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The McGuire Brothers #4
Kind of a Sexy Jerk
So let me get this straight... For the next few days I’ve got myself a grumpy fake husband who’s also kind of my...bodyguard?
I guess that’s a better way to spend the weekend than binge-watching reality television, especially since it’s kind of my fault we’re on the run from the mob and I need a protector.
Oops.
But why does the man watching my back have to be my lifelong crush? I've known Matty McGuire since we were kids and crushed on this stubborn, bossy, secretive, but loyal and heroic man nearly as long.
I'm determined to keep that part to myself, of course. But once we're fake Mr. and Mrs., soon we're not only sharing a hotel room but a hot kiss and an even hotter night between the sheets.
I'm over the moon, but when Matty's secrets turn out to be the kind that could get a girl tossed into the Witness Protection Program, I realize I'm also in over my head.
Can we find a way to make love work in the real world? Or will this one, red-hot weekend on the run from the mob be our first...and our last?
Welcome to Bad Dog where the men are incredible, the animals are ridiculous, and the happy ever afters are super emotional and steamy! Kind of a Sexy Jerk is a Standalone Romance with Spice!
I guess that’s a better way to spend the weekend than binge-watching reality television, especially since it’s kind of my fault we’re on the run from the mob and I need a protector.
Oops.
But why does the man watching my back have to be my lifelong crush? I've known Matty McGuire since we were kids and crushed on this stubborn, bossy, secretive, but loyal and heroic man nearly as long.
I'm determined to keep that part to myself, of course. But once we're fake Mr. and Mrs., soon we're not only sharing a hotel room but a hot kiss and an even hotter night between the sheets.
I'm over the moon, but when Matty's secrets turn out to be the kind that could get a girl tossed into the Witness Protection Program, I realize I'm also in over my head.
Can we find a way to make love work in the real world? Or will this one, red-hot weekend on the run from the mob be our first...and our last?
Welcome to Bad Dog where the men are incredible, the animals are ridiculous, and the happy ever afters are super emotional and steamy! Kind of a Sexy Jerk is a Standalone Romance with Spice!
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2023
263 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Lili Valente
151 books4,082 followersVisit Lili at www.lilivalente.com
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 13, 2025
Loved it (rounded up)
Oh, man, Nora and Matt are seriously MFEO. This series keeps getting better and better and I'm so sad I'm almost done with it.
Nora (Wren's next-door neighbor and Starling's BFF) is so afraid of animals, but bless her heart, she tries. She tries hard to get over it and hilariously keeps failing. She's also been in love with Matty since she was a teenager. Matty (as whispered about in past books) has something going on. Double life stuff and wants to get out/retire and travel the world and find out who he is outside Mad Dog, his huge family, and this super-secret job he's had since he was a teenager.
There's a touch of suspense in this one and it might be my favorite of the series (right at this very moment cause I still have more to read and I'll totally waffle and go back to another couple lol). And by "suspense" I mean Lili Valente hilarious romcom suspense.
We also see a little bit of Bear (Clyde's owner) and his connection with Dipsy (Mcguire brother's cousin and news anchor) and I really hope we get more of that because it seems like there's a delightful second-chance story there.
-secret identity/job
-opposites attract
-fake dating
-forced proximity
-feline celebrity catnapping?
-extortion
-hilarious meddling grandma
The 4-legged friend in this one is Clyde the cat who can't stop belching. It's so cute seeing Nora bond with it and overcome her fear of animals.
Robert Hatchet and Lili Valente return for this narration and they're just. so. good!
Oh, man, Nora and Matt are seriously MFEO. This series keeps getting better and better and I'm so sad I'm almost done with it.
Nora (Wren's next-door neighbor and Starling's BFF) is so afraid of animals, but bless her heart, she tries. She tries hard to get over it and hilariously keeps failing. She's also been in love with Matty since she was a teenager. Matty (as whispered about in past books) has something going on. Double life stuff and wants to get out/retire and travel the world and find out who he is outside Mad Dog, his huge family, and this super-secret job he's had since he was a teenager.
There's a touch of suspense in this one and it might be my favorite of the series (right at this very moment cause I still have more to read and I'll totally waffle and go back to another couple lol). And by "suspense" I mean Lili Valente hilarious romcom suspense.
We also see a little bit of Bear (Clyde's owner) and his connection with Dipsy (Mcguire brother's cousin and news anchor) and I really hope we get more of that because it seems like there's a delightful second-chance story there.
-secret identity/job
-opposites attract
-fake dating
-forced proximity
-feline celebrity catnapping?
-extortion
-hilarious meddling grandma
The 4-legged friend in this one is Clyde the cat who can't stop belching. It's so cute seeing Nora bond with it and overcome her fear of animals.
Robert Hatchet and Lili Valente return for this narration and they're just. so. good!
August 14, 2024
This book brings us back to the town of Bad Dog, which I just realized is an interesting parallel to the Happy Cat series (check it out if you haven’t already).
Nora and Matt are an unlikely pair, but as the story progresses the more these two seem like a perfect fit. This rom-com finds our couple embarking on a crazy adventure, which includes a hilarious feline, Clyde. And what would a Lili Valente novel be with humor and romance?
I would highly recommend this one and while it’s part of a series I think it can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
Nora and Matt are an unlikely pair, but as the story progresses the more these two seem like a perfect fit. This rom-com finds our couple embarking on a crazy adventure, which includes a hilarious feline, Clyde. And what would a Lili Valente novel be with humor and romance?
I would highly recommend this one and while it’s part of a series I think it can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
October 25, 2023
My god, I loved the hell out of this book! Great humor, as always. Just a good old time. Man, I loved their story so dang much! Nora and Matty are meant to be. I say this after every book, but they are probably my top favorite Bad Dog couple right now. It gets hot hot hot when they finally give in to what they've been craving. Also, her grandma is a hoot! Lol
November 8, 2023
I loved this latest addition to the McGuire Brothers of Bad Dog MN. series. Mostly because I loved Nora Beaudreau the female protagonist. In her previous appearances as Wren’s next door neighbor and Wren’s younger sister Starling’s BFF Nora seemed to me to be a little quirky with her fear of animals and a bit immature still living at home with her grandmother and having an unrequited crush on this books male protagonist the Sexy Jerk title character Matthew “Matty” McGuire. But this book showed me just how wrong my earlier impressions of Nora were. She’s a real sweetheart and some would say naïve. But she’s also a strong, smart, sexy, business savvy, eternally optimistic young woman of 29 with a positive attitude and an irresistible personality. I confess one of the things I liked about Nora is that unlike a lot of contemporary romance female protagonist she’s not into casual sex as demonstrated by her current two-year dry spell. At 29 I wouldn’t expect her to be a virgin and she enjoys sex but limits it to men she’s in a relationship with. And she’s picky about who those are. She also isn’t so prudish as to never drop an F-bomb but she does so sparingly. In other words she’s the kind of young woman most of us hoped our daughters would become.
Matty McGuire isn’t really a jerk. But because he’s secretly a C.I.A. operative and feels he needs to leave Bad Dog and his intrusive family behind once he retires from the agency while he travels the world and discovers who he really is, he does his best to keep Nora at arm’s length when he’s not rescuing her from one thing or another. Which has Nora who has had a life long crush on Matty confused about his feelings for her. Matty loves his alone time away from his large and often intrusive if loving family. He also loves the outdoors and adventure. Nora is a social butterfly who loves people and hates bugs and fears animals. So this is an opposites attract trope.
As you’d expect from a book placed in a town named Bad Dog this is definitely a rom.-com. Even the bad guy criminals are so bumbling they’re almost harmless. And like all the earlier books in this series this one of course has an adorable animal character, Clyde the burping cat who has become such an internet star stuffed animals of his likeness are selling like hotcakes. Because of Nora’s inquisitive nature and attraction to Matty she gets caught up in his mission to bring down the Sweetwater crime family. To protect Nora they are forced into a close proximity trope involving catnapping, extortion and money laundering. Matty tries to hide his identity as a CIA undercover operative from Nora while they’re on the run but eventually fails. Just like he tries to ignore his overwhelming attraction to her and fails at that too. With Nora’s unique personality, Clyde the cat and Nora’s cantankerous gran (because every good rom.-com. needs a slightly cray cray senior citizen or two) this book is pretty funny. There aren’t a whole lot of sex scenes but once Matty gives up the fight and accepts that Nora is his future there are a few steamy ones where Nora demonstrates she may be picky about her sexual partners but she’s not shy in bed. At least not with Matty her soulmate. My only small issue with this book and this series is the author seems to have grown increasingly reluctant to involve the protagonists from the earlier stories in her current books. Even though each of the earlier books involves one of Matty’s brothers none of them or their now significant others have much of a role if any in this story. The only McGuire that really does is his twin sister Melissa a divorced mother of one. Nora’s older brother Aaron also appears and would seem to be one half of a future enemies to lovers trope with Melissa.
Matty McGuire isn’t really a jerk. But because he’s secretly a C.I.A. operative and feels he needs to leave Bad Dog and his intrusive family behind once he retires from the agency while he travels the world and discovers who he really is, he does his best to keep Nora at arm’s length when he’s not rescuing her from one thing or another. Which has Nora who has had a life long crush on Matty confused about his feelings for her. Matty loves his alone time away from his large and often intrusive if loving family. He also loves the outdoors and adventure. Nora is a social butterfly who loves people and hates bugs and fears animals. So this is an opposites attract trope.
As you’d expect from a book placed in a town named Bad Dog this is definitely a rom.-com. Even the bad guy criminals are so bumbling they’re almost harmless. And like all the earlier books in this series this one of course has an adorable animal character, Clyde the burping cat who has become such an internet star stuffed animals of his likeness are selling like hotcakes. Because of Nora’s inquisitive nature and attraction to Matty she gets caught up in his mission to bring down the Sweetwater crime family. To protect Nora they are forced into a close proximity trope involving catnapping, extortion and money laundering. Matty tries to hide his identity as a CIA undercover operative from Nora while they’re on the run but eventually fails. Just like he tries to ignore his overwhelming attraction to her and fails at that too. With Nora’s unique personality, Clyde the cat and Nora’s cantankerous gran (because every good rom.-com. needs a slightly cray cray senior citizen or two) this book is pretty funny. There aren’t a whole lot of sex scenes but once Matty gives up the fight and accepts that Nora is his future there are a few steamy ones where Nora demonstrates she may be picky about her sexual partners but she’s not shy in bed. At least not with Matty her soulmate. My only small issue with this book and this series is the author seems to have grown increasingly reluctant to involve the protagonists from the earlier stories in her current books. Even though each of the earlier books involves one of Matty’s brothers none of them or their now significant others have much of a role if any in this story. The only McGuire that really does is his twin sister Melissa a divorced mother of one. Nora’s older brother Aaron also appears and would seem to be one half of a future enemies to lovers trope with Melissa.
January 18, 2024
So glad I was able to read this before it left Kindle Unlimited. Had I not received the subscription e-mail from Lili that it was going to leave on 1/17, I would have pushed it out further to read. It’s not that I wasn’t looking forward to reading this, I just have so many other ones that have been on my radar for a while now. I am happy I decided to just bite the bullet and read it though. It was worth the wait and totally not what I was expecting. This took a Clark Kent and Lois Lane feel and it was such a nice surprise. Too bad it didn’t end up finishing like that. I would have loved to see Nora and Matty ride off into the sunset together and Matty still pursue his CIA career and continue being an officer with Nora at his side, going undercover, stopping bad guys and taking over the world. Plus, I would have loved to see him use all 5 of his languages he learned in this story too. Ok, I wanted a spy story! All the clues and tasks with the imminent danger led me to believe this was going to happen! I’m bummed it didn’t but we do get a focus on Matty and Nora’s budding relationship. I felt like a huge weight was lifted off my psyche when Matty revealed he was in the CIA and he let others know about it. I felt like this was a huge part of his personality and also the one thing that kept dragging him down and holding others at arms length. I felt his relief at the prospect of a few people knowing what he does. It was nice to see him carefree and not always looking behind his shoulder because no one knew what he did. I think it was better on his mental health too. I fail to see his jerk side though based on the title. I didn’t get that from him. I liked Nora, but she was too nosy and meddled when she shouldn’t. I get it, and I would have tried to do the same but maybe not as obviously as she did. She was too eager and too future oriented. She had her whole life planned out with Matty and they hadn’t even really made things official yet! He was just starting to admit his feelings for her and giving into his desires for her and she could already see their future flash before her eyes and she was determined to make it happen. I like her drive, but in this case she rushed too much with Matty and their relationship needed to cook for a little bit. Aside from all this, I really enjoyed this story. I laughed, I sighed in relief and I clapped and cheered mentally. It had all the things a spy story could have with the right amount of intimacy and heat, but maybe a little more of this would have been nice. The next story is giving me severe enemies to lovers vibe and already Melissa’s stubbornness is bothering me, but I’m still looking forward to it. I think this one is probably my favorite, though I feel like there might be another story or two I gave 5 stars to. It’s been a while since I read this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2023
All the silly and swoon worthy love
I loved Nora and Matty’s secret crush, opposites attract, forced proximity romance of all the things. I smiled, laughed and swooned my way through this whole book. It’s the kind of romcom that gives you warm fuzzies while making you snort laugh. Nora is a sweet fashion designer who lives with her grandmother and is patiently searching for the one. She is sweet but also tends to notice things others do not. Matty works undercover for the CIA while pretending to be a handyman and stock car racer. Nora had a crush on Matty in HS and Matty has recently saved her from odd situations she found herself in but she’s concerned. When Nora once again sees Matty’s car outside a known mob headquarters, she decides to help him by confronting him. This just results in Nora going into hiding with Matty along with a rescued belching cat. Despite Matty’s efforts to keep everything professional along with keeping his secrets, it is hard for either of them to contain all the big feels in the boxes they’ve assigned them to. Reading Nora and Matty’s journey to their swoon worthy HEA will give you all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, cringing, teeth gritting, and cheering. It was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as shown through sweet moments, steam, laughs, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, light danger and all the happy heart squeezing love. I love the McGuire family and visiting the town of Bad Dog. 4.5 stars.
I loved Nora and Matty’s secret crush, opposites attract, forced proximity romance of all the things. I smiled, laughed and swooned my way through this whole book. It’s the kind of romcom that gives you warm fuzzies while making you snort laugh. Nora is a sweet fashion designer who lives with her grandmother and is patiently searching for the one. She is sweet but also tends to notice things others do not. Matty works undercover for the CIA while pretending to be a handyman and stock car racer. Nora had a crush on Matty in HS and Matty has recently saved her from odd situations she found herself in but she’s concerned. When Nora once again sees Matty’s car outside a known mob headquarters, she decides to help him by confronting him. This just results in Nora going into hiding with Matty along with a rescued belching cat. Despite Matty’s efforts to keep everything professional along with keeping his secrets, it is hard for either of them to contain all the big feels in the boxes they’ve assigned them to. Reading Nora and Matty’s journey to their swoon worthy HEA will give you all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, cringing, teeth gritting, and cheering. It was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as shown through sweet moments, steam, laughs, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, light danger and all the happy heart squeezing love. I love the McGuire family and visiting the town of Bad Dog. 4.5 stars.
October 17, 2023
“Sometimes the best way to save the world is just to be there for the people we love.”
Kind Of A Sexy Jerk was a fun, breezy and delightful story full of warmth, humor and madcap adventures. Nora and Matty are utterly adorable and I smiled so much while reading their story.
“Nora sees things other people don’t, sees through me in a way no one ever has before.”
Nora is so much fun. Her crush on Matty goes back to her teenage years and she’s never found anyone else who makes her feel like he does. She’s determined to make him give into his feelings for her even if it puts her in danger. I loved her feisty spirit and kind heart and how she just jumps into any situation with her whole heart and full of enthusiasm.
“Her. Me. We just…fit.”
Matty has been keeping his profession a secret from everyone he cares about for years. He’s finally ready to retire and “find” himself, but he doesn’t count on the sassy Nora and how she makes him feel like home. Being on the run with Nora helps him realize what is really important and what he wants out of life.
“Loving you is the sanest thing I’ve ever done.”
The lighthearted chemistry and banter between these two is sweet and spicy. I loved how Nora was able to get Matty to open up and be vulnerable with her. They were perfectly matched and their wild and wacky journey was full of humor, heat, heart. Now I’m so excited to see what’s in store for the next McGuire!!
Kind Of A Sexy Jerk was a fun, breezy and delightful story full of warmth, humor and madcap adventures. Nora and Matty are utterly adorable and I smiled so much while reading their story.
“Nora sees things other people don’t, sees through me in a way no one ever has before.”
Nora is so much fun. Her crush on Matty goes back to her teenage years and she’s never found anyone else who makes her feel like he does. She’s determined to make him give into his feelings for her even if it puts her in danger. I loved her feisty spirit and kind heart and how she just jumps into any situation with her whole heart and full of enthusiasm.
“Her. Me. We just…fit.”
Matty has been keeping his profession a secret from everyone he cares about for years. He’s finally ready to retire and “find” himself, but he doesn’t count on the sassy Nora and how she makes him feel like home. Being on the run with Nora helps him realize what is really important and what he wants out of life.
“Loving you is the sanest thing I’ve ever done.”
The lighthearted chemistry and banter between these two is sweet and spicy. I loved how Nora was able to get Matty to open up and be vulnerable with her. They were perfectly matched and their wild and wacky journey was full of humor, heat, heart. Now I’m so excited to see what’s in store for the next McGuire!!
October 16, 2023
We're back in Bad Dog, MN, the quirky small town where everyone is one degree away from being related to a McGuire, and wild animals take on a life of their own and somehow manage to rule the roost.
Nora Boudreaux knows everyone in town but has had her eye on Matty McGuire for most of her life. In her defense, he manages to come to her rescue in the nick of time every time she needs rescuing, so she feels justified in looking out for him. When she spies Matty skulking around behind the local bakery, she just wants to make sure he's safe. And not involved in some nefarious way with the sketchy family who runs the bakery.
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time finds Nora on the run with Matty with a cat-napped feline in tow. As they dodge the bad guys and try to stay one step ahead, Nora and Matty are forced to address the simmering attraction between them.
Valente is my go-to for laugh-out-loud funny romance full of madcap shenanigans with surprising depth of heart. Matty and Nora's story is sweet, tender and heartfelt while being ridiculously hilarious with a side of steam. It’s more fun than should be legal, and you won’t want to miss this epic reading escape!
Nora Boudreaux knows everyone in town but has had her eye on Matty McGuire for most of her life. In her defense, he manages to come to her rescue in the nick of time every time she needs rescuing, so she feels justified in looking out for him. When she spies Matty skulking around behind the local bakery, she just wants to make sure he's safe. And not involved in some nefarious way with the sketchy family who runs the bakery.
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time finds Nora on the run with Matty with a cat-napped feline in tow. As they dodge the bad guys and try to stay one step ahead, Nora and Matty are forced to address the simmering attraction between them.
Valente is my go-to for laugh-out-loud funny romance full of madcap shenanigans with surprising depth of heart. Matty and Nora's story is sweet, tender and heartfelt while being ridiculously hilarious with a side of steam. It’s more fun than should be legal, and you won’t want to miss this epic reading escape!
October 19, 2023
I love being able to go back to the Bad Dog world. “Kind of a Jerk” is a fun, flirty and laugh out loud rom-com that has all the Lili Valente charm I love.
Nora is a sweet and caring fashion designer who’s patiently waiting for the one. She’s had a crush on Matty since high school and when she sees him somewhere he shouldn’t be, she instantly wants to help. But Matty doesn’t need help as he has special skills that will help him. Matty has also had a crush on Nora and he’s ready to be with her after finishing one last thing.
Nora and Matty were so adorable and I loved reading their story so much! I love diving into a Lili Valente book because I’m guaranteed a laugh out loud rom-com with plenty of steam. Nora is genuine and I loved how she saw the best in people no matter what. I loved Matty’s job and it added a layer of mystery to him that was so good. These two were so cute together and I loved the adventure that they went on. Clyde the belching cat was hilarious and I love having a quirky animal in books. It adds a fun element to the story. This was a fun story and I can’t wait for the next book from Lili.
Nora is a sweet and caring fashion designer who’s patiently waiting for the one. She’s had a crush on Matty since high school and when she sees him somewhere he shouldn’t be, she instantly wants to help. But Matty doesn’t need help as he has special skills that will help him. Matty has also had a crush on Nora and he’s ready to be with her after finishing one last thing.
Nora and Matty were so adorable and I loved reading their story so much! I love diving into a Lili Valente book because I’m guaranteed a laugh out loud rom-com with plenty of steam. Nora is genuine and I loved how she saw the best in people no matter what. I loved Matty’s job and it added a layer of mystery to him that was so good. These two were so cute together and I loved the adventure that they went on. Clyde the belching cat was hilarious and I love having a quirky animal in books. It adds a fun element to the story. This was a fun story and I can’t wait for the next book from Lili.
October 21, 2023
Back to Bad Dog, Minnesota we go, and whenever I make the return trip, aka read the newest addition to the McGuire Brothers series, it's proven to be one heck of a good time, thanks to Lili Valente's hilariously endearing stories. Kind of a Sexy Jerk is the fourth full-length novel--but fifth book overall--in the series, and this is Matthew "Matty" McGuire's story. If you're familiar with all the stuff that's been happening with the McGuires, then you pretty much have an idea who Matty is paired up with--Nora Boudreaux--and let me tell you, these two were a hoot and a half!
Being on the run forces Nora and Matty to stop running from their feelings, and I for one am a happy camper. I loved these two! They seemed like such opposites, but that much needed chemistry was obvious from the get-go. Matty being a CIA operative left him believing he couldn't really have any sort of relationship like the ones his other siblings had, but Nora was just that one thing he realized he could no longer deny himself. The humor and romance with bits of action and suspense plus Clyde the Belching Kitten made Kind of A Sexy Jerk kind of a five-starred read.
Being on the run forces Nora and Matty to stop running from their feelings, and I for one am a happy camper. I loved these two! They seemed like such opposites, but that much needed chemistry was obvious from the get-go. Matty being a CIA operative left him believing he couldn't really have any sort of relationship like the ones his other siblings had, but Nora was just that one thing he realized he could no longer deny himself. The humor and romance with bits of action and suspense plus Clyde the Belching Kitten made Kind of A Sexy Jerk kind of a five-starred read.
October 23, 2023
4.5 Stars
This is the fourth book in the series and mysterious Matty is up. His family thinks that he never lied p to his potential with a jack of all trades, but they have no clue what he has been up to. His assignment takes him to his hometown's backyard. When it comes to Nora nothing ever goes as planned which Matty experiences up close and personal several times, but this time it turns a little dangerous. Now on the run with Nora and a belching cat things are going to get way more interesting. I so loved the sense of humor and Clyde brings their own brand of humor. I loved Nora. I want to be a friend of hers. Her Grams reminded me of my grandma so that put a smile on my face remembering her. I also loved the little tidbits of some of what is to come. I can never get enough of visiting Bad Dog and the McGuire family. Buckle up for the wild ride Matty, Nora, and Clyde go on. I really loved the ending because it's so what these two deserved. It left me with a huge smile on my face for them, but I can't wait for more from this series with the tease we got. It's so good I highly recommend!!
This is the fourth book in the series and mysterious Matty is up. His family thinks that he never lied p to his potential with a jack of all trades, but they have no clue what he has been up to. His assignment takes him to his hometown's backyard. When it comes to Nora nothing ever goes as planned which Matty experiences up close and personal several times, but this time it turns a little dangerous. Now on the run with Nora and a belching cat things are going to get way more interesting. I so loved the sense of humor and Clyde brings their own brand of humor. I loved Nora. I want to be a friend of hers. Her Grams reminded me of my grandma so that put a smile on my face remembering her. I also loved the little tidbits of some of what is to come. I can never get enough of visiting Bad Dog and the McGuire family. Buckle up for the wild ride Matty, Nora, and Clyde go on. I really loved the ending because it's so what these two deserved. It left me with a huge smile on my face for them, but I can't wait for more from this series with the tease we got. It's so good I highly recommend!!
December 12, 2023
I enjoyed this latest addition to the McGuire brothers series. This one is Matty and Nora's story. These two have known each other forever. Nora's always had a crush on him. He's quick to rescue her when it's needed, but otherwise seems to want nothing to do with her. So wrong! He has a secret attraction to her, but has been resisting it due to the required secrecy of his job as a CIA agent. Matty is trying to complete his last assignment before he leaves his CIA job behind for good. That assignment involves "getting the goods" on the Sweetwater crime family, who operate out of a bakery in their hometown of Bad Dog. Nora's curiosity about Matty's activities lead to the two of them, plus a cat who was kidnapped from her owner (not by Matty) on the run from the Sweetwater mob. Spending so much adrenaline-fueled time together collapses the walls of Matty's restraint where Nora is concerned. They find love while trying to stay one step ahead of the bad guys. A sweet, spicy romance with a touch of mystery and danger. A worthy addition to the series. I'm looking forward to Melissa and Aaron's story; too bad it'll be a while before it's available.
September 14, 2025
Nora Boudreaux
Matthew (Matty) McGuire
Nora is a Fashion Designer who lives with and takes care of her Gram. She also has a crush on Matthew(Matty) McGuire ever since he saved her from a squirrel that had got into her bun at the base of her neck. Nora sees Matty’s truck behind the cupcake bakery on Thanksgiving night so she stops to talk to him to find out what he’s doing when she is grabbed from behind. Matty immediately rushes to help Nora. They end up going into hiding with a cat in tow. This is another very good, fast read in this series as Nora and Matty try to figure out if they are going to be in a relationship or not. As Matty is trying to wrap up his job so he can move forward. Nora and Matty find they both work well together as a team. I liked both Nora and Matty. I liked Nora’s ability to roll with the situation and her creativity. Matty is a loyal, caring guy who is at a cross roads in his life and you get to see his change. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
Matthew (Matty) McGuire
Nora is a Fashion Designer who lives with and takes care of her Gram. She also has a crush on Matthew(Matty) McGuire ever since he saved her from a squirrel that had got into her bun at the base of her neck. Nora sees Matty’s truck behind the cupcake bakery on Thanksgiving night so she stops to talk to him to find out what he’s doing when she is grabbed from behind. Matty immediately rushes to help Nora. They end up going into hiding with a cat in tow. This is another very good, fast read in this series as Nora and Matty try to figure out if they are going to be in a relationship or not. As Matty is trying to wrap up his job so he can move forward. Nora and Matty find they both work well together as a team. I liked both Nora and Matty. I liked Nora’s ability to roll with the situation and her creativity. Matty is a loyal, caring guy who is at a cross roads in his life and you get to see his change. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
October 26, 2023
With this book, Lili Valente brings us back to Bad Dog with Matty and Nora‘s story, including the comedic addition of a belching cat named Clyde. Each time we return to Bad Dog, I fall in love with the characters of Bad Dog and the unexpectedly quirky furry friends they include.
Matty is oh so dreamy with his unwavering protectiveness of Nora. And Nora’s lighthearted personality together with her persistence and nosy nature make this story so much fun. As their lives get entangled, they begin an unexpected adventure together which quickly unveils the connection their souls have always shared.
As in her usual fashion, Ms. Lily has delivered a fun and delightful story which will make you giggle and swoon. Kind of A Sexy Jerk is an entertaining addition to this series making Bad Dog continually moving up on my list of favorite book series. And though this book is part of a series, it can certainly be read as a standalone as well.
Matty is oh so dreamy with his unwavering protectiveness of Nora. And Nora’s lighthearted personality together with her persistence and nosy nature make this story so much fun. As their lives get entangled, they begin an unexpected adventure together which quickly unveils the connection their souls have always shared.
As in her usual fashion, Ms. Lily has delivered a fun and delightful story which will make you giggle and swoon. Kind of A Sexy Jerk is an entertaining addition to this series making Bad Dog continually moving up on my list of favorite book series. And though this book is part of a series, it can certainly be read as a standalone as well.
December 19, 2023
Alert!!! High Swooning is expected from this book! I mean it needs some kind of warning! Ha! Lili Valente is a go to author when I need to read a book and escape with. My days have been pretty dark. I have put down my kindle and paperbacks. I was not sure when I would pick up another one. But when I saw this story was out, and who it was written by, I needed to get back into it. I needed to see what the latest McGuire has been up to. I love these guys.
My heart was all the way in. Matty and Nora were a hit! They have their own paths. They have have crossed many times before. For these two I knew it was kismet!
Kind of a Sexy Jerk is a must read! I laughed so many times over. I had a couple of tears here and there with the emotions these characters pulled from me. Friends, you just need the McGuires in your life!
October 20, 2023
Kind of a Sexy Jerk is the fourth book in the Bad Dog series by Lili Valente. Each book follows a different couple but I recommend reading the series, it’s hilarious, sexy, and full of fantastic pets.
Nora was crushing on Matty. Hard. But after being pushed away more than once, she knew she had to try to move on. It was hard to do when your crush showed up in the most random of times. It was now her turn to show up… she was doing just that when she was suddenly grabbed then saved by the bossy jerk who was now driving her out of town.
A few months ago Nora would be over the moon to spend a weekend away with Matty but now they were on the run from the unknown. She doesn’t even know if she should trust Matty. Is he a criminal or a spy?
He is a sexy spy who is leaving at the end of the month. He lets her in a little bit at a time, and she figures out she trust him with her safety but can she trust him with her heart?
These two know how to find trouble. They also know how to have fun, and break down some walls. I loved the adventure part of their romance. I am excited about what is coming up next.
Nora was crushing on Matty. Hard. But after being pushed away more than once, she knew she had to try to move on. It was hard to do when your crush showed up in the most random of times. It was now her turn to show up… she was doing just that when she was suddenly grabbed then saved by the bossy jerk who was now driving her out of town.
A few months ago Nora would be over the moon to spend a weekend away with Matty but now they were on the run from the unknown. She doesn’t even know if she should trust Matty. Is he a criminal or a spy?
He is a sexy spy who is leaving at the end of the month. He lets her in a little bit at a time, and she figures out she trust him with her safety but can she trust him with her heart?
These two know how to find trouble. They also know how to have fun, and break down some walls. I loved the adventure part of their romance. I am excited about what is coming up next.
October 20, 2023
Matty and Nora's story is action packed, funny, sweet and sexy!
These two are opposites that fit together perfectly. I love how they navigate through Matty's last job (no spoilers! So read it!) and somehow start a relationship. Nora is a ray of sunshine and is the only non relative who truly sees Matty. He has so many secrets because of his job and you can see how it weighs on him. Of course there are some funny animal happenings that add so much to their story too.
Matty tries so hard to resist his feelings for Nora because he wants what's best for her. Of course she doesn't like that and hilariously tries to seduce him. I just loved their personalities! When they finally get together, they fall so hard for one another.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
These two are opposites that fit together perfectly. I love how they navigate through Matty's last job (no spoilers! So read it!) and somehow start a relationship. Nora is a ray of sunshine and is the only non relative who truly sees Matty. He has so many secrets because of his job and you can see how it weighs on him. Of course there are some funny animal happenings that add so much to their story too.
Matty tries so hard to resist his feelings for Nora because he wants what's best for her. Of course she doesn't like that and hilariously tries to seduce him. I just loved their personalities! When they finally get together, they fall so hard for one another.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
October 21, 2023
Yay for being back in Bad Dog, MN, as well as McGuire country!
Matty and Nora have know each other since high school. Each having a crush on the other, but never admitting to it. When Nora is being nosey as to why Matty's vehicle is parked at the bakery and he is not at home with his family on Thanksgiving, suddenly she's grabbed and Matty punches that someone and throws her in his vehicle and takes off! Not exactly what she thought he was doing on Thanksgiving, nor was being kidnapped. Off they go on a trip to the "treehouse". Matty is not who she thought he was!
I loved going to Bad Dog as well as visiting the characters that live there! There's never a dull time in that town! Wonderful story, that had me laughing a good amount of the time while reading!
Matty and Nora have know each other since high school. Each having a crush on the other, but never admitting to it. When Nora is being nosey as to why Matty's vehicle is parked at the bakery and he is not at home with his family on Thanksgiving, suddenly she's grabbed and Matty punches that someone and throws her in his vehicle and takes off! Not exactly what she thought he was doing on Thanksgiving, nor was being kidnapped. Off they go on a trip to the "treehouse". Matty is not who she thought he was!
I loved going to Bad Dog as well as visiting the characters that live there! There's never a dull time in that town! Wonderful story, that had me laughing a good amount of the time while reading!
October 23, 2023
So much fun!
Once again, we are back in Bad Dog and get to learn Matty’s story, the younger McGuire brother, and sweet Nora who is deathly afraid of animals through no fault of her own.
Nora has pined for Matty for years and finally decides to track his mysterious ways down which puts her in the sights of some not so nice individuals.
What ensues is a hilarious romp with sexy times and a belching cat who helps Nora overcome her fear of the four-legged kind!
I adored Nora, Matty, and Clyde with a side of Bear.
This was an absolute entertaining read that will have you laughing, swearing, and just having the best time. I can’t wait to be back in Bad Dog again!!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
Once again, we are back in Bad Dog and get to learn Matty’s story, the younger McGuire brother, and sweet Nora who is deathly afraid of animals through no fault of her own.
Nora has pined for Matty for years and finally decides to track his mysterious ways down which puts her in the sights of some not so nice individuals.
What ensues is a hilarious romp with sexy times and a belching cat who helps Nora overcome her fear of the four-legged kind!
I adored Nora, Matty, and Clyde with a side of Bear.
This was an absolute entertaining read that will have you laughing, swearing, and just having the best time. I can’t wait to be back in Bad Dog again!!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
January 20, 2024
Fun & Unique
This story is about a sexy “bad guy” that Nora can’t seem to stay away from. When she learns his truth after he kidnaps her she falls for him more and more.
Turns out he’s been in love with or at least infatuated with her for YEARS and after spending two days with her his infatuation changes to full blown love as if it was just waiting to blossom all along.
Sam for her. She’s had some level of feelings for him and they were in HS and once they break the dam there’s no going back.
This book was full of action and adventure, a little mystery, and some adorable cat napping to boot lol
Has the humor Lili portrays on social media and just some hints of seriousness to keep you engaged lol
This story is about a sexy “bad guy” that Nora can’t seem to stay away from. When she learns his truth after he kidnaps her she falls for him more and more.
Turns out he’s been in love with or at least infatuated with her for YEARS and after spending two days with her his infatuation changes to full blown love as if it was just waiting to blossom all along.
Sam for her. She’s had some level of feelings for him and they were in HS and once they break the dam there’s no going back.
This book was full of action and adventure, a little mystery, and some adorable cat napping to boot lol
Has the humor Lili portrays on social media and just some hints of seriousness to keep you engaged lol
July 28, 2024
Well, I do think I'd have been better off to re-read the first 3 books before I finally dived into KOASJ - it took a few chapters before I felt mentally caught up with all the shenanigans going on in Bad Dog.
Nora Boudreaux has had a crush on Matty McGuire half her life. He always seems to be there when she needs saving, but he's never (except that one kiss) indicated that he felt anything romantic for her.
This time around, when Matty saves Nora from the Sweetwaters, she finally learns all of Matty's secrets and decides that she want to help him in this last chapter of his first career.
Quick and easy read with a lot of action (all kinds of action) to keep you entertained for a few hours.
Nora Boudreaux has had a crush on Matty McGuire half her life. He always seems to be there when she needs saving, but he's never (except that one kiss) indicated that he felt anything romantic for her.
This time around, when Matty saves Nora from the Sweetwaters, she finally learns all of Matty's secrets and decides that she want to help him in this last chapter of his first career.
Quick and easy read with a lot of action (all kinds of action) to keep you entertained for a few hours.
February 2, 2026
Entire series in audio. Good author and narrator! I recently reviewed something with a comment that it would have been better with more attention to the animals. Well, this series delivers that, plus. It's full of offbeat pets, support animals, and crazy wildlife antics.
Bad Dog, the name of the small town, is a clue to the craziness that ensues. There are so many cousins and in-laws in this community that people say they can't date without knowing who someone is connected to.
A fun Rom Com series I found in Hoopla. I'll be looking for more by this author. Same review added to each book in the series.
Bad Dog, the name of the small town, is a clue to the craziness that ensues. There are so many cousins and in-laws in this community that people say they can't date without knowing who someone is connected to.
A fun Rom Com series I found in Hoopla. I'll be looking for more by this author. Same review added to each book in the series.
October 25, 2023
Kind of a Sexy Jerk takes us back to Bad Dog - a small town full of shenanigans, quirky characters, and unique pets! Matty and Nora are the main couple in this book and they are the perfect definition of opposites attract. "Her. Me. We just...fit." Their story has a little more action than the others, but features still features the light-hearted humor and steamy scenes like the other books in the series.
This is a great rom com and a quick read - the story will keep you interested! Another fun, steamy book by Lili Valente.
This is a great rom com and a quick read - the story will keep you interested! Another fun, steamy book by Lili Valente.
July 18, 2024
Nora has to be one of the funniest characters I meant. Nora has been in love Matty McGuire since she was a teenager. She finds Matty snooping around the local cupcakes, store. Which is believed to be run by the Mob. Nora believes Matty McGuire is in big trouble and she decides it her job to save him and make him a good guy.
Matthew McGuire is not part of the Mob but, does have a job to do. Save Clyde the famous belching Cat.
There is Lots of fun keeping Clyde safe from the real bad guys.
Definitely recommend. I recommend the whole series.
Matthew McGuire is not part of the Mob but, does have a job to do. Save Clyde the famous belching Cat.
There is Lots of fun keeping Clyde safe from the real bad guys.
Definitely recommend. I recommend the whole series.
October 21, 2023
I didn’t even stand a chance when it came to falling for Matty McGuire, er, I mean this book. Not only does he threaten Nora with a good time right off the bat, he balances being an actual hero with a crave-able “bad boy” image. Oh and he’s a genius. I was a goner after just one chapter. Add in a tough and observant heroine, a feline companion, and plenty of hijinks and it’s a recipe for an entertaining read that I devoured in one sitting.
November 13, 2023
3.5 stars
Back to Mad Dog and the McQuire family. Lots of incidental characters. A wild extended cast.
Funny little story of CIA operative and quirky funny sweet Nora. She’s been in earlier books. Matty, the mmc, has been in earlier books.
This is their story and it’s a doozy.
Stolen cat. Pregnant cat. Undercover Matty. Nosy and insightful Nora.
Ridiculous bad guys. Dumb and dumber?
Over the top plot.
Easy to finish in one read.
Back to Mad Dog and the McQuire family. Lots of incidental characters. A wild extended cast.
Funny little story of CIA operative and quirky funny sweet Nora. She’s been in earlier books. Matty, the mmc, has been in earlier books.
This is their story and it’s a doozy.
Stolen cat. Pregnant cat. Undercover Matty. Nosy and insightful Nora.
Ridiculous bad guys. Dumb and dumber?
Over the top plot.
Easy to finish in one read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2024
predictable
Shouldn’t have read these books back to back as I’m not sure I’m doing them justice. They feel manically stupid with the women simply not listening and just being totally gung ho. I liked matty and it was obvious there was a hidden agenda. Was another so so story that was just predictable. Gonna have a rest from this author as I’m obviously not seeing all the humour and romance others have.
Shouldn’t have read these books back to back as I’m not sure I’m doing them justice. They feel manically stupid with the women simply not listening and just being totally gung ho. I liked matty and it was obvious there was a hidden agenda. Was another so so story that was just predictable. Gonna have a rest from this author as I’m obviously not seeing all the humour and romance others have.
September 25, 2024
Loved this book!
I loved this story of Nora and Matty! These McGuire's are crazy and I love them. Nora is always finding trouble, and Matty keeps saving her. This time, she stumbled into the case he's working on, and now she's truly in danger. He keeps trying to push her away, but as she spends more time with him, he can't deny what he feels. I love the crazy antics they get into. I love this book and series! I highly recommend! I can't wait for Mel and Aaron's story!
I loved this story of Nora and Matty! These McGuire's are crazy and I love them. Nora is always finding trouble, and Matty keeps saving her. This time, she stumbled into the case he's working on, and now she's truly in danger. He keeps trying to push her away, but as she spends more time with him, he can't deny what he feels. I love the crazy antics they get into. I love this book and series! I highly recommend! I can't wait for Mel and Aaron's story!
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December 20, 2024Mattie and Norah’s story is full of fun, mystery, and excitement. I have enjoyed Lili Valente’s books…AND she is excellent as narrator along with Robert Hatchett. One disappointment—I have read 3-4 romance authors now who seem not to know that when you are INDOORS, you drop things onto the FLOOR—not the GROUND. The ground is outside. Floors are inside. I don’t understand how any person who has gone to school, could make that mistake.
October 18, 2023
Who doesn’t love a quick easy suspense book? Kind of a Sexy Jerk provides that in spades with a spy and a clumsy girl who goes on an adventure together to help break up a crime ring!
Matty and Nora balance each other well and they had some funny scenes that had me laughing. Their romance felt natural and easy going, I can’t wait to continue this series!
Matty and Nora balance each other well and they had some funny scenes that had me laughing. Their romance felt natural and easy going, I can’t wait to continue this series!
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