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The Lockhart Brothers #3
The Grump I Loathe
Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also—plot twist—my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m late for a major panel at a gaming convention, standing in line for a burrito, and the guy in front of me is treating the menu like it’s a gourmet tasting. I ask if I can cut. He says no—like I asked for his social security number. I may or may not have dumped super spicy salsa all over his precious order.
Fast that burrito snob? Now signs my paychecks. At the company of my dreams.
Dream job. Nightmare boss.
He’s impossible—cold, cranky, allergic to small talk. Smiling seems physically painful for him.
Sure, he’s got that jaw-dropping face. And when the smile does show up? Swoon.
But there’s something else—something under all that grump that’s way too easy to like.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. Then… way too many feelings.
I don’t want to fall for my grumpy boss. I just want to get him out of my system.
Too bad my heart has other plans.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m late for a major panel at a gaming convention, standing in line for a burrito, and the guy in front of me is treating the menu like it’s a gourmet tasting. I ask if I can cut. He says no—like I asked for his social security number. I may or may not have dumped super spicy salsa all over his precious order.
Fast that burrito snob? Now signs my paychecks. At the company of my dreams.
Dream job. Nightmare boss.
He’s impossible—cold, cranky, allergic to small talk. Smiling seems physically painful for him.
Sure, he’s got that jaw-dropping face. And when the smile does show up? Swoon.
But there’s something else—something under all that grump that’s way too easy to like.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. Then… way too many feelings.
I don’t want to fall for my grumpy boss. I just want to get him out of my system.
Too bad my heart has other plans.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
167 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Leslie North
663 books1,521 followersNew to Leslie? Readers suggest starting with 'The Bossy One' (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BP3BBF) —Imagine a sunny Minnesotan Mary Poppins, employed by a grumpy Irish billionaire. The story is a blend of humor, revenge, passion, heartbreak, hope, and witty banter. As one reader put it, ‘This story had me squealing at the romantic moments and silly moments.’
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
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Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leslienorthbooks
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
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Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
I'm Social Too:
Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leslienorthbooks
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
Instagram:www.instagram.com/leslienorth_books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 30, 2025
The Grump I Loathe
by Leslie North
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Thanks to Relay Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC!
This book delivers exactly what the title promises—a deliciously prickly, slow-burn workplace romance between a sunshiney heroine and a grumpy, burrito-hoarding boss. And honestly? It works.
Tropes you’ll feast on:
🌯Grumpy x Sunshine
🌯Age Gap
🌯Workplace Romance (with plenty of gaming industry vibes)
🌯 Single Dad + Adorable Kiddo
🌯Billionaire Boss
🌯Dual POV
🌯San Francisco setting
🌯Open door romance
From the very first meet-disaster—Eddie (aka Edith Sheppard) accidentally dumping salsa all over Connor Lockhart’s lunch and suit at a gaming convention—I knew this book was going to be fun. Fast-forward, and that same burrito victim? Yep, he’s now Eddie’s boss at the gaming company of her dreams. Plot twist: workplace enemies-to-lovers activated.
Eddie is that heroine: smart, sassy, unapologetically herself. She’s confident enough to go toe-to-toe with Connor’s glacier-level grumpiness and sharp enough to jab at his no-nonsense, no-dating, no-smiling policies. On the flip side, Connor is textbook broody: divorced, overworked, weighed down by CEO duties, and fiercely protective of his daughter. He’s the kind of man who pretends to be stone but secretly melts when nobody’s looking. And honestly? The moments with his daughter Grace absolutely stole the show for me—her sass and stubborn streak had me cackling.
The push-pull between Eddie and Connor is the book’s strongest suit. Their banter is laugh-out-loud funny, but it’s the quieter moments—the vulnerability, the glimpses of tenderness—that make the romance land. Eddie slowly chips away at Connor’s walls, and he, in turn, grounds her fiery independence with his steadiness. Throw in their younger sisters feuding (yes, even the kids have rivalries), and you get layers of family dynamics that add humor and depth.
The pacing is very much slow-burn, but in a good way—it gives time for the chemistry to build naturally. Spice level? Enough to keep me fanning myself, but not so much it overshadows the heart of the story. My one gripe: the third-act conflict leaned heavily on miscommunication. I wanted to shake them both and scream, “Just TALK to each other!” Still, the payoff was satisfying, and the resolution tied things together without feeling rushed.
What I also loved was how North weaved in the gaming industry details without overwhelming the romance. It gave the setting texture, made the workplace dynamic feel fresh, and honestly? Who doesn’t want to picture a brooding CEO in a headset running around a video game expo? Exactly.
The Grump I Loathe is funny, swoony, and heartfelt. It’s a rom-com that knows how to balance wit with warmth, predictability with payoff. If you love grumpy/sunshine, single dad drama, and banter sprinkled with just the right amount of spice—you’ll want to dive right in.
4 stars from me—and yes, I’m still laughing about the salsa incident. 🌯🔥
by Leslie North
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Thanks to Relay Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC!
This book delivers exactly what the title promises—a deliciously prickly, slow-burn workplace romance between a sunshiney heroine and a grumpy, burrito-hoarding boss. And honestly? It works.
Tropes you’ll feast on:
🌯Grumpy x Sunshine
🌯Age Gap
🌯Workplace Romance (with plenty of gaming industry vibes)
🌯 Single Dad + Adorable Kiddo
🌯Billionaire Boss
🌯Dual POV
🌯San Francisco setting
🌯Open door romance
From the very first meet-disaster—Eddie (aka Edith Sheppard) accidentally dumping salsa all over Connor Lockhart’s lunch and suit at a gaming convention—I knew this book was going to be fun. Fast-forward, and that same burrito victim? Yep, he’s now Eddie’s boss at the gaming company of her dreams. Plot twist: workplace enemies-to-lovers activated.
Eddie is that heroine: smart, sassy, unapologetically herself. She’s confident enough to go toe-to-toe with Connor’s glacier-level grumpiness and sharp enough to jab at his no-nonsense, no-dating, no-smiling policies. On the flip side, Connor is textbook broody: divorced, overworked, weighed down by CEO duties, and fiercely protective of his daughter. He’s the kind of man who pretends to be stone but secretly melts when nobody’s looking. And honestly? The moments with his daughter Grace absolutely stole the show for me—her sass and stubborn streak had me cackling.
The push-pull between Eddie and Connor is the book’s strongest suit. Their banter is laugh-out-loud funny, but it’s the quieter moments—the vulnerability, the glimpses of tenderness—that make the romance land. Eddie slowly chips away at Connor’s walls, and he, in turn, grounds her fiery independence with his steadiness. Throw in their younger sisters feuding (yes, even the kids have rivalries), and you get layers of family dynamics that add humor and depth.
The pacing is very much slow-burn, but in a good way—it gives time for the chemistry to build naturally. Spice level? Enough to keep me fanning myself, but not so much it overshadows the heart of the story. My one gripe: the third-act conflict leaned heavily on miscommunication. I wanted to shake them both and scream, “Just TALK to each other!” Still, the payoff was satisfying, and the resolution tied things together without feeling rushed.
What I also loved was how North weaved in the gaming industry details without overwhelming the romance. It gave the setting texture, made the workplace dynamic feel fresh, and honestly? Who doesn’t want to picture a brooding CEO in a headset running around a video game expo? Exactly.
The Grump I Loathe is funny, swoony, and heartfelt. It’s a rom-com that knows how to balance wit with warmth, predictability with payoff. If you love grumpy/sunshine, single dad drama, and banter sprinkled with just the right amount of spice—you’ll want to dive right in.
4 stars from me—and yes, I’m still laughing about the salsa incident. 🌯🔥
October 5, 2025
I really wanted to like this one. A romance that starts with a meet-cute (ish) at a burrito shop (because honestly, who doesn’t love a burrito), plus, the premise of a story set in a video game company sounded interesting enough. And of course the cute cover.
Even though it was an easy read, by the end it felt like a huge disappointment. The employee/employer dynamic and the age gap tropes felt more uncomfortable for me than I thought they'd be, and I wasn’t convinced by how those things were resolved. And then there was the last third of the book and the ending - perhaps expected for the genre, yet I thought wasn't well executed.
To be fair, there were parts of course I did enjoy. The secondary characters were great, especially the FMC’s little sister and the MMC’s daughter - their storylines were much more engaging and had a bit more depth. Basically, it was the romance in this romance novel that didn’t convince me.
Unfortunately, not for me - though maybe a younger version of me might have enjoyed it more.
⭐ 2.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Even though it was an easy read, by the end it felt like a huge disappointment. The employee/employer dynamic and the age gap tropes felt more uncomfortable for me than I thought they'd be, and I wasn’t convinced by how those things were resolved. And then there was the last third of the book and the ending - perhaps expected for the genre, yet I thought wasn't well executed.
To be fair, there were parts of course I did enjoy. The secondary characters were great, especially the FMC’s little sister and the MMC’s daughter - their storylines were much more engaging and had a bit more depth. Basically, it was the romance in this romance novel that didn’t convince me.
Unfortunately, not for me - though maybe a younger version of me might have enjoyed it more.
⭐ 2.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2025
Connor is a single dad. Actually I enjoyed reading the scenes with his daughter. Connor also owns a video game company.
Eddie (Edith) is the eager hopeful who now works at said game company. She is funny, and unapologetically herself. Albeit clumsy, which I found relatable haha.
Cue the meet cute at a gaming convention and she spills her burrito over Connor. Uh ohh…..
The book is a slow burn, grumpy x sunshine, workplace romance.
I am interested in the prior stories about the other brothers and will most likely go back and read sometime.
Eddie (Edith) is the eager hopeful who now works at said game company. She is funny, and unapologetically herself. Albeit clumsy, which I found relatable haha.
Cue the meet cute at a gaming convention and she spills her burrito over Connor. Uh ohh…..
The book is a slow burn, grumpy x sunshine, workplace romance.
I am interested in the prior stories about the other brothers and will most likely go back and read sometime.
November 5, 2025
I adored this book - a 5* read!
Enemies to lovers, he’s her boss, grumpy sunshine, single dad, dual POV, age gap
From their hot sauce incident meet cute, to work place tensions and beyond - I just loved them. She tells him how it is and he’s not used to that!
“She popped her hip in a way that had my gaze traveling up and down her body before I could stop myself. And stop myself, I did. A gorgeous body did not make up for an obnoxious attitude.”
Eddie was one of the best FMCs I’ve read. She’s navigated childhood trauma and is pursuing her dream career, whilst also being there for her sister. I loved the relationship she had with her sister, and how she was always in her corner. Supporting her in her gymnastics and helping navigate the stress her parents caused.
It was so inspiring how much she loved her job and how she put her heart and soul into it. I really liked the video game industry aspect - it furthered the story so much.
“More importantly, I needed her out of here and out of my life before… before what? Before anyone noticed I might be attracted to the bane of my existence? Before I did something monumentally stupid like wondering what those smart-ass lips would taste like?”
Connor was such a good MMC. He’s a dad who puts his daughter first. From navigating the situation with his ex wife, to trying to manage the company. He was such a good guy, and I really liked his character.
The author encapsulated grumpy x sunshine perfectly. The way Eddie added colour and laughter to his grey and serious workplace, and life. I was obsessed with how she stood up to Connor! The way they quipped back and forth, and the tension was just 10/10.
A special mention for her work family - Leigh and Noah, I loved them! They were always in her corner and provided such a great supporting cast - as did her friend Cass.
This is a must read!
ARC copy provided by Relay Publishing & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Enemies to lovers, he’s her boss, grumpy sunshine, single dad, dual POV, age gap
From their hot sauce incident meet cute, to work place tensions and beyond - I just loved them. She tells him how it is and he’s not used to that!
“She popped her hip in a way that had my gaze traveling up and down her body before I could stop myself. And stop myself, I did. A gorgeous body did not make up for an obnoxious attitude.”
Eddie was one of the best FMCs I’ve read. She’s navigated childhood trauma and is pursuing her dream career, whilst also being there for her sister. I loved the relationship she had with her sister, and how she was always in her corner. Supporting her in her gymnastics and helping navigate the stress her parents caused.
It was so inspiring how much she loved her job and how she put her heart and soul into it. I really liked the video game industry aspect - it furthered the story so much.
“More importantly, I needed her out of here and out of my life before… before what? Before anyone noticed I might be attracted to the bane of my existence? Before I did something monumentally stupid like wondering what those smart-ass lips would taste like?”
Connor was such a good MMC. He’s a dad who puts his daughter first. From navigating the situation with his ex wife, to trying to manage the company. He was such a good guy, and I really liked his character.
The author encapsulated grumpy x sunshine perfectly. The way Eddie added colour and laughter to his grey and serious workplace, and life. I was obsessed with how she stood up to Connor! The way they quipped back and forth, and the tension was just 10/10.
A special mention for her work family - Leigh and Noah, I loved them! They were always in her corner and provided such a great supporting cast - as did her friend Cass.
This is a must read!
ARC copy provided by Relay Publishing & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
September 16, 2025
Connor is such a grump—wait, now that I think about it, it’s not just Connor, ALL the Lockhart brothers have been a grumpy lot. It’s a good dang thing they have the common sense to hire the women that infuriate them by standing up to their snappish nature, otherwise there’d be a sorry, lonely, cantankerous lot of ‘em wasting away somewhere making everyone around them miserable.
Author Leslie North continues to prove her talent in writing with ‘The Grump I Loathe’. Eddie and Connor are such opposites, yet so perfectly perfect for each other. He’s so reserved, so tightly wound. She’s so loud, so incredibly animated. So yeah, perfect. They go through so much, dance around each other, deny/avoid feelings, misinterpret—you know, all the stuff we crave … but, in the end … well… I think you know that, too.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Connor
FMC:
✨Eddie
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Lockhart Brothers Book 2
Epilogue:
🌗yes
Tropes:
👉workplace romance
👉enemies to lovers
👉grumpy x sunshine
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
Burn Speed:
✨medium
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author Leslie North continues to prove her talent in writing with ‘The Grump I Loathe’. Eddie and Connor are such opposites, yet so perfectly perfect for each other. He’s so reserved, so tightly wound. She’s so loud, so incredibly animated. So yeah, perfect. They go through so much, dance around each other, deny/avoid feelings, misinterpret—you know, all the stuff we crave … but, in the end … well… I think you know that, too.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Connor
FMC:
✨Eddie
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Lockhart Brothers Book 2
Epilogue:
🌗yes
Tropes:
👉workplace romance
👉enemies to lovers
👉grumpy x sunshine
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
Burn Speed:
✨medium
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2025
Thank you so much Netgalley and Relay Publishing for the ARC!!
This was the third book in The Lockhart Brothers Series. I never read the first 2 but I will definitely be now. I ATE this up!!!!
It was a very well written book, full of Sarcasm, emotions, and childhood trauma. The banter between the main characters Eddie and Connor was perfect! It starts with Eddie at a convention to showcase her game she has created. She was starving and needed food before her panel but the guy in line in front of her at the food truck was taking forever. Asking tons of questions instead of just ordering something. She finally got fed up as she was running out of time to get back and she started arguing with the hot stranger. Meanwhile not realizing he is the owner of one of the biggest video game companies. She ran out of time and was hungry and decided to pour the hottest sauce she could find all over his food. Hence begins the hatred and banter! We then follow Connor reluctantly hiring her and we watch their relationship develop. We watch Eddie slowly change Connor and the work place into something more fun and relaxed. She melts his ice heart!
I would 100 % recommend this book!!!
It featured troupes of Grumpy/Sunshine, Age gap (Which you dont really notice), Work place Romance, Forced Proximity, Single Dad, Billionaire and Dual Pov.
This was the third book in The Lockhart Brothers Series. I never read the first 2 but I will definitely be now. I ATE this up!!!!
It was a very well written book, full of Sarcasm, emotions, and childhood trauma. The banter between the main characters Eddie and Connor was perfect! It starts with Eddie at a convention to showcase her game she has created. She was starving and needed food before her panel but the guy in line in front of her at the food truck was taking forever. Asking tons of questions instead of just ordering something. She finally got fed up as she was running out of time to get back and she started arguing with the hot stranger. Meanwhile not realizing he is the owner of one of the biggest video game companies. She ran out of time and was hungry and decided to pour the hottest sauce she could find all over his food. Hence begins the hatred and banter! We then follow Connor reluctantly hiring her and we watch their relationship develop. We watch Eddie slowly change Connor and the work place into something more fun and relaxed. She melts his ice heart!
I would 100 % recommend this book!!!
It featured troupes of Grumpy/Sunshine, Age gap (Which you dont really notice), Work place Romance, Forced Proximity, Single Dad, Billionaire and Dual Pov.
September 24, 2025
Although Eddie debatably had just as difficult as childhood as Connor, she still finds a way to be fun and cheerful. And although they had a rough start, once they were forced together at work, Eddie started to bring color to his grey world, literally! She even tricks him into "fun lessons" claiming he's too serious all the time. But when they inevitably fall for each other, Connor keeps finding a way to push her away.
Omg, I laughed so hard at their food court drama scene! Eddie was definitely hangry and OTT! All of the Lockhart brothers have been serious and grumpy until they found just the right woman, but Connor stole my heart from the first. I'm so glad he finally got his HEA despite his horrible ex. And I definitely loved Eddie's sassy spunky attitude.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Omg, I laughed so hard at their food court drama scene! Eddie was definitely hangry and OTT! All of the Lockhart brothers have been serious and grumpy until they found just the right woman, but Connor stole my heart from the first. I'm so glad he finally got his HEA despite his horrible ex. And I definitely loved Eddie's sassy spunky attitude.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 4, 2025
I'm not sure why, but I love me some grumpy MMCs and Connor is exactly that. He is gruff, broody, cranky, and refuses to suffer fools. Enter Eddie. Their interactions are funny, sometimes infuriating, and so full of tension that it's a treat to read. The story was very well written with expert pacing. Coupled with engaging dialogue an well developed characters, reading this one was an absolute pleasure. I would definitely recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
The third story in the Lockhart Brothers, another engaging story in this series. Connor Lockhart and Eddie do not get off to a great start, then she finds out he is her new boss. There is also his nine-year-old daughter Grace and her nine-year-old half-sister Cassie. I enjoyed reading this entertaining story with its happy ending. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was witty, funny, and emotional. Although it was predictable, and I don't think their relationship had a solid ground outside of the physical part. There were scenes with emotional intimacy, but they just weren't enough for me. Their connection felt a lot physical to me, but I would say that this was actually quite good.
3.5 🌟
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
3.5 🌟
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
September 25, 2025
What a great end to this series!!! I have enjoyed all three books!!! Connor and Eddie’s book was no different. There was banter, so much sass, lots of love and spice!!! Connor didn’t seem like such a stick in the mud in the other books, but seeing him as CEO made him seem extra boring!! Eddie got him out of his shell and they helped each other grow and become better versions of themselves. Grace was great in this book and we got to see how she is around her dad and everyone else in her life. I enjoyed how Connor and Eddie first met and all the weird things that happened after. This was such a great ending to the series. Thanks for the ARC
September 24, 2025
God where do I even begin? As my first ever Leslie North book, I’d say I’m off to a good start!! Not only did this book have a grumpy billionaire who’s not only a single dad, but we got that mixed with gaming?!?!? Hell yeah!! I’ve never truly read a book with so many game refrences and with game developing, coding and gaming generally, and as a gamer and reader myself, I’m pleasently surprised!! This truly hit the spot coming back from a reading slump. I was engaged the entire way and has such a fun time connecting with the main characters and the game!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 6, 2025
Eddie (Edith) was excited to be finally showing her new game if the guy in this queue would make up his mind. At this rate, she'd never get anywhere. Pouring hot sauce on his plate when she finally gets served seems justified. Mr. Grumpy businessman deserves everything he gets. All Connor wants is to get lunch for him and his daughter. But no, Miss All Fun and No Work still has to have the last word. I can't believe now my daughter is even plating her stupid game, and now I'll never get to see the person I was trying to see. They are total opposites. They just annoy each other. Yet she's perfect to finish the programming for their sequel. Can they put their diffences behind them. Plus, there's now the No dating rule in place. This is the third in this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed the chemistry between them. Both have their own problems, which actually quite similar if you look closely. Connor is trying hard to care for everyone except himself. Eddie is guarding herself from more disappointment. This is funny, steamy, and very family oriented. Can this fun-loving quirky woman actually work her magic on the workaholic rule following businessman. Or will it all blow up and history repeat itself again. This has been a series I've really enjoyed, with Connor and Eddie being my favourite story.
September 9, 2025
Connor meets Edith/Eddie at a food truck outside GeekCon where she ends up splashing salsa on his white shirt. That is the first of many hilarious moments in this story. Without going into great detail Conner and Eddie start working together and they get very close. There are so many misunderstandings, not much true communication and you wonder if Conner can ever pull it all together for the woman he realizes he loves. It’s a truly fast paced read, lots of steam and some tears thrown in. I was wondering if there would be a happy ending but when it came I loved it. Great story and a wonderful read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2025
I don’t know how Leslie North comes up with so many fabulously disastrous meet-cutes, but I hope she never stops!
While the book was full of witty and well developed characters, the banter and sarcasm wasn’t as strong as in her other books, but still sprinkled throughout.
I really enjoyed the relationship and character development between Connor and Eddie, but also both of their relationships with Connors daughter Grace - in fact Grace may have been my favorite character.
I think this book was a great ending to the series, and tied together not only the romantic relationships of each of the characters throughout the series but also the healing and rebuilding of each of the brothers relationships with their mother.
—
🎮 Stand-alone series of brothers
🐭 Grumpy x sunshine
🎮 Dual POV
🐭 Witty banter
🎮 Billionaire boss
🐭 Video game design
🎮 Single-dad
🐭 Office mascot
🎮 Open door
🐭 Age gap
📍 San Francisco, California
—
Thank you Relay Publishing | NetGalley & BookSprout for this complimentary ARC - all thoughts are my own! 📚
Publishers release date 9/25/2025
While the book was full of witty and well developed characters, the banter and sarcasm wasn’t as strong as in her other books, but still sprinkled throughout.
I really enjoyed the relationship and character development between Connor and Eddie, but also both of their relationships with Connors daughter Grace - in fact Grace may have been my favorite character.
I think this book was a great ending to the series, and tied together not only the romantic relationships of each of the characters throughout the series but also the healing and rebuilding of each of the brothers relationships with their mother.
—
🎮 Stand-alone series of brothers
🐭 Grumpy x sunshine
🎮 Dual POV
🐭 Witty banter
🎮 Billionaire boss
🐭 Video game design
🎮 Single-dad
🐭 Office mascot
🎮 Open door
🐭 Age gap
📍 San Francisco, California
—
Thank you Relay Publishing | NetGalley & BookSprout for this complimentary ARC - all thoughts are my own! 📚
Publishers release date 9/25/2025
October 18, 2025
Sometimes you just need a push.
Eddie, Edith when she needs to use her legal name, just wanted to make her panel when she met Connor in line ahead of her at a food truck. Then proceeded to dump food on him, only to learn it was for his daughter, who just happens to be amazing. Needing a job, she applies at Connor’s gaming company, not thinking the CEO would actually interview her. What starts as a very contentious working relationship turns into friendship, the more they get to know each other, and eventually turns into a secret relationship as Connor has decreed no more workplace relationships. So what happens when Connor, in a moment of stress, calls it all off and refuses to discuss anything?
Connor and Eddie get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
Connor was so stubborn, and he needed someone as fun as Eddie in his life! I love the little changes that she made around the office to start with, before the little things in his life. I love how great Grace was and it was so terrible how terrible it was for how her mother treated her until the end of the book. I’m sad that this is the end of the Lockhart Brothers, but I can’t wait to see what the author has next for us!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eddie, Edith when she needs to use her legal name, just wanted to make her panel when she met Connor in line ahead of her at a food truck. Then proceeded to dump food on him, only to learn it was for his daughter, who just happens to be amazing. Needing a job, she applies at Connor’s gaming company, not thinking the CEO would actually interview her. What starts as a very contentious working relationship turns into friendship, the more they get to know each other, and eventually turns into a secret relationship as Connor has decreed no more workplace relationships. So what happens when Connor, in a moment of stress, calls it all off and refuses to discuss anything?
Connor and Eddie get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
Connor was so stubborn, and he needed someone as fun as Eddie in his life! I love the little changes that she made around the office to start with, before the little things in his life. I love how great Grace was and it was so terrible how terrible it was for how her mother treated her until the end of the book. I’m sad that this is the end of the Lockhart Brothers, but I can’t wait to see what the author has next for us!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2025
Rating: 3.5 ⭐
When I first started this book I was unaware that it was part of a series, but it honestly didn't matter because it read perfectly fine as a stand-alone novel. The Grump I Loathe is a dual perspective romance novel that involves an older, grumpy boss who hires a feisty, younger employee to help aid his company's upcoming game release. It does contain some spicy scenes with some forced proximity (working together constantly) that builds that tension between the two characters.
This is the first book I've read by North, but it was definitely a fun and easy read for me. The depth and importance of the video game content inside the novel was not lacking at all. I was constantly excited to hear about their progress and enjoyed reading how they overcame each obstacle that popped up as they built the game. Another aspect that really captured my attention and tug at the heart strings was how important the children were throughout the story: Connor's daughter (Grace), Edith's sister (Alannah), the feud between the two of them, and how their hobbies were discussed in depth. Without Grace's interest in video games or her presence in general, Connor and Edith would have never met nor would the plot have developed as strongly as it did.
A few things I didn't like about the book were how dull our MMC seems for the majority of the book. His home and office both utilize a sullen and gloomy appearance of minimal design and gray colors, which leads to his employees having the same attitude to everything. Although he is meant to be an older guy, Connor acts very immaturely to a lot of situations regarding the miscommunication between him and our FMC, him and his employees, him and his ex-wife, and even towards his mother's personal life at times. The amount of angst throughout the novel was infuriating and made it take much longer to read the book than it normally would have. It relies so heavily on Connor being reserved and keeping everyone at a distance that it almost seems like Edith is constantly forcing him to give her attention which was cringe worthy and did not fit her personality that well. In my opinion, the book had a drawn out ending that could have happened 20-30 pages sooner. (Spoiler below to discuss this further).
Overall, it was an easy read in terms of pacing and plot-wise, but there were some choices that the characters made which seemed to conflict with their actual personality and usual reactions to similar issues. I read it as a stand-alone and think anybody else could too. I'm not sure if I will go back and read the other books in the series, though. Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the ARC!
When I first started this book I was unaware that it was part of a series, but it honestly didn't matter because it read perfectly fine as a stand-alone novel. The Grump I Loathe is a dual perspective romance novel that involves an older, grumpy boss who hires a feisty, younger employee to help aid his company's upcoming game release. It does contain some spicy scenes with some forced proximity (working together constantly) that builds that tension between the two characters.
This is the first book I've read by North, but it was definitely a fun and easy read for me. The depth and importance of the video game content inside the novel was not lacking at all. I was constantly excited to hear about their progress and enjoyed reading how they overcame each obstacle that popped up as they built the game. Another aspect that really captured my attention and tug at the heart strings was how important the children were throughout the story: Connor's daughter (Grace), Edith's sister (Alannah), the feud between the two of them, and how their hobbies were discussed in depth. Without Grace's interest in video games or her presence in general, Connor and Edith would have never met nor would the plot have developed as strongly as it did.
A few things I didn't like about the book were how dull our MMC seems for the majority of the book. His home and office both utilize a sullen and gloomy appearance of minimal design and gray colors, which leads to his employees having the same attitude to everything. Although he is meant to be an older guy, Connor acts very immaturely to a lot of situations regarding the miscommunication between him and our FMC, him and his employees, him and his ex-wife, and even towards his mother's personal life at times. The amount of angst throughout the novel was infuriating and made it take much longer to read the book than it normally would have. It relies so heavily on Connor being reserved and keeping everyone at a distance that it almost seems like Edith is constantly forcing him to give her attention which was cringe worthy and did not fit her personality that well. In my opinion, the book had a drawn out ending that could have happened 20-30 pages sooner. (Spoiler below to discuss this further).
Overall, it was an easy read in terms of pacing and plot-wise, but there were some choices that the characters made which seemed to conflict with their actual personality and usual reactions to similar issues. I read it as a stand-alone and think anybody else could too. I'm not sure if I will go back and read the other books in the series, though. Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the ARC!
September 24, 2025
Eddie is not only a gamer, but she has developed one too. She is at GeekCon promoting it. In between, she has only the short break before she has to be at the panel to speak as a game developer on the indie circuit. There is a Mex trunk outside and she is losing time behind the line and it is the only time that she can eat. Finally, there is only one person in front of her and she has 20 minutes left. However, he asks so many questions that the time gets eaten. Finally, she can’t stand it anymore and argues with the very hot man and then as she is hangry, does something insane. Omg, I laughed so hard, I cried. Plus, she has the best t shirts with sayings on them! I want all of them. (I do have one of them that I also got for my nephew- we match). I love video games, but the only ones I tend to beat are Pokémon and the like, lol.
Connor then meets back up with his daughter, Grace, who is 9. She is a riot. Connor runs a video game company and was on the lookout for talent and is there to meet Ryker and try to get him to take over as the new narrative designer. However, Grace sees Eddie, and the Alterbot game- space sheep, pink turnips and farming. I would play it! Soooo cute. As she is the woman who argued with him on line, he doesn’t want Grace playing her game, but since he gets a call, she does anyway, lol. Both Eddie & Connor get sick from the Con’s cooties. lol. Eddie lives with Cassie (her bestie) and two other women to make ends meet. She gets a phone call from St Orwell Prep and finds out that her sister, who is 9, wasn’t picked up by either of her parents, so Eddie has to go get Alannah. Seeing as this happens a lot, I was livid. Then Finding out that Eddie had gone thru it before Alannah, I wanted to hit her dad. Alannah is a gymnastics prodigy and I love her and Eddie together. She is more parent to her sister and pretty much the only stable influence in her life.
Eddie gets a new job, with Connor’s company. He is not happy that she is the only one that would work out. Everything at the company is boring and bland and Eddie changes everything- slowly. By the end of the first week, pretty much everyone in her area loves her. lol. She really is the answer to the company’s prayer for the game that was mid-production. Eddie is hilarious and I love her. The fact that she always has chocolate on hand doesn’t hurt. lol. Leigh, Max, Noah, etc. I love them. They are so much fun and they change as time goes on. Connor went thru a horrible divorce with Ali, Grace’s mom, who is getting married again and keeps blowing off Grace’s time with her. That ticked me off. I was impressed with Eddie for pretty much everything. We get to see Connor’s brothers and their significant others as well as Catherine (the mom) and her new bf X, a director. There are times where I cried as well - some because it was sad, but other times out of frustration and wanting to hit one of them. lol. There are a bunch of surprises in the book, and I wish the games spoken of in the books were real. I’d play Shadow 2 and Alterbot. I love the fact that Grace & Alannah are in the same class. Hoo boy. I can’t wait to see if there are anything else that happens in that world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Connor then meets back up with his daughter, Grace, who is 9. She is a riot. Connor runs a video game company and was on the lookout for talent and is there to meet Ryker and try to get him to take over as the new narrative designer. However, Grace sees Eddie, and the Alterbot game- space sheep, pink turnips and farming. I would play it! Soooo cute. As she is the woman who argued with him on line, he doesn’t want Grace playing her game, but since he gets a call, she does anyway, lol. Both Eddie & Connor get sick from the Con’s cooties. lol. Eddie lives with Cassie (her bestie) and two other women to make ends meet. She gets a phone call from St Orwell Prep and finds out that her sister, who is 9, wasn’t picked up by either of her parents, so Eddie has to go get Alannah. Seeing as this happens a lot, I was livid. Then Finding out that Eddie had gone thru it before Alannah, I wanted to hit her dad. Alannah is a gymnastics prodigy and I love her and Eddie together. She is more parent to her sister and pretty much the only stable influence in her life.
Eddie gets a new job, with Connor’s company. He is not happy that she is the only one that would work out. Everything at the company is boring and bland and Eddie changes everything- slowly. By the end of the first week, pretty much everyone in her area loves her. lol. She really is the answer to the company’s prayer for the game that was mid-production. Eddie is hilarious and I love her. The fact that she always has chocolate on hand doesn’t hurt. lol. Leigh, Max, Noah, etc. I love them. They are so much fun and they change as time goes on. Connor went thru a horrible divorce with Ali, Grace’s mom, who is getting married again and keeps blowing off Grace’s time with her. That ticked me off. I was impressed with Eddie for pretty much everything. We get to see Connor’s brothers and their significant others as well as Catherine (the mom) and her new bf X, a director. There are times where I cried as well - some because it was sad, but other times out of frustration and wanting to hit one of them. lol. There are a bunch of surprises in the book, and I wish the games spoken of in the books were real. I’d play Shadow 2 and Alterbot. I love the fact that Grace & Alannah are in the same class. Hoo boy. I can’t wait to see if there are anything else that happens in that world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐
1.5🌶️
Leslie has whipped up another fun but spicy romance book that hits you right in the feels!
The Grump I Loathe features the final Lockhart grump - Connor and our optimistic sunshine, Eddie.
Their not so meet cute results in Eddie spraying salsa all over Connor's pristine white shirt and she is not one bit guilty about it. Connor can't believe the audacity of this woman he's just met at the gaming convention he's attended with his daughter, Grace. To make matters worse, Eddie also happens to have an interview with Connor's gaming company - Lockmill Games, and to think she's already blown her opportunity before the interview.
Not one to back down from a challenge, Eddie attends the interview and is even offered the job! Eddie turns down the offer, knowing she could not tolerate working with someone like Connor. However, Connor is in desperate need for a narrative designer if he wants his latest sequel project to succeed. He practically begs Eddie to reconsider and finally accepts on one condition - if her own indie game Alterbot gets the attention it needs by Lockmill purchasing and distributing it.
Eddie is literally a breathe of fresh air and the person needed to shake things up at the office. Connor can't help but be in awe of Eddie's passion and determination for Shadow to succeed and together they put their differences apart and learn to work with one another.
Late nights and weekends spent in close proximity mean Eddie and Connor are spending more and more time together. People start noticing Connor's shift in demeanor, become happier and less upright in general. Eddie makes him want to become a better person - someone who doesn't have to always be the care taker, waiting for the worse to happen. She makes him want to enjoy life and not just living it.
Eddie is just a vibrant FMC who I just couldn't help but adore. Despite her upbringing, she doesn't let it get her down. Life is always half full! I especially loved her relationship with her sister, Alannah - in how she wanted to protect and take care of her. Eddie sees herself in Lana and does everything in her power to feel loved.
Connor and Eddie was just the sweetest. Their age gap was pretty much non relevant at this stage and I loved how they fit together like two pieces of the same jigsaw puzzle. Connor tries to keep Eddie at bay, thinking doing this will protect him and Grace's heart, but did they really have a choice where Eddie is concerned?? 😂 They definitely loved big and hard.... and the ending... Gahhhh 🫶🏻💗🥰
If you looking for your next read, filled with tropes like grumpy X sunshine, age gap, office romance etc - this is the book (and series) for you!!! 💗💗
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1.5🌶️
Leslie has whipped up another fun but spicy romance book that hits you right in the feels!
The Grump I Loathe features the final Lockhart grump - Connor and our optimistic sunshine, Eddie.
Their not so meet cute results in Eddie spraying salsa all over Connor's pristine white shirt and she is not one bit guilty about it. Connor can't believe the audacity of this woman he's just met at the gaming convention he's attended with his daughter, Grace. To make matters worse, Eddie also happens to have an interview with Connor's gaming company - Lockmill Games, and to think she's already blown her opportunity before the interview.
Not one to back down from a challenge, Eddie attends the interview and is even offered the job! Eddie turns down the offer, knowing she could not tolerate working with someone like Connor. However, Connor is in desperate need for a narrative designer if he wants his latest sequel project to succeed. He practically begs Eddie to reconsider and finally accepts on one condition - if her own indie game Alterbot gets the attention it needs by Lockmill purchasing and distributing it.
Eddie is literally a breathe of fresh air and the person needed to shake things up at the office. Connor can't help but be in awe of Eddie's passion and determination for Shadow to succeed and together they put their differences apart and learn to work with one another.
Late nights and weekends spent in close proximity mean Eddie and Connor are spending more and more time together. People start noticing Connor's shift in demeanor, become happier and less upright in general. Eddie makes him want to become a better person - someone who doesn't have to always be the care taker, waiting for the worse to happen. She makes him want to enjoy life and not just living it.
Eddie is just a vibrant FMC who I just couldn't help but adore. Despite her upbringing, she doesn't let it get her down. Life is always half full! I especially loved her relationship with her sister, Alannah - in how she wanted to protect and take care of her. Eddie sees herself in Lana and does everything in her power to feel loved.
Connor and Eddie was just the sweetest. Their age gap was pretty much non relevant at this stage and I loved how they fit together like two pieces of the same jigsaw puzzle. Connor tries to keep Eddie at bay, thinking doing this will protect him and Grace's heart, but did they really have a choice where Eddie is concerned?? 😂 They definitely loved big and hard.... and the ending... Gahhhh 🫶🏻💗🥰
If you looking for your next read, filled with tropes like grumpy X sunshine, age gap, office romance etc - this is the book (and series) for you!!! 💗💗
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 1, 2025
Quick Summary: An opposites attract, secret romance
My Review: The Grump I Loathe by Leslie North is book #3 in The Lockhart Brothers series. It was released on 9/25/25.
About the Book: "Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also—plot twist—my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. "
In My Own Words: A meet cute-hate goes wrong...until it goes right.
About the Characters: Connor and Eddie were something to watch. From their first hilariously telling introduction to the end of their tug-of-war love story, it was a mad-crazy romp. The grumpy x sunshine angle made for a great reading experience.
The supporting characters did help to advance the story, but they did not take over where the story went. After reading this, I will say that I will likely circle back around to read books 1 and 2.
About the Conflict: The up and down, back and forth shifts that existed between this couple played a big part in why their disconnect occurred. Holding back and holding in what needed to be shared created tension. With that said, the aforementioned directly contributed to a just right emotional arc. (I can live at the place of a good emotional arc. This one was giving.)
About the Chemistry: It has to be said, Eddie and Connor certainly had fireworks between them. How could they not? The way they charged each other up from jump wrote the story out. The self created barriers, the fighting of the feelings, and the mutual attraction merely added to the heat, as far as I am concerned.
My Final Say: I loved this enemies to lovers, workplace, no & go romance. It was witty and fun, but it was also sexy and textured. I found the leads to be a good pairing, at the end of the day. There was enough depth to keep me attentive and enough spice to keep things interesting.
Other: Readers who enjoy romance in the workplace stories, single dad romances, and love between opposites relationships should like this one.
Note: This would be fantastic as an audiobook. I am looking forward to hearing it come to life via that medium. I think readers will adore it.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Chemistry/Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Relay Publishing), and to NetGalley. Thank you so much for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this work, and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
My Review: The Grump I Loathe by Leslie North is book #3 in The Lockhart Brothers series. It was released on 9/25/25.
About the Book: "Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also—plot twist—my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. "
In My Own Words: A meet cute-hate goes wrong...until it goes right.
About the Characters: Connor and Eddie were something to watch. From their first hilariously telling introduction to the end of their tug-of-war love story, it was a mad-crazy romp. The grumpy x sunshine angle made for a great reading experience.
The supporting characters did help to advance the story, but they did not take over where the story went. After reading this, I will say that I will likely circle back around to read books 1 and 2.
About the Conflict: The up and down, back and forth shifts that existed between this couple played a big part in why their disconnect occurred. Holding back and holding in what needed to be shared created tension. With that said, the aforementioned directly contributed to a just right emotional arc. (I can live at the place of a good emotional arc. This one was giving.)
About the Chemistry: It has to be said, Eddie and Connor certainly had fireworks between them. How could they not? The way they charged each other up from jump wrote the story out. The self created barriers, the fighting of the feelings, and the mutual attraction merely added to the heat, as far as I am concerned.
My Final Say: I loved this enemies to lovers, workplace, no & go romance. It was witty and fun, but it was also sexy and textured. I found the leads to be a good pairing, at the end of the day. There was enough depth to keep me attentive and enough spice to keep things interesting.
Other: Readers who enjoy romance in the workplace stories, single dad romances, and love between opposites relationships should like this one.
Note: This would be fantastic as an audiobook. I am looking forward to hearing it come to life via that medium. I think readers will adore it.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Chemistry/Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Relay Publishing), and to NetGalley. Thank you so much for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this work, and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
September 30, 2025
Rating: 3.75/5
Tropes to Expect:
- Age Gap
- Grump x Sunshine
- Workplace Romance
- Video Game Design Elements
- Divorced Dad
Leslie North’s The Grump I Loathe is a fun age-gap, workplace romance that delivers witty banter, a prickly hero with hidden depth, a sassy, independent heroine, and an emotional payoff that makes the journey worthwhile. From the very first meeting, when Eddie (or Edith Sheppard if we want to go by her legal name), in a rush at a gaming convention, dumps salsa on Connor Lockhart’s lunch and shirt, the chemistry between them is undeniable. What begins as pure chaos and mutual irritation only intensifies when Eddie ends up at Connor’s gaming company and finds herself working directly under the same grumpy man she never wanted to deal with again. With Connor’s rigid no-dating policy in place, their growing attraction simmers beneath the surface, sparking a slow-burn tension that is as frustrating for the characters as it is fun for the reader.
Eddie is the kind of heroine who shines with confidence and sharp humor. She’s unapologetically herself, which makes her the perfect foil for Connor’s brooding, emotionally guarded demeanor. He’s a divorced dad, weighed down by his responsibilities as a CEO and fiercely protective of his daughter. However, glimpses of tenderness he shows in private peel back the layers of his gruff exterior. The family dynamics are one of the strongest parts of the book: Connor’s relationship with his daughter adds heart and warmth, while Eddie’s interactions with her younger half-sister also add humor and vulnerability in equal measure. Their connection, as messy as it can be, forces both Eddie and Connor to show sides of themselves they’d rather keep hidden.
What makes the romance so compelling is how naturally it unfolds. The enemies-to-lovers progression feels believable, the banter is laugh-out-loud funny, and their dynamic is balanced with moments of vulnerability that keep the story grounded. The more time they spend together, the more Connor starts to soften, and Eddie’s bold, outspoken personality slowly breaks down his walls. The spice also isn’t overwhelming, just the right amount to keep me invested. I will say the third-act conflict leans a little too much on miscommunication, and I found myself wishing they’d just talk things out instead of letting silence and assumptions create distance. Still, the tension did keep the pages turning, and the resolution tied everything together in a way that felt rewarding.
Overall, The Grump I Loathe is funny, swoony, and full of heart. It’s the kind of rom-com that balances humor and tenderness in just the right measure!
Tropes to Expect:
- Age Gap
- Grump x Sunshine
- Workplace Romance
- Video Game Design Elements
- Divorced Dad
Leslie North’s The Grump I Loathe is a fun age-gap, workplace romance that delivers witty banter, a prickly hero with hidden depth, a sassy, independent heroine, and an emotional payoff that makes the journey worthwhile. From the very first meeting, when Eddie (or Edith Sheppard if we want to go by her legal name), in a rush at a gaming convention, dumps salsa on Connor Lockhart’s lunch and shirt, the chemistry between them is undeniable. What begins as pure chaos and mutual irritation only intensifies when Eddie ends up at Connor’s gaming company and finds herself working directly under the same grumpy man she never wanted to deal with again. With Connor’s rigid no-dating policy in place, their growing attraction simmers beneath the surface, sparking a slow-burn tension that is as frustrating for the characters as it is fun for the reader.
Eddie is the kind of heroine who shines with confidence and sharp humor. She’s unapologetically herself, which makes her the perfect foil for Connor’s brooding, emotionally guarded demeanor. He’s a divorced dad, weighed down by his responsibilities as a CEO and fiercely protective of his daughter. However, glimpses of tenderness he shows in private peel back the layers of his gruff exterior. The family dynamics are one of the strongest parts of the book: Connor’s relationship with his daughter adds heart and warmth, while Eddie’s interactions with her younger half-sister also add humor and vulnerability in equal measure. Their connection, as messy as it can be, forces both Eddie and Connor to show sides of themselves they’d rather keep hidden.
What makes the romance so compelling is how naturally it unfolds. The enemies-to-lovers progression feels believable, the banter is laugh-out-loud funny, and their dynamic is balanced with moments of vulnerability that keep the story grounded. The more time they spend together, the more Connor starts to soften, and Eddie’s bold, outspoken personality slowly breaks down his walls. The spice also isn’t overwhelming, just the right amount to keep me invested. I will say the third-act conflict leans a little too much on miscommunication, and I found myself wishing they’d just talk things out instead of letting silence and assumptions create distance. Still, the tension did keep the pages turning, and the resolution tied everything together in a way that felt rewarding.
Overall, The Grump I Loathe is funny, swoony, and full of heart. It’s the kind of rom-com that balances humor and tenderness in just the right measure!
September 25, 2025
Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m in line at a burrito place, running late for the most important interview of my life, and this guy in front of me is taking forever—substituting every ingredient like he’s at a five-star restaurant. I finally ask if I can cut in front of him. He says no. Fast forward—he ends up covered in salsa.
So you can imagine my surprise when that guy hires me as the new gaming narrative designer at the company he owns. Mind. Blown!
It’s my dream job, but working with him? It’s going to be about as much fun as a root canal with no Novocain.
He’s a jerk.
He doesn’t smile.
And he definitely doesn’t like me.
The only thing he has going for him is that jaw-dropping face. Oh, and that smile… when it finally shows up? Swoon.
Then the unthinkable happens. I’m at a club, having a blast, and guess who shows up? Yep, Mr. Resting Scowl Face himself. He tells me I’m gorgeous. And… and… I kiss him!
Worse, he kisses me back. And then, like the buzzkill he is, he reminds me of the company’s no-dating rule.
I don’t want to date Connor. I just want to get him out of my system. No big deal.
But that plan? Yeah, it’s starting to fall apart. Because every time he looks at me like that, I’m pretty sure I’m doomed.
This contemporary grumpy sunshine billionaire boss enemies-to-lovers romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are an alpha male billionaire boss who is gorgeous, jerky, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall who exudes power/wealth, a fierce/sassy/resilient female heroine, who are both captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the grump I loathe, the Lockhart Brothers, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, humor that will leave readers laughing out loud, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, deception, forbidden billionaire boss romance, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the grump I loathe and an explicit grumpy/sunshien billionaire boss romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly humorous, lustful, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m in line at a burrito place, running late for the most important interview of my life, and this guy in front of me is taking forever—substituting every ingredient like he’s at a five-star restaurant. I finally ask if I can cut in front of him. He says no. Fast forward—he ends up covered in salsa.
So you can imagine my surprise when that guy hires me as the new gaming narrative designer at the company he owns. Mind. Blown!
It’s my dream job, but working with him? It’s going to be about as much fun as a root canal with no Novocain.
He’s a jerk.
He doesn’t smile.
And he definitely doesn’t like me.
The only thing he has going for him is that jaw-dropping face. Oh, and that smile… when it finally shows up? Swoon.
Then the unthinkable happens. I’m at a club, having a blast, and guess who shows up? Yep, Mr. Resting Scowl Face himself. He tells me I’m gorgeous. And… and… I kiss him!
Worse, he kisses me back. And then, like the buzzkill he is, he reminds me of the company’s no-dating rule.
I don’t want to date Connor. I just want to get him out of my system. No big deal.
But that plan? Yeah, it’s starting to fall apart. Because every time he looks at me like that, I’m pretty sure I’m doomed.
This contemporary grumpy sunshine billionaire boss enemies-to-lovers romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are an alpha male billionaire boss who is gorgeous, jerky, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall who exudes power/wealth, a fierce/sassy/resilient female heroine, who are both captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the grump I loathe, the Lockhart Brothers, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, humor that will leave readers laughing out loud, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, deception, forbidden billionaire boss romance, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the grump I loathe and an explicit grumpy/sunshien billionaire boss romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly humorous, lustful, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 1, 2025
Opening a book with contemplating murder is always an attention getter. My favorite thing about the book was the humor which we get introduced to right up front. Eddie has some absolutely hilarious inner monologues and seems like a fun friend to have.
The two main tropes besides boss/employee that rule this book are grumpy/sunshine and age gap. Unfortunately neither quite worked for me. Eddie is too much of a nuclear chaos bomb for my tastes. It's easy to see why she hasn’t been able to hold down a job and mocking your new boss on your first day at work only works if your new boss already wants to sleep with you. I don’t care about the boss/employee element, have sex in the office, whatever. But she is still an actual employee and her intense chaos and totally flaunting of rules just didn’t work for me. I understand that is supposed to be the dynamic, the business guy versus the artist, the stickler for rules versus agent of chaos, but it just never quite worked for me.
The age gap also didn’t really work for me. I initially got this book as a review copy without knowing the authors other books, but this is a genre and tropes I enjoy. But the initial summary didn’t really indicate a very significant age gap. I figured there would be some years between them, but it ended up being fifteen. Age gap though has always been a tricky one for me. Eddie and Connor just always felt like they were at different points in their lives and I just didn’t find them believable. Believable for an affair, sure, plenty of heat and tension. But as a happily ever after, they both have more growing to do.
Spoilers - tropes some people hate -
Overall maybe this just wasn’t a good book for me. The thing is, I devoured the book, stayed up till 3 am to finish it, but still just wasn't quite satisfied by the end. It is a solid 3 star read to me, because it was enjoyable and I would still recommend it to people who enjoy those tropes.
This review copy came from Relay Publishing and Netgalley.
The two main tropes besides boss/employee that rule this book are grumpy/sunshine and age gap. Unfortunately neither quite worked for me. Eddie is too much of a nuclear chaos bomb for my tastes. It's easy to see why she hasn’t been able to hold down a job and mocking your new boss on your first day at work only works if your new boss already wants to sleep with you. I don’t care about the boss/employee element, have sex in the office, whatever. But she is still an actual employee and her intense chaos and totally flaunting of rules just didn’t work for me. I understand that is supposed to be the dynamic, the business guy versus the artist, the stickler for rules versus agent of chaos, but it just never quite worked for me.
The age gap also didn’t really work for me. I initially got this book as a review copy without knowing the authors other books, but this is a genre and tropes I enjoy. But the initial summary didn’t really indicate a very significant age gap. I figured there would be some years between them, but it ended up being fifteen. Age gap though has always been a tricky one for me. Eddie and Connor just always felt like they were at different points in their lives and I just didn’t find them believable. Believable for an affair, sure, plenty of heat and tension. But as a happily ever after, they both have more growing to do.
Spoilers - tropes some people hate -
Overall maybe this just wasn’t a good book for me. The thing is, I devoured the book, stayed up till 3 am to finish it, but still just wasn't quite satisfied by the end. It is a solid 3 star read to me, because it was enjoyable and I would still recommend it to people who enjoy those tropes.
This review copy came from Relay Publishing and Netgalley.
November 26, 2025
📚The Grump I Loathe
✍🏻Leslie North
Blurb:
Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also—plot twist—my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m late for a major panel at a gaming convention, standing in line for a burrito, and the guy in front of me is treating the menu like it’s a gourmet tasting. I ask if I can cut. He says no—like I asked for his social security number. I may or may not have dumped super spicy salsa all over his precious order.
Fast that burrito snob? Now signs my paychecks. At the company of my dreams.
Dream job. Nightmare boss.
He’s impossible—cold, cranky, allergic to small talk. Smiling seems physically painful for him.
Sure, he’s got that jaw-dropping face. And when the smile does show up? Swoon.
But there’s something else—something under all that grump that’s way too easy to like.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. Then… way too many feelings.
I don’t want to fall for my grumpy boss. I just want to get him out of my system.
Too bad my heart has other plans.
My Thoughts:
The Lockhart Brother’s series but I didn’t find myself lost so can definitely be read as a standalone! We follow Eddie and Connor as they start a very tumultuous working relationship and navigate the a difficult relationship between Eddie’s half sister and Connor’s daughter. I really enjoyed the video game industry aspects of this game and honestly would quite like to play the game that ends up being released (it kind of gave me Stray vibes!).
The way North explored how the divorce affected Garce hit close to home and Connor was such a good dad for realising how it was affecting her and always working to make sure she was happy. Eddie’s dad was just oblivious to how everything was affecting Alannah and you could really tell Eddie was a stereotypical eldest daughter.
Connor’s life was so grey before Eddie came along which I did find a bit strange considering how cheerful and bright Grace is BUT the addition of colour throughout the story showed how Eddie was slowly getting into his heart.
Thanks NetGalley, Relay Publishing and Author Leslie North for the advanced copy of "The Grump I Loathe" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RelayPublishing
#LeslieNorth
#TheGrumpILoathe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Leslie North
Blurb:
Connor Lockhart is gorgeous, grumpy, and about as charming as a brick wall. He’s also—plot twist—my new boss.
Our first meeting? A total disaster. I’m late for a major panel at a gaming convention, standing in line for a burrito, and the guy in front of me is treating the menu like it’s a gourmet tasting. I ask if I can cut. He says no—like I asked for his social security number. I may or may not have dumped super spicy salsa all over his precious order.
Fast that burrito snob? Now signs my paychecks. At the company of my dreams.
Dream job. Nightmare boss.
He’s impossible—cold, cranky, allergic to small talk. Smiling seems physically painful for him.
Sure, he’s got that jaw-dropping face. And when the smile does show up? Swoon.
But there’s something else—something under all that grump that’s way too easy to like.
When his nine-year-old daughter starts feuding with my nine-year-old half-sister, we’re forced into a truce. Then a kiss. Then… way too many feelings.
I don’t want to fall for my grumpy boss. I just want to get him out of my system.
Too bad my heart has other plans.
My Thoughts:
The Lockhart Brother’s series but I didn’t find myself lost so can definitely be read as a standalone! We follow Eddie and Connor as they start a very tumultuous working relationship and navigate the a difficult relationship between Eddie’s half sister and Connor’s daughter. I really enjoyed the video game industry aspects of this game and honestly would quite like to play the game that ends up being released (it kind of gave me Stray vibes!).
The way North explored how the divorce affected Garce hit close to home and Connor was such a good dad for realising how it was affecting her and always working to make sure she was happy. Eddie’s dad was just oblivious to how everything was affecting Alannah and you could really tell Eddie was a stereotypical eldest daughter.
Connor’s life was so grey before Eddie came along which I did find a bit strange considering how cheerful and bright Grace is BUT the addition of colour throughout the story showed how Eddie was slowly getting into his heart.
Thanks NetGalley, Relay Publishing and Author Leslie North for the advanced copy of "The Grump I Loathe" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#RelayPublishing
#LeslieNorth
#TheGrumpILoathe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 24, 2025
Okay, so loathe might be too strong a word, but this romance definitely leans into that irresistible grumpy/sunshine dynamic. And while Eddie shines bright as the resident ray of light, it quickly becomes clear that her sunshine hides a few shadows of its own. Their meet-cute? Let’s just say Cupid was nowhere in sight. Eddie, never one to hold her tongue, leaves Connor covered in spicy salsa and assumes that’s the last she’ll ever see of him. How wrong can she be. Fast-forward, and suddenly the grump is her new boss. Connor does his best to trip her up during her interview, but Eddie proves she’s the best man…err, woman for the job. From day one, she flips Connor’s carefully crafted rulebook upside down, dragging her colleagues out of their cubicles and injecting laughter, color, and energy to have the place buzzing. Eddie is sassy, irreverent, and absolutely the life of the party—the perfect foil to Connor’s rigid control. Their opposites-attract chemistry crackles off the page, and I especially loved Eddie’s cheeky take on his “business attire.” But Connor’s life isn’t just about his company. As a single dad juggling an unreliable ex and his sweet nine-year-old daughter, Grace, he’s stretched thin. When Grace gets into a scrape at school with Eddie’s half-sister, Alannah, the pair are reluctantly thrown together outside of work. Combined with their close collaboration on Connor’s latest project, sparks turn into something much harder to ignore. Of course, nothing’s simple when love collides with workplace rules. With a brand-new non-fraternization policy (yes, Connor’s brainchild), and his protective instincts over Grace, Connor insists on keeping their relationship a secret. But when his inability to admit his true feelings pushes Eddie away, I wanted to give him a good smack upside the head. Thankfully, with some wise nudges from his family, Connor finally realizes he can’t let the best thing in his life slip through his fingers. This is a sweet, feel-good romance brimming with sass, and charm. The characters feel real, the banter is sharp, and the happy ending is every bit as deserved as it is delightful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2025
What happens when you’re hungry and barely have time to get food before your panel? You get hangry and take it out on the good looking guy in front of you.
It’s hard to find a book involving video games. As a gamer myself seeing terminology and the setting at the beginning being at a video game con and the rest of the book taking place at Lock Mill Games made me really happy. When you first meet the characters they are enemies. I was on Eddie’s side in the food line until we find out who the quesadilla is really for. It goes to show that Connor may come off as a jerk but he cares about his family and always puts them first.
Connor is such a good Dad to Grace and he’s willing to do anything for her happiness especially when his ex wife is MIA. He’s been through a lot and put his wants on the back burner for everyone else since he’s used to taking care of his family from a young age and had to grow up fast. Eddie (Edith) has also had childhood trauma from a divorce where she also had to grow up quick and hates to see her little sister going through the same thing she did at her age.
After giving the CEO fun lessons, he starts to loosen up and Eddie starts to see the real him and Eddie also starts to open up about her own life. I felt emotional for Alannah because her home life is not the best. Eddie understands why she feels the way she does and lets her talk out her feelings.
There was a lot of character growth with Eddie and Connor. Connor needed Eddie so he could loosen up and learn to be fun instead of always thinking about work. Eddie needed someone who loves her for her and Connor is definitely that person for her that will accept her for who she is. The tension was perfect not too fast and not too slow. I enjoyed their forbidden moments and how they finally come together. I kept reading and couldn’t put it down. I felt like I knew these characters and wanted to be apart of the story longer.
I received this arc through NetGalley in exchange for a review.
It’s hard to find a book involving video games. As a gamer myself seeing terminology and the setting at the beginning being at a video game con and the rest of the book taking place at Lock Mill Games made me really happy. When you first meet the characters they are enemies. I was on Eddie’s side in the food line until we find out who the quesadilla is really for. It goes to show that Connor may come off as a jerk but he cares about his family and always puts them first.
Connor is such a good Dad to Grace and he’s willing to do anything for her happiness especially when his ex wife is MIA. He’s been through a lot and put his wants on the back burner for everyone else since he’s used to taking care of his family from a young age and had to grow up fast. Eddie (Edith) has also had childhood trauma from a divorce where she also had to grow up quick and hates to see her little sister going through the same thing she did at her age.
After giving the CEO fun lessons, he starts to loosen up and Eddie starts to see the real him and Eddie also starts to open up about her own life. I felt emotional for Alannah because her home life is not the best. Eddie understands why she feels the way she does and lets her talk out her feelings.
There was a lot of character growth with Eddie and Connor. Connor needed Eddie so he could loosen up and learn to be fun instead of always thinking about work. Eddie needed someone who loves her for her and Connor is definitely that person for her that will accept her for who she is. The tension was perfect not too fast and not too slow. I enjoyed their forbidden moments and how they finally come together. I kept reading and couldn’t put it down. I felt like I knew these characters and wanted to be apart of the story longer.
I received this arc through NetGalley in exchange for a review.
September 30, 2025
(english version below) The Grump I Loathe è una commedia romantica frizzante e leggera, ambientata in ufficio, che unisce battute divertenti e momenti teneri. Leslie North riprende i grandi classici come il contrasto tra caratteri opposti e la convivenza forzata, e li trasforma in una lettura scorrevole e piacevole.
Eddie è solare, ironica e con quella vena di eccentricità che ti strappa subito un sorriso. Connor invece parte come il capo rigido e impenetrabile, ma pagina dopo pagina rivela un lato più profondo e affettuoso, soprattutto nel rapporto con la figlia e nell’attenzione verso i suoi collaboratori. Anche le dinamiche familiari, sia di Eddie che di Connor, aggiungono calore e rendono la storia ancora più coinvolgente.
Non è un romanzo che vuole sorprendere a tutti i costi, ma proprio per questo funziona: è veloce, leggero e pieno di dialoghi arguti che tengono viva l’attenzione. Perfetto se hai voglia di una lettura spensierata, con personaggi simpatici e tanta chimica.
***
The Grump I Loathe is a lively, workplace romance that blends humor with plenty of heart. Leslie North takes familiar tropes like forced proximity and grumpy-meets-sunshine and spins them into a story that’s both entertaining and comforting.
Eddie’s upbeat energy and Connor’s guarded exterior create sparks from the very beginning. What stood out most to me, though, was the way Connor’s softer side unfolds, especially in how he cares for his daughter and supports his employees. The sibling interactions on both sides of the couple also add warmth and a sense of community.
The story isn’t trying to reinvent the genre, but that’s part of its charm. It’s light, quick to read, and full of witty exchanges that keep you turning the pages. If you want a fun escape with likable characters and plenty of chemistry, this book is an easy pick.
***
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC
Eddie è solare, ironica e con quella vena di eccentricità che ti strappa subito un sorriso. Connor invece parte come il capo rigido e impenetrabile, ma pagina dopo pagina rivela un lato più profondo e affettuoso, soprattutto nel rapporto con la figlia e nell’attenzione verso i suoi collaboratori. Anche le dinamiche familiari, sia di Eddie che di Connor, aggiungono calore e rendono la storia ancora più coinvolgente.
Non è un romanzo che vuole sorprendere a tutti i costi, ma proprio per questo funziona: è veloce, leggero e pieno di dialoghi arguti che tengono viva l’attenzione. Perfetto se hai voglia di una lettura spensierata, con personaggi simpatici e tanta chimica.
***
The Grump I Loathe is a lively, workplace romance that blends humor with plenty of heart. Leslie North takes familiar tropes like forced proximity and grumpy-meets-sunshine and spins them into a story that’s both entertaining and comforting.
Eddie’s upbeat energy and Connor’s guarded exterior create sparks from the very beginning. What stood out most to me, though, was the way Connor’s softer side unfolds, especially in how he cares for his daughter and supports his employees. The sibling interactions on both sides of the couple also add warmth and a sense of community.
The story isn’t trying to reinvent the genre, but that’s part of its charm. It’s light, quick to read, and full of witty exchanges that keep you turning the pages. If you want a fun escape with likable characters and plenty of chemistry, this book is an easy pick.
***
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC
November 8, 2025
Eddie loves her job designing videogames as a freelancer but she wants something more stable. If she can just get someone interested in her game she just might have a chance to succeed. Connor owns LockMill Games. He needs a new narrative designer stat. The first time Eddie and Connor meet isn’t a good experience. Can they find a way to work together? Will they find love or hate in the end? Their first meeting might have been waiting in line at a food truck but that was just the beginning.
Eddie is a straightforward character. She is a video game designer who is trying to break into the industry. Her former boyfriend stole the game they worked on together and claimed it as his own. Now Eddie wants to succeed to prove to everyone that she can. She is smart, fun, quirky, and a darn good designer. It seems like her super power is bringing people together with positive energy. She even buys the office a pet rat! Connor’s ugly divorce and custody fight have been a side note in the prior books. This story fills in a lot of the gaps about his relationship with his ex-wife. I can understand why the company now has a no dating policy since he and is ex are the two who started the company. It also gave the author the opportunity to use that to create tension. Connor is a stressed out business owner and dad. His daughter, Grace, is sweet and adds a nice layer love and kindness to the story. I like that Connor’s growth was about realizing how his divorce had changed him in a negative way and that he needs to deal with it. His mother and brothers make an appearance in the story. There is no bad guy per se. Both Eddie and Connor have exes that play a role in driving the story forward by being annoying.
This story takes place in San Francisco. It is an opposites attract, single dad, office romance. I think it is an excellent addition to the series. I will read more from this author in the future.
Eddie is a straightforward character. She is a video game designer who is trying to break into the industry. Her former boyfriend stole the game they worked on together and claimed it as his own. Now Eddie wants to succeed to prove to everyone that she can. She is smart, fun, quirky, and a darn good designer. It seems like her super power is bringing people together with positive energy. She even buys the office a pet rat! Connor’s ugly divorce and custody fight have been a side note in the prior books. This story fills in a lot of the gaps about his relationship with his ex-wife. I can understand why the company now has a no dating policy since he and is ex are the two who started the company. It also gave the author the opportunity to use that to create tension. Connor is a stressed out business owner and dad. His daughter, Grace, is sweet and adds a nice layer love and kindness to the story. I like that Connor’s growth was about realizing how his divorce had changed him in a negative way and that he needs to deal with it. His mother and brothers make an appearance in the story. There is no bad guy per se. Both Eddie and Connor have exes that play a role in driving the story forward by being annoying.
This story takes place in San Francisco. It is an opposites attract, single dad, office romance. I think it is an excellent addition to the series. I will read more from this author in the future.
September 22, 2025
I've read a lot of Leslie North's books and I'll be honest; I wasn't expecting to like this book so much. The plots of the other books are always good but not something I'd go back to read, but this one was different. The plot, the characterisation, the relationships, everything was done so much better.
Answering Leslie North's questions for my review:
Were there any parts where you felt confused or
lost? - Absolutely not! The story flowed so well that I didn't have any trouble anywhere.
Did any characters feel unlikeable, unrealistic, or
inconsistent? No, not really, though Connor did frustrate me during their breakup scene and the chapters after that. I wanted to smack him for hurting Eddie like that.
Which scene or moment stuck with you the most,
and why? (I promise I won’t let it go to my head.) I think the scene where Eddie yells at her dad for everything and he apologizes is the one that stuck with me the most because it seemed to be the only scene where Eddie was 100% true to her feelings. She'd been bottling everything up for so long and now it just... bursts out of her. As an older sibling, I get that feeling. Another scene is when Connor flies to Italy to check on his mom and X and the parallels between him and Grace are so obvious.
Did the pacing ever feel too fast, too slow, or just
right? The pacing felt right throughout the book except when the author did a quick detour to work on Eddie's relationship with Lana. I know it's part of her development/plotline, but still, it felt like the story slowed down over there and then picked up again after that.
Was there any point where you wanted to stop
reading? No, not at all.
What emotions did you feel while reading? Amusement, frustration, misery, happiness, contentment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Answering Leslie North's questions for my review:
Were there any parts where you felt confused or
lost? - Absolutely not! The story flowed so well that I didn't have any trouble anywhere.
Did any characters feel unlikeable, unrealistic, or
inconsistent? No, not really, though Connor did frustrate me during their breakup scene and the chapters after that. I wanted to smack him for hurting Eddie like that.
Which scene or moment stuck with you the most,
and why? (I promise I won’t let it go to my head.) I think the scene where Eddie yells at her dad for everything and he apologizes is the one that stuck with me the most because it seemed to be the only scene where Eddie was 100% true to her feelings. She'd been bottling everything up for so long and now it just... bursts out of her. As an older sibling, I get that feeling. Another scene is when Connor flies to Italy to check on his mom and X and the parallels between him and Grace are so obvious.
Did the pacing ever feel too fast, too slow, or just
right? The pacing felt right throughout the book except when the author did a quick detour to work on Eddie's relationship with Lana. I know it's part of her development/plotline, but still, it felt like the story slowed down over there and then picked up again after that.
Was there any point where you wanted to stop
reading? No, not at all.
What emotions did you feel while reading? Amusement, frustration, misery, happiness, contentment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2025
This was one of those books I picked up for a quick rom-com fix and ended up reading straight through because the banter was just that fun. The setup is classic grumpy/sunshine, but the author keeps it fresh with a genuinely funny meet-disaster involving a burrito line, an overconfident heroine, and a hero who takes his lunch way too seriously. I was already hooked.
Connor is your typical closed-off, broody boss with a face carved by angels and the social skills of a damp rock. The heroine is chaotic in the best way, and their chemistry kicks in immediately—even when they’re low-key trying to ruin each other’s day. Their dynamic at work had me laughing more than once, especially because he very obviously does not know what to do with someone as warm and messy as her.
What really surprised me was how much heart the story had once the kids got involved. The rivalry between his daughter and her half-sister was hilarious and oddly wholesome, and it gave the main characters an excuse (or maybe an inevitability) to start softening toward each other. The progression from enemies, to reluctant allies, to “oh no, I actually like you” felt natural and sweet.
The romance itself was slow-burn in the best way. The kiss hits just right, and everything after that is a mix of swoons, tension, and the kind of internal freak-outs that make workplace romances so entertaining.
If you like grumpy bosses who secretly have hearts of molten goo, sunshine heroines who bulldoze their way into people’s lives, and stories that blend humor with genuine emotion, this one is a very solid pick. Light, fun, romantic—exactly what I wanted.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Relay Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Connor is your typical closed-off, broody boss with a face carved by angels and the social skills of a damp rock. The heroine is chaotic in the best way, and their chemistry kicks in immediately—even when they’re low-key trying to ruin each other’s day. Their dynamic at work had me laughing more than once, especially because he very obviously does not know what to do with someone as warm and messy as her.
What really surprised me was how much heart the story had once the kids got involved. The rivalry between his daughter and her half-sister was hilarious and oddly wholesome, and it gave the main characters an excuse (or maybe an inevitability) to start softening toward each other. The progression from enemies, to reluctant allies, to “oh no, I actually like you” felt natural and sweet.
The romance itself was slow-burn in the best way. The kiss hits just right, and everything after that is a mix of swoons, tension, and the kind of internal freak-outs that make workplace romances so entertaining.
If you like grumpy bosses who secretly have hearts of molten goo, sunshine heroines who bulldoze their way into people’s lives, and stories that blend humor with genuine emotion, this one is a very solid pick. Light, fun, romantic—exactly what I wanted.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Relay Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
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