The Scum-Half is the latest in the Lincoln Knights rugby series from Charlie Novak. This is a low angst slow burn single father and manny pairing. The rugby captain meets his match in his newly hired nanny.
From the blurb:
When my balancing act between being a single dad to a toddler and a rugby union captain starts to falter, I’m forced to do the unthinkable: hire another nanny.
I’m already on thin ice with the agency because of my grumpy, overbearing micromanagement so Harper is my last chance. He’s clever, kind, caring, not to mention gorgeous, and I’m already antsy because he’s so capable he makes me feel useless. But Harper also has a core of steel and when I push him, he pushes back.
He makes me feel seen, like I’m more than a parent and a captain, and soon I’m falling for the man who’s brighter than sunshine.
I shouldn’t want him, even when it’s clear he feels the same. But maybe it’s time to throw caution to the wind for once and do the irresponsible thing.
It might get me everything I’ve ever wanted.
SNik's review:
Third in series (Lincoln Knights) but can be read as a standalone. Single dad. Boss/employee. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Professional rugby player and single dad Matty has already run off more than a half dozen nannies, although Matty has slowly come to realize that he’s the problem. Harper loves being a nanny, but Matty needs to learn to trust him with his son or Harper will be out the door.
Mutual attraction becomes a problem for Harper and Matty as they slowly fall into a relationship that may cause problems. Both Harper and Matty are so likable as characters, Matty being relatable as an overprotective loving parent, and Harper being so wonderful as a cheerful and competent child carer. I really enjoyed that their growing relationship, although slightly forbidden, was not angsty, and that they are surrounded by supportive secondary characters (some familiar faces from previous Charlie Novak books). Overall a fun story with a precocious toddler, a sweet nanny, a lonely dad trying to juggle it all, and two men that can’t help falling in love.
Molly Otto's review:
A slow burn romance between the Lincoln Knights captain Matty and his new manny Harper. Matty is in overhead trying to find the balance of being the captain of the Lincoln Knights and a full-time parent to his adorable toddler Jack. Mattys' need for perfection has made his not an easy boss to work for, which has led him to lose many people at this point. When Harper applies for the job, Matty knows he is the right man, even if he has issues allowing all his trust into the man. What makes this story so believable is the relationship of Matty and Hannah, Jacks mother. Hannah is one of those people who doesn't want to be a full-time parent yet is supportive and helps in any way she is able. For me that is realistic, not everyone is meant to be a full-time parent, she is not made to be a villain, she in fact helps and supports Matty in his choices, while putting him in his place when his temper gets in the way.
The two have an immediate attraction, so they try to put this to the side, yet they are made to be so they eventually do allow their true feelings out. Enjoyed what could have been a higher angst story, was actually done in a tastefully done low angst build up to something real. Was nice to see past couples from this, and other worlds appear throughout the story. No previous reading is necessary, but it is always nice to know where these cameos are coming from.
Zakiyya's review:
Matty, the epitome of the "grumpy" trope, fits every bit of the rugged Rugby captain personality, but what truly makes him shine is how the author reveals his vulnerabilities. As a single dad, he's emotionally scarred, cautious about trusting others with his son, and perhaps even more hesitant about letting someone into his heart. His tough exterior is built around years of managing expectations, both in rugby and in his personal life. The slow unravelling of his emotional walls is genuinely touching.
Harper, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air. He’s patient, empathetic, and unafraid of Matty’s grumpy demeanour. But don’t mistake his kindness for weakness—he’s strong and self-assured. Harper’s ability to connect with Matty's son, Jack, combined with his quiet but growing feelings for the intimidating rugby captain, makes him an incredibly compelling character. His inner strength contrasts beautifully with Matty’s more outwardly strong presence, creating a delightful dynamic between them.
The chemistry between Matty and Harper is like a slow, simmering fire that builds over time. At first, Matty is clearly resistant to his attraction toward Harper—he’s not used to being vulnerable or needing anyone, let alone falling for someone so integral to Jack’s life. Meanwhile, Harper is caught between his professional boundaries and the growing, undeniable connection he feels with Matty.
The pacing of their relationship feels just right. It's a medium burn, with plenty of tender moments that build up to a satisfying, if not entirely unexpected, climax. The moments they share—whether it’s a late-night conversation or an unexpected act of kindness—are filled with genuine emotion. There’s a palpable tension, and the eventual payoff is incredibly rewarding.
One of the book’s strongest themes is the complexity of fatherhood. Matty’s devotion to Jack is unwavering, and it’s clear that his little boy is the centre of his world. His hesitancy in letting anyone close to Jack—especially a man who might eventually leave—adds layers of depth to his character. The way Matty grows throughout the story, learning to trust Harper not only with his heart but with his son, is beautifully portrayed.
The dynamic between Matty, Jack and Harper is heartwarming. The little boy is a star in his own right, and the bond between the nanny and his charge is precious. It’s one of those sweet subplots that adds authenticity to the romance while reminding us of the importance of family.
The dialogue is sharp and witty when it needs to be and deeply moving when it matters. The emotional beats are balanced with humour and lightness, making the story feel genuine and not heavy. While the setting might be a bit stereotypical (rugby captain falling for the nanny) and the story not too deep, the author elevates it with nuanced characters and real emotional stakes.
" The Scrum Half " is a low angst, well-crafted MM romance that delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and steam. Matty and Harper’s journey is one of healing, learning to trust, and navigating the complexities of love and parenthood. If you enjoy stories where love grows slowly and naturally, and you're a fan of the grumpy/sunshine trope, this is a book you’ll want to check out.
Heather's Review:
I absolutely love the chemistry between Matty and Harper... its a slow burn to explosion and we get so much more than that with this book...
I love watching Matty interact with Jack and also how quickly Jack and Harper connect and how strong the bond is between them.
I also love the team interactions and the way Harper is enrobed in the family atmosphere! The drag queen elements, the spouses, the whole family vibe is amazing.
I truly love everything Charlie Novak writes, but these rugby guys have been spectacular!
The Scum-Half is currently available as an e-book and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription
Meet Charlie Novak:
Charlie lives in England with her husband and two cheeky dogs. She spends most of her days wrangling
other people’s words in her day job and then trying to force her own onto the page in the evening.
She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters —
because the world needs more of them.
Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with baking, Dungeons and Dragons,
reading and many other nerdy pursuits. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one
favourite dinosaur…
Connect with Charlie Novak:
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