The Au Pair Affair by Tessa Bailey (Avon) is the top holds title of the week. LibraryReads and Library Journal offer read-alikes for patrons waiting to read this buzziest book.

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. VERDICT Bailey wonderfully portrays the chemistry between Tallulah and Burgess, creating a tension-filled narrative that keeps readers captivated from beginning to end.—Michelle Mistalski

The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson (Berkley)

Appeared on the July 2024 LibraryReads list

“Hockey player Ian is seeking to rehab a sullied reputation, so he teams up with his friend’s little sister Delilah, who’s seeking to boost viewership of her cooking show. Ian’s never considered her a romantic partner, but Delilah’s had a crush on him since she was a teenager. When they reconnect as adults, their relationship quickly heats up.”—Rebecca Whalon, Lakeland Public Library, FL

Bet On It by Jodie Slaughter (St. Martin’s Griffin)

Appeared on the July 2022 LibraryReads list

“Aja meets a handsome stranger in the grocery store while having a panic attack. Walker’s not looking for a relationship, especially in his hometown, the source of his PTSD and anxiety. But Aja is beautiful, understands him, and kisses like a dream. The bingo hall setting, the senior characters, the body-positive and steamy sex scenes—so much to love in this fun, interracial romance. For fans of Talia Hibbert and Gail Honeyman.”—Elizabeth Gabriel, Milwaukee Public Library, Milwaukee, WI

Josh and Hazel’s Guide To Not Dating by Christina Lauren (Gallery)

Appeared on the September 2018 LibraryReads list

“Hazel is the eccentric, exuberant friend who’ll make you fall in love with her, and she’s not interested in being ‘dateable.’ Josh is busy being a workaholic, trying to make a long distance relationship work, and not pursuing romance with anyone else. But when his sister’s best friend Hazel blows back into his life, he is powerless to resist her genuine joie de vivre. If you’re looking for your next perfect read after The Kiss Quotient, look no further! A lovely slow burn.”—Elizabeth Gabriel, Milwaukee Public Library, Milwaukee, WI