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Grumpy Contractor Next Door: A Sweet, Small Town, Fresh Start Romance

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I came to Willow Harbor for a fresh start—not to fall for the gruff, quietly irresistible contractor next door.
This town was supposed to be my reset. New house. New job. No risks.
Then there’s Jack—steady hands, watchful eyes, always fixing what’s broken…including parts of me I thought were beyond repair.
What starts as shared mornings turns into stolen glances, lingering touches, and a pull I can’t ignore. Maybe starting over doesn’t mean doing it without love.
Then I find his name on old paperwork.
Jack signed the safety certification that pushed my biggest project forward—right before it collapsed and destroyed my career. I never knew his face back then. Only his signature.
Now it belongs to the man I’m falling for.
Loving him means reopening scars I barely survived.
Trusting him could cost me everything I’ve worked to rebuild.
If I let him into my life, I could lose the fresh start I fought for and watch my heart shatter yet again.
Either way, this fresh start is about to get complicated.

285 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2026

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9 people want to read

About the author

Josie Frost

28 books27 followers

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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
218 reviews5 followers
February 10, 2026
This story drew me in from the beginning and kept me reading to find out what was going to happen next. It was filled with mystery and mystique. Lily arrives in Willow Harbor and is met by the stinging wind coming in off the harbor. She looks up to see the Harbor House Inn which makes her forget about her resignation email, pain of being humiliated as she left her last job. The Harbor House has three stories. “A wraparound porch that feels less like architecture and more like a promise.” Lily immediately associates it with being someone’s home and not an inn. The first person she meets is Jack, although the meeting doesn’t feel welcoming at all. Jack does tell her where she can find the keys. Lily is surprised by the trust, since that is what she lost on her job. She’s greeted by Bridget and Clyde, two adorable dachshunds who immediately take to her. Maggie, the owner, is there to meet her as well. Lily spends time checking out the inn and making a mental list of what needs to be done. She walks around the inn adding things to her list.
Now, the Harbor House Inn isn’t like any hotel or inn you have ever visited. Maggie explains that people come for a variety of reasons; “weddings, reunions, sick parents, lost jobs, or because they just need somewhere to and for a while.” There is a command center with listings of bake sales, hockey schedules, to everything that is happening in Willow Harbor. People drop by all the time for a visit, to check the command center, or just to see what’s needed.
Lily isn’t sure how she feels about this. She’s timid and shy since the big project blew up. Lily has no confidence in herself or her ability to do a job well.
All these feelings Lily has are due to her previous job. Lily was responsible for “big projects, development, construction, conversion work.” Work was all she knew. Her workdays were twelve hours long and she worked seventy hours each week. She was just about burnt out but she kept pushing on hoping the end of the job was near. The problem wasn’t something she’d missed. “The contamination was buried so deep it didn’t show up in any of the surveys. Everything was done by the book.” The hours she put in and all the time she spent checking and rechecking things didn’t matter. “The project shut down. Millions lost. Years of work gone.” She took the blame. Lily had lost herself and couldn’t remember “how to be the person I was before.” Jack listens to her explanation and remains silent for a long time. He doesn’t rush in and try to tell her what she could have done or even if she was responsible. Instead, “he just looks at me, quiet and honest. ‘You did your job.’ “Four words.” Those four words changed how Lily thought about herself and what had happened with that project.
I do not want to give too much away in this story. Just trust me when I say you will be drawn to these characters, the inn, and the town. Will Lily remain in Willow Harbor? Will she agree to work at Harbor House? Can Lily come to terms with the job that almost broke her? Is there some secret in Willow Harbor that she doesn’t know about? Are the people just good people? To find out the answers to these questions and more, get your copy of Grumpy Contractor Next Door by Josie Frost today!
Profile Image for Gina Blades.
281 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2026
3⭐️ 0🌶️ ARC REVIEW: GRUMPY CONTRACTOR NEXT DOOR by Josie Frost

This is a sweet, cute, closed-door romance set in a charming small town.

Lily Harper left the city for Willow Harbor after a stressful end to her corporate job. She’s looking for a fresh start - a good place to land. She takes a job running the town inn owned by Maggie, a lovely woman that seems so wise and warm and welcoming, like a mom or grandma, and her funny dachshunds, Bridget & Clyde. She meets Jack, who’s always at the inn fixing things. He’s not really grumpy - more like serious, thoughtful, quiet. I thought there would be some tension between them or banter, chemistry, something but they don’t even really go on a date. She’s there 3 days, then it’s 4 months later, so I was left wondering what happened in between.

I enjoyed the beginning of the book but the end left me wanting more. The storyline was interesting but it seemed surface-level. I appreciated the short, easy-reading nature but I would have liked more depth. There wasn’t much of a conflict, and when a slight conflict finally came up, it wasn’t resolved - almost like it didn’t happen. Jack drives to the city determined to make up for a past mistake, then it’s never discussed. He doesn’t come back and apologize or show her what he found - the story just carries on like nothing happened. It felt incomplete. A few pages and chapters also were repeated, so maybe a re-edit would fix the issues.

❤️ 2 cute dachshunds 🐶
❤️ Set at an inn

Favorite quotes:
‘Broken things are easier than people.’

‘It's all... ordinary. And somehow that makes it extraordinary.’

"You don't have to disappear to be useful. You're allowed to take up space."

‘I used to think if I just proved myself enough, someone might finally stay.’

"This is my future. And you're in it."

Love chosen. Home found.

Read this if you like:
*Small town romance
*Closed door - no spice
*HEA

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lindsey Adams.
1,215 reviews24 followers
February 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️

A sweet, closed door romance that focuses on the quiet souls finding their place. Josie Foster has written an amazing book in Grumpy Contractor Next Door. Both MCs are quiet and stay to themselves, but feel deep and can’t help the attraction that is brewing between the two of them. Josie has always provided amazing character development, but in this story she makes an inanimate object as much a character as the people.

Lily is wanting to start over. After resigning from her job and the humiliation that follows, she is ready for a clean slate in a place no one knows her. When she arrives in Willow Harbor, she is immediately less weary and even excited for the possibilities. She is quiet, but observant, seeing more about the town than most do. I loved getting to know this place through her quiet resolve.

Jack is a town local, helps out where he can, and is also quiet. When he and Lily meet it isn’t instant sparks, but a quiet attraction that takes root. Jack is described as grumpy, but he really isn’t. He just doesn’t talk a lot, truly listens, and is a good neighbor. As he gets to know Lily he offers her a safe place to vent and run ideas by. He doesn't know it yet, but he is helping build Lily’s self esteem back up. He makes her feel seen like never before.

I always love a good finding yourself story, but add on a romance, you have perfection. Josie truly blends these two ingredients together to give us Lily and Jack’s romance. Both are quiet anchors for the others, understanding each other in a way only introverts can. Yet they do push each other to step outside their comfort zones and to trust themselves. Another wonderful, easy to read, and even easier to escape in romance by Josie!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
💗Next Door Neighbors
🌊Small Town Romance
💗Introverted MCs
🌊Closed Door Romance
545 reviews21 followers
February 10, 2026
Jack is not what I'd call grumpy at all. This is a novel about introverts who still see themselves in extroverts' terms. "Grumpy" is used to mean quiet, serious, and responsible--which is probably why "grumpy" characters have become such a popular "hook" in romance novels. Jack is pleasant enough with his clients; he's quiet with Lily because he's attracted to her and doesn't think she wants to stay in the small town he's decided to make his home.

Lily is a little closer to being grumpy: fresh from disgrace in her former career, she just wants to fade into the background. Of course she likes Jack--this is a romance. As the story unfolds, they discover that they left the same place for reasons that interconnected.

The characters are lovable. The plot starts with an unlikely premise but goes on from there in a reasonably believable way. If you like quiet, serious, responsible couples, this romance is for you.
Profile Image for Book Addict.
839 reviews7 followers
February 13, 2026
Grumpy Contractor Next Door is one of those books that I didn’t mind reading, but I also didn’t exactly sprint through it. The premise is cute enough—grumpy contractor, new neighbour, lots of proximity and banter—but it never fully clicked for me.

Jack is indeed grumpy, though sometimes it felt less like “endearing curmudgeon” and more like “sir, please take a nap.” Lily is sweet but she carries the emotional weight of the story. The chemistry has its moments occasionally, especially in the quieter scenes, but the pacing wobbles.

I did enjoy the small‑town vibes and the subplot, even if the construction details were… about an inn.

Overall, it’s a pleasant enough read if you like grumpy/sunshine. Not one of my favourite Josie Frost story's, not a regret. Just a solid “yeah, that was okay.”.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Katie.
925 reviews4 followers
February 10, 2026
This story is mostly told through Lily and Jack’s thoughts, all their insecurities and worries. Jack was a fixture, and the town “fixer”, and seemed to be everywhere he was needed, but still seemed to keep himself separate. Lily was so afraid to reach out, that if she started to settle in SOMETHING would happen and she’d have to run, so she had one foot out the door and her bag half packed before she even moved in. But the town just surrounds her with acceptance and welcomes her until eventually she realizes she’s not looking to run anymore. She’s home. She and Jack are beginning to create an “us” but suddenly a past event threatens all they were building. But they both choose to stay and work on rebuilding their trust and their love. Very sweet and low key.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
348 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2026
A sweet romance. She is there for a new job and place. But he her bags are half pack if she wants to move again.
Jack is the grumpy contractor that fixes things around town and there, so she feels seen. He does not want to fix her and gives her space. There are lingering looks and touches. There is a possibility for love.
Then she comes across her papers on her failed job and sees his signature on approval to build then his signature on a paper stating the soil is contaminated. That last paper caused her to be fired. Will that destroy their blooming romance or will they be able to rebuild?
He goes to the city for the truth. Will he find something that helps?
Love can be without grand gestures and fireworks.
I love this town with friendly faces and gathers you in.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for C.Y..
171 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 2, 2026
Set in the charming town of Willow Harbor, this heartwarming romance tells the story of a woman seeking a fresh start—and unexpectedly finding love. The story shines through the slow, tender development between her and Jack, the gruff yet kind contractor next door. Jack’s quiet warmth, steady presence, and thoughtful gestures make him instantly likable, while her journey to trust and open her heart feels both relatable and moving. This book beautifully captures the magic of small-town life, the comfort of connection, and the courage it takes to let love in. A sweet, cozy read that leaves you believing in second chances and new beginnings.

I was given an advanced copy of this book for free and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sheri Bolinger.
461 reviews2 followers
February 13, 2026
I just loved this book. There wasn't anything flashy or overly dramatic in it. It was warm and steady. Lily and Jack were perfect for each other. Lily comes to town to be the Inn manager for Maggie, who is amazing!! She believes she is there to escape and drift into the background. The town has other opinions! Jack is calm, steady and seemingly Grumpy. Really he is just afraid. These two have a way of saying things to each other that resonates and is real. Nothing false, just steady. As comfort begins to take hold, something happens that threatens it all. Can they hold onto the fragile truth they've been building? I loved the tense moments, the quiet ones that crept in, and the steady ones that can sometimes be the hardest to let yourself want. This was a beautiful story!
Profile Image for Johanna.
2,774 reviews49 followers
February 11, 2026
'Trusting him could cost me everything I’ve worked to rebuild.
If I let him into my life, I could lose the fresh start I fought for and watch my heart shatter yet again.
Either way, this fresh start is about to get complicated.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
137 reviews3 followers
February 27, 2026
Lilly moves to Willow Harbor to escape her past, she figures she will only stay for a little while before moving to somewhere else. What she didn’t expect was the town to treat her as one of their own. From her first day there, everyone is extremely friendly. Jack is always there to fix something when she needs it (or before she even knows something needs fixing).
I have read more small town romances than I can count and this is one of the first books I have read where I could feel the smallness of the town, the slowness, and also the care they have for one another.

I received a free copy via Brooksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
119 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
February 1, 2026
I enjoyed the beginning of the book more than the end. The story line was interesting, I just wish it would have gone deeper, it's more surface level easy reading. I would have enjoyed more depth on the conflict. Jack drives to the city determine to do all he can to right past wrongs, and next thing you know his back in Willow Harbor and the trip to town is never mentioned again almost like it never happened, it just felt incomplete and unresolved.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda Marlowe.
2,509 reviews25 followers
February 10, 2026
Lily has got a job at Harbor House Inn in Willow Harbor, she needs this to get her self confidence back. Jack is a handyman and not at all grumpy, for the whole town, he sees what needs doing and does it, he's also the ice skating coach.
Lily isn't used to so many people being interested in her, she finds it very difficult.
Gradually the town pulls her in, then she finds out some information that could break her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

An interesting read from Josie
182 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2026
This is a second chance book, Lily moves to a small town to get away from her previous like, half wanting to panic and the other half just want to survive. Jack is a quiet steady man and know the right things to say to Lily, they start to have feelings for one another till Lily realizes that they have a previous path.
I love the book, looking for something not know what till it hits you. Supporting characters are there to help each other out a magical place and let's not forget Bridget and Clyde.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,172 reviews27 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 10, 2026
“Grumpy Contractor Next Door” by Josie Frost

-A sweet small-town romance where Lily starts fresh and finds unexpected love with Jack, her gruff but caring neighbor. The slow-burn connection and tender moments make their journey heartwarming. The story is cozy, emotional, and delivers a satisfying happy ending. A nice and clean, feel-good romance. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest impressions.
Profile Image for Gail.
16 reviews2 followers
February 13, 2026
A Surprise Story

Two lost people meet in a lovely village where people seem to end up when they are missing something in their lives, or haven't been able to get past previous devastating occurrences. It's a very tender romance, with lessons for all of us. A MUCH better story than what you would expect. Give this one -- you send glad you did! I look forward to reading more by this author!
1,448 reviews8 followers
February 25, 2026
Surprises While Staying

Jack doesn't want to be anywhere else. Lily came to reset her life and then move on. Both have dark periods in their past that could totally disrupt their present. The town draws Lily in, but she's not totally on board yet. I love the characters in the town and Hack's steadiness. He's a man of few words, but that works with Lily. It's an interesting relationship that progresses slowly with some surprising developments but ends happily.
Profile Image for Debra Soehner.
1,293 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 5, 2026
A falling in love story with Lily and Jack. She wants to start a new life and job after failing at her last career and he is the handyman there, but is he really just that? Did he orchestrate her downfall. Great novel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for J.
4,184 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy
February 7, 2026
A well written, sweet/clean romance read. A sweet, small town, grumpy next door, start a fresh romance read with our main characters Lily and Jack. I love that these two find each other and overcome their obstacles to be together. A delightfully sweet and emotional romance that is sure to please!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Teresa.
485 reviews12 followers
February 11, 2026
Jack and Lily are super cute. I love how they get together. I also love how Jack tried to right his wrong a long time ago, but then when he finds out that it hurt Lily, he tries again, even harder. He knows that he lost her trust and must earn it back.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,300 reviews38 followers
February 11, 2026
A story about starting over, a fresh start and trusting in yourself and others in this sweet and charming small town romance. It's a hopeful and inspiring story that draws you in with heartwarming characters. The wonderful descriptive writing gives you a front row seat to it all. A very entertaining and cozy read.

192 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2026
This is a small town romance that feels like coming home. The town welcomes Lily and they see her and it scares her. Jack is a constant, then they realize they have to deal with things from their past. Lily finds a place to call home with Jack and the town. Loved it! I received an advance copy for my honest review.
195 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2026
This sweet story showed two people who overcame fear and chose to stay even in the hard times. Willow Harbor is a charming small town that doesn’t know a stranger no matter how new someone may be. Jack and Lily complement each other well and know how to support the other perfectly.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tami Willard.
2,498 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy
January 30, 2026
Can be read as a standalone.
She's trying to recover from her life imploding.
A town full of people trying to make her feel welcomed.
He falls first
Unknown connection may undo everything.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
2,705 reviews94 followers
February 12, 2026
I loved this small town, second chance romance. Jack and Lily were so sweet in this. I loved that they cared enough to overcome what was holding them back so they could move forward. Just super sweet.
Profile Image for Hannah.
127 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 3, 2026
I can always count on Josie to deliver the perfect small town HEA. Jack and Lily were amazing and overcame the odds between them.
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