Discover a delightful collection of sweet romance short stories, perfect for those moments when you need a heartwarming pick-me-up. Indulge in quick, charming reads that will lift your spirits and bring a smile to your face.
The Man Sleeping on Bench When NYU student Julia finds a man sleeping on a beach bench, she offers him shelter, not knowing he's an attorney. After he rescues her from a criminal trap, he makes an unexpected offer. Will she accept?
The True Kindness In a small town, a female grocery store owner's generosity strains her finances. Richard, a mysterious, grumpy man, offers her a chance and reveals a secret that could change everything. What will they discover?
Under the Same Roof Realtor Lisa and homeowner Anthony, facing their own crises, find unexpected solace under one roof. As they navigate his impending foreclosure together, their bond deepens. But can their newfound love withstand the financial storm looming over them?
My Tough Boss A single mom, Sara grapples with her demanding job under Paul, her stern boss. As personal struggles draw them closer, she discovers his unexpected kindness. When Paul presents a life-changing offer, can Sara envision a new future for her family?
Shines in the Darkness Lily, an aspiring photographer, unexpectedly collides with Ethan, a brooding stranger. Ethan's dark past begins to surface as they collaborate to uncover the city's hidden stories through her lens. Will it threaten their burgeoning bond?
Sunlit Secrets in the Café Lila, a writer, finds an envelope dropped by a stranger, Adrian, in her favorite coffee shop. It leads her to secrets about her best friend's mysterious death. Can Lila and Adrian survive to explore their budding love as danger closes in?
Whispers of Fire Ella, an artist, is drawn to both the vibrant hues of a coastal town and its reclusive resident, Max. As she paints a charred mansion, she uncovers secrets about the fire that devastated Max's life. Where will her findings lead?
I hated the 1st story, loved the next 3 stories, and the last 3 stories are okay but too similar (artsy sunshine heroine meets the dark, brooding hero in a coffee shop and helps him overcome his demons with a side order of suspense). So I took a couple of stars off for unoriginality. Overall, it's a thought-provoking collection of seven G-rated romance stories that match a practical-minded "grump" with a gold-hearted idealist to make their part of the world a better place. In some cases, the lead characters switch places or mirror each other. Each story is like an onion - multi-layered and might make you cry!
1. The Man Sleeping on a Bench (2/5 stars) - Hard-to-believe romance that involves a strange first encounter, a false accusation, a sudden rescue, and an improbable happy ending! The hero and heroine switch "grumpy" and "sunshine" roles as life circumstances dictate. For me, their romance comes out of nowhere. I probably would've enjoyed the story more if the happy ending was an intimate friendship.
2. The True Kindness (5/5 stars) - A shopkeeper learns how to be kind in a practical way and sustain a romance with a business-minded do-gooder. I love how their dynamic evolves throughout the story: from grocery store owner-and-customer to employer-and-employee to teacher-and-student and, lastly, to romantic partners. Quotable dialogue!
Excerpt:
One day, I overheard him talking on the phone. “Yes, we’ll continue the program,” he says firmly. “It’s important. These kids depend on it.”
My curiosity is piqued; what is he talking about?
A coworker explains, "We’re in a program. It helps feed low-income middle school kids." A part of our profits goes to it.”
I’m taken aback. I thought this man was all business, yet he has been deeply involved in helping the community. It’s a side of him I hadn’t even considered.
One afternoon, Richard invites me to join him at a school. They're distributing meals from our program. Seeing the kids’ smiles and genuine gratitude is eye-opening. This is what sustainable kindness looks like.
As we drive back, I share my thoughts. “I used to think you were just about the bottom line, but I was wrong. What you’re doing here… it’s remarkable.”
He smiles a rare, genuine smile. “I learned the hard way that helping others isn’t just about giving things away. It’s about creating a system where you can keep giving without losing yourself.”
“Richard, I’ve been thinking about what you said. My mistake was to give everything away until I had nothing left.”
He nods. “It’s a common mistake.” He glances at me. “Smart kindness is true kindness.”
His words make me pause. Smart kindness. It’s a concept I hadn’t considered before. I grow up under his guidance, not just in my job skills but as a person. “Richard, I’ve learned a lot from you.”
Richard looks thoughtful. “Sometimes, we learn the most valuable lessons a bit late. But the important thing is that you’re learning them now.”
...He taught me what true kindness means.
Applicable Scriptures:
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! - Galatians 5:22-23
3. Under the Same Roof (5/5 stars) - A former "Sunshine Boy" gets hit with a "storm" and needs his realtor to change his outlook from downcast back to sunny. I like how their relationship gets progressively "real" as they drop their social masks with each other and help each other with their "storms." This story highlights the benefits of partnership!
Quotes:
"My voice carries a hint of bitterness, a sentiment I’ve become too familiar with lately. I wasn’t born with this negative tone. People used to call me “Sunshine Boy. Lisa’s demeanor stays the same. Her resolve strengthens."
"A connection is forming, a bond forged in the fires of adversity."
"Lisa brings life into the house and my world as the days pass. Her resilience and ability to smile even when things look bleak inspire me."
Applicable Scriptures:
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. - Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
4. My Tough Boss (4/5 stars) - This story has unexpected-but-pleasant plot twists. Bottom line: Don't judge a tough boss by his frown!
Quotes:
“Anything that can be lost was never truly yours.”
"Todd, I accept those payments. I value Sara’s independence and respect her pride," Paul says.
The man I once saw as unyielding and brutal reveals a vulnerable and considerate side.
Applicable Scriptures:
JESUS: "Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.” (John 7:24)
Wisdom is even better when you have money. Both are a benefit as you go through life. Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life. - Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. - Philippians 2:3-4
5. Shines in the Darkness - 3/5 Walking to the café, I feel this random bump-into might be the start of something unexpected. Ethan has a stormy exterior. I am always chasing sunshine. We seem like we're from different worlds. But maybe, just maybe, we'll find some common ground... We continue talking, and the atmosphere around us shifts as we do. The café's warmth seems to seep into Ethan, melting away some of his iciness. He's still guarded, but there's a curiosity in his eyes, a spark that wasn't there before...
We stand hand in hand. The water mirrors our first kiss. It reflects the love that has grown between us. Night arrives. I see Ethan's eyes shining in the darkness, and I know how beautiful they are
6. Sunlit Secrets in the Cafe - 3/5
Excerpt:
This café is my daily haven. It's where my thoughts spill into my novels. There's a unique charm here. The way sunlight filters in feels right. So do the well-used tables and the gentle jazz backdrop. My days usually have a simple rhythm: work, write, rewind, but not today.
I am scribbling away. I barely notice when a tall man with dark hair gets a coffee and chooses the seat opposite me. Only when I glance up and meet those intense blue eyes do I pause. He seems oddly familiar. It's like a forgotten song that I still know all the words to. The café's hum fades as our gazes remain locked...
Adrian, always observant, scans the area, his sharp eyes missing nothing. "We shouldn't discuss Jane's case at the café," he murmurs, a hint of reproach in his voice. "It's public. We could've been watched." I chuckle, trying to lighten the mood. "You underestimate my sense of adventure! I'm a suspense novel writer. Besides, the café's my turf!" He looks at me, his intense eyes softening. "Lila, this isn't one of your stories. The danger's real." I face him, and my determination is evident. "Adrian, I'm not some damsel in distress. I've faced challenges before, and I'll face them now. With you." He sighs, pulling me close, his warmth enveloping me. "You're fearless, you know that? But these people are worse than animals. They play dirty." "I'm not scared," I reply, my voice firm. "We've got something they can never understand or break: love." A smile tugs at the corner of his lips. "Always the optimist, aren't you?" I grin. "Someone has to balance out your broodiness," He chuckles, the sound echoing in the stillness of the night. "Together, then?" "Together," I affirm, sealing our pact with a kiss.
7. Whispers of Fire - 3/5
Excerpt: I drag my art supplies along as I enter a cozy-looking café that promises warmth and a delicious coffee aroma. The bell above the door jingles, announcing my arrival. A man stands behind the counter. He isn't smiling, and shadows cover his eyes. But, something is captivating about him. Maybe it's the way he moves with purpose or the intensity in his gaze. He's not your typical sunny barista...
One breezy evening, as we walk along the beach, Max turns to me, his eyes reflecting the golden hues of the setting sun. "You've brought light into a very dark corner of my life, Ella. I can't thank you enough."...
And as for us? Our bond deepens. We become an inseparable duo—the brave firefighter and the sunshine artist.
Applicable Scripture: The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. - John 1:4-5 New Living Translation
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
his is a collection of short stories that touch on the various human emotions. Overall while there were 2 of the stories I wasn’t a fan of, the others swung my vote the other way. Overall a 4 out of 5 stars.
The Man Sleeping on a Bench: Not who I thought the man on the bench would be! I do have to wonder though, would most people be willing to go to jail for something they didn’t do just so their dog (any pet) wouldn’t be taken to a shelter?!
This story definitely has karma in it. Do good to and for other people and it will come back to you.
The True Kindness: I felt this story. Really felt it - at least the first half. I do believe that there are good people, really good people in the world that just want to help others. I also believe that those who need help become demanding and entitled to that help. To the point they the person doing the helping is left empty - and in this case - without their grandfathers legacy that was obviously so important to them. The world needs more people like Robert.
Under the Same Roof: This story goes to show that you never know what someone else is going through. It’s easy to take your anger, pain, etc out on the people closest to you - whether physically or emotionally - but they may be going through something just as bad, or worse, than you. Everyone should have compassion for their fellow man.
My Tough Boss: Todd was an entitled jerk and the needless, endless gossip. I’m surprised he wasn’t fired! The boss had reasons for each and every decision he made but people usually see the bad (or what they perceive as bad) because of their anger. Doing something anonymous for the right reason and standing up for someone is always the right reason.
Shines in the Darkness: I fully expected someone from the past to come out after the exhibition! What I didn’t understand was what her job actually was. She said she was trying to be a photographer - does that mean that is her job and she’s just starting out? So far, this is my least favorite of the first five short stories in this collection. I understand his reserved nature due to his past but this one just didn’t quite gel for me.
Sunlit Secrets in the Cafe: Jeez - way to interrogate someone you don’t know at all just because they sat beside you since all other seats were taken! I’d have left so fast if I started getting the third degree by a stranger. And then to top it off she looks through his stuff he dropped as he rushed to leave!
This book went dark really quick and honestly I wasn’t prepared for it! Undercover work, threats, murder, life without parole! A lot happened in a very short story!
Whispers of Fire: I felt that this story was not very well written. There were several discrepancies in the storyline that not only did not add up but caused me confusion when reading. And why did he do it? There’s no explanation given!
Seven short stories of people whose good nature and compassion were taken advantage of in some stories but in all of them the goodness they see in others do come through positively in the end for them!
I loved to read these heart warming stories! In this world today especially these stories resonated to me especially as a needed wake up call! Kindness is never outdated and though there are those who will take advantage of you, you just have to know the limits to what you can do to help others as the two women found out the hard way in the first two stories.
I wholeheartedly recommend you get this book and read it and tell all your friends and family to read it as well! It’s one of the best books to come out this year! There are golden nuggets of thought to help you in your everyday life as well so it’s well worth it to keep it handy to reread it again for some inspiration as you need it when time and the weight of the world gets you down on life and yourself!
This is a ray of sunshine that is much needed in this gloomy dark dreary world we find ourselves in!
Bravo and Kudos to you Eva for writing such uplifting stories! My thanks to you knows no bounds!
This is another great collection of short stories from Eva Stone. Although they are short stories you get a range of emotions, each one has a different set.
The Man Sleeping on a Bench NYU student discovered a gentleman sleeping on a bench while out walking her dog. She intervenes with him sleeping on the bench. When she sees him again he tells her "Sometimes, it's not the big gestures but the small acts of kindness that make a difference." This is something we can all remember and live by.
The True Kindness You can give until you have nothing left and the people you gave to turns on you. Then there is kindness that you do without giving everything away, do it in moderation and limited.
Under the Same Roof Two desperate people become roommates. They go from strangers to friends to a couple.
There are several more stories in the book that needs to be read. Let's finish reading this book to see what else happens.
This was a wonderful set of stories. They are all independent from eachother and can be read in any order, or at any time. With their brief natimure, they make fir a nice break in the day or a quick getaway from reality. Several of the stories have a copy mystery feel, while the rest are "simply" sweet, clean romance tales. Whatever flavor your looking for, Stone is likely to have got you covered in this grouping of well written love stories.
Stone regularly includes a strong message in her writings. Moral or ethical growth is evident among her characters and its clearly intentional. I, for one, applaud her for using this medium to broaden the minds and hearts of the readership. Of course I enjoy escaping into a good book, but being able to walk away with a lesson learned (or reinforced) heightens that somehow. It's a pleasure to read her collections.
I received this set of stories as a gift and volunteered my review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
THE SUNSHINE’S GRUMPY PROTECTOR by Eva Stone is made up of seven very short stories. He’s always the protector with some darkness in his life. She’s always filled with sunshine and wants to find out his backstory and more about his background. Ultimately they all fall in love.
The stories don’t have a lot of depth but do have a lot of secrets. Most involved the arts in some way. The stories were sometimes choppy and glossed over details that would have enhanced the story. She always helped give closure to the grumpy one. I liked that the stories were all in different settings but none stood out to me. I thought it odd that three of the stories had characters named Thompson in them but had no connection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"The Sun wine's Grumpy Protector" is an Action and Suspense Sweet Romance Short Stories Collection written by Eva Stone. This book includes seven short stories, each story told in the first person viewpoint of either the main female or the main male character. These stories can be read by anyone, whether a young teenager or an elderly senior citizen like me. I love the fact that I can sit down and read a story that is a clean read, and not be bombarded with graphic scenes of sex or violence. Thank you Eva Stone for making my reading experience a pleasurable one. I gave this book a 5 star rating. I received an advanced reader's copy and this is my honest and voluntary review.
In Ms. Stone's latest book, five couples learn that love and a positive attitude can make all the difference when adversity comes their way. Whether it's an optimistic college student offering shelter to an attorney she fins napping on a bench at the beach, a sweet real estate agent and a man struggling to avoid foreclosure on his home, a single mother whose Boss's unexpected kindness leads to a life changing experience, or an accidental call that leads to overcoming adversity, each story shows that if you have love and the right attitude, you can do surprising things.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Just the thing when you’re wanting to get into the swing. Great short stories that are so endearing. A pleasant relaxing pick me up. There’s lots of endearing stories to warm your heart and give you the feel goods in every short book . A quality collection with all the affections and redeeming qualities of man and woman kind. Sublime , very well written and beautifully described with believable characters with many great traits.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a lovely collection of tales. All have a chance meeting with an enigmatic or troubled man and an ensuing dramatic laden love story. Quite gritty some of them, dealing with such serious issues as murder, homelessness, poverty, loss of home or earnings. Real true to life situations amidst the romance. So each story has a substance and good plot to it. Great length to them as well, nice for a quick bedtime read, dinner breaks etc. Really enjoy these short story collections by this author, they are always a good read.
This was a collection of sweet grumpy/ sunshine romances. All the them are clean. The author's writing is flowery and beautifully descriptive. I really enjoy the way some of the characters interact with each other and the hope their conversations bring. I'm not usually one for collections, but I enjoy this author's writing. These little stories are a great palate cleanser between heavier books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Each story is a standalone romance with some suspense. All end in a HEA. Some of the stories may contain triggers.... homelessness and false charges, charity resulting in personal loss, financial ruin, life threatening childhood illness, criminal history, murders of close relationships, arson resulting in death Can love come out of devastation?.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
This is a collection of short, sweet romantic stories. Each was a little different and some I liked better than others. That being said, I enjoyed them all. You have to know going into them that they are short stories and not novellas so they aren't deep. I thought they were great for what I was looking for. They left me with a smile. The first and last stories were my favorites 😊. These are absolutely worth the read if you need a smile and don't have much time to read.
This collection is loaded with 7 awesome short stories. All sweet clean reads full of love and romance and some suspense. Each story is a stand alone read that's wonderfully written with a variety of plots, storylines and all are completely entertaining. With every page turn you will love the characters and their stories. You don't want to miss this amazing collection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was very good read for just short stories as there were seven different stories but all of them show you that if you keep your faith and trust people that anything is possible. I love how the author was able to get everyone of the individual who was having a hard time to realize that they are not the only ones and if they just take a little and see that there is good with everyone they would be much happier.
Stories included in this book are all about acts of kindness. From the boss who gives financial advice to employees as well as blesses a single mom and her sick son. To a college girl who’s got the wrong choice of friends and bad luck. Each story is laced with love and tenderness . Suggest book if you are feeling discouraged or sad.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is a collection of seven short stories. All of them are about kindness shown in different ways. Some are about helping people in need, some are about helping someone deny something they ask, and some are about helping someone find themselves after a painful experience. I enjoyed reading all of them, but my favourites are “My Tough Boss”, “Sunlit Secrets in the Café” and “Whispers of Fire”. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
understand it's short stories but I've read some that can give enough details to feel as if I know everything I need in twenty or so pages. This was not one of them. I love the ideas of love and kindness (both all too needed) but the stories themselves were too abrupt, too "telling" . If the stories had been longer, more fleshed out (and a little research for how the legal system works) these could be good. Others, from reviews I would say definitely, will enjoy this but it wasn't for me
A sweet collection of seven clean romance short stories. The stories are The Man Sleeping on Bench, The True Kindness, Under the Same Roof, My Tough Boss, Shines in the Darkness, Sunlit Secrets in the Café and Whispers of Fire. I found the stories to be all well worth reading, I will read again. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Have you read anything by Eva yet? If you said no then let me make a suggestion for you and read these books. All 7 of these books are great and you will not only fall head over heels in love with the storyline but the characters will grab your attention as well. So, trust me when I say get these books today and start enjoying reading them.
These stories really brought many rays of sunshine, it was just so nice to read about good people caring for others and being rewarded for their kindness, in our harsh and selfish world I really enjoyed reading this collection about how it should be and wished things would work this way more often in reality.
Great collection of grumpy male lead who has a heart of gold. All the stories are quick reads with relatable characters and end in happily ever after. Some are more exciting then others or more emotional. If you want quick reads give this author a try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Sunshine's Grumpy Protector: Action & Suspense Sweet Romance Short Stories Collection ..A quick charming,sweet with a touch of angst,romance and second chances..A great collection of short stories that you wil enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A wonderful set of sweet clean stories. filled with love and suspense. each story is a stand alone so you can read them in any order. I really enjoyed the stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
These seven short stories learns you that there is more to life. They are full of understanding, kindness, compassion and love. They are all feel good stories that will make you think about it long after you finished this book. A great must read stories.
This is a collection of seven sweet stories that are enjoyable to read. Each one has a different scenario but ultimately end in a satisfying way. The writing style for each of these is well done as they pull you in and hold your attention. I recommend reading this collection of sweet stories.