From the Start

The Raider Brothers #3

by D.E. Haggerty

She dodges emotions and can scare away most people with a single glare. Too bad he showed up with a sledgehammer – and snacks.

Everyone on Smuggler’s Hideaway knows Kai Raider is the island’s resident goofball – sunshine in human form with a killer smile and an annoying habit of showing up when I least want him to. Which is always.

Because I don’t have time for flirty men with muscular chests, ocean-blue eyes I want to drown in, and unshakeable optimism. I’m too busy running a bar, caring for my grumpy father, and trying not to unravel.

I do not have time to fall into bed with a cheeky, younger man who makes me laugh when I’d rather growl. And yet… somehow, I do. And now I can’t stop thinking about the way he touches me like I’m his, kisses me like I’m a promise, and makes me want more than just a no-strings fling.

Kai says age doesn’t matter. He says I’m his dream girl, grumpy mood swings and all. That I deserve to be taken care of. That laughter isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.

He says he’s loved me From the Start. But can I trust him?

This reverse grumpy/sunshine small-town romantic comedy features a woman with no time for man-boys, a man-boy determined to prove he's more man than boy, and a band of prank-happy brothers who treat emotional growth like it’s a full-contact sport. Buckle up for inappropriate jokes, heartfelt swoons, and one grand gesture that proves the grumpy girl can fall hard – and love harder.

From the Start is a standalone novel in the Raider Brothers series.

Until it was Real – Rhett and Dakota’s story
For the Promise – Jaxon and Blossom’s story
From the Start – Kai and Harper’s story
Since you Arrived – Zane and Sloane’s story
After you Returned – Miles and Hazel’s story

Genres: Steamy, Contemporary

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 14, 2025

About the author

D.E. Haggerty is actually just plain old Dena, but she thinks using initials makes her sound like one of the cool kids. She was born and raised in the U.S. but has spent the majority of her adult life abroad living in cool-sounding places like Istanbul, Heidelberg, and The Hague. She has job hopped from military policewoman to lawyer to B&B owner. She finally jumped off the job hopping bandwagon a few years ago when she decided to turn her addiction to romance novels into a career. If anyone has ideas on how to turn a love of wine into a job, she's all ears.

Join her newsletter and get a FREE small town romantic comedy ➡️ https://dehaggerty.com/subscribe/

Reviews

[Kerry Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think Kai is my favourite after Rhett. He's goofy and kindhearted and absolutely obsessed with Harper, 8 years older than him.
She has a bar to run and a father who by the way, is hilarious, to care for. Fun is not on her agenda.
Kai wants to prove he can be the man for her.
I love the reverse age gap in this book, and how hard he had to work. Seeing her bring her walls down gave me all the feels.
Such big banter in this book2.
the series is fast becoming one of my favourite and I'm already on book4 as I write this review.
We touch on the loss of a parent to cancer and a stroke survivor. I have absolute empathy for the characters knowing what they went through. As with all this author's book, it's handled with empathy.
This is a fun, low angst. found family romance that will sweep you away.
Kerry Kennedy Author

[Jacklyn B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kai’s book is here!! I am really enjoying this series and was very excited to read Harper and Kai’s story. Yes they have amazing chemistry and I loved their banter, and this was a very fun read, but there was just something a little extra special about their relationship that really touched my heart.

Harper had so much she was dealing with and saw Kai as a little immature…and he really stepped up to the plate to win her
over!!! I loved how we get to see her be taken care of and help carry the weight of all her responsibilities.

He was so sweet and caring and went of his way to help Harper and her father - he was completely swoon worthy and it definitely leads to some emotional moments.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Smuggler’s Hideaway without some small town shenanigans and of course some Raider brother pranks!

Also, can I just say that I LOVED the chapter titles/captions!!! AND how fun was it that the speakeasy required a password for entry?!? Loved it!

✨What To Expect:
💖Romantic Comedy
🏡Small Town Vibes
💜Reverse Age Gap
🌦️Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🍭Cinnamon Roll MMC
💫Grand Gesture
😂Witty Banter
💞 Found family
🧜🏻‍♀️ Mermaids
🧨 Brotherly Pranks

[Emma (thecaffeinatedbookaholic) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way Kai has been down for Harper since the beginning!! He was determined to win her over, even though she wouldn’t give him the time of day. When he realized she didn’t take him seriously, this man stepped up. I mean can we talk about the way he showed up for her? The way he did everything he could to make her life easier, especially with her dad? Harper’s got the weight of the world on her shoulders, and I just wanted to give her a big hug. I loved watching Kai go from the carefree, “time is a social construct” goof to the golden retriever who helped Harper carry all the responsibilities she’d been taking on alone. I also loved getting to see more of the brothers and their antics, and I CANNOT WAIT for Zane’s story!!

[ARC review]

[D.E.]

From the Start is out now! Are you ready to fall for Kai?

She dodges emotions like a pro and can clear a room with one glare.
He’s younger, sunshine in human form… and hopelessly in love with her.

Harper doesn’t have time for flirty men with ocean-blue eyes and an annoying habit of showing up when she least wants him.

Too bad Kai’s been all-in from the start - and he’s not above using snacks, charm, and a sledgehammer to win her over.

Now the island’s resident grump is realizing that maybe falling for the goofball isn’t the worst thing that could happen.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being an Adult.
Watching this family of 6 brothers and their love interests in the vacation town of Smugglers Cove never has a dull moment. Kai and Harper have some unique dating challenges to address. I enjoyed the playful banter and pranks that take place throughout the story. Addressing age differences and relationship/commitment fears were woven throughout the plot, making it easy to empathize with the characters. It is nice to see love conquer all in the end.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

How I love this town and these characters!!

Kai is the youngest Raider brother, and has spent most of his time doing as little work as possible. Easy to do when you have super capable brothers, and a distillery that pretty much runs itself. So it's completely understandable that Harper, a business owner on her own, has no time or patience for this "man-child". Even if he's super helpful, super handsome, and determined to break down every single wall around your heart.

This has fantastic banter, laughable moments, and all the sweet and kind acts of service that Kai can do for Harper. I enjoyed her reactions to him, and his willingness to put it all on the line for her. You can enjoy this as a stand-alone, but much better (IMO) when you have the full backstories.

Fortunate to receive an ARC (thank you) I happily leave my thoughts.

[Book Nerdy 2020 · Rating 4 out of 5]

FROM THE START By D.E. Haggerty

Everyone on Smuggler’s Hideaway knows Kai Raider is the island’s resident goofball – sunshine in human form with a killer smile and an annoying habit of showing up when I least want him to. Which is always.
Because I don’t have time for flirty men with muscular chests, ocean-blue eyes I want to drown in, and unshakeable optimism. I’m too busy running a bar, caring for my grumpy father, and trying not to unravel.
I do not have time to fall into bed with a cheeky, younger man who makes me laugh when I’d rather growl. And yet… somehow, I do. And now I can’t stop thinking about the way he touches me like I’m his, kisses me like I’m a promise, and makes me want more than just a no-strings fling.
Kai says age doesn’t matter. He says I’m his dream girl, grumpy mood swings and all. That I deserve to be taken care of. That laughter isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.
He says he’s loved me From the Start. But can I trust him?

😊What i liked -

✔Reverse Age Gap/Opposites Attract/Reverse Grumpy-Sunshine/Found Family/Small Town.
✔Kai is one Goofy guy and absolutely smitten with Harper. I loved how Harper tried not to show she was affected with our boy Kai. Kai and Harper's fathers relationship was so good to read about. I loved how Kai slowly and steadily broke down her walls (with help, obviously). Again like all of Haggerty's books this one too had tons of feels and quirky banter. But this one has more feels but even warmsies and spice.

🤔What could have been better-

✔ It did slow down but just a bit.

📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lover
💕Reverse Age Gap Romance
🏡Small Town Romance

📈My Rating : 4/5

Thank you, D.E. Haggerty, for a copy.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another delightful visit to Smuggler's Hideaway with it's zany characters, it's traditions, myths and legends.
Kai Raider is besotted with bar owner, Harper Poole, even though she is eight years older than him but Kai's charm doesn't work with Harper, she has no time for a man child........but can Kai tear her barriers down ?
Kai is the youngest of the six Raider brothers, the brothers own a whiskey distillery bought for them by their millionaire oldest brother, Eli. Kai has been protected by his five older brothers who looked after him when their father walked out, he is the handsome joker with a smile that lights up the room and twinkling blue eyes, the one who manages to shy away from work and responsibility, that is until Harper became his focus.
Grumpy, straight talking, shoot from the hips Harper's life was hard, not only was she looking after her grumpy, disabled father, she was also running Rumrunner, a speakeasy type bar with only Sloan as her assistant. Harper was fighting to keep her head above water, money was tight and she was working all hours, she didn't need a goofy man child to complicate her life even further but Kai was determined.
As this story unfolds, Kai sets about wooing Harper in the most caring and often hilarious way and in front of her eyes, the goofball, pranking man child turned into a hard working, caring man, a man who would hang the moon for her........but was that enough ?
I love the crazy Raider brothers, their pranks but most of all their family values, I love the close knit community of Smuggler's Hideaway, not forgetting Sammy the seal
I received a free copy of this book and my review is totally voluntary.

[Smutty Professor · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the Start is pure small-town, slow-burn magic with a twist- this time it’s a reverse age-gap, grumpy/sunshine romance that had me grinning, swooning, and tearing up.

Kai Raider has always been the island’s lovable troublemaker- the youngest of six brothers, famous for his charm, goofy streak, and uncanny ability to avoid responsibility. But the second he decides Harper is it for him, he’s all in. The problem is that Harper wants nothing to do with a man eight years younger, especially one she’s convinced is still a man-child.

Harper’s life leaves no room for distractions. Between running her speakeasy-style bar and caring for her ailing father, she’s used to carrying the weight of the world on her own. She’s not interested in romance, especially with someone who might add to her burdens. But Kai’s relentless in the best way- showing up with small acts of service, unexpected sweetness, and enough determination to prove he’s more man than boy.

There's witty banter and loads of chemistry between our MMC and FMC, and the island setting has the kind of quirky side characters (and meddlesome brothers) that make Smuggler’s Hideaway feel like a place you would want to live. This romance is about letting go of control, learning to accept help, and realizing that sometimes the person you least expect is exactly the one you need.

If you love small-town hijinks, a sunshine hero who refuses to quit, and a grumpy heroine who slowly learns to trust again, From the Start will absolutely steal your heart. I can't wait for Zane's story!

[Cheryl Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

After another hilarious visit to Smuggler’s Hideaway, I was blown away by how hard Kai worked to win Harper over.

Kai is the youngest of the Raider brothers. He coasts through life without taking much responsibility. Then he suddenly saw Harper in a new light.

"She’s strong and beautiful. I want her in my bed and in my life. But she won’t give me the time of day. I’ll change her mind. I’ll deal with a ton of sh*t from my brothers in the meantime, but I will change her mind eventually."

Grumpy Harper runs a 'speakeasy' and also looks after her ailing father, so has no time for dalliances and wouldn't consider dating someone she considers to be a man-child, then she saw him jump off a stage.

"My breath nearly catches at the acrobatic move and how his abs contract as he lands. He prowls toward me and I can’t help myself from staring at the muscles on his chest and arms. I didn’t think men with this type of muscle definition existed outside of the romance novels I love to read when no one’s looking."

However Harper won't be easily won over. There's the age gap for one.

This book is as much about accepting help as about growing up. All set on Smuggler's Hideaway where Sammy the seal keeps blocking the road and the inhabitants are invested in the outcome of Kai's attempts to win Harper over.

[Krissy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. This was so much more than just a grumpy-sunshine/ reverse age-gap romance! Kai is the youngest Raider brother (the 'baby') so his brothers have coddled him thus far and because of that, he's able to coast through life without much seriousness or responsibilites. This attitude backfires on him when he tries to get Harper's attention and she brushes him off as a man-child. Harper has not had an easy life with caring for her father whilst running a speakeasy so she definitely doesn't want anything to do with Kai who she sees as another burden she will need to look after and who will rely on her. I love how we see Kai matures in this book as he internalises his actions and emotions and how they may come across to others- his brothers, family and definitely Harper, and how he owns his mistakes and starts to change. His being upfront about his feelings and willingness to put it all on the line for Harper and all the things he does to ease her struggles was really sweet. Her reaction towards him starts to change as she realises he's genuine in his actions and words and she starts to fall for him slowly but surely and we have a really sweet HEA at the end. As always, you can expect sassiness, funny moments, witty banter and all the emotions and feels that will have you swooning, laughing, smiling and crying happy tears.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the Start was exactly the kind of slow-burn, heart-squeeze romance I didn’t know I needed until I was completely hooked. I loved the twist on the grumpy/sunshine dynamic—watching a tough, no-nonsense heroine try (and fail) to resist a persistent, snack-bearing golden retriever of a man was pure joy. Kai is younger, bolder, and somehow always showing up with just the right kind of backup—whether it’s bad jokes, a soft smile, or a whole tray of snacks. And let me tell you, the chemistry between these two? It built slow and sweet, and then exploded in the most satisfying way. If you’ve ever fallen for someone who makes you laugh when you least expect it, this book will hit you right in the feels.
What really made this story shine for me was the found family vibe and the brother-led prank wars that added warmth and chaos in all the best ways. The island setting felt like a whole personality on its own, and every side character brought something real and lovable to the table. Our heroine’s glare could definitely kill, but Kai never once flinched—he just kept showing up, telling her she deserved softness, care, and something real. And the way he said she was his from the start? Yeah, I melted. This book made me laugh, swoon, and believe a little harder in love that doesn’t ask you to change—it just shows up with snacks and refuses to let you go.

[JessRReynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally! We get to see Kai’s relentless attempts to woo Harper! Kai is such an interesting character. As the youngest, he has grown up with older brothers who coddled him, to make up for his father leaving, but he doesn’t realize it. He is trying to shake the “big child” persona that he has lived and breathed his whole life, starting to be reliable, especially for Harper. Harper has had a sad, stressful life, with no one to depend on, and she thinks Kai is too young for her. Boy, do we see how much Kai has changed! If only Harper would accept the changes!

This story was slightly different than the others, in that we got a little more background from the Raider matriarch, which I was happy to see! In my opinion the grand gesture could’ve been grander. I’ll chock that up to Harper being too busy!

I had a whole range of emotions with this one, I laughed a lot and got a little teary. I got mad at characters and got over it quickly (just like the characters!) This addition to the Raider brother series was much anticipated and leads us into a storyline that I can honestly say I did not see coming!

[Chicken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whenever I see a new Dena book hit my Kindle, I know I’m in for a treat—and From the Start didn’t disappoint. Dena always delivers fast-paced stories filled with fun, memorable characters, and this one had me hooked from page one.

This reverse grumpy/sunshine romance follows a fiercely independent heroine who doesn’t have time for love—or for Kai Raider, the island’s resident goofball with a sledgehammer smile and a knack for showing up when least wanted. Their dynamic is hilarious and heartfelt, full of flirty banter, unexpected tenderness, and a chemistry you can’t help but root for.

One of my favorite things about Dena’s books is how alive her settings feel. Smuggler’s Hideaway is packed with quirky charm, and I love catching glimpses of characters from previous books. The Raider brothers are as meddling (and entertaining) as ever, and their antics make the emotional moments hit even harder.

This is a perfect escape read—funny, swoony, and full of heart. If you love small-town romance, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and heroes who refuse to take “go away” for an answer, From the Start is one you don’t want to miss.

[Silvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!!!

I initially wasn’t sure about Kai, especially since he’s been immature in the past books and his whole “Time is a construct to bring the man down” nonsense. He certainly didn’t pull his weight at the distillery and was unreliable. Surely he was not the right guy for a woman who had so much on her plate and didn’t have any time for herself, right?

As attractive as Kai was, Harper did not find Kai’s immaturity cute. She had no time for herself, let alone taking on someone like Kai who’d probably just be one more person she had to take care of.

It turns out, that sometimes all a boy needs to turn into a man is the right woman!

I enjoyed seeing Kai basically grow up and man up for Harper and her dad. He had some rough moments in the beginning, but by midway he had me swooning! While I loved Harper, I wasn’t thrilled that she was so quick to jump the gun and jump to conclusions at the first sign of trouble.

Harper’s dad, and his fruit loop obsession, definitely deserve a mention! Yes, he was a PITA, but he was also very funny!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my opinion.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harpers life is anything but easy. Between looking after her dad since his stroke and running the towns speakeasy, she has no time for a social life. Now she has the man-child Kai Raider pursuing her. Does he realise I don't need to be childminding him as well as everything else. Kai knows how everybody sees him, the youngest of the six Raider boys. Maybe he does some foolish things. But since he finally realised she was the one, he's tried to show her he can be grown up. Harper really is her own enemy always letting her mind run wild looking for problems. Both characters have their own insecurities that makes it hard for relationships. Plus the gossip and the poll the residents of Smugglers Hideaway have only add too the complicated problems. Between the eight year age gap and Kai's goofy behaviour will they ever be able to have a relationship. Can Kai win her over with his kind gestures. Sit back and enjoy this spicy, feisty funny story that will have you wishing Smugglers Hideaway was real.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

"From The Start" by D. E. Haggerty is a brilliant continuation of the series that had me hooked from page one. The small-town setting provides the perfect cozy backdrop, enhancing the charm and relatability of the story.

Haggerty’s signature humor shines throughout, delivering laugh-out-loud moments that blend seamlessly with heartfelt scenes. The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, each with unique quirks and depth that make them feel like old friends. Their dynamic interactions add richness to the narrative, making it impossible to put the book down.

The plot flows effortlessly, balancing wit, romance, and intrigue with a natural ease. It’s smooth without feeling predictable, keeping readers engaged with delightful twists and turns. The happy ending wraps things up perfectly, leaving a satisfying, warm feeling long after the last page.

For fans of small-town charm, sharp wit, and memorable characters, "From The Start" is a must-read. D. E. Haggerty has delivered another gem that’s both heartwarming and hilariously entertaining!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Smuggler's Hideaway, but this time we get to learn about Kai! The baby of the Raider brother's. I knew I would like his character, but I LOVED HIM SO MUCH! I loved that this was a reverse Grumpy x Sunshine and a reverse Age Gap.

Harper has a lot going on with working and caring for her father. She does not have time for a younger man flirting with her non-stop. But Kai knows what he want, and he wants Harper.

I loved all the things Kai did for Harper, even when it made her mad. I get Harper's feelings because I was a caregiver for my Dad when he had to learn to walk again after a surgery.

Kai is the type of MMC that you just have to love. There is no way to hate him. He was charming and caring. The things he did for Harper's dad made me so emotional because it reminded me so much of my husband. I really loved their story.

I can't wait until we get Zane's story! His chapter made me laugh... 😂.

[Cheryl Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was so much about this book that I could personally relate to. I really enjoyed reading this story. Harper Struggles with the age difference between Kai and herself. I struggled with this myself in my marriage, but mine was only 6 years. But, age truly doesn't matter, the heart does! I loved how Kai set out to prove he wasn't simply the baby of the Raider brothers. I was also the baby of the family, spoiled rotten yet always loved. I did miss some of the antics these brothers do to each other but understood the need for personal growth for Kai. My favorite support character for this book was definitely Harper's dad. What a hoot!!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. He would be a great storyteller, just to sit and listen to all his tales would be great. He also has excellent taste in cereal! I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next book in the Raider Brother series! What a great, quirky place to live!!

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Proving himself for love
This is book 3 of The Raider Brothers series and follows the youngest brother Kai and his infatuation with the gorgeous bar owner of RumRunner, Harper.
It’s an age gap story (her being 8 years older) with a grumpy / sunshine trope as well.
Harper is the grump to Kai’s sunshine.
I loved the story of him trying everything he possibly could to woo her.
If only Harper could open her eyes and heart to see the real Kai and that the man he was becoming was exactly what she wanted.
It was great to catch up with all the other characters from the previous two books and that the brother’s antics had not changed.
That the prank wars were definitely alive and happening with some funny moments throughout the book.
A fun storyline with great characters.
Looking forward to reading Zane’s story next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ღ BOOK REVIEW ღ
📖 From The Start

𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔~

From The Start is Kai and Harper’s story. He is the youngest Raider brother and you have to love him I don’t know how you couldn’t. To get what he really wants which has been Harper for awhile he self reflects and we see another side of him all sweet, caring and charming. He didn’t give and give her what she needed. Harper is all grumpy and all work no play but she really does have so much on her plate. These two balanced each other out.

I really enjoy this quirky little coastal town. The love this family has for each other. I like the reverse age gap and that Harper really had to get past the age difference, I could relate to that with my own life.

If you enjoy a good reverse age gap (24/32-8 yrs), grumpy/sunshine, small-town romantic comedy you should give the series a read. This could be read as a standalone but the brothers, other characters are untwined that you would get more enjoyment reading in order.

[Brittnie Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love how familiar Smuggler’s Hideaway feels now—it’s like wrapping up in your favorite comfort blanket while watching a Hallmark movie. I know the island, the faces, the Raider brothers (each amazing in their own way), and all the little traditions and events that make this place come alive. I especially love catching glimpses of the brothers throughout each book—it makes the series feel like home, and somehow, it just gets better every time.

I’ll admit, I was a little worried about Kai. He’s always been the island goofball, the one no one really takes seriously. But his story with Harper? Absolutely perfect. He stepped up for her in every way, proving he’s so much more than his playful exterior. He was exactly what she needed—the perfect balance to her guarded heart—and watching their relationship unfold was everything I hoped for and more.

This series fits together beautifully, each story building on the last while still delivering that satisfying HEA I crave. And that sneak peek of Zane’s story? I’m reeling—I cannot wait to get his book!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually May-December romances involve a younger woman-older man and, while not promoted, are not blinked at. A younger man-older woman relationship often casts the woman as a “cougar”, unflattering at best. This is a lovely story of a man falling for a woman and “age is just a number”. Age isn’t necessarily a reflection of maturity and, given a clear goal (being a responsible adult to help Harper with her burdens), rising to a challenge evens the score. Kai is very attracted to Harper but doesn’t really know what problems she’s dealing with. Through getting to know her, Kai learns a lot about himself. His feelings for Harper deepen and mature and he commits to supporting her and bringing fun and goofiness to her life. A really sweet story with lots of Raider high jinx.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harper & Kai

This reverse age-gap, grumpy/sunshine romcom was quite amusing. I loved how Kai had to work to get Harper's attention, get her to take him seriously, and allow him to break down her defensive walls. It was hard for Harper to give up a single measure of control at home or at work running, and owning, the speakeasy themed bar, Rumrunner. Kai has to fight Harper to get her to allow him to do the simplest things as a gift to her. Watching Kai go from time/schedule adverse to responsible emotional partner to a woman nearly a decade was very entertaining. At the same time, Kai was teaching Harper that if she will just accept a little assistance when she needs it, life can be fun and considerably less stressful if she can give up a measure of control.

I received a free advance copy of this story from BookSirens and voluntarily chose to share my review.

[Books_and_coco · Rating 5 out of 5]

🥣 From the start - ARC Review 🥣

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Back in Smuggler’s Hideaway and I’m obsessed all over again! This one is definitely my fav ! @dehaggerty writing is so funny and sharp, and I loved how this one flipped the script : reverse grumpy x sunshine and a reverse age gap.

Kai, the youngest Raider brother, is all charm and mischief… until Harper. She’s older, grumpier, running a speakeasy while caring for her dad, and has zero time for a “man-child.” But Kai’s all in fixing things, showing up, taking care of both her and her dad. I melted 🫠

The banter’s hilarious, the chemistry’s off the charts, and watching Kai grow into someone Harper can depend on was pure joy. Add meddling brothers, quirky locals, and Sammy the seal, and it’s small-town romance perfection !

Thank you so much @dehaggerty for this ARC ! 🤩

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the Start is a romantic comedy with heart and you will not be able to put it down. The storyline is perfectly written with small town shennigans, outrageous characters, and a smugglers charm. This book is a twist on the grumpy sunshine age gap trope in that Harper is the grumpy older woman burdened with responsibilities an business to run and a Dad to take care of. Although I do take umbrage with 31 being called the older woman but with Kai's 24 years I guess I'll have to deal with it. As the youngest of the 6 Raider brothers he is thought of as the goofy, sunshine on a stick brother always looking for fun. It was fun to watch Kia grow into the man he was always meant to be he just needed someone to care for. This book has every feeling you could ever want and outrageous siblings, parents and Hank so reminded me of my Dad I laughed and cried. You will love this one

[Kandiemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three of The Raider Brothers series. I love how dedicated the Raider brothers are, just totally swoon worthy. Kai Raider had hearts in my eyes and I couldn't help but wonder what in the heck was wrong with Harper. There isn't as much of the shenanigans from the brothers in this book but I'm not mad at it. It's actually a really sweet story. Harper had it rough and I'm glad Kai set his sights on her. I'm definitely looking to read it again cause it's just that good. Let's face it I'd be crazy not to give it five stars and recommendations. I can't wait to read Zane's story next, that's gonna be a doozy.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Danelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these Raider brothers! It’s Kai’s turn. He’s been chasing Harper for months. She won’t give him the time of day because he’s eight years younger than she and basically a man-child. Kai is out to prove he’s grown up and ready to settle down any way he can. Which includes helping Harper have some long forgotten fun. Harper is too busy taking care of her bar and her father to waste time having fun. What ensues is typical hilarious Smugglers Hideaway style. The other brothers and their girlfriend/wives help out to ensure these two see they are meant for each other. It’s a wonderful story that is full of love and pranks, Raider style. Definitely recommend. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Staci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kia and Harper’s story has them coming together when he tries to show her that he has matured and can be counted on. As the youngest of the Raider bros, he has had it easier than the others. But now that he has strong feelings for the bar owner who has a lot of responsibilities such as taking care of her dad and running one of the bars on the island. This story is a cute younger male/older female, responsible/carefree story that shows how the youngest Raider boy comes into his own while figuring out how to become the man he needs to be for the woman of him. And Harper learns that she’s not alone with the whole Raider family gets behind her. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Teon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely loving this series about the Raider brothers finding the women who are perfect for each of them. I am thankful to have received a copy of this book so I can share my thoughts and feelings about it. Kai is the baby of the Raider brood of 6 brothers. He is known for partying and blowing off work at the business he owns with is brothers. This suddenly changes when he falls for Harper, a hardworking bar owner who carries the responsibility of a business and a father who needs extra care after he had a life altering stroke. I have to tell you what I enjoyed the most about this book is how light, fun and enjoyable it was while still dealing with serious, real world issues. While reading it, I found myself smiling and chuckling.