Grumpy Valentine

by D.L. White

The last thing tech developer Opal Richardson needs while launching a groundbreaking tech platform is a distraction. Especially not Sterling Carter, whose co-working space sits right across the courtyard from hers. He’s sexy, charming..and keeps showing up with an uncanny ability to climb right over her carefully constructed walls.

Sterling Carter's recent return to Atlanta was supposed to be about launching his PR firm, not falling for the tall, stunning, sharp-tongued woman who challenges him from day one. Despite their instant chemistry, Opal's painful past makes her hesitant to mix business with pleasure.

When a severe storm traps them together, their connection becomes impossible to ignore, sparking a passionate encounter that could either heal her wounds or break her heart completely.

Set in Atlanta's bustling tech scene, GRUMPY VALENTINE is a steamy workplace romance where love moves at startup speed.

Audiobook

Published February 14, 2025

About the author

DL White writes romance novels that celebrate Black love across multiple series, including the Ruby's Novels, Black Diamond Bay collection, and Potter Lake Small Town Romance. Her fifteen-plus titles offer rich, nuanced relationships that center Black characters. Through The Books by DL White Bookcast, she shares her current reads and writing updates. An Atlanta-based author and Executive Administrative Assistant, White finds inspiration from lakeshores to white sand beaches. When she's not writing, you'll find her chasing the perfect Sunday brunch or enjoying a great cup of coffee.

Browse, read, and buy her work at BooksByDLWhite.com.

Reviews

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This quick read delivered all the feels with a side of self-awareness and a double helping of snark and humor!

Turn-about is fair play and this time the woman’s the grump, and the MMC is ALL sunshine and smiles.

Tech developer Opal Richardson has been burned personally and professionally by love so do not even bring the subject up. Sterling Carter is happy to be back in his hometown of Atlanta after the chaos of corporate New York. He’s weeks away from launching his own PR firm and a relationship isn’t on his radar.

Yet, there’s just something about the abrasive Opal.

And Opal could focus on completing her industry-changing app if Sterling weren’t sex-on-legs… and a genuinely decent man.

It takes Opal’s go-big-or-go-home BFF, Asia, to kick things into high gear, and I’m so glad she did! While her machinations eventually leads to Opal and Sterling spending time alone, it also opens the door to true friendship and a connection that surprises them both.

The open communication in Grumpy Valentine is a key element and makes it a memorable read. Sometimes romance novels get bogged down in the running away and avoidance of lead characters. Seeing friends, adult children/parents, siblings, and lovers have honest, positive conversations the way adults do irl was welcome and refreshing!

Sterling’s a fun character. Not syrupy sweet, just genuine and matter-of-fact. No game… okay, not much, and no guile. The relationship he has with his older brother reminds me of my own brothers. Spot on! Opal is a strong, focused, intelligent young woman, but I didn’t think she and I were going to make it to the end of the story as friends. However, after two key conversations and some self-introspection, she stepped up like the boss chick I believed her to be.

Strong plot and great writing make this a must-read!

Enjoy!

[Gwendolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun, fast-paced novella to read. I liked that Sterling was feeling Opal from the beginning. Opal took a while, catching up to how Sterling felt about her. He knew and acknowledged that she was the one for him.

Now, if only Opal could stop letting her ex live rent-free in her head. She had to step outside of her fear box and take a leap of faith and trust.

I liked her friend Asia, who kept it real and didn't stutter when she had something to say. Sterling's brother Sedrick was hilarious as well. He was that big brother you needed.

[Gemini · Rating 5 out of 5]

He’s a Keeper

This book was just what I needed. It was fun and flirty. The couple oozed Black excellence. I loved them individually and collectively. I wanted to shake Opal a time or two, but I totally understand her demeanor. Sterling was the bomb. He was confident and considerate. I loved him. I appreciated the short story format. They got right to the point with no wasted moments. I really enjoyed this read.

[Shahara’Tova · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute and cozy read! Opal and Sterling are perfect for each other, and I wish there was more to their story. I love how DL White gives us just enough character development and plot in her novellas to draw us without the story dragging. There’s just enough spice and romance to keep things very interesting. Loved it!

[Jessica Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this. I was starting to get ticked off at Opal for how she treated Sterling and at him for being so dang nice about it (LOL) but all was redeemed. I loved their rapport. And Sedrick was a hoot. Loved Asia. Just another good read from this author.

[Dee Pierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cute quick read. Opal holding on to hurt and betrayal from a previous relationship throwing herself into work. Sterling unsure of his next moves in his personal life. But when the right circumstances and person comes along. The missing pieces fall into place for both.