Sam has a secret he holds close to his heart… termination.
Sam Davidson has pined for Joy since the first time he saw her sweet smile and stunning eyes. But there’s a secret that the shy IT developer holds deep inside: Sam is still a virgin. At twenty-nine, he never intended it to happen, but accepts that he could never please Joy in all the ways she deserves.
Sam can offer her a job, though, and proceeds to help Joy rebuild her life after the unfair firing. As their work relationship grows, Joy is taken with Sam’s kindness, gorgeous crystal-hazel eyes and generous smile. And his hands…oh, his firm, broad hands…
Joy can’t figure out why Sam resists the desire that sparks so vividly between them, but Valentine’s Day is coming and she’s determined to seduce him and make them both burn. Even if it means discovering all his secrets…
Inexperienced hero trope lovers unite! This is a fun, fast-paced, steamy novella from an author who wanted to flip the script and write about a sweet, sexy, inexperienced male main character. Sam is so adorably sensual and endearing, he might just melt your heart. Here’s wishing you a fantastic Valentine’s Day all year round!
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Great storyline about the romance between Joy, an independent and bright executive assistant, and Sam, the shy, nerdy hot IT guy. Fate brings them together when Sam rides to the rescue and sparks start flying. Unbeknownst to Joy, Sam is a virgin and when he tries to resist their undeniable chemistry, Joy becomes more determined than ever to seduce him…. I was also so happy to find the continuation of Kayla and Carter’s story. It was a very enjoyable and riveting read. Now, on to the third in this trilogy for Laura’s tale.
*review for audible version*
I love Sam and Joy! I loved that Sam was the inexperienced hero. I don’t know why but it just made him so much hotter. I was swooning so hard for him. It did not take him long to turn into a dirty talking, sex God. It was all Joy and her influence and corruption on him. I was so upset with all the things Joy went through. And then Sam came to save the day, just the biggest freaking sweetheart and hottest nerd EVER! The sexual tension was just on fire. I was wrapped up in this story and never wanted it to end! You’re going to love it just like I do!
Her Valentine Surprise
Manhattan Holiday Loves, Book 2
By: Ayla Asher
Narrated by: Kai Kennicott, Wen Ross
What a refreshing story! I love Ayla Asher’s books, each taking a place around a holiday. What better holiday than Valentine’s Day for a romance? But this is not an ordinary romance. Joy is an ambitious worker. Infatuated with her good looking boss Drake, the day comes that he asks her out! Only her rejection ends up getting her fired. Coworker Sam, who works in IT has longed for Joy. He is starting his own company, and with Joy by his side, it may just work out. But will he act on his feelings? Sam holds several secrets that may end his chance with Joy before it starts! This is a fun listen! I love the whole premise. The friendships with Joy, Kayla and Lauren are strong and it’s fun to have them move from book to book. Joy is a great character. Though she seems quiet, the girl has spunk and she is not going quietly. Sam is insecure, and watching his self assurance build is gratifying. It’s a wonderful story of growth, self awareness, love and humor. Asher comes through with steamy scenes and a true love to stand the test of time.
Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross narrate this gem, and they are incredible as always. Their chemistry shines through and makes the couple realistic. I love Kai as Joy. She gives her spunk, and I love her inflections of love and patience with Sam. Wen has his normal experienced alpha flipped to the insecure Sam and he nails it. He is fantastic bringing him to his true self. This team is always wonderful and I know when I start the book, I am coming home.
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Excellent Story & Narration Riveting & Heartfelt!
Her Valentine Surprise
Manhattan Holiday Loves, Book 2
By: Ayla Asher
Narrated by: Kai Kennicott, Wen Ross
Ayla Asher pens another wonderful novel in her “Manhattan Holiday Loves” series, this is the second book in the series and I loved it as much as I loved the first one. It is well written with interesting and original storylines that are captivating from start to end. I like that each book in this series focuses around a holiday and that this is not just a holiday romance, it is so much more and a book that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Each of the books feature another character from a triage of great friends, Kayla Summers, Laura Cunningham and Joy Paulson. I love the friendship and the closeness of these three woman. The book is Joy’s story, she is a hard worker and has worked her way up to a nice salary in her position, as an added bonus she gets to work for the hottest guy in the company, Drake. But when he asks her out and she declines him he turns on her and she winds up losing her job. One of the IT guys, Sam, who always came to her rescue when her computer crashed comes to her rescue once again offering her a new career opportunity. Sam had a thing for Joy from the first time he laid on eyes on her but he lacked the confidence to ask her out, his inexperience in the bedroom has left him insecure and has put a damper on his love life, it makes him feel like she deserves so much more than he could offer. When the two start spending more time together Joy wants more, the chemistry between them is undeniable but he pushes to keep his distance whenever they get close. I admired Joy’s determination to have him. I loved how everything plays out in this book, the story is nicely plotted and there is never a dull moment with plenty of drama, a touch of angst, some great humor, lots of heartfelt and emotional moments, some great sexy times & a great romance. Ayla Asher, thank you for another great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross are talented narrators and voice artist. They continue to bring these character to life, giving each their own voice and personality. Their portrayal of the characters is spot on, sounding just as I picture them to sound . They are an awesome duet team and you can hear how much heart they put in to their work as they capture the characters emotions and project them into their performance.me du They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another wonderful listen
In the second book of this three book series, we find Joy and Sam. The author paints a vivid picture of the different stages of their relationship. Her characters are well rounded and the plot well developed. I couldn’t be more pleased that I found this author, who is definitely a go to when choosing a sizzling romance, with that blissful happily ever after. I can’t wait to get started on the third book of the series. On to the next.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own.
Whoohoo omg I never thought I fall In love more on Valentine’s Day . Ayla Asher omg I so freaking speechless. I’m totally blow away. And the audio wowow so freaking sexy. And that voice wow I felt it in my bones. I was honor receiving this book as a arc audio and love it. Plus I going to have to buy the paperbook to own. You think books are what to you hear it on audiobook it was fantastic. The story the characters were amazing.
Sam was a virgina and fell in love with joy. Until he found something on her boss computer that would harm Joy. He was very shy and plus know he was a Virgin he didn’t now how to approach her. Sam was a tech guy from the company. Joy always has some problems with the computer. dam decided to ask her boss to replace her computer it needed a update Sam please the order to the computer for Joy.
Joy love her job special she couldn’t stop looking at her boss. Until he ask her out one day and told she only have to do sign paperwork that say their relationship would t affect work. Will Joy didn’t like it at all. Joy decided to be just friends at work. Well just say her work got worse until she lost her job. Damn felt bad what happened to Haoy and decided bro help her.
The romance omg Ayla it was wowo.
I recommend this book I totally to and I don’t say it a 5 I say it a 10 . Love how everything click to the story and special the ending how it ended. Th m you once again Ayla Asher you truly outdone your self . And I believe it is a very special day thank you
An steamy first love story. Sam has had a crush on Joy for three years so when she is fired he takes the chance to help her and start his own company. Can they help each other in more than one way? Good audiobook
Another fun story by Ayla Asher! This story is about Joy and Sam. She is fired from her job and Sam, the IT guy comes to her rescue. Their attraction grows and they get their HEA! Along the way some things are overheard and secrets found, but they work through it. It was great to catch up with Kayla and Carter from the first book, I’m excited for the next book. I love books with strong relationships and these always have that. There is a lot of adult language and activity, so if you like that this book is for you.
Secrets and Solutions
I really like this book and series. Joy may think her boss is hot but that doesn’t mean she’s interested in dating him. When things head south after she turns him down, the real fun begins. The story of her redemption in the business world and the beginning of a new adventure with Sam, personally and professionally, is reaffirming, sweet, and adorable. It’s is also… mmm… sizzling. They have great chemistry and camaraderie. There are bumps but I like how they manage them.
There are crossover characters from the first novel in the series but you can read or listen to this as a standalone. Speaking of listening, I listened to an author gifted copy of this book. Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross are terrific at the mic.
Ayla Asher’s audio books are dual narrated with each narrator maintaining their character no matter whose POV the chapter is under. I LOVE THIS! It’s a seemingly small thing but it makes a world of difference to the experience. It takes extra editing but I appreciate it.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
This was a fun, fast, steamy read and just what I was looking for. I adore Ayla Asher’s books and this one did not disappoint. This is the first time I’ve read a slightly nerdy male MC and I loved him! Sam is beyond swoon worthy! I’m looking forward to reading more from this awesome author.
I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic Valentine’s Day read! Loved that the H was the inexperienced one. It was so fun to watch their relationship grow. Learning together their likes and preferences. Communication was their key.
Wen Ross and Kai Kennett did a fantastic job performing these characters. Their voices and expressions were spot on. So sexy and so easy to listen to.. They made these characters come alive. A five star plus listen!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Story Origin.
What can I say? I love a good straight forward contemporary romance set to a holiday theme. This author knows how to make you fall in love with her characters and suck you into her writing almost as if you were literally the female lead character. She has a flow that is steady and easily followable. Sam and Joy have such a cute dialogue. All around the second book did not disappoint ( I believe we can call this a standalone, but it also follows along with a set of characters, you just don’t have to read book 1 to jump into this.) I hope to see more of Sam and Joy in the future even if it is only a quick update novella.
Wow wee!!! This book, Her Valentine Surprise by Ayla Asher was such a very steamy story about Joy and Sam. They both worked together and Sam had really liked Joy ever since he started there a couple of years ago. Joy liked her boss, but he was arrogant and when she denied going out with him, he fired her. Sam and Joy were friends and started up a company together. But Sam had a secret and was horrified for Joy to ever find it out. I really loved how the narration between the characters were. They really got into the story and you could hear the passion in their voices. Sam and Joy were a fantastic couple and I really hoped that they would get and stay together. I received an ARC of this story via Audible from StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest opinion. I loved it and would highly recommend reading and listening to it. The narrators did a wonderful job telling the story.
Book 2 in Asher’s Manhattan Holiday Loves series. This book is the story of Sam and Joy. This is a beautiful romance that is sweet and steamy and perfect for Valentine’s day! I love the characters – Sam is just the sweetest and Joy is so open. I adore the bond Joy has with her besties and Carter is a blast with his 2 cents. The growth that these two have as characters as well as in their relationship is great. I loved the open communication and emphasis on how important that is. A great read with good characters, storyline and flow. Dual narration is awesome – I loved it and felt it brings more of these characters emotions to life – very well done!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
I am a sucker for a holiday romance. Honestly I don’t think the holiday matters but with Valentines on the horizon, I couldn’t help but dive into this holiday love story. It’s adorably cute with a side of nerdy! A hunky computer nerd in love with an assistant done wrong and hopes to help raise her spirits turns into so much more. I loved the flow of this story and the heat while a slow burn explodes when it sets in. The dual narration is great and the voices are smokin! This is a novella so what I consider a quick listen which works out perfectly for some chores and a long walk!
Joy and Sam are colleagues when they meet. After Joy declines to go on a date with her boss, Drake, she’s fired. Luckily Sam makes her an offer to come and work with him. Sam is starting his own business and want to quit his job anyway.
After I read the blurb I wasn’t sure if I’d like the fact that Sam was still a virgin at 29! But it wasn’t awkward at all and I truly loved the whole story! I also loved all characters and the way Sam fitted in well with Joy’s friends. And I liked the ending!
Her Valentine Surprise is #2 of Manhattan Holiday Loves. Joy is BFF’s with Kayla (from #1 His Holiday Pact) and Laura (#3 Her Patriotic Prince), but you can enjoy it as a standalone story.
This review is based on the audiobook. It’s in duet narration and the narrators, Kai Kennicot and Wen Ross, did an amazing job (again)! 5 stars for the narrators.
This is the second book in the Manhattan Holiday Loves Series. This is a sweet and sexy romance. The storyline is original. Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross did a great job with the narration. Looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series, Her Patriotic Prince. I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review
Another great story. And perfect for an afternoon listen
Read really well by Wen and Kai. Although it’s only 5hrs long, you get the whole gamut of emotions.
Joy is a hard worker, good at her job, the perks are great, but not as good as the view from her office! Joy has a huge crush on her boss! She’s in love, and often has dreams of him sweeping her up into his arms and professing his undying love to her!
I loved Joy, her humour had me chuckling as I listened.
And when Drake (her boss) asks her out, it’s like all her dreams have come true. But the wording Drake uses has Joy on edge! It sounded like a proposition not a date! She needs her friends opinion now!!
Both Lauren and Kayla were in the first book. Kayla in fact was the main character in that book. (His holiday pact)
It’s a series, that’s best read/listened to in order, but if you just read/listen to this one, then it won’t matter.
Sam is narrated by Wen Ross, I could listen to that man read a dictionary! His voice is magic!
Sam is an IT guy in the firm that Joy works in. He’s got the biggest crush on Joy, but he knows she won’t look at him, she’s in love with Drake!
We listen to Joy battle with her emotions, she’d love to date Drake, but is worried it’s not going to go well, so she turns him down! And from there it all falls apart…..
Being dismissed from her job was not what Joy had expected!
But Sam comes to her rescue and offers her a job.
The audio was just so much fun to listen to. I’m a big book fan, so I’m going to get this for my kindle.
I loved Joy and Sam together, and I loved listening to Wen and Kai.
Joy’s professional life has crumbled. Losing her job after refusing her bosses advances left her in a tough position, but her friend Sam, the shy IT guy, just might be the silver lining of the situation.
Ayla Asher knows how to write steamy and touching romances. Her characters are likeable and the storyline really pulls you in.
The duo of Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross deliver a great performance. They really bring out the chemistry of the characters.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
This was a great addition to the series. The characters were endearing and kept me entertained. The narrator did a great job of bringing the story to life and made this a pleasant listen.
I received a copy of the audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.