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Stick Taps #1
Grumpily Ever After
An obstinate ex–NHL player meets his match in a cheerfully resilient wedding planner prone to chaos in this sweet and spicy romantic comedy about game-changing second chances.
Wedding planner Odette Chambers has a knack for ruining every ceremony she touches. But her latest gig could be a curse breaker. The bride is her best friend, Izzy, and the venue is a local cidery with the Pacific Northwest mountains as a beautiful backdrop. The cidery’s only rotten apple is its owner, former NHL player Noah Stevens—Izzy’s older brother and a recently divorced, fully committed grump who doesn’t believe in happy endings.
But Noah can’t say no to his hopeful little sister. His decision sends Odette barreling into his life, and she insists on making picture-perfect renovations to his cidery. She’s demanding, irritatingly optimistic, and quite possibly the prettiest woman he’s ever seen. Noah is turning Odette’s head, too, but if she wants a wedding to finally go off without a hitch, he’s a handsome distraction she can’t afford. Right?
As Noah risks a second chance at love, Odette’s luck might change as well. For better or for worse.
Wedding planner Odette Chambers has a knack for ruining every ceremony she touches. But her latest gig could be a curse breaker. The bride is her best friend, Izzy, and the venue is a local cidery with the Pacific Northwest mountains as a beautiful backdrop. The cidery’s only rotten apple is its owner, former NHL player Noah Stevens—Izzy’s older brother and a recently divorced, fully committed grump who doesn’t believe in happy endings.
But Noah can’t say no to his hopeful little sister. His decision sends Odette barreling into his life, and she insists on making picture-perfect renovations to his cidery. She’s demanding, irritatingly optimistic, and quite possibly the prettiest woman he’s ever seen. Noah is turning Odette’s head, too, but if she wants a wedding to finally go off without a hitch, he’s a handsome distraction she can’t afford. Right?
As Noah risks a second chance at love, Odette’s luck might change as well. For better or for worse.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
846 people are currently reading
7596 people want to read
About the author
Teagan Hunter
50 books5,509 followersTEAGAN HUNTER writes steamy romantic comedies with lots of sarcasm and a side of heart. She loves pizza, hockey, and romance novels, though not in that order. When not writing, you can find her watching entirely too many hours of Supernatural, One Tree Hill, or New Girl. She’s mildly obsessed with Halloween and prefers cooler weather. She married her high school sweetheart, and they currently live in the PNW.
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FOLLOW HER AMAZON PAGE:
amazon.com/author/teaganhunter
FOLLOW HER FACEBOOK PAGE:
facebook.com/teaganhunterwrites
JOIN HER READER GROUP:
Teagan's Tidbits on Facebook
FOLLOW HER INSTAGRAM:
@teaganhunterwrites
SIGN UP FOR HER NEWSLETTER:
Teagan's Newsletter
READING ORDER:
Reading Order For Teagan's Books
________________
Teagan does not regularly check this account. Please visit her website to get in touch with her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 529 reviews
November 10, 2025
3.5 stars
Noah and Odette have known each other a long time. She's his little sister's best friend. And her wedding planner. Odette plans weddings, but due to her family's curse on love, she'll never get married. And after a divorce, Noah has no interest in it either. But they both band together to help get his little sister's wedding together.
And, of course, sparks fly. I liked Noah and Odette together. I think they made a sweet couple. Their story was a bit predictable, but nice. I always enjoy Teagan's books but this one felt a little slow for me. Overall, I enjoyed it, but it wasn't my fave.
Noah and Odette have known each other a long time. She's his little sister's best friend. And her wedding planner. Odette plans weddings, but due to her family's curse on love, she'll never get married. And after a divorce, Noah has no interest in it either. But they both band together to help get his little sister's wedding together.
And, of course, sparks fly. I liked Noah and Odette together. I think they made a sweet couple. Their story was a bit predictable, but nice. I always enjoy Teagan's books but this one felt a little slow for me. Overall, I enjoyed it, but it wasn't my fave.
Currently reading
January 20, 2026Available now!
Download today or read and listen for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
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Narrated by Chloe Ryan & Nelson Hobbs
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Download today or read and listen for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: http://bit.ly/47FMATk
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/R7xoH
Audible: http://bit.ly/4pR0skl
Narrated by Chloe Ryan & Nelson Hobbs
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/3VKNzu9
December 1, 2025
Utterly fun and swoony!
I had such a good time reading this book. This hit the perfect mix of humor, heart, and heat that makes Teagan Hunter so easy for me to sink into. I loved how Odette and Noah’s grumpy/sunshine dynamic unfolded. Slowly, naturally, with just enough spark to keep me grinning at their banter. The pacing was effortless, and the emotional moments were written in a way that made the romance feel genuine.
What really pulled me in was how grounded the characters felt beneath all the fun. Their connection had a warm, steady charm that had me rooting for them from the start. And the way their walls came down gave the story its emotional punch. This was sweet, flirty, and warm in all the right ways all while being the kind of cozy, feel-good romance I love when I want to smile through an entire book.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
I had such a good time reading this book. This hit the perfect mix of humor, heart, and heat that makes Teagan Hunter so easy for me to sink into. I loved how Odette and Noah’s grumpy/sunshine dynamic unfolded. Slowly, naturally, with just enough spark to keep me grinning at their banter. The pacing was effortless, and the emotional moments were written in a way that made the romance feel genuine.
What really pulled me in was how grounded the characters felt beneath all the fun. Their connection had a warm, steady charm that had me rooting for them from the start. And the way their walls came down gave the story its emotional punch. This was sweet, flirty, and warm in all the right ways all while being the kind of cozy, feel-good romance I love when I want to smile through an entire book.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
January 25, 2026
Thanks to Valentine PR for providing the eARC. This is my honest opinion.
Grumpy meets sunshine in a cozy romance
‘Grumpily Ever After’ is an easy and comfortable romance that delivers exactly what it promises, both in good and less memorable ways.
The grumpy x sunshine dynamic between Noah and Odette works well. Their banter feels natural and regularly brings a smile, and the chemistry is present from the very first chapters. Noah’s gruff behavior is clearly rooted in emotional baggage, which gives his character more depth than expected. Odette brings warmth and optimism to the story without feeling overly naïve, creating a balanced and pleasant dynamic between the two.
Where the story falls a bit short is in its predictability. The plot follows familiar romcom tropes and rarely steps outside those lines. While this makes the book comforting and accessible, it also means there are few surprises along the way. The hockey element remains mostly in the background, which may be disappointing for readers hoping for a stronger sports romance focus.
The pacing is fine overall, although the beginning takes some time to fully engage. Once the story settles into its rhythm, it becomes an enjoyable read, but not one that lingers long after the final page.
‘Grumpily Ever After’ is a light, cozy romance with charming characters and an enjoyable tone, but it lacks the spark to truly stand out. A solid three-star read for fans of familiar, feel-good contemporary romance.
Grumpy x Sunshine | Best Friend’s Brother | Small Town Romance | Age Gap | Slow Burn | Contemporary Romance | Light Spice | Cozy Vibes
Grumpy meets sunshine in a cozy romance
‘Grumpily Ever After’ is an easy and comfortable romance that delivers exactly what it promises, both in good and less memorable ways.
The grumpy x sunshine dynamic between Noah and Odette works well. Their banter feels natural and regularly brings a smile, and the chemistry is present from the very first chapters. Noah’s gruff behavior is clearly rooted in emotional baggage, which gives his character more depth than expected. Odette brings warmth and optimism to the story without feeling overly naïve, creating a balanced and pleasant dynamic between the two.
Where the story falls a bit short is in its predictability. The plot follows familiar romcom tropes and rarely steps outside those lines. While this makes the book comforting and accessible, it also means there are few surprises along the way. The hockey element remains mostly in the background, which may be disappointing for readers hoping for a stronger sports romance focus.
The pacing is fine overall, although the beginning takes some time to fully engage. Once the story settles into its rhythm, it becomes an enjoyable read, but not one that lingers long after the final page.
‘Grumpily Ever After’ is a light, cozy romance with charming characters and an enjoyable tone, but it lacks the spark to truly stand out. A solid three-star read for fans of familiar, feel-good contemporary romance.
Grumpy x Sunshine | Best Friend’s Brother | Small Town Romance | Age Gap | Slow Burn | Contemporary Romance | Light Spice | Cozy Vibes
January 20, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
I kind of adored this.
A fun small town rom com with an ex hockey player.
Throw in little sister’s best friend. (Age gap!)
A sworn off love grumpy guy x cursed in love sunshine wedding planner
He owns a cidery and what do you know a perfect place for weddings.
Odette & Noah were fun and forbidden.
Sneaking around.
Opposites attract.
Cat distribution system lady
Escaping chicken
He’s a secret softy
This is my 3rd Teagan Hunter book and I’m getting the feel for her rom coms.
Arc review ✨
I kind of adored this.
A fun small town rom com with an ex hockey player.
Throw in little sister’s best friend. (Age gap!)
A sworn off love grumpy guy x cursed in love sunshine wedding planner
He owns a cidery and what do you know a perfect place for weddings.
Odette & Noah were fun and forbidden.
Sneaking around.
Opposites attract.
Cat distribution system lady
Escaping chicken
He’s a secret softy
This is my 3rd Teagan Hunter book and I’m getting the feel for her rom coms.
Arc review ✨
February 11, 2026
I'm going to preface this by saying I don't feel well, so things probably annoyed me more than they usually would. If these things don't bother you - that's awesome. Take my review with a grain of salt.
I was already irritated in chapter 2 - our first chapter from Odette's POV. Because this is her the ENTIRE chapter:
I literally began hearing her voice in my head as Benny's and talk about a mood killer.
Frankly I don't know how much I'd trust a wedding planner that believes in marriage curses.
It's also weird that SHE is being blamed for marriages falling apart after she planned their weddings. It's not the wedding planner's problem if you can't keep your husband/wife after the wedding is over. What a wild take.
Noah's obviously not much better. No curses to speak of - but he's your typical divorced grump who think marriage is for wussies. Or whatever. It's made clear to us (as in we are told in Noah's inner monologue no less than 6 times) that he doesn't hate LOVE, just MARRIAGE. Okay cool. I don't care.
It wasn't a great start to the book - that somehow 2 people who are so burned and jaded from failed past relationships are supposed to fall in love by the end of this book? Really? Are you sure?
Do they spend any time in a therapist's office? That's the real question. Because one may be grumpy - but the other is kind of clinically insane and I'm worried about her.
If all the women in your family have 4 to 5 failed marriages, it's probably because they pick shitty men, not because some mythical god somewhere has put a smiting on your present and future happiness.
And if ONE bad breakup is enough to prove to you that you're doomed forever to rot alone and never get married then no- you don't need to be in a relationship. You don't need to be lusting after anybody. You need to talk to a professional because that's not healthy, man.
I'm getting so tired of these books that present people so damaged that realistically they'd never end up in a happy long-term relationship and expect us to believe that not only do they find their soulmate but that they frolic off into the sunset together happy for all eternity in the span of a 300 page book.
I just don't buy it.
Other things that irritated me:
1. Noah apparently doesn't know text short hand. What 38 year old American doesn't know what "OMW" means? We're SOLIDLY millennial. We INVENTED text speak.
But I forgot - Odette is 12 years younger. We have to be reminded of this as often as possible, so pretending that Noah grew up in the stone age is just another way to hammer home the age gap. Got it.
2. The repetition of things. Everything from plot points to animal noises to random phrases.
Pale-pink lace. Red hearts. A matching bow.
Shut the fuck uppppp about what this woman's underwear looked like already Jesus Christ. Noah literally - I counted! - thinks that phrase 9 times in one chapter. Once or twice, fine - but 9?! WHY!
3. The situations the two main characters repeatedly find themselves in overshoot funny by a mile and land squarely in cringy second-hand embarrassment territory.
How complicated is it to get a stranded woman a roll of TP without making a gigantic production out of it?
The way these two find the most RIDICULOUS situations to get themselves into just had them reading like teenagers. Just to remind you this dude is THIRTY EIGHT. Acting like a 5 year old.
It's not sexy. Neither of these people are sexy. At no point did I want to see them get naked together.
4. The cat distribution system lady was a ridiculous addition to this story. And of course the cats are Pork and Beans. 🙄
5. The animal noises! Cluck and Meow - and whatever the crap that duck noise was. I felt like I was in a terrible episode of Old MacDonald's Farm
6. For 40% of this story Odette moons over and lusts after Noah. Wants him to kiss her wants him in every which way. Then he DOES kiss her and she breaks it off and turns and runs like the over dramatic wimp she is.
Why give us half a book of I need you I want you oh baby oh baby but then when the dude finally snaps they run scared? Shut the fuck up.
7. Noah compares sex with Odette to playing hockey.
8. Noah keeps using the word "digits" instead of fingers during spicy time - to the point it had me picturing phone numbers and calculators. What a weird word. What's wrong with fingers?
9. I've never cared for the "we can't tell my sister/my best friend" about us story line.
10. Noah confesses that his ex-wife didn't think he was enough - specifically that "he didn't want kids enough".
Then later, he confesses that said ex-wife didn't want children because she didn't want to ruin her body."
Which is it?
11. Noah gets the talking to after the 3rd act breakup, despite the fact that Odette is the one who ends things because of her own trauma and superstitions.
Okay so I've moaned about a lot of stuff - but there's good stuff too.
Odette and Noah DO actually have deep, meaningful conversations. They (kind of) date each other and they spend plenty of time together outside the bedroom, allowing the relationship to really develop in a realistic way. They encourage each other and build each other up. So when the I Love Yous happen - in the final couple of chapters - it doesn't feel contrived or unearned.
The Liberation Party at the end was actually kind of cute. So was the grand gesture Noah does for Odette.
The spice is decent - digit issue not withstanding.
I didn't out and out hate this story - but I also don't think it's going to be one of those I remember details about 6 months from now, either.
I was already irritated in chapter 2 - our first chapter from Odette's POV. Because this is her the ENTIRE chapter:
I literally began hearing her voice in my head as Benny's and talk about a mood killer.
Frankly I don't know how much I'd trust a wedding planner that believes in marriage curses.
It's also weird that SHE is being blamed for marriages falling apart after she planned their weddings. It's not the wedding planner's problem if you can't keep your husband/wife after the wedding is over. What a wild take.
Noah's obviously not much better. No curses to speak of - but he's your typical divorced grump who think marriage is for wussies. Or whatever. It's made clear to us (as in we are told in Noah's inner monologue no less than 6 times) that he doesn't hate LOVE, just MARRIAGE. Okay cool. I don't care.
It wasn't a great start to the book - that somehow 2 people who are so burned and jaded from failed past relationships are supposed to fall in love by the end of this book? Really? Are you sure?
Do they spend any time in a therapist's office? That's the real question. Because one may be grumpy - but the other is kind of clinically insane and I'm worried about her.
If all the women in your family have 4 to 5 failed marriages, it's probably because they pick shitty men, not because some mythical god somewhere has put a smiting on your present and future happiness.
And if ONE bad breakup is enough to prove to you that you're doomed forever to rot alone and never get married then no- you don't need to be in a relationship. You don't need to be lusting after anybody. You need to talk to a professional because that's not healthy, man.
I'm getting so tired of these books that present people so damaged that realistically they'd never end up in a happy long-term relationship and expect us to believe that not only do they find their soulmate but that they frolic off into the sunset together happy for all eternity in the span of a 300 page book.
I just don't buy it.
Other things that irritated me:
1. Noah apparently doesn't know text short hand. What 38 year old American doesn't know what "OMW" means? We're SOLIDLY millennial. We INVENTED text speak.
But I forgot - Odette is 12 years younger. We have to be reminded of this as often as possible, so pretending that Noah grew up in the stone age is just another way to hammer home the age gap. Got it.
2. The repetition of things. Everything from plot points to animal noises to random phrases.
Pale-pink lace. Red hearts. A matching bow.
Shut the fuck uppppp about what this woman's underwear looked like already Jesus Christ. Noah literally - I counted! - thinks that phrase 9 times in one chapter. Once or twice, fine - but 9?! WHY!
3. The situations the two main characters repeatedly find themselves in overshoot funny by a mile and land squarely in cringy second-hand embarrassment territory.
How complicated is it to get a stranded woman a roll of TP without making a gigantic production out of it?
The way these two find the most RIDICULOUS situations to get themselves into just had them reading like teenagers. Just to remind you this dude is THIRTY EIGHT. Acting like a 5 year old.
It's not sexy. Neither of these people are sexy. At no point did I want to see them get naked together.
4. The cat distribution system lady was a ridiculous addition to this story. And of course the cats are Pork and Beans. 🙄
5. The animal noises! Cluck and Meow - and whatever the crap that duck noise was. I felt like I was in a terrible episode of Old MacDonald's Farm
6. For 40% of this story Odette moons over and lusts after Noah. Wants him to kiss her wants him in every which way. Then he DOES kiss her and she breaks it off and turns and runs like the over dramatic wimp she is.
Why give us half a book of I need you I want you oh baby oh baby but then when the dude finally snaps they run scared? Shut the fuck up.
7. Noah compares sex with Odette to playing hockey.
8. Noah keeps using the word "digits" instead of fingers during spicy time - to the point it had me picturing phone numbers and calculators. What a weird word. What's wrong with fingers?
9. I've never cared for the "we can't tell my sister/my best friend" about us story line.
10. Noah confesses that his ex-wife didn't think he was enough - specifically that "he didn't want kids enough".
Then later, he confesses that said ex-wife didn't want children because she didn't want to ruin her body."
Which is it?
11. Noah gets the talking to after the 3rd act breakup, despite the fact that Odette is the one who ends things because of her own trauma and superstitions.
Okay so I've moaned about a lot of stuff - but there's good stuff too.
Odette and Noah DO actually have deep, meaningful conversations. They (kind of) date each other and they spend plenty of time together outside the bedroom, allowing the relationship to really develop in a realistic way. They encourage each other and build each other up. So when the I Love Yous happen - in the final couple of chapters - it doesn't feel contrived or unearned.
The Liberation Party at the end was actually kind of cute. So was the grand gesture Noah does for Odette.
The spice is decent - digit issue not withstanding.
I didn't out and out hate this story - but I also don't think it's going to be one of those I remember details about 6 months from now, either.
January 21, 2026
Anyone else love a story where a woman gets with her childhood crush?
Odette Chambers is a wedding planner in trouble. After some mishaps in previous weddings and some marriages that quickly ended in divorce, her business is floundering. Its not Odettes fault... or is it the Chambers curse? The one that has caused every marriage of a Chambers to end?
So this wedding for her best friend needs to go perfectly. That means getting her best friends brother to go along with using his business. Noah Stevens is an ex NHL player and doesnt believe in weddings or marriage since his blew up a few years ago. He doesnt want his business to host weddings but what his baby sister wants...
So now Odette and Noah are working together to get his place ready. Shes always been younger than him and someone hes always seen as a little sister. But shes really not. I loved how interested he becomes. I was thinking it was going to be a slow interest on his end but was pleasantly surprised!
These two though have some internal issues blocking a HEA though. And sneaking around isnt helping moving past them!
The towns a little quirky. I love those kind of towns. And I'm wondering whos going to be in book 3...
Odette Chambers is a wedding planner in trouble. After some mishaps in previous weddings and some marriages that quickly ended in divorce, her business is floundering. Its not Odettes fault... or is it the Chambers curse? The one that has caused every marriage of a Chambers to end?
So this wedding for her best friend needs to go perfectly. That means getting her best friends brother to go along with using his business. Noah Stevens is an ex NHL player and doesnt believe in weddings or marriage since his blew up a few years ago. He doesnt want his business to host weddings but what his baby sister wants...
So now Odette and Noah are working together to get his place ready. Shes always been younger than him and someone hes always seen as a little sister. But shes really not. I loved how interested he becomes. I was thinking it was going to be a slow interest on his end but was pleasantly surprised!
These two though have some internal issues blocking a HEA though. And sneaking around isnt helping moving past them!
The towns a little quirky. I love those kind of towns. And I'm wondering whos going to be in book 3...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you so much to Montlake, Brilliance Audio, and Valentine PR for the eARC, ALC, + ARC. these are my honest thoughts!
I'm OBSESSED with this story!!
I love these Teagan Hunter small town romances from Montlake, and I especially love this one. Noah Stevens is trying to settle into his life, post-NHL career. He's got money and means, but he loves to work hard. When he decides to take on a cider endeavor that comes attached to a farm, he gets more than he bargained for. But in his small town, he's always trying to meet people's needs, as long as they don't rub him the wrong way. And his sister Izzy's best friend? Odette Chambers rubs Noah the WRONG way, always has. And she's always had a little crush on Noah. When Izzy asks Noah to let her turn his ciderhouse/barn into her wedding venue, he can't and won't say no to her. And that means working alongside Odette, who *needs* this wedding to be her best yet (because, otherwise, her curse will scare all future brides away - her track record is abysmal).
When Odie and Noah start to spend more time together, their bickering turns to foreplay in the BEST way, and their chemistry can no longer be contained. When a storm comes through and forces them together for an extended period of time, they're forced to face each other in a raw and honest way. And thennnn... they sneak around and find themselves in some pretty strange places together, and it just works. And when things start going wrong, Odette's convinced her curse has come to wreak havoc on her life once more. But there's something extremely sexy about a man who just won't let that happen.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- best friends brother
- forced proximity
- small town
- cider house owner × wedding planner
- childhood crush
- secret relationship
- fixer upper
- cursed relationships × divorcee
- farm life
- cat daddy (and chicken daddy, duck daddy) × cat mommy
THE AUDIO: Amazing on audio!!! Chloe Ryan and Nelson Hobbs are incredible in this one. I CONSUMED this book (or it consumed me?). With a run time under 10 hours, this was a quick and fun read, with heavier topics being handled with care. Grumpy Noah, narrated by Nelson Hobbs, perfectly contrasted the stubborn and passionate Odette Chambers, narrated by Chloe Ryan. 5 stars, easy.
I'm OBSESSED with this story!!
I love these Teagan Hunter small town romances from Montlake, and I especially love this one. Noah Stevens is trying to settle into his life, post-NHL career. He's got money and means, but he loves to work hard. When he decides to take on a cider endeavor that comes attached to a farm, he gets more than he bargained for. But in his small town, he's always trying to meet people's needs, as long as they don't rub him the wrong way. And his sister Izzy's best friend? Odette Chambers rubs Noah the WRONG way, always has. And she's always had a little crush on Noah. When Izzy asks Noah to let her turn his ciderhouse/barn into her wedding venue, he can't and won't say no to her. And that means working alongside Odette, who *needs* this wedding to be her best yet (because, otherwise, her curse will scare all future brides away - her track record is abysmal).
When Odie and Noah start to spend more time together, their bickering turns to foreplay in the BEST way, and their chemistry can no longer be contained. When a storm comes through and forces them together for an extended period of time, they're forced to face each other in a raw and honest way. And thennnn... they sneak around and find themselves in some pretty strange places together, and it just works. And when things start going wrong, Odette's convinced her curse has come to wreak havoc on her life once more. But there's something extremely sexy about a man who just won't let that happen.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- best friends brother
- forced proximity
- small town
- cider house owner × wedding planner
- childhood crush
- secret relationship
- fixer upper
- cursed relationships × divorcee
- farm life
- cat daddy (and chicken daddy, duck daddy) × cat mommy
THE AUDIO: Amazing on audio!!! Chloe Ryan and Nelson Hobbs are incredible in this one. I CONSUMED this book (or it consumed me?). With a run time under 10 hours, this was a quick and fun read, with heavier topics being handled with care. Grumpy Noah, narrated by Nelson Hobbs, perfectly contrasted the stubborn and passionate Odette Chambers, narrated by Chloe Ryan. 5 stars, easy.
February 5, 2026
Dnf at 30%. This wasn't for me.
March 6, 2026
3.5⭐️ rounded up
I enjoyed the plot and the characters - especially Noah! I just found it a little slow in the middle. The ending was perfect and so sweet!
I enjoyed the plot and the characters - especially Noah! I just found it a little slow in the middle. The ending was perfect and so sweet!
October 24, 2025
This is my first book by Teagan Hunter and I must say I absolutely loved it! She had me so engrossed I finished it one day. I love a good rom-com that I can’t put down. This book is amazing.
Best Friends brother
Wedding planner
Divorcee
Hockey player
Just a little bit of everything all rolled into one. Pure perfection. Odette and Noah are perfect for each other.
I was granted an advance copy from NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion of the book.
Best Friends brother
Wedding planner
Divorcee
Hockey player
Just a little bit of everything all rolled into one. Pure perfection. Odette and Noah are perfect for each other.
I was granted an advance copy from NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion of the book.
January 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
This was all the good things I’d expect from a Teagan Hunter book and my favourite I’ve read of hers in a while.
It was a sweet, low angst easy read with some spice.
Retired hockey player Noah runs cidery Stick Taps and his little sister convinces him to let her hold her wedding there. Enter her best friend and wedding planner Odette. She’s 26 to Noah’s 38 and off limits. But they’re forced to spend a lot of time together preparing everything for the wedding and soon neither can resist their attraction.
Noah starts off super super grumpy but I loved watching him soften when it came to Odette. She is a really likeable relatable character who believes the women in her family are cursed when it comes to love and is worried the curse is running over into her business.
They were a perfect match and I hope we see lots more of them in the next book in this series which I’m looking forward to!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
This was all the good things I’d expect from a Teagan Hunter book and my favourite I’ve read of hers in a while.
It was a sweet, low angst easy read with some spice.
Retired hockey player Noah runs cidery Stick Taps and his little sister convinces him to let her hold her wedding there. Enter her best friend and wedding planner Odette. She’s 26 to Noah’s 38 and off limits. But they’re forced to spend a lot of time together preparing everything for the wedding and soon neither can resist their attraction.
Noah starts off super super grumpy but I loved watching him soften when it came to Odette. She is a really likeable relatable character who believes the women in her family are cursed when it comes to love and is worried the curse is running over into her business.
They were a perfect match and I hope we see lots more of them in the next book in this series which I’m looking forward to!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely LOVED this book! I have loved every book I have ever read by Teagan Hunter and this book is no different. Noah and Odette were incredible lead characters, but I also have to give a shout out to the secondary characters including some wily animals like Tootsie, Pork, and Beans - too cute and funny!
The chemistry between Odette and Noah was there from the beginning, but it was subtle and demure. Over the course of the story we got to watch it flourish and soar...and I loved every moment of it. Despite their own pasts and apprehensions, they broke through that fear because they finally found that person worth it all.
I really enjoyed this original story from the fabulously talented Teagan Hunter. It was funny, sexy, quirky, and just such a great read.
The chemistry between Odette and Noah was there from the beginning, but it was subtle and demure. Over the course of the story we got to watch it flourish and soar...and I loved every moment of it. Despite their own pasts and apprehensions, they broke through that fear because they finally found that person worth it all.
I really enjoyed this original story from the fabulously talented Teagan Hunter. It was funny, sexy, quirky, and just such a great read.
Read
January 24, 2026I liked how this was not just a typical romance. The FMC (Odette) did not believe in romance or HEA, but at the same time she was a wedding planner. (lol)
Of course Noah fell first and had to win her over!
Loved the banter between Odette and Noah. The thing in the bathroom had me cracking up. The pets were so cute and I loved how they added to the story
The Audiobook was great! I dont think Ive listened to Chloe Ryan or Nelson Hobbs but I’m definitely going to be looking out for them going forward!
If you want something sweet and spicy definitely check this one out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Of course Noah fell first and had to win her over!
Loved the banter between Odette and Noah. The thing in the bathroom had me cracking up. The pets were so cute and I loved how they added to the story
The Audiobook was great! I dont think Ive listened to Chloe Ryan or Nelson Hobbs but I’m definitely going to be looking out for them going forward!
If you want something sweet and spicy definitely check this one out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 7, 2026
3.5 ⭐
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Montlake and Teagan Hunter for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc!
Grumpily ever after is the first book in the Stick Taps series, the story follows Noah, a retired hockey player that moved back home after a divorce and decided to open a cidery, and Odette, his younger sister's best friend and resident wedding planner. The two of them end up having to join forces in order to plan his little sister's wedding, and that's where everything starts.
Tropes you can find in this book:
- Age gap
- Best friend's brother
- Small town
- Secret/Forbidden romance
I really enjoyed this, it was fun and wholesome. The dynamic between the two main characters was great, there was enough banter, enough tension and enough emotion. I loved reading their story and I had a lot of fun reading about them sneaking around and falling for each other. The only thing that bothered me a little is the whole "curse" thing, I think it was too much at times but I get why the element was present.
It's a quick paced read, perfect to binge read while spending an afternoon cozying up on the sofa!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Montlake and Teagan Hunter for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc!
Grumpily ever after is the first book in the Stick Taps series, the story follows Noah, a retired hockey player that moved back home after a divorce and decided to open a cidery, and Odette, his younger sister's best friend and resident wedding planner. The two of them end up having to join forces in order to plan his little sister's wedding, and that's where everything starts.
Tropes you can find in this book:
- Age gap
- Best friend's brother
- Small town
- Secret/Forbidden romance
I really enjoyed this, it was fun and wholesome. The dynamic between the two main characters was great, there was enough banter, enough tension and enough emotion. I loved reading their story and I had a lot of fun reading about them sneaking around and falling for each other. The only thing that bothered me a little is the whole "curse" thing, I think it was too much at times but I get why the element was present.
It's a quick paced read, perfect to binge read while spending an afternoon cozying up on the sofa!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grumpily Ever After
~ Teagan Hunter
Isabelle “Izzy” Stevens is getting married, and her best friend Odette Chambers is the wedding planner. Simple enough, right? Except every venue Izzy wants is booked, and Odette is dealing with her family’s long-standing “curse,” which has been quietly wrecking her confidence and threatening her business.
Enter Noah Stevens. Former hockey player, owner of Stick Tap Cidery, and Izzy’s much older, very grumpy big brother. Through a mix of sibling pressure and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, Noah finds himself strong-armed into turning his cidery into a wedding venue. Odette may or may not be helping that plan along.
Odette desperately needs a win, and she’s convinced Izzy’s wedding is it. Once Noah’s business partner signs off on the renovations and budget, Noah dives into planning what needs to be done on the farm where the cidery and his home sit. Odette volunteers to help, despite Noah’s reluctance, and the tension between them sparks almost immediately.
But the Chambers women have lived under the shadow of a love curse for generations, and Odette can’t shake the fear that it will ruin this wedding too and possibly end her career. Can Noah pull off a full wedding venue in ten weeks? And can Odette finally break free from the curse hanging over her heart?
To find out, you’ll need to pick up Grumpily Ever After.
Teagan Hunter does a great job with character development. Noah absolutely delivers on the grump factor. You feel it from the very first scene, from his curt responses to his resistance against turning his livelihood into a wedding destination. Izzy is upbeat and infectious, her excitement spilling right off the page. Odette is thoughtful and thorough as a planner, but beneath that competence is a deep fear that the curse will ruin not just relationships, but everything she’s worked for. All three characters feel layered, flawed, emotional, and very human.
The pacing is quick and keeps the story moving. While some elements are predictable, as rom-coms often are, there are enough twists and turns to keep you invested all the way through. I won’t spoil the ending, but it was absolutely worth the read.
My favorite characters? Tootsie and Larry. Trust me, you’ll understand once you read it.
As the first book in the Stick Tap series, Grumpily Ever After left me wanting more, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment. If you’re in the mood for a quick, feel-good read that delivers humor, heart, and a touch of swoon, this one is worth picking up when it releases on January 20, 2026.
I would like to thank Valentine PR and Teagan Hunter for the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC for Grumpily Ever After. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation, current or future by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review.
~ Teagan Hunter
Isabelle “Izzy” Stevens is getting married, and her best friend Odette Chambers is the wedding planner. Simple enough, right? Except every venue Izzy wants is booked, and Odette is dealing with her family’s long-standing “curse,” which has been quietly wrecking her confidence and threatening her business.
Enter Noah Stevens. Former hockey player, owner of Stick Tap Cidery, and Izzy’s much older, very grumpy big brother. Through a mix of sibling pressure and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, Noah finds himself strong-armed into turning his cidery into a wedding venue. Odette may or may not be helping that plan along.
Odette desperately needs a win, and she’s convinced Izzy’s wedding is it. Once Noah’s business partner signs off on the renovations and budget, Noah dives into planning what needs to be done on the farm where the cidery and his home sit. Odette volunteers to help, despite Noah’s reluctance, and the tension between them sparks almost immediately.
But the Chambers women have lived under the shadow of a love curse for generations, and Odette can’t shake the fear that it will ruin this wedding too and possibly end her career. Can Noah pull off a full wedding venue in ten weeks? And can Odette finally break free from the curse hanging over her heart?
To find out, you’ll need to pick up Grumpily Ever After.
Teagan Hunter does a great job with character development. Noah absolutely delivers on the grump factor. You feel it from the very first scene, from his curt responses to his resistance against turning his livelihood into a wedding destination. Izzy is upbeat and infectious, her excitement spilling right off the page. Odette is thoughtful and thorough as a planner, but beneath that competence is a deep fear that the curse will ruin not just relationships, but everything she’s worked for. All three characters feel layered, flawed, emotional, and very human.
The pacing is quick and keeps the story moving. While some elements are predictable, as rom-coms often are, there are enough twists and turns to keep you invested all the way through. I won’t spoil the ending, but it was absolutely worth the read.
My favorite characters? Tootsie and Larry. Trust me, you’ll understand once you read it.
As the first book in the Stick Tap series, Grumpily Ever After left me wanting more, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment. If you’re in the mood for a quick, feel-good read that delivers humor, heart, and a touch of swoon, this one is worth picking up when it releases on January 20, 2026.
I would like to thank Valentine PR and Teagan Hunter for the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC for Grumpily Ever After. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation, current or future by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review.
January 23, 2026
Grumpily Ever After - Teagan Hunter - ARC [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Odette was trying to revive her wedding planning business after some unlucky breakups struck the couples who had her at their wedding. She was sure that her whole family was cursed - to never be able to find their true love. That's why Odette didn't want to make a step towards her long time crush for Noah, who recently came back to town after his retirement from hockey. On top of that, Noah was her best friend's older brother and she never wanted them together. Will she be able to stay away from his charms?
I liked the idea of this story with that curse and how Odette was trying to run away from love because of it. Even though she dreamed about her own perfect wedding even from when she was a kid, Odette was a little forced in the present to take a step back from her own happiness and focus on her business. It was pretty interesting how these two ended up intertwining in her life and in a way Odette only dreamed about. Why? Well, because both of them had Noah in the spotlight. He could be the one who might help with Odette's business and working in close proximity would make them see each other in another light. And things might get really tensioned between them, igniting such a strong fire. One secret romance which was so adorable and also sexy.
I had quite a nice time reading this book. It had all sorts of funny parts which were entangled with some spicy ones. I also liked that little forbidden touch of their relationship. It was a nice age gap, small town romance which made me relax and have a great time.
Thank you Valentine Pr and Teagan for offering me this e-ARC. Super grateful for it!
✨Tropes
▫️Age Gap (26/38)
▫️Grumpy MMC
▫️Best Friend's Older Brother
▫️Small Town
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Retired Hockey Player
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Banter
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Odette was trying to revive her wedding planning business after some unlucky breakups struck the couples who had her at their wedding. She was sure that her whole family was cursed - to never be able to find their true love. That's why Odette didn't want to make a step towards her long time crush for Noah, who recently came back to town after his retirement from hockey. On top of that, Noah was her best friend's older brother and she never wanted them together. Will she be able to stay away from his charms?
I liked the idea of this story with that curse and how Odette was trying to run away from love because of it. Even though she dreamed about her own perfect wedding even from when she was a kid, Odette was a little forced in the present to take a step back from her own happiness and focus on her business. It was pretty interesting how these two ended up intertwining in her life and in a way Odette only dreamed about. Why? Well, because both of them had Noah in the spotlight. He could be the one who might help with Odette's business and working in close proximity would make them see each other in another light. And things might get really tensioned between them, igniting such a strong fire. One secret romance which was so adorable and also sexy.
I had quite a nice time reading this book. It had all sorts of funny parts which were entangled with some spicy ones. I also liked that little forbidden touch of their relationship. It was a nice age gap, small town romance which made me relax and have a great time.
Thank you Valentine Pr and Teagan for offering me this e-ARC. Super grateful for it!
✨Tropes
▫️Age Gap (26/38)
▫️Grumpy MMC
▫️Best Friend's Older Brother
▫️Small Town
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Retired Hockey Player
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Banter
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ **Grumpily Ever After** by Teagan Hunter
ALC review (thank you NetGalley, Valentine Pr, and Teagan Hunter 🙌)
This was a fun, cozy small-town romance with a grumpy MMC that definitely delivered on banter! Especially if you love a *best friend’s brother* trope mixed with forced proximity and a man who is aggressively allergic to feelings 😅
Odette is outgoing and warm, but cursed at love. I know she hated it, but the nickname Odie was so freaking Adorable. Noah, on the other hand, is crabby AF (an ex-NHL star who doesn't believe in love), which of course makes them absolutely perfect for each other. Their chemistry and back-and-forth were some of my favorite parts of the book.
There's a scene in the beginning where Noah accidentally sees Odette’s panties laying in her car and for the rest of the book he repeatedly muttered “pale pink lace, red hearts, matching bow…” like it was burned into his brain and it had me cracking up!!!! This man was OBSESSED with her panties 🤣
Noah secretly keeping Odette’s “perfect wedding” wishlist and then making it come true later was totally swoon-worthy.
I also loved the women in Odette’s family. They’ve all been burned by love, yet none of them gave up or turned bitter. That theme of choosing hope over resentment was really refreshing.
Is there anything hotter than a giant grumpy man holding a tiny baby kitten!?!?!? And the way talked talked to all the animals on the propertt was hilarious and quite adorable. Soft men with sharp edges? Immediate yes!!!
I just knew Izzy’s fiancé was a sleeze from the start; hardly ever showing up, working ridiculous long hours, travel... but I didn’t expect him to be sleeping with another woman, on the night before their wedding, IN THEIR BED!!!! And then to try and convince Izzy "he can't help it" and promised it would change after they got married was wild!!! I was so relieved it was Odette who caught him in the act and not Izzy.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and had a good time reading it, but it did feel a little choppy, like something was missing or rushed between moments. I wanted just a bit more depth or smoother transitions to fully sink into it.
Still, if you love grumpy men, sweet banter, beating a love curse, and kittens stealing scenes.... this one’s worth the read
ALC review (thank you NetGalley, Valentine Pr, and Teagan Hunter 🙌)
This was a fun, cozy small-town romance with a grumpy MMC that definitely delivered on banter! Especially if you love a *best friend’s brother* trope mixed with forced proximity and a man who is aggressively allergic to feelings 😅
Odette is outgoing and warm, but cursed at love. I know she hated it, but the nickname Odie was so freaking Adorable. Noah, on the other hand, is crabby AF (an ex-NHL star who doesn't believe in love), which of course makes them absolutely perfect for each other. Their chemistry and back-and-forth were some of my favorite parts of the book.
There's a scene in the beginning where Noah accidentally sees Odette’s panties laying in her car and for the rest of the book he repeatedly muttered “pale pink lace, red hearts, matching bow…” like it was burned into his brain and it had me cracking up!!!! This man was OBSESSED with her panties 🤣
Noah secretly keeping Odette’s “perfect wedding” wishlist and then making it come true later was totally swoon-worthy.
I also loved the women in Odette’s family. They’ve all been burned by love, yet none of them gave up or turned bitter. That theme of choosing hope over resentment was really refreshing.
Is there anything hotter than a giant grumpy man holding a tiny baby kitten!?!?!? And the way talked talked to all the animals on the propertt was hilarious and quite adorable. Soft men with sharp edges? Immediate yes!!!
I just knew Izzy’s fiancé was a sleeze from the start; hardly ever showing up, working ridiculous long hours, travel... but I didn’t expect him to be sleeping with another woman, on the night before their wedding, IN THEIR BED!!!! And then to try and convince Izzy "he can't help it" and promised it would change after they got married was wild!!! I was so relieved it was Odette who caught him in the act and not Izzy.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and had a good time reading it, but it did feel a little choppy, like something was missing or rushed between moments. I wanted just a bit more depth or smoother transitions to fully sink into it.
Still, if you love grumpy men, sweet banter, beating a love curse, and kittens stealing scenes.... this one’s worth the read
January 2, 2026
Grumpily Ever After is a super cute contemporary romance with:
🏒 Best friend’s brother
🏒 Small town
🏒 Ex-hockey player
🏒 Grumpy, divorced, and not interested in finding love again
🏒 “Cursed” wedding planner who is unlucky in love (and life)
This was my first Teagan Hunter read and I’ll def keep her in mind when I’m in between fantasy reads. This book has a good mix of lighthearted fun with some emotional aspects when it comes to sorting thru our MC’s, Noah and Odette, baggage. It took me a min to switch gears and get into this but once I did, I was pretty locked in.
Loved the build up of tension when it comes to the two MCs trying not to give in to their mounting chemistry due to their forced proximity of helping to plan Noah’s sister’s wedding.
I totallllly knew how the ending was gonna play out but I was still entertained. Assuming we’ll get future books, I’ll def be interested in checking them out.
I’m sure I’m not the only one that loves a grandma who’s a spitfire so I’ll drop my favorite line from my read:
Nonna hugs me next, and I inhale the familiar scent of sourdough. “These other old birds might not be smart enough to catch on, but I’ve been around a long, long time, Odette. I know when two people have seen each other naked.”
Thanks so much to Montake and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
🏒 Best friend’s brother
🏒 Small town
🏒 Ex-hockey player
🏒 Grumpy, divorced, and not interested in finding love again
🏒 “Cursed” wedding planner who is unlucky in love (and life)
This was my first Teagan Hunter read and I’ll def keep her in mind when I’m in between fantasy reads. This book has a good mix of lighthearted fun with some emotional aspects when it comes to sorting thru our MC’s, Noah and Odette, baggage. It took me a min to switch gears and get into this but once I did, I was pretty locked in.
Loved the build up of tension when it comes to the two MCs trying not to give in to their mounting chemistry due to their forced proximity of helping to plan Noah’s sister’s wedding.
I totallllly knew how the ending was gonna play out but I was still entertained. Assuming we’ll get future books, I’ll def be interested in checking them out.
I’m sure I’m not the only one that loves a grandma who’s a spitfire so I’ll drop my favorite line from my read:
Nonna hugs me next, and I inhale the familiar scent of sourdough. “These other old birds might not be smart enough to catch on, but I’ve been around a long, long time, Odette. I know when two people have seen each other naked.”
Thanks so much to Montake and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 26, 2026
Thank you, Valentine PR and Teagan Hunter, for the Advance Listener Copy of Grumpily Ever After!
Noah Stevens can never say no to his little sister Izzy, so when she begs him to host her wedding at his cidery in the Pacific Northwest, he caves to her wishes. That is, until he realizes he’ll have to spend time with her best friend and wedding planner, Odette. Noah never paid any attention to the raven-haired girl, but the more time he spends with her, the more he cannot get enough. Odette Chambers just wants to pull off one successful wedding. Her last few attempts made her the talk of the town—and not in a good way. With her best friend’s wedding happening in ten weeks, she’ll do everything in her power to make sure the day is perfect, even if it means working with the man she has been crushing on to make it happen.
This is my first Teagan Hunter novel, and I enjoyed getting to meet the Chambers and Stevens families. This book has your traditional small-town romance charm with a nice dose of spice. I like the relationship between the couple and the way they fell for one another.
I am excited to read book two called Grumpily Yours, coming out in July.
Noah Stevens can never say no to his little sister Izzy, so when she begs him to host her wedding at his cidery in the Pacific Northwest, he caves to her wishes. That is, until he realizes he’ll have to spend time with her best friend and wedding planner, Odette. Noah never paid any attention to the raven-haired girl, but the more time he spends with her, the more he cannot get enough. Odette Chambers just wants to pull off one successful wedding. Her last few attempts made her the talk of the town—and not in a good way. With her best friend’s wedding happening in ten weeks, she’ll do everything in her power to make sure the day is perfect, even if it means working with the man she has been crushing on to make it happen.
This is my first Teagan Hunter novel, and I enjoyed getting to meet the Chambers and Stevens families. This book has your traditional small-town romance charm with a nice dose of spice. I like the relationship between the couple and the way they fell for one another.
I am excited to read book two called Grumpily Yours, coming out in July.
February 9, 2026
Grumpily Ever After is the 1st book in the Stick Taps series. This book is about Noah and Odette and is told from both of their points of view.
When Noah's sister Izzy begs him to throw her dream wedding on his property which is a cidery he caves and lets her do it. When she has her best friend Odette plan the wedding, Noah does not take this news well. Odette comes in with her guns blazing and wants to change things. Noah has had a marriage not work in the past, and has given up on love.
The more Noah and Odette are together feelings start to develop between the two. However, Odette thinks her family has a curse and can't find love, and Noah is not looking for a relationship after his past.
Can Odette pull off the perfect wedding for Izzy? What happens between Odette and Noah once the wedding is over? Will Noah and Odette get tehri happy ending? I enjoyed this book and getting to know these two characters, and am excited to see what's coming next in this series.
When Noah's sister Izzy begs him to throw her dream wedding on his property which is a cidery he caves and lets her do it. When she has her best friend Odette plan the wedding, Noah does not take this news well. Odette comes in with her guns blazing and wants to change things. Noah has had a marriage not work in the past, and has given up on love.
The more Noah and Odette are together feelings start to develop between the two. However, Odette thinks her family has a curse and can't find love, and Noah is not looking for a relationship after his past.
Can Odette pull off the perfect wedding for Izzy? What happens between Odette and Noah once the wedding is over? Will Noah and Odette get tehri happy ending? I enjoyed this book and getting to know these two characters, and am excited to see what's coming next in this series.
February 10, 2026
Grumpily Ever After was such a fun, easy romance that delivered exactly what I was hoping for. Teagan Hunter does grumpy heroes so well, and this one had just the right mix of banter, tension, and heart.
The grumpy/sunshine dynamic was a highlight for me—watching the walls slowly come down was genuinely satisfying, and the chemistry felt natural rather than forced. The humor landed more often than not, and I found myself smiling through a lot of the dialogue. It’s light, entertaining, and perfect when you want something comforting without being boring.
While the story was somewhat predictable, that didn’t take away from the enjoyment. A few moments felt a little rushed, and I wished certain emotional beats had been explored just a bit deeper, but overall the pacing kept me engaged from start to finish.
If you’re in the mood for a feel-good romance with a lovable grump, plenty of charm, and a happily-ever-after that feels earned, this one is absolutely worth the read.
The grumpy/sunshine dynamic was a highlight for me—watching the walls slowly come down was genuinely satisfying, and the chemistry felt natural rather than forced. The humor landed more often than not, and I found myself smiling through a lot of the dialogue. It’s light, entertaining, and perfect when you want something comforting without being boring.
While the story was somewhat predictable, that didn’t take away from the enjoyment. A few moments felt a little rushed, and I wished certain emotional beats had been explored just a bit deeper, but overall the pacing kept me engaged from start to finish.
If you’re in the mood for a feel-good romance with a lovable grump, plenty of charm, and a happily-ever-after that feels earned, this one is absolutely worth the read.
February 18, 2026
Grumpily Ever After by Teagan Hunter is a hilarious and heartwarming grumpy-sunshine romance that nails snarky banter, laugh-out-loud moments, and steamy tension with feel-good charm. The story pairs a perpetually grumpy hero forced into fake-dating a bubbly, optimistic heroine, where their clashing vibes spark unexpected chemistry amid family chaos and personal growth. Hunter's witty dialogue and fast pacing make it a total delight from start to finish.
I loved the hero's gruff exterior melting into swoony devotion, the heroine's infectious energy, and their progression from prickly clashes to tender, heated connection that hits all the right notes. The side characters and comedic mishaps add extra fun without stealing the show.
While grumpy tropes are familiar, Hunter's sharp humor and emotional payoff elevate it beautifully. Overall, I’m giving Grumpily Ever After four stars. It’s a fun, spicy read perfect for fans of rom-coms with heart.
I loved the hero's gruff exterior melting into swoony devotion, the heroine's infectious energy, and their progression from prickly clashes to tender, heated connection that hits all the right notes. The side characters and comedic mishaps add extra fun without stealing the show.
While grumpy tropes are familiar, Hunter's sharp humor and emotional payoff elevate it beautifully. Overall, I’m giving Grumpily Ever After four stars. It’s a fun, spicy read perfect for fans of rom-coms with heart.
January 22, 2026
Noah is a former NHL hockey player turned bar owner, living a quiet life on his farmland. Odette is his little sister’s best friend—and the wedding planner for her upcoming barn wedding. With a twelve-year age gap, she’s always been off-limits.
When his sister decides to get married in Noah’s barn, there are only ten weeks to pull off a full renovation. Odette offers to help, putting them in close quarters and testing every boundary. Planning a wedding is stressful… but falling for the one woman he shouldn’t want might be worse.
This was a really cute best friend’s brother/sister’s best friend romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters felt relatable and easy to connect with, and the pets completely stole my heart. There was just the right amount of spice—enough to add heat without overpowering the story—and the ending was absolutely perfect.
When his sister decides to get married in Noah’s barn, there are only ten weeks to pull off a full renovation. Odette offers to help, putting them in close quarters and testing every boundary. Planning a wedding is stressful… but falling for the one woman he shouldn’t want might be worse.
This was a really cute best friend’s brother/sister’s best friend romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters felt relatable and easy to connect with, and the pets completely stole my heart. There was just the right amount of spice—enough to add heat without overpowering the story—and the ending was absolutely perfect.
January 12, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, brilliance audio, and Teagan Hunter for this early listening copy!!
Narration by and it was great! I loved the emotion & humor they brought!
This story was a cute, fun, but also steamy read!! Age gap, grumpy/sunshine, best friends brother. So many good things about this. It had me laughing, swooning, and also loving these characters so much! They were both so likable , but together they had so much chemistry! Both fighting against the feelings, but it made for such a fun listen!! Noah was so intent on helping prove Odette feelings against herself wrong and help her succeed!
Also, absolutely love a hilarious grandma figure and Nona was everything!
My first Teagan Hunter book and definitely won’t be my last!! 🥰
Narration by and it was great! I loved the emotion & humor they brought!
This story was a cute, fun, but also steamy read!! Age gap, grumpy/sunshine, best friends brother. So many good things about this. It had me laughing, swooning, and also loving these characters so much! They were both so likable , but together they had so much chemistry! Both fighting against the feelings, but it made for such a fun listen!! Noah was so intent on helping prove Odette feelings against herself wrong and help her succeed!
Also, absolutely love a hilarious grandma figure and Nona was everything!
My first Teagan Hunter book and definitely won’t be my last!! 🥰
January 2, 2026
Ok, listen, Odette needs to maybe rethink her career choices. While trying to plan her bestie's wedding, she is getting up close and personal with her BFF's brother, Noah. The same Noah she has had a crush on for years, and that is 12 years older than her. The ex-hockey player bought a property after retirement and this is the perfect spot to host the wedding. It just needs a little fixing up.
While Noah and Odette get closer and closer, they are still hiding they fact that they are together from her bestie. Odette never wants to get married (that was a lie, that was a lie) and Noah said he never wanted to get married again (also, a lie) but when the "right" person is sitting in front of you, how can you let them go? You can't. You rearrange your thoughts because of COURSE everyone deserves happiness.
There is one person in this book that does not, however, deserve happiness, but hopefully there will be more on that in the next book. Can't wait!
While Noah and Odette get closer and closer, they are still hiding they fact that they are together from her bestie. Odette never wants to get married (that was a lie, that was a lie) and Noah said he never wanted to get married again (also, a lie) but when the "right" person is sitting in front of you, how can you let them go? You can't. You rearrange your thoughts because of COURSE everyone deserves happiness.
There is one person in this book that does not, however, deserve happiness, but hopefully there will be more on that in the next book. Can't wait!
Read
January 4, 20263.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️ | 🎧
Thank you, NetGalley and Brilliance Audio, for the ALC.
This was my first Teagan Hunter book, and I will absolutely be reading more. I loved the Washington State setting, and the premise of the story was very cute. I did enjoy the characters, but I just had a hard time with the narration for the audiobook. Nothing against the writing, I actually enjoyed the story a lot, and I look forward to book two...Nelson Hobbs just doesn't do it for me.
Thank you, NetGalley and Brilliance Audio, for the ALC.
This was my first Teagan Hunter book, and I will absolutely be reading more. I loved the Washington State setting, and the premise of the story was very cute. I did enjoy the characters, but I just had a hard time with the narration for the audiobook. Nothing against the writing, I actually enjoyed the story a lot, and I look forward to book two...Nelson Hobbs just doesn't do it for me.
January 21, 2026
Noah and Odette both being anti marriage while Odette is a wedding planner and he’s trying to start hosting weddings at a venue he owns was hilarious. These two had fun banter and were a mess together while both secretly pining for the other. I really enjoyed this story and it was a great introduction to Teagan Hunter.
What you’ll get:
🩷Best Friend’s Older Brother
💍Wedding Planner x Ex Pro Hockey Player
💀Cursed?
💋Age Gap
🏡Small Town
Thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC.
What you’ll get:
🩷Best Friend’s Older Brother
💍Wedding Planner x Ex Pro Hockey Player
💀Cursed?
💋Age Gap
🏡Small Town
Thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC.
January 24, 2026
If Teagan Hunter writes it, I’m going to read it!
I loved Odette and Noah’s story. A grumpy retired NHL player and his sisters free spirited best friend who thinks she’s cursed with bad relationships? Sign me up! I love a forbidden, sneaky storyline especially when the two characters couldn’t be more opposite. This was a perfect spicy rom com.
I loved Odette and Noah’s story. A grumpy retired NHL player and his sisters free spirited best friend who thinks she’s cursed with bad relationships? Sign me up! I love a forbidden, sneaky storyline especially when the two characters couldn’t be more opposite. This was a perfect spicy rom com.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 Stars
Grumpy x sunshine is my catnip. Especially when the MMC is a secret softy for any woman in his life. Enter Izzy, Noah’s sister, who needs a venue for her wedding and has her heart set on his cidery. He’s the grumpiest of grumps and doesn’t want anything to do with weddings after his experience with his divorce and love.
Izzy’s best friend, Odette, also skeptical of true love - for herself - believes her family has a love curse and doesn’t think that it’s in the cards for her. However, she’s all in to make Izzy’s dreams come true. So, she goes full steam ahead to paint a picture for Noah as to how the cidery is the perfect space for Izzy’s wedding and an investment for future weddings down the line. Despite his skepticism about love, Noah is a businessman, and again... total softy. He doesn’t want to let Izzy down (and let’s be real, there’s something about Odette).
As wedding planning begins, Noah and Odette are forced to spend more time together. For better or worse, these two have chemistry that sparks off the page. As they navigate their working relationship, they discover their attraction is mutual and decide to secretly act on them, knowing it will only last until the wedding. Or will it?
Reading a romance where the FMC is skeptical about romance because of family history, yet you know deep down she wants the HEA, it’s fun to watch her fall in love. It’s even more satisfying when you have an MMC who thinks he’s going to avoid feelings and love yet he falls harder than she does.
The audio version of this book was performed by Nelson Hobbs and Chloe Ryan and was such a fun and memorable way to experience the story.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ALC and ARC to read/listen and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Grumpy x sunshine is my catnip. Especially when the MMC is a secret softy for any woman in his life. Enter Izzy, Noah’s sister, who needs a venue for her wedding and has her heart set on his cidery. He’s the grumpiest of grumps and doesn’t want anything to do with weddings after his experience with his divorce and love.
Izzy’s best friend, Odette, also skeptical of true love - for herself - believes her family has a love curse and doesn’t think that it’s in the cards for her. However, she’s all in to make Izzy’s dreams come true. So, she goes full steam ahead to paint a picture for Noah as to how the cidery is the perfect space for Izzy’s wedding and an investment for future weddings down the line. Despite his skepticism about love, Noah is a businessman, and again... total softy. He doesn’t want to let Izzy down (and let’s be real, there’s something about Odette).
As wedding planning begins, Noah and Odette are forced to spend more time together. For better or worse, these two have chemistry that sparks off the page. As they navigate their working relationship, they discover their attraction is mutual and decide to secretly act on them, knowing it will only last until the wedding. Or will it?
Reading a romance where the FMC is skeptical about romance because of family history, yet you know deep down she wants the HEA, it’s fun to watch her fall in love. It’s even more satisfying when you have an MMC who thinks he’s going to avoid feelings and love yet he falls harder than she does.
The audio version of this book was performed by Nelson Hobbs and Chloe Ryan and was such a fun and memorable way to experience the story.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ALC and ARC to read/listen and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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