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Time Out, Valentine
Lexi’s life is one big dump. Or so she thinks. To keep her mind off her latest breakup, she stays busy with work. It’s no big deal, since writing for Time Out Portland Magazine is a blast…except for the one small snag – Grant Reeds.
Grant, a shy but sexy computer geek, is new to Time Out, working as the Networking Director for the online magazine. Even though Lexi thinks he doesn’t notice her, he sure as hell does. The owners have a plan for their upcoming Valentine’s Special, pairing up the two to explore romantic date ideas around the city.
Soon, Lexi and Grant learn that the old adage, “Opposites Attract,” can ring true.
Grant, a shy but sexy computer geek, is new to Time Out, working as the Networking Director for the online magazine. Even though Lexi thinks he doesn’t notice her, he sure as hell does. The owners have a plan for their upcoming Valentine’s Special, pairing up the two to explore romantic date ideas around the city.
Soon, Lexi and Grant learn that the old adage, “Opposites Attract,” can ring true.
- GenresRomance
82 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2015
About the author
Melinda Dozier
14 books120 followersReading romance has always been at the top of Melinda's favorite past times. You can always find a book in her hands no matter where she is. Melinda is Louisiana born, New Mexico raised, Guatemala adopted, and recently a newcomer to Houston, Texas. So, it's only natural that her stories take place all across the world. Melinda loves reading, reality TV, traveling, blogging, and playing Words with Friends.
Learn more about her at http://booksbymelindadozier.com
Learn more about her at http://booksbymelindadozier.com
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 14, 2014
I got this book as an ARC and spent a delightful December afternoon racing through it.
Lexi and Grant work at the same magazine company. Lexi is bubbly, outgoing and a little snarky, while Grant is more quiet and reserved. A work assignment throws them together, which uncovers their barely concealed mutual attraction.
This was a really fantastic, fun and quirky young twenty something romance. Has enough steam to make it spicy, but is still fundamentally sweet. Loved the geeky/sexy male lead, Grant and I loved Lexi's voice. She's sassy and relatable. I thought Dozier did an excellent job of capturing her characters. It's a first real love story and explores very nicely how both Lexi and Grant are learning what they want in a relationship and learning how to be themselves when someone they really care about. Definitely an experience most everyone can relate to! I always love to see relationships in books where I could completely picture the happy couple in real life. I could see myself knowing Lexi and Grant or being friends with them, which made it especially enjoyable.
Lexi and Grant work at the same magazine company. Lexi is bubbly, outgoing and a little snarky, while Grant is more quiet and reserved. A work assignment throws them together, which uncovers their barely concealed mutual attraction.
This was a really fantastic, fun and quirky young twenty something romance. Has enough steam to make it spicy, but is still fundamentally sweet. Loved the geeky/sexy male lead, Grant and I loved Lexi's voice. She's sassy and relatable. I thought Dozier did an excellent job of capturing her characters. It's a first real love story and explores very nicely how both Lexi and Grant are learning what they want in a relationship and learning how to be themselves when someone they really care about. Definitely an experience most everyone can relate to! I always love to see relationships in books where I could completely picture the happy couple in real life. I could see myself knowing Lexi and Grant or being friends with them, which made it especially enjoyable.
January 7, 2015
Love,love, loved this book. The perfect short romantically written book. I thought that the storyline was fresh, hip and current. The chemistry between co workers Lexi and Grant was erotic and unstoppable. I would recommend this book to everyone who believes in love. It really hit home because my husband and I were co workers as well. Strongly encourage you to read this book you will fall in love with this author.
January 21, 2015
wow
I received this book as ARC from the author.
It is very well written and a inspiration short story.
I am really looking forward to reading more from Melinda.
The story is so believable situation you could seriously see you're self in lexi place.
The chemistry between lexi and grant been thrown together for valentines assignment. Which has her head over heals that man could be so prefect.
Highly recommended by louise 'loppy lou" book blog page
I received this book as ARC from the author.
It is very well written and a inspiration short story.
I am really looking forward to reading more from Melinda.
The story is so believable situation you could seriously see you're self in lexi place.
The chemistry between lexi and grant been thrown together for valentines assignment. Which has her head over heals that man could be so prefect.
Highly recommended by louise 'loppy lou" book blog page
January 8, 2015
Such a fun, fast read! The perfect cure to a slow afternoon. Grant is a sexy, smart hero who's perfectly off-set by the sassy, contemporary heroine, Lexi. Their by-play was a hoot and their chemistry was off the charts hot! Melinda is a wonderful writer who gave depth to everyone in this fantabulous read, all the way down to the type of ex we love to hate. Guaranteed to leave you with a smile. :)
January 7, 2015
Adorable light read. Thank goodness, restored my faith in ARC! I was in a slump with a few DNF's in a row, but this just a great fun read. Yes, clichey and super sweet- but as long as it is well written (which it was) I don't mind. Would have been nice if it was a full novel though, it was too short!
January 12, 2015
Lexi is a young lady working at Time Out. Lexi has had a bad run of luck with men and is about to write them off when her supervisor's put out a contest for the crew that works for them. They are to research places for special Valentine's dates and report back in a column as to what they found in their research. Lexi is paired up with the last person in the office that she wants to be with, Grant. Lexi thinks that Grant is a geek because he works with computers and wears glasses. Grant just recently started working for the same company and Lexi thinks that Grant should have at least given her a second glance or something but he has not. Lexi is perplexed by Grant and does not want to work with him at all.
To Lexi's surprise, Grant is a really nice guy and has only been hiding his glances at her and they way that he truly feels about her. Grant is taken back with how Lexi acts at first but once they warm up to each other and go out on their first research date, things tend to heat up. A little alcohol and the truths about each others feelings start coming to light. Lexi is so relieved that she and Grant have gotten paired up with each other now that she has gotten to know him a little better and even thinks that his geeky glasses are sexy!!
As Grant and Lexi do more and more research for their column, they become close and closer. During their research, Grant figures out that their supervisor's had set them up because they wanted then to get together and knew that if they just spent a little time with each other, they would hit it off.
This was such a well written short story that I flew right through it!! I could so see this story being made into a cute Hallmark movie!! Thanks Melinda for giving us another great read!!
To Lexi's surprise, Grant is a really nice guy and has only been hiding his glances at her and they way that he truly feels about her. Grant is taken back with how Lexi acts at first but once they warm up to each other and go out on their first research date, things tend to heat up. A little alcohol and the truths about each others feelings start coming to light. Lexi is so relieved that she and Grant have gotten paired up with each other now that she has gotten to know him a little better and even thinks that his geeky glasses are sexy!!
As Grant and Lexi do more and more research for their column, they become close and closer. During their research, Grant figures out that their supervisor's had set them up because they wanted then to get together and knew that if they just spent a little time with each other, they would hit it off.
This was such a well written short story that I flew right through it!! I could so see this story being made into a cute Hallmark movie!! Thanks Melinda for giving us another great read!!
January 12, 2015
Right from page one, I connected with Lexi. At the start of the story, she's typing a list of snarky comebacks that she wished she would've said when her boyfriend dumped her the night before. I can totally relate to that as I'm never able to think on my feet and come up with a witty comeback. lol. The love interest, Grant, was super sexy, and I thought he was a prefect match for Lexi. The two got along very well, and the chemistry between them was fantastic. They have cutesy nicknames for each other, too, which was adorable the first few times they were used. But I felt they were overused at times.
It is a novella, so I expected the story to progress quickly, and it did! But despite the fast pace, it was very narrative heavy. I would've liked to have a bit more action, maybe some more dialogue, too. I was also expecting the back and forth between Grant and Lexi to progress and be drawn out more, to have that sexual tension carry us through most of the story, but it didn't. There was a bit of tension between them at the start, but they were quickly getting past it and hooking up. Don't get me wrong, their time together was H.O.T., but I personally love the "love to hate and hate to love" dynamic, and having read Melinda's others books, she's a master at this. I was really hoping there would've been more of it in this book, too.
Overall, Time Out, Valentine is a fun, heartfelt, feel good book. It's a great, quick read for a lazy afternoon or a cold evening curled up in bed. I highly recommend it.
It is a novella, so I expected the story to progress quickly, and it did! But despite the fast pace, it was very narrative heavy. I would've liked to have a bit more action, maybe some more dialogue, too. I was also expecting the back and forth between Grant and Lexi to progress and be drawn out more, to have that sexual tension carry us through most of the story, but it didn't. There was a bit of tension between them at the start, but they were quickly getting past it and hooking up. Don't get me wrong, their time together was H.O.T., but I personally love the "love to hate and hate to love" dynamic, and having read Melinda's others books, she's a master at this. I was really hoping there would've been more of it in this book, too.
Overall, Time Out, Valentine is a fun, heartfelt, feel good book. It's a great, quick read for a lazy afternoon or a cold evening curled up in bed. I highly recommend it.
January 9, 2015
Funny, Sweet, laugh out loud...Really touching..
Grant Reeds is a totally geek and Lexi found herself being paired up with him on this experiment her bosses thought would boost ratings for Time Out magazine.. The assignment involved them going out finding out why Portland is the most romantic city? Which involved checking out the local hang out spots..maybe some Romantic setting's, "Special foods, treats", things like that....each reporter was assigned a partner. It was kind of difficult when Lexi found out who she was being paired up with. She was not too happy. The big incentive was a trip to Mexico.
So each of them made an effort to create a romantic setting. It was only supposed to make pretend so to speak, not for real. Well the more they hung out with each other a little spark was created. Will they give into this attraction? Because Lexi was tired of being dumped, and having her heart stomped all over. You'll have to purchase a copy of this wonderful novella to see for yourself..
I highly recommend...It maybe short, but it doesn't feel like it...It just makes you contact with these two.
Grant Reeds is a totally geek and Lexi found herself being paired up with him on this experiment her bosses thought would boost ratings for Time Out magazine.. The assignment involved them going out finding out why Portland is the most romantic city? Which involved checking out the local hang out spots..maybe some Romantic setting's, "Special foods, treats", things like that....each reporter was assigned a partner. It was kind of difficult when Lexi found out who she was being paired up with. She was not too happy. The big incentive was a trip to Mexico.
So each of them made an effort to create a romantic setting. It was only supposed to make pretend so to speak, not for real. Well the more they hung out with each other a little spark was created. Will they give into this attraction? Because Lexi was tired of being dumped, and having her heart stomped all over. You'll have to purchase a copy of this wonderful novella to see for yourself..
I highly recommend...It maybe short, but it doesn't feel like it...It just makes you contact with these two.
January 24, 2015
I received a copy for review.
I loved this book. I mean, how can you not love a book where the first sentence is "Out of 100,000 sperm you were the fastest?" The love/hate relationship Lexie and Grant have is fun to watch as it unravels into a love relationship. I love how you have Lexie who has sworn off men, Grant who won't do office relationships anymore and their bosses who pair them up for a romantic project for Time Out.
This book had me happy, giddy, embarrassed and mad at times. Yet, I still couldn't put it. Grant and Lexie drew me to them. I could picture Grant as having the looks of Leonard from Big Bang Theory and Lexie being Penny. There was just something about them that made me think of that show and those two. I guess it was the unlikely couple duo.
Melinda Dozier did a fabulous job drawing you in. I only wish it was longer but OMG the ending I did NOT see coming. You're going to have to read it to find out what happens.
5/5 rating
I loved this book. I mean, how can you not love a book where the first sentence is "Out of 100,000 sperm you were the fastest?" The love/hate relationship Lexie and Grant have is fun to watch as it unravels into a love relationship. I love how you have Lexie who has sworn off men, Grant who won't do office relationships anymore and their bosses who pair them up for a romantic project for Time Out.
This book had me happy, giddy, embarrassed and mad at times. Yet, I still couldn't put it. Grant and Lexie drew me to them. I could picture Grant as having the looks of Leonard from Big Bang Theory and Lexie being Penny. There was just something about them that made me think of that show and those two. I guess it was the unlikely couple duo.
Melinda Dozier did a fabulous job drawing you in. I only wish it was longer but OMG the ending I did NOT see coming. You're going to have to read it to find out what happens.
5/5 rating
January 12, 2015
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I'm going more toward a 3.5, but listed at 4 due to pure cuteness.
What a great concept for the plot! Fellow co-workers for an online magazine get thrown together by their bosses to write stories on the best places in their city to 'date' for Valentine's Day. HOW they come up with their story is completely up to them. For the characters in Time Out, that means actually going out on dates. And, falling in love, of course!
Ms. Dozier put together a quick, easy-to-read contemporary romance. A bit quirky, the characters were definitely chuckle worthy a few times.
My issue which pulls me more toward that 3.5 is there are a handful of dialogue / cliche moments where I really felt Ms. Dozier could have made a little more impact.
If you're looking for an easy, light-hearted read, this is a story you must pick up!
I'm going more toward a 3.5, but listed at 4 due to pure cuteness.
What a great concept for the plot! Fellow co-workers for an online magazine get thrown together by their bosses to write stories on the best places in their city to 'date' for Valentine's Day. HOW they come up with their story is completely up to them. For the characters in Time Out, that means actually going out on dates. And, falling in love, of course!
Ms. Dozier put together a quick, easy-to-read contemporary romance. A bit quirky, the characters were definitely chuckle worthy a few times.
My issue which pulls me more toward that 3.5 is there are a handful of dialogue / cliche moments where I really felt Ms. Dozier could have made a little more impact.
If you're looking for an easy, light-hearted read, this is a story you must pick up!
December 16, 2014
I got an ARC from the author and I loved the book. It's my first from the author and I will definitely be getting more. This book was sweet. It was interesting to see both characters overcome their misunderstanding and proceed forward in their relationship. The one thing I had an issue with was that they moved too fast (at least in my opinion). But then again, this is fiction and romance, so it may be a moot point. At any rate, besides that little hiccup, it was a fantastic read which does "prove" that opposites do indeed attract :)
January 8, 2015
So much fun! The heat between Lexi and Grant is a palpable tension that the reader feels from page one in this fun romp of a story! Lexi's been hurt in the past and swears off men, but who can resist sweet, geeky Grant? Besides, one kiss from him... yowza!
Be prepared for some fun dates and sizzling love scenes! These two are hot! I spent an enjoyable evening watching their love unfold and it was time well spent! Highly recommend this title and can't wait for this author's next!
Be prepared for some fun dates and sizzling love scenes! These two are hot! I spent an enjoyable evening watching their love unfold and it was time well spent! Highly recommend this title and can't wait for this author's next!
January 8, 2015
I received this book as an ARC from the author, it is well written, and a lovely short story, I look forward to seeing more from this author. The storyline is so believable and you can wholly see yourself in Lexi's situation or probably have already, an probably reacted the same, with any or each of the events and situations, I know I did ;) my hubby is the epitome of Grant, the geeky computer dude, so I can fully relate to this heartfelt novella. Keep them books coming :)
January 22, 2015
This was such a great little story. Loved the characters and their spunky personalities. Great concept and an easy read. I have recently discovered short stories and I have to say that its a nice change-up. I read this in one quick sitting which as a mother of two small kids, is a wonderful thing. I nice romantic fix in a short time frame makes mommy a happy lady.
January 23, 2015
This was a cute and very funny story... it was well written and was a real quick read. I wanted more when it was over... the characters were so easy to relate to because it felt like they were someone you knew or could be you. I recommend this to all who love a good story and would like to laugh with good phrases.
January 21, 2015
This was a sweet and sexy novella. I enjoyed the two main characters, each with their little quirks. Ms. Dozier brings a lightheartedness (yes my made up word), to opposites attract. 4.6/5. I look forward to reading more from her. **I received this E-ARC in exchange for an honest review. **
January 21, 2015
Two people are forced to work together on an article for the magazine they work for. Valentine's is one of the most romantic times of year. While doing their research sparks start to fly. Loved this one and I really liked the humor.
January 26, 2015
Melinda Dozier never disappoints! I loved her first book, Breaking the Rules, and I still think about the amazing chemistry between the good doctor and Hope. Chemistry abounds in this new novella! Lexi and Grant are two opposites that ignite the best kind of sparks with every strike. I've always loved a man in glasses, and Grant is one of the hottest I've ever read. And Lexi is an intriguing blend of tough and vulnerable with a tendency to fly off the handle. I was able to read this in an afternoon, and it was the perfect escape for my weekend and put me in the mood for the Valentine season. Highly recommend!
January 27, 2015
This was such a light-hearted and cute read!
I shamelessly requested a review copy from the author (THANK YOU SO MUCH, MISS DOZIER) because the synopsis and the cover are both cute and interesting. I'm so glad I did because this turned out to be a fun read. :)
I like that even though this was short, I got to know the two characters well. I like it that Grant isn't the geek who's just stuck on being geeky. He isn't afraid to explore. I also like how Lexi could be so outspoken one minute then quiet the next. Force of nature. :)
Lexi and Grant couldn't be more different from each other. They had this I-don't-like-him/her-so-I'll-stay-out-of-his/her-way going on long before the story started. If you ask me, I'd say they were just attracted to each other from the start. That is why they stayed away. They had this sexual tension going on between them and it's only a matter of time before either of them acted on it. Thank goodness, their boss had a good sense to create the perfect stage for them.
They go from one date to another. Trying to win a competition on the outside, but really, they're just trying to get to know each other rather umm.. intimately! ^_^
This is really nice. I had laugh out loud moments and awwwwwwwwwwww moments.
I'll be reading more from this author for sure. :)
I recommend this book to those who want to laugh, smile, love and read short novels. :)
I shamelessly requested a review copy from the author (THANK YOU SO MUCH, MISS DOZIER) because the synopsis and the cover are both cute and interesting. I'm so glad I did because this turned out to be a fun read. :)
I like that even though this was short, I got to know the two characters well. I like it that Grant isn't the geek who's just stuck on being geeky. He isn't afraid to explore. I also like how Lexi could be so outspoken one minute then quiet the next. Force of nature. :)
Lexi and Grant couldn't be more different from each other. They had this I-don't-like-him/her-so-I'll-stay-out-of-his/her-way going on long before the story started. If you ask me, I'd say they were just attracted to each other from the start. That is why they stayed away. They had this sexual tension going on between them and it's only a matter of time before either of them acted on it. Thank goodness, their boss had a good sense to create the perfect stage for them.
They go from one date to another. Trying to win a competition on the outside, but really, they're just trying to get to know each other rather umm.. intimately! ^_^
This is really nice. I had laugh out loud moments and awwwwwwwwwwww moments.
I'll be reading more from this author for sure. :)
I recommend this book to those who want to laugh, smile, love and read short novels. :)
January 21, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. At first I was not very fond of Lexi, but she grew on me. I really liked Grant, he was a great nerdy but still sexy character. Even though the story is short, the author did a good job of building their relationship. A good quick sweet read.
February 8, 2015
Cute, fast and fun read. I was hooked at the first hilarious sentence!
June 22, 2017
Well this was pretty cute. Grant definitely bounced back after that break up. Yes he did. Also the insta love was a bit vom-inducing. especially since there was a set up for all that angsty "I hate you" stuff, and then boom one convo and they're fine.. Ending was a bit clipped. She just believed that was his gf without any comment from him or her? Just she calls him Granty and she's his gf? Jumping to conclusions aren't we?
February 29, 2020
I didn't enjoy the story as much as i thought i would. Was too predictable, too bland, too scripted.
January 29, 2015
Given To Me For An Honest Review
Time Out, Valentine by Melinda Dozier is a must read for everyone. Once you open it, it will grab you and hold you down and you'll watch the pages turn and turn and turn again until you reach the end. The book is so good. I loved it. Lexi has had bad luck with men. Her supervisor at work decides to pair up employees to research sites for Valentine dates. Lexi is paired up with Grant. Grant is a geek! Before long Lexi discovers that Grant is a really cool guy, along with his sexy glasses. They become closer than just co-workers. Do opposites really attract? Ask Lexi and Grant. I gave this book 5 stars but I wanted to give it 10+. This would make a neat gift and would look good on your bookshelf. You'll be finding yourself
re-reading it over and over again. I highly recommend this book to everyone. I look for more from Melinda Dozier.
Time Out, Valentine by Melinda Dozier is a must read for everyone. Once you open it, it will grab you and hold you down and you'll watch the pages turn and turn and turn again until you reach the end. The book is so good. I loved it. Lexi has had bad luck with men. Her supervisor at work decides to pair up employees to research sites for Valentine dates. Lexi is paired up with Grant. Grant is a geek! Before long Lexi discovers that Grant is a really cool guy, along with his sexy glasses. They become closer than just co-workers. Do opposites really attract? Ask Lexi and Grant. I gave this book 5 stars but I wanted to give it 10+. This would make a neat gift and would look good on your bookshelf. You'll be finding yourself
re-reading it over and over again. I highly recommend this book to everyone. I look for more from Melinda Dozier.
February 1, 2015
Lexi has sworn off men. She's just been dumped again. She just wants to be alone, but that's not to be. She has to work with resident geek, Grant, to write a Valentine's story on why Portland is the most romantic city. This couldn't be happening! I loved this short and very sexy romance. Lexi and Grant have great chemistry. When they're together sparks fly. I loved that Lexi is quirky and snarky. While Grant is laid back and practical. He's so attracted to Lexi and wants to win her heart. He aims to please. Their romance is humorous and entertaining. I liked both characters and was drawn into their romantic adventure. Their friends were such determined matchmakers. They made me laugh with their meddling. Melinda Dozier has a light touch that made this story very enjoyable. Time Out, Valentine was a wonderful treat that I read it in one sitting.
February 9, 2016
Sometimes you just need a quick, romantic pick-me-up to leave you smiling, and this book is definitely that. I loved sassy, funny Lexi and her geeky-yet-totally-sexy love interest Grant. There’s just something great about this type of opposites-attract romance, and Melinda Dozier does an excellent job of amping up the swoon factor and leaving the reader wanting more.
This book is a super quick read, with a fun-loving, quirky vibe. It is steamy enough in parts, yet still manages to remain completely sweet.
I’d definitely read more from this author.
This book is a super quick read, with a fun-loving, quirky vibe. It is steamy enough in parts, yet still manages to remain completely sweet.
I’d definitely read more from this author.
February 2, 2015
I'm really glad I won Kelly Moran's giveaway for this book.
It is an enjoyable and quick read.I usually like Geeks and Grant is not exception,his manly backside gives him some more points.
I wish this is the first book in a series I'm so curious to know where life will lead Lexi and Grant.
Thank you for this cute story Melinda.
February 3, 2016
Kind of cheesy but if you like cheesy predictable romances this is the book for you. It's very short and easy to read. It's very much like a made for TV movie.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews