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Out of His League #2
Snake Eyes
The longer she stays, the further he falls
When Charlie discovers her ex has destroyed her treasured plant collection, she does what any woman would do. She trashes his car and flees in the night. But driving across the country during a cold snap ends in disaster when her car skids off the road—and into a tree.
When Garrett hears an almighty crash in the forest around his home, he knows he has to help. The last thing he expects is to meet the one person on earth who makes him forget just how much he hates everyone else.
After Garrett realizes Charlie can’t afford to repair her car, he offers her a deal; he’ll pay her to refurbish his dad’s old bar—Snake Eyes—to make up the deficit.
But the longer she stays, the further he falls. Before long, the date of her departure beckons. She’ll soon be leaving him behind, but will anything be left of his heart when she does?
In Snake Eyes, a spicy Halloween novella, Charlie discovers that love—and trees—really can crash into your life when you least expect it.
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
When Charlie discovers her ex has destroyed her treasured plant collection, she does what any woman would do. She trashes his car and flees in the night. But driving across the country during a cold snap ends in disaster when her car skids off the road—and into a tree.
When Garrett hears an almighty crash in the forest around his home, he knows he has to help. The last thing he expects is to meet the one person on earth who makes him forget just how much he hates everyone else.
After Garrett realizes Charlie can’t afford to repair her car, he offers her a deal; he’ll pay her to refurbish his dad’s old bar—Snake Eyes—to make up the deficit.
But the longer she stays, the further he falls. Before long, the date of her departure beckons. She’ll soon be leaving him behind, but will anything be left of his heart when she does?
In Snake Eyes, a spicy Halloween novella, Charlie discovers that love—and trees—really can crash into your life when you least expect it.
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
133 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2025
117 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Stevie Sparks
11 books302 followersStevie Sparks is a British author and long-time copy editor from Windsor, England (where Windsor Castle is).
She suffers from a terrible medical condition that has left her incapable of reading books without smut. She also has multiple sclerosis. When it comes to books, she prefers the phrase 'full steam ahead.'
Stevie writes both contemporary and historical romance.
She suffers from a terrible medical condition that has left her incapable of reading books without smut. She also has multiple sclerosis. When it comes to books, she prefers the phrase 'full steam ahead.'
Stevie writes both contemporary and historical romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 7, 2025
5🌟, 4 🌶️
Loved, Loved, Loved this book!
This story was an absolute delight! Its brisk pacing kept things lively, and I found the lead characters incredibly endearing.
Garrett plays the quiet, guarded type who slowly opens up thanks to Charlie’s vibrant and whimsical personality.
Their dynamic is beautifully complementary—His quiet strength shelters her, and her light draws out the love he rarely shows.
As a devoted dog lover, I couldn’t help but be drawn to Hunter, Garrett’s loyal companion. I hadn’t anticipated him forming a bond with Charlie, but in the final chapters, he completely won me over. His unwavering loyalty and surprising courage made him truly unforgettable.
If you’re after a sweet, spicy, quick read with heart and charm, this one’s a winner. 🏆
~~~~
Many thanks to Stevie Sparks and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd. for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
Loved, Loved, Loved this book!
This story was an absolute delight! Its brisk pacing kept things lively, and I found the lead characters incredibly endearing.
Garrett plays the quiet, guarded type who slowly opens up thanks to Charlie’s vibrant and whimsical personality.
Their dynamic is beautifully complementary—His quiet strength shelters her, and her light draws out the love he rarely shows.
As a devoted dog lover, I couldn’t help but be drawn to Hunter, Garrett’s loyal companion. I hadn’t anticipated him forming a bond with Charlie, but in the final chapters, he completely won me over. His unwavering loyalty and surprising courage made him truly unforgettable.
If you’re after a sweet, spicy, quick read with heart and charm, this one’s a winner. 🏆
~~~~
Many thanks to Stevie Sparks and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd. for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
September 9, 2025
This novella was so much fun. It has 111 pages but didn't feel like a shorter story. It was fast paced, great storyline and fellt complete, it made me laugh and it came with a happy ending (in multiple ways if you know what I mean😉). And the cherry on top was the grumpy german shepherd Hunter.
So the story is about Charlie who breaks up with her boyfriend and travels to her hometown. Halfway there she gets in a one sided car accident in the middle of the woods. She gets rescued by ex militair Garrett and his grumpy dog Hunter. Her car is broke and she has no money to pay for the repairs. Garrett makes her an offer to help her out but along the way they fall in love. Will she stay or will she continue her journey?
📚 Contemporary Romance
📚 Smalltown
📚 Forced Proximity
📚 Spice
📚 Grumpy dog
Favorite quotes📖
"This is for my Nonna's cactus, you fucking asshole."
"There’s only one time I swing my hips, ma'am, and it's not when I'm dancing."
"I don't want to remember you, Charlie baby. I want you here. Where you belong."
So the story is about Charlie who breaks up with her boyfriend and travels to her hometown. Halfway there she gets in a one sided car accident in the middle of the woods. She gets rescued by ex militair Garrett and his grumpy dog Hunter. Her car is broke and she has no money to pay for the repairs. Garrett makes her an offer to help her out but along the way they fall in love. Will she stay or will she continue her journey?
📚 Contemporary Romance
📚 Smalltown
📚 Forced Proximity
📚 Spice
📚 Grumpy dog
Favorite quotes📖
"This is for my Nonna's cactus, you fucking asshole."
"There’s only one time I swing my hips, ma'am, and it's not when I'm dancing."
"I don't want to remember you, Charlie baby. I want you here. Where you belong."
September 8, 2025
This was everything you would want for a cute, steamy romance! From the start I liked Charlie’s character with her down to earth, funny and sweet personality! But Garrett… oh my! Gorgeous, introverted, sweet, an animal lover (oh Hunter I love him too) everything you would want in a man. I enjoyed the dynamic between them and how they met. The fact that their relationship slowly grew and it wasn’t “insta love” was perfectly done! Their chemistry was written well and the spicy scenes were *chef’s kiss*! Overall a great read and I would definitely love more of Charlie & Garrett!
September 5, 2025
Idk what it was about this story but I just thought it was soo freaking cuteeee. It is really fast paced though which I didn’t mind at all. I really loved both main characters.
You get Garrett the grumpy keeps to himself but turns to pudding with her MMC
& you get Charlie the quirky friendly all smiles and rainbows FMC.
They’re literally perfect for each other, he takes care of her and she brings out a different side to him that no one has seen.
My fave has to be hunter though🤭🤭
(He’s the mmc’c dog) I was really starting to think he was always going to keep his distance with Charlie but he really protected her when her dumb ex tried to get all Macho with her.
Def recommend if you want a fast pace book🫶🏻
Some of my fave quotes
“I don’t want to remember you, Charlie baby,” he bites out. “I want you here. Where you belong.”🫠🫠
“”I’m staying,” I whisper to him. “You’re the home I’ve been searching for.”
You get Garrett the grumpy keeps to himself but turns to pudding with her MMC
& you get Charlie the quirky friendly all smiles and rainbows FMC.
They’re literally perfect for each other, he takes care of her and she brings out a different side to him that no one has seen.
My fave has to be hunter though🤭🤭
(He’s the mmc’c dog) I was really starting to think he was always going to keep his distance with Charlie but he really protected her when her dumb ex tried to get all Macho with her.
Def recommend if you want a fast pace book🫶🏻
Some of my fave quotes
“I don’t want to remember you, Charlie baby,” he bites out. “I want you here. Where you belong.”🫠🫠
“”I’m staying,” I whisper to him. “You’re the home I’ve been searching for.”
September 15, 2025
✨🎃 Small Town Spooks & Second Chances 🎃✨
This was such a cute Halloween novella featuring Garrett, Charlie, and Garrett’s equally grumpy dog, Hunter 🐕👻. A fast, fun read that gave me all the cozy fall vibes with a side of sass.
Charlie’s on the run from her terrible ex who destroyed her plant room 🌱💔. She gets her revenge by trashing his precious Mustang 🚘🔥 (fair’s fair, right?). On her way back home, she ends up stranded in Cedar Hills, where she meets Garrett—the grumpiest man in town 😏.
Next thing you know, Charlie is the unexpected owner of Snake Eyes, the local bar 🍸🃏. Garrett steps in to help, offering his support while pretending not to fall for her… but spoiler alert—he absolutely does. The flirty banter, the bar makeover, the sparks flying everywhere ✨💡—I devoured it all. And Hunter the dog? Peak grumpy sidekick energy. 🐾
Can’t wait for more from this series! 📚💜
🍂 Tropes You’ll Love 🍂
😏 Grumpy x Sunshine 🌞
🏡 Small Town Shenanigans
🛠️ Forced Proximity + Bar Renovations
💘 He Falls First (and hard)
🎖️ Ex-Military Hero
🐶 Loyal (and grumpy) Doggo
🃏 Accidental Bar Owner Vibes
💌 Standalone with Series Potential
#ARCReview #RomanceNovella #GrumpySunshine #SmallTownRomance #HalloweenReads #BookishFall #BookLove #Bookstagram
This was such a cute Halloween novella featuring Garrett, Charlie, and Garrett’s equally grumpy dog, Hunter 🐕👻. A fast, fun read that gave me all the cozy fall vibes with a side of sass.
Charlie’s on the run from her terrible ex who destroyed her plant room 🌱💔. She gets her revenge by trashing his precious Mustang 🚘🔥 (fair’s fair, right?). On her way back home, she ends up stranded in Cedar Hills, where she meets Garrett—the grumpiest man in town 😏.
Next thing you know, Charlie is the unexpected owner of Snake Eyes, the local bar 🍸🃏. Garrett steps in to help, offering his support while pretending not to fall for her… but spoiler alert—he absolutely does. The flirty banter, the bar makeover, the sparks flying everywhere ✨💡—I devoured it all. And Hunter the dog? Peak grumpy sidekick energy. 🐾
Can’t wait for more from this series! 📚💜
🍂 Tropes You’ll Love 🍂
😏 Grumpy x Sunshine 🌞
🏡 Small Town Shenanigans
🛠️ Forced Proximity + Bar Renovations
💘 He Falls First (and hard)
🎖️ Ex-Military Hero
🐶 Loyal (and grumpy) Doggo
🃏 Accidental Bar Owner Vibes
💌 Standalone with Series Potential
#ARCReview #RomanceNovella #GrumpySunshine #SmallTownRomance #HalloweenReads #BookishFall #BookLove #Bookstagram
September 9, 2025
Such a sweet book!!!! (5 ⭐️, 3🌶️) Charlie is a women fed up with her manchild of an ex and needing a change in her life. A long drive and a car accident lead her right to Garrett, an ex-military business owner who doesn’t know that he needs a change. The chemistry is delicious, the yearning is real, and the story is so feel good you won’t want to put it down!
Charlie is a sweet but strong woman who can stand on her own while also leaning on the incredibly strong Garrett if needed! Garrett is a grump who you can’t help but love, especially when he shows his softer side for someone her cares about! I love the body positivity sprinkled throughout the book and the fact that Charlie doesn’t need a man to solve all of her problems, but is willing to accept help as well!
This book is a fun and easy read and I highly recommend it!
Charlie is a sweet but strong woman who can stand on her own while also leaning on the incredibly strong Garrett if needed! Garrett is a grump who you can’t help but love, especially when he shows his softer side for someone her cares about! I love the body positivity sprinkled throughout the book and the fact that Charlie doesn’t need a man to solve all of her problems, but is willing to accept help as well!
This book is a fun and easy read and I highly recommend it!
September 15, 2025
I loved this book so much. It was a short read that was filled with such a sweet story. I LOVED the instant connection between Charlie and Garrett and that there weren’t any big miscommunication tropes in this book, don’t get me wrong I think they can be done well but this story was so refreshing and made it even better that they both fell so quickly and didn’t “do something dumb” to add a third act breakup or anything along those lines. It was short, sweet, and just what I needed just in time for spooky season.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2025
I might be in the minority, but I love a novella. Sometimes you just want the satisfaction of starting and finishing something in a couple hours. Occasionally that means you come across a book that isn't fully developed. This is NOT that. This story had all of it. A solid start (omg Charlie is my hero), good relationship building, and a fantastic ending.
I am so excited for more in this series and from this author!
Thank you, Stevie, for the opportunity to read and review this story early. I ADORED IT!
I am so excited for more in this series and from this author!
Thank you, Stevie, for the opportunity to read and review this story early. I ADORED IT!
September 6, 2025
Oh I just absolutely adored this book! Charlie & Garrett are so perfect together & let’s not forget about Hunter, he pulled through in the end, what a cutie! Such a heartfelt read, I read it all in one go it was that good.
September 6, 2025
Omg I absolutely love it! The spice level was perfect for the story! Garrett and Charlie are absolutely perfect for each other. I think Hunter really stole the spotlight at times loved his grumpiness! I do wish it was more than a Novella.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
Absolutely remarkable!! This is everything I have ever wanted in a classic romance, "hallmark-type" story, BUT with spice - good detailed spice! LOVED it, and the entire synopsis. Such a cute, awe-inspiring, great read that was wonderfully meticulous! Highly recommend
September 8, 2025
5⭐️, 4🌶️ LOVED this book!! I hope there’s more in this series because so far, she’s 2 for 2! Fast paced read but it never feels rushed which is hard to find with shorter books. Definitely wished it was longer but only because I fell in love with the characters and wanted more of them! Enjoyed their love story that had just enough spice to keep things interesting & the spicy was hot! An all around great read, look forward to more!
September 11, 2025
I loved this novella! I want more of their story. I love grumpy/sunshine so much.
September 15, 2025
What a short but fun read! The characters are amazing but my fav is definitely Hunter- cute grumpy German shepherd. The meet cute as there and the forced proximity brought upon by some disastrous events is good. I liked that it was fast paced and the minor drama that occurs. Like the character development and the small town vibes.
October 31, 2025
Cute little Halloween themed novella - short and sweet.
September 8, 2025
Overall this book is a great short read about an antisocial leather worker and a bartender who is passing through town, but while there they both find something in each other they weren't expecting. Charlie and Garretts story is cute with the right amount of spice if looking for something to read.
September 22, 2025
Quick read you won't want to put down.
Charlie is on a mission to get away from her now ex since he destroyed her beloved plant collection. In turn, she ruined his car and was making her way to her brother's place when she got into a little bit of an accident.
Thankfully, Garrett and his dog Hunter hear the commotion and go to investigate. It could be a bear for all he knows.
Even though he's a grumpy guy that doesn't really put much effort into making any relationships in his small town, he feels in his soul that he has to help this beautiful woman that has gracefully crashed into his life.
Please read and see how their story unfolds. It's definitely worth the read!
Charlie is on a mission to get away from her now ex since he destroyed her beloved plant collection. In turn, she ruined his car and was making her way to her brother's place when she got into a little bit of an accident.
Thankfully, Garrett and his dog Hunter hear the commotion and go to investigate. It could be a bear for all he knows.
Even though he's a grumpy guy that doesn't really put much effort into making any relationships in his small town, he feels in his soul that he has to help this beautiful woman that has gracefully crashed into his life.
Please read and see how their story unfolds. It's definitely worth the read!
September 25, 2025
Loved it! Was a great quick read!
Really enjoyed the banter between them! Great read for going into fall 🍂
Tropes:
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
Blurb:
When Charlie discovers her ex has destroyed her treasured plant collection, she does what any woman would do. She fills up the gas tank of his beloved Mustang with expanding foam and flees in the night. But driving across the country during a cold snap ends in disaster when her car skids off the road—heading straight towards a tree.
When Garrett hears an almighty crash in the forest around his home, he knows he has to help. The last thing he expects is to meet the one person on earth who makes him forget just how much he hates everyone else.
After Garrett realizes Charlie can’t afford to repair her car, he offers her a deal; he’ll pay her to refurbish his dad’s old bar—Snake Eyes—to make up the deficit. But the longer she stays, the further he falls. The stolen glances between them have his body igniting with desire, her secret smiles reducing his defenses to ash. But the date of her departure beckons. Soon, she’ll be leaving him behind, but will anything be left of his heart when she does?
In Snake Eyes, a spicy Halloween novella, Charlie discovers that love—and large trees—really can crash into your life when you least expect it.
Really enjoyed the banter between them! Great read for going into fall 🍂
Tropes:
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
Blurb:
When Charlie discovers her ex has destroyed her treasured plant collection, she does what any woman would do. She fills up the gas tank of his beloved Mustang with expanding foam and flees in the night. But driving across the country during a cold snap ends in disaster when her car skids off the road—heading straight towards a tree.
When Garrett hears an almighty crash in the forest around his home, he knows he has to help. The last thing he expects is to meet the one person on earth who makes him forget just how much he hates everyone else.
After Garrett realizes Charlie can’t afford to repair her car, he offers her a deal; he’ll pay her to refurbish his dad’s old bar—Snake Eyes—to make up the deficit. But the longer she stays, the further he falls. The stolen glances between them have his body igniting with desire, her secret smiles reducing his defenses to ash. But the date of her departure beckons. Soon, she’ll be leaving him behind, but will anything be left of his heart when she does?
In Snake Eyes, a spicy Halloween novella, Charlie discovers that love—and large trees—really can crash into your life when you least expect it.
September 22, 2025
After reading this I need more books with dogs in them 😂 this story was so cute and the best spice 🌶️
I hope the Out of His League series continues 🤞🏻
I hope the Out of His League series continues 🤞🏻
September 22, 2025
If you’re on the hunt for a fun little read, this one’s a total gem! It’s short and sweet—perfect for finishing in a day when you just want something wholesome with a sprinkle of spice. It’s got a touch of Halloween vibes, but honestly, it’s the kind of story you can enjoy any time of year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
3.75 rounded to 4 stars for me. Charlie leaving her ex ,after he destroyed her lovely plants was the best decision she made. Going to live with her brother, she have a accident, but to her rescue come Garrett who heard the crash. He helps and take her home, her car needs repair, and Charlie can't afford that. Garrett need someone to restore his father bar Snake Eyes, so he propose to lend money to Charlie for help with the bar.
What Charlie didn't expect is that she starts feeling right at home in the bar, and in Garrett company. What Garrett didn't expect is that he don't want her to leave after bar is restored to former glory.
Will they trust each other and maybe made a home together?
It was quick and steamy romance, I didn't expect to like this story so much, but it was fun and without heavy drama, just what I needed after few thrillers. I hope to read author further work.
Thank you author for arc.
What Charlie didn't expect is that she starts feeling right at home in the bar, and in Garrett company. What Garrett didn't expect is that he don't want her to leave after bar is restored to former glory.
Will they trust each other and maybe made a home together?
It was quick and steamy romance, I didn't expect to like this story so much, but it was fun and without heavy drama, just what I needed after few thrillers. I hope to read author further work.
Thank you author for arc.
September 9, 2025
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - September 22, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• grumpy x sunshine
• forced proximity
• ex-military hero
• small-town setting
• holiday vibes (halloween)
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This is the second book in the Out of His League series but you can totally read it as a standalone. The story follows Charlie, who is fiery and full of life, but after a messy breakup she ends up in a new town where fate throws her straight into Garrett’s path. Garrett is a grumpy, broody ex-military hero who runs his dad’s old bar Snake Eyes with his loyal dog by his side. When Charlie crashes her car, Garrett offers her a deal to stay and help him fix the bar, and that’s when the real fun begins.
I loved how different they are yet how naturally they fit together. Charlie’s sunshine personality was just the sweetest and Garrett’s gruff, protective side made me melt. Their banter had me smiling, the chemistry was strong from the start, and the whole Halloween atmosphere added such a cozy, festive charm to the story. I adored the mix of small-town warmth, grumpy hero vibes, and a touch of spice.
Some moments felt a little rushed and I honestly wanted even more of them together, but overall it was such an addictive, heartwarming, and slightly spooky romance. Perfect for curling up with on a chilly autumn night.
Thank you so much hayling bookstorm for the free ARC!
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - September 22, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• grumpy x sunshine
• forced proximity
• ex-military hero
• small-town setting
• holiday vibes (halloween)
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This is the second book in the Out of His League series but you can totally read it as a standalone. The story follows Charlie, who is fiery and full of life, but after a messy breakup she ends up in a new town where fate throws her straight into Garrett’s path. Garrett is a grumpy, broody ex-military hero who runs his dad’s old bar Snake Eyes with his loyal dog by his side. When Charlie crashes her car, Garrett offers her a deal to stay and help him fix the bar, and that’s when the real fun begins.
I loved how different they are yet how naturally they fit together. Charlie’s sunshine personality was just the sweetest and Garrett’s gruff, protective side made me melt. Their banter had me smiling, the chemistry was strong from the start, and the whole Halloween atmosphere added such a cozy, festive charm to the story. I adored the mix of small-town warmth, grumpy hero vibes, and a touch of spice.
Some moments felt a little rushed and I honestly wanted even more of them together, but overall it was such an addictive, heartwarming, and slightly spooky romance. Perfect for curling up with on a chilly autumn night.
Thank you so much hayling bookstorm for the free ARC!
September 23, 2025
A really great story that was quickly paced but not rushed. Two really endearing people who were destined to meet and complemented each other perfectly. It's not easy to fully flesh out characters in a shorter page count but this is exactly what Stevie does in this novella.
Charlie is headed to her hometown after a volatile breakup with her boyfriend. She's in desperate need of a new start and she's hoping to recenter her life in the familiarity of her hometown. But this new path she's taking has an unexpected detour.
Garrett is a bit of a recluse. His years in the military have left him hardened with no patience for interacting with people and all their drama. He has his dog, his leather works shop, rent money from the town bar and his cozy house on the edge of town. What more does a man who wants to be left alone need?
Charlie's sunshine attitude is the perfect foil to Garrett's grumpiness. I loved how they seemed to have an immediate connection and brought the best of each other out. Garrett is thought of around town as unapproachable, which is exactly what he wants. It's Charlie alone who can coax Garrett out of his shell and allows only her to see the man he truly is. This is one of my most favorite dynamics and Stevie wrote it so well!
What I really appreciated was how we were given time for these two to fall in love. Their initial forced proximity didn't immediately lead to a tangle in the sheets. They became friends first and bonded over a common goal. BUT don't get me wrong. These two have a very strong attraction that slowly builds up to a breaking point and when that happens, it's explosive.
What to expect:
• Small Town
• Fall Vibes
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Ex-Military Hero (and dog)
• He falls first
• Period Care
• Epic "Fu€k it" moment
• 3 intimate encounters that are smokin hot!
I received an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charlie is headed to her hometown after a volatile breakup with her boyfriend. She's in desperate need of a new start and she's hoping to recenter her life in the familiarity of her hometown. But this new path she's taking has an unexpected detour.
Garrett is a bit of a recluse. His years in the military have left him hardened with no patience for interacting with people and all their drama. He has his dog, his leather works shop, rent money from the town bar and his cozy house on the edge of town. What more does a man who wants to be left alone need?
Charlie's sunshine attitude is the perfect foil to Garrett's grumpiness. I loved how they seemed to have an immediate connection and brought the best of each other out. Garrett is thought of around town as unapproachable, which is exactly what he wants. It's Charlie alone who can coax Garrett out of his shell and allows only her to see the man he truly is. This is one of my most favorite dynamics and Stevie wrote it so well!
What I really appreciated was how we were given time for these two to fall in love. Their initial forced proximity didn't immediately lead to a tangle in the sheets. They became friends first and bonded over a common goal. BUT don't get me wrong. These two have a very strong attraction that slowly builds up to a breaking point and when that happens, it's explosive.
What to expect:
• Small Town
• Fall Vibes
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Ex-Military Hero (and dog)
• He falls first
• Period Care
• Epic "Fu€k it" moment
• 3 intimate encounters that are smokin hot!
I received an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 18, 2025
ARC Review
"Snake Eyes"
Out of His League # 2
by Stevie Sparks
Tropes:
🎃The longer she stays, the further he falls
Grumpy x Sunshine🦇
🎃 Forced proximity
Small town romance🦇
🎃He falls first
He hates everyone but her🦇
🎃Ex-military hero
His dog is as grumpy as he is🦇
Such a sweet and spicy novella: it starts sweet and then bam here comes the spice 🌶️
Read it in a heartbeat; it's addictive and funny and... have I mentioned the spice? Because the spice spices in this small town. What is it with small towns, wow 🤫
Charlie and Garrett and Hunter-dog's story is beautifully written.
And that Red quote down there? Oh, it will stay with me 🔥
Thank you to the author and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd for this ARC.
---
some my favorite quotes:
"You're not a serial killer, right?"
I nod. "I'm not a serial killer."
For a brief moment, her body is against mine - and it feels like it's made to be there.
those bashful baby blues staring straight into my soul.
I think I want you to bend me over the nearest hard surface, please and thank you.
My brain is spellbound by the feeling of his skin against mine.
The confession is so sweet it almost breaks me into a million tiny pieces.
"You...you seem to skirt under my defenses."
I'm Little Red Riding Hood and he's about to devour me whole.
"I want to feel you for days."
"I'm staying", I whisper to him. "You´re the home I´ve been searching for."
"Snake Eyes"
Out of His League # 2
by Stevie Sparks
Tropes:
🎃The longer she stays, the further he falls
Grumpy x Sunshine🦇
🎃 Forced proximity
Small town romance🦇
🎃He falls first
He hates everyone but her🦇
🎃Ex-military hero
His dog is as grumpy as he is🦇
Such a sweet and spicy novella: it starts sweet and then bam here comes the spice 🌶️
Read it in a heartbeat; it's addictive and funny and... have I mentioned the spice? Because the spice spices in this small town. What is it with small towns, wow 🤫
Charlie and Garrett and Hunter-dog's story is beautifully written.
And that Red quote down there? Oh, it will stay with me 🔥
Thank you to the author and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd for this ARC.
---
some my favorite quotes:
"You're not a serial killer, right?"
I nod. "I'm not a serial killer."
For a brief moment, her body is against mine - and it feels like it's made to be there.
those bashful baby blues staring straight into my soul.
I think I want you to bend me over the nearest hard surface, please and thank you.
My brain is spellbound by the feeling of his skin against mine.
The confession is so sweet it almost breaks me into a million tiny pieces.
"You...you seem to skirt under my defenses."
I'm Little Red Riding Hood and he's about to devour me whole.
"I want to feel you for days."
"I'm staying", I whisper to him. "You´re the home I´ve been searching for."
September 23, 2025
The longer she stays, the further he falls..
“This is for my Nonna’s cactus, you fxkn asshole.”
I absolutely loved this novella.
It was placed in Cedar Hills, a small town with charm. Charlie went through a bad breakup and fled her home to find peace and to heal.
Instead she crashed into Cedar Hills, literally and figuratively. Garrett saves the day and Charlie’s heart. The story is a quick paced read and it was perfectly done. I loved how he came into the story and fell for her instantly.
He was a grumpy brute not waiting for his sunshine but got it anyways. He was content with his grumpy dog, his business and his simple life.
Charlie was offered an opportunity to help his fix Garrett’s father’s bar “Snake Eyes” and it was an offer she couldn’t resist. She was a bartender who had an obsession with plants and felt at home helping him.
She was the breath of fresh air he needed and the town. Absolutely loved everything about this story and I would read so much about them!!
Snake Eyes is out now!!!
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
“This is for my Nonna’s cactus, you fxkn asshole.”
I absolutely loved this novella.
It was placed in Cedar Hills, a small town with charm. Charlie went through a bad breakup and fled her home to find peace and to heal.
Instead she crashed into Cedar Hills, literally and figuratively. Garrett saves the day and Charlie’s heart. The story is a quick paced read and it was perfectly done. I loved how he came into the story and fell for her instantly.
He was a grumpy brute not waiting for his sunshine but got it anyways. He was content with his grumpy dog, his business and his simple life.
Charlie was offered an opportunity to help his fix Garrett’s father’s bar “Snake Eyes” and it was an offer she couldn’t resist. She was a bartender who had an obsession with plants and felt at home helping him.
She was the breath of fresh air he needed and the town. Absolutely loved everything about this story and I would read so much about them!!
Snake Eyes is out now!!!
🎃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🦇 Forced proximity
🎃 Small town romance
🦇 He falls first
🎃 He hates everyone but her
🦇 Ex-military hero
🎃 His dog is as grumpy as he is
🦇 Can be read as a standalone
September 18, 2025
Snake Eyes is the kind of small-town, dog-friendly romcom I turn to when I want something light and satisfying. After a messy breakup that destroys her houseplant collection (no, really), Charlie crashes her car and gets rescued by Garrett and Hunter, an unlikely trio that becomes the heart of the book.
The romance is soft and earnest: Garrett, a reserved man who unexpectedly dotes with hot chocolate and fried chicken, and Charlie, a bright force of nature who slowly peels back his armor. Their banter is cute, the found-family vibe lands, and Hunter is basically the MVP.
That said, the book’s brisk pace and shorter length kept me from fully sinking into the characters’ pasts. I would’ve loved more detail on why they’re so guarded and more scenes to marinate in the relationship. Still if you’re after a quick, cozy read with heart (and a giant dog), this will do the trick.
Favorite line:
“Usually I’m desperate to be alone. To finally be able to relax. You’re the first person I’ve ever met who I feel alone with, if that makes sense.”
Would recommend for fans of sweet, short contemporaries, grumpy/sunshine pairings, and dog-filled love stories.
The romance is soft and earnest: Garrett, a reserved man who unexpectedly dotes with hot chocolate and fried chicken, and Charlie, a bright force of nature who slowly peels back his armor. Their banter is cute, the found-family vibe lands, and Hunter is basically the MVP.
That said, the book’s brisk pace and shorter length kept me from fully sinking into the characters’ pasts. I would’ve loved more detail on why they’re so guarded and more scenes to marinate in the relationship. Still if you’re after a quick, cozy read with heart (and a giant dog), this will do the trick.
Favorite line:
“Usually I’m desperate to be alone. To finally be able to relax. You’re the first person I’ve ever met who I feel alone with, if that makes sense.”
Would recommend for fans of sweet, short contemporaries, grumpy/sunshine pairings, and dog-filled love stories.
September 19, 2025
Charlie is a 28 year old bartender who leaves her apartment and boyfriend behind when he destroys her beloved plants in a hissy fit because he can’t pick his big boy panties up off the floor of their apartment. On her way to her childhood home, Charlie gets in a nasty accident right outside the cabin in the woods of Garrett, the introverted recluse of the small town of Cedar Hills.
Overall, this was a cute read. I liked the premise, and for a novella, it had a lot of depth to the story. Often, novellas seem to be rushed and unrealistic when two characters fall in love over 100+ pages, but the timeline was realistic and well plotted over the 133 page book. I really enjoyed the relationship arc of Charlie and Garrett, but let’s be honest, Hunter stole the show. (The german Shepard who’s just as grumpy as his handler.)
I did deduct one star because there are some graphic descriptions during some spicy scenes of the female body that I felt were unnecessary to the story, and definitely took away from the “mood” of the story.
Overall, this was a cute read. I liked the premise, and for a novella, it had a lot of depth to the story. Often, novellas seem to be rushed and unrealistic when two characters fall in love over 100+ pages, but the timeline was realistic and well plotted over the 133 page book. I really enjoyed the relationship arc of Charlie and Garrett, but let’s be honest, Hunter stole the show. (The german Shepard who’s just as grumpy as his handler.)
I did deduct one star because there are some graphic descriptions during some spicy scenes of the female body that I felt were unnecessary to the story, and definitely took away from the “mood” of the story.
October 31, 2025
A spicy, heart-warming novella worth the read!
From the moment Charlie’s life takes a sharp turn — her treasured plants destroyed by her ex, a car crash in the dead of night — you're drawn into a story that’s equal parts fiery, emotional, and sweet.
Garrett, the brooding ex-military man who wants nothing to do with people, especially not distractions like Charlie. When he finds her stranded, vulnerable, and in deeper trouble than she first realizes, he offers a lifeline: refurbish his dad’s old bar, Snake Eyes, to make up the damage. But of course, things get complicated — feelings grow, hearts risk opening, and the date she plans to leave looms.
The forced-proximity setup works beautifully, allowing their connection to grow naturally from tension to tenderness. Charlie’s bright, resilient spirit perfectly balances Garrett’s guarded and grumpy demeanor, making their interactions spark with chemistry and charm.
The Halloween atmosphere and the setting of Snake Eyes bar add an extra layer of coziness and charm to the story, making it a perfect autumn read.
From the moment Charlie’s life takes a sharp turn — her treasured plants destroyed by her ex, a car crash in the dead of night — you're drawn into a story that’s equal parts fiery, emotional, and sweet.
Garrett, the brooding ex-military man who wants nothing to do with people, especially not distractions like Charlie. When he finds her stranded, vulnerable, and in deeper trouble than she first realizes, he offers a lifeline: refurbish his dad’s old bar, Snake Eyes, to make up the damage. But of course, things get complicated — feelings grow, hearts risk opening, and the date she plans to leave looms.
The forced-proximity setup works beautifully, allowing their connection to grow naturally from tension to tenderness. Charlie’s bright, resilient spirit perfectly balances Garrett’s guarded and grumpy demeanor, making their interactions spark with chemistry and charm.
The Halloween atmosphere and the setting of Snake Eyes bar add an extra layer of coziness and charm to the story, making it a perfect autumn read.
November 1, 2025
4.5 stars
Thank you, Hayling Bookstorm LTD and Stevie Sparks, for the opportunity to read this eARC.
After leaving a broken-down relationship with very little of her belongings, Charlie finds herself stuck in the middle of nowhere in her crashed car. She was just trying to make it home to her estranged brother. How does she even get into these messes?! But then she's rescued by a tall, handsome stranger and his dog. Trusting Garrett not to murder her in her sleep, she takes up his offer to stay with him and his dog, Hunter, until her car can be fixed. Little does she realise, this might be the answer to a lot of other things in her life as well.
Snake Eyes is a cute, sexy Novella, where the fmc finally ends up in the right place, right time. There's found family, learning to trust, grumpy mmc x sunshine fmc. There's growth, love, and figuring things out. This was my first time reading a book by Stevie, and I really enjoyed it. Even though it's short, there's enough description in it that you still feel like you're there and it's not overwhelming.
Thank you, Hayling Bookstorm LTD and Stevie Sparks, for the opportunity to read this eARC.
After leaving a broken-down relationship with very little of her belongings, Charlie finds herself stuck in the middle of nowhere in her crashed car. She was just trying to make it home to her estranged brother. How does she even get into these messes?! But then she's rescued by a tall, handsome stranger and his dog. Trusting Garrett not to murder her in her sleep, she takes up his offer to stay with him and his dog, Hunter, until her car can be fixed. Little does she realise, this might be the answer to a lot of other things in her life as well.
Snake Eyes is a cute, sexy Novella, where the fmc finally ends up in the right place, right time. There's found family, learning to trust, grumpy mmc x sunshine fmc. There's growth, love, and figuring things out. This was my first time reading a book by Stevie, and I really enjoyed it. Even though it's short, there's enough description in it that you still feel like you're there and it's not overwhelming.
September 12, 2025
ARC Review
4⭐️ Spice 3/5 🌶️
Charlie, a bartender and plant fanatic, meets Garrett, a grumpy anti-social military vet when she crashes her car near his house. Stuck with no where to go and no money to fix her car she helps fix up the Snake Eyes bar in exchange for money to fix her car.
I thought this was a great short and spicy contemporary romance. I love a he falls first romance and grumpy sunshine vibes. My only complaints are I wish it was longer so we could explore more of their characters’ backgrounds and the evolution of their relationship. It felt a little instant romance. The spicy scenes were well written which isn’t always easy to do. I love the military vet representation and a canine sidekick is always welcomed.
I recommend this book for someone looking for a quick, spicy contemporary read. Also I you like the tropes grumpy x sunshine, he falls first, and forced proximity.
4⭐️ Spice 3/5 🌶️
Charlie, a bartender and plant fanatic, meets Garrett, a grumpy anti-social military vet when she crashes her car near his house. Stuck with no where to go and no money to fix her car she helps fix up the Snake Eyes bar in exchange for money to fix her car.
I thought this was a great short and spicy contemporary romance. I love a he falls first romance and grumpy sunshine vibes. My only complaints are I wish it was longer so we could explore more of their characters’ backgrounds and the evolution of their relationship. It felt a little instant romance. The spicy scenes were well written which isn’t always easy to do. I love the military vet representation and a canine sidekick is always welcomed.
I recommend this book for someone looking for a quick, spicy contemporary read. Also I you like the tropes grumpy x sunshine, he falls first, and forced proximity.
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