you eagerly reading until the end. Saoirse is working temporarily for the month of December as 4-year-old Bea’s nanny for her grumpy single dad Miles. The story line moves along at the perfect pace and makes falling in love with these characters easy to do as we are quickly drawn into their lives and interactions. I liked the ending which surprised me in the best of ways. Grab your copy and find new favorites among the pages.
This was a well written feel-good romantic comedy that draws the reader in from the very beginning and will keep you eagerly reading until the end. Saoirse is working temporarily for the month of December as 4-year-old Bea’s nanny for her grumpy single dad Miles. The story line moves along at the perfect pace and makes falling in love with these characters easy to do as we are quickly drawn into their lives and interactions. I liked the ending which surprised me in the best of ways. Grab your copy and find new favorites among the pages.
December 8, 2023
Not as much grovelling as I would have wanted.
December 7, 2024
Audiobook Review
I’m still in the mood for Christmas romances, and I’m always on the lookout for new-to-me authors and narrators. This one ticked all the boxes: Hallmark fans craving a nanny/single dad tale with a touch of Christmas magic set in London will likely eat this up. Personally, I had hoped for more.
The story and its characters left me wanting. The two main leads felt too perfect—except for Miles being an unbearable snob. Both he and Saoirse are too good-looking, too nice, too generous, and fall in love—and into bed—way too fast.
Doesn’t help that the plot feels dated, with references to specific dates and the lockdown. And as I’ve mentioned in other reviews, protection isn’t just about pregnancy prevention. Then there is the last hour of the audiobook. It couldn’t recover from the predictable third-act breakup, and I found myself speeding up the playback just to get to the end.
Much of what happens is implausible, but as a Christmas fairy tale, it works to an extent. The story does whisk you away to London during the holiday season, albeit a very posh version of it, and includes several iconic sights. However, it’s the narrators’ spirited performances that breathe some life—if not originality—into the story.
This was my first time listening to KC Sheridan and Zara Hampton Brown. KC Sheridan’s strong Irish accent was enjoyable, and I liked Zara Hampton Brown’s portrayal of a spoiled but sweet four-year-old. However, her voicing of other adult female characters in a similar style felt unsettling.
As for Shane East—this was the second audiobook in a row where he voiced the main male character, and I remain mostly… well, unimpressed, I guess. His breathy delivery is very much, “I’m performing a romance novel hero,” which seems to work for many of his fans but sadly not for me. It feels exaggerated—too much. Here, it made it hard to picture Miles as the entitled Englishman he’s meant to be. I believe a more understated performance would have suited him much better. Perhaps my reaction is influenced by my years of living, studying, and working in London, as well as my frequent visits. Can’t be helped. I’m not giving up on him yet, though, as I do enjoy his “normal” delivery.
✨ Story: 2 stars
✨ Narration: 3 stars
I’m still in the mood for Christmas romances, and I’m always on the lookout for new-to-me authors and narrators. This one ticked all the boxes: Hallmark fans craving a nanny/single dad tale with a touch of Christmas magic set in London will likely eat this up. Personally, I had hoped for more.
The story and its characters left me wanting. The two main leads felt too perfect—except for Miles being an unbearable snob. Both he and Saoirse are too good-looking, too nice, too generous, and fall in love—and into bed—way too fast.
Doesn’t help that the plot feels dated, with references to specific dates and the lockdown. And as I’ve mentioned in other reviews, protection isn’t just about pregnancy prevention. Then there is the last hour of the audiobook. It couldn’t recover from the predictable third-act breakup, and I found myself speeding up the playback just to get to the end.
Much of what happens is implausible, but as a Christmas fairy tale, it works to an extent. The story does whisk you away to London during the holiday season, albeit a very posh version of it, and includes several iconic sights. However, it’s the narrators’ spirited performances that breathe some life—if not originality—into the story.
This was my first time listening to KC Sheridan and Zara Hampton Brown. KC Sheridan’s strong Irish accent was enjoyable, and I liked Zara Hampton Brown’s portrayal of a spoiled but sweet four-year-old. However, her voicing of other adult female characters in a similar style felt unsettling.
As for Shane East—this was the second audiobook in a row where he voiced the main male character, and I remain mostly… well, unimpressed, I guess. His breathy delivery is very much, “I’m performing a romance novel hero,” which seems to work for many of his fans but sadly not for me. It feels exaggerated—too much. Here, it made it hard to picture Miles as the entitled Englishman he’s meant to be. I believe a more understated performance would have suited him much better. Perhaps my reaction is influenced by my years of living, studying, and working in London, as well as my frequent visits. Can’t be helped. I’m not giving up on him yet, though, as I do enjoy his “normal” delivery.
✨ Story: 2 stars
✨ Narration: 3 stars
December 5, 2024
There was a lot I really liked about this book. Top of that list? Bea 🥰 she was honestly just the sweetest, most loveable character to read about! I adore her!
I also liked that in general Miles was very much aware of his feelings. He needed to be given a slight push to admit his interest, but beyond that he was very upfront with how he felt, considering how MMCs in this genre usually are!
I think my biggest quibble about the story was just how everything sort of wrapped up at the end. It was just way too quick to be believable or to feel organic in anyway. Miles and Saoirse go from zero to a hundred. All of a sudden they’re together on Christmas and she’s meeting his family and he’s bringing up marrying her and them living together 🤷🏼♀️ and she’s gonna be joining them on their Caribbean vacation for a month!
On one hand, I can understand that after years of being sad and hurt when his wife left him and having his eyes open to just how narcissistic she was, Miles wants to hold onto what he has with Saoirse and embrace it 100%. On the other, it just felt so rushed it was jarring 🫤 I think we could’ve had a better effect if some of those elements were putting in an epilogue that took place even just a year later.
Overall, it was a fine read, and I certainly got through it really quickly. I’ll definitely give Madderson’s books. another shot because I think there’s a lot of potential there. This one for sure peaked my interest.
I also liked that in general Miles was very much aware of his feelings. He needed to be given a slight push to admit his interest, but beyond that he was very upfront with how he felt, considering how MMCs in this genre usually are!
I think my biggest quibble about the story was just how everything sort of wrapped up at the end. It was just way too quick to be believable or to feel organic in anyway. Miles and Saoirse go from zero to a hundred. All of a sudden they’re together on Christmas and she’s meeting his family and he’s bringing up marrying her and them living together 🤷🏼♀️ and she’s gonna be joining them on their Caribbean vacation for a month!
On one hand, I can understand that after years of being sad and hurt when his wife left him and having his eyes open to just how narcissistic she was, Miles wants to hold onto what he has with Saoirse and embrace it 100%. On the other, it just felt so rushed it was jarring 🫤 I think we could’ve had a better effect if some of those elements were putting in an epilogue that took place even just a year later.
Overall, it was a fine read, and I certainly got through it really quickly. I’ll definitely give Madderson’s books. another shot because I think there’s a lot of potential there. This one for sure peaked my interest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2021
Saoirse has been working at the crèche in The Montague Hotel for the last month as a temp and her time there is nearly over. During that time she has become quite attached to 4 year old Bea, the daughter of the owner of The Montague Hotel, Miles. When Saoirse mentions she will be leaving as her temp role is nearly over Bea quite literally has a meltdown in front of her father who offers Saoirse employment as Bea’s nanny over the Christmas period. So starts a Christmas that Saoirse, Miles and Bea will not forget. Can Saoirse thaw Mile’s frozen heart? Will sparks fly between Saoirse and Miles before Christmas is over?
One of my favourite parts of the book (of which there were many) was the description of Miles’ first impression when he walks into the penthouse and sees all the Christmas decorations, from his perspective it’s like Christmas has thrown up in his home. Not one inch of the penthouse escapes even the bathroom with decorations and a Mrs Claus toilet seat cover which Bea is obsessed with. Not to mention the trip to Winter Wonderland which was memorable for so many reasons.
I started to read this book before Christmas and it definitely made me feel Christmassy and got me into the Christmas spirit. I absolutely adored the storyline. It was sweet and captivated my heart from the first page. From the first chapter I was invested in the storyline and the characters. As characters Saoirse and Miles are like chalk and cheese. She is bubbly, full of life and adores Christmas. Whereas Miles is very serious and doesn’t like Christmas. So Miles’ nickname Grooge fits him perfectly. As grumpy as he may be Miles is another hot perfect book boyfriend and it’s hard for the reader not to fall for him like Saoirse does.
As for the chemistry between Miles and Saoirse it was pretty off the scale and that was obvious from their first meeting. And of course special mention has to go to Princess Bea, the sweetest 4 year old diva ever written, who has her own driver but loves travelling by bus. I loved the slight cross over where the characters visit Sorrel Farm which features in some of the author’s other books. I was secretly hoping that they would go there and they did, interacting with characters from previous books.
I have said it before and I’ll say it again I will read anything written by this author whose stories and writing style have become a comfort read for me.
The perfect feel good romance to read before and after Christmas, with a warm storyline and unforgettable characters!
One of my favourite parts of the book (of which there were many) was the description of Miles’ first impression when he walks into the penthouse and sees all the Christmas decorations, from his perspective it’s like Christmas has thrown up in his home. Not one inch of the penthouse escapes even the bathroom with decorations and a Mrs Claus toilet seat cover which Bea is obsessed with. Not to mention the trip to Winter Wonderland which was memorable for so many reasons.
I started to read this book before Christmas and it definitely made me feel Christmassy and got me into the Christmas spirit. I absolutely adored the storyline. It was sweet and captivated my heart from the first page. From the first chapter I was invested in the storyline and the characters. As characters Saoirse and Miles are like chalk and cheese. She is bubbly, full of life and adores Christmas. Whereas Miles is very serious and doesn’t like Christmas. So Miles’ nickname Grooge fits him perfectly. As grumpy as he may be Miles is another hot perfect book boyfriend and it’s hard for the reader not to fall for him like Saoirse does.
As for the chemistry between Miles and Saoirse it was pretty off the scale and that was obvious from their first meeting. And of course special mention has to go to Princess Bea, the sweetest 4 year old diva ever written, who has her own driver but loves travelling by bus. I loved the slight cross over where the characters visit Sorrel Farm which features in some of the author’s other books. I was secretly hoping that they would go there and they did, interacting with characters from previous books.
I have said it before and I’ll say it again I will read anything written by this author whose stories and writing style have become a comfort read for me.
The perfect feel good romance to read before and after Christmas, with a warm storyline and unforgettable characters!
November 7, 2024
Star Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Single Dad
- Nanny/Boss
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Millionaire MMC
- Holiday Romance
- Sound of Music vibes
This is the perfect holiday romance that will make you smile. Miles is a dedicated single father who discovers that his daughter’s favorite daycare worker is only a temporary substitute. He offers her a nanny position, and Saoirse, having no immediate plans, accepts the job. Miles is grumpy yet charming, while Saoirse is a fun ball of sunshine. Miles and Saoirse are great together. Although there is a little heartbreak, their HEA is satisfying. Little Bea is the cutest, and her relationship with Saoirse is super sweet. I loved seeing the holidays through her little eyes. This story has the right blend of sweet and steamy moments, and all the feel-good holiday vibes.
Narration:
K.C. Sheridan and Shane East perform this audiobook in duet. I was whisked away to London and felt like I was watching a movie. Their voices were perfect for Saoirse and Miles, and I loved the accents.
Thanks to Sara Madderson, East House Productions, and Must Love Audio for the ALC. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Single Dad
- Nanny/Boss
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Millionaire MMC
- Holiday Romance
- Sound of Music vibes
This is the perfect holiday romance that will make you smile. Miles is a dedicated single father who discovers that his daughter’s favorite daycare worker is only a temporary substitute. He offers her a nanny position, and Saoirse, having no immediate plans, accepts the job. Miles is grumpy yet charming, while Saoirse is a fun ball of sunshine. Miles and Saoirse are great together. Although there is a little heartbreak, their HEA is satisfying. Little Bea is the cutest, and her relationship with Saoirse is super sweet. I loved seeing the holidays through her little eyes. This story has the right blend of sweet and steamy moments, and all the feel-good holiday vibes.
Narration:
K.C. Sheridan and Shane East perform this audiobook in duet. I was whisked away to London and felt like I was watching a movie. Their voices were perfect for Saoirse and Miles, and I loved the accents.
Thanks to Sara Madderson, East House Productions, and Must Love Audio for the ALC. Opinions expressed are my own.
November 5, 2024
🎧𝗔𝗟𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 - 𝗔 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬 𝗟𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗢𝗡 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦
♥️𝙷𝚘𝚕𝚒𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝙽𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚊
🎄𝙱𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎
♥️𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚍/𝙽𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚢
🎄𝙶𝚛𝚞𝚖𝚙𝚢/𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚎
💭If you're looking for a cozy Christmas romance to snuggle up with, this one's pretty typical but enjoyable. It's a quick listen, features fantastic narration, and offers a sweet story with some spice. The plot isn't groundbreaking; it's your classic tale of a rich, grumpy single dad who falls for his much younger, cheerful nanny. Then, out of nowhere, the ex shows up to shake things up.
Honestly, I didn’t mind the familiar storyline because Shane's narration is always top-notch and really pulls you in. However, the insta-love between the main characters didn't quite convince me, it felt a bit rushed. And the whole “Ex Wife” drama in the third act? Not my cup of tea. They didn’t actually break up, but I think Miles could have handled things better than just sending her home. Like, come on, really? That part definitely annoyed me, and I don't think he did enough to make up for it.
✨That said, despite these issues, it was still a delightful Christmas read that brings the holiday spirit. If you’re in the mood for something light and spicy, this one’s worth a listen!
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟯.𝟱⭐️ | 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟮🌶️ | 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝟱🎧
✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 MUST LOVE AUDIO 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝙰𝙻𝙲, 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨
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