HJ Recommended Read!

If you are up til the wee hours in a manic sleep-deprived state courtesy of motherhood, career demands and the weighty burden of perfectionism, then this is definitely the novel to keep you company before you fall into a pit of exhaustion.

Rachel, accidental mother of twin boys, is relatively happy with her co-parenting arrangement save for the fact that her ex-husband Gavin appears to be increasingly flaking out in favour of his new fiancé’s whims. Thankfully, she has a great network of women around her and her ex-In-laws appear to be picking up some of the slack in Gavin’s absence.

As things increasingly get heated and day to day living becomes a mini-circus, Rachel’s 19 hour days are given some reprieve by the offer to holiday with her ex-In-laws for the summer with the promise that Gavin’s brothers Travis and Dave will happily remain on nephew-sitting duty. As the semi work-holiday for Rachel begins, it is clear that the usual animosity and banter between her and Travis is shifting into something far more intriguing and as the season unfolds, some sneaky clandestine activities begin to challenge Rachel’s self-concept and potentially create a significant rift in what for all intents and purposes is a successful family arrangement.

For many women, giving everything 110% often feels like it will never be enough, and the enormity of balancing everyone else’s happiness and wellbeing to the detriment of your own, is simply part and parcel of the invincibility persona that sits as a contemporary undercurrent . Rachel, despite her evident privilege, is created with such concepts in mind, and is a thoroughly engaging character that many women will instantly relate to. Her secretive raunchy tryst with Travis is definitely more than just food for thought, working to raise questions around what has to be sacrificed in order to feel semi-human again.

Whilst a little plot-light, in the sense that the real dramatic element resides in unpacking the thematic intent, Rachel,out of Office will be gobbled down quickly by many and hopefully for some, will correspond with some well earned ‘me time’, and pave the way for a solid 8 hours of sleep.

This book has it all! She's a single working mom who thinks she can do it all on her own. And she does. I'm not a mom, but I could identify with Rachel. The book is full of humor, but also full of heart. I loved the chemistry between Rachel and Travis! I had a huge crush on Travis. The characters were fun and there were a lot of laugh out loud moments. I really didn't want the book to end. I've read other books by this author and have enjoyed them all. I can always count on a book that makes me laugh and gives me all the warm and fuzzy feelings a good romantic comedy should! I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This is a great book!
Rachel’s life is loud, messy and chaotic. What do you expect? She’s co-parenting twin boys with her ex. And he’s failing on his end.
Now imagine, a hunk steps in to help.
So he’s her former brother-in-law? Who cares?
I laughed out loud, when I was reading this book.
I sighed at the romance.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for my honest review.

I wanna say thanks to the publishers and netgalley for the arc to review I did like this one a lot and it made me realize that I should not work so hard all the time and try to enjoy life. I also loved the cover it is so cute I love the dogs and the tanglement

This book was pure perfection! It gave me all the feels and I couldn’t put it down!
Not only did I find Rachel extremely easy to like, but she was completely relatable! As a mom myself, I could easily commiserate with Rachel and all the juggling of never ending tasks. I loved that she was not only a great mom for her boys, but she truly did everything to stay friendly with her ex.
From the very first interaction between Travis and Rachel at the twins game, the chemistry was undeniable! Travis was the perfect blend of misunderstood, caring, playful, and downright sexy! I loved how Travis was the perfect balm for all the chaos in Rachel’s life. He truly was the perfect partner.
I’ll admit that I was far from a Gavin fan in the beginning, but his situation at the end definitely tugged on my heartstrings a bit. We all deserve love and happiness, and I hope that there’ll be a book where he can find his! Maybe with Molly *wink* *wink*!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my own honest opinion.

What a delightful little read. I loved every minute. The story is interesting, characters are amazing, and it has enough drama and romance to keep the readers wanting more. I'd definitely recommend this book to all romance lovers. As far as I'm concerned, this is a must-read.
Rachel is a single mom who is trying to raise her twin sons well. Her ex-husband shares custody, but the truth is he isn't much help. However, his brothers help whenever possible, because she's considered a part of the family. Her kids are a handful, her job is a headache, and she's having difficulty juggling everything. So when her ex's family insists that she go with them to their summer house, she is reluctant. And it seems that her ex is going to let her down once again.
Then Travis swoops in like a prince and promises he would do everything to make her life easier. She isn't ready to accept his help, as tempting as it is. But in the end, she relents, and that's how their story takes a turn for the better. One thing leads to another, and now Travis has become far more important to her than he should be. What will happen when her ex finds out that she has fallen for his brother? Even worse, what if they didn't work, and it affected her twins? There is too much at stake, but for the first time she feels she has met someone worth the risk.
This is an adorable story, and I loved all the characters so much.

As a mom, I loved the quotes in the book and could totally relate from a mom point of view. In Rachel, Out of Office by Christina Hovland, Rachel as a divorced mom to twin boys, does it all. Travis, the boy’s uncle is around to pick up the slack from their dad always missing out. Despite the initial dislike between Rachel and Travis, you can tell right away that there is probably more to the tension. As soon as the boy’s dad backs out on their summer vacation, Rachel takes his place. What happens at the lake house, didn’t stay at the lake house.... Despite getting this as an ARC through NetGalley from the publisher, I would’ve bought this on my own. This book made me laugh out loud at times and I completely fell in love with the characters. I would totally recommend this book to others!

Rachel, Out of Office is an over-the-top cute romantic comedy. It’s a sweet romance with a bit of heat. The book features a single mom of twins, a pushy, ex-mother-in-law, and a trio of handsome brothers.

I couldn’t help but root for Rachel. She’s got her hands full with eight-year-old twin boys and an ex-husband who keeps missing the mark when it comes to his kids. I identified with her super organization skills, and I loved her network of girlfriends. If you’re a mom, you’re going to love Rachel and relate to the pressure she puts on herself to do it all. Ex-husband Gavin is not financially a deadbeat, but he is frequently a no-show in his boys’ lives. Thankfully, his brothers Dave and Travis are devoted to their nephews.

The pace was very enjoyable and allowed for thorough character development. Thankfully, there is no real angst, but there is some family drama given the unconventional romance in the story. The family dynamic—especially as it pertains to the matriarch (ex-MIL)—is great. Evelyn’s passive-aggressive commentary about her cat’s feelings is hilarious! I loved highly-relatable Rachel and her friends, and I fell hard for Travis. However, what really made this book for me was the realism. The characters and plot are organic and authentic.

What some might consider almost a taboo romance, is made into an acceptable, unconventional romance by author Christina Hovland. I enjoyed the book, but found the humor to be more smirk-worth rather than laugh-out-loud. Perhaps, the situations hit a little too close to home for me. Rachel, Out of Office provided many smiles and brought back memories (both fond and stressful) of trying to do it all and just wanting someone to make me a really good margarita.


4.5 stars

Thank you the publisher and @netgalley for a copy of this book. I loved the unconventional romance in the book and all the fun family dynamics of the Frank family. I think all parents can relate to Rachel who tries to be the best mom and best in her career. I loved the tension and chemistry between Rachel and her love interest. This was my first book by this author and I will check out her backlist.

So this book... What bought me was the cover, then I read synopsis...and I just needed to read it...
And after reading this one, I have a dopey smile on my face, that how good this was .
If you need a hot and seamy romance, you will not find it here. Yes, there are hot moments, but this book is not just a romance. It is a romance book about family, about how hard is to be a single parent, and that everybody needs, sometimes, a little help.
Rachel is a star and the soul of this book, yes, yes Travis is great, and he has his own universe, but Rachel is just the glue that holds her family together.
In some parts of the book I just could feel her struggle to do everything perfect. And I just know how crazy and hard that is.
I love that she is a mum, and that her kids are just the most important parts of her life.
I didn't hate her ex, he is a good dad ( when he is around) and he really cares about her and the kids....
And there is Travis... OMG... How can someone be so perfect?! He is kind,smart, funny, hot,hot,hot and crazy about Rachel and his nephews. He is like a Co dad to them.

And I just love the whole family.

This was a good, funny, family themed romance.

4.5 stars for me

This is one of those books that makes me wish we could give half starts, it wasn't quite a five for me but it was definitely a 4.5. I love the cover of this book and now I have finished reading I can see that it fits the books so well.

Rachel, is a single Mum to two very adventurous twin boys. Her ex Gavin, whilst in the pictures isn't exactly reliable as he is setting up home with his new fiancé and tends to cancel on the boys a lot, to keep her happy. Rachel used to this has adapted the attitude of just get on with it, in his absence and get things done all whilst running her own business from home.

I don't want to give away too much of the story but needless to say Gavin, gifts the boy with inappropriate birthday presents and Rachel is left reeling and as usual stuck having to get on with things. This is when we meet Travis, Gavins Brother, he try's to step in and help Rachel in Gavin's place.Rachels has never been close to him, as Gavin has always portrayed him as a 'waste of space and a 'womaniser' but he proves his loyalty and that he cares for her and the boys, and the two hit it off and become friends.

Rachel is looking forwards to having sometime to herself to catch up on work and spend some quality time with her girlfriends, whilst Gavin takes the boys on a annual family Lake trip with his parents and bothers. But in true Gavin style he cancels and in order to not to disappoint the boys Rachel gets talked into taking his place and all hell breaks loose.

I have to say there a couple of things I like most about this book, one is the friendship circle Rachel has with her girlfriends, where weekly they all meet in the park with cocktails and snacks. Helping each other out with the kids or just having a listening ear for each other. The other think, is the 'motherhood wisdom quote' as a heading for each chapter. The author has asked readers to submit quotes for her to use within the book. Great idea so her readers feel part of the story and some of them were absolutely hilarious!

"New assume it's chocolate, always sniff test." - Angela, Queensland, Australia

"Sometimes I really wish I would've had swallowed." Nicole, Utah, USA

I even sported out loud whilst reading some of these. Brilliant!! This is the first book I have read bu the author Christina Hovland but it definitely won't be the last.

Thanks to Entangled Publishing, the author Christina Hovland and Netgalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Due for publication 25th January 2021.

My rating scale
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Absolutely loved it! Gave me a warm fuzzy feeling or made me cry. And took me on an emotional rollercoaster.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Really liked it. Will read more by the author and other books in the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - It was just okay, didn’t move me, but don’t feel like I wasted me time reading it either.
⭐️⭐️ - Didn’t like this book and probably won’t read other in the series.
⭐️ - I did not care for this book at all and feel like I wasted my time reading it

4 For Real Stars
* * * *
This is a quick love letter to Christina Hovland. She happens to have the ability to take readers on a journey that can feel personal. It doesn't matter I haven't had a set of twins or divorced and have to deal with inlaws and a sexy ex-brother in law. I will still be able to relate to some of the issues these people are experiencing and love the journey I am taking with them.

Rachel, Out of Office is an ode to all Mothers who attempt to do it all. Our lives are not always of our making and it is our job to figure out everything not only for us but for those who depend on us. We do this every single day and with all of the current issues we are juggling, it has never been more of an issue.

Bravo to Ms. Hovland for looking hard at this and giving us a giggle, swoon, or two.

Rachel is single mom of twins, she can't relay on her ex too much, but his brothers always try to help, especially, Travis. Why oh why she is attracted to him.
This book is wonderful and funny.
Enjoyed storyline and all characters in this book.

Rachel,Out of Office by Christina Hovland was like standing in front of the mirror and looking into my own life as a modern day woman. This is the story for all of us women juggling and excelling at 1001 things and pushing ourselves to the last limits. This is the story giving that sweet relief and happy escape while giving a heavy dose of reality!

Rachel is many things in her life. Virtual personal assistant available to her clients and catering to their needs all the time. Mother of twin boys. An ex who is not bad, just absent mostly. Her ex husband's brother Travis was always a helping and caring hand. And someone she cannot absolutely get involved with. But everyone needs a happy place and Travis is more than willing. With all complications.

This story belongs to a subgenre I don't read much. But I loved it nevertheless. Rachel is amazing. She is witty. Smart. Hard working. Independent. Spine of steel. A big heart. A real boss lady taking down the world's issues one at a time. I could relate to her ( I am not a mom though) instantly. How many times we say yes to things to please others even when our body and mind simply refuse? How many times we ignore all signals that our sytem is breaking down? Too many times, I guess. And Travis stepped in before Rachel lose her mind. Gah I love this man. Genuinely good guy with such a delicious naughty and sinful side. This story was so hilarious sometimes and sometimes rightfully serious. They have insane chemistry. But they have more amazing banter! I was living for those one liners and those smouldering hot moments. The family and friends all provided some elements of drama, action, sweetness and hotness.


Rachel, Out of Office by Christina Hovland is that kind of warm and heartfelt story that makes me stop and breathe all the heartwarming goodness in the pages.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily

You know, I really do get surprised when I start loving a book once I start reading it. I always get this feeling when I am still unsure about a book because the book summary does not do it justice but I still read it because I want to know. And I am glad that I do because I love it. Just like Rachel, Out of the Office.
Rachel is doing it all. And I condemn her for that. Being a single parent is hard work. But lately Rachel is feeling the end of her rope especially when her ex is no help at all when it comes about the kids. Lucky, she has help from his sibling, especially sexy ex brother-in-law, Travis.
Travis may admit that he has great attraction for Rachel but he is not willing to go for it until she is ready. He knows that Rachel needs to be comfortable about anything she does because she will always need to be prepared for anything. And he loves that about her. She is one of a kind, and he is more than willing to go for it. It may be sticky at first since she was married with his brother but it truly did not mean anything especially with her end. That's what matters the most.

I absolutely loved this book! I loved seeing how Rachel grew not only in herself but her relationship as well! As a single mom working full time I could understand her struggle. I couldn’t put this book down because I wanted to see where Rachel and Travis ended up but also see how Gavin played into the whole thing! Great book!

A good friend recommended Rachel, Out of Office and said she knew I would be able to relate and connect. She was not kidding. I loved Rachel and watching her take control of her life. I cheered for her so hard as she navigated advocating for herself and finding happiness and not feeling like she was letting people down. The enemies to lovers/brother in law trope was so great for creating tension and emotional connection between Travis and Rachel. I am probably adding this to books I am pressing on my friends. lol. Thank you so much for letting me read!

Possibly one of my favorite books for a series starter or series, in particular. Loved all the characters, especially the two main protagonists. Can't wait for the side characters to get their own books. So much happens and yet at its core this book is simply about a couple who find love and make it work. Kids, exes, friends and family play a big role with the two main protagonists and I was really happy about that.

4.5 stars

I have read - and loved - every one of Christina Hovland's books. Rachel Out of Office is another wonderful read!

Though I am not a single mom like Rachel, her struggles felt relatable. She puts her kids above all else, has issues with her ex and his new fiancé, and is burning the candle at both ends to keep up with work and family life. Add a new and inconvenient attraction to her ex's brother and things get really complicated.

Travis was not who I expected him to be even from the first chapter or two from his perspective. He was a genuinely good guy who really cared about Rachel. I loved the way he looked out for her and that her well being mattered so much.

I thought the story moved at a good pace and I couldn't put it down, especially as Rachel and Travis grew closer. They were so sweet together. Also, if you've read the Mile High Matched series there are a couple fun easter eggs in the story as well!

5 Fabulous Stars!
Rachel is the single mom who does whatever it takes to hold it all together. Working from home, juggling twin boys, her ex and his family is a lot, but she grits her teeth and makes it happen. But whenever you are juggling plates, it is only a matter of time before something has to give. Rachel learns that to be happy, she must let go of her perfectionism and ideas of what is right or wrong. Instead, she must embrace all that brings her joy, even if that means embracing Travis, her former brother-in-law.
Most moms will be able to relate to Rachel and the chaos that is her life. I appreciated her insecurities and her stoicism to do whatever she needs to do for her boys. Travis was a delightful surprise. His charm, the feelings he has, and his desire to care for Rachel is evident from the beginning. I was obvious to me that he had harbored deep feelings for Rachel for a long time. I love how he put her happiness at the forefront and was willing to stand up to anyone who got it the way of that- even Rachel herself. I appreciated Rachel’s, ex, Gavin, who was trying to do the right thing, even when he failed miserably. I love the communication that Rachel and Gavin have as co-parents and the friendship they share for their twins. I really appreciated the physical chemistry between Rachel and Travis as well as the swoon-y feelings they share. Those feelings swelled from my e-reader screen and enveloped me in a warm and fluttery hug. There is humor woven into the story as well as sage mom advice leading each chapter.
I was not sure how the author was going to overcome the hurdles that Travis and Rachel faced to be together. I love it when a book keeps me guessing. I was incredibly pleased with the HEA and how it was accomplished. This book brought all the feelings out in me and I loved it. It is well-written in third person from a dual POV. The pacing is perfect and the characters well-developed and likable. I recommend that readers add it to their TBR and read this book as soon as they can for the good feelings it brings.