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The Oakwood Park Girls #1
The Grump
The Grump is Book one of the Oakwood Park Girls Series. A slow-burn, neighbors-to-lovers, single-dad, age-gap romance about a two broken people that find love in the most unexpected place - right next door.
Tessa
Do you ever wonder what you are doing in life? Have you ever gotten to that point where you ask yourself, “Is this really it? This is the rest of my life?” Sometimes it feels like every day is a monotonous song on repeat with no hope in sight.
Then, out of nowhere, a moving truck shows up and a hot, blonde God with bright blue eyes and his quiet young daughter get out and turn my frown upside down. At least until I find out that he is a grump. The sadness radiating off of both of them is palpable and even though I know I should keep my distance, I just want to help.
It's like they always say: Sometimes the best way to cheer up is to cheer someone else up.
Levi
Sadness like ours isn’t easily controlled. It hits harder when you think everything is perfect and then misery becomes second nature in a split second. I moved across the state with my daughter, Phoebe, to escape the stares, gossip and pitying looks of our old life and get a fresh start.
When the beautiful, quirky neighbor shows up and makes my heart stutter for the first time in years, I try to fight it. She’s just too happy, too friendly, and way too young for me. Unfortunately, my daughter adores her, and I have no choice but to let her bond with the smoking-hot girl that her dad shouldn't be lusting after, silently wishing for the same connection. When I realize that there is more to her than the bubbly surface she presents, I begin to hope again.
Phoebe wants me to have a happy ending, but is it too late for that?
Warnings:
18+ Romance
Contains strong language and scenes and subject matter that may be sensitive to some readers.
Please Read Responsibly
This is a Realistic Romance. Everyday people, everyday struggles, with once in a lifetime connections.
Tessa
Do you ever wonder what you are doing in life? Have you ever gotten to that point where you ask yourself, “Is this really it? This is the rest of my life?” Sometimes it feels like every day is a monotonous song on repeat with no hope in sight.
Then, out of nowhere, a moving truck shows up and a hot, blonde God with bright blue eyes and his quiet young daughter get out and turn my frown upside down. At least until I find out that he is a grump. The sadness radiating off of both of them is palpable and even though I know I should keep my distance, I just want to help.
It's like they always say: Sometimes the best way to cheer up is to cheer someone else up.
Levi
Sadness like ours isn’t easily controlled. It hits harder when you think everything is perfect and then misery becomes second nature in a split second. I moved across the state with my daughter, Phoebe, to escape the stares, gossip and pitying looks of our old life and get a fresh start.
When the beautiful, quirky neighbor shows up and makes my heart stutter for the first time in years, I try to fight it. She’s just too happy, too friendly, and way too young for me. Unfortunately, my daughter adores her, and I have no choice but to let her bond with the smoking-hot girl that her dad shouldn't be lusting after, silently wishing for the same connection. When I realize that there is more to her than the bubbly surface she presents, I begin to hope again.
Phoebe wants me to have a happy ending, but is it too late for that?
Warnings:
18+ Romance
Contains strong language and scenes and subject matter that may be sensitive to some readers.
Please Read Responsibly
This is a Realistic Romance. Everyday people, everyday struggles, with once in a lifetime connections.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2022
46 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Stevens
7 books25 followersVictoria Stevens believes in true love, soul mates, love at first sight, opposites attract, possessive alpha males, the strong, unique women that tame them, for better or worse, and happily ever afters.
An avid romance reader herself, after over a thousand books read under her belt, she decided to embark on a mission to write realistic romance anyone could relate to. Everyday people, everyday struggles, and once in a lifetime connections. She hopes that by doing so, she can inspire other people with hopes becoming an author to take charge, find their niche, and be brave.
Victoria Stevens lives in Texas with her middle-school sweetheart, two kids, two dogs, crazy cat, and two fish that refuse to die. She enjoys writing in-between her day job, momming, and binge-reading.
An avid romance reader herself, after over a thousand books read under her belt, she decided to embark on a mission to write realistic romance anyone could relate to. Everyday people, everyday struggles, and once in a lifetime connections. She hopes that by doing so, she can inspire other people with hopes becoming an author to take charge, find their niche, and be brave.
Victoria Stevens lives in Texas with her middle-school sweetheart, two kids, two dogs, crazy cat, and two fish that refuse to die. She enjoys writing in-between her day job, momming, and binge-reading.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 9, 2022
Levi moves in with his daughter Phoebe next door to Tess. His daughter is why and his priority as they are both still dealing with the death of his wife her mother. Neither of them have been dealing well and aren't letting anyone in. When they meet Tess at first there is a lot of rudeness to keep the distance but Tess' sweetness opens doors for all three of them as Tess is dealing with her own problems in silence. Her friends and mom are great support but the next door neighbor and sweet little girl makes her think things can change.
This was such a sweet book. I loved the relationship development for Levi and Tess but the sweet little Phoebe still the show. I wish it gave more of a ending but seeing how this is connected to the next book in this serious I think it's why it ended how it did but not in a bad way that would normally bother me. So this is the first book of the 4 friends. You get a little dose of all them without going in depth of other characters which I like as it focused on the couple the book is about which is how it should be. I often hate when books put too much of other peoples story or takes over and so you can't get a lot of the main characters. So I really enjoyed this but the little girl made me give it the extra star.
This was such a sweet book. I loved the relationship development for Levi and Tess but the sweet little Phoebe still the show. I wish it gave more of a ending but seeing how this is connected to the next book in this serious I think it's why it ended how it did but not in a bad way that would normally bother me. So this is the first book of the 4 friends. You get a little dose of all them without going in depth of other characters which I like as it focused on the couple the book is about which is how it should be. I often hate when books put too much of other peoples story or takes over and so you can't get a lot of the main characters. So I really enjoyed this but the little girl made me give it the extra star.
April 22, 2022
So sweet. Really.
It was like watching a plant bloom after a long winter. But with more emotion!
Some people have dream jobs. Good for them.
Some people have cute kids. Awww!
Some people have green fingers. Fantastic.
Some people have to deal with tragedy.
And sometimes, someone with all of the above also gets to fall in love.
It was like watching a plant bloom after a long winter. But with more emotion!
Some people have dream jobs. Good for them.
Some people have cute kids. Awww!
Some people have green fingers. Fantastic.
Some people have to deal with tragedy.
And sometimes, someone with all of the above also gets to fall in love.
July 31, 2022
Loved
I absolutely loved this. This story flows so well. I so happy that they found there happy ending. I can't wait for more.
I absolutely loved this. This story flows so well. I so happy that they found there happy ending. I can't wait for more.
March 10, 2024
Their relationship went from nothing to ‘I love you’ in no time? I liked the idea of the story but the execution was just not great.. The ending (the epilogue to be exact - those who read it will know what I mean) just made it way too unbelievable.
Also sorry HAHAHHA the women THROWING themselves at the hero was also SO fucking ridiculous. Just because a man is handsome doesn’t mean EVERY WOMAN will start flirting with him and propositioning him.. authors should really stop writing all women except the heroine as desperate mean fake girls.. have some respect for us women please!!! I’m sorry, I’m just really sensitive about the way some author depicts us women (especially a female author who should know how we are already treated in real life)
The only reason I’m giving this a 2⭐️ instead of a 1⭐️ is because of Phoebe, she was a cute kid. Beside the fact that her character changes made little to no sense (this kid has barely spoken for 2 years after her mother had passed but then magical starts talking after meeting Tessa? And asking if she can call her mommy after what..? 2-4 weeks of knowing her??? Yeah no.)
Apologies for my English, it’s not my first language but I always try my best to write to the best ability that I can :)
Also sorry HAHAHHA the women THROWING themselves at the hero was also SO fucking ridiculous. Just because a man is handsome doesn’t mean EVERY WOMAN will start flirting with him and propositioning him.. authors should really stop writing all women except the heroine as desperate mean fake girls.. have some respect for us women please!!! I’m sorry, I’m just really sensitive about the way some author depicts us women (especially a female author who should know how we are already treated in real life)
The only reason I’m giving this a 2⭐️ instead of a 1⭐️ is because of Phoebe, she was a cute kid. Beside the fact that her character changes made little to no sense (this kid has barely spoken for 2 years after her mother had passed but then magical starts talking after meeting Tessa? And asking if she can call her mommy after what..? 2-4 weeks of knowing her??? Yeah no.)
Apologies for my English, it’s not my first language but I always try my best to write to the best ability that I can :)
May 14, 2022
3.5 Stars Insta Love
Really good read. I just didn't like the short amount of time. I would have preferred that they spent months at odds or silently viewing one another instead of insta love especially with a kid involved. I still question their relationship after the fact. Liked the relationship with Phoebe and Tessa. That relationship too was instant.
I like the author and this is the 3rd book I have read. This so far was good but my least favorite for the reasons above.
Otherwise interesting read. Just not epic or something I would ever read again. It was just too quick and felt like it should have been just a bit more that connected maybe they thrown together after a few months at a school event, and again somewhere where he decided not to resist her.
His personality just completely flipped flopped after like 2 or 3 chapters. He could have recognized his daughters connection but stayed away longer until they were forced to be at same event or something.
Talented author, I would recommend!
Really good read. I just didn't like the short amount of time. I would have preferred that they spent months at odds or silently viewing one another instead of insta love especially with a kid involved. I still question their relationship after the fact. Liked the relationship with Phoebe and Tessa. That relationship too was instant.
I like the author and this is the 3rd book I have read. This so far was good but my least favorite for the reasons above.
Otherwise interesting read. Just not epic or something I would ever read again. It was just too quick and felt like it should have been just a bit more that connected maybe they thrown together after a few months at a school event, and again somewhere where he decided not to resist her.
His personality just completely flipped flopped after like 2 or 3 chapters. He could have recognized his daughters connection but stayed away longer until they were forced to be at same event or something.
Talented author, I would recommend!
November 6, 2022
Oakwood Park Girls Tess & Levi
This story is told from two viewpoints: Tess and Levi. Tess unfortunately has some medical problems and her boyfriend of 4 years drops her. Levi lost his wife, moved towns, has a daughter who barely speaks and wasn’t looking for love. Tess happens to be his quirky neighbor who has resolved that she’ll be alone until she’s old. Tess has a sweet personality reminding me of a sunflower, while I would say that Levi has a rain cloud following him around. Levi is very protective of his girls and is not afraid to shoo others away. I like how Tess is a children’s book author and just seems to understand people and especially kids. You will definitely get some sensual sex scenes in this book. I read this series a little out of order but wasn’t lost at any point. I sure love Phoebe’s character.
This story is told from two viewpoints: Tess and Levi. Tess unfortunately has some medical problems and her boyfriend of 4 years drops her. Levi lost his wife, moved towns, has a daughter who barely speaks and wasn’t looking for love. Tess happens to be his quirky neighbor who has resolved that she’ll be alone until she’s old. Tess has a sweet personality reminding me of a sunflower, while I would say that Levi has a rain cloud following him around. Levi is very protective of his girls and is not afraid to shoo others away. I like how Tess is a children’s book author and just seems to understand people and especially kids. You will definitely get some sensual sex scenes in this book. I read this series a little out of order but wasn’t lost at any point. I sure love Phoebe’s character.
November 15, 2024
this was like a super cute family/neighbourhood romance where the kid is absolutely the sweetest thing ever and they all live in a cute little bubble
this was definitely not plot based (which was a pity) because I really wanted to see more of their feelings on the past, and the future too.
overall, their relationship was pretty cute and all but it moved very fast, and was rather abrupt to begin with (although yes they had chemistry and again, super, super cute)
i was going to dnf at around 60% since i was hoping for an actual SLOW burn, but phoebe had me keeping on reading (shes too adorable)
this was definitely not plot based (which was a pity) because I really wanted to see more of their feelings on the past, and the future too.
overall, their relationship was pretty cute and all but it moved very fast, and was rather abrupt to begin with (although yes they had chemistry and again, super, super cute)
i was going to dnf at around 60% since i was hoping for an actual SLOW burn, but phoebe had me keeping on reading (shes too adorable)
September 21, 2022
This is a new author for me
I am super in love with this author I love the stories this is the 1st 1 in the oak park girls series it is realistic it is heartfelt And I cannot wait to read . This story deals with grief Finding love And excepting yourself Liam It's going through so much and when he meets It's beautiful neighbor in his daughter falls in love with her The story is Just so well done
I am super in love with this author I love the stories this is the 1st 1 in the oak park girls series it is realistic it is heartfelt And I cannot wait to read . This story deals with grief Finding love And excepting yourself Liam It's going through so much and when he meets It's beautiful neighbor in his daughter falls in love with her The story is Just so well done
November 2, 2022
Good story, well written.
This story is well written and realistic. From my own family drama, I can relate with the various family reactions to someone new in the widower’s and granddaughter’s life. It’s a story of grief and the effects on people, working through it to find hope and happiness and a new future. Good story.
This story is well written and realistic. From my own family drama, I can relate with the various family reactions to someone new in the widower’s and granddaughter’s life. It’s a story of grief and the effects on people, working through it to find hope and happiness and a new future. Good story.
September 25, 2024
Pretty decent series
2.5 for all
I liked the friendships between the girls but then its gets too over the top with the camaraderie and the better halfs also being best friends n all kinda too cheesy.
Also nothing great with the storylines and everyone being complementary to everyone and stuff so
okayy.
2.5 for all
I liked the friendships between the girls but then its gets too over the top with the camaraderie and the better halfs also being best friends n all kinda too cheesy.
Also nothing great with the storylines and everyone being complementary to everyone and stuff so
okayy.
October 29, 2022
This was the most beautiful story
I was close to tears reading this! I thought it was going to be Meg’s parents trying to take phoebe but i was wrong. This story came together beautifully! Tess and Levi deserve all the happiness!
I was close to tears reading this! I thought it was going to be Meg’s parents trying to take phoebe but i was wrong. This story came together beautifully! Tess and Levi deserve all the happiness!
June 29, 2022
Sweet love story
I like that this book has a sweet live story, I really like HEA but, I was hoping for something a little different. This was a great book though and definitely recommend.
I like that this book has a sweet live story, I really like HEA but, I was hoping for something a little different. This was a great book though and definitely recommend.
September 22, 2022
One of my favorite grumpy / sunshine romances with a age gap between neighbors. It is definitely a good read!
Want to Read
October 25, 2022🎁 The Complete Series is FREE on Amazon today (10/25/2022)! 🎁
November 6, 2022
New to me
Victoria is a new author to me but what a fun sweet read. I love how the story is told from two view points.
Victoria is a new author to me but what a fun sweet read. I love how the story is told from two view points.
October 26, 2023
Wow so cute. RA
I loved it. Its just a cute story. I can't wait to read about all the friend's. Its a must read.
I loved it. Its just a cute story. I can't wait to read about all the friend's. Its a must read.
May 10, 2024
loved itttt
Such a fun read. I highly recommend it and you’ll fall in love with Levi ! Can’t wait to read more of the series
Such a fun read. I highly recommend it and you’ll fall in love with Levi ! Can’t wait to read more of the series
March 18, 2026
Nice easy read , with some hotness , i enjoyed it
May 21, 2022
don't find it particularly interesting, i think the book lacks depth. also, it felt a little fast pace too.
October 24, 2022
The Oakwood Park Series is a passion project inspired by my very own group of "the girls". Each book is dedicated to one of the women I hold so dear to my heart. (Check out the dedications - these girls deserve some love.)
The Grump focuses on a subject not many women want to talk about, but is so prevalent and life changing, I feel it needs to be spotlighted. Infertility. I tried to express with care and consideration, the true feelings of the women who struggle with this problem. Tessa and Levi are two beautiful souls that have suffered so much loss and heartache, I just had to write them a happy ending. So many people don't get that and it hurts my heart that they can't have what they deserve for being the strong, amazing people they are. Phoebe was another character that had to be highlighted. She was slightly modeled after my own daughter and I wanted to show that even the quiet, shy girls have the ability to change a person's life. With their love, fortitude, and quiet comfort, they can have a lasting impact on the saddest of hearts and should never be overlooked, no matter how badly they think they want to be. I hope you enjoy all of these characters as much as I have writing them!
Happy Reading fellow book nerds! Love - Vic
The Grump focuses on a subject not many women want to talk about, but is so prevalent and life changing, I feel it needs to be spotlighted. Infertility. I tried to express with care and consideration, the true feelings of the women who struggle with this problem. Tessa and Levi are two beautiful souls that have suffered so much loss and heartache, I just had to write them a happy ending. So many people don't get that and it hurts my heart that they can't have what they deserve for being the strong, amazing people they are. Phoebe was another character that had to be highlighted. She was slightly modeled after my own daughter and I wanted to show that even the quiet, shy girls have the ability to change a person's life. With their love, fortitude, and quiet comfort, they can have a lasting impact on the saddest of hearts and should never be overlooked, no matter how badly they think they want to be. I hope you enjoy all of these characters as much as I have writing them!
Happy Reading fellow book nerds! Love - Vic
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews