Hearts and Glowers

by K.M. Gillis

Fourteen Shades of Red: Day 9

Meet Noel: a workaholic on track to become the youngest partner in his accounting firm’s history. He sees the world in black and white, but when a doe-eyed new hire at the firm starts wasting company time, he’s suddenly seeing red.

Enter Candy: She’s determined to prove to herself and her family that she can thrive in a new city on her terms. A hopeless romantic, her eternal optimism is put to the test by her gorgeous yet grumpy coworker.

She’s sweet, he’s sour. But these two opposites definitely attract. Tempers and passions will flare, but can they fight the fire between them without getting burned?

Genres: Romance, Novella, Workplace Romance, Smut, Contemporary, Holiday, Fiction

54 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2024

About the author

K.M. Gillis writes contemporary romance novels with laughs, spice, and happily ever afters.
She lives with her husband and daughter in Prince Edward Island.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmgillisaut...

Reviews

[Jennifer J Knorr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick and very easy read. How I wish there was more. Like i wanted to know how the mom reacted to her name. Lol

[Hayley Gallant · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

* Thankyou to the author for a copy of this ARC

This was a short, spicy and full of tension novella! I enjoyed watching the character development happen over a short period of time between Candy and Noel. My biggest complaint is ... I just needed more!

You get:
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Workplace Romance
• Opposites Attract
• Family Drama
• Makes Him A Better Person

I would recommend this one, for anyone who enjoys a spicy novella with great characters!

[Sydney S · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not good. Super disappointed because I loved two other books by this author. This one was just so cliché and ridiculous, has mediocre main characters, was way too fast paced, isn't believable at all, and the romance was meh.

It's a Valentine's Day short story that follows the sibling of a character from the author's Christmas short story I read in December. I was really looking forward to this, but unfortunately I think 2 stars is generous.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is part of the Fourteen Shades of Red limited Valentine’s series.

I am a sucker for a grumpy/sunshine trope. Throw in office romance and I am sold!!

Loved this. I need more of these characters and hot elevator encounters!!!

[Callie Trainor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noel and Candy are the sweetest couple. This grumpy x sunshine workplace romance novella, set around Valentine’s Day, is the best way to celebrate a day of love!

We all know by now how much I love K.M. Gillis. Just like with her Christmas novella (Wynter and Levi’s story!), there is magic involved. Somehow, in 60 pages, I feel like I’ve read a 300-page novel! The characters are so well developed, the story is well thought out and full, and I just can’t get enough! I am dying to know more about Wynter and Noel’s mom! She sounds like such a blast.

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella is an easy 5/5, with a spice rating of 3/5🌶️. It's a delicious slow burn, workplace romance with a (seemingly) uptight, but protective MMC and a curvy FMC who can hold her own. There's a touch of forced proximity as they get stuck together in the company elevator. It's a very well put together short story, I loved the plot and storytelling. Perfect fit for a valentine's day read.

[Nicole Scarborough · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick read but a good one. Noel and Candy were perfect and I'd love to see more of them. The chemistry was great and it was well written

[Nicole H. ✨️nicoledreamsofbooks✨️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶

This is a fourteen shades of red novella -a limited Valentine's series.

Absolutely loooved this grumpy x sunshine smutty workplace novella!! I also loved that this was Noel, Wyn's brother from Since There's No Place To Go novella.

[Farah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grumpy Noel meets Sunshine Candy in this office romance that sees the two work together to boost office morale. Add in some laughs, a steamy elevator moment and sweetness galore and you have yourself the making of a love story all wrapped up in 54 pages. Such a perfect quick read. Highly recommend!

[Kath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute office romance novella and it had me giggling with Candace. I liked how the insta-lust didn't bother me that much and I'm def fine with the elevator scene, if you get what I mean hehe. I don't mind reading more of Candace and Noel too!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Minnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐|3🌶|2🥵
⁣
I got an ARC copy of this book to write an honest review.
⁣
⁣
This is a cute but also spicy short novella. But it's also very funny 🤣 I just say "Vixen The Valentine’s Slayer"
⁣
It's part of the "Fourteen Shades of Red" series of 14 authors. They aren't interconnected as much as I know, but I've only read this one 😎 But I know it's interconnected with K's Christmas novella "Since There's No Place To Go" because Noel is Wyn's brother. It's not necessary to have read the Christmas novella to understand this book, but it's also a cute spicy story, so I recommend it to you 😁
⁣
I hope that now, that Wyn and Noel have their stories, that Holly, their sister, will get hers too 🤩 Eastern? Halloween? I don't know, but I hope soon 😁

[readbyyes · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
🌶️

So far out of all the novellas I have read from the Fourteen Shades of Red this one is my favorite .

Love grumpy/sunshine & office romance 🥰

It was less spicy but the elevator scene was hot 🥵

Also curvy FMC count me in

“You shouldn’t stop eating something you enjoy because of what someone else thinks. There is not a goddamn thing wrong with your body and anyone who’s ever made you feel otherwise is a fucking idiot. So eat the damn cookies.”

Gotta love Noel for this !!!


Thank you KM Gillis & Happily booked PR for providing me with a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.

[jenniferlea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noel & Candy

This is definitely a grumpy/sunshine novella…Noel starts out the story with road rage….so grumpy….
While Candy is most definitely sunshine…any reason to put up decorations & party

With a little divine intervention it doesn’t take long for Candy to break through Noel’s grumpy shell

This was a cute novella…Candy made me giggle quite a bit…it takes a bit to get to the spicy parts but hey even Steven Tyler talked about love on an elevator

If you are looking for a quick valentines themed read give it a go…I had it read in under an hour but there’s a lot packed into that hour

[Alexa Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.M. Gillis has done it again, another perfect little novella. If you’re in a reading slump, looking for a perfect addition to your valentine’s TBR, or just simply love cute, quick (but not overly unrealistic), grumpy/sunshine, office romances. This is the novella for you!
Thank you to the author for sending me this ARC.
*Review and ratings are 100% my own and honest opinions*

[Megneto♓️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short spicy office romance. I loved reading this! Spice level was 2 🌶 but for this I think it was perfect!

The connection between Noel and Candy was brilliant and I could feel the tension!

Would 100% recommend!

Thank you to both K.M. Gills and Happily Booked PR for allowing me to read this Novella. Even those I receieved this as an ARC, this review is of my own and left voluntarily

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

This was super fun and sweet, with the perfect amount of spice for this novella!!

Noel and Candy were the sweetest grumpy X sunshine, workplace couple, and that elevator scene my goodness 🥵😍 I love everything K.M. Writes, and it’s in a Canadian setting which is always more exciting!! This was a perfect, quick Valentine’s Day read! It just put me in such a happy mood 😍

[Ashley Rabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was good

[Linda Dominick · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review for Hearts and Glowers: A Grumpy/Sunshine Office Romcom
By K.M. Gillis
Pub date: January 29, 2024
This sweet and spicy novella is part of the "Fourteen Shades of Red" series, this is a standalone rom com.
When grumpy Noel meets the new office account manager, Candy he can't deny his attraction. He's used to working with older people and Candy is probably around his age and has the bluest eyes and honey blonde hair. Although she is a ray of sunshine in this office, she is trying to boost office morale by having things like a Valentines party. And he can't get behind that.
The several times they bump into each other in the office, is one blunder after another and she thinks he's very rude, yet very hot. The chemistry turns to spice when Noel takes matter in his own hands.
I love a curvy FMC and Candy is not only proud of her curves but loves to indulge in cookies and pancakes. I can't help but like her. She is strong yet sweet and is everything Noel needs in his life. He is so uptight and loves routine and to be left alone. But when someone in the office makes mean comments about Candy's plans to shake things up in the office, Noel is the first one to stand up for her. Maybe he's a cinnamon roll in the making.
If you are in the mood for a short spicy romcom with office romance vibes check out Hearts and Glowers.

[Gina Blades · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute and quick read

3.5 ⭐️

This was cute! It was a quick read (only 55 pages) but a perfect fun book in between reading longer romance books that have tension, angst, and heartbreak. This definitely was instalove since it was so short but the spice was good. 😊

[Lark _thebookchamber · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect novella for Valentine’s Day! Grumpy X Sunshine, workplace romance, curvy FMC and a man who isn’t afraid to let her know she’s beautiful the way she is? With the perfect amount of spice? Yes please! Sign me up!! I loved it and now need to read the rest in this series! 😍

[Alexa Smith-Surrett · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a shirt, spicy and captivating Novella! Another great book in the 14 Shades of Red series.

[Natalie Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hearts and Glowers" by K.M. Gillis, delivers a refreshing tale of opposites colliding in the corporate battleground. The story revolves around Noel, a dedicated workaholic with dreams of becoming the youngest partner in his accounting firm, and Candy, the determined newcomer looking to make her mark in a new city and company.

Noel's disdain for those he perceives as wasting company time and resources sets the stage for an unexpected encounter with Candy. As a character, Noel is portrayed as a driven individual with a no-nonsense attitude. However, his world takes an unforeseen turn when he crosses paths with Candy, who seems to possess the uncanny ability to get under his skin from day one.

Candy, on the other hand, is portrayed as a resilient and ambitious individual, eager to prove herself not only to her family but also to her new boss and colleagues. Her determination to thrive in a new environment provides a compelling contrast to Noel's more pragmatic approach to work and life.

The turning point in their dynamic occurs when they find themselves trapped in an elevator. This unexpected twist forces Noel and Candy to confront each other beyond the confines of their professional roles, leading to a series of moments that challenge their preconceived notions about one another. As the elevator becomes both a physical and metaphorical space for connection, the question arises: will opposites truly attract?

K.M. Gillis masterfully weaves a narrative that combines humor, tension, and genuine emotion. The novella explores the complexities of human connection and the unexpected ways in which two seemingly incompatible individuals can find common ground. The author skillfully develops the chemistry between Noel and Candy, creating a believable and engaging romantic storyline.

The pacing of "Hearts and Glowers" keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The author's ability to balance the characters' professional lives with their personal journey adds depth to the narrative. The novella not only entertains but also offers a thoughtful exploration of personal growth, understanding, and the transformative power of unexpected connections.

In conclusion, "Hearts and Glowers" is a delightful addition to the Fourteen Shades of Red novella collection. K.M. Gillis has crafted a story that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of a workplace romance, delivering a tale that is heartwarming, entertaining, and thought-provoking. This novella is a must-read for those who appreciate a well-crafted romantic story with a touch of humor and a lot of steam.

[Brittney Mack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Rating: 4/5
Spicy Rating: 2/5
Genre: Romance
Tropes: workplace/office romance, grumpy MMC/sunshine FMC

Main Characters: Noel & Candace (Candy)


Candance is a new hire in Noel’s accounting firm. She is basically in charge of workplace morale and is in charge of the staff wellness committee.
Noel is very dedicated to his accounting job and wants to make junior partner by the time he is 30 (well, before he is 30). He is super grumpy and I am surprised he even really knows how to smile.

Candance (I keep calling her that because even though she goes by ‘Candy’, Noel refuses to call her that…Mr. Grumpy) and Noel keep finding themselves in awkward office situations. She spills spoiled coffee on him, accidentally touches (and keeps touching) his chest, etc. etc.

Noel’s boss asks him to be a part of Candance’s workplace committee with another person at work (so there is only 3 of them). Candace has some great ideas about brining the staff together (even Noel can admit some of them are good) BUT the other girl keeps making fun of Candance and saying things to her about her weight and how she should lay off the cookies and sweets. This is the point where Noel breaks the crack in his grumpiness (finally, I honestly thought it would NEVER happen). Noel goes and buys Candace some sweets from her favorite bakery because he thinks her body is perfect and no one should tell her what to eat and/or how to look…and he definitely tells her as much.

I can’t reveal any more information and/or plot without giving away some MAJOR spoilers (BUT I do want to tell you there is an elevator scene) AND you guys will have to read to find out if they end up together or not.

This was a cute workplace romance and you can definitely read it in one day or one sitting. It can be found in the Fourteen Shades of Red Romance Collection!

[Charlene Alana Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noel is Mr grumpy on his way to the office moaning about everything and anything. When he gets to his office he thinks something is different and when he puts his finger on it he realises it's valentine's hearts on everyone's office doors. He thinks what in the world is going on. So he asks a co-worker what happened and they tell him candy happened..he's wondering to himself who candy is and says her name out loud. Not expecting a reply but he hears, YES from behind him.

He turns around is rendered speechless with the knockout that's standing Infront off him and her eyes he's amazed by them. She's also taken aback when she finally sees him , he's so handsome. They get to chatting about the hearts and Noel thinks it's childish and candy thinks he's rude. They both leave and go back to their offices. Sometime passes and candy is hanging up the rest off the valentine's decorations when she takes a funny turn and nearly passes out, but Noel is there to save her. Her very own knight in shining armour.

He insists she go get something to eat with him and they get on so well. They go back to the office and the elevator breaks down and things get very steamy, they will never look at the elevator the same way again.

This was such a wonderful story, grumpy/sunshine office romance, with banter, moodiness, mishaps and passion and more. The character development was wonderful to see. I was glued to the pages and couldn't put it down, It had me laughing. And his shyness at times was sweet. A swoon worthy read. Highly recommend.

[Larue Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diving into the world of 'Hearts and Glowers' by KM Gillis was like stepping into a delightful whirlwind of romance! 📚💕
This novella, part of the Fourteen Shades of Red series, brings together the perfect blend of office romance, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and the classic 'stuck in an elevator' scenario. Talk about a recipe for a heartwarming and spicy story! 🌟

The characters in this novella are so incredibly well-developed and loveable. The chemistry between the grumpy and sunshine characters is just perfect, adding layers of charm to the narrative. The female main character is an absolute gem – sweet, amazing, and someone you can't help but root for from the very beginning.

KM Gillis has woven a tale that captures the essence of love, humor, and unexpected connections. 'Hearts and Glowers' is a delightful journey through the complexities of office relationships, with every page turning into a smile. If you're a fan of swoon-worthy romances with characters that linger in your heart, this novella is a must-read! 💖📖

[BookishRaquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Hearts and Glowers
By: K.M. Gillis

My Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
My Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️

Hearts and Glowers by K.M. Gillis is part of The Fourteen Shades of Red series.

Fourteen Shades of Red includes books by:
→Maia Terry
→Bella Leigh Michaels
→Eliza Anne
→Dani Elias
→Amanda Bentley
→Elliot Ason
→Luna Knight
→Kelsey Woods
→K.M. Gillis
→Effie Campbell
→Valerie Pepper
→J.L. Quick
→Irene Bahrd
→Lexi Gray

What you’ll find:
❤️Grumpy/Sunshine
❤️Workplace Romance
❤️Opposites Attract

My Thoughts:
This was cute, short, and spicy! Noel is a broody, grumpy junior accountant. Candy is pure sunshine and has been tasked with boosting office morale. A couple of small unfortunate events cause Noel to pay more attention to Candy and instantly want her. Opposites truly do attract as Candy tries to get Noel more involved in the office. This novella is easy to read and incorporates humor, love, and a connection that leaps off the pages.

Thank you K.M. Gillis and Happily Booked PR for allowing me to read an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Yaasmiyn Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Noel and Candy Cane

Such a cute quick read. I love K.M. Gillis' writing. It's always such an easy flow, and the characters are captured within every sentence. It's easy to envision the story, the scenario, and what is happening.

That being said, this story starts off with your typical grumpy and sunshine duo. Noel is Mr. Grumpy-pants, and Candy AKA Candace is a new employee coming into the office trying to bring some sunshine into the group of mundane accountants. The two of them don't hit it off so well, but they have the obvious instant attraction to each other. While they try to deny it, they soon find themselves drawn to each other and things take place. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say there's an elevator that stops working, and some clothing that gets tossed around.

If you're looking for a quick read, with some spice, this is it. And it's part of a collection of novellas, The Fourteen Shades of Red, so check them out.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an office romance with the definition of grumpy/sunshine!! I only wish it was longer because I’d love to learn more about these two.

Noel hates the holidays, especially Valentines. In fact the whole of February is his worst month ever. All he wants is to work through the busiest time of year for accountants, and make junior partner. Enter Candy - the definition of sunshine. A woman who wants to foster more community spirit at work, push for a better workplace environment. Starting with valentines decorations. These two had some fab banter and the tension between them (especially in the elevator!) was amazing! I loved that whilst Noel was so antagonistic and rude about the decorations, he still had Candy’s back.

I love this book and I hope to see the characters again!!!! Definitely worth a Valentines read!

One, Noel is the most beautiful man I've ever seen. Two, I’ve never been more physically attracted to anyone before. And three? I’m definitely going to need a new job.

[Laura Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded to 5!

Have you ever come across a grump that was so grumpy, the only option is to just love them? Does that even make sense? Because that's how I feel about Noel Vixen. 😂 He's so witty, and his banter with sweet and bubbly, Candy, had me laughing so much! I was smiling almost the entire time I read this. I loved it!

Ugh, and let's not forget the way he stood up for her when another coworker had some not so subtle/not so nice things to say in regards to Candy's appearance. Swoon. 💕

Hearts and Glowers was short, sweet (and a little spicy 😉), and to the point. This was my first novella from this author, and I look forward to reading more!

Read if you love:
❤️ Grumpy x sunshine
❤️ Workplace romance
❤️ "F*ck it!"
❤️ Curvy FMC
❤️ Dual POV
❤️ Valentine's Day
❤️ Insta-lust

Hearts and Glowers is 1 of 14 novellas in the limited edition Fourteen Shades of Red - Valentine’s Day romance collection.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hearts and Glowers by KM Gillis is an enchanting Valentine's Day read that effortlessly weaves sweetness and charm into a delightful narrative. Noel, a man who hates February, finds his world brightened by Candy, the vivacious new Account Manager who injects life into the office with nostalgic decorations and espresso machines.
KM Gillis, a favorite author of mine, delivers yet another perfect contemporary romance in this tale. Her storytelling is a harmonious blend of playful banter, endearing characters, and just the right amount of spice.
Hearts and Glowers shines within the Fourteen Shades of Red series, standing out as a must-read. Gillis's narrative captures the essence of budding romance, creating a palpable chemistry between Noel and Candy that keeps readers eagerly flipping pages.

* Grumpy/Sunshine
* Workplace Romance
* Coworkers To Lovers
* Broken Down Elevator
* RomCom
* Opposites Attract
* Dual POV
* Novella