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Bossy Glenhaven Billionaires #2
The Grumpy One
Cleaning floors in Branson Couture was never part of my career plans.
Neither was almost decapitating the CEO with a mop.
Of course, I didn’t know he was the CEO—my mind only registered “intruder” and “hot”.
Maybe not in that order.
Meet James Branson: infuriatingly hot, obscenely wealthy, and as charming as a door slammed in your face.
He’s the king of high fashion. And, apparently, of ruining my day.
The thing is, he wants to do more than just ruin my day.
In my hasty retreat from the mop-attack I left my design journal behind.
James discovers my designs and offers me truly insane money to work beside him.
Every cell in my body is screaming: “Run, girl!”
James is a master of the boardroom with a heart encased in steel.
This Snarlmaster General has a scowl that could out-thunder a hurricane.
He also holds the key to my dreams in his giant mitts.
But I can’t think about his giant… anything.
In the fashion world, it’s not just designs that get ripped apart at the seams.
Hearts do as well.
But if James thinks I’ll let him unravel mine, he's in for the fight of his billionaire life.
So I have a plan:
Show up.
Do my job.
Don’t think about my boss naked.
Piece of cake, right?
Neither was almost decapitating the CEO with a mop.
Of course, I didn’t know he was the CEO—my mind only registered “intruder” and “hot”.
Maybe not in that order.
Meet James Branson: infuriatingly hot, obscenely wealthy, and as charming as a door slammed in your face.
He’s the king of high fashion. And, apparently, of ruining my day.
The thing is, he wants to do more than just ruin my day.
In my hasty retreat from the mop-attack I left my design journal behind.
James discovers my designs and offers me truly insane money to work beside him.
Every cell in my body is screaming: “Run, girl!”
James is a master of the boardroom with a heart encased in steel.
This Snarlmaster General has a scowl that could out-thunder a hurricane.
He also holds the key to my dreams in his giant mitts.
But I can’t think about his giant… anything.
In the fashion world, it’s not just designs that get ripped apart at the seams.
Hearts do as well.
But if James thinks I’ll let him unravel mine, he's in for the fight of his billionaire life.
So I have a plan:
Show up.
Do my job.
Don’t think about my boss naked.
Piece of cake, right?
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2024
482 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Leslie North
652 books1,511 followersNew to Leslie? Readers suggest starting with 'The Bossy One' (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BP3BBF) —Imagine a sunny Minnesotan Mary Poppins, employed by a grumpy Irish billionaire. The story is a blend of humor, revenge, passion, heartbreak, hope, and witty banter. As one reader put it, ‘This story had me squealing at the romantic moments and silly moments.’
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
I'm Social Too:
Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leslienorthbooks
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
Instagram:www.instagram.com/leslienorth_books
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
I'm Social Too:
Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leslienorthbooks
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
Instagram:www.instagram.com/leslienorth_books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
February 21, 2024
2.5 stars due to the annoying start to the heroine. Natalie works as a cleaner for a big fashion company while she's in college. James Branson is the CEO of the company and is a total workaholic. They meet when James works late and comes through the area Natalie is cleaning while loudly listening to Beyonce. She comes off as an idiot to me. Listening to music so loud she can't hear what's going on around her, assaulting a man dressed in a Burberry suit she swears is stalking her even though it's the first time they've met, and not knowing said man is her boss's boss's boss. How do you not know who your CEO is of the company you work for? I live in Arkansas. If I get a job at Walmart, I'd at least google the Walton family on the off chance they come into my store. I just didn't like her. She was a talented designer which made up for some of her unprofessionalism. James is emotionally stunted and thinks he ALWAYS has to put his work and family before anything else, which leads to the inevitable conflict after he and Natalie strike up a relationship. He does pull off some decent groveling at the end, and Natalie doesn't give into the first attempt when he just throws money around. It's a really great gesture, but fell flat with Natalie. The second attempt was better. There was a bit of other woman drama which was fun. They never did clear up who leaked the dress design though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2024
In "The Grumpy One" by Leslie North, readers are introduced to a hilarious and charming tale of unexpected romance between two unlikely characters: the fiery protagonist and cleaner extraordinaire, and the grumpy yet alluring CEO of Branson Couture.
When an accidental encounter with a mop leads to a near-decapitation of the CEO, sparks fly between the protagonist and James, the infuriatingly hot and obscenely wealthy head of the fashion empire. Despite their initial clash, James discovers the protagonist's hidden talent for design and offers her a lucrative opportunity to work alongside him.
"The Grumpy One" is a delightful romantic comedy filled with witty banter, steamy encounters, and heartwarming moments. Leslie North skillfully blends humor and romance, creating a story that will leave readers laughing, swooning, and eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
With its engaging plot, lovable characters, and sizzling chemistry, "The Grumpy One" is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance looking for a fun and uplifting escape. North's sharp writing style and clever dialogue make this novel an enjoyable and entertaining read from start to finish.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When an accidental encounter with a mop leads to a near-decapitation of the CEO, sparks fly between the protagonist and James, the infuriatingly hot and obscenely wealthy head of the fashion empire. Despite their initial clash, James discovers the protagonist's hidden talent for design and offers her a lucrative opportunity to work alongside him.
"The Grumpy One" is a delightful romantic comedy filled with witty banter, steamy encounters, and heartwarming moments. Leslie North skillfully blends humor and romance, creating a story that will leave readers laughing, swooning, and eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
With its engaging plot, lovable characters, and sizzling chemistry, "The Grumpy One" is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance looking for a fun and uplifting escape. North's sharp writing style and clever dialogue make this novel an enjoyable and entertaining read from start to finish.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2024
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really wish I could rate this book higher than I did. It's one of those easy read, boss/ceo romances, but there were certain things I could not get past.
Brief summary - Natalie works retail for the Branson company, and one night while working late, James Branson, heir to the company and current CEO - unbeknownst to Natalie-, comes to the store to tell her to turn her loud music down. After what is a funny and unique meet-cute that involves the throwing of a mop, Natalie leaves the store and her sketch book behind. Instead of firing her, James sees Nat's potential and brings her on as a designer to help Branson. It's a pretty standard romance from there. However!
Natalie, while working this full time job is also going to fashion school. And at this school she has a creepy touchy-feely professor, MG, that hits on her and makes her uncomfortable. The way that the characters (and really the author) go about resolving this makes light of the situation and doesn't take acts like this seriously. MG is high power in the fashion industry, which is why Natalie and other women don't want to go to the heads of the school with information that he's harassing her. Understandable. This would be an awful position to be put in and why MG abuses it so. He thinks he's untouchable.
When he texts her privately asking her out, as a joke, Natalie and her roommate go to send a very explicit text back to the professor about how her "boyfriend" is taking care of her. (This text is the catalyst of the whole story as the roommate accidentally sends it to James.) But this doesn't make sense to me, because if Natalie is so afraid to piss this professor off in fear of retaliation, why would she send this text that could also get her in trouble?
But if I need to suspend my disbelief because the author needs to use this as an excuse for James to play fake boyfriend, fine, I'll push past.
But jumping to the end, the professor never stops being creepy! The "resolution" is Natalie's roommate sending the professor's creepy messages to a class-wide group chat. Other girls come forward with their own messages, and instead of banding together to go to the people above this guy or the powers at school, they submit the evidence TO A BUZZFEED ARTICLE. BUZZFEED. When I read that, I was like - you have to be joking. In 2024? I'm sorry, but you might as well have said it got posted the school's MySpace page. Or for a more current reference, "we made a TikTok about the guy who is harassing you!" The sheer amount of insensitivity in the entire B-Plot storyline of being harassed was insane. To have sexual harassment be such a plot point in your story, only to conclude it to say "oh no actual consequences came but we now have a buzzfeed article, exposing a sensitive situation you were in without telling you about it," is so glib and frankly disgusting. I cannot believe I finished this.
There were other things that annoyed me about James, like the way he treated Natalie and ran his business, but I could've looked past that, given the book 3 stars, a basic nice review and been on my way. But I won't pretend like this book wasn't insensitive to the topics it uses for shock value. I, like most people, read romance to escape. If even in my story the bad guy gets away with a slap on the wrist from a BUZZFEED ARTICLE (yes I am still hung up on that), then it's not worth reading.
I really wish I could rate this book higher than I did. It's one of those easy read, boss/ceo romances, but there were certain things I could not get past.
Brief summary - Natalie works retail for the Branson company, and one night while working late, James Branson, heir to the company and current CEO - unbeknownst to Natalie-, comes to the store to tell her to turn her loud music down. After what is a funny and unique meet-cute that involves the throwing of a mop, Natalie leaves the store and her sketch book behind. Instead of firing her, James sees Nat's potential and brings her on as a designer to help Branson. It's a pretty standard romance from there. However!
Natalie, while working this full time job is also going to fashion school. And at this school she has a creepy touchy-feely professor, MG, that hits on her and makes her uncomfortable. The way that the characters (and really the author) go about resolving this makes light of the situation and doesn't take acts like this seriously. MG is high power in the fashion industry, which is why Natalie and other women don't want to go to the heads of the school with information that he's harassing her. Understandable. This would be an awful position to be put in and why MG abuses it so. He thinks he's untouchable.
When he texts her privately asking her out, as a joke, Natalie and her roommate go to send a very explicit text back to the professor about how her "boyfriend" is taking care of her. (This text is the catalyst of the whole story as the roommate accidentally sends it to James.) But this doesn't make sense to me, because if Natalie is so afraid to piss this professor off in fear of retaliation, why would she send this text that could also get her in trouble?
But if I need to suspend my disbelief because the author needs to use this as an excuse for James to play fake boyfriend, fine, I'll push past.
But jumping to the end, the professor never stops being creepy! The "resolution" is Natalie's roommate sending the professor's creepy messages to a class-wide group chat. Other girls come forward with their own messages, and instead of banding together to go to the people above this guy or the powers at school, they submit the evidence TO A BUZZFEED ARTICLE. BUZZFEED. When I read that, I was like - you have to be joking. In 2024? I'm sorry, but you might as well have said it got posted the school's MySpace page. Or for a more current reference, "we made a TikTok about the guy who is harassing you!" The sheer amount of insensitivity in the entire B-Plot storyline of being harassed was insane. To have sexual harassment be such a plot point in your story, only to conclude it to say "oh no actual consequences came but we now have a buzzfeed article, exposing a sensitive situation you were in without telling you about it," is so glib and frankly disgusting. I cannot believe I finished this.
There were other things that annoyed me about James, like the way he treated Natalie and ran his business, but I could've looked past that, given the book 3 stars, a basic nice review and been on my way. But I won't pretend like this book wasn't insensitive to the topics it uses for shock value. I, like most people, read romance to escape. If even in my story the bad guy gets away with a slap on the wrist from a BUZZFEED ARTICLE (yes I am still hung up on that), then it's not worth reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2024
James Branson is a billionaire and the CEO of their family company and his world is rocked when he runs into a woman whose first encounter has her hitting him with a wet mop!! After embarrassingly discovering that she just attacked the CEO of the company she works for, Natalie’s world is also changed as he offers her a promotion on the design team the following morning.
The banter between these two is absolutely perfect and I laughed out loud for some of the sass that came out of Natalie’s mouth! The slow burn of their relationship is absolutely perfect and then we see a glorious glimpse of some fake dating (a trope I ride or die for)!! Don’t get me wrong on how much I love the spice between these two, but the sweeter moments between them also had my heart aching.
I’d definitely recommend this for a quick and enjoyable romance with some spice and a HEA!
Thank you to Netgalley, Leslie North, and Relay Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
The banter between these two is absolutely perfect and I laughed out loud for some of the sass that came out of Natalie’s mouth! The slow burn of their relationship is absolutely perfect and then we see a glorious glimpse of some fake dating (a trope I ride or die for)!! Don’t get me wrong on how much I love the spice between these two, but the sweeter moments between them also had my heart aching.
I’d definitely recommend this for a quick and enjoyable romance with some spice and a HEA!
Thank you to Netgalley, Leslie North, and Relay Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 27, 2024
"How could I not? You were waving your arms around like you wanted me to see how perfect you looked."
The Grumpy One by Leslie North is a cute little contemporary romance book. I will say I'm not the biggest fan of the beginning, the fmc comes off badly and just isn't really likeable for the first bit of the book. Like how does Natalie assume someone in a perfectly fitted suit is stalking her? Then after that hitting him with the mop? It just didn't make the most sense. After that, Natalie started growing on me a bit and I enjoyed her character. James is a sexy man, but a bit frustrating at times but overall okay. Would I read it again? Maybe.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Grumpy One by Leslie North is a cute little contemporary romance book. I will say I'm not the biggest fan of the beginning, the fmc comes off badly and just isn't really likeable for the first bit of the book. Like how does Natalie assume someone in a perfectly fitted suit is stalking her? Then after that hitting him with the mop? It just didn't make the most sense. After that, Natalie started growing on me a bit and I enjoyed her character. James is a sexy man, but a bit frustrating at times but overall okay. Would I read it again? Maybe.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2025
4,5 stars
I cried and I laughed a lot with this book. I’m really happy with this story although some times the decisions of James were inconsistent. But without the conflict there isn’t a book to tell.
I cried and I laughed a lot with this book. I’m really happy with this story although some times the decisions of James were inconsistent. But without the conflict there isn’t a book to tell.
August 23, 2024
The book is a very nice rom-com which balances humor, heart, and a touch of drama. The story revolves around the charming dynamic between Natalie and James. James is a little grumpy at the beginning but it turns out to be a very lovable hero who meets his match in a spirited and determined Natalie.
The book kept me a whole day long on the beach engaged with its blend of romantic tension, misunderstandings, and the eventual resolution. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.
The book kept me a whole day long on the beach engaged with its blend of romantic tension, misunderstandings, and the eventual resolution. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.
February 23, 2024
Surviving broken hearts
North has put together a charming and at times extremely funny office romance. CEO James Branson is working overtime at his company when he encounters a janitorial worker belting out the lyrics to a Beyoncé song…a cringeworthy version. 😩. Natalie Reynolds is completing a shift for a fellow worker at Branson Designs, when she is startled by a stranger - without a badge - omg 😳. The ensuing dialogue after she belts James with a wet mop and accuses him of stalking is hilarious. When she finds out that he’s the CEO of the company, she figures that she’s fired, but he finds her sketchbook of designs. Natalie is working 3 jobs to finance her attendance at a design school. Needless to say that James is impressed with her work and hires her for a design artist.
Readers will definitely fall in love with all the characters in the book and will enjoy the ride as the author whisks us through James’ family and Natalie’s lack of any. We are introduced to James and his brother’s poor history with relationships and the reasons for them both. There are a wealth of office characters with unique personalities. Read how James and Natalie’s fake relationship suffers setbacks until James is enlightened by his brother…and then he presents Natalie with a gift that only she would appreciate.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
North has put together a charming and at times extremely funny office romance. CEO James Branson is working overtime at his company when he encounters a janitorial worker belting out the lyrics to a Beyoncé song…a cringeworthy version. 😩. Natalie Reynolds is completing a shift for a fellow worker at Branson Designs, when she is startled by a stranger - without a badge - omg 😳. The ensuing dialogue after she belts James with a wet mop and accuses him of stalking is hilarious. When she finds out that he’s the CEO of the company, she figures that she’s fired, but he finds her sketchbook of designs. Natalie is working 3 jobs to finance her attendance at a design school. Needless to say that James is impressed with her work and hires her for a design artist.
Readers will definitely fall in love with all the characters in the book and will enjoy the ride as the author whisks us through James’ family and Natalie’s lack of any. We are introduced to James and his brother’s poor history with relationships and the reasons for them both. There are a wealth of office characters with unique personalities. Read how James and Natalie’s fake relationship suffers setbacks until James is enlightened by his brother…and then he presents Natalie with a gift that only she would appreciate.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
February 18, 2024
I started considering I would read only a few pages/chapters but after I started it, I could not put the book down.
James is supposed to be a grumpy boss and we started seeing him in a grumpy mood however, he is not as grumpy as expected.
Natalie on the other hand had a sassiness in her at first which I loved.
The story was good. It was about hardworking character, real-life problems or circumstances, fun and creativity, and a close tight family.
Although there were moments that didn't make too much sense/liked such as the embarrassment with the feet/pedicure after being together or the way they handled the situation with the professor in general the book was good and I enjoyed reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
James is supposed to be a grumpy boss and we started seeing him in a grumpy mood however, he is not as grumpy as expected.
Natalie on the other hand had a sassiness in her at first which I loved.
The story was good. It was about hardworking character, real-life problems or circumstances, fun and creativity, and a close tight family.
Although there were moments that didn't make too much sense/liked such as the embarrassment with the feet/pedicure after being together or the way they handled the situation with the professor in general the book was good and I enjoyed reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
Part of the Bossy Glenhaven Billionaires series each one can be read as a standalone with an overprotective sexy and the one who captures his undivided attention. Natalie is sweet but no damsel feisty as all get out cleans floors at the Branson Couture working her way through college to earn a fashion degree, one evening she thinks it is an intruder so of course she protects herself with the only weapon she has a mop until she realizes he is the CEO and running away leaving her precious designs in her rush so expecting to be fired considering she beat the CEO with a mop. James sexy as all get out CEO of Branson Couture, he is grumpy on a good day due to the demanding job, most don’t see the stress that comes with his job jus the money and making time for himself isn’t easy in fact choosing him over the job is something he has never done. But the moment the little spitfire of a women attacks him with a mob has him rethinking things, add to that the amazing design she came up with but the more he is around her the grumpier he becomes neither of them can deny the magnetic pull between them but the more professional the stronger the pull if he could just see her for more than a fake girlfriend but can he or will he see what’s right in front of him too late, can he find a way to have the women that makes him happy as well as the job, family, and can he allow her to show him how to destress finding happiness along the way?
February 22, 2024
James Branson is a billionaire and the CEO of their family company and his world is rocked when he runs into a woman whose first encounter has her hitting him with a wet mop!! After embarrassingly discovering that she just attacked the CEO of the company she works for, Natalie’s world is also changed as he offers her a promotion on the design team the following morning.
The banter between these two is absolutely perfect and I laughed out loud for some of the sass that came out of Natalie’s mouth! The slow burn of their relationship is absolutely perfect and then we see a glorious glimpse of some fake dating (a trope I ride or die for)!! Don’t get me wrong on how much I love the spice between these two, but the sweeter moments between them also had my heart aching.
I’d definitely recommend this for a quick and enjoyable romance with some spice and a HEA!
Thank you to Netgalley, Leslie North, and Relay Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
The banter between these two is absolutely perfect and I laughed out loud for some of the sass that came out of Natalie’s mouth! The slow burn of their relationship is absolutely perfect and then we see a glorious glimpse of some fake dating (a trope I ride or die for)!! Don’t get me wrong on how much I love the spice between these two, but the sweeter moments between them also had my heart aching.
I’d definitely recommend this for a quick and enjoyable romance with some spice and a HEA!
Thank you to Netgalley, Leslie North, and Relay Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 26, 2024
This was a feel good romance! I loved how James and Natalie meet. From there they banter back and forth, but he always is ready to listen to her. The company gets a shake up and that leaves Natalie in a position to shine and really show her creativity. James is more than happy with how things are going and he is ready to make his move. Will things work out between them or will an old relationship destroy it all?
February 18, 2024
Finding the Balance of Her Yin to His Yang -
The first time James and Natalie met didn’t go well, but it left an impression on both of them. However, what they didn’t know at the time was that it was the start of a wild and wonderful journey filled with steamy encounters, personal growth, building long lasting relationships, drama and heartbreak, that will end in a happily ever after.
I was hooked on the story from the beginning until the very last page and I found myself completely invested in the lives of all the characters. James and Natalie brought the story alive with their performance, but the way all the other characters worked together to help each other out, made this a worthwhile reading experience for me. If you are looking for amazing entertainment for a few hours, the I suggest you grab a copy of this awesome book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first time James and Natalie met didn’t go well, but it left an impression on both of them. However, what they didn’t know at the time was that it was the start of a wild and wonderful journey filled with steamy encounters, personal growth, building long lasting relationships, drama and heartbreak, that will end in a happily ever after.
I was hooked on the story from the beginning until the very last page and I found myself completely invested in the lives of all the characters. James and Natalie brought the story alive with their performance, but the way all the other characters worked together to help each other out, made this a worthwhile reading experience for me. If you are looking for amazing entertainment for a few hours, the I suggest you grab a copy of this awesome book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2024
James never expected that an encounter with an employee at night would turn into more. James was working late and suddenly the music was blasting and he went to see where it was coming from. He found a woman singing Beyoncé song badly into a mop. He tried to get her attention but she didn’t hear him. When she noticed him she freaked out and hit him with the wet mop. This encounter changed both of their lives. She didn’t know who he was. She was in fight mode until the security guard told her who the man was. James was annoyed with her. He found a sketch book with drawings that he thought was amazing. It belonged to Natalie. James offered her a job that changed both their lives. Natalie got under his skin. She was not like any other woman he dealt with. He put the company and family above all else. What will he chose to get the life he wants, I hope it’s a book three to this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
Don’t expect to put this book down until you turn the last page!
Leslie hooks you from the start with an over-the-top hysterical meetup if you can call it that between Natalie and James! You want to Gibb-slap James for being a killjoy though in all fairness he was at the wrong end of a mop. But the stage is set that it can only get better from here, or at least you hope! While Natalie seems to be the spark that James’ company needs to get the earnings in the right directions, she also beings unexpected happiness to James and his family. As Natalie takes on more work to keep James’ head above water with work, the lines become fuzzy and a whole lot more steamy between them. When all the best laid plans for their runway show finds James in a difficult spot, what will he do? You will be screaming at James to wake up and smell the roses! Will Natalie be able to let her past go to let James in! You have to read to find out!
Leslie hooks you from the start with an over-the-top hysterical meetup if you can call it that between Natalie and James! You want to Gibb-slap James for being a killjoy though in all fairness he was at the wrong end of a mop. But the stage is set that it can only get better from here, or at least you hope! While Natalie seems to be the spark that James’ company needs to get the earnings in the right directions, she also beings unexpected happiness to James and his family. As Natalie takes on more work to keep James’ head above water with work, the lines become fuzzy and a whole lot more steamy between them. When all the best laid plans for their runway show finds James in a difficult spot, what will he do? You will be screaming at James to wake up and smell the roses! Will Natalie be able to let her past go to let James in! You have to read to find out!
February 17, 2024
Natalie is working in retail to earn enough to finish her college course. James finds her one night cleaning the store, totally unaware that anyone is around. He takes his responsibilities very seriously to the detriment of anything else. Natalie works three jobs and has had an awful childhood but is sunshine and light, something James needs!
This is an amusing story about two completely different people who need each other to balance out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A good read from Leslie
This is an amusing story about two completely different people who need each other to balance out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A good read from Leslie
February 13, 2024
Oh wow. I think this book has made me fall in love with the whole Branson family. James starts out this book as a bit of a high-handed jerk, but through Natalie we get to see his dedication to his family and the family business. And Natalie starts out looking a lot like a hot mess, though we get to learn about the struggles that have brought her to this point in her life. I loved this pair together. They’re complete socio-economic opposites, but their hearts long for so many of the same things. I laughed with them when things were going well, and my heart broke for them when trouble reared its ugly head. I really don’t want to let go of these characters now that the book’s over.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book through Booksprout.
February 22, 2024
She is a cleaner to make ends meet and she attacks him with a mop. She thought he was an intruder and it will set off a chance to have her designs done. How will they get on? What will happen? Follow them to find out
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
February 14, 2024
Natalie is a beautiful designer working behind the counter in a retail store. James is the CEO of said store and he is struggling to keep the store alive. This story was absolutely fantastic. A handsome billionaire. A beautiful designer. Sparks. Lots of Sparks. So good.
February 17, 2024
This is a hot to trot office romance. An accidental and hilarious meeting between Natalie and James sets the stage for a relationship filled with fireworks. Natalie is a design student working three jobs. James is the boss of said jobs. The story has some wonderful characters who will delight and entertain readers. The plot is interesting and will inspire readers to keep turning the pages. As a hero James will redeem himself and win your heart as he does Natalie’s.
February 1, 2024
I laughed, I cried, I loved it…
After Natalie and her boss James meet under less than ideal circumstances, things take a dramatic turn. She’s the vivacious breath of fresh air that’s needed to turn things around. Until the betrayal which is fed by her childhood insecurities brings things to a crashing halt… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
After Natalie and her boss James meet under less than ideal circumstances, things take a dramatic turn. She’s the vivacious breath of fresh air that’s needed to turn things around. Until the betrayal which is fed by her childhood insecurities brings things to a crashing halt… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
March 18, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with a digital ARC of this book for my honest review.
Natalie starts off seeming spoiled and bratty, which makes her hard to like at first. James is all over the place—he's into Natalie one minute and not the next. His behaviors made me want to rattle him around. The other characters don't get much development, so they feel flat. The story's plot is a bit predictable, but I still found it enjoyable. The writing is okay, but forgettable. I finished the book and quickly forgot about it. The ending wasn't satisfying for me either.
Natalie starts off seeming spoiled and bratty, which makes her hard to like at first. James is all over the place—he's into Natalie one minute and not the next. His behaviors made me want to rattle him around. The other characters don't get much development, so they feel flat. The story's plot is a bit predictable, but I still found it enjoyable. The writing is okay, but forgettable. I finished the book and quickly forgot about it. The ending wasn't satisfying for me either.
February 18, 2024
The Grumpy One is second book in the Bossy Glenhaven Billionaires Series. A full-length standalone novel with no cheating or cliffhanger and complete with a happily-ever-after. An engaging storyline with fascinating characters that captures the reader attention and keeps you turning the pages until the end. This is Natalie and James story. An employee-boss romance, workplace romance, forbidden romance, billionaires & millionaires romance, polar opposite attracts story, contemporary romance, with lust-at-first-sight, banter, humor, passion, power and control, resentment, tension, emotions, anger, angst, revelation insecurities, hurt, pain, heartache and love.
James Branson is CEO, and owner of Branson Design. The company has been hemorrhaging money and it's up to James to find where the bleed is coming from and put a stop to it. He was working late one night going over the books, when he heard this horrible singing coming through the speaker that's broke his concentration and interrupting his work. He was already stressed and had a headache. As went to investigate the noise he saw that it was cleaning lady singing Beyonce song woman run the world. Natalie is a talented a aspiring designer with three jobs and in school. She just needs someone to believe in her and to give her break. One of her job is cleaning up store at Branson Design. When a grumpy stranger tab her on shoulder late one night while she was cleaning up the store, she thought that he was a burglar. He wasn't wearing the required identification so she I had to protect herself.
She tries to defend herself with the dirty mop not knowing that she was talking to her boss. He told her turn down the music so that he could get some work done and all she did was to sass him. As he tried to leave she accosted with dirty mop and hit him in the back, to further exacerbate things she snack him in head and could've broken his nose, then alerted security to toss him on the street. However, she was in for a rude awaken when security arrive and she finally shut up so that James could talk and let her know who he was. She was flabbergasted when she realized that she had just assaulted the man who signs her pay checks. However, because of her caustic mouth she didn't know when to stop and continues to dig herself further in a hole so he let go. She was devastated and really could not afford to lose none of her three jobs. But after talking to her roommate and since he didn't actually told her that she was fired she decided to go back to work early the next morning to finish cleaning the store only to find out that her keycard no longer works.
James showed up and she tear into him and let him know how much she despises him. But when he showed her, her journal with her sketches that she had left behind she got quiet. He told her that she talented and he apologized for saying she wasn't and offered to purchase her sketches because he was thinking of taking the company in a different direction and her designs can help with vision. But she didn't want to sell she wanted a position in the company, so he agreed to something in design under one condition, as long as she never sing around him ever again. James brother Christopher is the head of Creative Department, but since his marriage is dissolved all he does is lay in bed like a shell of a man. James decides to put Natalie over that department so she can use her designs to help jump-start his vision for company. James is a handsome, successful, stoic, grumpy billionaire. Natalie is a sassy, talented, intelligent, and beautiful young woman. They challenge and get under each other skin. James and Natalie dance around their attraction until they succumb to their attraction. However, his ex-girlfriend is back to wreak havoc. Natalie soon realized that she was better off where she was because at least she was still able to create her designs. They're so many emotions and things going on in this story that you can't help but feel for the characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
James Branson is CEO, and owner of Branson Design. The company has been hemorrhaging money and it's up to James to find where the bleed is coming from and put a stop to it. He was working late one night going over the books, when he heard this horrible singing coming through the speaker that's broke his concentration and interrupting his work. He was already stressed and had a headache. As went to investigate the noise he saw that it was cleaning lady singing Beyonce song woman run the world. Natalie is a talented a aspiring designer with three jobs and in school. She just needs someone to believe in her and to give her break. One of her job is cleaning up store at Branson Design. When a grumpy stranger tab her on shoulder late one night while she was cleaning up the store, she thought that he was a burglar. He wasn't wearing the required identification so she I had to protect herself.
She tries to defend herself with the dirty mop not knowing that she was talking to her boss. He told her turn down the music so that he could get some work done and all she did was to sass him. As he tried to leave she accosted with dirty mop and hit him in the back, to further exacerbate things she snack him in head and could've broken his nose, then alerted security to toss him on the street. However, she was in for a rude awaken when security arrive and she finally shut up so that James could talk and let her know who he was. She was flabbergasted when she realized that she had just assaulted the man who signs her pay checks. However, because of her caustic mouth she didn't know when to stop and continues to dig herself further in a hole so he let go. She was devastated and really could not afford to lose none of her three jobs. But after talking to her roommate and since he didn't actually told her that she was fired she decided to go back to work early the next morning to finish cleaning the store only to find out that her keycard no longer works.
James showed up and she tear into him and let him know how much she despises him. But when he showed her, her journal with her sketches that she had left behind she got quiet. He told her that she talented and he apologized for saying she wasn't and offered to purchase her sketches because he was thinking of taking the company in a different direction and her designs can help with vision. But she didn't want to sell she wanted a position in the company, so he agreed to something in design under one condition, as long as she never sing around him ever again. James brother Christopher is the head of Creative Department, but since his marriage is dissolved all he does is lay in bed like a shell of a man. James decides to put Natalie over that department so she can use her designs to help jump-start his vision for company. James is a handsome, successful, stoic, grumpy billionaire. Natalie is a sassy, talented, intelligent, and beautiful young woman. They challenge and get under each other skin. James and Natalie dance around their attraction until they succumb to their attraction. However, his ex-girlfriend is back to wreak havoc. Natalie soon realized that she was better off where she was because at least she was still able to create her designs. They're so many emotions and things going on in this story that you can't help but feel for the characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2024
Das Cover des Buches "Der Mürrische" von Leslie North zeigt einen attraktiven jungen Mann (vermutlich den Protagonisten James Branson)der einem schon gleich Lust aufs Lesen macht.
Das Buch selbst ist in einfacher Sprache gut verständlich geschrieben und lässt den Leser schnell in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Durch die Erzählung aus den wechselnden Perspektiven von Natalie und James können wir tiefe Einblicke in deren Gedanken und Gefühle erlangen und so deren Handlungen verstehen und nachempfinden. Auch Bernie, Steph und Christopher sind wundervolle Charaktere dieses Buches, die der Geschichte noch mehr Tiefe geben!
Die Story handelt von Natalie, einer jungen Studentin die in Pflegefamilien aufwuchs und sich nie gewollt fühlte und die sich ihr Studium und ihr Leben durch mehrere kleine Jobs finanziert. Als sie eines Abends ihren Boss (den sie nicht kannte) mit dem Wischmopp attackierte, er sie nach Hause schickte und sie ihr Notizbuch mit all ihren Skizzen und persönlichen Einträgen liegen ließ, war sie der Verzweiflung nah. Als sie am nächsten Morgen nicht in die Firma kam, vermutet sie, dass ihr Bosshole sie rausgeschmissen hat. Doch nachdem er plötzlich neben ihr stand und sie ihre Hasstiraden abgesetzt hatte, wedelte er mit Ihrem Notizbuch und bot ihr an eines ihrer Design zu kaufen. Nach langem hin und her konnte Natalie ihr Notizbuch zurückbekommen und ging mit einem neuen Job als Designerin ans Werk. Doch ihr direkter Vorgesetzter Clint war von der Einstellung nicht begeistert und machte ihr das Leben schwer... Erst als Natalie sich über ihn beschwerte und James die anderen Kollegen über Clint ausfragte, ähnliches zu hören bekam und diesen feuerte, wurde die Kreativabteilung wieder lebendig und produktiv. Je mehr James und Natalie zusammen zu tun hatten umso stärker wurde ihr Verlangen nacheinander, so dass sie bald eine Liaison eingingen, die heißer und prickelnder nicht hätte sein können. Doch als James das wohl seiner Firma über die Liebe zu Natalie stellte, brach für Natalie eine Welt zusammen , die so schnell nicht wieder heil gemacht werden kann....
Auch dieses Buch von Leslie North ist wieder echt lesens- und empfehlenswert!
Die bekannte eingängige Schreibweise, die tolle Geschichte gepaart mit authentischen Protagonisten und deren überspringenden Emotionen lassen uns mitten ins Geschehen eintauchen und schenken uns schöne (Herzschmerz)Lesemomente.
Das Mitfiebern und Hoffen auf ein Happy End sowie das prickelnde Erleben ihrer heißen intimen Momente runden dieses Werk ab!
Durch die präzise Beschreibung der einzelnen Situationen entstehen lebhafte Bilder im Kopf, die die Geschichte quasi wie ein Film an einem vorbeiziehen lässt. Wirklich grandios! Man fliegt geradezu durch die Seiten und möchte das Buch bestenfalls in einem Rutsch durchlesen!
Das Buch selbst ist in einfacher Sprache gut verständlich geschrieben und lässt den Leser schnell in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Durch die Erzählung aus den wechselnden Perspektiven von Natalie und James können wir tiefe Einblicke in deren Gedanken und Gefühle erlangen und so deren Handlungen verstehen und nachempfinden. Auch Bernie, Steph und Christopher sind wundervolle Charaktere dieses Buches, die der Geschichte noch mehr Tiefe geben!
Die Story handelt von Natalie, einer jungen Studentin die in Pflegefamilien aufwuchs und sich nie gewollt fühlte und die sich ihr Studium und ihr Leben durch mehrere kleine Jobs finanziert. Als sie eines Abends ihren Boss (den sie nicht kannte) mit dem Wischmopp attackierte, er sie nach Hause schickte und sie ihr Notizbuch mit all ihren Skizzen und persönlichen Einträgen liegen ließ, war sie der Verzweiflung nah. Als sie am nächsten Morgen nicht in die Firma kam, vermutet sie, dass ihr Bosshole sie rausgeschmissen hat. Doch nachdem er plötzlich neben ihr stand und sie ihre Hasstiraden abgesetzt hatte, wedelte er mit Ihrem Notizbuch und bot ihr an eines ihrer Design zu kaufen. Nach langem hin und her konnte Natalie ihr Notizbuch zurückbekommen und ging mit einem neuen Job als Designerin ans Werk. Doch ihr direkter Vorgesetzter Clint war von der Einstellung nicht begeistert und machte ihr das Leben schwer... Erst als Natalie sich über ihn beschwerte und James die anderen Kollegen über Clint ausfragte, ähnliches zu hören bekam und diesen feuerte, wurde die Kreativabteilung wieder lebendig und produktiv. Je mehr James und Natalie zusammen zu tun hatten umso stärker wurde ihr Verlangen nacheinander, so dass sie bald eine Liaison eingingen, die heißer und prickelnder nicht hätte sein können. Doch als James das wohl seiner Firma über die Liebe zu Natalie stellte, brach für Natalie eine Welt zusammen , die so schnell nicht wieder heil gemacht werden kann....
Auch dieses Buch von Leslie North ist wieder echt lesens- und empfehlenswert!
Die bekannte eingängige Schreibweise, die tolle Geschichte gepaart mit authentischen Protagonisten und deren überspringenden Emotionen lassen uns mitten ins Geschehen eintauchen und schenken uns schöne (Herzschmerz)Lesemomente.
Das Mitfiebern und Hoffen auf ein Happy End sowie das prickelnde Erleben ihrer heißen intimen Momente runden dieses Werk ab!
Durch die präzise Beschreibung der einzelnen Situationen entstehen lebhafte Bilder im Kopf, die die Geschichte quasi wie ein Film an einem vorbeiziehen lässt. Wirklich grandios! Man fliegt geradezu durch die Seiten und möchte das Buch bestenfalls in einem Rutsch durchlesen!
August 30, 2024
❤️🫶 Spoilerfreie Rezension für eine Serie, die begeistert – Pageturner mit Suchtfaktor 🫶❤️
Gerade habe ich das Buch „Der Mürrische“ beendet.
Ich gebe generell keine Zusammenfassung des Buches ab, weil ich der Meinung bin, dass diese auch durch den Klappentext beim Buch schon aussagefähig ist. Insofern schildere ich hier lediglich meine Eindrücke, da dadurch sichergestellt wird, dass definitiv nicht gespoilert wird 😊
Autor:
Leslie North‘ Bücher faszinieren. Mein Einstieg waren die Bücher der „Weihnachten auf der Ranch“ – Serie. Diese begeisterten mich schon sehr warum ich auch ihre „Milliardär-Bossholes“-Serie las – und daher auch nicht um die „Bossy Glenhaven Milliardäre“ herumkam. Und nach einem tollen Serienauftakt ging es nun mit Vollgas weiter! Ihre Bücher begeistern weiterhin und wecken die Lust auf mehr!
Schreibstil:
Ebenso wie bei den o.g. Reihen ist der Schreibstil von Leslie North wieder wundervoll. Von den ersten Seiten an packte mich die Geschichte und ließ mich nicht mehr los. Ich flog gefühlt durch das Buch weil ich unbedingt wissen wollte, wie es weitergehen würde. Leslie North wirft einen quasi direkt in die Geschichte und man kommt sofort in das Buch. Es gibt unerwartete Wendungen und ich finde es toll, wie sie in dieses – doch eigentlich bekannte Setting – tiefgründigere Aspekte einbringt. Das Buch war ein absoluter Pageturner und die Wendungen sind unerwartet – und doch so passend…
Protagonisten:
Wie die Geschichte auch, so sind auch die Charaktere durchaus vielschichtig und definitiv unvorhersehbar! Bei Leslie’s Büchern läuft nie alles rund. Es gibt Irrungen und Wirrungen, und Herzschmerz. Dass Fehler gemacht werden trägt zur Authentizität bei. Gerade der Umstand, dass die Protas auch eine Entwicklung durchmachen sorgt für eine Tiefe, die man ansonsten gar nicht so sehr kennt. Ich hatte auf jeden Fall eine komplette Achterbahnfahrt der Gefühle beim Lesen dieses Buches. So sehen Keeper und Pageturner aus. Und dieses Buch ist definitiv beides!
Stimmung/Atmosphäre:
Meiner Meinung nach total stimmig. Definitiv passend. Authentisch.
Setting:
So, wie man es von vielen anderen Büchern kennt – und dennoch komplett anders. Leslie North macht den Unterschied! Auf alle Fälle ein Buch, das so kurzweilig ist, dass die Zeit wie im Nu vergeht. Und wenn man auf der letzten Seite angelangt ist, freut man sich über das Ende – und bedauert gleichermaßen, dass es schon wieder vorbei ist. Und was macht man dann? Man fiebert bereits wieder auf das nächste Buch hin.. – Logisch, oder 😉😁
Kritikpunkte:
Gibt es keine. Bei mir sprang der Funke von Beginn an über, so dass es eine wahre Freude war, diese Geschichte zu lesen.
Fazit / Bewertung:
Mir hat das Buch wieder total gut gefallen. Es war ein Buchhighlight und ein absoluter Pageturner, der innerhalb weniger Tage verschlungen wurde! Dafür gibt es von mir 5- 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟von 5 Funkelsternen – und insofern eine klare, definitive Leseempfehlung! 😉🤗
Gerade habe ich das Buch „Der Mürrische“ beendet.
Ich gebe generell keine Zusammenfassung des Buches ab, weil ich der Meinung bin, dass diese auch durch den Klappentext beim Buch schon aussagefähig ist. Insofern schildere ich hier lediglich meine Eindrücke, da dadurch sichergestellt wird, dass definitiv nicht gespoilert wird 😊
Autor:
Leslie North‘ Bücher faszinieren. Mein Einstieg waren die Bücher der „Weihnachten auf der Ranch“ – Serie. Diese begeisterten mich schon sehr warum ich auch ihre „Milliardär-Bossholes“-Serie las – und daher auch nicht um die „Bossy Glenhaven Milliardäre“ herumkam. Und nach einem tollen Serienauftakt ging es nun mit Vollgas weiter! Ihre Bücher begeistern weiterhin und wecken die Lust auf mehr!
Schreibstil:
Ebenso wie bei den o.g. Reihen ist der Schreibstil von Leslie North wieder wundervoll. Von den ersten Seiten an packte mich die Geschichte und ließ mich nicht mehr los. Ich flog gefühlt durch das Buch weil ich unbedingt wissen wollte, wie es weitergehen würde. Leslie North wirft einen quasi direkt in die Geschichte und man kommt sofort in das Buch. Es gibt unerwartete Wendungen und ich finde es toll, wie sie in dieses – doch eigentlich bekannte Setting – tiefgründigere Aspekte einbringt. Das Buch war ein absoluter Pageturner und die Wendungen sind unerwartet – und doch so passend…
Protagonisten:
Wie die Geschichte auch, so sind auch die Charaktere durchaus vielschichtig und definitiv unvorhersehbar! Bei Leslie’s Büchern läuft nie alles rund. Es gibt Irrungen und Wirrungen, und Herzschmerz. Dass Fehler gemacht werden trägt zur Authentizität bei. Gerade der Umstand, dass die Protas auch eine Entwicklung durchmachen sorgt für eine Tiefe, die man ansonsten gar nicht so sehr kennt. Ich hatte auf jeden Fall eine komplette Achterbahnfahrt der Gefühle beim Lesen dieses Buches. So sehen Keeper und Pageturner aus. Und dieses Buch ist definitiv beides!
Stimmung/Atmosphäre:
Meiner Meinung nach total stimmig. Definitiv passend. Authentisch.
Setting:
So, wie man es von vielen anderen Büchern kennt – und dennoch komplett anders. Leslie North macht den Unterschied! Auf alle Fälle ein Buch, das so kurzweilig ist, dass die Zeit wie im Nu vergeht. Und wenn man auf der letzten Seite angelangt ist, freut man sich über das Ende – und bedauert gleichermaßen, dass es schon wieder vorbei ist. Und was macht man dann? Man fiebert bereits wieder auf das nächste Buch hin.. – Logisch, oder 😉😁
Kritikpunkte:
Gibt es keine. Bei mir sprang der Funke von Beginn an über, so dass es eine wahre Freude war, diese Geschichte zu lesen.
Fazit / Bewertung:
Mir hat das Buch wieder total gut gefallen. Es war ein Buchhighlight und ein absoluter Pageturner, der innerhalb weniger Tage verschlungen wurde! Dafür gibt es von mir 5- 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟von 5 Funkelsternen – und insofern eine klare, definitive Leseempfehlung! 😉🤗
February 13, 2024
𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒆😻
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺/ 𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑯𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑳𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑻𝑺 :📑
👠 Office Romance
👠 Billionaire Hero/CEO
👠 Sassy & Spitfire Heroine
👠 Enemies to Lovers
👠 Sizzling Chemistry
👠 Wicked Crazy bantering and fun times
👠 Fashion World
💕𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑸𝑼𝑶𝑻𝑬 💕
𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆— 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕, 𝑰 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒆. 𝑨 𝒇𝒖𝒏, 𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒂𝒃𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘.
𝑴𝒀 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾: 📝
Hot Spitfire slash upcoming hotstar Designer meets the Bossy CEO from the Fashion House Legacy himself.
Oohhh.... Let me firstly say that reading this one is going to be a blast and a party. I was IN and totally hooked right from that crazy scene where Natalie smacks James in the face.... WITH A MOP. 😲😅
Natalie is donning many hats and doing her best. She's attending her final semester at the design school while simultaneously working a couple of jobs to sustain her financially.
One fine evening, while doing her job of cleaning at Branson designs, she comes across a thief in a suit who's trespassing and gives him a good whacking with her mop while also teaching him a lesson but it's too late until she realises the identity of the thief who isn't one in the first place.😅
In spite of hating Natalie's guts, James stumbles upon her work and is so impressed by her designs that he offers her a promotion that leaves her shocked.
We get to dive deep into the world of designing clothes and fashion and scandals and so much more as we join Natalie and James working hard while finding it impossible to resist the spark that's undeniably lit up between them.
The whole office dynamics and office politics was oh so engrossing and watching Natalie being in her element was oh so fun as she's a phenomenal designer.
The accidental text msgs were fun to see as a misunderstanding gives way to something more.
James though, had me a bit annoyed with the way he was but I loved the way Natalie was tough with him.
Bernie, James' granny and Christopher, his brother, were also my other favourite characters even though we see Chris have his own issues. But Bernie was so cool and I loved hanging out with her.
This one definitely kept me glued to the pages as it had a turn popping up at every other chapter but seeing Natalie and James lock horns and then resisting wanting to tear each other's clothes off in the next breath.... Ooohhh... Fire.
Definitely can't wait for more from this series. Loved loved this one.💕💕
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺/ 𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑯𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑳𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑻𝑺 :📑
👠 Office Romance
👠 Billionaire Hero/CEO
👠 Sassy & Spitfire Heroine
👠 Enemies to Lovers
👠 Sizzling Chemistry
👠 Wicked Crazy bantering and fun times
👠 Fashion World
💕𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑸𝑼𝑶𝑻𝑬 💕
𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆— 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕, 𝑰 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒑 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒆. 𝑨 𝒇𝒖𝒏, 𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒂𝒃𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘.
𝑴𝒀 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾: 📝
Hot Spitfire slash upcoming hotstar Designer meets the Bossy CEO from the Fashion House Legacy himself.
Oohhh.... Let me firstly say that reading this one is going to be a blast and a party. I was IN and totally hooked right from that crazy scene where Natalie smacks James in the face.... WITH A MOP. 😲😅
Natalie is donning many hats and doing her best. She's attending her final semester at the design school while simultaneously working a couple of jobs to sustain her financially.
One fine evening, while doing her job of cleaning at Branson designs, she comes across a thief in a suit who's trespassing and gives him a good whacking with her mop while also teaching him a lesson but it's too late until she realises the identity of the thief who isn't one in the first place.😅
In spite of hating Natalie's guts, James stumbles upon her work and is so impressed by her designs that he offers her a promotion that leaves her shocked.
We get to dive deep into the world of designing clothes and fashion and scandals and so much more as we join Natalie and James working hard while finding it impossible to resist the spark that's undeniably lit up between them.
The whole office dynamics and office politics was oh so engrossing and watching Natalie being in her element was oh so fun as she's a phenomenal designer.
The accidental text msgs were fun to see as a misunderstanding gives way to something more.
James though, had me a bit annoyed with the way he was but I loved the way Natalie was tough with him.
Bernie, James' granny and Christopher, his brother, were also my other favourite characters even though we see Chris have his own issues. But Bernie was so cool and I loved hanging out with her.
This one definitely kept me glued to the pages as it had a turn popping up at every other chapter but seeing Natalie and James lock horns and then resisting wanting to tear each other's clothes off in the next breath.... Ooohhh... Fire.
Definitely can't wait for more from this series. Loved loved this one.💕💕
February 7, 2024
5 stars PLUS++ Wonderful Story, Wonderful Characters!
I highly recommend this delightful love story filled with strong women making their way into a cutthroat business. Most of the characters are kind, hardworking, creative, and fun. Natalie Reynolds is awesome. I loved everything about this strong confident hard hard-working woman with major artistic talent. The story revolves around Natalie working for Branson Designs. She starts at the bottom working in retail but her dream is to be a fashion designer. Branson Designs has been a well-respected high-end clothing business for many years but lately, the luster is dulling. James Branson, the grandson of the founder is running the business and that’s about all he has time to do. When James comically bumps into Natalie late one night at the store they do not hit it off at all. In Natalie’s haste to go home, she leaves behind her portfolio filled with extraordinary fashion drawings. When James finds her designs he is amazed and knows she needs to work under Branson Designs.
Natalie has a strong “take no crap” personality and James respects her. The talented people in the Branson creative department are great and once Clint, the awful director, is booted out it is a wonderful place to work. The process of creating a clothing line, the actual clothing descriptions, and the pecking order at Branson’s was very interesting, it made me feel like I was a bug on the wall taking it all in.
James is a great caring man who is trying to protect his family business and his family. He’s all work no play and burning out. I loved the Branson family. They may be mega-rich folk but they had caring lovable traits. “The Grumpy One” has a fantastic ending that gave me goosebumps. I received a free advanced copy of this story from Booksprout and these are my thoughts. Linda
I highly recommend this delightful love story filled with strong women making their way into a cutthroat business. Most of the characters are kind, hardworking, creative, and fun. Natalie Reynolds is awesome. I loved everything about this strong confident hard hard-working woman with major artistic talent. The story revolves around Natalie working for Branson Designs. She starts at the bottom working in retail but her dream is to be a fashion designer. Branson Designs has been a well-respected high-end clothing business for many years but lately, the luster is dulling. James Branson, the grandson of the founder is running the business and that’s about all he has time to do. When James comically bumps into Natalie late one night at the store they do not hit it off at all. In Natalie’s haste to go home, she leaves behind her portfolio filled with extraordinary fashion drawings. When James finds her designs he is amazed and knows she needs to work under Branson Designs.
Natalie has a strong “take no crap” personality and James respects her. The talented people in the Branson creative department are great and once Clint, the awful director, is booted out it is a wonderful place to work. The process of creating a clothing line, the actual clothing descriptions, and the pecking order at Branson’s was very interesting, it made me feel like I was a bug on the wall taking it all in.
James is a great caring man who is trying to protect his family business and his family. He’s all work no play and burning out. I loved the Branson family. They may be mega-rich folk but they had caring lovable traits. “The Grumpy One” has a fantastic ending that gave me goosebumps. I received a free advanced copy of this story from Booksprout and these are my thoughts. Linda
September 3, 2024
Natalie is an extremely likable heroine who provides some laughs in this book. “The Squeaking Creature” with a mop as a microphone stand throws the grumpy, controlled James off course... or rather gets him on the edge of his seat.
What I liked about this book was James's family clan and the feel of the family business.
It was also easy to empathize with Natalie – the orphan that no one wanted. James's diverting "stupidity" actually makes you want to punch him. But... for a good romance novel, the hero sometimes has to be a little stupid so that in the end he has a better appreciation of his hero's worth. That was the case here too.
“The Grumpy One” is a lovely workplace romance novel with a family touch.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
***********************************************
German titel: "Der Mürrische: Ein Bosshole-Griesgram/ Sonnenschein-Milliardärs-Liebesroman (Bossy Glenhaven Milliardäre 2)"
Natalie ist eine äußerst liebenswerte Heldin, die in diesem Buch für einige Lacher sorgt. "Die quäkende Kreatur" mit Mopp als Mikrofonständer wirft den mürrischen, beherrschten James gewaltig aus der Bahn .... bzw. bringt ihn etsprechend auf die Palme.
Mir gefiel an diesem Buch James Familien Clan und das Flair des Familienunternehmens.
Auch konnte man sich gut in Natalie - dem Waisenkind, das niemand wollte - hineinversetzen. James kurzweilige "Dummheit" hingegen führt eher dazu, dass man ihm eine reinboxen möchte. Aber... für einen guten Liebesroman muss der Held manchmal etwas dumm sein, damit er am Ende den Wert seiner Heldin besser schätzt. Das war auch hier so.
"Der Mürrische" ist ein schöner Arbeitsplatz Liebesroman mit familiären Touch.
Ich erhielt ein Leseexemplar von der Autorin im Austausch für eine ehrliche Rezension.
What I liked about this book was James's family clan and the feel of the family business.
It was also easy to empathize with Natalie – the orphan that no one wanted. James's diverting "stupidity" actually makes you want to punch him. But... for a good romance novel, the hero sometimes has to be a little stupid so that in the end he has a better appreciation of his hero's worth. That was the case here too.
“The Grumpy One” is a lovely workplace romance novel with a family touch.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
***********************************************
German titel: "Der Mürrische: Ein Bosshole-Griesgram/ Sonnenschein-Milliardärs-Liebesroman (Bossy Glenhaven Milliardäre 2)"
Natalie ist eine äußerst liebenswerte Heldin, die in diesem Buch für einige Lacher sorgt. "Die quäkende Kreatur" mit Mopp als Mikrofonständer wirft den mürrischen, beherrschten James gewaltig aus der Bahn .... bzw. bringt ihn etsprechend auf die Palme.
Mir gefiel an diesem Buch James Familien Clan und das Flair des Familienunternehmens.
Auch konnte man sich gut in Natalie - dem Waisenkind, das niemand wollte - hineinversetzen. James kurzweilige "Dummheit" hingegen führt eher dazu, dass man ihm eine reinboxen möchte. Aber... für einen guten Liebesroman muss der Held manchmal etwas dumm sein, damit er am Ende den Wert seiner Heldin besser schätzt. Das war auch hier so.
"Der Mürrische" ist ein schöner Arbeitsplatz Liebesroman mit familiären Touch.
Ich erhielt ein Leseexemplar von der Autorin im Austausch für eine ehrliche Rezension.
August 8, 2025
This is my first novel by Leslie and I must admit I went into this book blind. However, it definitely caught me by surprise how much I enjoyed this book! So much banter between the MC's and I felt James needed someone like Natalie in his life to inject some excitement into it!
So James is our typical grumpy billionaire and CEO to a successful clothing brand - Branson Design. He lives and breaths for work but one night Natalie happens to mistake him for a stalker/thief and attacks him with a mop. What started as a very unconventional meet cute and several interactions forcing them both to work together, sparks starts to fly between them.
James and Natalie embark on a 'fake relationship', preliminary to ward away Natalie's handy admirer but when all the faking starts becoming too real, they must choose whether love is really worth the risk...
I adored Natalie's character who didn't have the greatest childhood but didn't let it get her down. She was a typical sunshine FMC who made lemonade with the lemons life threw at her. James, on the other hand has huge responsibilities and doesn't want to let his grandmother down with Branson Designs. After his brother's meltdown and witnessing his mother raise them up as a widow, he wants nothing to do with love and the pain it brings. However, Natalie makes him feel things he's never felt before and is scared of admitting his feelings. I loved how Natalie changed it all for him and the fact he could trust her not to hurt him. They were seriously a cute couple (but I also wanted more grovelling from him!!! 😂).
There were some parts where I seriously questioned James motives with Heidi but I'm glad he realised just what he had been missing!
Overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend to others looking for a funny office romance story! 🫶🏻
So James is our typical grumpy billionaire and CEO to a successful clothing brand - Branson Design. He lives and breaths for work but one night Natalie happens to mistake him for a stalker/thief and attacks him with a mop. What started as a very unconventional meet cute and several interactions forcing them both to work together, sparks starts to fly between them.
James and Natalie embark on a 'fake relationship', preliminary to ward away Natalie's handy admirer but when all the faking starts becoming too real, they must choose whether love is really worth the risk...
I adored Natalie's character who didn't have the greatest childhood but didn't let it get her down. She was a typical sunshine FMC who made lemonade with the lemons life threw at her. James, on the other hand has huge responsibilities and doesn't want to let his grandmother down with Branson Designs. After his brother's meltdown and witnessing his mother raise them up as a widow, he wants nothing to do with love and the pain it brings. However, Natalie makes him feel things he's never felt before and is scared of admitting his feelings. I loved how Natalie changed it all for him and the fact he could trust her not to hurt him. They were seriously a cute couple (but I also wanted more grovelling from him!!! 😂).
There were some parts where I seriously questioned James motives with Heidi but I'm glad he realised just what he had been missing!
Overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend to others looking for a funny office romance story! 🫶🏻
February 21, 2024
This was an office billionaire romance.
This book has it all - fake relationship, romantic comedy, steam, heartbreak, redemption and a happily ever after ending. The characters were realistic and complex. Highly recommend! Must read!
Natalie Reynolds is finishing her degree in design and working three jobs. She is impulsive, reactionary and has a mouth she can't cobtrol. Her closest friend and roommate Stephanie is her rock.
James Branson is the CEO of Brandon Designs and grandson of the founder. He is grumpy, arrogant condescending and pompous. He is fiercely protective of his family and will put their wellbeing before his own.
They met late at night when Natalie was mopping the floor in the retail section of the company. She was singing (badly) and dancing to a Queen B song when James surprised her and got attacked by her wet mop. They get into a heated argument and she calls security for help. The security guard falls all over himself to help James. After she learns he is the big boss she doesn't back down and he sends her home for the night. She thinks she may be fired but decides to go in early the next morning anyway. Her employee card doesn't work so she assumes he fired her. James shows up with her notebook she left behind, she tells him off and he offers her a promotion to the design side of the business based on her sketches. This begins her journey into finding her passion and falling in love. They each have baggage to resolve along with some poor decisions, but get their HEA in the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book has it all - fake relationship, romantic comedy, steam, heartbreak, redemption and a happily ever after ending. The characters were realistic and complex. Highly recommend! Must read!
Natalie Reynolds is finishing her degree in design and working three jobs. She is impulsive, reactionary and has a mouth she can't cobtrol. Her closest friend and roommate Stephanie is her rock.
James Branson is the CEO of Brandon Designs and grandson of the founder. He is grumpy, arrogant condescending and pompous. He is fiercely protective of his family and will put their wellbeing before his own.
They met late at night when Natalie was mopping the floor in the retail section of the company. She was singing (badly) and dancing to a Queen B song when James surprised her and got attacked by her wet mop. They get into a heated argument and she calls security for help. The security guard falls all over himself to help James. After she learns he is the big boss she doesn't back down and he sends her home for the night. She thinks she may be fired but decides to go in early the next morning anyway. Her employee card doesn't work so she assumes he fired her. James shows up with her notebook she left behind, she tells him off and he offers her a promotion to the design side of the business based on her sketches. This begins her journey into finding her passion and falling in love. They each have baggage to resolve along with some poor decisions, but get their HEA in the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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