Baseball player. Single dad. Hot mess. No woman has ever tamed him… until now.Everyone knows Ryan Riggs—everyone who follows minor league baseball, that is. He’s the player with the hair-trigger temper, the bad shoulder, and the smoking hot looks. He’s also a single dad in need of a nanny—which makes him my new boss.Simple. Except for one thing: We had a one-night stand five years ago.We’re … one-night stand five years ago.
We’re trying to be professional. But it was one of the best nights of my life, and the more I work with him, the more I’m thinking about a repeat.
He’s battling his demons, and I might be the only one who can help him win.
He’s impossible.
He’s unforgettable.
He’s unwinnable.
Looks like I have my work cut out for me.
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Work Me Up by Julie Kriss – Ryan’s baseball career comes to a screeching halt after a shoulder injury, so he decides to move his son home so he can work in the second location of Riggs Auto. He decides that he is taking his son’s nanny with him. Kate moves into the basement apartment, and the two of them keep circling one another as they try and smooth out the wrinkles of their new life for Dylan (Ryan’s son). They make a really cute little family!! You are gonna love the Riggs family’s first wedding! Happy Reading!
So far out of this series this is my favorite! I cant wait to see what Dex’s story is all about!
I think I’ve loved each of these books more than the last!
When baseball’s bad boy, Ryan Riggs, is sidelined by a career ending injury, his life turns into a hot mess. Add in the fact that he finds out he’s now a single father to a seven year old courtesy of a hook up many years ago and Ryan knows he needs help in the form of a nanny.
Kate Washington needs a job. She may come from a wealthy family, but since graduating from college, no job seems to hold her interest and she’s broke. She also likes rebelling against what her parents expect making her a bit of a black sheep in the family, which led to her one and only one night stand five years ago . . . with the super hot baseball player that’s about to be her new boss.
Both trying to act professional, neither Ryan nor Kate can deny that their chemistry burns just as hot as it did five years ago. Both want more, but neither thinks the other wants anything more than a casual hookup. Can Ryan and Kate figure things out or will they be relegated into nothing more than a failed friends with benefits relationship when unexpected drama enters into their relationship dynamics?
I loved getting to know Ryan and Kate as they both rediscover who they really are and what they really want out of life as they dance around one another throughout this book. I adored that Ryan realized just how much he really was a Riggs and that it was okay and that his real passion wasn’t what he thought it was. And, I loved that Kate, who seemed to have it all needed Ryan and the rest of the Riggs to finally show her what it means to be a part of a family with unwavering love and support even if there is some wicked baggage to wade through. 5 stars.
I loved this book and the characters, these brothers have taken my heart!
Ryan Riggs was the handsome one of the Riggs brothers. He was supposed to do better than the other Riggs brothers, since he was a professional baseball player. And for a time he did, until he injured his shoulder and couldn’t play anymore. When this book started, he was still visiting doctors and getting therapy, trying to recover to no avail. The doctors couldn’t find what was wrong with his shoulder and he was in pain most of the time. He was also very fond of some little white pills that took away the pain.
He needed a nanny to help take care of his little boy Dylan, seven years old. We met him in the previous books and he’s a darling. He’s also an anxious little boy, who gets stressed at the mere mention of his father being absent. Ryan had to go from being a player to being a celibate dad, so his kid could feel secure.
“My son was easygoing considering all of the changes in his short life, but the one thing that made him panic was the idea of me having a girlfriend. Maybe he thought a girlfriend would take me away from him, and I was the only parent he knew. I hadn’t even had a date since he came to live with me, let alone screwed anyone or started a relationship. But Dylan had a thing about it, and every time it crossed his anxious seven-year-old mind, he looked like he was going to puke.”
When the candidate for the nanny position, recommended by a fellow teammate’s wife, arrived, he got a surprise. It was Kate, a women he’d slept with five years ago, and a very memorable experience indeed. He didn’t know she was a college student on a moment of rebellion, but he did remember being very taken with her. And now, Dylan liked her, so she’s hired.
“But as far as hotness went, she was the same woman. Better. Because now I wanted to crack her dignified shell, strip her naked, make her beg, and then make her come. In that order. There was a reason they called me the Bad Boy of Baseball.”
So now we have the classic nanny-single dad situation, except this time the guy is a Riggs brother, and little Dylan gets anxious any time his father mentions the word “girlfriend”. He wants Kate, but he wants his son to feel safe. And as far as Kate was concerned, Ryan was trouble.
“Here’s the first thing you need to know about Ryan Riggs: He’s gorgeous. Utterly, perfectly gorgeous, from his handsome face all the way down his lickable body. Seeing him for the first time is like taking a hit of helium or laughing gas. Your head goes light and your skin goes hot and you have to bite your tongue, because whatever comes out of your mouth is either going to be verbal nonsense or a high-pitched giggle. I’ve met good-looking men before, but Ryan Riggs is a man who will make you legitimately stupid.”
What I liked about this book was Ryan as a father, he took charge of his son and he changed his life to accommodate him. He considers himself as a screwup, but he’s determined his son will have a better life and a better education. He’s not a punctual person, but he tries and he’s present in all his son’s activities, sports, sleepovers with friends, school projects and homework. He’s in a huge mess, hence he needs to take care of his business, so he hires Kate, but he’s always on top of his son’s situation. I loved how he cared for his son and how proud he was of Dylan. He’s all the time saying that Dylan is much smarter than him.
His deal with Kate is a little messy because he’s her boss. They have a huge attraction that came from way back then, but it’s a little sticky. They sneak around a little but it doesn’t feel right for Kate. They’re both conflicted, Kate because she doesn’t feel like she can bag such a hot man, and Ryan doesn’t feel important enough for Kate to love. Essentially, both were being idiots, not feeling enough for the other. When something dramatic happens, Ryan needs her support, and she felt displaced. I didn’t like her reaction, it felt selfish and she abandoned them at a very significant moment. I felt she could have her tantrum later, after she helped them deal with the emergency.
There’s a lot of involvement with the family, so we get to see Luke & Emily, Jace & Tara, and a little of crazy Dex. They are beginning to feel like a family, in spite of their previous dysfunctional style.
There’s a cute scene where Ryan is working at the new Riggs Auto shop #2 that I loved: “Dylan’s favorite thing, when we were home, was to sit on my stomach while I watched TV on the sofa. He was at Riggs Auto Two with me now, and I was working under a car, and when I rolled out on my back he sat on me again, like he was sitting on a skateboard. The problem was he was nearly eight and he was pretty f-ing heavy. But I didn’t have the heart to tell him to get off. “ They are so cute together!
I loved this book, mostly because of Dylan. I liked Ryan because he cared a lot; about Dylan and about Kate. Whenever Kate got mad, he always assumed he did something wrong and immediately asked what he did wrong and apologized anyway. Kate was a little lost. She graduated with an English major but didn’t have a professional direction. She had worked various jobs but nothing seemed to fit. She took care of Dylan but refused to help around the house. She was intelligent, responsible and caring but she felt like a misfit. I liked her but didn’t like some of her actions.
The Riggs brothers keeping making me swoon more and more!! I loved Ryan and seeing his tender side, I also enjoyed Kate but Ryan made me melt!! Totally recommend!
OMG…I am so loving these Riggs brothers novels and Work Me Up, the third book in this series was no exception. This slow burn romance was Ryan and Kate’s story and what a tale it was. These two had intense chemistry and I loved the development of their relationship throughout the story. I loved the inclusion of Ryan’s brothers and the characters from the previous novels and I absolutely loved Ryan’s son Dylan. This story was funny, sweet and sexy and included tropes of single dad, second chance and sports romance into one fabulous novel. This was a fantastic page turner I would highly recommend it to all lovers of single dad romance.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel which was narrated by Savannah Peachwood and Jason Clarke. They were perfectly suited to these characters and they did an excellent job with the narration infusing the right amount of emotion where needed. It was a pleasure listening to them narrate this novel.
************ AUDIOBOOK REVIEW ************
Just like all the fellas, I’ve been waiting eagerly for Ryan’s story. I was curious about the Riggs that had gotten away, only to come back on his own and seemingly ok with it. I love that we get to check in on the previous brother’s and their women. It’s nice to see them progress and to see their happiness. Ryan seems a bit more jaded than the other brothers. I’m pretty sure that’s because he’s made it out and made some good money only to have it all ripped away from him!
The narration is fantastic and nothing but what I’d expect from Jason Clarke and Savannah Peachwood. I felt they both portrayed the character they were playing pretty well… giving fun attitudes and personalities to their characters. I have to say Clark and Peachwood do sound very delightful together… she’s soft to his firm and hard.
This is the third book in the Riggs Brothers Series, a Single Dad story and a Second Chance to Love. I haven’t listened to the first books in the Series. I love Julie Kriss writing! Ryan and Kate’s story is beautifully written, fun, and heartwarming. I loved it! Ryan is a handsome, and sexy single Dad. Kate is beautiful, loving and caring. They are great together. Dylan, Ryan’s son, is so cute! Savannah Peachwood and Jason Clarke did a great job with the narration. I love their voices together! Looking forward for more books written by Julie Kriss.
I have really fallen for these misunderstood Riggs brothers. We’ve had glimpses of sexy single dad, Ryan, and his adorable son, Dylan, and I couldn’t wait to listen to his story. Ryan found baseball to be his ticket out of the harsh life he knew. Now he is injured and may never play baseball again. The bad boy of baseball acts without thinking and that messes up his and Dylan’s life. When he hires sexy, Kate as his nanny, he never imagined how much she would affect his life for the better. Ryan and Kate had one passionate night together 5 years ago, but will put that aside for the sake of Dylan. He was deserted on Ryan’s doorstep 3 years earlier, and Dylan is afraid that if Ryan has a girlfriend, he will lose this home too. Ryan needs to put Dylan first, and that includes turning to the brothers and town he thought he left behind, but is the only place he feels whole. But how can he leave Kate behind? Kate is smart and has a college degree, but is directionless. I loved how Ryan’s quirky family draws her in, and makes her feel accepted and loved. She finally has the support and confidence to find her passion. I love how even tho these brothers had a harsh upbringing, these men are completely loyal, loving, and protective of each other and the women they love.
Savannah Peachwood and Jason Clarke narrate this moving, fun, and passionate story flawlessly. They nailed these characters perfectly, making me feel all the unease, vulnerability, hope, fun, and love they experienced. I was completely lost in their performance!
I have become so invested in this family and am so intrigued by the last brother, Dex, and am excited to listen to his story next!
Ryan is the bad boy baseball player until an injury stops his career. He also has a seven year old son named Dylan from a previous one night stand. Ryan didn’t know about him until the aging grandparents dropped him off when they could not care for him. Ryan decides to hire a nanny to look after Dylan. He ends up with Kate, who he had a one night stand with about 5 years ago. Kate is looking for direction in her life. The attraction between the couple is electric and no matter how they fight, they will end up giving into it. This was a good story.
Audible Review
Bad boy meets the good girl
I absolutely love this series. I have wrapped myself up in the hot Riggs brothers and I couldn’t wait to listen to this one to hear Ryan’s story.
He is or was the bad boy of baseball until he was injured. Now he is a single dad and barely staying above water on most days. He has still been involved with his brothers back in West Lake and helping with all the trouble that has been following them around. Now he needs help with his son Dylan because he is not making it on his own. He never expected the person that showed up to apply for the job to be the woman he hooked up with 5 years ago. He never forgot Kate and now she is back and in life and he wants more from her than being her employer.
Kate has been floating through life after college not really knowing what she wants to do. When her cousin tells her about a job being a Nanny for a baseball friend’s little boy she decides to go for it. She knows who Ryan Riggs is and more than because he is famous. She knows him intimately for a one night stand 5 years ago. He ruined her for all other men, not like there had been that many but he definitely left his mark and now she wants to be more than his Nanny.
Such a great book. This is my favorite of this series and I love them all but this gets all the feels going. I loved Ryan’s character with his flaws and heart that he keeps locked up tight. Kate makes him want to be more than a bad boy and with her help and love he gets there. I love the entire family dynamics from the other brothers and their loves and we get a better peek at Dex and maybe what’s to come for the former cop turned bad.
Jason Clarke and Savannah Peachwood are great narrating this series but I love listening to both of these voice actors. Their timing was spot on for this book.
I really enjoyed this audiobook and highly recommend it.
Work Me Up
Riggs Brothers, Book 3
By: Julie Kriss
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Savannah Peachwood
If you are looking for a family to get lost in, The Riggs Brothers is it. This is the third book in the series and they just keep getting better!!! I think every time I listen, I this one is my favorite, but honestly, this one is. Ryan is a minor league baseball player with an injury and a 7 year old! He needs help and hires Kate, the cousin of a friend and a conquest he slept with 5 years ago. Now the magic begins. There is nothing more appealing to me than a single dad, and Ryan is wonderful. He trips over himself as he tries to be the best dad he can, and it’s so endearing. Kate is compassionate and loving. But that is not what I love about her. She sees past the good looks and fame that Ryan has, and finds the best in him. Plus we get to go back and see Emily & Luke and Jace & Tara, letting us feel like we are part of the family. Loved it and can’t wait for book 4!
Savannah Peachwood and Jason Clarke are incredible as they bring this book to life. With this narration team, you can’t expect anything but greatness and they truly bring it. Give this series a listen!
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I absolutely love the Riggs brothers! Each one is so different and their stories divergent, yet the bond is there and, of course, they are all gorgeous, tough and possessing hearts of gold . Ryan and Kate’s story is magic. It’s funny, sweet, hot and a complete joy, both to read and to listen to. Jason Clarke and Savannah Peachwood are outstanding narrators. They bring the characters to wonderful life and I found myself completely immersed in their skillful reproduction of the book. It was great getting to know Ryan better and the brothers’ banter is perfect. Kate is a delight. She is kind, funny and perfect for Ryan, and for Dylan. One of my favourite listens/reads of this year!
These Riggs brothers are something to easily get caught up in. From book to book, their stories highlight their struggles with life and the reputation they are trying to overcome; but Ryan, he is trying to overcome more than just the Riggs name…
From book one, Ryan has been in the background and we have only gotten pieces of his story, but this book brings him into focus and him and his adorable son Dylan are easily the most likable so far. Yes, Ryan can be crass and he is definitely rough around the edges but he is ultimately trying to do the best thing for Dylan.
Kate has always lived her life doing what her parents told her to do, so when she gets an opportunity to do be a nanny for the one man she can’t stop thinking about, she jumps all over it. For once she is doing what she wants and it was awesome to see her grow into her own skin.
The connection between Ryan and Kate was instant but they both fought the attraction, keeping Dylan in mind. I loved watching them learn their way around each other trying to fight the inevitable; but when the tension finally snaps…holy hotness.
This whole series has been a great way to escape reality and I can’t wait to dive into the final book. They can all be read as standalone so pick a spot and jump right in. I personally recommend reading them in order so that you can enjoy each couple separately but it is not necessary!
Ryan makes my heart happy. He is the true definition of a good guy and most importantly an EXCELLENT father. Considering his background and the abuse/neglect he and his brothers suffered, it only makes me champion him more. He works so hard at being a good dad. LOVE IT!
I wasn’t sure about Kate at first. She is noticeably struggling, trying to find her purpose. I do admire that she is willing to be a nanny with her limited experience with children. Having said that she is wonderful with Dylan, Ryan’s son.
Ryan and Kate have some nummy history that only ups my need to read more. Add the transforming relationship Ryan and his brother are developing, makes me only want to read faster. How these guys rise above the low expectations of their town, fills me with glee. Hee hee they prove everyone wrong. Yes I want to immaturely stick my tongue at them all.
This is a wonderful love story with a slowburn feel but more importantly it is about the beauty of family. Just thinking about it makes me emotional. Eek.
Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
At the end of his baseball career, Ryan needs to find a nanny to help him stay on track with his son Dylan as being a single parent is not what he expected. But when Kate shows up at his door for the job, one night from years ago comes back to haunt him. Can you work for someone you had no strings attached sex with? Can you keep the relationship just as a working relationship when you can’t get the night out of your head? As each Riggs brother gets their story Julie Kriss takes them from deplorable, degenerates and turns them into lovable and misunderstood alpha males. With beautifully written characters and a storyline that was an enjoyable read from start to finish this series just gets better and better. I cannot wait for Dex’s story.
Very good fast read the sexual parts has it place and fit well.
“Ryan Riggs, world’s number one father…” 5+stars!!
I love this series and Julie Kriss did not disappoint in delivering “the bad boy of baseball, Ryan Riggs.”
Except now, Ryan is kissing his career goodbye because of an injury that’s keeping him from performing. Add to that, he never knew he had a son until three years ago when Dylan was dropped off by aging grandparents who could no longer care for him. Now a single dad to a seven-year-old boy, Ryan has been celibate ever since and is trying his best to be a good father. But Ryan is sinking, overwhelmed by daily responsibilities of caring for Dylan and working on rehabilitating his shoulder, he’s in dire need of some help. Until a teammate suggests hiring a nanny.
Kate Washington can’t believe her luck when she meets face to face with her new employer. Kate and Ryan happened to have a one-night-stand five years ago hooking up after a charity benefit. Kate’s never been able to forget about the sexy man on that blissful night. How will she be able to resist him? With Dylan’s near-panic problems over Ryan’s dating women, the relationship between Kate and Ryan have to be kept at a professional level. As they spend time together, the attraction between them is unavoidable. The chemistry is explosive once Kate and Ryan get together again. The scenes are sexy and sweet, and so hot.
Julie Kriss infuses this wonderful romance with wit and humor. I love the Riggs brothers together and how they interact, their brotherly banter is so hilarious. I especially love when Dex gets Best Man duty for Luke’s bachelor party. The story goes haywire from there. Ryan’s a great father to Dylan even though it’s a rough rendition, but he’s doing his best. Ryan is charming, hot, and so unapologetically male. I loved reading Work Me Up and it’s a great addition to the Riggs Brothers series. I received and voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.