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Appies #4
Romancing the Grump
He’s a grump and happy to stay that way. But can her sunshine melt the ice around his heart?
Nathan Sanders didn't earn his reputation as the grouchiest player on the Appies hockey team by chance. So when Summer Callahan breezes into his life with her flirtatious smiles and endless charm, he responds like he always does: he completely ignores her.
But Summer is intrigued by the surly defenseman, so when a viral social media post requires her to step in and fake it as Nathan's girlfriend, she jumps at the chance. She's convinced the ones with the hardest shells are often the softest underneath, and she's determined to prove it.
But Nathan doesn't crack so easily. Despite their obvious chemistry, he makes his lack of interest in a relationship—any relationship—perfectly clear. But the longer they pretend, the less fake everything seems, and the more Summer starts to fall.
Nathan Sanders didn't earn his reputation as the grouchiest player on the Appies hockey team by chance. So when Summer Callahan breezes into his life with her flirtatious smiles and endless charm, he responds like he always does: he completely ignores her.
But Summer is intrigued by the surly defenseman, so when a viral social media post requires her to step in and fake it as Nathan's girlfriend, she jumps at the chance. She's convinced the ones with the hardest shells are often the softest underneath, and she's determined to prove it.
But Nathan doesn't crack so easily. Despite their obvious chemistry, he makes his lack of interest in a relationship—any relationship—perfectly clear. But the longer they pretend, the less fake everything seems, and the more Summer starts to fall.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2024
1220 people are currently reading
5581 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Proctor
39 books2,162 followersJenny Proctor is an award-winning author of more than fourteen romantic comedies and an Amazon bestseller. She began her career in publishing in 2013; her writing has been a constant since then, but she's also spent time as the owner and managing editor of Midnight Owl Editors and the chair of the Storymakers Conference. Wired for relationships, Jenny loves public speaking, teaching, and building lasting connections.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 919 reviews
August 24, 2024
I'm totally in my hockey era and can’t get enough of The Appies! Romancing the Grump is a swoon-fest, and I’m obsessed with Nathan and Summer’s story.
Nathan is your classic grumpy guy with a soft side, and while he’s usually a man of few words, he turns into a bumbling mess around Summer, and it's entertaining to read his inner thoughts! Summer, on the other hand, is fierce, determined, and keeps Nathan on his toes. She doesn't let him get away with his grumpy attitude and helps him grow, which was so sweet to watch. Their chemistry is off the charts—fun, flirty, and totally blush-worthy. Who knew Nathan had it in him?
Beyond their romance, I also loved the sense of family and community that shines through in this series. I’m loving how everyone supports each other, and this might just be my fave book in the series so far. And guess what? No long, drawn-out breakup—just a short "break," which made everything feel so real. If you're into a closed-door sports romance that's fun and not too sweet, this one's for you!
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Grumpy x sunshine
❤️🔥 Fake dating
❤️🔥 No third-act breakup
❤️🔥 Forced proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Workplace harassment, death of a parent, alcoholism
Nathan is your classic grumpy guy with a soft side, and while he’s usually a man of few words, he turns into a bumbling mess around Summer, and it's entertaining to read his inner thoughts! Summer, on the other hand, is fierce, determined, and keeps Nathan on his toes. She doesn't let him get away with his grumpy attitude and helps him grow, which was so sweet to watch. Their chemistry is off the charts—fun, flirty, and totally blush-worthy. Who knew Nathan had it in him?
Beyond their romance, I also loved the sense of family and community that shines through in this series. I’m loving how everyone supports each other, and this might just be my fave book in the series so far. And guess what? No long, drawn-out breakup—just a short "break," which made everything feel so real. If you're into a closed-door sports romance that's fun and not too sweet, this one's for you!
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Grumpy x sunshine
❤️🔥 Fake dating
❤️🔥 No third-act breakup
❤️🔥 Forced proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Workplace harassment, death of a parent, alcoholism
May 24, 2024
4.5-5⭐️ I am convinced that Jenny Proctor adds a touch of magic to every book she writes. There is something so distinctly special about each and every character in each and every series, and that trend continues with The Appies series.
Nathan is the grump with a heart of gold; Summer is sunshine incarnate, but with her own insecurities that make her entirely relatable. From the moment these two were on the page together (re: feisty banter over a parking space) I knew I wanted to come along for the ride.
This book features some of my favorite tropes, fake dating in particular, and each was used in the most perfect way, to complement the story rather than to be the story. Fake dating can sometimes feel very contrived and overpowering, but felt very much the opposite here. And the hockey? Proctor delivered on the hockey scenes; it is perfect for those who love hockey romance just as much for the hockey as the romance. Check 🏒
Ultimately, what I loved most about this book, and really Proctor’s writing in general, is the way in which she weaves together all of her series, not in a way that feels like you have missed a step if you’ve not read them, but rather that gives those who have read them an extra special peek into the lives of characters they have grown to love.
We all know the Hawthorne family has my heart, and it made my heart incredibly happy to read mentions of Flint and Audrey (Hawthorne Bros. #4). It is these small touches that end up creating a community you cannot help but want to be a part of, whether it be Silver Creek or Harvest Hollow.
I am excited to continue this series from both Proctor and her writing counterpart for the Appies, Emma St. Clair. I cannot wait to see what the next book will bring.
Read if you like:
•hockey romance
•small town vibes
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•grumpy x sunshine
•enemies(ish) to friends to lovers
•closed door romance
Thank you Jenny Proctor and Booked With The Emilys for the gifted copy.
Nathan is the grump with a heart of gold; Summer is sunshine incarnate, but with her own insecurities that make her entirely relatable. From the moment these two were on the page together (re: feisty banter over a parking space) I knew I wanted to come along for the ride.
This book features some of my favorite tropes, fake dating in particular, and each was used in the most perfect way, to complement the story rather than to be the story. Fake dating can sometimes feel very contrived and overpowering, but felt very much the opposite here. And the hockey? Proctor delivered on the hockey scenes; it is perfect for those who love hockey romance just as much for the hockey as the romance. Check 🏒
Ultimately, what I loved most about this book, and really Proctor’s writing in general, is the way in which she weaves together all of her series, not in a way that feels like you have missed a step if you’ve not read them, but rather that gives those who have read them an extra special peek into the lives of characters they have grown to love.
We all know the Hawthorne family has my heart, and it made my heart incredibly happy to read mentions of Flint and Audrey (Hawthorne Bros. #4). It is these small touches that end up creating a community you cannot help but want to be a part of, whether it be Silver Creek or Harvest Hollow.
I am excited to continue this series from both Proctor and her writing counterpart for the Appies, Emma St. Clair. I cannot wait to see what the next book will bring.
Read if you like:
•hockey romance
•small town vibes
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•grumpy x sunshine
•enemies(ish) to friends to lovers
•closed door romance
Thank you Jenny Proctor and Booked With The Emilys for the gifted copy.
May 14, 2024
I had a suspicion for a while now but after reading this book I am a proud to say I am a BIG fan of the grumpy x sunshine! This book was GREAT yall. I didn't realize it was spice free until mid-read but honestly, I don't know if it would have fit in this one. These characters were awesome. I loved meeting the side characters and trying to figure out who will be pairing off. I am probably going to read the first one because I am a legit series addict. This book made me smile with how determined Summer was to make Nathan smile. I loved learning more about their backgrounds and why they both are the way they are. I loved the little nuggets that Nathan started giving Summer that were like GOLD. Just overall a really easy summer read with some hot kisses and an HEA.
Summer is excited to start her new job. She is a little nervous but isn't letting it show. That is until she has a run in with none other than Nathan Sanders in the parking lot. The same Nathan who gave her all kinds of tingly feelings when they met each other in the fall at a festival. The same Nathan who is now scowling at her and looking like she is an inconvenience. And yay! This is her first day. Moving along with the story, Summer finds herself in a situation where she is asked to be Nathan's fake girlfriend for PR purposes. She doesn't mind because she is finally facing that she has some feelings for him. At least this way she will be able to spend some time with him and maybe work on getting him to smile more. Maybe she will get to know a little bit more about the team grump who she cant stop thinking about. Especially now that he has actually smiled, and they have kissed, and they are pretending RIGHT?! He has made it clear he can't do relationships, but Summer can't help but read into how he acts around her versus what he is saying. Could he be ready? Would he want to try with her because she definitely doesn't want to pretend anymore.
Nathan is happy. He is doing what he loves, and his team is doing better than expected. He has a problem now though. This PR campaign of his brooding pictures has turned a little too risqué for the team. Some of the fans are losing their minds which is when Parker, their PR person, comes up with Summer and Nathan fake dating. This way the fan ladies will cool off. The problem is Nathan doesn't know how to be a real boyfriend let alone a fake one. He just knows what to NOT do, and that is be how he remembers his dad. Which is why he has to keep reminding himself that him and Summer are just friends. Even though that kiss felt real. And waking up next to her felt real. And seeing his name on her does things to him. But definitely they are just friends. But maybe he could try to break the mold that he has kept himself in. IF he could do it for anyone, it would be Summer.
I haven't read anything by Jenny before but will definitely be looking into her other series which is in the same universe as this from what I can tell with some characters that we have met. I liked the lightness of this one. The angst and heat were hot but again no spice. Lots of thoughts about things happening but nothing more than kisses which fits this story. This one made me smile, and I hope it will make you smile too!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Summer is excited to start her new job. She is a little nervous but isn't letting it show. That is until she has a run in with none other than Nathan Sanders in the parking lot. The same Nathan who gave her all kinds of tingly feelings when they met each other in the fall at a festival. The same Nathan who is now scowling at her and looking like she is an inconvenience. And yay! This is her first day. Moving along with the story, Summer finds herself in a situation where she is asked to be Nathan's fake girlfriend for PR purposes. She doesn't mind because she is finally facing that she has some feelings for him. At least this way she will be able to spend some time with him and maybe work on getting him to smile more. Maybe she will get to know a little bit more about the team grump who she cant stop thinking about. Especially now that he has actually smiled, and they have kissed, and they are pretending RIGHT?! He has made it clear he can't do relationships, but Summer can't help but read into how he acts around her versus what he is saying. Could he be ready? Would he want to try with her because she definitely doesn't want to pretend anymore.
Nathan is happy. He is doing what he loves, and his team is doing better than expected. He has a problem now though. This PR campaign of his brooding pictures has turned a little too risqué for the team. Some of the fans are losing their minds which is when Parker, their PR person, comes up with Summer and Nathan fake dating. This way the fan ladies will cool off. The problem is Nathan doesn't know how to be a real boyfriend let alone a fake one. He just knows what to NOT do, and that is be how he remembers his dad. Which is why he has to keep reminding himself that him and Summer are just friends. Even though that kiss felt real. And waking up next to her felt real. And seeing his name on her does things to him. But definitely they are just friends. But maybe he could try to break the mold that he has kept himself in. IF he could do it for anyone, it would be Summer.
I haven't read anything by Jenny before but will definitely be looking into her other series which is in the same universe as this from what I can tell with some characters that we have met. I liked the lightness of this one. The angst and heat were hot but again no spice. Lots of thoughts about things happening but nothing more than kisses which fits this story. This one made me smile, and I hope it will make you smile too!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
February 24, 2025
Romancing the Grump by Jenny Proctor
4 Stars
Book 4 in the Appies Series
Blog Post with review graphic: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
REALLY enjoyed this one! We have another book in the Appies series and it was SWOON-worthy yall! You know I LOVED a good grumpy sunshine trope and this did not disappoint! Nathan's character had so much depth with the reasons behind his rough exterior and Summer was the one girl who is all sunshine and warmth to break behind his walls.
In this book we have Nathan who is a no-nonsense brooding hockey player for the Appies hockey team - he keeps everyone at arm's length. Summer is determined to break through his icy exterior. Circumstances force them into a fake dating arrangement and Summer sees it at the perfect opportunity to get to who Nathan truly is inside.
The banter, heartfelt moments and chemistry between the characters were great. Loved the forced proximity and her taking care of him when he gets sick. I also loved seeing the other Appies hockey players, they crack me up!
If you love these tropes, check this out!
*Content: Clean romance/closed door, few mild words of language but small.
4 Stars
Book 4 in the Appies Series
Blog Post with review graphic: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
REALLY enjoyed this one! We have another book in the Appies series and it was SWOON-worthy yall! You know I LOVED a good grumpy sunshine trope and this did not disappoint! Nathan's character had so much depth with the reasons behind his rough exterior and Summer was the one girl who is all sunshine and warmth to break behind his walls.
In this book we have Nathan who is a no-nonsense brooding hockey player for the Appies hockey team - he keeps everyone at arm's length. Summer is determined to break through his icy exterior. Circumstances force them into a fake dating arrangement and Summer sees it at the perfect opportunity to get to who Nathan truly is inside.
The banter, heartfelt moments and chemistry between the characters were great. Loved the forced proximity and her taking care of him when he gets sick. I also loved seeing the other Appies hockey players, they crack me up!
If you love these tropes, check this out!
*Content: Clean romance/closed door, few mild words of language but small.
April 20, 2024
Ugh I love these books so much! Seriously I want to be a member of the Appies franchise. Grumpy x sunshine, fake dating, forced proximity, she takes care of him when he’s sick, closed door romance, HEA….literally how could you not love this book!
May 7, 2024
Thank you so much NetGalley and JPC publishing for this eARC!
Romancing the grump is the 2nd book in the Appies series and tough I didn’t know it at first ( my fault entirely) it was nice to see this can totally be read as a standalone.
This is a YA romance and we follow Summer Callahan, who just took a job as a legal counsel for the Appies, small Hockey Team. There, she meets Nathan again, the guy she is attracted to but rejected her a few months ago and who also happen to be one of the players on the team. He is grumpy and is against relationships.
I’m usually not into love at first sight, I prefer slow burn romances but this was a truly cute, swoon worthy kind of romance. It’s grumpy x sunshine, fake relationship, friends to lovers, we get a dual POV and I loved the fact that Summer is a girl who owns her feelings and isn’t afraid to say whatever she thinks. Nathan felt a lot more complex character though, with his daddy issues and his no dating rule. I really appreciated his character nonetheless, and the way he can always tell her apart from her twin sister.
Their relationship was really sweet and there’s a lot of respect and protectiveness on both parts.
I feel like I have to say that this has no spice whatsoever but if you’re into feel good, cute love story, this might just be the one for you!!!
Romancing the grump is the 2nd book in the Appies series and tough I didn’t know it at first ( my fault entirely) it was nice to see this can totally be read as a standalone.
This is a YA romance and we follow Summer Callahan, who just took a job as a legal counsel for the Appies, small Hockey Team. There, she meets Nathan again, the guy she is attracted to but rejected her a few months ago and who also happen to be one of the players on the team. He is grumpy and is against relationships.
I’m usually not into love at first sight, I prefer slow burn romances but this was a truly cute, swoon worthy kind of romance. It’s grumpy x sunshine, fake relationship, friends to lovers, we get a dual POV and I loved the fact that Summer is a girl who owns her feelings and isn’t afraid to say whatever she thinks. Nathan felt a lot more complex character though, with his daddy issues and his no dating rule. I really appreciated his character nonetheless, and the way he can always tell her apart from her twin sister.
Their relationship was really sweet and there’s a lot of respect and protectiveness on both parts.
I feel like I have to say that this has no spice whatsoever but if you’re into feel good, cute love story, this might just be the one for you!!!
April 20, 2024
SHUT. THE . FRONT . DOOR.
I don’t think I ever read a book this fast
I don’t think I ever read a book this fast
May 17, 2024
this was so cute 😭😭😭
May 2, 2024
I need more Appies Please!!!! I can't tell you how happy I am that Jenny Proctor and another author had such a great response to their books in the Sweater Weather series about some hockey players and that led to them each writing another book about a hockey player from the Appies hockey team! And I don't think any of their fans will complain if they kept writing more! *Hint, Hint* *Winks*
This one is a grumpy/sunshine trope and I loved how the author pulled it off! It's not my favorite trope but I still read several books with that trope. But this one definitely is in my top favorites that includes this trope!
I just adored everything about Nathan and Summer. You don't quite know what to get from Nathan but he was a wonderful surprise for Summer around every turn. And their banter was top notch! I giggled and laughed out loud so many times with these two! I loved it! And I was swooning too!
There were several sweet and tender moments woven throughout as well that just had me loving these two even more. And can I just say a brooding hockey player standing up to protect a woman is pretty awesome to read about! You'll know what scene I'm talking about when you get there! Be still my heart! ;-)
Read all of the Appies books and go back and read the Sweater Weather books as well. Lots of great reading material there!!!
Content: Clean. Some talk of team members drinking alcohol, talk of a family member who suffered from alcoholism. A few kisses but nothing further. No language. I'd let my teenagers read it.
I received a copy from the publisher/author, JPC Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This one is a grumpy/sunshine trope and I loved how the author pulled it off! It's not my favorite trope but I still read several books with that trope. But this one definitely is in my top favorites that includes this trope!
I just adored everything about Nathan and Summer. You don't quite know what to get from Nathan but he was a wonderful surprise for Summer around every turn. And their banter was top notch! I giggled and laughed out loud so many times with these two! I loved it! And I was swooning too!
There were several sweet and tender moments woven throughout as well that just had me loving these two even more. And can I just say a brooding hockey player standing up to protect a woman is pretty awesome to read about! You'll know what scene I'm talking about when you get there! Be still my heart! ;-)
Read all of the Appies books and go back and read the Sweater Weather books as well. Lots of great reading material there!!!
Content: Clean. Some talk of team members drinking alcohol, talk of a family member who suffered from alcoholism. A few kisses but nothing further. No language. I'd let my teenagers read it.
I received a copy from the publisher/author, JPC Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 7, 2025
This book was SOOOO good, and if life hadn’t hit me like a TON OF BRICKS I would’ve read it in one sitting.
I absolutely loved Summer & Nathan! Their interactions made me giggle & kick my feet. Then we added fake dating and I was a GONER!
Their chemistry was off the charts. But their friendship was FANTASTIC and I loved seeing them get to know each other.
Nathan’s character growth was *chefs kiss*
And Summer being his cheerleader through it was FABULOUS!
It had all the feels! AND THE APPIES TEAM TOGETHER WAS TOP TIER ENTERTAINMENT!! 😍🤩
Absolutely adored every moment of it!
5/5 stars!
I absolutely loved Summer & Nathan! Their interactions made me giggle & kick my feet. Then we added fake dating and I was a GONER!
Their chemistry was off the charts. But their friendship was FANTASTIC and I loved seeing them get to know each other.
Nathan’s character growth was *chefs kiss*
And Summer being his cheerleader through it was FABULOUS!
It had all the feels! AND THE APPIES TEAM TOGETHER WAS TOP TIER ENTERTAINMENT!! 😍🤩
Absolutely adored every moment of it!
5/5 stars!
May 23, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
Can Summer tame brooding beast, Nathan?
This is book 4 in the Appies book series and I loved it! This one follows grump Nathan who plays on the AHL team the Appies and Summer who has just been hired as the team’s legal counsel.
Jenny truly gets better with every book she writes! I just loved these two and the tie in with Jenny’s Hawthorne brothers series! Summer is Audrey’s sister from 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙆𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧.
Jenny’s books are closed door, but she excels at bringing the tension and heat. 🔥 I just wanted these two to finally admit their feelings to one another! 😆 There was no denying there was chemistry between them.
I love this hockey team and their interactions with one another. So far Nathan and Felix are my favorites, but I’m anxious for a few more guys to get their stories.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
•fake dating
•grumpy/sunshine
•hockey romcoms
•laugh out loud moments
•she takes care of him while sick
Can Summer tame brooding beast, Nathan?
This is book 4 in the Appies book series and I loved it! This one follows grump Nathan who plays on the AHL team the Appies and Summer who has just been hired as the team’s legal counsel.
Jenny truly gets better with every book she writes! I just loved these two and the tie in with Jenny’s Hawthorne brothers series! Summer is Audrey’s sister from 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙆𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧.
Jenny’s books are closed door, but she excels at bringing the tension and heat. 🔥 I just wanted these two to finally admit their feelings to one another! 😆 There was no denying there was chemistry between them.
I love this hockey team and their interactions with one another. So far Nathan and Felix are my favorites, but I’m anxious for a few more guys to get their stories.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
•fake dating
•grumpy/sunshine
•hockey romcoms
•laugh out loud moments
•she takes care of him while sick
April 21, 2024
I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
I loved this book. I love the Appies and I want books for all of them, they are such a good found family and their stories are always entertening. This couple never gave up, especially Summer, she fell even knowing that he may never be with her because of his personal problems. But she took a risk and it definitely paid off. Nathan was fighting so hard to not fall for Summer but it was pointless. He was so captivated by her that everyone could the love between them. I loved how they were all rooting for them, it was adorable. They deserved to have their love lived and I was so glad that they could do it. The whole fake relationship thing was basically a real one, Nathan just had to admit it
I loved this book. I love the Appies and I want books for all of them, they are such a good found family and their stories are always entertening. This couple never gave up, especially Summer, she fell even knowing that he may never be with her because of his personal problems. But she took a risk and it definitely paid off. Nathan was fighting so hard to not fall for Summer but it was pointless. He was so captivated by her that everyone could the love between them. I loved how they were all rooting for them, it was adorable. They deserved to have their love lived and I was so glad that they could do it. The whole fake relationship thing was basically a real one, Nathan just had to admit it
May 13, 2024
Oh, be still my beating heart but that was just perfection. Nathan and Summer, your story made me feel all the feels. I didn't want it to end.
Sweet, funny, tug at your heartstrings perfection. Great writing, great cast of characters. Why haven't I read any of Appies books before?!
Romancing The Grump is just perfect. It's got that perfect balance of ingredients. Enough sweetness, enough spice, sprinkles of laughter but also heavier emotional issues. There's a tiny bit of ice hockey too. And I do love hockey. I'm just swooning over here but I just loved that book.
So I'm off to get the other Appies books and if you love sweet romance books, do yourself a favour, and read them too.
I want to thank NetGalley and JPC Publishing for my copy of the book.
Sweet, funny, tug at your heartstrings perfection. Great writing, great cast of characters. Why haven't I read any of Appies books before?!
Romancing The Grump is just perfect. It's got that perfect balance of ingredients. Enough sweetness, enough spice, sprinkles of laughter but also heavier emotional issues. There's a tiny bit of ice hockey too. And I do love hockey. I'm just swooning over here but I just loved that book.
So I'm off to get the other Appies books and if you love sweet romance books, do yourself a favour, and read them too.
I want to thank NetGalley and JPC Publishing for my copy of the book.
April 7, 2025
A BILLION STARS!!! Ugh this was beautiful and a new favorite!!!
May 23, 2024
2.5/5 ⭐️
0/5 🌶️
this book was okay. i didn’t completely hate it but it felt like a 200 page book you find in a little free library that you pick up just cause it was free.
i did like the characters, i just feel like we were missing major character development and a genuine connection between them. like where did the love and romance come in? it felt like 2 platonic friends who had a love confession at the end.
it would have been nice if once nathan started accepting his feelings, we got more tension buildup between them until it finally snapped.
i think it needed to be longer. both the story and the characters needed more depth. i just didn’t feel emotionally invested at any point.
the dialogue was decent and i liked the premise of the story!
0/5 🌶️
this book was okay. i didn’t completely hate it but it felt like a 200 page book you find in a little free library that you pick up just cause it was free.
i did like the characters, i just feel like we were missing major character development and a genuine connection between them. like where did the love and romance come in? it felt like 2 platonic friends who had a love confession at the end.
it would have been nice if once nathan started accepting his feelings, we got more tension buildup between them until it finally snapped.
i think it needed to be longer. both the story and the characters needed more depth. i just didn’t feel emotionally invested at any point.
the dialogue was decent and i liked the premise of the story!
February 11, 2025
The Appies series is one of my absolute favorites and I am slowly listening my way through all of the books. I love this series so much that I have purchased each book in all of their available formats! I know! I just can’t help myself.
If you are a fan of sweet and clean hockey romances, this series is one you should definitely read. You can jump into any book, as they are all written so they can be enjoyed as stand alones, however, I really love the experience that the authors have created by crafting these stories of teammates who are also close friends. So, I love reading them in order when possible.
This is the second book that I have read this week where the male main character feels that he cannot, in good conscience, enter into a relationship due to the troubles that he experienced as a child, growing up in a family where love didn’t conquer all. But, of course, Nathan falls for Summer anyway, even though he puts up as many walls and boundaries as he can.
I love the fake dating trop because it gives the characters a reason that they must act as if they are in love when they are in public. This story had the great twist that Summer realized early on that she cared for Nathan, so her feelings quickly became real. It added some great tension. Both of these characters were just so wonderful and I couldn’t help but love them both. And I loved that Summer ended up taking care of Nathan when he was sick. It was a beautiful turning point for them, too.
Once again, as with all of the prior Appies books, I loved it from start to finish, which included an epilogue and even a bonus epilogue!
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
If you are a fan of sweet and clean hockey romances, this series is one you should definitely read. You can jump into any book, as they are all written so they can be enjoyed as stand alones, however, I really love the experience that the authors have created by crafting these stories of teammates who are also close friends. So, I love reading them in order when possible.
This is the second book that I have read this week where the male main character feels that he cannot, in good conscience, enter into a relationship due to the troubles that he experienced as a child, growing up in a family where love didn’t conquer all. But, of course, Nathan falls for Summer anyway, even though he puts up as many walls and boundaries as he can.
I love the fake dating trop because it gives the characters a reason that they must act as if they are in love when they are in public. This story had the great twist that Summer realized early on that she cared for Nathan, so her feelings quickly became real. It added some great tension. Both of these characters were just so wonderful and I couldn’t help but love them both. And I loved that Summer ended up taking care of Nathan when he was sick. It was a beautiful turning point for them, too.
Once again, as with all of the prior Appies books, I loved it from start to finish, which included an epilogue and even a bonus epilogue!
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 2, 2024
What like a siren called me to read this book
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- hockey romance
-FMC pursuing MMC
-Closed doors
Nice moments between Summer and Nathan and loved these two together even though he is not pursuing her bur vice versa, liked him and his family dynamic….
What I disliked and takes away 2 stars is TIK TOK quoting and not subtly done ad.
Too much tik toking
All in all cute and nice to read
Thank you so much to, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- hockey romance
-FMC pursuing MMC
-Closed doors
Nice moments between Summer and Nathan and loved these two together even though he is not pursuing her bur vice versa, liked him and his family dynamic….
What I disliked and takes away 2 stars is TIK TOK quoting and not subtly done ad.
Too much tik toking
All in all cute and nice to read
Thank you so much to, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy
April 24, 2024
“I don’t think you’re half as grumpy as people say you are. You’ve got this broody, frowny persona publicly, but deep down, you’re kind of a big softie.”
Nathan Sanders is a secondary character in previous books about the Appies hockey team, and I’ve been anxiously waiting for his story. It was so worth the wait!
Jenny and Emma St. Clair have created a marvelous hockey romance series, and like the other books, Romancing the Grump has a fabulous romance, great chemistry between the MCs, funny and witty dialogue, entertaining interactions with the characters from the previous books, and an engaging storyline that pulled me right in. I loved it!
Nathan is a major grump who has sworn off any relationships while playing hockey. After some female fans get out of control, online and in person, having a fake girlfriend seems like a good way to solve the problem.
Summer Callahan Is a lawyer for the team and agrees to be Nathan’s fake girlfriend, but quickly falls for him and very much wants to be his real girlfriend.
Nathan and Summer were perfect together. She’s one of the few people that can make him smile and crack the ice around his heart. I loved how protective he was of Summer and everyone else that he really cared about.
Summer was such a likable character. I loved how smart, capable, sassy, and supportive she was. And I loved that she openly communicated her feelings.
The grumpy/sunshine trope is one of my very favorites, and this one was just SO good! If you enjoy this trope, I highly recommend this gem.
This is part of a series, but can certainly be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC!
April 23, 2024
I think the best word that sums up this book is cute. I don't read a lot of YA romance so I knew going into it I wasn't going to be getting a Elle Kennedyesqe hockey romance, but this was an easy, fun read overall.
So, things I liked:
✅ Fake dating (the superior trope)
✅ Grumpy x sunshine
✅ Hockey romance (another fav)
✅ Her taking care of him when he's sick (I was obsessed with that moment in The Hating Game, and I've been chasing that high ever since)
✅ There's really not a third act break up. Because the FMC is an adult and is able to use her words. So refreshing.
Things I didn't love:
❌ The whole reason for fake dating was a little ridiculous. A hashtag is trending that the social media manager doesn't like so her solution is to have Nathan get a fake girlfriend.
❌ The Epilogue. I thought it was rushed and made Summer seem annoying (I'd say more, but I don't want to spoil anything)
❌ Is there any point in having the "only one bed" moment if no one get naked? (In my humble opinion, no there isn't).
There's lots of secondary characters and most of them I liked. I'm sure it's a lot more exciting when all these random people pop up from her other books for people who have actually read them (I have not so I didn't know squat about anyone).
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So, things I liked:
✅ Fake dating (the superior trope)
✅ Grumpy x sunshine
✅ Hockey romance (another fav)
✅ Her taking care of him when he's sick (I was obsessed with that moment in The Hating Game, and I've been chasing that high ever since)
✅ There's really not a third act break up. Because the FMC is an adult and is able to use her words. So refreshing.
Things I didn't love:
❌ The whole reason for fake dating was a little ridiculous. A hashtag is trending that the social media manager doesn't like so her solution is to have Nathan get a fake girlfriend.
❌ The Epilogue. I thought it was rushed and made Summer seem annoying (I'd say more, but I don't want to spoil anything)
❌ Is there any point in having the "only one bed" moment if no one get naked? (In my humble opinion, no there isn't).
There's lots of secondary characters and most of them I liked. I'm sure it's a lot more exciting when all these random people pop up from her other books for people who have actually read them (I have not so I didn't know squat about anyone).
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2025
Book 4 wasn't as good as book 3 or 2, but way better than the 1st one. This story had fake dating which is funny since the FMC is the sister of another character from the Hawthorne series by Jenny Proctor, who was also in a fake dating relationship. This also had a grumpy sunshine trope as well.
There was a glimpse of a potential romance between the main characters in book 2. The FMC is the best friend of gracie who is the main love interest in book 2 so we get to see a little begining of character development with the MMC and FMC early on.
The main thing I love about this series is the friendship between all the characters it makes the stories 100 times better. All the Men in this series are so sweet!
There was a glimpse of a potential romance between the main characters in book 2. The FMC is the best friend of gracie who is the main love interest in book 2 so we get to see a little begining of character development with the MMC and FMC early on.
The main thing I love about this series is the friendship between all the characters it makes the stories 100 times better. All the Men in this series are so sweet!
April 24, 2024
grumpy sunshine books never fails me!!! this book is so so good! the characters are super loveable and i adore them so much, super swoony that i can't stop smiling, giggling, and kicking my feet!! the found family between the hockey teammates is so wholesome and i was having so much fun reading this book! there is no single reason that makes me not to love this book!
🏒grumpy x sunshine
🏒 fake dating
🏒 hockey romance
🏒workplace romance
🏒 she takes care of him while she sick
🏒 he saves her from creepy ex-boss
🏒 found family and funny hockey teammates
(im still smiling while writing this review because aaaah i love them so much! nathansummer forever<33)
🏒grumpy x sunshine
🏒 fake dating
🏒 hockey romance
🏒workplace romance
🏒 she takes care of him while she sick
🏒 he saves her from creepy ex-boss
🏒 found family and funny hockey teammates
(im still smiling while writing this review because aaaah i love them so much! nathansummer forever<33)
August 13, 2024
The MC was too realistic if I wanted a realistic I'd go get myself one irl
November 12, 2024
me: when it comes to the Appies, you can’t top Felix 😍
Jenny: *casually gives us Nathan*
me: ….. and now we have a problem
At this point, several authors have done this to me (Dana LeCheminant with Kit Morgan & Chad Briggs; Annah Conwell with Bash & Adrian; Emma St. Clair with Chase & James). 😂 So I’m not picking a favourite—both of these fellas are gems in their own way, and I love them for it.
Also, the team dynamics get better and better with each new book in the series! 🥹 And the “DreamTeam” group chat? I. Am. Wheezing. 😂
If you’re looking for heart, humour, and hockey, look no further!
4.5 ⭐️
Content: semi-descriptive making out scenes; mild language
Jenny: *casually gives us Nathan*
me: ….. and now we have a problem
At this point, several authors have done this to me (Dana LeCheminant with Kit Morgan & Chad Briggs; Annah Conwell with Bash & Adrian; Emma St. Clair with Chase & James). 😂 So I’m not picking a favourite—both of these fellas are gems in their own way, and I love them for it.
Also, the team dynamics get better and better with each new book in the series! 🥹 And the “DreamTeam” group chat? I. Am. Wheezing. 😂
If you’re looking for heart, humour, and hockey, look no further!
4.5 ⭐️
Content: semi-descriptive making out scenes; mild language
April 23, 2024
3.5 Stars
🏒 The vibes:
- hockey romance
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- Family dysfunction
🥅 My thoughts:
I rarely turn down a hockey closed door romance. I was excited to read this one because I’ve enjoyed the Appies in previous books. Summer and Nathan were both instantly attracted to eachother but when Nathan expresses that he won’t be in a relationship while playing hockey, Summer is very disappointed but pretty relentless in her pursuit of him.
🏒 There were some very cute moments that I loved between Nathan and Summer, especially when she took care of him when he was sick. I loved Nathan in general (though I wouldn’t consider him a grump by any means). I liked seeing him with his family; I really enjoyed the entire plot line involving his family past dysfunction and the resolution with that entire situation. My favorite part of the book is Nathan and his journey of learning how to let Summer get past his walls.
🥅 There’s a lot of social media/tik tok in the plot which isn’t my favorite element (probably because I’m old). I didn’t love the emphasis on TikTok, and this book made me dislike Parker’s job and judgment, to be honest. It made me question if pushing atheletes in Tik Tok should be a thing. I don’t think that’s the point of the book- but it definitely made me weary of it. Again- I’m old 😂🙈.
🥅 My main gripe aside from a heavy Tik Tok plot- is a personal preference thing but I’m learning that I don’t love when it’s the FMC that is chasing the MMC or being the primary pursuer. I think I prefer he falls first/harder than the opposite of that- so that was an element that wasn’t my favorite. The attraction and pursuit was instant and I typically prefer a slower progression, but overall I still enjoyed this book and would continue reading anything Appies related.
Release date: April 23, 2024.
Thank you so much to Jenny Proctor, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy.
🏒 The vibes:
- hockey romance
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- Family dysfunction
🥅 My thoughts:
I rarely turn down a hockey closed door romance. I was excited to read this one because I’ve enjoyed the Appies in previous books. Summer and Nathan were both instantly attracted to eachother but when Nathan expresses that he won’t be in a relationship while playing hockey, Summer is very disappointed but pretty relentless in her pursuit of him.
🏒 There were some very cute moments that I loved between Nathan and Summer, especially when she took care of him when he was sick. I loved Nathan in general (though I wouldn’t consider him a grump by any means). I liked seeing him with his family; I really enjoyed the entire plot line involving his family past dysfunction and the resolution with that entire situation. My favorite part of the book is Nathan and his journey of learning how to let Summer get past his walls.
🥅 There’s a lot of social media/tik tok in the plot which isn’t my favorite element (probably because I’m old). I didn’t love the emphasis on TikTok, and this book made me dislike Parker’s job and judgment, to be honest. It made me question if pushing atheletes in Tik Tok should be a thing. I don’t think that’s the point of the book- but it definitely made me weary of it. Again- I’m old 😂🙈.
🥅 My main gripe aside from a heavy Tik Tok plot- is a personal preference thing but I’m learning that I don’t love when it’s the FMC that is chasing the MMC or being the primary pursuer. I think I prefer he falls first/harder than the opposite of that- so that was an element that wasn’t my favorite. The attraction and pursuit was instant and I typically prefer a slower progression, but overall I still enjoyed this book and would continue reading anything Appies related.
Release date: April 23, 2024.
Thank you so much to Jenny Proctor, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy.
April 21, 2024
Romancing the Grump is the fourth book in the Appies series, and I absolutely enjoyed it! A fake dating, grumpy x sunshine, sweet hockey romance? Yes, please!
I was so excited for Summer to get her own book after getting to know her a little bit in Jenny Proctor’s other books, and I cannot get enough of the Appies hockey team. Nathan and Summer’s story was lovely. I loved Summer’s fiery, loving personality with Nathan’s grouchy but secretly very sweet personality. The banter, as always, was phenomenal. I was smiling and giggling pretty much the entire time I was reading this one, and the ending was so heartwarming.
I just love all the connections in this book, too. The way that Summer and her sisters are so close, the brotherhood vibes from the hockey team, connections from other Jenny books, the hockey girlfriend friendships–it’s all very sweet.
I’ve become the biggest Appie fan, and I can’t wait to hopefully get more of the Appies in the future.
Huge thank you to @jennyproctor for writing another incredible book for us but also for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited for Summer to get her own book after getting to know her a little bit in Jenny Proctor’s other books, and I cannot get enough of the Appies hockey team. Nathan and Summer’s story was lovely. I loved Summer’s fiery, loving personality with Nathan’s grouchy but secretly very sweet personality. The banter, as always, was phenomenal. I was smiling and giggling pretty much the entire time I was reading this one, and the ending was so heartwarming.
I just love all the connections in this book, too. The way that Summer and her sisters are so close, the brotherhood vibes from the hockey team, connections from other Jenny books, the hockey girlfriend friendships–it’s all very sweet.
I’ve become the biggest Appie fan, and I can’t wait to hopefully get more of the Appies in the future.
Huge thank you to @jennyproctor for writing another incredible book for us but also for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2024
Él es el gruñón del equipo de hockey, puede parecer duro por fuera, pero tiene un gran corazón. Ella entra en su vida con su encanto y sonrisas. Él se siente intrigado, aunque lo oculte bajo su actitud gruñona.
La verdad estuve muy ocupada con la uni y me costo mucho seguirle el rollo a la historia, pero lo disfrute a pesar de que iba poco a poco leyéndola. En lo personal no fueron personajes muy memorables, pero disfrute leyendo la historia porque se lee rápido solo que no tenía mucho tiempo para leer.
Si buscan un grumpy x sunshine este esta bueno ✨
Muchas gracias por el arc a netgalley
La verdad estuve muy ocupada con la uni y me costo mucho seguirle el rollo a la historia, pero lo disfrute a pesar de que iba poco a poco leyéndola. En lo personal no fueron personajes muy memorables, pero disfrute leyendo la historia porque se lee rápido solo que no tenía mucho tiempo para leer.
Si buscan un grumpy x sunshine este esta bueno ✨
Muchas gracias por el arc a netgalley
April 21, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. Summer's unconditional love for Nathan, and her willingness to give her all to him, even if it meant risking a broken heart, was heartwarming. Witnessing Nathan's struggle to come to terms with what he once thought was impossible, and his eventual acceptance of the truth, was truly rewarding. The side characters were well-developed, and the humorous banter between the boys was a delight. I am eager to read more stories set in this world.
August 18, 2025
It took me a while to get into this story, but the character growth that Nate went through is what made the whole book worth while to me. The ending pulls it all together well.
There were some weird parts though. Like, who kisses someone after they throw up. Eww. I also felt like there was a little more language in this book than the previous books too, but maybe thats just me.
There were some weird parts though. Like, who kisses someone after they throw up. Eww. I also felt like there was a little more language in this book than the previous books too, but maybe thats just me.
April 29, 2024
I didn’t think it was possible to too Felix, but this giant grumpy idiot just might 🤣
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