I really enjoyed this book! The characters were lovable on their own, and together! Tallulah is such a sweetheart and I loved her character development. Burgess is a grump, but has a soft spot for her. He’s a grump but he’s not so grumpy that it makes it not enjoyable to read. He cares so deeply for his daughter who was also an amazing character. All the characters were unique.

The plot was really good and I didn’t feel like I was just reading another single dad nanny book. The whole book felt complete with no plot holes. Highly recommend!

“The Au Pair Affair" is the second book in Tessa Bailey's Big Shots series, and it picks up the steam right where "Fangirl Down" left off. (You can check out my review for the first book on Instagram, Goodreads, and WordPress.)

I've always been open about my thoughts on Tessa’s writing. Her storytelling skills are fine, but her detailed explicit scenes can be a bit much for me. That said, if you’re into steamy romances with a heat level of about 4 out of 5, then you’re in for a treat. The premise and plot of this book are a step above her usual fare.

The Big Shots series offers something a little different and intriguing. The characters are so likable that I found myself rooting for them on their quest to find true love. Just like in "Fangirl Down," "The Au Pair Affair" features fun, witty banter between the main characters, Tallulah and Burgess. Burgess is a dreamboat—I'm a sucker for the "he falls first and hard" trope, and the single dad finding a second chance at love adds an emotional punch. Plus, who doesn’t love a smart marine biologist female lead paired with a hockey player male character? This dynamic was new to me and quite refreshing.

One of the delightful aspects of this book is how it sets the stage for the next story, focusing on Burgess’ teammate, Sig, and his future stepsister, Chloe. You get plenty of hints about their relationship, which is exciting for what's to come. It was also nice to catch up with Wells and Josephine, whose love story was told in "Fangirl Down."

While "The Au Pair Affair" shows promise, Tessa Bailey’s approach to explicit content might be a bit over the top for some readers. I understand that it's a romance novel, and many enjoy the steamy scenes, but a bit of subtlety could go a long way. However, if the synopsis intrigues you, feel free to skip the more explicit scenes—you won’t miss any crucial plot points.

"The Au Pair Affair" hits bookstores on July 16th. Many thanks to NetGalley, Tessa Bailey, Avon, and Harper Voyager for giving me early access to this read in exchange for an honest review. If you’re looking for a fun, emotional rollercoaster with charming characters, this book is definitely worth checking out.

Loved it. Tessa Bailey slayed again and gave us a fun, quick, steamy contemporary story. I was hooked from the very first page and could not stop reading it.

3:75 stars

Usually Tessa’s books are an absolute hit for me but this one was a bit off.

The insta lust and level of protectiveness that Burgess felt for Tallulah didn’t feel genuine. Tallulah is rightfully distrustful of men but basically immediately felt comfortable with a very overbearing and controlling Burgess. Their relationship didn’t really make sense. She’s supposed to be the nanny but said kid was mentioned like 2x in the book.

Overall, I kept waiting to feel more connected to these two but then the third act was brutal and I just couldn’t reconcile that. Will definitely check out the rest of the series and try again!

Thank you NetGalley for the Advance Reader Copy of The Au Pair Affair by Tessa Bailey.

I’ really enjoy reading Tessa Bailey’s books and I especially liked the first in this series, so I was very happy to be allowed to preview this one. But unfortunately, this one was more miss than hit for me.

It’s sometimes funny and often steamy, exactly what a Tessa Bailey fan expects from her. This just wasn’t my favorite.

My primary issue with this book is that the characters are incredibly shallow. There isn’t much relationship development, and while there is an age gap, it’s not a shocking one (26 year old intelligent, well traveled grad student dating 37 year old athlete) but it’s written in a way that makes it purposefully uncomfortable. The characters are also overly dramatic and react in nothing but extremes - including a super wealthy, successful man with a daughter he loves deciding he has no reason to live because his girlfriend of a couple weeks broke up with him after he was a complete ass to her.

I’m definitely not breaking up with Tessa Bailey, but this isn’t one that I will revisit.

"The Au Pair Affair" by Tessa Bailey tells the story of a young woman who becomes the nanny for the teenage daughter of a famous (and single) hockey player. While the book is mostly entertaining, I found it difficult to believe in the relationship between the protagonists, which made it hard for me to connect with them. In particular, I didn't really like Burguess, and this affected my reading experience. If you're a fan of Tessa Bailey's works, you'll likely enjoy this book. However, if you're a casual reader, it might not captivate you as much.

If you like the "he falls first" trope, this is the book for you! Burgess is a man of few words with a scowl that terrifies most and a reputation in the rink of being savage. His tween daughter complicates things as well when it's made clear she has hopes of him reconciling with his ex wife.

Tallulah was not what I was expecting, honestly. She seemed a bit more flighty when she was introduced in Fan Girl Down, but has a lot more substance in this book. She's not my favorite Tessa Bailey FMC, but I do love the values she brings to Burgess and his daughter. Likewise, Burgess isn't one of my all time favorite TB MMCs either, but the man is definitely an alpha. He's kind and truly puts thought into his actions and one of my favorite things is the fact that he's mature and doesn't play ridiculous games..

There was great tension, amazing spice, and just enough angst to keep me sucked in. I'm excited for the next book in the series and would definitely recommend this to anyone!

Tessa Bailey never failssss i swear! Anytime I'm looking for a cutesy yet steamy romance I know just what to pick up.... one of her many books.
Book 2 in the Big Shots series, follows Tallulah as she is the live in nanny for Burgess a sexy hockey star/single dad to Lissa.
Tallulah and Burgess's chemistry is off the charts. I didn't know I liked single dad romances until now. It may have opened up a new obsession for me.
10000% will always recommend all of Tessa's books until my last breath!!!

Firstly, I want to give many thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager, Tessa Bailey, and NetGalley for sharing this arc with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

This second book in the "Big Shot" series by Tessa Bailey following the romance between Tallulah the quirky marine biologist nanny and Burgess the professional hockey player single dad of a 12-year-old. It includes themes of forced proximity, age gap (11 years), opposites attract, roommates, and grumpy sunshine.

He definitely falls first and messes it up (third act break up) but manages a great grovel to get their girl back and have a HEA.

While I liked this book, I found myself struggling with the characters. Tessa always delivers some great banter so that’s what really kept me going in the story. Which is why I am giving it 3.5 ✨rounded up to 4.

WOW, Burgess' mouth... and I mean that in more ways than one! 😉 That's it. That's the review.

Just kidding!

But seriously, this book had ALL the tropes that make my heart sing. Hockey romance? ✅ Age gap? ✅ He falls first? ✅ Protective/grumpy MMC? ✅ A strong/supportive friend? ✅

Even though single dad romances aren't usually my go-to, I had to give this one a try because I’ve been loving Tessa Bailey's books—they're funny, quick, and super spicy. And guess what? This one totally delivered!

Potential Spoilers Ahead! Normally, the third-act breakup can feel a bit unnecessary, but here it made total sense and was so well executed. The character growth for both leads was just chef's kiss! 👏✨

If you're looking for a swoon-worthy, trope-filled romance that’s a breeze to read, this one’s for you! ❤️📖

While I really liked parts of this story, especially the initial aspects, the ending felt a but rushed and ultimately too unrealistic. Both main character's development arcs seemed a touch superficial-- in particular, Tallulah's seemed like it could have gone a lot deeper or been more of a challenge. But nonetheless this was an entertaining and lighthearted read!

Was so very excited to read the arc for this second book in the Big Shots series, and it did not disappoint! I'm such a sucker for a sports romance, particularly a hockey romance! I loved Fangirl Down so much, but I think this one just might be my favorite in the series. I love that Wells and Josephine made cameo appearances in the story to tie things together. I particularly loved that this one had all the best rom-com spicy hilarious mayhem that we love Tessa for, while also adding a bit more substance to the story. It took some twists in Tallulah's backstory that I was not expecting, and I was here for the surprises. Definitely a 5-star read for me, and highly recommend! Thanks so much to Tessa Bailey, the publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this e-arc!

I saw that the famous author Tessa Bailey was coming out with a new book this summer and I jumped at the opportunity to read her for the first time. I have been seeing her books in all the bookshops and have been very curious.

You do not need to have read the first novel before picking this one up as they are companion novels.

To be honest, I don't think this author is for me. I was not aware of the level of spice her books have and clearly this much does not do anything for me. I like books that have more of a backstory before getting into it. The attraction was 90% physical and it felt insta lovey, with little depth. Also, I cannot get over all the red flags this man is giving and the way she overcomes a HUGE trauma with such an aggressive and inpatient man.

Overall this may have been my mistake as I like to go into books without knowing a lot about it in the first place.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Honestly, I didn’t find myself as invested in this book as the 1st in this series. The first book had such great banter and character development, but I feel like this follow up just fell a bit flat for me. It was a fine read, but I didn’t find myself as drawn to the characters or interested in their relationship all that much.

In the Au Pair affair, our FMC Tallulah is finding her footing again in life. She’s nervous around new people and new environments but for some reason not Burgess. She’s met him once before but he’s still a stranger in her eyes.
Similar to other Au pair/nanny romances you know emotions are bound to happen quickly because of forced proximity. This book was no different as our male MC comes on strong with his feelings toward Tallulah however I liked the commitment aspect added in so that this wouldn’t just be a one and done situation between them. Then, (speaking of spicy situations) if thats what you’re looking for, this book has quite a bit. There was one moment I had to pause and wonder how did we go from trust to straight chili peppers so quickly. Overall, I think this sports romance relationship was a nice read. I would’ve wished for a little more trust and relationship building but I still enjoyed it.

Overall Rating: ⭒ ⭒.5

Thank you to NetGalley and Tessa Bailey for an ebook in exchange for an honest review!
I don’t necessarily read Tessa Bailey books for the mind blowing literary prowess, or even the intriguing plot, yet somehow this one still managed to underwhelm me. As far as Bailey books (that I’ve read) go, she’s not a favorite, and I will not be reading the first installment of this series.

The Au Pair Affair tells the story of Tallulah, a graduate student in marine biology, who nannies for Sir Savage–otherwise known as Burgess–while trying her best to relearn how to live life without fear. The initial attraction, and borderline love-at-first sight in this really did not do it for me. Bailey typically writes couples that have an initial spark, but this one seemed forced and did the development of the characters a disservice.

Speaking of development, I guess not every book needs to be a slow burn, but this one set itself up to at least burn a little and fell dramatically short of that. This story promised big character flaws and development, and the pacing did not give time for these characters to come to their own. Instead, problems were solved with too much ease, and characters were developed in forced one liners so that we could get to the romance of the book. When things are rushed in this way, it really ruins the romance for me. Also, I can only read about a couple’s sex life so many times before my eyes start to glaze over.

What I’m trying to say is that The Au Pair Affair was missing something that made this romance more, or even made the pairing believable. I felt like I was being force fed their development and love story, instead of being led to feeling it. With that said, it wasn’t a boring read, and at times I really enjoyed myself. It was fun, but underwhelming. I was left always wanting more–and not in a good way.

Overall Rating: ⭒ ⭒.5

Review:

First of all, loved this hockey romance. Now Tallulah is so much fun, I knew I liked her since she show up in the first book. Definitely enjoyed her point of view and how she overcome her insecurities. Now Burgess, oh he grow up so much on this book, loved that, and how he did everything to make Tallulah feel safe, he mess up sometimes and there at the end I wasn’t sure who I wanted to strangle more her or him 🫣, but they definitely figured their shit out thanks god. Anyway definitely spicy I think I spend 60% of this book waiting to get to more, their foreplay uff 🥵. Is definitely on a more slow motion towards the spicy scenes but I love that. It reminded me to Hook, Line and Sinker in that manner. Now I cant wait to get my hands on a physical copy.

Read this if you like:
•hockey romance
•stern brunch daddy
•single dad / nanny
•age gap (11 years)
•grumpy / sunshine

I binged this so hard. I am a sucker for the single dad trope and I love me a hockey romance. This book was chefs kiss. The part about overcoming your fears brought so much depth to the story. I was literally swooning for half the this book. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the series!

Thank you Avon for the earc!

I LOVED this book!!!! So much more than Fan Girl Down (even though that one was good!) in this series. Tallulah and Burgess were made for each other from the start. The spice, the wittiness, this book was EVERYTHING!!

I can’t wait for a book on Chloe and Sig 😍

3 stars for writing, but couldn't find it in me to finish... just couldn't connect to characters.
I will recommend to others, because the author is well loved in our store.