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Grand Valley #1
A Fair Warning
A "former bully", love/hate, dark comedy romance about politically incorrect rough small-town characters.
Poppy
All I wanted was to throw a little bag of dog poop at my ex's door to release my divorce demons. Is that too much to ask? Just my luck Deputy Hillbilly Upchuck Duke catches me in the act. That creep's been on me like germs on a buffet since we were kids. I have a bar to run, a beer garden to build, and moron cousins and patrons to wrangle. I don't have time to be stalked by this idiot. If he thinks showing back up in Grand Valley with a star on his inbred chest, sans mullet, will make me forget the hell he put me through, he's dumber than he was when he left Illinois.
Chuck
Poppy Prince hates my guts. Always has. It's cute she thinks those nicknames bother me, almost as cute as how clueless she still is about her sex appeal. It takes a special kind of man to put up with her crap. I'm going to show her once and for all that no one's as special as me.
*Trigger This book contains adult language, explicit consensual sexual content, politically incorrect terminology and dark humor meant to capture the demographic of rough small towns that still exist today.
Poppy
All I wanted was to throw a little bag of dog poop at my ex's door to release my divorce demons. Is that too much to ask? Just my luck Deputy Hillbilly Upchuck Duke catches me in the act. That creep's been on me like germs on a buffet since we were kids. I have a bar to run, a beer garden to build, and moron cousins and patrons to wrangle. I don't have time to be stalked by this idiot. If he thinks showing back up in Grand Valley with a star on his inbred chest, sans mullet, will make me forget the hell he put me through, he's dumber than he was when he left Illinois.
Chuck
Poppy Prince hates my guts. Always has. It's cute she thinks those nicknames bother me, almost as cute as how clueless she still is about her sex appeal. It takes a special kind of man to put up with her crap. I'm going to show her once and for all that no one's as special as me.
*Trigger This book contains adult language, explicit consensual sexual content, politically incorrect terminology and dark humor meant to capture the demographic of rough small towns that still exist today.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2022
11 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Dianna Roman
16 books722 followersRomcom author, Dianna Roman, believes in laughter, unsung heroes and heroines, chocolate, talking to yourself, hard work, and above all, love.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
December 7, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Wild One Press for this arc.
A Fair Warning presents as a typical romcom, which it was. But I felt it was trying too hard when I read it.
Poppy and Chuck both read like middle schoolers with their constant obsessing over each other. I just spent too much time in their heads and kept wishing for the story to get to some point. I found Poppy particularly irritating with her immaturity. To be fair, Chuck kept feeding into it (imagine proposing marriage in front of your former high school principal!). I thought these characters were in their mid to late 20s. Also, I thought some of Poppy's friends, family, bar customers and her "peeps" kept crossing the line between teasing and just plain meaness.
The story was okay, the romance was over-the-top for me, and I just didn't like the characters.
2.0 stars
A Fair Warning presents as a typical romcom, which it was. But I felt it was trying too hard when I read it.
Poppy and Chuck both read like middle schoolers with their constant obsessing over each other. I just spent too much time in their heads and kept wishing for the story to get to some point. I found Poppy particularly irritating with her immaturity. To be fair, Chuck kept feeding into it (imagine proposing marriage in front of your former high school principal!). I thought these characters were in their mid to late 20s. Also, I thought some of Poppy's friends, family, bar customers and her "peeps" kept crossing the line between teasing and just plain meaness.
The story was okay, the romance was over-the-top for me, and I just didn't like the characters.
2.0 stars
February 5, 2022
Completely hilarious. From enemies to lover's this couple had me laughing throughout the book. Charlie and Poppy, she is a bar owner and he is a deputy sheriff but they met in school and always seemed to have a hate relationship, only he was hiding his true feelings of how much he wanted Poppy. Go on a journey with them that really has you laughing at the antics they both pull and meet Poppy's relative,s that work at the bar with her.
November 30, 2021
I could not put this story down! Call me a sucker, but I love a good love/hate relationship - that tension of whether or not they’re going to kiss or shout is so delicious when it’s done right… and it’s balanced perfectly in this story.
“A Fair Warning” is a small town contemporary romance between Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke. Two 20-somethings with a lifetime of history… mischievous, sarcastic, teen-lovey, dramatic history! But can the flame that almost caught that one special night at Miller’s Lake be ignited again between them? Or is there too much scar tissue and time between them now?
Poppy has had a rough year. She lost her father, took over her family’s bar, and has just finalized her divorce following a short marriage to a cheating d!ck.
Charlie has spent a decade trying to earn enough to keep his mom in their family home while repaying his long-gone dad’s debts. He returns to Grand Valley to care for his mother in her final months; and sets his mind on rebuilding his home and making a life with his girl… if only she’d stop busting his chops every chance she got.
What I liked about this story is that both characters had their flaws, but they were believable and relatable. I also really liked that miscommunication between Charlie and Poppy is dealt with like the adults they’re supposed to be. I know, I get it, miscommunications are key to plot drivers in romance stories but it’s so often whiny or immature… this version just felt different in a refreshing way.
What I loved about this story is the stroll down memory lane. I’m a small town girl, I had that tomboy look, and I don’t think I ever understood if/when guys showed interest in me. I also *may have had* a few moonlit camping nights or midnight kisses by the lake. 😘. And I may truly know a small town cop named Chuck, and he could very well be the basis for the Charlie character *lol*!
I will absolutely return to Grand Valley if/when new stories come out! Too cute to pass up!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
“A Fair Warning” is a small town contemporary romance between Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke. Two 20-somethings with a lifetime of history… mischievous, sarcastic, teen-lovey, dramatic history! But can the flame that almost caught that one special night at Miller’s Lake be ignited again between them? Or is there too much scar tissue and time between them now?
Poppy has had a rough year. She lost her father, took over her family’s bar, and has just finalized her divorce following a short marriage to a cheating d!ck.
Charlie has spent a decade trying to earn enough to keep his mom in their family home while repaying his long-gone dad’s debts. He returns to Grand Valley to care for his mother in her final months; and sets his mind on rebuilding his home and making a life with his girl… if only she’d stop busting his chops every chance she got.
What I liked about this story is that both characters had their flaws, but they were believable and relatable. I also really liked that miscommunication between Charlie and Poppy is dealt with like the adults they’re supposed to be. I know, I get it, miscommunications are key to plot drivers in romance stories but it’s so often whiny or immature… this version just felt different in a refreshing way.
What I loved about this story is the stroll down memory lane. I’m a small town girl, I had that tomboy look, and I don’t think I ever understood if/when guys showed interest in me. I also *may have had* a few moonlit camping nights or midnight kisses by the lake. 😘. And I may truly know a small town cop named Chuck, and he could very well be the basis for the Charlie character *lol*!
I will absolutely return to Grand Valley if/when new stories come out! Too cute to pass up!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2021
okay.. this was bad
the mc had so much internalized misogyny.. i rlly couldn't stand her god bless :
- so her ex husband cheated on her w another woman.. and while she calls her ex husband an asshole the woman is the whore the skank the bitch the slut etc.. like for some reason she put most of the blame on the woman ?? ..
- there was a moment where the love interest was with 3 ow (just talking). then, the mc in her head literally said she 'respected more the woman that was showing less skin'.. how is this okay 😶😶
- the mc thinks one of her problems is her lack of femininity.. but then insults and looks down on any women that embraces those feminine traits 🤨🤨 yh..
- despite this, she tells herself that she likes herself that way and won't change for anyone.. but what does she do next ? obviously, change her appearance for the love interest. okay..
it literally had absolutely no plot and the love interest was giving very much creep since the very start..
(got this through netgalley)
the mc had so much internalized misogyny.. i rlly couldn't stand her god bless :
- so her ex husband cheated on her w another woman.. and while she calls her ex husband an asshole the woman is the whore the skank the bitch the slut etc.. like for some reason she put most of the blame on the woman ?? ..
- there was a moment where the love interest was with 3 ow (just talking). then, the mc in her head literally said she 'respected more the woman that was showing less skin'.. how is this okay 😶😶
- the mc thinks one of her problems is her lack of femininity.. but then insults and looks down on any women that embraces those feminine traits 🤨🤨 yh..
- despite this, she tells herself that she likes herself that way and won't change for anyone.. but what does she do next ? obviously, change her appearance for the love interest. okay..
it literally had absolutely no plot and the love interest was giving very much creep since the very start..
(got this through netgalley)
March 6, 2022
This fun and endearing romance will stay with readers long after they’ve finished reading it.
Read full review in the 2022 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 3, 2022
I like an occasional rom-com book but this one was not for me. It had the usual key components: Enemies to lovers trope, small town vibes, sexual tensions, and a quick read. Unfortunately there were also elements in the book that I found unnecessary.
The male love interest was a tad possessive with predatory-like behavior. The female character with her constant derogatory remarks makes it difficult to empathize with her. She thinks her excuse for her bad attitude and maybe the lack of attention was because she wasn’t deemed pretty.
There was a very good amount of teasing between multiple characters especially between the cousins. In one chapter, it became too excessive that it’s basically bullying and was lengthy. I did not find anything humorous about it. I especially did not appreciate mocking someone who stuttered. The romance did have its sweet moments but that’s it.
A fair warning: vomit, bullying, foul language.
The male love interest was a tad possessive with predatory-like behavior. The female character with her constant derogatory remarks makes it difficult to empathize with her. She thinks her excuse for her bad attitude and maybe the lack of attention was because she wasn’t deemed pretty.
There was a very good amount of teasing between multiple characters especially between the cousins. In one chapter, it became too excessive that it’s basically bullying and was lengthy. I did not find anything humorous about it. I especially did not appreciate mocking someone who stuttered. The romance did have its sweet moments but that’s it.
A fair warning: vomit, bullying, foul language.
November 29, 2021
i'll start off by saying i'm NOT a romance reader. i really try to avoid most books that are in the romance genre, unless it's all over the internet, then i'll eventually succumb to the peer pressure. this is mostly because these romance novels out there are badly written unrealistic over the top piles of trash.
this little ditty isn't any of that. i think i read this at just the right time. ive been immersed in thrillers, mysteries, and horror. so this was just the load of cuteness i needed. i loved this couple, maybe because they reminded me of how my own marriage started out. but they are damn cute nonetheless.
sometimes we just need a lighthearted spicy rom com to make our hearts go squeeeee. and this book does just that.
extra kudos: this author uses metaphors that just cracked me up!
thanks to netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
this little ditty isn't any of that. i think i read this at just the right time. ive been immersed in thrillers, mysteries, and horror. so this was just the load of cuteness i needed. i loved this couple, maybe because they reminded me of how my own marriage started out. but they are damn cute nonetheless.
sometimes we just need a lighthearted spicy rom com to make our hearts go squeeeee. and this book does just that.
extra kudos: this author uses metaphors that just cracked me up!
thanks to netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 26, 2021
This isn’t your typical RomCom, but it is relatable; especially if you grew up in a small town, where everyone knows everyone and you can’t sneeze without the old lady three houses down texting her knitting group that you have pneumonia. (If you know, you know) Complete with this totally awesome possum whose there for like 5 seconds but his role is so funny it made a couple of us name him Bob 🤣
At first, I wasn’t too sure about Poppy. She’s moodier than I typically like my heroines to be, but she quickly grows on you. Her sass is all a facade to cover up her insecurities. While she embraces the fact that she’s a self proclaimed tomboy, it does hurt her the way people sometimes treat her as though she’s only just one of the guys and not a woman worthy of romancing. This insecurity, which she loathes btw, traces back to one Chuck Duke. I won’t spoil their history, but I do want to say it is something most of us can relate to.
Deputy Chuck Duke is the epitome of what a book boyfriend should be. He has this boy next door charm, if the boy next door grew up with a pack rat father and a mullet. (Don’t worry, Chuck has cleaned up the family farm and ditched his party in the back.) Most of the town know he’s not the same punk kid who lived in squalor next to the river. There is one hold out, who refuses to admit he’s grown up (and boy did he grow up) and that’s Poppy.
The way these two spar is a combination of frustration and comedy. You spend time wanting to smack Poppy upside the head for her childlike stubbornness when it comes to Chuck. Once she lets go of what she thinks the past was like, these two enemies quickly become lovers.
On a serious note: the author addresses some very real issues. Self-doubt, even when you’re comfortable with yourself, is something a lot of us face. Stereotypes based on where we grew up, something else most of us can relate to. Crazy relatives that we banter with and the rest of the world thinks your family must have lost their minds. I love that these things are included and that the characters aren’t perfect. I’ll definitely be reading more Dianna Roman books.
At first, I wasn’t too sure about Poppy. She’s moodier than I typically like my heroines to be, but she quickly grows on you. Her sass is all a facade to cover up her insecurities. While she embraces the fact that she’s a self proclaimed tomboy, it does hurt her the way people sometimes treat her as though she’s only just one of the guys and not a woman worthy of romancing. This insecurity, which she loathes btw, traces back to one Chuck Duke. I won’t spoil their history, but I do want to say it is something most of us can relate to.
Deputy Chuck Duke is the epitome of what a book boyfriend should be. He has this boy next door charm, if the boy next door grew up with a pack rat father and a mullet. (Don’t worry, Chuck has cleaned up the family farm and ditched his party in the back.) Most of the town know he’s not the same punk kid who lived in squalor next to the river. There is one hold out, who refuses to admit he’s grown up (and boy did he grow up) and that’s Poppy.
The way these two spar is a combination of frustration and comedy. You spend time wanting to smack Poppy upside the head for her childlike stubbornness when it comes to Chuck. Once she lets go of what she thinks the past was like, these two enemies quickly become lovers.
On a serious note: the author addresses some very real issues. Self-doubt, even when you’re comfortable with yourself, is something a lot of us face. Stereotypes based on where we grew up, something else most of us can relate to. Crazy relatives that we banter with and the rest of the world thinks your family must have lost their minds. I love that these things are included and that the characters aren’t perfect. I’ll definitely be reading more Dianna Roman books.
January 11, 2022
Full review: Click here!
Thank you Netgalley and publishers for this e-ARC!
A light-hearted enemies-to-lovers small-town romance. The main characters in this book are utterly devoted to each other and if you haven’t found your other shoe, you might be tempted to… get one. Xx
Thank you Netgalley and publishers for this e-ARC!
A light-hearted enemies-to-lovers small-town romance. The main characters in this book are utterly devoted to each other and if you haven’t found your other shoe, you might be tempted to… get one. Xx
December 6, 2021
This book was a miss for me. Poppy and Charlie (Chuck) are childhood enemies (because for some reason teasing and joking around as a tween makes you mortal enemies that you're still upset about into your late twenties?) Poppy doesn't like Charlie when they are growing up because he lives in the poorer section outside of town. She frequently calls his names like "Hillbilly" and disparages his home life. Whereas, Charlie has loved Poppy his whole life. He was teasing her as a way to get noticed. Flash forward to adulthood, Poppy is just getting out of a divorce to her ex who cheated on her. She runs the local bar and lives at home with her mother. Charlie arrived in town after being absent from his hometown his entire adult life. He's also the new deputy in town. Charlie tries to prove to Poppy that they should quit the constant fighting and start dating.
Poppy was so irritating to me. She comes off as immature and judgmental. My husband and I have been together since we were teens. We have always had a very jokey and teasing relationship. I can't see myself holding something against him that he said as a fifteen year old. Poppy makes comments about how her ex's new girlfriend is slutty for dressing girly. And then gets upset that Charlie doesn't think she is "feminine" enough (even though he never says that.) She has her sister give her a "girly" makeover to get is attention. It's just so ridiculous.
I actually liked Charlie for the most part. He tried to be sweet and attentive. Getting his point of view and seeing how much he had liked her since childhood was adorable... until the author kept repeatedly referring to him as a stalker once they were together. That's not a "funny or witty" thing to say especially since his job is in law enforcement. Charlie's internal misogynistic dialogue would comment about how being emotional made him a girl.
I started this book thinking it it would be a cute and funny enemies to lovers since other reviews really loved it. Some scenes I did like; the opossum scene in the beginning had me laughing out loud. Unfortunately, a lot of character and plot issues fundamentally didn't work. Dianna Roman already has two entire series planned out for this small town but they will be a skip for me.
Tropes include: small town romance, enemies to lovers, pining, second chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wild One Press for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
Poppy was so irritating to me. She comes off as immature and judgmental. My husband and I have been together since we were teens. We have always had a very jokey and teasing relationship. I can't see myself holding something against him that he said as a fifteen year old. Poppy makes comments about how her ex's new girlfriend is slutty for dressing girly. And then gets upset that Charlie doesn't think she is "feminine" enough (even though he never says that.) She has her sister give her a "girly" makeover to get is attention. It's just so ridiculous.
I actually liked Charlie for the most part. He tried to be sweet and attentive. Getting his point of view and seeing how much he had liked her since childhood was adorable... until the author kept repeatedly referring to him as a stalker once they were together. That's not a "funny or witty" thing to say especially since his job is in law enforcement. Charlie's internal misogynistic dialogue would comment about how being emotional made him a girl.
I started this book thinking it it would be a cute and funny enemies to lovers since other reviews really loved it. Some scenes I did like; the opossum scene in the beginning had me laughing out loud. Unfortunately, a lot of character and plot issues fundamentally didn't work. Dianna Roman already has two entire series planned out for this small town but they will be a skip for me.
Tropes include: small town romance, enemies to lovers, pining, second chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wild One Press for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 20, 2021
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Wild One Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oof.
Poppy is misogynistic as HECK.
Chuck Duke is the worst character name probably ever.
"Elexa play anything from Olivia Rodrigo." because this MC is wildly immature.
This story is what all romance novels would be if we skipped all the buildup and anticipation. Which imo is what makes romance so enjoyable. The anxiety. The longing for them to JUST GET ON WITH IT!!! Right???
Well, this was over eager and completely skipped the foreplay. 🚩
Cringe.
I had to double check that it wasn't written by a man.
😬
Oof.
Poppy is misogynistic as HECK.
Chuck Duke is the worst character name probably ever.
"Elexa play anything from Olivia Rodrigo." because this MC is wildly immature.
This story is what all romance novels would be if we skipped all the buildup and anticipation. Which imo is what makes romance so enjoyable. The anxiety. The longing for them to JUST GET ON WITH IT!!! Right???
Well, this was over eager and completely skipped the foreplay. 🚩
Cringe.
I had to double check that it wasn't written by a man.
😬
January 22, 2022
DNF
I’m sure this story will be great for some people but I only got 5% before I had to stop. I don’t have the mental energy to force myself to read something I’m not enjoying at all. Chuck’s internal monologue really turned me off but so did Poppy’s. I come from a small town full of hillbillies (as the author says) and I think the way they both speak and react to the world just reminded me too much of people I know that I’d rather not think of.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
I’m sure this story will be great for some people but I only got 5% before I had to stop. I don’t have the mental energy to force myself to read something I’m not enjoying at all. Chuck’s internal monologue really turned me off but so did Poppy’s. I come from a small town full of hillbillies (as the author says) and I think the way they both speak and react to the world just reminded me too much of people I know that I’d rather not think of.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
January 2, 2022
This was a DNF for me. The author laid bare all of the juicy stuff from the first chapter which didn't hold my interest. I want to work for my story and the intentions of the characters. Make me work for the information--grab my attention, make me care! This was just too much too soon for my tastes. Thanks for the opportunity Netgalley.
March 18, 2022
0.5
No. This was horrible... not bad but horrible.
No. This was horrible... not bad but horrible.
December 5, 2021
I stumbled across this book in one of my GR reader groups and picked it up on a whim. I am glad I did, because its a very cute book with a lot of heart.
A Fair Warning is the tale of Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke, enemies-turned-lovers. Charlie has been in love with Poppy since they were kids, but in stereotypical boy fashion, he was a d*ck about it. Poppy, the eternal tomboy, has had a rough couple of years: loss of her brother, loss of her father, and a divorce from her cheating ex (who got to keep the house by the way!). The last thing she needs is old Charlie Duke hanging around throwing dig after dig at her like he did in high school. Fortunately for Poppy and the reader, Charlie Duke is a fantastic man who will go to any means to protect and love Poppy. Hello, new book boyfriend!
What I liked about this book:
1. The writing. This book has a bit of everything, but mainly focuses on the romantic comedy side of things. I love the banter between our two MCs, who definitely have major chemistry. The writing flows well and is descriptive. Some of the fight scenes in the book I could easily picture because the author did a great job of laying out move for move what happened, as opposed to most scenes like this in non-fantasy books where it is kind of just glossed over.
2. The characters. They are quirky, yet grounded. I love that they are older (27) and have been through enough sh*t in their lives already to be able to bypass a lot of the arguments younger folks have. Granted, there was a lot of drama (it is a enemies-to-lovers/second-chance romance after all!), but I felt it was actual drama I would expect from two people their age with their history.
I would like to specifically call out the date Charlie set up for Poppy. It was completely perfect! Like seriously, I want to go on a date with Charlie now...
I also loved all the introspective thoughts. These people definitely have issues and insecurities, and the writer does a good job of outlining the thoughts all us insecure beings would have in the same situation.
3. The situation with the possum? Hello, comedy gold! Such a small part of the overall word count, but such a big step in the love life of Poppy and Charlie. Overall, Diana Roman's writing reminds me of Lucy Score, which is always a compliment.
4. I'm super excited to hear we will be getting a bunch more books in this series! I want them all! I want to hear about Tommy, Garrett, Patti, Tessa, and everyone else! I'll just be waiting over here like
Why I didn't give 5 stars:
1. I felt like there are a bunch of background characters and issues we didn't really get to dive into. For example, her brother dying is mentioned, but is never really dove into the same way her dad's death is. Why is that? Is that a story for another day/book?
2. As much as I love Charlie, I DID NOT GET the whole stalker thing after he's already sealed the deal with Poppy. Like, are you trying to ruin a good thing? And then Poppy's response to this at the end is to tell him to change is attitude and he's just like "Ok"? I'm not buying it...this is not resolved satisfactorily.
4 Stars!
Thank you Dianna Roman for the opportunity to read and review this book!
A Fair Warning is the tale of Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke, enemies-turned-lovers. Charlie has been in love with Poppy since they were kids, but in stereotypical boy fashion, he was a d*ck about it. Poppy, the eternal tomboy, has had a rough couple of years: loss of her brother, loss of her father, and a divorce from her cheating ex (who got to keep the house by the way!). The last thing she needs is old Charlie Duke hanging around throwing dig after dig at her like he did in high school. Fortunately for Poppy and the reader, Charlie Duke is a fantastic man who will go to any means to protect and love Poppy. Hello, new book boyfriend!
What I liked about this book:
1. The writing. This book has a bit of everything, but mainly focuses on the romantic comedy side of things. I love the banter between our two MCs, who definitely have major chemistry. The writing flows well and is descriptive. Some of the fight scenes in the book I could easily picture because the author did a great job of laying out move for move what happened, as opposed to most scenes like this in non-fantasy books where it is kind of just glossed over.
2. The characters. They are quirky, yet grounded. I love that they are older (27) and have been through enough sh*t in their lives already to be able to bypass a lot of the arguments younger folks have. Granted, there was a lot of drama (it is a enemies-to-lovers/second-chance romance after all!), but I felt it was actual drama I would expect from two people their age with their history.
I would like to specifically call out the date Charlie set up for Poppy. It was completely perfect! Like seriously, I want to go on a date with Charlie now...
I also loved all the introspective thoughts. These people definitely have issues and insecurities, and the writer does a good job of outlining the thoughts all us insecure beings would have in the same situation.
3. The situation with the possum? Hello, comedy gold! Such a small part of the overall word count, but such a big step in the love life of Poppy and Charlie. Overall, Diana Roman's writing reminds me of Lucy Score, which is always a compliment.
4. I'm super excited to hear we will be getting a bunch more books in this series! I want them all! I want to hear about Tommy, Garrett, Patti, Tessa, and everyone else! I'll just be waiting over here like
Why I didn't give 5 stars:
1. I felt like there are a bunch of background characters and issues we didn't really get to dive into. For example, her brother dying is mentioned, but is never really dove into the same way her dad's death is. Why is that? Is that a story for another day/book?
2. As much as I love Charlie, I DID NOT GET the whole stalker thing after he's already sealed the deal with Poppy. Like, are you trying to ruin a good thing? And then Poppy's response to this at the end is to tell him to change is attitude and he's just like "Ok"? I'm not buying it...this is not resolved satisfactorily.
4 Stars!
Thank you Dianna Roman for the opportunity to read and review this book!
November 26, 2021
Thanks NetGalley and Wild One Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First off, this cover is ADORABLE!
Male lead with glasses? (I don’t know if he wore glasses in the book) I’m a goner!
& then you add a possum I needed this!
So Poppy is a take no prisoners badass bar owner and hates Chucks guts since they were kids.
Chuck is a wise cracking sheriff deputy and has been in love with Poppy since they were kids.
This gets a 4/5 stars from me!
This was such a fun read; I was immediately drawn into the town of Grand Valley and its residents.
The locations also seemed like characters to me.
The story progression seemed very organic to me; you have two characters that clearly have an attraction for one another, but one can’t act on it because the other refuses to see it. Awe the angst!
Poppy was very brash and yet she had this kindness to her that really sold her character to me.
Plus, she was a badass and we love to see it!
Chuck, oh Chuck he was so in love. I really liked Chuck he had this internal struggle because he has loved her for so long that once things go his way, he second guesses it.
I loved their relationship; the wooing moments and their banter was so cute.
The felt like a team and having two very strong personalities can be difficult to write in a relationship without changing one of the character’s personalities but it was handled so well.
There were moments when this really hit me in the feels. They really hurt each other when they were young and yes it was immature kids’ stuff but I liked that they both apologized and too accountability for it.
I appreciated that I was surprised by the “conflict” of the story.
I’m glad that I didn’t have to read about more miss communication when these characters had that issue throughout their teen years.
The only draw back I saw here was that often the book seemed a little wordy. I wanted more interaction between the characters. I guess that goes to show how well developed they were.
This was my first Dianna Roman book, but it won’t be the last. I can’t wait to read more about these characters and the town. Can't wait to get a physical copy!
First off, this cover is ADORABLE!
Male lead with glasses? (I don’t know if he wore glasses in the book) I’m a goner!
& then you add a possum I needed this!
So Poppy is a take no prisoners badass bar owner and hates Chucks guts since they were kids.
Chuck is a wise cracking sheriff deputy and has been in love with Poppy since they were kids.
This gets a 4/5 stars from me!
This was such a fun read; I was immediately drawn into the town of Grand Valley and its residents.
The locations also seemed like characters to me.
The story progression seemed very organic to me; you have two characters that clearly have an attraction for one another, but one can’t act on it because the other refuses to see it. Awe the angst!
Poppy was very brash and yet she had this kindness to her that really sold her character to me.
Plus, she was a badass and we love to see it!
Chuck, oh Chuck he was so in love. I really liked Chuck he had this internal struggle because he has loved her for so long that once things go his way, he second guesses it.
I loved their relationship; the wooing moments and their banter was so cute.
The felt like a team and having two very strong personalities can be difficult to write in a relationship without changing one of the character’s personalities but it was handled so well.
There were moments when this really hit me in the feels. They really hurt each other when they were young and yes it was immature kids’ stuff but I liked that they both apologized and too accountability for it.
I appreciated that I was surprised by the “conflict” of the story.
I’m glad that I didn’t have to read about more miss communication when these characters had that issue throughout their teen years.
The only draw back I saw here was that often the book seemed a little wordy. I wanted more interaction between the characters. I guess that goes to show how well developed they were.
This was my first Dianna Roman book, but it won’t be the last. I can’t wait to read more about these characters and the town. Can't wait to get a physical copy!
January 25, 2022
I've read a few childhood friends to lovers books but I've never heard of childhood enemies to lovers and if they're anything like this book I've been missing out.
Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke have known each other since childhood and they never got along. Growing up they would always prank and tease each other. Now as adults, Poppy has taken over her family's bar because after her dad died of cancer a year earlier her mom decided to take a trip with his sister to try and deal with her grief. She also just got divorced after finding her husband with another woman. Charlie or "Chuck" as Poppy likes to call him returned to town to take care off his dying mother after being gone for years and became a deputy. Growing up his family didn't have a lot of money and he left to find work so he could help his mom keep their home while repaying his dad's dept.
Plot:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice:🌶🌶🌶/5
I loved pretty much everything about this book but the thing I enjoyed the most was the fact that they managed to solve their misunderstandings like adults because despite the fact that they disliked each other, once they started talking they actually listened to each other and they didn't keep any unnecessary, big secrets. Also the book was extremely funny and Chuck's internal dialogue had me laughing most of the time. And in my opinion the possum has a very well-deserved place on the cover of the book because it was an amazing character. 😂
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for am honest review!
Poppy Prince and Charlie Duke have known each other since childhood and they never got along. Growing up they would always prank and tease each other. Now as adults, Poppy has taken over her family's bar because after her dad died of cancer a year earlier her mom decided to take a trip with his sister to try and deal with her grief. She also just got divorced after finding her husband with another woman. Charlie or "Chuck" as Poppy likes to call him returned to town to take care off his dying mother after being gone for years and became a deputy. Growing up his family didn't have a lot of money and he left to find work so he could help his mom keep their home while repaying his dad's dept.
Plot:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice:🌶🌶🌶/5
I loved pretty much everything about this book but the thing I enjoyed the most was the fact that they managed to solve their misunderstandings like adults because despite the fact that they disliked each other, once they started talking they actually listened to each other and they didn't keep any unnecessary, big secrets. Also the book was extremely funny and Chuck's internal dialogue had me laughing most of the time. And in my opinion the possum has a very well-deserved place on the cover of the book because it was an amazing character. 😂
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for am honest review!
December 1, 2021
First of, WOW! I love me some good love\ hate relationship. The banter between those two was immaculate, the tension, and the excitement of whether or not they'd kiss or shout at each other. And Chuck has glasses? Sign me up. The characters have very interesting and different personalities, they were portrayed beautifully! Those two felt like a team even before they solved the conflict, and it was really nice to see how their relationship developed. I can't wait to get my physical copy when it comes out! Diana Roman, you did amazing!
April 1, 2022
Not Your Mama’s Romance
Dianna Roman is the master of analogy! Hilarious, sweet, prickly, and ugly all at the same time. Found myself laughing out loud, and then tearing up. This author knows how to pull the reader in, make us live in the setting, and intrigue us with her characters’ inner monologues.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes and Roman doesn’t hold back on conflict, torment, inner turmoil, misunderstanding and hilarious banter. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, and tender love story, this ain’t it! These characters have been raised in a tough place, work in a rough world, and their skins are thicker than rawhide. Don’t mess with rural Illinoisans… they grew up on porcupines and possums, and they’ll mess back! However, they are the first to give a helping hand to those who need it.
There’s nothing sweet about Poppy Prince, at least not on the outside. She hides her poor self confidence well, she has to… she owns the family bar, after all, and the folks in Grand Valley don’t coddle. She’s been through hell but her business isn’t suffering under her control, though her self esteem is thanks to her cheating ex, and her old high school bully showing up every night just to piss her off.
Deputy Charlie Duke can’t help himself… he’s drawn to Poppy like a bear to honey; even her wicked stings can’t keep him away. They’ve been doing this dance since he hit puberty, exchanging barbs and insults that is, but it’s the only way he can communicate with her and keep his sanity. He’d be damned if he could stop himself. He knows her better than anyone which he’s sure pisses her off the most, and he hates that she’s hurting so much. He’d do anything to sooth her hurt and make her his.
On the surface, A Fair Warning is an in-your-face, no holds barred barroom brawl, but at its heart, this story is about people who’ve been hurt and lived to tell. It’s about finding your person in the last place you’d think to look. It’s about forgiveness, acceptance, and looking beyond high school stereotypes, while teasing the shit out of the people you love just to get a reaction. It’s about realizing we’re not perfect, but we perfect our relationships as long as we’re honest with ourselves and each other.
I absolutely love this story. A Fair Warning is the first of Roman’s Grand Valley novels and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Merged review:
Not your Mama’s Romance
Dianna Roman is the master of analogy! Hilarious, sweet, prickly, and ugly all at the same time. Found myself laughing out loud, and then tearing up. This author knows how to pull the reader in, make us live in the setting, and intrigue us with her characters’ inner monologues.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes and Roman doesn’t hold back on conflict, torment, inner turmoil, misunderstanding and hilarious banter. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, and tender love story, this ain’t it! These characters have been raised in a tough place, work in a rough world, and their skins are thicker than rawhide. Don’t mess with rural Illinoisans… they grew up on porcupines and possums, and they’ll mess back! However, they are the first to give a helping hand to those who need it.
There’s nothing sweet about Poppy Prince, at least not on the outside. She hides her poor self confidence well, she has to… she owns the family bar, after all, and the folks in Grand Valley don’t coddle. She’s been through hell but her business isn’t suffering under her control, though her self esteem is thanks to her cheating ex, and her old high school bully showing up every night just to piss her off.
Deputy Charlie Duke can’t help himself… he’s drawn to Poppy like a bear to honey; even her wicked stings can’t keep him away. They’ve been doing this dance since he hit puberty, exchanging barbs and insults that is, but it’s the only way he can communicate with her and keep his sanity. He’d be damned if he could stop himself. He knows her better than anyone which he’s sure pisses her off the most, and he hates that she’s hurting so much. He’d do anything to sooth her hurt and make her his.
On the surface, A Fair Warning is an in-your-face, no holds barred barroom brawl, but at its heart, this story is about people who’ve been hurt and lived to tell. It’s about finding your person in the last place you’d think to look. It’s about forgiveness, acceptance, and looking beyond high school stereotypes, while teasing the shit out of the people you love just to get a reaction. It’s about realizing we’re not perfect, but we perfect our relationships as long as we’re honest with ourselves and each other.
I absolutely love this story. A Fair Warning is the first of Roman’s Grand Valley novels and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Dianna Roman is the master of analogy! Hilarious, sweet, prickly, and ugly all at the same time. Found myself laughing out loud, and then tearing up. This author knows how to pull the reader in, make us live in the setting, and intrigue us with her characters’ inner monologues.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes and Roman doesn’t hold back on conflict, torment, inner turmoil, misunderstanding and hilarious banter. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, and tender love story, this ain’t it! These characters have been raised in a tough place, work in a rough world, and their skins are thicker than rawhide. Don’t mess with rural Illinoisans… they grew up on porcupines and possums, and they’ll mess back! However, they are the first to give a helping hand to those who need it.
There’s nothing sweet about Poppy Prince, at least not on the outside. She hides her poor self confidence well, she has to… she owns the family bar, after all, and the folks in Grand Valley don’t coddle. She’s been through hell but her business isn’t suffering under her control, though her self esteem is thanks to her cheating ex, and her old high school bully showing up every night just to piss her off.
Deputy Charlie Duke can’t help himself… he’s drawn to Poppy like a bear to honey; even her wicked stings can’t keep him away. They’ve been doing this dance since he hit puberty, exchanging barbs and insults that is, but it’s the only way he can communicate with her and keep his sanity. He’d be damned if he could stop himself. He knows her better than anyone which he’s sure pisses her off the most, and he hates that she’s hurting so much. He’d do anything to sooth her hurt and make her his.
On the surface, A Fair Warning is an in-your-face, no holds barred barroom brawl, but at its heart, this story is about people who’ve been hurt and lived to tell. It’s about finding your person in the last place you’d think to look. It’s about forgiveness, acceptance, and looking beyond high school stereotypes, while teasing the shit out of the people you love just to get a reaction. It’s about realizing we’re not perfect, but we perfect our relationships as long as we’re honest with ourselves and each other.
I absolutely love this story. A Fair Warning is the first of Roman’s Grand Valley novels and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Merged review:
Not your Mama’s Romance
Dianna Roman is the master of analogy! Hilarious, sweet, prickly, and ugly all at the same time. Found myself laughing out loud, and then tearing up. This author knows how to pull the reader in, make us live in the setting, and intrigue us with her characters’ inner monologues.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes and Roman doesn’t hold back on conflict, torment, inner turmoil, misunderstanding and hilarious banter. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, and tender love story, this ain’t it! These characters have been raised in a tough place, work in a rough world, and their skins are thicker than rawhide. Don’t mess with rural Illinoisans… they grew up on porcupines and possums, and they’ll mess back! However, they are the first to give a helping hand to those who need it.
There’s nothing sweet about Poppy Prince, at least not on the outside. She hides her poor self confidence well, she has to… she owns the family bar, after all, and the folks in Grand Valley don’t coddle. She’s been through hell but her business isn’t suffering under her control, though her self esteem is thanks to her cheating ex, and her old high school bully showing up every night just to piss her off.
Deputy Charlie Duke can’t help himself… he’s drawn to Poppy like a bear to honey; even her wicked stings can’t keep him away. They’ve been doing this dance since he hit puberty, exchanging barbs and insults that is, but it’s the only way he can communicate with her and keep his sanity. He’d be damned if he could stop himself. He knows her better than anyone which he’s sure pisses her off the most, and he hates that she’s hurting so much. He’d do anything to sooth her hurt and make her his.
On the surface, A Fair Warning is an in-your-face, no holds barred barroom brawl, but at its heart, this story is about people who’ve been hurt and lived to tell. It’s about finding your person in the last place you’d think to look. It’s about forgiveness, acceptance, and looking beyond high school stereotypes, while teasing the shit out of the people you love just to get a reaction. It’s about realizing we’re not perfect, but we perfect our relationships as long as we’re honest with ourselves and each other.
I absolutely love this story. A Fair Warning is the first of Roman’s Grand Valley novels and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
November 25, 2021
BOOK REVIEW: A Fair Warning by Dianna Roman
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RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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REVIEW: This book had me feeling all the feels. I laughed, I cried, I was happy & I was sad.
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Poppy is a bad-ass bar owner in a small town. Chuck is a deputy for the local sheriff's office. They grew up in the same town and have been rivals their whole lives. Throughout the book, they navigate going from enemies to lovers and figuring out how to interact as such. We get to learn so much about their backgrounds and why they behave the way they do towards both eachother and in general.
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I am looking forward to reading more books about Poppy & Chuck and seeing where life takes them. I am also looking forward to reading any other books Dianna puts out!
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RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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REVIEW: This book had me feeling all the feels. I laughed, I cried, I was happy & I was sad.
.
Poppy is a bad-ass bar owner in a small town. Chuck is a deputy for the local sheriff's office. They grew up in the same town and have been rivals their whole lives. Throughout the book, they navigate going from enemies to lovers and figuring out how to interact as such. We get to learn so much about their backgrounds and why they behave the way they do towards both eachother and in general.
.
I am looking forward to reading more books about Poppy & Chuck and seeing where life takes them. I am also looking forward to reading any other books Dianna puts out!
March 12, 2022
This was just the LOL read I needed. New to me author recommended by a friend and I loved it! Enemies to lovers with a small town vibe.
Poppy and Chuck were childhood enemies with unrequited feelings. Plenty of unnecessary teenage angst made their HEA even sweeter. Told in dual POV, I especially loved his chapters. It’s a fast, fun read and I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
I received an arc of this book
Poppy and Chuck were childhood enemies with unrequited feelings. Plenty of unnecessary teenage angst made their HEA even sweeter. Told in dual POV, I especially loved his chapters. It’s a fast, fun read and I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
I received an arc of this book
November 24, 2021
What does a bag of dog poop, a possum and a hot deputy have in common? Poppy Prince, a sassy badassy bartender, that's what.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and this one doesn't disappoint. The angry banter is hilarious. Their first kiss... oh my yes please. Charlie Duke is sweeter than honey, I don't care if he does smell like bag of dog poop. Poppy's sassiness is almost as funny as how clueless she is about Chuck's undying childhood crush. There's few steamy moments and I love Grand Valley and their Three Fingered mayor. But my fav part is definitely Bob the possum.
You won't be disappointed by this sweet rom com.
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and this one doesn't disappoint. The angry banter is hilarious. Their first kiss... oh my yes please. Charlie Duke is sweeter than honey, I don't care if he does smell like bag of dog poop. Poppy's sassiness is almost as funny as how clueless she is about Chuck's undying childhood crush. There's few steamy moments and I love Grand Valley and their Three Fingered mayor. But my fav part is definitely Bob the possum.
You won't be disappointed by this sweet rom com.
November 26, 2021
A very beautifull and funny story about two people who knew each other since they were teenagers . He was in love with her and he always tease her or make pranks to her .She thought that he hated her . After her divorce he approch her and try to be more friendly . I loved the insults and the funny names they called each other . The way he loves her is amazing .
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 26, 2021
Great read, can't wait for the rest of this series.
Poppy and Chuck grew up together, but she never realised that his name calling and teasing was just to get her attention because he liked her. Years later, she is newly divorced and he is the local Deputy. Will she give him a chance now they are older?
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
Poppy and Chuck grew up together, but she never realised that his name calling and teasing was just to get her attention because he liked her. Years later, she is newly divorced and he is the local Deputy. Will she give him a chance now they are older?
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
January 16, 2022
I started reading this book with the intention of just reading for a few minutes before bed but was immediately sucked in and read almost the entire book in one sitting. I absolutely loved it.
Charlie and Poppy both have fun personalities and there’s a lot hidden behind the facade they each put on. The book did a great job of breaking that down for each of them and had some fun banter along the way. It’s your typical enemies to lovers romcom.
Thank you to netgalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I would definitely read other stories by this author in the future.
Charlie and Poppy both have fun personalities and there’s a lot hidden behind the facade they each put on. The book did a great job of breaking that down for each of them and had some fun banter along the way. It’s your typical enemies to lovers romcom.
Thank you to netgalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I would definitely read other stories by this author in the future.
March 28, 2022
Poppy Prince runs her family's bar The Silver Bullet. She's recently divorced after she discovered her ex banging his girlfriend in their bed, and living at her family home, albeit her widowed mother is travelling Europe with her sister.
Charlie 'Chuck' Duke is the local Deputy. He's been her nemesis since they were at school together, created her hated nickname Poppycock and generally takes any and every opportunity to push her buttons. She loathes him and wishes he'd stop coming into her bar, drinking his hillbilly swill beer, and making annoying comments.
Chuck has loved Poppy since they were kids, he's tried everything to get her to notice him 'that way'. Compliments, teasing, practical jokes, you name it. And he just loves pushing Poppy's buttons. He may have been away for a few years but as soon as he returned home to Grand Valley, Burnam County, Illinois he was as enthralled as ever. She might be a Townie and he's a River Rat but the heart wants what the heart wants. Can he ever get her to give him a chance?
This was pleasant enough but TBH it felt like a novella that had been stretched out to a novel. Most of the romantic tension happens quite early on, and then its just a bit of rinse and repeat as Poppy wonders why he looks so sad, is he breaking up with her and Chuck wonders if Poppy will realise he's not worth the effort and dump him *yawn*.
There's also a bit of tension which I could see telegraphed from miles away which didn't really go anywhere and felt a bit unrealistic to me.
Also, call me a cynic but if the author is dedicated to her writing how can she have the next seven books in the series already mapped out with hero and heroine? I get you have seven other characters for whom you want to find happy endings in future books, but to have already chosen their love interest?
Anyway, it was okay.
EDIT: I forgot to say, I really disliked the way in which Poppy speaks so disparagingly about Chuck's origins, she slightly redeems herself later, but all of her nasty comments about his origins say more about her than him. In this era of #BeKind hateful talk like that is distasteful. Of course Chuck also talks like a crazed stalker at times so he's not entirely blameless either.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Charlie 'Chuck' Duke is the local Deputy. He's been her nemesis since they were at school together, created her hated nickname Poppycock and generally takes any and every opportunity to push her buttons. She loathes him and wishes he'd stop coming into her bar, drinking his hillbilly swill beer, and making annoying comments.
Chuck has loved Poppy since they were kids, he's tried everything to get her to notice him 'that way'. Compliments, teasing, practical jokes, you name it. And he just loves pushing Poppy's buttons. He may have been away for a few years but as soon as he returned home to Grand Valley, Burnam County, Illinois he was as enthralled as ever. She might be a Townie and he's a River Rat but the heart wants what the heart wants. Can he ever get her to give him a chance?
This was pleasant enough but TBH it felt like a novella that had been stretched out to a novel. Most of the romantic tension happens quite early on, and then its just a bit of rinse and repeat as Poppy wonders why he looks so sad, is he breaking up with her and Chuck wonders if Poppy will realise he's not worth the effort and dump him *yawn*.
There's also a bit of tension which I could see telegraphed from miles away which didn't really go anywhere and felt a bit unrealistic to me.
Also, call me a cynic but if the author is dedicated to her writing how can she have the next seven books in the series already mapped out with hero and heroine? I get you have seven other characters for whom you want to find happy endings in future books, but to have already chosen their love interest?
Anyway, it was okay.
EDIT: I forgot to say, I really disliked the way in which Poppy speaks so disparagingly about Chuck's origins, she slightly redeems herself later, but all of her nasty comments about his origins say more about her than him. In this era of #BeKind hateful talk like that is distasteful. Of course Chuck also talks like a crazed stalker at times so he's not entirely blameless either.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
December 2, 2021
I'll be honest, I had a hard time starting this book. The narration point of view was a bit different from my usual, with the occasional break in the 4th wall type of comments, as if the characters were talking to the reader. BUT, as I got into the story more, I quickly got used to the writing style and fell in love with the characters.
Poppy... oh Poppy. She's a spit fire character, who handles her shit well. I mean, literally. I loved getting to see her hard shell slowly break as she became self aware. I just loved her.
And don't even get me started on Charlie Duke. I think I fell in love with that man at least 10 times. What can I say, I have a thing for snarky country boys. 🤷♀️
Overall, 4.25/5.
Thank you to Dianna Roman, her publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book before its release date in exchange for my honest review!!
Poppy... oh Poppy. She's a spit fire character, who handles her shit well. I mean, literally. I loved getting to see her hard shell slowly break as she became self aware. I just loved her.
And don't even get me started on Charlie Duke. I think I fell in love with that man at least 10 times. What can I say, I have a thing for snarky country boys. 🤷♀️
Overall, 4.25/5.
Thank you to Dianna Roman, her publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book before its release date in exchange for my honest review!!
January 10, 2022
Book Review
A Fair Warning
By Dianna Roman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶 🌶 🌶/5
Pub date: 3/25/2022
Overall this book was a good, spicy, friends to enemies romance. I liked Poppy and Charlie a lot. I did find their supporting cast a little confusing- a lot of names starting with P’s and T’s it was hard to keep everyone straight.
But there were some pretty hilarious scenes, I did a lot of laughing while reading. The banter between Poppy and Chuck was great. A good, quick, spicy read.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the Green Valley series, looks like there will be quite a few more books, with some fairy tale retelling, which I love.
Tropes hit: small town romance, second chances, enemies to lovers.
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC copy of this book.
A Fair Warning
By Dianna Roman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶 🌶 🌶/5
Pub date: 3/25/2022
Overall this book was a good, spicy, friends to enemies romance. I liked Poppy and Charlie a lot. I did find their supporting cast a little confusing- a lot of names starting with P’s and T’s it was hard to keep everyone straight.
But there were some pretty hilarious scenes, I did a lot of laughing while reading. The banter between Poppy and Chuck was great. A good, quick, spicy read.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the Green Valley series, looks like there will be quite a few more books, with some fairy tale retelling, which I love.
Tropes hit: small town romance, second chances, enemies to lovers.
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC copy of this book.
January 30, 2022
Wow! This book grabbed me right from the start and had me laughing out loud all the way through!
This is an hilarious enemies to lovers romance that very successfully blends absolutely cracking humour with a story that starts to unwrap the layers of it's main characters early on, building up the insights into the backstory of both of them, and has you cheering for their HEA.
The bad blood between 'Upchuck' and 'Poppycock' startsedat high school, but we are introduced to them some years later at the time of Poppy's divorce. Chuck has moved away after school and returns to his small hometown as a local deputy, while Poppy has taken over the family's tavern. Chuck seems to have endless reserves of quiet patience, and has been holding a candle for Poppy for years. She on the other hand is quite the firecracker and is still hacked off with Chuck over something that happened when they were both at high school. Understandable though - he seems to have been a bit of a toe rag back then.
This is hands down one of the funniest books I've read in ages, but it comes with plenty of heartfelt angst and emotional backstory which combines to make a fantastic read. Once I'd started it was seriously hard to put this one down!
Can't wait for more of the same from this author and absolutely 100% recommend this one! As Molly Meldrum used to say "Do yourself a favour" and get your hands on a copy!
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review. Sometimes you hit the jackpot. Hoorah!
This is an hilarious enemies to lovers romance that very successfully blends absolutely cracking humour with a story that starts to unwrap the layers of it's main characters early on, building up the insights into the backstory of both of them, and has you cheering for their HEA.
The bad blood between 'Upchuck' and 'Poppycock' startsedat high school, but we are introduced to them some years later at the time of Poppy's divorce. Chuck has moved away after school and returns to his small hometown as a local deputy, while Poppy has taken over the family's tavern. Chuck seems to have endless reserves of quiet patience, and has been holding a candle for Poppy for years. She on the other hand is quite the firecracker and is still hacked off with Chuck over something that happened when they were both at high school. Understandable though - he seems to have been a bit of a toe rag back then.
This is hands down one of the funniest books I've read in ages, but it comes with plenty of heartfelt angst and emotional backstory which combines to make a fantastic read. Once I'd started it was seriously hard to put this one down!
Can't wait for more of the same from this author and absolutely 100% recommend this one! As Molly Meldrum used to say "Do yourself a favour" and get your hands on a copy!
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review. Sometimes you hit the jackpot. Hoorah!
December 15, 2021
I loved this hilarious rom-com!! The blurb made me laugh and I couldn't pass it by. I was so excited to see this is only the first book in a series about Poppy's siblings and cousins. I hope I enjoy those as much as this first book.
Poppy Prince grew up in a small town where there were two distinct groups: townies and river rats, and the two groups never mixed. Charlie "Chuck" Duke was a river rat that followed her around and harassed her through her childhood, even creating her most hated nickname "Poppycock". She always hated his cruel pranks and teasing and now that he's returned to town and become the deputy, he's back to stalking her, showing up at her bar almost every night. Charlie has always loved Poppy and it seems the only way to get her to notice him is by teasing her. He can't understand what he did to make her hate him so much. But after a projectile puke incident, she sees what he goes through for his job and realizes that maybe he's changed. Maybe her nemesis is who she's been longing for all along...
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Poppy Prince grew up in a small town where there were two distinct groups: townies and river rats, and the two groups never mixed. Charlie "Chuck" Duke was a river rat that followed her around and harassed her through her childhood, even creating her most hated nickname "Poppycock". She always hated his cruel pranks and teasing and now that he's returned to town and become the deputy, he's back to stalking her, showing up at her bar almost every night. Charlie has always loved Poppy and it seems the only way to get her to notice him is by teasing her. He can't understand what he did to make her hate him so much. But after a projectile puke incident, she sees what he goes through for his job and realizes that maybe he's changed. Maybe her nemesis is who she's been longing for all along...
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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