Key Takeaways
1. Jilted Bride's Public Revenge
Because sometimes revenge is best cooked up in the heat of the moment.
Wedding day chaos. Sabrina, moments before her wedding, discovers her fiancé, Chad, is cheating with the maid of honor via a misdirected voicemail. Instead of quietly leaving, she decides on a dramatic public reveal. She tricks the wedding planner into playing the incriminating voicemail over the ballroom sound system for all 250 guests.
Voicemail evidence. The recording captures Chad singing to his foster kitten about getting a blow job from the maid of honor for "BJ courage" to say "I do" and securing a bonus from Sabrina's father's company. This exposes his infidelity and mercenary motives simultaneously. Sabrina then announces the wedding is off and walks out, leaving her family and Chad stunned.
Parental disapproval. Her parents are more concerned with appearances and embarrassment than her hurt. They side with Chad, accusing Sabrina of fabricating the story and being unprofessional. Her father fires her from the family business and threatens to cut her off entirely unless she apologizes, highlighting their focus on control and perfection over her well-being.
2. Finding Support and a New Start
Women helping women. I like that.
Unexpected encounter. Fleeing her disastrous wedding in her dress and mismatched Lyft driver's slides, Sabrina runs into Tyler Falcon, the hot single dad of her skating student, at a local hotel bar. She confesses everything, and he offers support, tequila, and nachos, making her feel seen and cared for for the first time that day.
Friends step up. Her friends (Leighton, Isla, Josie, Everly, Maeve, Skylar, Fable, Trevyn) rally around her, offering places to stay and practical help. They listen without judgment and celebrate her bravery in leaving the toxic situation. This network of chosen family provides the emotional and logistical support her biological family denied.
Job opportunity. Tyler's mother, impressed by Sabrina's connection with her daughter Luna, offers her the nanny position. This provides stable housing (a garden apartment in Tyler's home) and income, allowing Sabrina to rebuild her life and grow her skating coaching business after being cut off by her father.
3. Unexpected Nanny Job for the Hot Dad
You’re exactly what Tyler and the kids need.
Nanny search. Tyler, a professional hockey player and single dad, is struggling to find a reliable nanny for his kids, Luna and Parker, especially with the demanding hockey season approaching. His mother steps in to help with the search, knowing his need for someone trustworthy and good with children.
Mom's choice. Tyler's mother, Lauren, observes Sabrina's natural rapport with Luna during skating lessons. Recognizing Sabrina's kindness, reliability, and genuine care for kids, she offers her the nanny job, believing she is the perfect fit despite her lack of formal nannying experience.
Forced proximity. Sabrina accepts the job, which includes living in a separate apartment within Tyler's home. This creates forced proximity with the man she confessed her deepest desires to just months earlier, setting the stage for awkwardness and undeniable attraction under one roof, despite their agreement to pretend their hotel encounter never happened.
4. Attraction Under One Roof Leads to a "Sex Schedule"
I want you to take my real virginity.
Undeniable chemistry. Despite their initial agreement to ignore their intense connection from the wedding night, living and working together makes it impossible. The attraction between Sabrina and Tyler simmers, fueled by thoughtful gestures (like him buying her sheets and yoga gear) and accidental close encounters (like running into her in the garage in a towel).
Confessions resurface. The tension culminates in a passionate kiss on Sabrina's yoga mat. Tyler admits he hasn't stopped thinking about her confessions from that night, particularly her desire for him to show her what good sex is like
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FAQ
What’s The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely about?
- Runaway bride meets single dad: The novel follows Sabrina Snow, who flees her wedding after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity, and Tyler Falcon, a professional hockey player and single father.
- Workplace romance and healing: Sabrina becomes Tyler’s nanny, and their relationship develops amid personal heartbreak, professional boundaries, and the challenges of blending families.
- Themes of starting over: The story explores betrayal, second chances, found family, and the complexities of love in unconventional circumstances.
- Sporty, heartfelt setting: Set against the backdrop of ice skating and hockey, the book combines steamy romance with emotional growth and family dynamics.
Why should I read The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Engaging, relatable romance: The chemistry between Sabrina and Tyler is electric, with a mix of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments.
- Strong character development: Both leads are realistically flawed and experience significant personal growth, making their journey compelling.
- Fresh take on classic tropes: The single dad/nanny dynamic, jilted bride, and found family themes are given new life with a sports setting and emotional depth.
- Accessible, entertaining writing: Lauren Blakely’s style is witty and immersive, making the book a satisfying read for contemporary romance fans.
Who are the main characters in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely and what are their backgrounds?
- Sabrina Snow: A former competitive figure skater turned coach and nanny, Sabrina is independent, resilient, and healing from a broken engagement and family estrangement.
- Tyler Falcon: A professional hockey player and devoted single father, Tyler is protective, responsible, and determined to be a better parent than his own father.
- Supporting cast: Tyler’s children, Luna and Parker, play central roles, while friends, family, and teammates add humor, support, and complexity to the story.
- Rich emotional landscape: The interplay between these characters drives the novel’s themes of healing, trust, and new beginnings.
How does the relationship between Sabrina and Tyler develop in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Dramatic first meeting: Their connection begins when Sabrina flees her wedding and later meets Tyler at a bar, sparking immediate but complicated attraction.
- Forced proximity and boundaries: Sabrina is hired as Tyler’s nanny, leading to close contact and growing tension as they navigate professional and personal lines.
- Gradual emotional intimacy: Their relationship evolves from cautious respect to flirtation, vulnerability, and eventually deep emotional and physical intimacy.
- Balancing love and responsibility: They must negotiate the challenges of dating within a work environment and blending their families.
What are the key themes and takeaways from The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Second chances and healing: The novel emphasizes that love and happiness are possible after betrayal and heartbreak.
- Vulnerability and trust: Honest communication and emotional openness are central to Sabrina and Tyler’s journey.
- Family and belonging: The story celebrates chosen family, the importance of support systems, and the creation of new traditions.
- Balancing work and romance: It explores the complexities of workplace relationships and the need for boundaries and respect.
How does The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely portray the single dad/nanny and workplace romance dynamic?
- Professional challenges: Sabrina’s role as Tyler’s employee complicates their growing attraction, requiring careful navigation of boundaries.
- Mutual respect and communication: Both characters openly discuss the risks and agree on boundaries, such as keeping certain aspects private.
- Conflict and resolution: Jealousy, misunderstandings, and temptation test their relationship, but they work through issues with honesty and care.
- Realistic portrayal: The book highlights the tension and rewards of mixing work and romance, especially in a family setting.
What role do Luna and Parker play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Emotional anchors: Tyler’s children are central to the plot, influencing the pace and direction of the adult relationship.
- Character development: Interactions with Luna and Parker reveal Sabrina and Tyler’s nurturing sides and help them confront fears about family and love.
- Plot drivers: The children’s activities, such as skating lessons and creative projects, provide key settings for character growth and bonding.
- Blended family dynamics: Their acceptance of Sabrina is crucial to the story’s resolution and themes of belonging.
How does The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely address healing from past trauma and starting over?
- Sabrina’s journey: She rebuilds her life after public betrayal and family rejection, finding strength and purpose in her new role.
- Tyler’s challenges: He grapples with the aftermath of a failed marriage and the pressures of single parenthood and professional sports.
- Mutual support: Their relationship becomes a source of healing, as they help each other confront vulnerabilities and past wounds.
- Emphasis on resilience: The narrative highlights the power of connection, honesty, and acceptance in overcoming pain.
What is the significance of the “game plan” and “sex list” in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Game plan for boundaries: Tyler and Sabrina create a “game plan” to manage their relationship, setting rules like no public affection and no sleepovers when the kids are home.
- Sex list as exploration: Sabrina’s “sex list” of desires and fantasies becomes a playful, intimate way for the couple to deepen their bond.
- Balancing fun and responsibility: These tools help them navigate the challenges of mixing passion with practicality in a blended family.
- Symbol of trust: Both the game plan and sex list reflect their willingness to communicate openly and respect each other’s needs.
How is intimacy and sexuality portrayed in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Explicit and passionate: The book features detailed, steamy scenes that highlight the chemistry between Tyler and Sabrina.
- Exploration and learning: Sabrina’s journey includes discovering pleasure and confidence, with Tyler as a patient and attentive partner.
- Respect and consent: Their sexual relationship is built on mutual respect, communication, and care, modeling healthy intimacy.
- Integral to emotional connection: Physical intimacy is portrayed as a key part of their growing trust and emotional bond.
What role do family dynamics and found family play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Sabrina’s family conflict: Her parents are unsupportive and critical, leading to estrangement and motivating her to build a new life.
- Tyler’s supportive network: His mother, siblings, and friends provide humor, advice, and pressure, enriching the story’s emotional landscape.
- Found family theme: Sabrina finds support and belonging with friends, colleagues, and Tyler’s hockey community.
- Contrast and growth: The novel contrasts biological family tensions with the warmth and acceptance of chosen family.
What role do foster kittens and animals play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Symbol of nurturing: Fostering kittens brings Tyler, Sabrina, and the kids closer, symbolizing their growing family and mutual care.
- Emotional comfort: The animals provide solace during stressful times, reinforcing themes of compassion and healing.
- Building new traditions: Caring for animals together helps establish routines and bonds, supporting the found family narrative.
- Plot enrichment: The kittens add warmth, humor, and opportunities for character development.
What are the best quotes from The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely and what do they mean?
- “You deserve more than St. Bernards, sloppy kisses, and a guy who holds you back. You deserve someone who lets you shine.” Tyler’s note to Sabrina highlights the theme of self-worth and finding a supportive partner.
- “I have this whole fantasy that starts with your beard.” Sabrina’s candid confession symbolizes the honesty and excitement in their relationship.
- “You are the deal. And it’s a big deal.” Tyler’s words underscore the importance of Sabrina’s pleasure and agency, reflecting respect and consent.
- “Starting over isn’t supposed to be easy.” This line acknowledges the challenges of rebuilding after heartbreak, serving as a reminder of resilience and hope.
Review Summary
The Overtime Kiss is a highly-rated romance novel featuring Tyler, a single hockey-playing dad, and Sabrina, a figure skating coach who becomes his nanny. Readers praise the chemistry between the characters, the sweet family dynamics, and the balance of humor and emotional depth. The book incorporates popular tropes like forced proximity and found family. Many reviewers appreciated the audiobook narration by Teddy Hamilton and Brooke Bloomingdale. Overall, fans of the series and new readers alike found the story engaging, steamy, and heartwarming.
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