The Au Pair Affair

Bailey offers a compelling addition to her “Big Shots” series (following the series opener, Fangirl Down). The plot of this second installment revolves around the unlikely relationship between 26-yearold marine biology grad student, Tallulah Aydin, and a seasoned hockey player and newly single dad, Burgess “Sir Savage” Abraham, who is 11 years Tallulah’s senior. They meet when a broke Tallulah takes a side gig as live-in nanny at Burgess’s house, caring for his tween daughter (who wants her parents back together). Tallulah tries to help Burgess start dating again, but they start to develop feelings for one another. Then an injury tangles them in a web of emotions, causing heartbreak and misunderstandings. Burgess decides to win over the love he never knew he needed. One of the novel’s strengths is its sensitive portrayal of Tallulah’s traumatic past after moving from Istanbul at a young age. Bailey addresses this aspect with grace, adding depth to Tallulah’s character and making her journey towards healing a significant part of the narrative. The steamy novel also emphasizes the importance of respect and consent in relationships.