Grump And The Single Mom Next Door: A Small-Town Grumpy Sunshine Romance

by Ginger Rayz, Devon Youngblood

Enemies to lovers. Single mom. Cowboy billionaire.
Yeah, I didn’t see that coming either.

He’s the grump next door with secrets.
I’m the single mom who can’t stay away.

Colton Hayes is all boots, brood, and billionaire baggage—the kind of man who glares like he’s allergic to feelings.
I’m the woman who spilled coffee on his boots at my job interview…
and still got hired.

Now I’m running his 4-H Foundation from his ranch, trying not to notice how good he looks in denim—or how his voice drops when he calls me trouble.

He’s gruff. Gorgeous.
The wrong kind of distraction.

But nights on the ranch get long, and one touch under the Texas stars changes everything.
Between late-night arguments, stolen glances, and him teaching my daughter to ride, the grump next door becomes the man I can’t resist.

Then gossip turns deadly.
Money goes missing.
My little girl vanishes.

And the man I thought was untouchable will burn the whole damn town down to bring her home.

232 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

About the author
Hi, I’m Ginger Rayz, and I write steamy small-town romances where protective grumps fall hard for strong, curvy heroines who know their worth.

My stories blend heart, heat, and humor with all the cozy, messy moments that make love worth the risk. Expect slow-burn tension, diner coffee, and that one-bed-away kind of temptation that keeps you up past midnight.

When I’m not writing about stubborn heroes and swoony second chances, I’m probably sipping coffee, chasing sunsets, or eavesdropping on small-town conversations (purely for research, of course).

If you love cinnamon-roll scents, Texas charm, and happily-ever-afters that leave you smiling, you’re in the right place.

Reviews

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute story, well written, can't put it down! Love Ginger Rayz

[Mcrea Ellington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up Grump And The Single Mom Next Door expecting a fun cowboy romance, but what I got was so much deeper and more emotional than I anticipated. Ginger Rayz absolutely nails the enemies-to-lovers tension. From the very first coffee-on-the-boots moment, the chemistry between Colton and the heroine crackles with sharp dialogue, frustration, and undeniable attraction.

Colton Hayes is the kind of grumpy hero romance readers dream about-emotionally guarded, fiercely loyal, and secretly soft where it counts. Watching him slowly open up, especially through his bond with the heroine’s daughter, melted my heart. The single-mom representation felt real and respectful, balancing romance with responsibility in a way that made me root for her every step of the way.

What truly surprised me was the suspense element. The shift from slow-burn romance to high-stakes danger was seamless and gripping. By the time the child goes missing, I was emotionally invested and flipping pages like my life depended on it. The emotional payoff was powerful, satisfying, and worth every ounce of tension.

If you love cowboy billionaires, strong single moms, and romance with real emotional stakes, this book is a must-read. I’m already recommending it to every romance reader I know.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ginger Rayz delivers a romance that hits you right in the heart. Grump And The Single Mom Next Door is not just about attraction, It’s about trust, healing, and choosing love when it feels risky.

The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is executed beautifully, with plenty of tension and realistic emotional pushback. Colton is gruff, stubborn, and emotionally unavailable in a way that feels authentic, not cartoonish. The heroine challenges him without trying to change him, which made their relationship feel earned.

I especially loved the way the child was written-sweet, smart, and central to the emotional core of the story without ever feeling exploited for drama. The bond that forms between Colton and the little girl is tender and meaningful, and it makes the later conflict hit even harder.

The suspense plot adds urgency and danger, elevating this from a standard romance into something unforgettable. By the end, I was emotionally wrecked-in the best way. The resolution is satisfying, heartfelt, and leaves you believing deeply in the love story you’ve just experienced.

This is a book I will happily recommend to romance readers who love protective heroes, found family, and stories that make you feel everything.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed "GRUMP AND THE SINGLE MOM NEXT DOOR" I was pulled into this intriguing, interesting, intense, mysterious, emotional turmoil journey with plenty of suspense, danger, steam, keeping you on edge.
Colton Hayes hires the single mom Vet Tech Lila next door to his ranch to run the 4-H event on his property he doesn't like crowds not since losing his best friend during an event the accident was mean't for him & he hasn't been the same the since.
Colton is attracted to Lila & he likes her 7yr old daughter Maddie who goes missing at the event having Sheriff Riley & others frantically searching for her.
A man in a windbreaker not suppose to be there from "Blue Spurs" plus gossip that turns things deadly Lila who thought Colton was untouchable shows he'll tear the whole town apart to find Maddie & bring her home.
Will Colton find Maddie safe & sound to bring back to Lila giving them a chance a HEA the mystery surrounding it all being revealed a page turner you don't want to miss.

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into Grump And The Single Mom Next Door expecting a light, trope-filled romance and ended up with a story that had far more heart than I was ready for. This book leans heavily into emotional growth, and I appreciated how naturally it unfolded instead of rushing the romance.

Colton Hayes isn’t instantly likable and that’s what makes him compelling. He’s rough around the edges, deeply private, and clearly carrying baggage he hasn’t unpacked. Watching him interact with the heroine and her daughter slowly chipped away at that hard exterior in a way that felt organic and believable.

The pacing is excellent. The romance simmers instead of exploding, which made every breakthrough moment feel earned. When the danger escalates, it doesn’t feel tacked on-it raises the emotional stakes and reinforces just how much these characters mean to one another.

Readers who enjoy slow-burn romances with emotional payoff and family-centered storytelling will absolutely want to add this to their TBR.

[Kellyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reclusive billionaire cowboy Colton Hayes hires his neighbour, single mom and Vet Tech Lila, to manage a 4-H event on his ranch. Haunted by an accident that killed his best friend, Colton avoids people, but quickly bonds with Lila's seven-year-old daughter, Maddie.

Their initial enemies-to-lovers dynamic deepens when Maddie vanishes during the event, sparking a frantic search led by Sheriff Riley. The mystery involves a man from "Blue Spurs" and damaging town gossip, turning the situation deadly. Witnessing Colton's fierce protectiveness, Lila sees a man capable of fighting for family.

The book expertly blends heartfelt romance with genuine suspense. This page-turner explores trust, family, and resilience. Highly recommended for fans of powerful, heartfelt romance with a substantial, suspenseful plot.

[Eleanor Seth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely swept me away. What starts as a classic enemies-to-lovers setup quickly becomes something much deeper and more emotional. Colton Hayes is the perfect grumpy cowboy billionaire-closed off, intimidating, and clearly carrying more pain than he lets on. Watching his walls slowly come down, especially around the heroine and her daughter, was incredibly rewarding.

What truly impressed me was how Ginger Rayz balanced romance with suspense. The missing money, the gossip, and the eventual disappearance of the child added genuine tension and urgency. As a reader, I was emotionally invested. As a teacher, I appreciated the strong themes of trust, family, and resilience. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves heartfelt romance with substance.

[Liora Ellington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grump And The Single Mom Next Door delivers everything I love in a romance novel: strong characters, emotional depth, and high-stakes tension. Colton Hayes is the classic grumpy billionaire cowboy, but Ginger Rayz gives him layers that make him unforgettable. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic feels natural and earned, especially with the added pressure of single motherhood and small-town scrutiny. What truly stood out was the way family and protection are woven into the love story. When danger strikes and the child goes missing, the emotional intensity skyrockets. This book is romantic, thrilling, and deeply heartfelt. I highly recommend it to romance readers and fellow writers looking for a story that balances passion with real emotional stakes.

[Liora Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely hooked me from the first chapter. Ginger Rayz writes chemistry exceptionally well, and the tension between Colton and the single mom next door is electric. The ranch setting, the billionaire secret, and the slow-burning romance all come together beautifully. I loved how the heroine’s role as a mother wasn’t sidelined—it’s central to the story and raises the stakes in a powerful way. When the plot turns darker with betrayal and danger, the story becomes impossible to put down. This is the kind of romance that satisfies both emotionally and dramatically. I would absolutely recommend this book to romance lovers and writers who enjoy layered characters and compelling pacing.

[Sabha The · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up Grump And The Single Mom Next Door expecting a light enemies-to-lovers romance, but Ginger Rayz delivered so much more. Colton Hayes is the kind of grumpy hero you love to hate-closed off, guarded, and clearly carrying emotional weight. Watching his walls slowly crumble was incredibly satisfying.

The single-mom perspective felt authentic and respectful, especially the way motherhood was woven naturally into the romance rather than treated as an obstacle. The ranch setting added warmth and atmosphere, and the tension between the leads was perfectly paced.

I would highly recommend this book to romance lovers who enjoy emotional depth, as well as aspiring writers studying how to balance romance, suspense, and family themes in a contemporary setting.

[Athena Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected a fun cowboy romance, but I got so much more. The single-mom heroine is written with honesty and strength, never feeling helpless or one-dimensional. Her love for her daughter anchors the entire story and makes every decision feel real and high-stakes.

Colton’s transformation from emotionally distant grump to fiercely protective partner was beautifully paced. The ranch setting felt authentic, and the 4-H Foundation storyline added depth and purpose. As a college student, I admired how the author handled power dynamics respectfully. This is a book I’d recommend to romance readers who want emotion, danger, and growth-not just chemistry.

[Janet Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colton Hayes may glare like he hates the world, but underneath all that brood is one of the most compelling romance heroes I’ve read in a long time. Ginger Rayz gives him layers-guilt, responsibility, tenderness-that slowly reveal themselves through actions rather than words.

The relationship development felt natural and earned, especially as the heroine balances her career, motherhood, and complicated feelings. The suspense subplot genuinely surprised me and raised the emotional stakes. As a teacher and lifelong reader, I appreciate romances that show love as commitment and action. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys strong heroines and redemption-driven heroes.

[Avery Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hooked me from the very first chapter. The accidental coffee spill, the tension-filled job interview, and the ranch atmosphere all pulled me in immediately. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, but what kept me reading was the emotional vulnerability beneath the banter.

When the story shifted into suspense territory, I was genuinely anxious for the characters. The author handled the danger with care, keeping the focus on love, family, and protection. As a reader and parent, this story resonated deeply. I would gladly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance with heart and high stakes.

[Sarah Waitley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I truly appreciated was how thoughtfully the author portrayed single motherhood. The heroine’s daughter is not an afterthought-she is central to the story and to Colton’s growth. Seeing him teach her to ride and protect her without hesitation added so much emotional weight.

The romance never felt rushed or unrealistic. It unfolds through shared responsibility, trust, and difficult choices. As a literature teacher, I admire how Ginger Rayz weaves emotional development alongside plot tension. This is a wonderful recommendation for readers who want romance grounded in real life and genuine care.

[John Skyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colton Hayes may start off as a grumpy, emotionally closed-off billionaire, but Ginger Rayz slowly peels back his layers in the most satisfying way. The heroine is strong, relatable, and refreshingly grounded as a single mom trying to build stability for her child. Their banter is sharp, their chemistry undeniable, and the Texas ranch setting adds charm and atmosphere. When the plot takes a darker turn, the emotional impact hits hard. This book proves that romance can be tender, thrilling, and protective all at once. I’d happily recommend this to romance readers and writers looking for a well-paced story with depth and heart.

[Lioren Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel surprised me in the best way. What begins as a classic grumpy-neighbor romance evolves into a high-stakes story about loyalty, family, and love under pressure. Ginger Rayz writes emotional tension just as well as romantic tension, and the balance is impressive. The heroine’s bond with her daughter adds authenticity, while Colton’s transformation from guarded loner to fierce protector feels powerful and believable. The suspense element raises the stakes without overshadowing the romance. This is a compelling, emotionally rich read that I would gladly recommend to fellow book lovers and writers who appreciate romance with substance.

[Delphine Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me in the best way. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic was sharp and believable, filled with witty banter and emotional tension. Colton’s gruff exterior paired with his quiet moments of care especially with the heroine’s daughter, Added so much heart to the story.

The suspense element toward the end genuinely raised my pulse and elevated the romance stakes. It wasn’t just about falling in love; it was about trust, protection, and growth.

I’d recommend this to romance readers, creative writing students, and anyone interested in studying how genre blending can strengthen a story rather than distract from it.

[Rose Willy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Texas ranch setting was vivid and immersive, making the story feel grounded and alive. Ginger Rayz captures the contrast between wide-open landscapes and emotionally closed-off characters perfectly. Colton’s gruff exterior versus his quiet acts of devotion made him unforgettable.

As a student reader, I loved how the book blended romance with mystery without overpowering either element. The emotional payoff at the end was incredibly satisfying. I would strongly recommend this novel to book lovers who enjoy slow-burn romance with suspense and emotional payoff.

[Paul Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grump And The Single Mom Next Door completely swept me away. Ginger Rayz nails the enemies-to-lovers tension from the very first chapter, and Colton Hayes is the kind of grumpy cowboy hero romance readers dream about. What really made this book special, though, was the single-mom element, The heroine’s love for her daughter added emotional depth and real stakes. The mix of slow-burn romance, ranch life, and high-stakes drama kept me glued to the pages. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves heartfelt romance with suspense and soul.

[Emily Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely swept me away. Ginger Rayz delivers a powerful enemies-to-lovers romance that balances heart, heat, and real emotional stakes. Colton Hayes is the kind of grumpy hero you love to hate at first-closed off, intimidating, and emotionally guarded-but watching him soften, especially with the heroine’s daughter, was deeply satisfying. The ranch setting is vivid, the tension crackles, and the suspense element had me glued to the pages. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to romance lovers who enjoy depth with their passion.

[Lio · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of romance that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place. The slow burn is delicious, the chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional payoff is immense. The cowboy billionaire trope is refreshed with meaningful responsibilities and moral weight, making the hero far more than just a fantasy figure. The ranch setting adds warmth and atmosphere, grounding the story in a sense of place. I would recommend this to anyone who loves deep emotional connections in romance.

[Noah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story beautifully captures the balance between vulnerability and strength that defines single motherhood. The heroine doesn’t abandon her responsibilities for romance, and the love story grows around her role as a parent rather than despite it. Watching the hero slowly earn the trust of both mother and child was incredibly satisfying. The emotional tension kept me on edge, especially during the climax. I would recommend this book to parents who want a romance that understands real-life stakes.

[Tim Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grump And The Single Mom Next Door completely pulled me in from the start. I loved how the enemies-to-lovers trope was handled with patience and realism instead of rushing straight to romance. The tension between the characters felt earned, and the single-mom storyline added an emotional depth that made the relationship feel grounded and meaningful. Colton’s gruff personality contrasted so well with his quiet sense of responsibility and care. This is a book I would confidently recommend to romance readers who enjoy emotional development and strong character arcs.

[Jonna Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out most was the emotional maturity of this story. The conflicts aren’t just misunderstandings-they’re rooted in fear, responsibility, and past trauma. That made every argument and reconciliation feel real.

The author’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making this a great pick for both casual readers and more analytical ones. As an educator, I’d recommend this book for discussions about trust, vulnerability, and chosen family. It’s a romance that respects its readers.

[Roxanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me in the best possible way. Ginger Rayz does an amazing job balancing romance, family, and suspense. The heroine felt real and relatable, and her dedication to her daughter made me root for her instantly. Watching Colton slowly open up and step into a protective role was incredibly satisfying. This is a book I would confidently recommend to fellow romance lovers who enjoy emotional stories with strong characters.

[Emma Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a single mom myself, this story felt incredibly personal and validating. The heroine isn’t portrayed as weak or desperate-she’s resilient, loving, and determined to protect her child at all costs. The way Colton slowly earns both her trust and her daughter’s affection felt genuine and earned. This book beautifully captures the courage it takes to love again when you have more than just your own heart at stake. A truly touching and exciting read.

[Sophia Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ginger Rayz nails the small-town Texas ranch atmosphere. From gossip-filled whispers to starry nights on the ranch, the setting feels alive and immersive. The chemistry between the main characters builds naturally, and the emotional payoff is well worth the slow burn. Add in suspense, danger, and a protective cowboy billionaire? Absolute perfection. I’ll be recommending this to all my romance-loving friends.

[Natalie Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a writer’s standpoint, this novel is exceptionally well-paced. The character development is strong, the dialogue feels authentic, and the emotional arcs are clearly defined. I especially appreciated how the author wove romance and suspense together without one overpowering the other. Colton’s transformation from emotionally distant to fiercely devoted was handled with care and realism. Ginger Rayz shows impressive control over tone and tension.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who devours contemporary romance, this book completely swept me away. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Colton and the single mom heroine is perfectly paced, filled with sharp dialogue and emotional depth. Ginger Rayz masterfully blends small-town charm, high-stakes drama, and slow-burn romance. If you love grumpy heroes with hidden hearts and strong heroines who put family first, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.

[DanielReed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up as a way to unwind and didn’t expect to become so emotionally invested. The characters felt like people I could actually know, and their struggles resonated more than I anticipated. The story balances romance with suspense in a way that kept me engaged the entire time. It’s not just about falling in love, it’s about trust, healing, and stepping into something terrifying because it matters. I’d recommend this to students who want an escape that still feels meaningful.