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Love Stories in Sheet Cake, Texas #2
The Bluff
I won't be winning any employee of the year awards. But only because my boss is the grumpy boss to end all grumpy bosses. Did I mention he doesn't trust me to do my job?
Challenge accepted.
Not only am I going to help James launch a successful brewery, but I'm going to find out what makes him tick ... and what makes him go boom.
All this has nothing to do with the fact that the man is unbearably, unfairly, unignorably (is that a word?) attractive. Or that he lost his mom when he was young, same as me.
The more he pushes me away, the more I'm pulled into his orbit. It's a battle of stubborn wills, and I don't plan to concede anytime soon.
Except the more time I spend around James Graham, the more I start to lose the one thing I refuse to give to any man ... my heart.
The Bluff is an enemies to lovers, grumpy boss rom-com set in the fictional small town of Sheet Cake, Texas. You'll find plenty of laughs and sizzling chemistry in this closed door romantic comedy. It's the second in a series, but can be read as a standalone.
Challenge accepted.
Not only am I going to help James launch a successful brewery, but I'm going to find out what makes him tick ... and what makes him go boom.
All this has nothing to do with the fact that the man is unbearably, unfairly, unignorably (is that a word?) attractive. Or that he lost his mom when he was young, same as me.
The more he pushes me away, the more I'm pulled into his orbit. It's a battle of stubborn wills, and I don't plan to concede anytime soon.
Except the more time I spend around James Graham, the more I start to lose the one thing I refuse to give to any man ... my heart.
The Bluff is an enemies to lovers, grumpy boss rom-com set in the fictional small town of Sheet Cake, Texas. You'll find plenty of laughs and sizzling chemistry in this closed door romantic comedy. It's the second in a series, but can be read as a standalone.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2022
1595 people are currently reading
10989 people want to read
About the author
Emma St. Clair
60 books3,826 followersEmma St. Clair is a USA Today Bestselling Author who loves sassy heroines, witty banter, and love stories with heart and humor. She has an MFA in Fiction and lives in Katy, Texas (go, Tigers!) with her hubby, five children, and Great Dane. Her favorite place to write is tapping on her phone while on the elliptical machine. No Emmas have been hurt in the writing of these novels. (Yet.)
Want a free novella? Grab Upping the Ante here: https://emmastclair.com/ante
You can follow the day-to-day on instagram @kikimojo.
Want a free novella? Grab Upping the Ante here: https://emmastclair.com/ante
You can follow the day-to-day on instagram @kikimojo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 634 reviews
June 16, 2022
he wasn't grumpy he was actually very very rude
June 16, 2022
Kisses only. I was really looking forward to this and I enjoyed the first bit of the book and I look forward to reading other books in the series but there were a few turnoffs for me:
1. I love a good broody silent type but not a rude broody silent type. I was hoping that we’d have some great uncovering to why James is so broody or that there’d be discussion about his anxiety or something but there wasn’t. Instead, he was just really rude a lot of the time and didn’t get any help for his issues.
2. I hate possessive guys. James and Winnie aren’t in a relationship and yet he is controlling and possessive. He even throws a guy who is talking to Winnie into a pool.
3. Winnie’s button pushing. She knows things come at a bad time yet she stays on the track of pushing too far.
4. Dale’s infidelity was perhaps not we’ll handled. Why doesn’t Winnie say anything to his fiancée? Look out for other women and all that. He cheated on the fiancée too and will probably do it again so SAY SOMETHING!
5. James’ family was mean to him too. They know he can’t take a joke yet they joke with him. They try to butt in rather than stepping back and trying to understand. They pushed him to open a brewery, on a very short time table, that he didn’t even want (or did he want? It’s a little unclear and unresolved).
6. The whole feastivus scene. It was something out of a bad slapstick comedy movie. I was cringing when it described how people brought their unleashed dogs to a public feast because it seems way unsanitary and even the best of dogs can’t resist going after table food. The whole scene was too much, too unbelievable, too everything.
1. I love a good broody silent type but not a rude broody silent type. I was hoping that we’d have some great uncovering to why James is so broody or that there’d be discussion about his anxiety or something but there wasn’t. Instead, he was just really rude a lot of the time and didn’t get any help for his issues.
2. I hate possessive guys. James and Winnie aren’t in a relationship and yet he is controlling and possessive. He even throws a guy who is talking to Winnie into a pool.
3. Winnie’s button pushing. She knows things come at a bad time yet she stays on the track of pushing too far.
4. Dale’s infidelity was perhaps not we’ll handled. Why doesn’t Winnie say anything to his fiancée? Look out for other women and all that. He cheated on the fiancée too and will probably do it again so SAY SOMETHING!
5. James’ family was mean to him too. They know he can’t take a joke yet they joke with him. They try to butt in rather than stepping back and trying to understand. They pushed him to open a brewery, on a very short time table, that he didn’t even want (or did he want? It’s a little unclear and unresolved).
6. The whole feastivus scene. It was something out of a bad slapstick comedy movie. I was cringing when it described how people brought their unleashed dogs to a public feast because it seems way unsanitary and even the best of dogs can’t resist going after table food. The whole scene was too much, too unbelievable, too everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2022
"You're the living embodiment of a fictional bad boy, ready to steal hearts and make ovaries explode."
James Graham is the most lovable grump! A huge control freak, stubborn to the core, brash .... I could go on. But underneath that gruffness is softness and a fierce protectiveness. Swoon! I loved seeing him slowly show a more vulernable side towards Winnie.
In the process of opening his brewery, Winnie is hired temporarily to help assist—and she pushes ALL his buttons! Their hate-lust tension was so good. Winnie was the perfect match for James, never wilting at his grumpiness. Their text exchanges, with James being incredibly straightforward and unenthusiastic, were hilarious!
It was simply so fun being back in Sheet Cake, Texas. I continue to love the sprinkles of heartfelt family moments. I've developed a bit of a crush on Chevy, so I'll be impatiently waiting for the next release!
James Graham is the most lovable grump! A huge control freak, stubborn to the core, brash .... I could go on. But underneath that gruffness is softness and a fierce protectiveness. Swoon! I loved seeing him slowly show a more vulernable side towards Winnie.
In the process of opening his brewery, Winnie is hired temporarily to help assist—and she pushes ALL his buttons! Their hate-lust tension was so good. Winnie was the perfect match for James, never wilting at his grumpiness. Their text exchanges, with James being incredibly straightforward and unenthusiastic, were hilarious!
It was simply so fun being back in Sheet Cake, Texas. I continue to love the sprinkles of heartfelt family moments. I've developed a bit of a crush on Chevy, so I'll be impatiently waiting for the next release!
June 15, 2022
Emma St. Clair knocks it out of the park every single time. I loved The Bluff and the grumpy hero with the sassy heroine. There were so many times I highlighted a passage because I laughed out loud but so many places where I swooned right along with the heroine. I canNOT wait for book 3.
July 12, 2022
James is a great character. Winnie is fun, I can easily imagine her style. I struggled to get into this one. I think it was all the beer and drink mentions, not my thing. There’s lots of sarcasm and physical attraction. The “seed” is a sweet thread that I appreciated. Fans of Romcoms will enjoy this one!
June 18, 2022
What do you get when you take a handsome, grumpy boss and put him in forced proximity with his bright, sunshiney employee?
When it’s an Emma St. Clair book, you get swoony, sizzling chemistry, flirty banter, and too many laugh-out-loud scenes to count. Add to that
🛗an empty elevator
🛏️a one-bed trope (while keeping things sweet and clean!)
😼a spunky orange tabby cat
👫fabulous side characters from Sheet Cake (the town that James' dad bought)
🦃a Feastivus gone wrong
🐊alligator growls and
💕genuine characters with depth
and you have a 10⭐ winner that showcases the authors ability to write heartfelt love stories that also make you laugh and smile.
Can I just tell you how much I love James and Winnie?
Darcy needs to hand in his badge because James is the true grump to end all grumps. The one grump to rule them all.
Winnie is full of sass and spunk and I love that she is not afraid to poke the sleeping bear. 😂 She is witty, intelligent, determined, and the perfect match for James. Is it creepy that I wish she were real so we could be best friends?
For the scrollers, let me just sum up my review of The Bluff in one sentence:
TL;DR - I absolutely, positively and completely ADORE James and Winnie's brilliantly witty and swoony love story and you all NEED to go read it. Cannot wait for Val and Chevy's story next!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
When it’s an Emma St. Clair book, you get swoony, sizzling chemistry, flirty banter, and too many laugh-out-loud scenes to count. Add to that
🛗an empty elevator
🛏️a one-bed trope (while keeping things sweet and clean!)
😼a spunky orange tabby cat
👫fabulous side characters from Sheet Cake (the town that James' dad bought)
🦃a Feastivus gone wrong
🐊alligator growls and
💕genuine characters with depth
and you have a 10⭐ winner that showcases the authors ability to write heartfelt love stories that also make you laugh and smile.
Can I just tell you how much I love James and Winnie?
Darcy needs to hand in his badge because James is the true grump to end all grumps. The one grump to rule them all.
Winnie is full of sass and spunk and I love that she is not afraid to poke the sleeping bear. 😂 She is witty, intelligent, determined, and the perfect match for James. Is it creepy that I wish she were real so we could be best friends?
For the scrollers, let me just sum up my review of The Bluff in one sentence:
TL;DR - I absolutely, positively and completely ADORE James and Winnie's brilliantly witty and swoony love story and you all NEED to go read it. Cannot wait for Val and Chevy's story next!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
August 16, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Okay, James was seriously as Darcy-ish as they come! And Winnie was a firecracker—loved her!
Throughout the story, my sympathies were torn—I very much understand James’s frustration with “helping” (meddling) and the struggle of feeling constantly overwhelmed, particularly with crowds. BUT I am completely on board with Winnie’s feelings of vexation in being mansplained or having her ideas & contributions brushed aside. In short, this book made me feel very seen. And James’s final break? That broke me. 😭
Although heavy on the physical attraction, the romance was really sweet!
___
July 2023 Reread
I fell in love with the Graham family all over again… they’re the sweetest 🥰
____
Audiobook Review
It was just perfect and oh so wonderfully captured Winnie & James!
Okay, James was seriously as Darcy-ish as they come! And Winnie was a firecracker—loved her!
Throughout the story, my sympathies were torn—I very much understand James’s frustration with “helping” (meddling) and the struggle of feeling constantly overwhelmed, particularly with crowds. BUT I am completely on board with Winnie’s feelings of vexation in being mansplained or having her ideas & contributions brushed aside. In short, this book made me feel very seen. And James’s final break? That broke me. 😭
Although heavy on the physical attraction, the romance was really sweet!
___
July 2023 Reread
I fell in love with the Graham family all over again… they’re the sweetest 🥰
____
Audiobook Review
It was just perfect and oh so wonderfully captured Winnie & James!
June 30, 2022
She was overbearing. He had major anger issues. But I will absolutely read the next book.
May 8, 2023
I
Am
Obsessed
With
These
People
I loved Pat & Lindy! (Hello MOC trope 😍😍)
But yyyaaallll James was *chefs kiss* I’m holding out on final decisions because I have a feeling Collin is gonna be a good one. But I think James might be my favorite Graham brother!
AND HIM & WINNIE TOGGEETTHHHEERRR?! Sold! They were fire & more fire and I looovveedd seeing them go toe to toe with each other!
Again, Emma doesn’t JUST write romance (though 🫠🫠 she knows how to do that) (that elevator kiss?! The nightmare scene?! The motorcycle?! IYKYK!!!)
But the characters have REAL LIFE struggles and they are in NO WAY perfect! And that makes them perfect to me!
5/5 stars!
Am
Obsessed
With
These
People
I loved Pat & Lindy! (Hello MOC trope 😍😍)
But yyyaaallll James was *chefs kiss* I’m holding out on final decisions because I have a feeling Collin is gonna be a good one. But I think James might be my favorite Graham brother!
AND HIM & WINNIE TOGGEETTHHHEERRR?! Sold! They were fire & more fire and I looovveedd seeing them go toe to toe with each other!
Again, Emma doesn’t JUST write romance (though 🫠🫠 she knows how to do that) (that elevator kiss?! The nightmare scene?! The motorcycle?! IYKYK!!!)
But the characters have REAL LIFE struggles and they are in NO WAY perfect! And that makes them perfect to me!
5/5 stars!
April 25, 2023
This was a super fun grumpy/sunshine, workplace romance set in small town Texas. Definitely my favorite of the series so far and recommended for fans of authors like Savannah Scott and Kortney Keisel or other brewery romance books like The suite spot by Trish Doller or The dating dare by Jayci Lee. Great on audio too narrated by Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock.
March 2, 2023
2023 Review:
I would say I liked this book even better than I did the first time I read it. Being back in Sheetcake, Texas, this month has made me inordinately happy, and to do so with some superb audiobooks makes it even better. There are just so many things to love about this and I do love it. So, so much! I am not sooooo ready for the next book!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock — I *loved* this audiobook! These narrators hit the personalities of their characters right on the head and I couldn’t have been happier. First of all, I love that the narrators aren’t the same as the first book. That helps make the characters seem even more real, not sharing their voices with someone else. Secondly, Aaron Shedlock made me fall in love with James in a way I hadn’t completely the first time I read this book and I will always be grateful to Aaron for that. Thanks, Aaron! Honestly, this is another 5⭐️ audio version for me. If you want a good audiobook, pick this one (and it’s predecessor)!
2022 Review:
You know those books that make you happy for simply existing in the world? That is The Bluff for me. First of all, I am obsessed with the cover color. Why aren’t more covers this gorgeous color? Secondly, I am obsessed with Sheet Cake and it’s quirky residents and every single one of the Graham family. I love them all so much! So another book in the Sheet Cake, Texas, world (with the bonus amazing color) make for a sure winner. Plus, it’s Emma St. Clair, so you know it’s bound to be good.
And it was! James and Winnie were so perfect for each other. I think I’m more of a cinnamon roll fan myself, but Winnie was perfect for The Grump. And James is a pretty dang good grump! If you love a grumpy hero, do yourself a favor and pick up this book, because James checks all the boxes. He became my very favorite at the hotel (and afterward). IYKYK. And Winnie is pretty much the best. I love her and her feisty personality.
This book primarily focused on James and Winnie, so we got less of the Sheeters and the Graham family than we got in the first book. Not that the story is lacking anything—it’s not—just want to mention it in case you were looking for more of The Bobs like I was. Ha! I was also waiting for James—or Winnie—to have an “aha” about social anxiety, which didn’t happen in an obvious way. But those are minor things that in no way detract from story overall.
There is a lot to love about this one and I kind of want everyone to read this (and it’s predecessor, The Buy-In) so they can all enjoy the Graham family and the town of Sheet Cake like I do. In case you need more reasons to read this one, let me list a bunch of other things I love:
-The Office jokes (despite never seeing the show once [don’t throw tomatoes!], I love when a single pop culture reference gets used over and over. It’s so fun to me!
-Chess with Jo
-Big Mo. I need him to have a book, Emma! Pretty pretty please! I also need his recipe for pie; can you hook a girl up?
-The Neighborly app convos make me giggle every time!
-I love Mari. Just so much.
-I also love Val and am SO STINKING EXCITED for her book!
-The little teaser about Tank’s potential story is warming my heart. Do we get lots more books in the town of Sheet Cake? That would make me very happy.
-The motorcycle!🔥
-The swimming pool!🔥🔥
-The six pack!🔥🔥🔥
-The prank with Dale!! Bahaha!! I died laughing!
-The entire Graham family. All the time, every time, I love them so much. The poker game/convo was fabulous. And i was so happy to see Pat back and get his sass.
-James’s grand gesture at the end was kind of cute. You can’t convince me there isn’t a soft center somewhere on that man.
The more I think on it, the more I come up with to love. It’s just wonderful. You’ve given us another winner, Emma! And i’m so excited for more!
**Many thanks to the author for the gifted copy of the book. These thoughts and opinions belong only to me.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I would say I liked this book even better than I did the first time I read it. Being back in Sheetcake, Texas, this month has made me inordinately happy, and to do so with some superb audiobooks makes it even better. There are just so many things to love about this and I do love it. So, so much! I am not sooooo ready for the next book!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock — I *loved* this audiobook! These narrators hit the personalities of their characters right on the head and I couldn’t have been happier. First of all, I love that the narrators aren’t the same as the first book. That helps make the characters seem even more real, not sharing their voices with someone else. Secondly, Aaron Shedlock made me fall in love with James in a way I hadn’t completely the first time I read this book and I will always be grateful to Aaron for that. Thanks, Aaron! Honestly, this is another 5⭐️ audio version for me. If you want a good audiobook, pick this one (and it’s predecessor)!
2022 Review:
You know those books that make you happy for simply existing in the world? That is The Bluff for me. First of all, I am obsessed with the cover color. Why aren’t more covers this gorgeous color? Secondly, I am obsessed with Sheet Cake and it’s quirky residents and every single one of the Graham family. I love them all so much! So another book in the Sheet Cake, Texas, world (with the bonus amazing color) make for a sure winner. Plus, it’s Emma St. Clair, so you know it’s bound to be good.
And it was! James and Winnie were so perfect for each other. I think I’m more of a cinnamon roll fan myself, but Winnie was perfect for The Grump. And James is a pretty dang good grump! If you love a grumpy hero, do yourself a favor and pick up this book, because James checks all the boxes. He became my very favorite at the hotel (and afterward). IYKYK. And Winnie is pretty much the best. I love her and her feisty personality.
This book primarily focused on James and Winnie, so we got less of the Sheeters and the Graham family than we got in the first book. Not that the story is lacking anything—it’s not—just want to mention it in case you were looking for more of The Bobs like I was. Ha! I was also waiting for James—or Winnie—to have an “aha” about social anxiety, which didn’t happen in an obvious way. But those are minor things that in no way detract from story overall.
There is a lot to love about this one and I kind of want everyone to read this (and it’s predecessor, The Buy-In) so they can all enjoy the Graham family and the town of Sheet Cake like I do. In case you need more reasons to read this one, let me list a bunch of other things I love:
-The Office jokes (despite never seeing the show once [don’t throw tomatoes!], I love when a single pop culture reference gets used over and over. It’s so fun to me!
-Chess with Jo
-Big Mo. I need him to have a book, Emma! Pretty pretty please! I also need his recipe for pie; can you hook a girl up?
-The Neighborly app convos make me giggle every time!
-I love Mari. Just so much.
-I also love Val and am SO STINKING EXCITED for her book!
-The little teaser about Tank’s potential story is warming my heart. Do we get lots more books in the town of Sheet Cake? That would make me very happy.
-The motorcycle!🔥
-The swimming pool!🔥🔥
-The six pack!🔥🔥🔥
-The prank with Dale!! Bahaha!! I died laughing!
-The entire Graham family. All the time, every time, I love them so much. The poker game/convo was fabulous. And i was so happy to see Pat back and get his sass.
-James’s grand gesture at the end was kind of cute. You can’t convince me there isn’t a soft center somewhere on that man.
The more I think on it, the more I come up with to love. It’s just wonderful. You’ve given us another winner, Emma! And i’m so excited for more!
**Many thanks to the author for the gifted copy of the book. These thoughts and opinions belong only to me.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
March 26, 2023
“𝙅𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙂𝙧𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙢 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙛𝙚. 𝙃𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙟𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙏𝙃𝘼𝙏 𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙚. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙄’𝙢 𝙙𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙. 𝙃𝙚’𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮.“
——
Emma St. Clair has written the grumpiest grump of all time in James Graham and I am here for it! 👏🏼👏🏼 The Bluff truly delivered the best grumpy/sunshine vibes I’m always chasing and it’s my new favorite Emma book!
It was so much fun being back in Sheet Cake. I loved getting to know both of these characters! James was truly a big softy underneath his gruff exterior. I enjoyed how Winnie stood her ground against his brashness and slowly got him to lower his guard. The tender moments when they shared personal stories from their pasts warmed my heart. I also loved how fiercely protective James became of Winnie.
Emma is so good at writing a story with the perfect balance of seriousness and hilarity. There were so many LOL moments including a Festivus gone wrong — oh so wrong! And beloved characters from other books showing up was just the icing on the (sheet) cake, ha! I HIGHLY recommend the audiobook. Both narrators are fantastic, but the narrator for James truly brought the grump to life. I cannot wait for Chevy and Val’s story!!
——
Emma St. Clair has written the grumpiest grump of all time in James Graham and I am here for it! 👏🏼👏🏼 The Bluff truly delivered the best grumpy/sunshine vibes I’m always chasing and it’s my new favorite Emma book!
It was so much fun being back in Sheet Cake. I loved getting to know both of these characters! James was truly a big softy underneath his gruff exterior. I enjoyed how Winnie stood her ground against his brashness and slowly got him to lower his guard. The tender moments when they shared personal stories from their pasts warmed my heart. I also loved how fiercely protective James became of Winnie.
Emma is so good at writing a story with the perfect balance of seriousness and hilarity. There were so many LOL moments including a Festivus gone wrong — oh so wrong! And beloved characters from other books showing up was just the icing on the (sheet) cake, ha! I HIGHLY recommend the audiobook. Both narrators are fantastic, but the narrator for James truly brought the grump to life. I cannot wait for Chevy and Val’s story!!
July 21, 2022
4.5 stars
Grump/sunshine and enemies to lovers tropes are two favorites and Emma St. Clair really delivers the perfect balance in this second book in the Graham Brothers series. It’s an engaging romcom with plenty of humor, sweet romance, and those heartfelt moments that really tug at your heartstrings. While the first book in the series is still my favorite, I loved James’ and Winnie’s story and returning to the quirky town of Sheet Cake, Texas. As always, there’s an animal involved and one-eyed cat or OC is all feisty adorableness.
With the world renowned sheet cake festival looming around the corner, James is trying to get his brewery up and running, but taking all the responsibility on himself. He’s hired Winnie to help develop the website and social media aspects, but she has the talent for so much more. What happens when these two butt heads over everything from feral cats to the ins and outs of the Dark Horse Brewery? Can this boss and temp really work together? Sparks definitely fly between them with a pretty intense attraction.
James is the grumpy hero you really want to love. He struggles with social anxiety, letting his guard down, self doubt, and trusting others. He’s definitely not a people person, though he cares deeply for those he loves. He comes across as stern and grumpy. Winnie is his total opposite. She’s bubbly, got a 50’s chic style going on, and is brilliant at deciphering others and their needs. She’s the yin to James’ yang. But Winnie has her own quirks, she desperately seeks others’ approval and since she’s so good at deciphering others’ needs and potential, she can push too hard. I loved the way she was able to see past James’ grumpy exterior to the caring person underneath.
There were several moments in this story that brought me to tears. I could relate in small ways to James. It’s easy to hide in the shadows and hard to put yourself out there. The author does a fabulous job letting the reader see inside James’ head and knowing how difficult expressing himself can be. I could also relate to first child syndrome where you feel responsible for everything.
I loved Winnie’s personality. She doesn’t let James walk all over her, but at the same time, she understands his varying levels of grumpiness and really “gets” him. I loved the pool & elevator scenes, sharing a room, the Graham family dynamics, Feastivus, and the tiny seed James carries with him. James’ family and Chevy are great side characters in this one and it was fun catching up with them. I also enjoyed new character Kyoko and look forward to getting to know her better. I’m excited to read Val and Chevy’s story!
Highly recommend to romcom and contemporary fans! Though it’s the second book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. There’s some mild innuendo and passionate kissing. Thanks to the author for the advanced complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Grump/sunshine and enemies to lovers tropes are two favorites and Emma St. Clair really delivers the perfect balance in this second book in the Graham Brothers series. It’s an engaging romcom with plenty of humor, sweet romance, and those heartfelt moments that really tug at your heartstrings. While the first book in the series is still my favorite, I loved James’ and Winnie’s story and returning to the quirky town of Sheet Cake, Texas. As always, there’s an animal involved and one-eyed cat or OC is all feisty adorableness.
With the world renowned sheet cake festival looming around the corner, James is trying to get his brewery up and running, but taking all the responsibility on himself. He’s hired Winnie to help develop the website and social media aspects, but she has the talent for so much more. What happens when these two butt heads over everything from feral cats to the ins and outs of the Dark Horse Brewery? Can this boss and temp really work together? Sparks definitely fly between them with a pretty intense attraction.
James is the grumpy hero you really want to love. He struggles with social anxiety, letting his guard down, self doubt, and trusting others. He’s definitely not a people person, though he cares deeply for those he loves. He comes across as stern and grumpy. Winnie is his total opposite. She’s bubbly, got a 50’s chic style going on, and is brilliant at deciphering others and their needs. She’s the yin to James’ yang. But Winnie has her own quirks, she desperately seeks others’ approval and since she’s so good at deciphering others’ needs and potential, she can push too hard. I loved the way she was able to see past James’ grumpy exterior to the caring person underneath.
There were several moments in this story that brought me to tears. I could relate in small ways to James. It’s easy to hide in the shadows and hard to put yourself out there. The author does a fabulous job letting the reader see inside James’ head and knowing how difficult expressing himself can be. I could also relate to first child syndrome where you feel responsible for everything.
I loved Winnie’s personality. She doesn’t let James walk all over her, but at the same time, she understands his varying levels of grumpiness and really “gets” him. I loved the pool & elevator scenes, sharing a room, the Graham family dynamics, Feastivus, and the tiny seed James carries with him. James’ family and Chevy are great side characters in this one and it was fun catching up with them. I also enjoyed new character Kyoko and look forward to getting to know her better. I’m excited to read Val and Chevy’s story!
Highly recommend to romcom and contemporary fans! Though it’s the second book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. There’s some mild innuendo and passionate kissing. Thanks to the author for the advanced complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
August 31, 2022
It is SO GOOD to be back in Sheet Cake, Texas!
I have been ready for this book to come out since The Buy-In came out 😂
I mean enemies to lovers is my JAAAAAMMM!
And Winnie and James serve up that trope so good!
Winnie was awesome! I would love for her to be my best friend. She is a blonde, blue eyed, tattooed, high ponytailed, poker playing, jalapeño margarita making, 50’s pin up, QUEEN!
I loved her snark and humor and how she challenged James! Also, the glasses representation was great to me, a fellow glasses wearer. When Winnie chucked them off her face in the elevator, I felt that. 😂
James was…. Woah. 😍🥵
Just woooaaahhh! What a gorgeous, growly man! I related to his distaste for social events and just getting peopled out. I can be the same way. I also tend to blow up when highly stressed out like James does a couple times… So it was hard for me to get too too mad at him. 😂🫢
Gosh, you guys… the romance, the tension, the banter, the kissing…
Emma really said, “Hold my beer!” (Haha get it? 🤓) That elevator scene absolutely killed me. I had to read it twice! And, I never reread scenes immediately like that.
Now I’m going to wait in anxious anticipation for Val & Chevy’s story! I’m really excited for it!
Now for some of my favorite parts:
The seed ❤️
Chevy and his brotherly duty talk with James
Collin (can’t wait to see more of him! 😍)
The text threads 💬
The poker game
Jealous James
Neighborly
Kyoko (Is she going to get someone? Collin?)
The Elevator 🛗 😘
“Then let me take care of you.” *swoons*
Watching Tik Toks together
After Winnie’s nightmare
Dale and balloons…
“Get on the bike, temp.”
The Orange Cyclops aka OC
Feastivus 😂
Pat and the dumpster
The entire end!
+ Val & Chevy teaser!
I have been ready for this book to come out since The Buy-In came out 😂
I mean enemies to lovers is my JAAAAAMMM!
And Winnie and James serve up that trope so good!
Winnie was awesome! I would love for her to be my best friend. She is a blonde, blue eyed, tattooed, high ponytailed, poker playing, jalapeño margarita making, 50’s pin up, QUEEN!
I loved her snark and humor and how she challenged James! Also, the glasses representation was great to me, a fellow glasses wearer. When Winnie chucked them off her face in the elevator, I felt that. 😂
James was…. Woah. 😍🥵
Just woooaaahhh! What a gorgeous, growly man! I related to his distaste for social events and just getting peopled out. I can be the same way. I also tend to blow up when highly stressed out like James does a couple times… So it was hard for me to get too too mad at him. 😂🫢
Gosh, you guys… the romance, the tension, the banter, the kissing…
Emma really said, “Hold my beer!” (Haha get it? 🤓) That elevator scene absolutely killed me. I had to read it twice! And, I never reread scenes immediately like that.
Now I’m going to wait in anxious anticipation for Val & Chevy’s story! I’m really excited for it!
Now for some of my favorite parts:
The seed ❤️
Chevy and his brotherly duty talk with James
Collin (can’t wait to see more of him! 😍)
The text threads 💬
The poker game
Jealous James
Neighborly
Kyoko (Is she going to get someone? Collin?)
The Elevator 🛗 😘
“Then let me take care of you.” *swoons*
Watching Tik Toks together
After Winnie’s nightmare
Dale and balloons…
“Get on the bike, temp.”
The Orange Cyclops aka OC
Feastivus 😂
Pat and the dumpster
The entire end!
+ Val & Chevy teaser!
June 14, 2022
Can Emma St. Clair write a bad book? No. No, she cannot.
This book was everything I had hoped for and more! I absolutely loved the banter between James and Winnie...even when James's response was only a grunt or a growl, Winnie just kept giving it to him. Their dynamics are really fun to watch and they balanced each other out so perfectly!
Also, I fall a little more in love with Sheet Cake and the Grahams every time I read a book featuring them. I loved seeing more of Chevy and can't wait for his and Val's book!! Getting to see glimpses of Lindy, Pat, and JoJo made this book so much sweeter.
I will say that the first half of this book while having the full-on banter, doesn't have as much slapstick comedy as some of the Love Cliche books. But...it comes. And when it does...you'll be laughing so hard.
Also, Harper talking to James? It was a beautiful moment of family supporting and taking care of one another. There's just so much I could say about this book, but you know...spoilers.
Five stars. Clean. Closed-door. Chemistry for days. Grand gestures (as much as grumbly James can do). Cats. Turkeys. Dogs. Grumpy boss. HEA. Family pranks. And so much more!
This book was everything I had hoped for and more! I absolutely loved the banter between James and Winnie...even when James's response was only a grunt or a growl, Winnie just kept giving it to him. Their dynamics are really fun to watch and they balanced each other out so perfectly!
Also, I fall a little more in love with Sheet Cake and the Grahams every time I read a book featuring them. I loved seeing more of Chevy and can't wait for his and Val's book!! Getting to see glimpses of Lindy, Pat, and JoJo made this book so much sweeter.
I will say that the first half of this book while having the full-on banter, doesn't have as much slapstick comedy as some of the Love Cliche books. But...it comes. And when it does...you'll be laughing so hard.
Also, Harper talking to James? It was a beautiful moment of family supporting and taking care of one another. There's just so much I could say about this book, but you know...spoilers.
Five stars. Clean. Closed-door. Chemistry for days. Grand gestures (as much as grumbly James can do). Cats. Turkeys. Dogs. Grumpy boss. HEA. Family pranks. And so much more!
June 20, 2023
4 ⭐lots of humor! Small town Romance. Winnie wants to help James to have a successful brewery opening and website. James is not a people person. sometimes she has annoying moments, like when she thinks she knows what's best for James.
June 23, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: death of a parent mentioned, anxiety, cheating (side characters)
James Graham is ready to start work on his craft brewery and tasting room in the small town of Sheet Cake, Texas. Dark Horse Brewery is one of his passions, so he should be excited about finally expanding outside of the garage setup he currently uses. Unfortunately, James is overwhelmed with all the planning required to get the brewery up and running in just a matter of months. That's where Winnie Boyd comes in. After losing her previous job and having the skills James needs to build a website for his brewery, she should be a perfect fit as an employee. But Winnie pushes all of James's buttons- like trying to get him to delegate tasks to her and involving his family in the planning process. And even more infuriating? The fact that he can't stop thinking about kissing her smart mouth. Has this grumpy, alpha male finally met his match?
While cinnamon roll heroes will always make me swoon, I have quite the obsession with a bossy, alpha male who is only soft for the woman he loves. James Graham was the hottest grump ever, and I could not get enough of him and his chemistry with Winnie. These two were on fire! While we got some small moments of tension between them in the beginning, the real heat came when they went to the craft brewing expo. James being possessive and stopping someone from hitting on Winnie? Hot! James cornering Winnie for a steamy elevator kiss? Scorching! James comforting Winnie and snuggling her in bed? Swoon! This man was making me weak, and I could not get enough. Winnie was the perfect match for him. Not only could she match his grumpiness with her sassy comebacks, but she also recognized when he was getting overwhelmed by anxiety or was too stubborn to admit he needed help. James and Winnie both had past trauma from losing their parents and therefore were afraid to love someone completely. I loved seeing them both take a risk and go all in with each other. I was left squealing in anticipation of the next book and am looking forward to getting some more of these two as we read about Winnie's brother finding love with his sister's best friend!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: death of a parent mentioned, anxiety, cheating (side characters)
James Graham is ready to start work on his craft brewery and tasting room in the small town of Sheet Cake, Texas. Dark Horse Brewery is one of his passions, so he should be excited about finally expanding outside of the garage setup he currently uses. Unfortunately, James is overwhelmed with all the planning required to get the brewery up and running in just a matter of months. That's where Winnie Boyd comes in. After losing her previous job and having the skills James needs to build a website for his brewery, she should be a perfect fit as an employee. But Winnie pushes all of James's buttons- like trying to get him to delegate tasks to her and involving his family in the planning process. And even more infuriating? The fact that he can't stop thinking about kissing her smart mouth. Has this grumpy, alpha male finally met his match?
While cinnamon roll heroes will always make me swoon, I have quite the obsession with a bossy, alpha male who is only soft for the woman he loves. James Graham was the hottest grump ever, and I could not get enough of him and his chemistry with Winnie. These two were on fire! While we got some small moments of tension between them in the beginning, the real heat came when they went to the craft brewing expo. James being possessive and stopping someone from hitting on Winnie? Hot! James cornering Winnie for a steamy elevator kiss? Scorching! James comforting Winnie and snuggling her in bed? Swoon! This man was making me weak, and I could not get enough. Winnie was the perfect match for him. Not only could she match his grumpiness with her sassy comebacks, but she also recognized when he was getting overwhelmed by anxiety or was too stubborn to admit he needed help. James and Winnie both had past trauma from losing their parents and therefore were afraid to love someone completely. I loved seeing them both take a risk and go all in with each other. I was left squealing in anticipation of the next book and am looking forward to getting some more of these two as we read about Winnie's brother finding love with his sister's best friend!
March 4, 2023
4⭐️
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June 27, 2022
“𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫. 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝐢𝐭.” 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭, 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭. “𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐯𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞.”
First page in and I’m already obsessed 😭
I’m sooooo glad we get to see his feelings first lol
This slow burn is going to kill me, I already know it
I’m literally just highlighting everything and I’m still on chapter one
The amount of love I have for these two is unhealthy 😂
I’m relating to James a lot tbh, must be the older sibling thing
“Boss”
Val is so wholesome 💗
I love that it’s his birthdayyyyy!!
And now I’m sad that it’s his birthdayyyy 😭
The convo between him and Chevy is GOLD
Every time he calls Jo “little one” my heart just can’ttttt
His work gloves 👀
HE FULL-NAMED HER 😱😱😱
The neighborly app!!
James is too much in the best way possible
HIS WORK GLOVES (because I bet you didn’t know dirty work gloves could be hot)
The tension between these two is OFF THE CHARTSSSSS
Chevy is a breath of fresh air and I love his dynamics with everyoneeeee
Ohhhh the plot thickens!
TEXT THREAD 💗😍
Broooooo, he notices EVERYTHING about her and I freaking LOVE IT
And just like that, shuffling cards is sexy
These two are nerds about drinks and it’s so cute lol
Tank ❤️
Laptop wrestling!
James 🤦♀️
One question a dayyyyy
Hands, in a hot but innocent way lol
The text threads are giving me LIFE
GO PACK
One bed, one bed, ONEEEE BEDDDD
I approve of his reaction toward Carl
JAMES COULD PUT HIS ARM AROUND ME AND I WOULD BE THRIVING
Buttonssssss!!
I also approve of his reaction toward Daniel
Elevator, that is all
*Winnie is not a regret. She could never be.*
ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL TEXT THREAD
HE CALLED IT “our room” shut upppppp
Oh my goshhhhh, he’s so into her and I can’t takeeeee it!! 😍😭
Everything just keeps getting better and better which has me happy and worried...
Well that was part of the bad
BUT BODY WASH
I’m just—I can’t even
My notes are so long already lol, just know I’m enjoying the heck out of this book
Winnie, nooooooo
So many emotions and my heart isn’t ready for this to end
Romance and cats
I highlighted like the whole entire epilogue 💀
Another great book by Emma!!
Can’t wait to read moreeeee
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: loss of parents, cheating (not the main characters), anxiety and sensory overload, side characters that tried to get too comfortable with the MC (Winnie)
First page in and I’m already obsessed 😭
I’m sooooo glad we get to see his feelings first lol
This slow burn is going to kill me, I already know it
I’m literally just highlighting everything and I’m still on chapter one
The amount of love I have for these two is unhealthy 😂
I’m relating to James a lot tbh, must be the older sibling thing
“Boss”
Val is so wholesome 💗
I love that it’s his birthdayyyyy!!
And now I’m sad that it’s his birthdayyyy 😭
The convo between him and Chevy is GOLD
Every time he calls Jo “little one” my heart just can’ttttt
His work gloves 👀
HE FULL-NAMED HER 😱😱😱
The neighborly app!!
James is too much in the best way possible
HIS WORK GLOVES (because I bet you didn’t know dirty work gloves could be hot)
The tension between these two is OFF THE CHARTSSSSS
Chevy is a breath of fresh air and I love his dynamics with everyoneeeee
Ohhhh the plot thickens!
TEXT THREAD 💗😍
Broooooo, he notices EVERYTHING about her and I freaking LOVE IT
And just like that, shuffling cards is sexy
These two are nerds about drinks and it’s so cute lol
Tank ❤️
Laptop wrestling!
James 🤦♀️
One question a dayyyyy
Hands, in a hot but innocent way lol
The text threads are giving me LIFE
GO PACK
One bed, one bed, ONEEEE BEDDDD
I approve of his reaction toward Carl
JAMES COULD PUT HIS ARM AROUND ME AND I WOULD BE THRIVING
Buttonssssss!!
I also approve of his reaction toward Daniel
Elevator, that is all
*Winnie is not a regret. She could never be.*
ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL TEXT THREAD
HE CALLED IT “our room” shut upppppp
Oh my goshhhhh, he’s so into her and I can’t takeeeee it!! 😍😭
Everything just keeps getting better and better which has me happy and worried...
Well that was part of the bad
BUT BODY WASH
I’m just—I can’t even
My notes are so long already lol, just know I’m enjoying the heck out of this book
Winnie, nooooooo
So many emotions and my heart isn’t ready for this to end
Romance and cats
I highlighted like the whole entire epilogue 💀
Another great book by Emma!!
Can’t wait to read moreeeee
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: loss of parents, cheating (not the main characters), anxiety and sensory overload, side characters that tried to get too comfortable with the MC (Winnie)
June 23, 2022
2/2.5 stars - so like 2.25 stars?
It was ok, i enjoyed it I guess but like I don’t know there were just some things that I didn’t like.
I feel like there were a lot of unresolved issues and shallow plot lines that should’ve been fully cleared up. Like the whole time I was reading in James’ perspective and he kept being over stimulated, overwhelmed to like a non-verbal point, he would or any character would have the realisation that he’s neurodivergent and has these anger issues from things being too much. But it just ended in him resolving this by finally telling his family that he can’t take care of everything anymore. I feel like he could’ve used a therapy plot line.
I feel like the author turned up the grumpy trope a bit too far to the point where he was just outright rude and wasn’t ever really resolved between the protagonists. There should’ve been a scene where he told Winnie about how and why he gets so tense and angry from certain things considering that was his whole personality and the cause of the conflict. Instead the big blowout happens without her and it’s never really discussed. I just think it would’ve been better if there was a scene like that where we could see this moment of understanding between the main characters which would help her fall in love with him more or at least better understand him and his moods. Because if I met a man like that I would just think he’s rude unless I totally observed him in crowds and whatever and he told me about how he processes differently and has social anxiety.
Oh yeah, that’s right he has social anxiety - which is totally normal but like I feel like if Winnie understood more fully his social anxiety then it would’ve been better. But now I’m thinking about how the main conflict for him is that he feels like he has to do everything himself and take care of everything alone and now he wants to succeed in this massive venture but is being crushed by the expectations and anxiety and stress of not being able to do it. I don’t know. I just think that his “grumpiness” could’ve been toned down and maybe actually throughout the book seen being softened so that he doesn’t just come across as rude as hell. I just don’t think I wanted to engage with him as an MC bc of his attitude but his inner monologue helped bc we could see that he was struggling and had many internal issues but I personally think they were never resolved.
My other grievance was that Winchester and Chevy (full name Chevrolet????) were named after a gun and a car. That’s so American and like bad names.
It was ok, i enjoyed it I guess but like I don’t know there were just some things that I didn’t like.
I feel like there were a lot of unresolved issues and shallow plot lines that should’ve been fully cleared up. Like the whole time I was reading in James’ perspective and he kept being over stimulated, overwhelmed to like a non-verbal point, he would or any character would have the realisation that he’s neurodivergent and has these anger issues from things being too much. But it just ended in him resolving this by finally telling his family that he can’t take care of everything anymore. I feel like he could’ve used a therapy plot line.
I feel like the author turned up the grumpy trope a bit too far to the point where he was just outright rude and wasn’t ever really resolved between the protagonists. There should’ve been a scene where he told Winnie about how and why he gets so tense and angry from certain things considering that was his whole personality and the cause of the conflict. Instead the big blowout happens without her and it’s never really discussed. I just think it would’ve been better if there was a scene like that where we could see this moment of understanding between the main characters which would help her fall in love with him more or at least better understand him and his moods. Because if I met a man like that I would just think he’s rude unless I totally observed him in crowds and whatever and he told me about how he processes differently and has social anxiety.
Oh yeah, that’s right he has social anxiety - which is totally normal but like I feel like if Winnie understood more fully his social anxiety then it would’ve been better. But now I’m thinking about how the main conflict for him is that he feels like he has to do everything himself and take care of everything alone and now he wants to succeed in this massive venture but is being crushed by the expectations and anxiety and stress of not being able to do it. I don’t know. I just think that his “grumpiness” could’ve been toned down and maybe actually throughout the book seen being softened so that he doesn’t just come across as rude as hell. I just don’t think I wanted to engage with him as an MC bc of his attitude but his inner monologue helped bc we could see that he was struggling and had many internal issues but I personally think they were never resolved.
My other grievance was that Winchester and Chevy (full name Chevrolet????) were named after a gun and a car. That’s so American and like bad names.
August 22, 2022
Thank you so much to Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
And honest it will be. The suggestions for ARC reviewers is to lead with the good stuff but I can't think of any to lead with. There isn't anything good about this book and I don't write that to be hateful. The writing is as if it came straight from watpad or whatever that low-key porn sight for teenage girls is. The MMC is written not as grumpy but as actually emotionally abusive. I thought it was going to be revealed that he was autistic and that was why he had such aggressive and unacceptable rage outbursts. If this man was dating a friend of mine I would sit her down to talk because I would fear for her safety. This is not a 'grumpy' character. This is a deeply irredeemable character that never should have been written that way. The author REALLY leaned into the cheesy writing and that can be fun but if you took a shot every time they mentioned 'bluffing' in this book (because it's the name of the book- get it??) then you would be drunk by the end of it. I also kept thinking 'ok maybe all this horrible treatment will be worth it because the steam will be the steamiest steam to ever steam' AND IT LITERALLY NEVER STEAMED. YOU HAD THE ONE ROOM TROPE AND NO STEAM??? That was a bigger let down than I care to admit. I am not attached to a single character in this book and that is honestly a pretty impressive accomplishment since there is almost always some random character I cling to to get me through but nope- not this time.
It also felt like the author just kept adding stuff to see what would stick- cheating boyfriend- check. one room trope? check. quirky family dynamics? check. misunderstood best friend? check. and by the end of it it was too much because nothing ever got enough.
And honest it will be. The suggestions for ARC reviewers is to lead with the good stuff but I can't think of any to lead with. There isn't anything good about this book and I don't write that to be hateful. The writing is as if it came straight from watpad or whatever that low-key porn sight for teenage girls is. The MMC is written not as grumpy but as actually emotionally abusive. I thought it was going to be revealed that he was autistic and that was why he had such aggressive and unacceptable rage outbursts. If this man was dating a friend of mine I would sit her down to talk because I would fear for her safety. This is not a 'grumpy' character. This is a deeply irredeemable character that never should have been written that way. The author REALLY leaned into the cheesy writing and that can be fun but if you took a shot every time they mentioned 'bluffing' in this book (because it's the name of the book- get it??) then you would be drunk by the end of it. I also kept thinking 'ok maybe all this horrible treatment will be worth it because the steam will be the steamiest steam to ever steam' AND IT LITERALLY NEVER STEAMED. YOU HAD THE ONE ROOM TROPE AND NO STEAM??? That was a bigger let down than I care to admit. I am not attached to a single character in this book and that is honestly a pretty impressive accomplishment since there is almost always some random character I cling to to get me through but nope- not this time.
It also felt like the author just kept adding stuff to see what would stick- cheating boyfriend- check. one room trope? check. quirky family dynamics? check. misunderstood best friend? check. and by the end of it it was too much because nothing ever got enough.
June 23, 2022
Can you ever really read enough romantic comedies? I would answer no, especially if they’re written by Emma St Clair! I loved everything about this book!
James is the Graham brother in this book. I thought the author did a great job really letting the reader see inside his head. James doesn’t do well around a lot of people, especially for a long amount of time. And sometimes he just explodes. I loved the pool scene. You’re just going to have to read it to see why.
Winnie is a Sheeter. She’s working for James as a temporary employee while she tries to figure out what to do next. But James is a huge grump and he really seems to dislike Winnie. And she has figured out how to push his buttons and sometimes she just doesn’t know when to stop. Between the two of them, it’s an explosive situation.
The romance in this one is so well done! I loved so many things about it. There are so many great scenes. I can’t wait to read more of this series!
Do yourself a favor and grab this one!
James is the Graham brother in this book. I thought the author did a great job really letting the reader see inside his head. James doesn’t do well around a lot of people, especially for a long amount of time. And sometimes he just explodes. I loved the pool scene. You’re just going to have to read it to see why.
Winnie is a Sheeter. She’s working for James as a temporary employee while she tries to figure out what to do next. But James is a huge grump and he really seems to dislike Winnie. And she has figured out how to push his buttons and sometimes she just doesn’t know when to stop. Between the two of them, it’s an explosive situation.
The romance in this one is so well done! I loved so many things about it. There are so many great scenes. I can’t wait to read more of this series!
Do yourself a favor and grab this one!
June 14, 2022
so freaking good
Easily rivals Harper’s book for my favorite Emma St. Clair ever! The chemistry is off the charts, and the way these two have so much brewing (haha!) under the surface, plus the emotional tug of war and, well, all the things… My happy book high isn’t letting me be very eloquent or articulate at the moment. But if grumps are your thing, then you’ll love this.
Easily rivals Harper’s book for my favorite Emma St. Clair ever! The chemistry is off the charts, and the way these two have so much brewing (haha!) under the surface, plus the emotional tug of war and, well, all the things… My happy book high isn’t letting me be very eloquent or articulate at the moment. But if grumps are your thing, then you’ll love this.
June 29, 2022
Very likable MC trying to forge a relationship with a troubled man. James is a decent guy but his anxiety is off the charts. The dude needs therapy and perhaps some medication. I don't like that it seems like his issues are resolved with one open talk with his family and the love of a good woman.
June 13, 2022
(4.5 stars) - Frenemy fun!
I have to say, I have a son who has dyspraxia & James totally sounds like he's on the spectrum like his sister Harper - a level of social anxiety mixed with some form of praxic dysfunction. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but it's true to life because it's common in families with a member on the spectrum to have parents or siblings who also have spectrum symptoms or characteristics.
I love how Winnie figures out that James has different kinds & levels of grumpy and what they mean. I also totally understand when she loses patience with him; it's truly challenging even when you know what's going on (my son's neurologist compared it to a stutter, but it's inside the brain instead of at the level of the mouth)
I like Kyoko & hope she gets her own Sheet Cake romance, too.
AND I'm amused that the author managed to squeeze alligators into the story again, lol
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
I have to say, I have a son who has dyspraxia & James totally sounds like he's on the spectrum like his sister Harper - a level of social anxiety mixed with some form of praxic dysfunction. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but it's true to life because it's common in families with a member on the spectrum to have parents or siblings who also have spectrum symptoms or characteristics.
I love how Winnie figures out that James has different kinds & levels of grumpy and what they mean. I also totally understand when she loses patience with him; it's truly challenging even when you know what's going on (my son's neurologist compared it to a stutter, but it's inside the brain instead of at the level of the mouth)
I like Kyoko & hope she gets her own Sheet Cake romance, too.
AND I'm amused that the author managed to squeeze alligators into the story again, lol
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
July 18, 2022
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. I might like this more than the first. Emma, you have done it again!
THIS is what I call enemies to lovers. Fresh characters with unique personalities that just click together. Many enemies-to-lovers tropes feel a bit unrealistic to me, but Emma executed Winnie and James’ story perfectly. These characters are fun, smart, hilarious, and have great depth. And I can’t count all the smiles and laughs and late nights this novel got out of me.
I love that Emma makes you smile while also taking a deeper journey into what it takes to love someone deeply. Both of these characters have struggles that are so relatable and vulnerable. I found myself relating to each character.
I declare this my new top favorite romcom series.
Clean/closed door romance!
THIS is what I call enemies to lovers. Fresh characters with unique personalities that just click together. Many enemies-to-lovers tropes feel a bit unrealistic to me, but Emma executed Winnie and James’ story perfectly. These characters are fun, smart, hilarious, and have great depth. And I can’t count all the smiles and laughs and late nights this novel got out of me.
I love that Emma makes you smile while also taking a deeper journey into what it takes to love someone deeply. Both of these characters have struggles that are so relatable and vulnerable. I found myself relating to each character.
I declare this my new top favorite romcom series.
Clean/closed door romance!
July 31, 2023
Another stellar read by Emma!
James is an adorable idiot. But also he does dark and brooding in a not toxic way, which we love.
Winnie is the sass queen! But she’s also soft and vulnerable and I love her dearly.
Just so fun and perfect!
Five out of five!
James is an adorable idiot. But also he does dark and brooding in a not toxic way, which we love.
Winnie is the sass queen! But she’s also soft and vulnerable and I love her dearly.
Just so fun and perfect!
Five out of five!
July 9, 2022
Loved this book so much! Loved James and Winnie. James was sometimes over the top grumpy but loved the dynamic and the elevator kiss was the best!! Love the Grahams and all their personalities. I loved being able to just get lost in the town of Sheet Cake again! Give me all the sheet cake rom coms!!
Tw: death of parents, mentions of infidelity of a spouse/partner
Tw: death of parents, mentions of infidelity of a spouse/partner
June 13, 2022
Whelp, she did it again.
Emma St. Clair took my heart to Sheet Cake, Texas, and made me want to set up house for generations.
I was worried that I wouldn't fully enjoy this book because it is about a brewery and I've never been into alcohol. I was relieved that even though my life is completely different from Winnie's and James', I could still relate to their characters and that the winery lingo wasn't too far over my head.
I'm not a huge fan of the "grumpy/sunshine" trope, but I enjoyed James's grumpy because I felt that I knew the reasons behind it. Also, Winnie's "sunshine" was more of a "snarkshine" which is much more my style. I loved the way she would poke and prod at James to get reactions out of him, and The Office references were on point.
Thanks to Emma for a surprise ARC that cost me three extra hours of sleep I don't regret giving up. All opinions are my own.
Emma St. Clair took my heart to Sheet Cake, Texas, and made me want to set up house for generations.
I was worried that I wouldn't fully enjoy this book because it is about a brewery and I've never been into alcohol. I was relieved that even though my life is completely different from Winnie's and James', I could still relate to their characters and that the winery lingo wasn't too far over my head.
I'm not a huge fan of the "grumpy/sunshine" trope, but I enjoyed James's grumpy because I felt that I knew the reasons behind it. Also, Winnie's "sunshine" was more of a "snarkshine" which is much more my style. I loved the way she would poke and prod at James to get reactions out of him, and The Office references were on point.
Thanks to Emma for a surprise ARC that cost me three extra hours of sleep I don't regret giving up. All opinions are my own.
February 15, 2023
Thank you to the author for an eARC, audiobook, and copy!
Reread February 2023: THIS BOOK THOUGH. The audiobook was amazing. I looooved these narrators. Made me fall in the love with Winnie and James even more.
I LOVED THIS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Oh wow does Emma St. Clair never disappoint.
Let’s run a small list of things you can find in The Bluff:
- Grump x Sunshine
- One bed (but keep it sweet)
- Beer conventions in Austin, TX
- Taking care of someone after a nightmare
- Major groveling
- Dealing with loss of a parent (off page, in past)
- ELEVATOR MAKE-OUTS + all the other swoony kisses
I love the way these closed door romances are written. They are sizzling while keeping the spice away. Another reason to give these types of romances a chance.
I absolutely LOVED Winnie and James. There banter was perfect. The chemistry, off the charts. And the raw way they learned to speak to one another made my heart want to burst. An undeniable connection (but with out being insta-love) from the beginning, I could NOT get enough of these two. Gimme more.
The plot moved steadily and it was filled with plenty of forced proximity, but also, necessary time apart. I liked the character growth on both sides (but especially James). I’m obsessed with anything St. Clair writes and this was another hit. My current fav of this series.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: make-outs
- Trigger/Content Warnings: depictions of anxiety, grief
Reread February 2023: THIS BOOK THOUGH. The audiobook was amazing. I looooved these narrators. Made me fall in the love with Winnie and James even more.
I LOVED THIS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Oh wow does Emma St. Clair never disappoint.
Let’s run a small list of things you can find in The Bluff:
- Grump x Sunshine
- One bed (but keep it sweet)
- Beer conventions in Austin, TX
- Taking care of someone after a nightmare
- Major groveling
- Dealing with loss of a parent (off page, in past)
- ELEVATOR MAKE-OUTS + all the other swoony kisses
I love the way these closed door romances are written. They are sizzling while keeping the spice away. Another reason to give these types of romances a chance.
I absolutely LOVED Winnie and James. There banter was perfect. The chemistry, off the charts. And the raw way they learned to speak to one another made my heart want to burst. An undeniable connection (but with out being insta-love) from the beginning, I could NOT get enough of these two. Gimme more.
The plot moved steadily and it was filled with plenty of forced proximity, but also, necessary time apart. I liked the character growth on both sides (but especially James). I’m obsessed with anything St. Clair writes and this was another hit. My current fav of this series.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: make-outs
- Trigger/Content Warnings: depictions of anxiety, grief
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