Finding Family

<b>3 Stars</b><br /><br /><a href="https://goodreads.com/book/show/29990320.Finding_Family" title="Finding Family by Connie Bailey" rel="noopener">Finding Family</a> is part romance, part family drama, with a dash of mystery and suspense thrown in for good measure. It also embraces the classic millionaire-falls-for-the-nanny trope, but with an M/M spin. <br /><br />After a life sheltered away living and then working at an orphanage, Jon’s whole world shifts when he moves to the big city to begin caring for three wealthy children who have also lost their parents and are now living with their busy and detached older cousin, Charles. <br /><br />Jon gets on fabulously with the kids and they adore him in return, but his connection with Cousin Charles is a little more complex. They share an attraction, but their roles as employer and employee make things a tad more complicated. Jon keeps at a distance as best he can, focusing all his attentions on the well-being of the children, but when a financial crisis leads to Charles abruptly whisking Jon and the kids away to a secluded cabin the woods, dynamics swiftly begin to shift and true romantic feelings begin to grow.<br /><br />The suspenseful elements of the story were a bit farfetched and too predictable, but it definitely added some excitement and drama to the plot and allowed some of the characters to come out of their shells a bit.<br /><br />Unfortunately, it was the romance between Jon and Charles that left me feeling the most indifferent. I liked Jon well enough, even if he was perhaps a bit too sweet and perfect for my liking, but Charles never managed to win me over - if anything, I grew to dislike the guy at an increased rate as the story went along. He came across as unappealingly conceited and selfish and even callous towards the children, and I simply didn’t understand what Jon saw in Charles that would make him fall in love so easily. As far as I’m concerned, they didn’t share any remarkable connection on page either, so by the time they were confessing their love (and getting it on OFF PAGE) I was pretty much over it and ready to move on.<br /><br />What I did really enjoy was the relationship Jon seamlessly formed with the children, all of whom provided good humour and thoughtfulness to the story that I much appreciated. It’s rare I warm to children in my romance reads, but these kids were probably the highlight for me here and I believe they added something special to the story at large.<br /><br />This was fairly standard fare where the Dreamspun Desires stories are concerned. The story provided nice and easy reading, but was perhaps a little too sweet and simple for my personal tastes, with characters that were kind and caring but not all that memorable when all was said and done. <br />

While this surely reads as a grand romance/suspense/thriller/family story, I had a bunch of niggles with this. <br /><br />I'll start with those:<br /><br />- Jonathan, the manny/virgin/orphan, who was just too perfect. Sweet, kind, loving, great with the kids, loyal, smart - there wasn't a single flaw to him, and while that may have worked for me in my younger years, it no longer does. While I surely liked him, his perfection was almost a turn-off.<br /><br />- Charles, the millionaire/uncle/employer, who hires Jonathan to look after his nieces and nephew, three young kids he 'inherited' along with his clothing empire. Charles is a bit too busy running his business and dallying with his boyfriend, and also doesn't understand children, so he foists them off to the manny. I disliked him so hard initially that he had a hard time gaining my approval later in the book.<br /><br />It was sticky sweet romance mixed with well done action and suspense, and while I had my niggles, it worked for the most part. I enjoyed reading about Jonathan's time with the kids, and I enjoyed watching him and Charles fall in love. A bit fast on Charles' part, perhaps, but whatever, that was expected. This is Dreamspun Desires, after all, and ooey-gooey HEA is mandatory.<br /><br />The mystery/suspense/what's happening was much better done, IMHO, and I had the wrong suspect for most of the book. I was actually surprised that the person whom I suspected wasn't the one who'd 'done it', and that was well done, indeed, by this author. <br /><br />So the action and suspense parts of this story worked better overall, at least for me, than the romance, and the various side notes with Jonathan's basket-weaving hobby, and Charles' somewhat snobby and slightly creepy PA, and the kids being kids, for the most part, were contributing most of the charm to this book. Nice title, too, because in the end, it's all about finding (and making) your own family. <br /><br />So, I liked it. I enjoyed it. And my niggles are mine, so don't let that deter you from giving this book a try.<br /><br />Overall, I wouldn't call this book not worth your effort - I enjoyed reading it, and it had some funny, giggly moments.<br /><br /><br />** I received a free copy from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **

Well, this isn't the most ridiculous romance I've ever read, but it's in my top three. It sounds cute, but it just doesn't work.

What an absolutely delightful story! It has everything I wish for every time I read a ‘Dreamspun Desires’ title. There’s a great cast of characters from Jon, the manny, and Charles, the billionaire businessman, to some very precocious kids, and from loyal friends to slimy, ruthless enemies. There is also lots of humor that caused small smiles and big out-loud laughs and everything in-between as I was reading. And not to forget, there is an intriguing plot around big business, embezzlement, and even kidnapping. It certainly kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat. I wanted to find out who was behind the nefarious plan to destroy Charles and was willing to take Jon right along with him. <br /> <br />Jon is almost too good to be true. He’s an orphan who was raised by nuns, and he is no stranger to dealing with children. He is patient, clever, has a sense of humor, and is extremely professional. That is why he gets hired by Charles, and everyone quickly discovers exactly how wonderful Jon is. His respect for the children and how he involves them in everyday decisions convinces them he is much better than the twelve nannies they’ve had to endure in the last five years since their parents died. Jon’s quiet insistence on Charles getting to know his wards better takes a little longer to help Charles see the light, but Charles eventually gets there. And when everything falls apart, Jon is the one who holds them all together. His humble, unassuming way even continues when he is thrown into jail.<br /><br />Charles may be the rich owner of a clothing empire, and he does take good care of his employees, but he has some personal walls around himself that aren’t easy to get through. Not that I can blame him – he has lost his parents and his uncle within a short period and is now “saddled” (his words not mine) with three young children. It takes losing a large part of his fortune, doubting his steadfast friend and lawyer, Albert, and fleeing to a cabin out in the woods for him to come to his senses, not just about his priorities in life in general, but about Jon in particular.<br /><br />While Jon and Charles are definitely the primary focus of this story, they are very ably supported by the people in their lives. Jon’s quotes of what Sister Grace would do in any given situation range from hilarious to extremely useful. Charles’s best friend, Bunny, is a man he has known since preschool and the kind of friend worth his weight in gold. Then there is Albert, whose duties range from those of a lawyer to those of a butler and personal assistant. And not to forget three of the most adorable kids I have ever met – Madeleine who is twelve going on twenty, Holland, who is a genius with a fixation on bugs, and Juliane, who is too cute to be true.<br /> <br />If you like romances that sweep you off your feet, if two men dealing with themselves as well as young children sound like fun, and if you’re looking for a read that is funny, heartwarming, and very, very amusing, then you will probably like this novel as much as I do. This one goes straight into my reread folder!<br /><br /><br />NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on <a href="http://www.rainbowbookreviews.com/book-reviews/finding-family-dreamspun-desires-by-connie-bailey-at-dreamspinner-press" rel="nofollow noopener">Rainbow Book Reviews</a>.

Note: This <b>audiobook</b> was provided to me through <a href="http://heartsonfirereviews.com" rel="nofollow noopener">Hearts on Fire Reviews </a> in exchange for an impartial review. <br /><br />Those who follow my reviews know I love, love, love the Dreamspun Desires stories, primarily because they remind me of my teen years, curled up on my sofa with a decadent (at the time) romance novel. Unfortunately, this one did not have the same feel or the same quality of others I’ve enjoyed. <br /><br />The story itself is mostly unbelievable and here’s partly why: A twenty-something, good-looking man, orphaned at birth, remains at the orphanage/shelter to “help out” with chores. Later in the story he reveals that he took childcare courses, however, that was not evident at the time he was hired by a pretentious, and totally obnoxious, attorney cum PA for the wealthy and clueless Charles Macquarrie, who needs a “manny” for his neice and two nephews, for whom he now has custody. Oh, and by the way, this gorgeous guy is a virgin. <br /><br />I’m not even going into details about the totally ridiculous setup that occurred and Charles’s complete willingness to “go on the lamb” with the manny, Jon, and the kids. On a fun side note, I knew they were in Pike County in PA the moment the author mentioned crossing the border into a new state, and especially when “Dingman’s” was mentioned. Unfortunately, most of the departments and job titles in this story are way too metro for that rural county, so I had to suspend belief there. <br /><br />And what bugged me most was Charles and his boozing. There was rarely a scene throughout 90% of the book that didn’t feature Charles either drinking or drunk, and there were a few mentions of his father’s and his uncle’s alcoholism. I was happy to hear the author allude to a “predisposition” to the disease, but I was immediately irritated by the preposterous idea that “will power” was involved. Even more so later in the story, when Charles admits his drinking is out of control, and then Jon tells him he can have wine with dinner because Jon knows Charles has enough will power to be able to stop. Honestly? If that were the case, there would be no need for 12-step programs and treatment centers. I won’t rant about this here but the info in this story is wrong, very wrong, and obviously a hot button for me. <br /><br />Moving to a positive note, John Solo has greatly improved as a narrator since I first heard him. I really enjoyed his many vocalizations in this one—from the snide, snarky voice of Albert, the attorney/PA; to the snobby, snearing voice of Cretienne, the ex-boyfriend; to the voices of both girls. But I absolutely loved the voice of Holland, the smart, funny, outrageous young boy, the most. It fit his character perfectly and often caused out-loud chuckles, something embarrassing when you’re in the presence of others who don’t know you have your audiobook earplugs in. :D <br /><br />Because of Mr. Solo’s narration, I’d move this up from 2 hearts to 2.5. This is not a story I would recommend, however, if you are picking up as many of these Dreamspun shorts as I am, choose the audiobook for this one and you won’t be disappointed that you did. <br />

This was not good, and I am seriously considering cancelling my subscription. There was no chemistry between the characters, you did not get see their relationship develop and there was no sex scenes, so you did not get to see any intimacy between the mcs either. This book was boring, with an unbelievable plot, that jumped from one silly twist to another. Very disappointing.

Charles Macquarrie is a wealthy clothier that not only inherited his families business but his three young cousins. He has been through 12 nannies in less than 5 years and not sure what to do. His assistant Albert has hired a new one, this time, a young man from a Catholic orphanage.<br /><br />Jon is quite content with his life but his Sisters think it's time for him to venture out, and this job seems to be a perfect opportunity for him, and it sounds the three young children need him. Jon is attracted to the wealthy businessman before they meet but knows he is a playboy and straight from all the pictures he sees.<br />Charles can't believe how well the kids take to Jon and how well they act. He soon finds himself attracted to the enigma that is Jon but can a playboy change and actually have a family?<br /><br />Ok. This one is hard for me tor rate, so I went with my heart. There is a touch of mystery here as to the embezzlement and kidnapping charges. There's quite a few gaps, and I was left with several questions a to how this person pulled this off. I can't explain without spoilers. If I was rating on that I would give it a 3.<br />Now having said that...Jon, and the kids are absolutely charming. Charles is dashing and though a playboy he too has a good heart and was put in this position at a ver young age. The romance is sweet and clean and heartwrenching at times. I picked up the story in the afternoon and stayed up till the wee hours reading it. And that's why I have to rate this a 4. <br />If you are looking for a captivating sweet romance with a touch of mystery, and like stories where the kids have a good part I recommend this.<br />I received a free copy for an honest opinion

up to half I liked it a lot then the story took a turn that I did not like at all. what a shame!

Another fun book in the series. I know I keep saying that but it’s true.<br><br>I sometimes do this thing where I don’t read the entire blurb for books. It’s weird, I acknowledge that but it’s what I do and with this I am happy I did and I’ll explain why a bit later.<br><br>Jonathan Lamb, talk about a fitting name, is a lovely young man who grew up in a children’s home and raised by nuns. When Job comes of age, he takes on a job at the home instead of leaving as it’s the one place he feels he belongs. When a job offer arrives to be a nanny to three young charges of a wealthy man, Jon interviews, gets the job and the move to the Big Apple happens.<br><br>Charles, I sincerely liked. From the beginning you feel for him as he runs the family company and tries to honor his late father’s memory. You feel for him as he skirts around the details of his sexuality with his personal assistant and attempts to keep a foot in the closet. The moment when Charles realizes that he, Jon and the kids are all orphans tugged at my hopeless romantic heart strings and while it was predictable at times, his path to Jon was a joy to watch. Even Charles’ drunk moments were insightful though one time I wish Jon would have tossed something at him…for reasons.<br><br>I loved Jon and need to channel his abilities with kids when I am dealing with my own. I loved that this story was a bit different with Charles being the cousin to the kids and not the lonely widower. It leant a new twist on his need for Jon and his true detachment from the kids. But of course, you don’t bring someone like Jon – caring, adorable, trustworthy, and able, a culinary artist in the kitchen – and not have your life changed.<br><br>The kids were well written. Holland was a forward and bright young man who I am so glad never fought against Jon being there. Madeline has a strong head on her shoulders yet was still the young girl whose life would end at missing a party and then there is Juliana who I just want to cuddle the heck out of and kiss her cheeks. The kids were all an essential part of the story and never took from Jon and Charles’ relationship, but added more because as the title says, this is a story about finding family.<br><br>Now back to me not reading blurbs, I am so glad I didn’t because when Charles whisks Jon and the kids out of town to a remote cabin and police show up at the door with accusations of kidnapping I was gasping under the covers trying not to wake my husband. I went back and read the blurb and sure enough it’s there but it was such a surprise for me and I love that.<br><br>The story had moments that were predictable and some that weren’t which made this a fun read. A few niggles with the head hopping, though it could have been my review copy, the lack of a real romance and not exactly feeling the chemistry between the two men and not really getting into Jon’s birthmark and why the blurb mentions it makes it a chronic illness but other than those small things, this was another fun read from the Dreamspun Desire series.<br><br><blockquote> <blockquote> <blockquote> <a href="http://ohmyshelves.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"> <img src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1454433172i/17961792.png" width="100" height="100" alt="description" class="gr-hostedUserImg" loading="lazy"> </a> </blockquote> </blockquote> </blockquote>

When Charles Macquarrie finds that his bachelor life is changed forever when he inherits a fortune, an international clothing company and his three cousins, he finds life as he knows it changed forever. He needs help in raising his cousins so he seeks out a nanny and finds Jonathan Lamb, a man who spent years in a children’s home due to a chronic illness and seems perfect for the job. Jon loves helping the kids and finding his way in a world filled with money, power and a boss who stirs things in him. But before he can even entertain those clandestine thoughts about Charles, he is on the run with his boss and charges, accused of embezzlement and kidnapping. Now it’s up to Jon and Charles to figure out how to keep their little family together and vanquish the bad guys before its too late.<br /><br />I fell in love with Jon and Charles after the first chapter. The author does an amazing job capturing the hidden vulnerabilities of each character and letting them come out within the story. The cast of characters is highly enjoyable, well written and kept me entertained for the entire length of time I was reading FINDING FAMILY. With the right amount of angst, romance, suspense and action, the readers are treated to a story that steals your heart when you least expect it to. The story flows smoothly and quickly, leading the reader into one wonderful scene after another. I couldn’t put it down. I needed to know if Charles, Jon and the kids would be okay.<br /><br />Meet Charles and Jon. Two of the unlikeliest of people to fall for one another but I got to admit the sparks flew when these two meet for the first time and continue even as mobsters and being on the run become their new normal. I love how the author keeps Charles and Jon real in a sense that even though they didn’t fall into bed with one another right off the bat, the author does a great job in keeping that romance on simmers while at the same time building up those sparks rather well. The secondary characters kept the story light-hearted and made me laugh at times in pure enjoyment. The characters are spectacular and fairly brim with life.<br /><br />FINDING FAMILY is a sweet romance that will surely melt your heart. I can’t wait to see what this author follows up next for their readers in the future. If you are looking for a sweet romance that will make you melt, then try FINDING FAMILY and settle in to get your heart stolen by some amazing characters and a story that just sucks you in until the very last page is read. <br />