Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Content Advisory #8

He's A Mean One

Rate this book
This is book eight in the Content Advisory Series! Summary coming soon!

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 9, 2025

177 people are currently reading
386 people want to read

About the author

Lani Lynn Vale

162 books7,262 followers
Lani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
435 (65%)
4 stars
153 (23%)
3 stars
63 (9%)
2 stars
7 (1%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
Profile Image for Read All About It.
2,028 reviews23 followers
December 9, 2025
Truth Tellers!!

Jasper and Calliope are like oil and water. They don't mix well or do they?

Jasper has been watching her for years but she's to young. They have a angsty rivalry in everything they do but he's always there.

Calliope had a horrible childhood. She rose above it for her siblings.

These two are at odds about everything. In the end love prevails so hold on to your hats cause this is one wild ride to HEA.
Profile Image for Shelley C.
2,934 reviews62 followers
November 29, 2025
Jasper and Calliope🥰

Jasper and Calliope are up next in He’s a Mean One and I believe this is the last book in the Content Advisory series, which makes me sad as I really enjoyed getting to know all these characters🙌

Jasper is a part of the Truth Tellers MC and when he meets Calliope, years earlier - he knows she is too young for him. As the years progress though, he keeps stepping up for her in the hopes she will see him as more. Calliope had a tough upbringing, having to become an adult earlier than most teenagers to contribute and help her younger siblings. She has no time for BS and has no filter - I seriously want to be Calliope when I grow up☺️

Loved it and looking forward to the new series coming out in 2026❣️ I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review😍

Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,588 reviews77 followers
December 10, 2025
5 star

This story has pain, secrets, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first:
Grumpy Sunshine (Content Advisory, #1)
Look at Her and Die (Content Advisory, #2)
Enemies to Lovers (Content Advisory, #3)
Other Woman Drama (Content Advisory, #4)
Mistaken Identity (Content Advisory #5)
Ugly Duckling (Content Advisory #6)
Forced Proximity (Content Advisory #7)


This is Calliope and Jasper’s story. If you read the other books in this series, you have met both Jasper and Calliope. We have been waiting for Jasper for a long time. You finally get some answers as to what happened to him and how it changed his life. Calliope is a little crazy and knows just what she wants. Can Jasper resist the pull that she has on him? Or will all the sparks and banter have chasing after each other? Can they have a future when the age gap is so big? Or does age not matter when they love each other?


I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20k reviews255 followers
December 9, 2025
This is the 8th book in this phenomenal series, and this is a bittersweet tale as it is the end of a series.
Jasper has tried his best to ignore Calliope, but now they are neighbors, and she has just graduated and looking for her dream job. A freak snowstorm had Jasper and Calli stranded together.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, suspense, intrigue, heartbreak, romance, humour, witty banter, forced proximity, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Crystal LoCicero.
1,003 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2025
2.5 stars

I have been waiting for Jasper to fall in love for awhile. His families story was a tear jerker and it's easy to root for him. Calli, the grumpy gal she is. To know her is to love her. After reading her sister's book, I wanted her to get a hea too. You would think with 2 mc's that I was rooting for and really liked this would be an easy, enjoyable read, but it fell flat.

The relationship between the mcs was barely there. We saw the mmc pine for the fmc but then snap at her and like to see her riled up. It felt like the grown up verson of that stupid adage 'if a boy is mean to you it means he likes you'. I just wish we got to see more of them have real talks and time together.

I aslo would have loved a little more growth with the fmc realizing that her family loves and likes her.

I guess I just wanted more. I think that I am goong to take a break from this author. My nostalgia can't even make up for the lack of storytelling in these books.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,875 reviews212 followers
December 9, 2025


AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU / B&N / KOBO / APPLE BOOKS / UNIVERSAL

Jasper's been fascinated with Calliope (Callie) for years, but she was always too young for him to even think of doing anything about it. She's an adult now, but they have a heated rivalry, so those feelings aren't going to be acted on. Or aren't they? He can't seem to keep from rescuing her, even though she's so stubborn she rejects his help most of the time. Not to mention she keeps doing things like intercepting his DoorDash orders, and stealing his deliveries. These two enemies aren't really doing a very good job of hiding their more than contemptuous feelings.



Callie's had a hard life, just as hard as Jasper's, and it shows. She's sarcastic, she's kinda mean, but she has a soft heart that she only shows to the people she loves. And when she loves, she loves hard. Jasper would only be so lucky to be one of those people. And he just may be that lucky, if he can show her how he really feels, that he doesn't hate her the way she thinks he does.



Callie and Jasper are pure snark, all wit, with heart and complex layers. Their neighborly prank war is comedy - her intercepting his DoorDash deliveries and having to eat all Mexican because that's what he always ordered - so freaking hilarious! But beneath the humor and snark of course, lay very real emotion that neither acknowledged at first, and it's that emotion that really kept me reading. I love it when broken meets broken and they fit together perfectly. That's how Callie and Jasper fit - perfectly. Their pain called to each other's, and when they came together they helped each other heal a bit. I haven't read this entire series, but I've read enough to know that this world Lani's created isn't easy, it's not very pretty, but it's got a lot of heart. This holiday love story marks the end of the Content Advisory series, which is pretty sad, but wow, what a spectacular way to end.



ARC provided by Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.

Review Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub | StoryGraph | Linktree
Profile Image for Jody.
2,089 reviews60 followers
December 9, 2025
Ms. Vale never lets me down when it comes to her romantic pairings and her depiction of found families in the MC world! And this book is no exception! This book brings readers back to the men and women of the Truth Tellers MC to wrap up their series, while giving us hints of what's to come next in a story that pulled at my heartstrings…while leaving me satisfied with a smile on my face.

Calliope was young when we first saw her, a young girl struggling to keep her family together through working many jobs and trusting only herself. It made her hard to like at first, but with this book readers see a more mature lady. She actually opens up about herself, and her desperate life choices, and it endeared her to me. She's grown into a survivor, someone who tells it like it is, and I found her the perfect other half to Jasper to make him whole.

Jasper's a dark and brooding part of the MC, weighed down by a past that left him scarred inside and out. He embraces his loneliness, but when it comes to Callie, he's captivated. Her young age at their first meeting unfortunately kept him holding back, watching over her from afar. When they become neighbors though, everything changes in a journey of funny and heartfelt banter, along with playful exchanges that were flirty and teeming with sexual tension. Jasper saw past Callie's grumpiness to bring out her softer side in a discovery that warmed my heart. She too saw past his obvious scars, accepting him wholeheartedly despite his own inferiority issues.

Together they're a perfectly imperfect couple. They appeared to be opposites but they ultimately fit together beautifully in a tale full of fun and flirty banter, steamy encounters, and moments of festivities and frivolities. The feeling of the holiday adds a bit of extra warmth to this fast-paced story that kept me eagerly turning the pages, wrapping things up with a big bow of love and HEA! From start to finish this was a well-crafted series, with unforgettable characters that left a lasting impression, and I'm left greatly anticipating what Ms. Vale has planned for readers next.
Profile Image for Kodie Mackay.
1,196 reviews69 followers
December 9, 2025
Oh my sweet Jasper.

Jasper's story has been highly anticipated and did not disappoint. Coming from someone who's read every release as they have been released... his story was one that had me curious when a young man tried to rob a store whilst a cop was there, with his kids also hiding in the back of his stolen car. Jasper was the one of those kids and sadly his journey didn't get easier. I don't think my heart could of broke more and then Lani stamped on it.

But baby he is back. And the nurse is his bestie.

Jasper is broken with all sharp edges and fire. Yet calliope has him feeling things he shouldn't. Wanting things he can't. His stubborn surly ways. His overprotective nature. His love for his special circle. Everything about Jasper had me loving him more.

Calliope appeared to be a less than desirable character but there is more layers to her than the bitter teen fulled with anger. I mean yes she is blunt and pays little attention to those that don't matter. But she loves hard and protects harder. Shes snarky but funny and that sweet side? Oh it's perfection.

I loved them both. They butted heads until they clashed together and from that moment they were drowning in one another. The tension, the chemistry.. the snarky bickering and the banter .. I loved it all.

As per Lani just gives me all rhe side characters I need with all the love laughter and forced experiences no one wants. It's a trip for sure and one o wont forget. Jasper's journey brought all the emotion perfectly wrapping another phenomenal series up with a much loved character who deserved his HEA.
Now ...

GIVE ME THE NEW SERIEA PULEEEZ!!!!!!
Profile Image for Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads).
2,356 reviews102 followers
December 7, 2025
4 She’s a Stubborn Girl Stars!!

This is the final book in this amazing series and with this story we’re getting Callie and Jasper’s story. We’ve met both of these characters throughout this series and to say they’ve each experienced challenges would be putting it mildly to say the least. They’ve also been attracted to each other since the day they met… the problem is that there’s a big age gap between them and a few Truth Teller brothers and her sister standing between them. However, this book changes it all!

I loved their self-started war with each other where Christmas decorations became a “thing”, confiscating food and mail and just an all-out stubbornness on her part refusing to accept help when he’s right there. I have to say I admire her in how she does whatever’s needed for her family sometimes without them really being aware of the lengths she was going to. When things come out, or when she finally starts revealing parts of herself to Jasper, my heart broke a little.

Jasper, aka Hush, has been to through more than most people could endure. He definitely never thought he’d find love and especially with Callie. As much of a difference there is in their ages, it just works. They truly are each other’s other half. Along the way to them becoming who they’re supposed to be as a couple, we’re given some suspense, laugh out loud moments, steamy sexy times and love filled moments with babies, children, siblings and a brotherhood that goes beyond blood relations. It’s the perfect ending to this series and hints of what’s to come next.
Profile Image for Sarah Slusarczyk .
583 reviews
December 8, 2025
The last and final book in the Content Advisory series is here with He’s a Mean One. Book eight in the series features Jasper and Calliope. As always I recommend reading a series in order to get the most out of it, but for the Content Advisory series each book can be read as a standalone in the interconnected series.

Jasper AKA “Hush” is a member of the Truth Tellers MC and meets Calliope at the wrong time in his life. She is years younger than he is, and still suffering from the trauma she experienced, but Jasper knows what he wants and is ready to play the long game. As time goes on, Jasper becomes a norm in Calli's life and the two slowly build what I like to think of as a love-hate relationship. More love than hate for sure. These two have been put through the ringer, Callie and her upbringing, and Jasper with the fire and the scars that it left him with. Together they work in a way that feeds the parts of them that are missing. Two people that couldn't be more different, like oil and water, but love each other so fiercely.

What a fast paced, spicy romance. For something so quick, He’s so mean is filled with giggly moments, spicy sexy time, and shared times of love with each other and family. One of the best things this author highlights is that meaningful and lasting bonds of love and family aren’t always with the ones you're born into but the ones that you meet and choose to make part of your life.

3.8 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️

Tropes:

🎅🏻 MC Romance
🎅🏻 Age Gap
🎅🏻 Found Family
🎅🏻 Frenemies-Lovers
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,271 reviews29 followers
December 9, 2025
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I loved this book. Its a fun story and is pretty light reading. I also loved that this book has recurring characters from the authors other series. Both Callie and Jasper come from past series and we get to see the characters from those series, which is pretty fun. This is a really fun book from beginning to ending. Its actually really light reading from an author who doesn't usually do light reading.

Jasper and Callie are neighbors who hate each other. They steal each other decorations, food etc. But truly they like each other but are a bit of adversaries. Mostly because they like each other and are stuck in a forbidden romance. He is close to 40 and she is in her early 20's.

This book is very slow burn but when it gets going well it gets very HOT!! Callie and Jasper are very much Beauty and her Beast.Jasper has very bad burns, his getting burned is tied into the authors Crossfit series. And while he is healed, he has a lot of scarring.

Callie is young and beautiful but also she has a mouth on her and is no retiring miss. She tells it how it is and doesn't let anyone get in her way. She is caring and loves her siblings while she also thinks she is a lot for anyone.

This book was awesome. I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,419 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2025
I can’t believe this was the last one in the series. I loved each one of these books. Every book just got better and better. Jasper and Calliope was definitely a favourite as well.

I have to say Calliope was not my favourite when we met her in her sister’s story, but she definitely grew on me. Now that she is older you actually got to understand her and why she is the way she is. And this version of her was definitely my favourite.

Jasper went through so much. Now his just living his life. Having decoration wars with the hot girl next door. The same girl he has had a thing for, for five years. Keeping his distance, so why is the always the one going out to help her when she is stranded…

Calliope doesn’t need anyone. She just graduated and now looking for her dream job. In the meantime, she’s working where ever she can, and helping her big sister with her kids. And trying to stay away from her hot next door neighbour.

But fate seems to get involved and before you know it they cant seem to stay away from each other.
I loved their story. From the start I just wanted them to get their happily ever after. Their story was heart-breaking, swoony and their chemistry was explosive. Going to miss the Truth Teller MC 😊

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
30 reviews
December 17, 2025
Every December since I discovered Lani Lynn Vale has brought the fire and written a banger of a book! You first meet Jasper as a baby in a previous series. He loses his father in the Madd Fit Series. You see his sister fall in love in "Always Someone's Monster" and he's brought back to life to see her get married. It's safe to say we've been waiting to see Jasper get his HEA. Calliope is one misunderstood teen when you first meet her in her sister Searcy's book. She's very intelligent but appears to be more trouble than she's worth. Add in the age gap, Jasper has a hard time letting himself love her.
Their story is a well written one with only minor conflict and issues. Calliope is strong, intelligent, and independent. Often misunderstood, she protects herself by continuing to be herself, without apology. You can feel the loneliness coming off her in waves and you want her to find her people. Jasper is someone who has endured a lot of physical trauma from the blast and allowed himself to find his place but it also feels like he keeps himself at arms length a little bit.
In the end they fall in love and find their happiness. I really enjoyed reading their story and again, another Christmas Banger from Lani!
Profile Image for thehotmesslibrary.
824 reviews21 followers
December 2, 2025
He’s a Mean One by Lani Lynn Vale is book 8 in the Content Advisory series and boy is it another good read from this author. The book focuses on Jasper and Calliope, two characters that love to get under each other’s skin, but there is much more to their relationship than that! Because of Cali’s age, Jasper has always stepped back from her, thinking her too immature and young for him, but little does he know that she has a good head on her shoulders, and she can see past what Jasper thinks are his ‘imperfections’. I also loved the shenanigans that the characters get up too, especially with Cali stealing Jasper’s takeout which is hilarious.

As with all books in this series, there’s enough drama to keep you going, some sexy scenes and some fantastic characters that keep you wanting to turn the pages. Another great read!

ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,217 reviews60 followers
December 9, 2025
When a story grips you from the very first page and refuses to let go, you know you’re in the hands of a master—and Lani Lynn Vale proves it yet again.

I for one have been eagerly waiting for no-nonsense, “I want to be her when I grow up” Calliope to finally get her story, and I just knew Lani Lynn Vale would not disappoint. And I was right.

Jasper Madden may be the resident grump in He’s A Mean One (Content Advisory Book 8), but this so-called mean one meets his match—and then some—in Calliope. For five long years he kept his distance, convinced she was too young and he was too damaged. But now? Now the timing is right, the sparks are instant, and the chemistry is explosive.

What follows is a fast-paced, emotional, fiery ride filled with that perfect Lani Lynn Vale banter we all live for. Jasper and Calliope’s journey to their HEA feels perfectly tailored to who they are as individuals and who they become together—equal parts heartfelt, tense, swoony, and completely addictive.

Another knockout addition to the series, and a couple who absolutely deserved their moment to shine.
Profile Image for Storied Conversation.
608 reviews668 followers
December 9, 2025
Jasper’s story has been a long time coming, and it was worth every second of the wait. We’ve watched him grow from a hungry, abandoned baby in [book: Coup de Grace, to a beloved side character in Jerk It and Always Someone’s Monster, and finally into the man who deserved this emotionally rich, beautifully satisfying happily ever after.

What I loved most is how real Jasper and Calliope feel—flawed, bruised by life, stubborn, and yet absolutely meant for each other. Their neighborly antics had me cackling (the Christmas decorations! the food stealing!), but the depth underneath their banter is what truly hit home. They see through each other’s scars and love each other anyway.

Calliope surprised me in the best way after her bratty introduction in Look at Her and Die—she’s grown, hardened, matured, and become someone strong in ways she doesn’t always realize. Jasper never stood a chance.

This was the perfect finale to the series: emotional, funny, heartfelt, and healing. I’m already counting the days until the next series begins.
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,644 reviews36 followers
October 26, 2025
Jasper & Calliope really like to get under each other's skin. 😄 But they also are always there for each other & I liked their banter & needling. It was never mean, and a few times when whatever was said/done could be misconstrued as such, they were quick to clear it up. They were very attuned to each other.

Jasper really held himself back because of the age difference, which didn't really factor bc of how Calli grew up & her personality. So, although their ages were in the back of his mind, it wasn't really keeping them apart. They didn't make a move in the spicy times department until later in the story & I really felt that was perfect for them.

Speaking of the 🔥, I LOVE how Calli makes Jasper feel during intimate moments. She doesn't shy away from his scarring - she sees it as part of him & loves all of him. Swoon!

I enjoyed this story LOTS - all the connections & time with family & the reminder of just how long we've known Jasper...

😍😍😍
Profile Image for Kylee.
2,989 reviews59 followers
November 12, 2025
He's A Mean One ends this captivating series on a huge high and also gives us a story of a character we and by we I mean me, have been waiting on for what seems like years. Jasper also known as Hush and Calliope have a banter between them that is so entertaining this book is hard to put down for any amount of time. Her age had ensured he kept her at arm's length for years, not to mention the fact she was the sister to his club brother's wife. The holiday feel added that extra touch that we all crave at this time of year. I loved that Calliope saw past what he classed as his imperfections and in some way was actually drawn to them. Jasper was a character that you just couldn't help but love and just the smallest observations that he made of Calliope that no one else saw just stole my heart. Their story was imperfectly perfect just the way it should be. If these two don't melt your heart then no one will.
828 reviews9 followers
November 29, 2025
Festive grump v. grump MC romance. These two are something. I don't think I've ever encountered such a crabby and deliberately disagreeable couple. They are a hilarious pairing.

Calliope has been instrumental in holding her family together. She has worked many jobs to pay the bills and has done everything to provide stability for her younger siblings. As a result she is fairly combative and isnt a great fan of people. Jasper is the life hardened MC. He has survived loss and trauma and carries the physical scars of his endurance.

These two shouldn't work. But they are just so well matched. Their grumpiness masks the hearts beneath. Hearts that beat for each other and provide unconditional support through the tough times.

I loved this happy ending for Calliope and Jasper and them finding their place together. I also loved the little Easter eggs for other LLV series (well hello there Lynn!). Fun, slow burning, festive, age gap love story.
Profile Image for Angels.
2,022 reviews17 followers
November 29, 2025
He's A Mean One" concludes this captivating series with a high note, focusing on the long-awaited character, Jasper, also known as Hush. His banter with Calliope is engaging and keeps the reader engaged. The witty banter between these two was priceless.

Despite their age difference and familial ties, their chemistry is undeniable. We found ourselves giggling throughout the story; it also had a tad of suspense thanks to mysterious events that piqued our interest.

The holiday setting adds a festive touch to the story, making it even more enjoyable. Calliope's ability to see past Jasper's perceived imperfections and be drawn to him is heartwarming. Jasper's character is endearing, and his subtle observations of Calliope steal the reader's heart. Their imperfectly perfect love story is beautifully portrayed. If their story doesn't touch your heart, nothing will.

The ending could not be more ideal for this couple. We loved it, and we are going to miss these awesome characters.
Profile Image for Alphas Do It Better Book Blog .
3,678 reviews97 followers
December 7, 2025
5 Stars

He's a Mean One is the eighth and final book in LLV's Content Advisory series and even though it can be read as a standalone, I always suggest reading them in order to get the full effect of the background for the story.

Jasper "Hush" Madden has finally found his place with the Truth Tellers MC. Calliope is the sister-in-law of one of his MC brothers. She's quite a bit younger in age, but a crappy childhood has her much older with a great head on her shoulders. Jasper has always kept his distance from her, but he's always there if she needs anything. Now she's his neighbor and let's just say their antics are quite entertaining.

These two have chemistry for days and their banter is magnificent! I especially loved how Calliope never made a big deal about Jasper's burn scars. To her, he's always been the hottest man she's ever known. He's a Mean One will leave you feeling all the things. This story is full of Christmas spirit, shenanigans, love, family, laughter, and enough suspense to keep you turning page after page. I hate that we are at the end of this series, but that just means a new fabulous one is on the way and I for one, cannot wait!!

Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Profile Image for Ashante Williams.
2,047 reviews3 followers
December 1, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Jasper & Calliope: triggers- theft, vandalism, fire, grief and loss. Wow… I really enjoyed this one for the simple fact that LLV always at the end of the year gets nostalgic about her books, her characters and her fans and brings us the perfect way to end the year. This book does just that. We get an end to the “Consent Advisory” series but we also get to tap into previous series’ and characters. Jasper aka “Hush” is the one character we knew the least about because he was the quietest of the Truth Teller MC. This is his story and a funny and sexy neighbor wars, Christmas decoration fight with Calliope, who is one of Searcy’s sisters. Lovers to enemies… maybe, sure, not really… but it's so much fun to watch it unfold. Great series LLV and a great way to end it.
Profile Image for Lynn Brooks.
3,511 reviews43 followers
December 8, 2025
The wrap up to another enthralling series from LLV! If you pick up a Vale novel, you are guaranteed love, lust and laughter throughout. There's going to be a whole lot of heart, angst and addictive characters along the way too. This book is Jasper's story and is the last book in the Content Advisory series. I have whole-heartedly enjoyed every book and highly recommend this series to anyone looking for fast paced, intense and super satisfying. Vale's hero is always alpha, always kind and always good to the very core. This series was loosely a MC series, but there's never any true development of the duties or club, etc. It's just a deep brotherhood, friendship and family that supports each other through the ups and downs of each member's life. I loved getting to know Calliope and her fam! Great characters, well developed plot and a satisfying ending to the series as a whole. Loved it!
Profile Image for JudyAnnLovesBooks.
2,112 reviews75 followers
December 9, 2025
HE’S A MEAN ONE is a funny and suspense filled holiday romance that perfectly captures Lani Lynn Vale's signature style. Jasper and Calliope's story is full of slow burn tension, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of humor to balance the emotion.

Jasper is the ultimate grumpy hero with a heart of gold, and his quiet devotion to Calliope makes this story unforgettable. Calliope's strength and resilience shine through, making her a heroine worth rooting for. Their chemistry leaps off the page, and the neighborly rivalry adds a fun, festive twist that keeps the story light and engaging.

Lani Lynn Vale delivers another winner filled with love, laughter, and redemption. A perfect five-star read for anyone who loves a grumpy-sunshine romance with a Christmas touch. I’m giving HE’S A MEAN ONE the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy.
Profile Image for Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog).
2,287 reviews22 followers
December 10, 2025
Oh man, "He's A Mean One" got me so in my feelings, it's not even funny. Jasper Madden has always noticed Calliope Hodges, but knew she was too young for him. That doesn't stop him from staying in the shadows, watching her, and making sure she's safe. Jasper went through hell and came out on top, but it wasn't without his fight. When Calliope moves in next door, things start to take a most amusing turn. They have a yard war that will have you cracking up. Their banter is hilarious, but their love story is even better. When tragedy strikes, Calliope is there in a way Jasper knew would break down his walls. But he's breaking hers down too, and when the bricks are gone, these two will not only have a strong friendship but a romantic bond. You will want to see if he can tame her or if she will keep him in the friend zone.
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,636 reviews61 followers
December 10, 2025
Oh my goodness. Just when I thought Ms. Vale couldn’t possibly outdo herself with this series, she gives us Calliope and Jasper. These two have been through a lot. Lots of pain, secrets, and lives that just can’t seem to catch a break. I am sad that this is the ending to what I think is an outstanding series, but I was happy to see it’s a holiday romance between two very deserving characters from the series. To say Ms. Vale lets these two get the story they so deserve is an understatement. Their story is not all sunshine and rainbows but it’s fitting, at least in this reader's eyes. I don’t want to give too much away, so I’ll just say, grab He’s a Mean One up asap and enjoy it. If you haven’t started the series then I highly recommend grabbing up all the Conflict Advisory books. You won’t be sorry you did so.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
Profile Image for Tonya.
2,069 reviews10 followers
December 14, 2025
This is the eighth book in the Content Advisory series. It is the last one. They are stand alones, but it is a MC, so the series does show all the Truth Tellers in each book.

I feel like I have been waiting for Jasper's book for forever. Well, since we first met him as a baby.

Calliope is about 20 years younger than he is. She is also a pain in his butt.

These two pick on, and annoy, eachother. Well, that's how they act. They are very competitive with each other.

The back and forth between them is hilarious and will have you laughing out loud.

Callipe may be prickley, but she has a heart of gold. You just have to get passed all the armor and walls she has up.

Both are perfect for one another.

I love them both.

"One day you're young and fun, and the next you're turning down the radio to see better."
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews542 followers
December 10, 2025
This one was fun to read. A lot of time the sniping that goes on between Callie and Jasper at the start will drive me nuts, but it didn't with them. I think because a lot of the time it wasn't words, but actions going back and forth between them and you could clearly see where they were egging each other on or buying into what was going on.

It was crazy how both Callie and Jasper didn't see themselves as much, when they both did so much for their friends and family. By the end of the book, it seemed like maybe each was starting to see that about themselves. I was glad that the MC didn't give Jasper too hard of a time about being with Callie, once he laid his feelings out, they were like ok, you are serious, that's ok. It was nice to see them happy at the end.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,247 reviews52 followers
December 10, 2025
4.5 Stars
I can't believe this is the last book in this series. What a ride it has been. I was super excited when I found out it was going to be holiday romance. I was even more excited to finally get Jasper's story. I've been waiting for that one for a long time. It was so worth the wait. I love Calliope for him. She's on the grumpier side, but you also see the side that shows up for others. We got to know the Hodges siblings' back story in Calliope's oldest sister's book. It's not a pretty one, but life finally shines for them. I just gobbled up this book in a day. It wouldn't be a book by Lani Lynn Vale without some drama. I'm sad to see this series come to end, but excited for what Lani has in store next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.