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His Feisty Fireball: A He Falls First, Rivals to Friends to Lovers Romance
The moment Jacob met the fiery redhead he knew in his bones Lizzie was the one for him, but the only L word said redhead feels for Jacob appears to be loathing. His Feisty Fireball is a spicy, he falls first, reverse grumpy sunshine, rivals to friends to lovers, laugh out loud romance.
Jacob is a man on a mission, and nothing is going to stop him from winning Lizzie's heart. He’ll prove he’s the right man for her, that he’s in it for the long run, no matter what past traumas try to get in their way. He will be the epitome of a golden retriever book boyfriend.
Lizzie learned at a very young age from her mother that love, or better termed lust, at first sight doesn’t last. So, when Jacob saunters into her life and her body comes alive, her first instinct is to run like hell. Yet no matter how many times she pushes him away, Jacob is always persistent, and she’s losing her resolve.
*This is a slow burn, standalone contemporary romance with an HEA written in third person POV intended for adult readers. The Johnston Brothers books may be read in any order but best read in order for optimal enjoyment in terms of timeline.
Jacob is a man on a mission, and nothing is going to stop him from winning Lizzie's heart. He’ll prove he’s the right man for her, that he’s in it for the long run, no matter what past traumas try to get in their way. He will be the epitome of a golden retriever book boyfriend.
Lizzie learned at a very young age from her mother that love, or better termed lust, at first sight doesn’t last. So, when Jacob saunters into her life and her body comes alive, her first instinct is to run like hell. Yet no matter how many times she pushes him away, Jacob is always persistent, and she’s losing her resolve.
*This is a slow burn, standalone contemporary romance with an HEA written in third person POV intended for adult readers. The Johnston Brothers books may be read in any order but best read in order for optimal enjoyment in terms of timeline.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
1385 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jacob and Lizzie
Tropes:
* Rivals to friends to lovers
* Reverse grumpy x sunshine
* Golden retriever MMC
* Feisty FMC
* “She doesn’t believe in love”
* “He falls first” (And hard!)
* Slow-burn
So, Jacob and Lizzie meet, and he’s apparently smitten. And then, everytime she shoots him down, he seems to leave with a different women… So he confirms Lizzie’s belief that he’s a player and it continues the cycle…
We re-enter a year later, then a few months later, and things haven’t changed…
So, I did spend time wondering how this matched the blurb. It says he’s on a mission to prove he’s for her, because, to me, going home with different women says otherwise…
Which brings us to present day… and I actually had to question Jacob’s intelligence… Did he actually do anything to show or say he wanted long-term, or did he just keep spewing out lines?
I actually struggled. I couldn’t truly get into this. There’s slow… and there’s slow… I got to 60%, and just had to skim.
Elizabeth “Lizzie” annoyed me with he neurotic thoughts… They were just so OTT - stealing her ‘O’, and complaining that everyone else will be together because they love each other, but she doesn’t believe in lasting love? GTFOH…
The writing itself was good, just the topic and execution of said topic just didn’t work for me.
Other people clearly enjoy it, and other people will in future. But this was clearly not for me.
Tropes:
* Rivals to friends to lovers
* Reverse grumpy x sunshine
* Golden retriever MMC
* Feisty FMC
* “She doesn’t believe in love”
* “He falls first” (And hard!)
* Slow-burn
So, Jacob and Lizzie meet, and he’s apparently smitten. And then, everytime she shoots him down, he seems to leave with a different women… So he confirms Lizzie’s belief that he’s a player and it continues the cycle…
We re-enter a year later, then a few months later, and things haven’t changed…
So, I did spend time wondering how this matched the blurb. It says he’s on a mission to prove he’s for her, because, to me, going home with different women says otherwise…
Which brings us to present day… and I actually had to question Jacob’s intelligence… Did he actually do anything to show or say he wanted long-term, or did he just keep spewing out lines?
I actually struggled. I couldn’t truly get into this. There’s slow… and there’s slow… I got to 60%, and just had to skim.
Elizabeth “Lizzie” annoyed me with he neurotic thoughts… They were just so OTT - stealing her ‘O’, and complaining that everyone else will be together because they love each other, but she doesn’t believe in lasting love? GTFOH…
The writing itself was good, just the topic and execution of said topic just didn’t work for me.
Other people clearly enjoy it, and other people will in future. But this was clearly not for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Very cozy, fun, and it had me chuckling in quite a few spots. All of the characters were enjoyable, and the overall vibe made this a comforting yet engaging story. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it was a very pleasant introduction to her work.
The story is a slow burn, which worked really well here. The spice is tastefully done and never takes away from the book or the development of the story, it complements it nicely.
The writing style is different, but not in a bad way. It’s written mostly in third-person POV, with the characters’ internal thoughts presented in first person within their respective chapters. It took a minute to adjust to, but it helped connect with the characters in a fun, intimate way. That said, at times the internal thoughts gave away a bit too much of what was about to happen, and I would have preferred fewer clues. That’s ultimately why I landed on four stars instead of five.
The Johnston brothers’ dynamics were absolutely priceless and added so much to the story. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
This was an ARC review, and I’m glad I had the chance to read this book.
🌶️🌶️
Very cozy, fun, and it had me chuckling in quite a few spots. All of the characters were enjoyable, and the overall vibe made this a comforting yet engaging story. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it was a very pleasant introduction to her work.
The story is a slow burn, which worked really well here. The spice is tastefully done and never takes away from the book or the development of the story, it complements it nicely.
The writing style is different, but not in a bad way. It’s written mostly in third-person POV, with the characters’ internal thoughts presented in first person within their respective chapters. It took a minute to adjust to, but it helped connect with the characters in a fun, intimate way. That said, at times the internal thoughts gave away a bit too much of what was about to happen, and I would have preferred fewer clues. That’s ultimately why I landed on four stars instead of five.
The Johnston brothers’ dynamics were absolutely priceless and added so much to the story. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
This was an ARC review, and I’m glad I had the chance to read this book.
January 22, 2026
I love Endria Nuaros and am so excited she has expanded her Willow Street Girls world! I adored the first book in Johnston Brothers series (Her Love Lesson) so I was excited to jump into Lizzie and Jacob’s story.
While the storyline hooked me right away (going back over their appearances in Her Love Lesson - genius) because a grumpy FMC is one of my favorites, I struggled a bit with the dialogue. The exchanges between characters seemed stilted and awkward at times. It wasn’t anything specific-it just didn’t feel natural a lot of the time. It often took me out of the story.
That being said, what a master move having a book club in the story read the author’s first book! Ha! PERFECTION! I also liked that it wasn’t all first person. In the chapters, it was third person with “clips” of first person. That made it fun and very easy to imagine. I also have to admit, as a redheaded teacher who is often called grumpy, Lizzie found a special place in my heart! Jacob was the perfect counterbalance - and the texts between the brothers were hilarious!
I’m looking forward to Joe & Kate’s story!
While the storyline hooked me right away (going back over their appearances in Her Love Lesson - genius) because a grumpy FMC is one of my favorites, I struggled a bit with the dialogue. The exchanges between characters seemed stilted and awkward at times. It wasn’t anything specific-it just didn’t feel natural a lot of the time. It often took me out of the story.
That being said, what a master move having a book club in the story read the author’s first book! Ha! PERFECTION! I also liked that it wasn’t all first person. In the chapters, it was third person with “clips” of first person. That made it fun and very easy to imagine. I also have to admit, as a redheaded teacher who is often called grumpy, Lizzie found a special place in my heart! Jacob was the perfect counterbalance - and the texts between the brothers were hilarious!
I’m looking forward to Joe & Kate’s story!
February 3, 2026
His Feisty Fireball was an absolute delight and an easy five-star read for me. If you love a he-falls-first trope, this one will have you smiling from start to finish.
What I Loved:
Jacob is your classic golden retriever playboy—in the very best way. He’s hot, smart, sassy, and oh yes… a pilot 🫠🫠🫠. From the start, his charm is undeniable, and watching him fall first (and hard) was incredibly satisfying.
Lizzie, though, really stole my heart. Endria did an amazing job capturing the redhead personality—the sass, the quick quips, the feistiness—it all felt so authentic. I related to Lizzie deeply, especially her struggles with negative self-talk and the lasting impact of things said to her. Her mommy issues were portrayed with a lot of honesty and care, which made her character feel very real and easy to connect with.
And yes—this story delivers a well-earned HEA, which made it even better.
Personal Note:
I happen to have my own personal Jacob—also a pilot—and I can confidently confirm… they really are the best 😉
If you’re looking for a fun, heartfelt romance with strong character growth, swoony moments, and a lovable MMC who falls first, His Feisty Fireball is a must-read.
What I Loved:
Jacob is your classic golden retriever playboy—in the very best way. He’s hot, smart, sassy, and oh yes… a pilot 🫠🫠🫠. From the start, his charm is undeniable, and watching him fall first (and hard) was incredibly satisfying.
Lizzie, though, really stole my heart. Endria did an amazing job capturing the redhead personality—the sass, the quick quips, the feistiness—it all felt so authentic. I related to Lizzie deeply, especially her struggles with negative self-talk and the lasting impact of things said to her. Her mommy issues were portrayed with a lot of honesty and care, which made her character feel very real and easy to connect with.
And yes—this story delivers a well-earned HEA, which made it even better.
Personal Note:
I happen to have my own personal Jacob—also a pilot—and I can confidently confirm… they really are the best 😉
If you’re looking for a fun, heartfelt romance with strong character growth, swoony moments, and a lovable MMC who falls first, His Feisty Fireball is a must-read.
February 3, 2026
This contemporary romance has a clear premise and a very accessible and straightforward writing style. The tone is very youthful, and the interest (enemies to lovers esque!) is introduced early, which will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy quick, fast paced reads (while still being an appealing slow burn!) with an emphasis on vibes over complexity.
I am a Savannah native, and this book is based on Banana Ball. I thought the idea of that was so appealing!! So while I really appreciated the concept, I personally had a hard time connecting with the writing style early on, so this one ultimately wasn’t the best fit for my reading preferences. That said, readers who enjoy contemporary romances with a simpler style and fast setup may really love it!
Overall, a solid option for the right audience!!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader! It was such a fun experience!!
I am a Savannah native, and this book is based on Banana Ball. I thought the idea of that was so appealing!! So while I really appreciated the concept, I personally had a hard time connecting with the writing style early on, so this one ultimately wasn’t the best fit for my reading preferences. That said, readers who enjoy contemporary romances with a simpler style and fast setup may really love it!
Overall, a solid option for the right audience!!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader! It was such a fun experience!!
February 3, 2026
She is absolutely his feisty fireball 🔥
Lizzie is an FMC carrying a lot of trauma and deep-rooted commitment issues, largely stemming from her relationship with her mother. Because of this, she keeps Jacob at arm’s length, refusing to acknowledge the feelings she has for him and instead channeling them into a loathing, passion-filled tension whenever he’s around.
Thankfully, Jacob is everything you want in an MMC. He’s patient, persistent, and refuses to give up on Lizzie, even when she puts him through the wringer. This is the slowest of slow burns, but when they finally come together, they’re incredibly cute and rewarding as a couple.
Overall, this was a fun, light rom-com with great tension, emotional growth, and a payoff that made the slow burn worth it.
Tropes:
✨ He Falls First
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Rivals to Friends to Lovers
✨ Reverse Grumpy / Sunshine
✨ Golden Retriever Boyfriend
✨ Small-Town Romance
✨ Witty Banter
✨ Envy-Worthy Friendships
✨ HEA
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Lizzie is an FMC carrying a lot of trauma and deep-rooted commitment issues, largely stemming from her relationship with her mother. Because of this, she keeps Jacob at arm’s length, refusing to acknowledge the feelings she has for him and instead channeling them into a loathing, passion-filled tension whenever he’s around.
Thankfully, Jacob is everything you want in an MMC. He’s patient, persistent, and refuses to give up on Lizzie, even when she puts him through the wringer. This is the slowest of slow burns, but when they finally come together, they’re incredibly cute and rewarding as a couple.
Overall, this was a fun, light rom-com with great tension, emotional growth, and a payoff that made the slow burn worth it.
Tropes:
✨ He Falls First
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Rivals to Friends to Lovers
✨ Reverse Grumpy / Sunshine
✨ Golden Retriever Boyfriend
✨ Small-Town Romance
✨ Witty Banter
✨ Envy-Worthy Friendships
✨ HEA
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
January 13, 2026
This was an enjoyable read with a feisty FMC with some spice. Elizabeth does not believe in love and does not want a relationship. Jacob is the middle Johnston brother looking for a love like his parents have. As Elizabeth is working through her issues, will Jacob convince her to give love another chance? Read this cute love story to find out!
This is a slow-burn, contemporary romance. I like the build up of the character’s personalities and real life issues. It took a minute for me to get into the story, but I am glad I stuck with it.
The book is written in third person POV, with the character’s thoughts in first person. It wasn’t so bad in the author’s other books, but this book I was a bit distracted by it.
This is a slow-burn, contemporary romance. I like the build up of the character’s personalities and real life issues. It took a minute for me to get into the story, but I am glad I stuck with it.
The book is written in third person POV, with the character’s thoughts in first person. It wasn’t so bad in the author’s other books, but this book I was a bit distracted by it.
February 3, 2026
🌶️🌶️
This started out super slow for me, but I’m not one to DNF a book. I kept on pushing and it ended up being a good book!
Golden retriever energy from our MMC. I can tell it irritates of FMC, but hey who doesn’t get irritated by men?
The spice level is just right for those who don’t mind it but don’t want it in your face. It’s definitely a good book and there are others to follow, so I’m interested to see what happens next.
If inner monologues are not for you, be forewarned, there’s a lot of it here from Lizzie. Aside from that, it’s good and I will read future books.
There are books that came before it, but they don’t need to be read before reading this one.
I read this as an ARC, but it’s really good, easy to read. There were some things I was expecting that I don’t recall happening, but maybe I just missed them.
This started out super slow for me, but I’m not one to DNF a book. I kept on pushing and it ended up being a good book!
Golden retriever energy from our MMC. I can tell it irritates of FMC, but hey who doesn’t get irritated by men?
The spice level is just right for those who don’t mind it but don’t want it in your face. It’s definitely a good book and there are others to follow, so I’m interested to see what happens next.
If inner monologues are not for you, be forewarned, there’s a lot of it here from Lizzie. Aside from that, it’s good and I will read future books.
There are books that came before it, but they don’t need to be read before reading this one.
I read this as an ARC, but it’s really good, easy to read. There were some things I was expecting that I don’t recall happening, but maybe I just missed them.
February 3, 2026
Oh those brothers, they all have something that just makes you grin and makes you want more of them.
In this, we get Jacob and Lizzie's story and let me tell you, it’s a slow burn at its finest. See, Jakey here falls hard and fast for Lizzie, but she’s such a flight risk. Her mom, being a vile lady, spewed stuff that made Lizzie believe she didn't deserve a good man, so she kept Jacob at bay. But Jacob's feelings ran too deep to ever be denied or let it go. His moments of making her smile while pursuing here are beautiful and his patience is so swoon worthy. He stole my heart with his love.
If you want a feel good read with a different view, let’s be honest, I adore stories like that, than make sure to grab this one because it’s all a little backwards but so worth it.
In this, we get Jacob and Lizzie's story and let me tell you, it’s a slow burn at its finest. See, Jakey here falls hard and fast for Lizzie, but she’s such a flight risk. Her mom, being a vile lady, spewed stuff that made Lizzie believe she didn't deserve a good man, so she kept Jacob at bay. But Jacob's feelings ran too deep to ever be denied or let it go. His moments of making her smile while pursuing here are beautiful and his patience is so swoon worthy. He stole my heart with his love.
If you want a feel good read with a different view, let’s be honest, I adore stories like that, than make sure to grab this one because it’s all a little backwards but so worth it.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Will one assumption steal their chance? Have you ever had your “O” stolen? How do you get it back? Do I have your attention yet? Ok well, His Feisty Fireball is a slow burn, she fights and he never gives up spicy sports romance. I enjoyed watching their stories unfold! Their banter will make you laugh and their storylines will make you have all the feels!!
Favorite quote: “Because despite the fact of how you feel about me, I care a lot about you. And I wanted to share something with you to show you how I feel. I don’t just want to sleep with you, Elizabeth. I want more. So much more. So, here we are.”
Just wait til you see what he did! 🥰
Favorite quote: “Because despite the fact of how you feel about me, I care a lot about you. And I wanted to share something with you to show you how I feel. I don’t just want to sleep with you, Elizabeth. I want more. So much more. So, here we are.”
Just wait til you see what he did! 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the fourth book I’ve read from this author and I have enjoyed each book. Each of her FMCs resonate with either who I am or who I want to be.
I loved that the FMC, Elizabeth, had some family stuff she has to work through and it doesn’t resolve in the way you think it might.
The MMC does such a good job at being emotionally mature and having a deep understanding of realizing what someone needs from a mental health standpoint that he definitely gets added to the “book boyfriends” list.
Definitely worth the read.
I loved that the FMC, Elizabeth, had some family stuff she has to work through and it doesn’t resolve in the way you think it might.
The MMC does such a good job at being emotionally mature and having a deep understanding of realizing what someone needs from a mental health standpoint that he definitely gets added to the “book boyfriends” list.
Definitely worth the read.
January 27, 2026
Review and my personal opinion:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5
This was a cute little romance book. It shows patience, healing, as well as a cliffhanger for the next book. (Which now I must know!!)
This is a small town romance where he falls first and never gives up. Jacob knows what he wants and goes after her. Lizzie comes from a traumatic emotional past and thinks she’s as messed up as her mother. Jacob must show Lizzie that love really does and can exist.
“Can I draw you like the Titanic?
“Watch out, Lizzie, I’m coming for you, Fireball”
“I am smart. I am pretty. And I’m fucking fabulous in bed. But Elizabeth, she’s kind, loving, responsible, hardworking, and doesn’t give a rats ass if someone has money. She’s more of a grown woman than you’ll ever be.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5
This was a cute little romance book. It shows patience, healing, as well as a cliffhanger for the next book. (Which now I must know!!)
This is a small town romance where he falls first and never gives up. Jacob knows what he wants and goes after her. Lizzie comes from a traumatic emotional past and thinks she’s as messed up as her mother. Jacob must show Lizzie that love really does and can exist.
“Can I draw you like the Titanic?
“Watch out, Lizzie, I’m coming for you, Fireball”
“I am smart. I am pretty. And I’m fucking fabulous in bed. But Elizabeth, she’s kind, loving, responsible, hardworking, and doesn’t give a rats ass if someone has money. She’s more of a grown woman than you’ll ever be.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was an absolute delight to read! My heart needed this so much! Jacob and Elizabeth are destined. It’s written in the stars. A slow burn, but a very powerful journey. Love can be so scary and complicated. Elizabeth just got in her own way and Jacob knew that patience would prevail. The banter was hilarious. I loved the on-going relationships with brothers, in-laws, family, and friends. This love story is truly a team effort!!!
I am a huge fan of this author. She is so clever and writes such fascinating and relatable characters. Joseph and Kate’s story is going to be epic🩷
I am a huge fan of this author. She is so clever and writes such fascinating and relatable characters. Joseph and Kate’s story is going to be epic🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
I saw the cover of the book. And it was about softball. I wanted to read it.
In the beginning I was a little confuesed. About the fast pace, of the time line.
When I past the few chapters. I started to fell in love with this book.
The humor of Jacob and his brothers. It was priceless.
The way you see Elizabeth struggle with love, because of her past.
Jacob was a player . But for her, he wants to change.
In the beginning I was a little confuesed. About the fast pace, of the time line.
When I past the few chapters. I started to fell in love with this book.
The humor of Jacob and his brothers. It was priceless.
The way you see Elizabeth struggle with love, because of her past.
Jacob was a player . But for her, he wants to change.
February 2, 2026
I have looked forward to reading His Feisty Fireball since I finished Her Love Lesson, and it lived up to all of my expectations. She portrayed the growth that Jacob and Lizzie go through in their own ways throughout the story, effectively making me feel the fear, sadness, and love that Lizzie felt in varying experiences with family members, Jacob, and her friends. Also, this book set up Endria’s next book perfectly, leaving me hanging at the end of my seat, hoping there was another page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 He falls first
🖤 grumpy/sunshine
This book was so delightful and incredibly written. Jacob was completely obsessed with Elizabeth, and she did everything in her power to ignore him the best she could. Their chemistry and banter were just amazing and when she finally admits her feelings it was just perfect. There was no aspect of this book that I didn’t enjoy.
These are my honest thoughts.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 He falls first
🖤 grumpy/sunshine
This book was so delightful and incredibly written. Jacob was completely obsessed with Elizabeth, and she did everything in her power to ignore him the best she could. Their chemistry and banter were just amazing and when she finally admits her feelings it was just perfect. There was no aspect of this book that I didn’t enjoy.
These are my honest thoughts.
January 11, 2026
Loved this book sooo much!!! It is a must read for sure, Elizabeth’s fears and emotional scars, Jacob’s patience and sillyness, Mimi Ruby’s sass, The everything works perfectly to create a lovely love story.
Also, if you haven’t already, read the others books by this author cause they are amazing!
Also, if you haven’t already, read the others books by this author cause they are amazing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the banter throughout this book. As someone who has been in both Jacob and Lizzie's shoes, this was a fast, fun read. My new favorite saying will now come from this book: "That takes boobs!" You'll have to read it to find out what it means. 😄
I'm looking forward to checking out the author's other books.
I'm looking forward to checking out the author's other books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A cozy, fun read! As someone who used to play softball, I simply *had* to read this. This is my first time reading a book by Endria and I will definitely be reading her other works. I enjoyed the writing; it's mostly in third person POV. Our FMC is the feisty / grumpy one and the MMC is very much golden retriever. Mild spice, he falls first, and slow burn. I highly recommend picking this one up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love, love, loved the newest installment by Endria Nuaros! I did not put it down as soon as I started it! I love the world she has created and feel like I know these characters in real life. This newest book has so much spunk and relatable humor. The way she touches on anxiety and being in your own head - it is so relatable. I cannot wait for the next adventure as soon it comes out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness what a wild ride for Jake and Lizzie! Love the banter between them! Truly enjoyed getting to be an arc reader and would recommend this book! Looking forward to the next Johnston brother's story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cute, sassy, and the snarky banter between Elizabeth and Jacob had me smiling. Elizabeth had to realize she’s not her parents was so satisfying. Let's not forget Elizabeth's laser focused about the O. This is a sweet fun romance, with spice, and major cozy vibes. Perfect for a quick, feel-good read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love a great slow-burn, he-falls-first story!!! Love Jacob and Lizzie’s relationship!! Also love the brothers in this story Joshua/Jacob/Joseph. Can’t wait for the next book!!
January 24, 2026
This was my 1st book of hers, and it was also an ARC. I LOVED it! So so good. I’ve already looked up the other books in the series and CAN’T WAIT for the next one as well!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this entire series - this book didn’t disappoint at all. I love all the characters and felt so connected to all of them! Endria you are an awesome writer - I can’t wait for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn’t know how I would feel about this story by the title, but one chapter in and I was hooked. I love the banter between the main characters and the playfulness of the story itself. Since this was my first read from this author as an ARC, I now need to go back to read the books for the other characters in the story. I highly recommend if you need a light read that will make you laugh. Now to go back to the beginning!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews