Showing posts with label Grumpy/Sunshine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grumpy/Sunshine. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Release Blitz & Review for Violent Little Thing by Lani Lynn Vale



Title: Violent Little Thing
Series: Don't Date Him #10
Author: Lani Lynn Vale
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine, One Night Stand, Small Town Sports Romance, Widower, Single Mom, Second Chance
Release Date: October 6, 2026


BLURB

The first time Courtland Navarro saw Charleigh Lynn Kensington, she was yelling at her old boss about a yeast infection.

Court didn’t know that his heart could even beat after the loss of his late wife, but in that moment, when she was yelling about a bladder infection from hell, he realized that maybe he hadn’t died inside after all.

The second time he saw her, he was protecting her from herself.

The big—actually quite small—bad—more like a pissed-off Chihuahua—Marine thought she could handle herself. And honestly, she might have been able to. But she was five-foot-nothing, had crazy blonde hair, and looked like one hell of an easy target.

To say that they got off on the wrong foot would be an understatement.

Then, searching for something to do with his life after getting out of prison, he finds a mechanic shop for sale. So he buys it.

Little did he know that Charleigh had wanted that shop.

And now she had even more reason to hate him.

She tries her hardest to hold on to the anger, the utter dislike of all things Court Navarro. But Charleigh doesn’t stand a chance.

Court has set his sights on her, and there’s nothing that she can do but surrender.

But, maybe, that was what she wanted all along.

Someone to fight for her.





The plot plunges us headfirst into a world steeped in loss and the flickering embers of hope. This story doesn't shy away from the raw ache of grief, but masterfully weaves it into a narrative of resilience, unexpected connection, and a love that feels both earned and utterly electric. At its heart, "Violent Little Thing" explores the profound impact of tragedy on two souls, Charleigh and Court. Court is a man burdened by survivor's guilt, haunted by the loss of his pregnant wife. Charleigh, too, grapples with immense grief, having lost her best friend, but her pain manifests as a fiery determination for revenge. Though their paths seem destined for animosity, they soon reveal a powerful, undeniable spark. What truly shines in "Violent Little Things" is the breathtakingly natural evolution of Charleigh and Court's relationship. Their dynamic is a masterclass in opposites attract, with Charleigh's fiery spirit acting as the perfect counterpoint to Court's gentle soul. The author perfectly captures the slow burn, the tender moments that bring tears to your eyes, and the laugh-out-loud humor that punctuates their journey. The supporting characters, particularly the "Dixie Warden Clan," add a rich tapestry of found family, making Charleigh's integration feel authentic and heartwarming. The plot is a thrilling ride, packed with secrets, power plays, and moments of genuine suspense that keep you utterly engrossed. Standout moments, like the priceless Mercantile scene and a truly unpredictable and the turn of events involving Jessamy, are guaranteed to linger long after the final page. "Violent Little Thing" is a must-read for us fans of small-town romance, stories featuring found families, and those who appreciate a blend of humor, drama, and explosive chemistry. If you enjoy tales of second chances, redemption, and characters who are as flawed as they are lovable, you will find yourself captivated. Takeaway: "Violent Little Thing" is a beautifully crafted romance that navigates the complexities of grief with honesty and a remarkable sense of hope. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately believe in the power of love to heal and transform. Highly recommended for an emotional and utterly satisfying read.





PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU


ALSO AVAILABLE IN THE
DON'T DATE HIM SERIES


AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU


COMING SOON


Releasing November 3

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU


AUTHOR BIO

Lani Lynn Vale is an American author of humorous romantic suspense novels. Born in the Great State of Texas, she has lived the majority of her adult life in East Texas where most of her novels are based. She’s married to her high school sweetheart whom her readers refer to as “LLV’s Bearded Half.” She published her first novel, Boomtown. in the summer of 2013 after the birth of her third child. She’s gone on to publish over 100 novels, with most of them going on to become USA Today Bestsellers.

AUTHOR LINKS

FACEBOOK


Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Review for Hunter by Jessie Cooke


Title: Hunter
Series: Southside Skulls Motorcycle Club
Author: Jessie Cooke
Genre: MC Romance
Release Date: December 7, 2017
 


She saved her criminal dad by knocking out the bounty hunter.
Now she can’t stop thinking about him.

Hunter lives for the chase. He’s a wild-hearted bounty hunter with a crooked smile, a Harley between his legs, and a hat that says don’t mess with me. But when a killer he once had in his sights slips through the cracks and kills his brother in the process, Hunter makes it his life’s mission to track the bastard down. Nothing will stop him this time. Not even the chaos of teaming up with his outrageous old friend Hurricane Katrina. Not even a small-town circus of weirdos. Not even… her.

Claire uprooted her life to get to know her newly discovered father...a charming screw-up who keeps landing in trouble. When a hot-as-sin bounty hunter chases her naked dad out into the street, Claire does the only thing she can: knocks the guy out cold and helps her old man escape.

Too bad she can’t stop thinking about the man she floored.

Hunter doesn’t hold a grudge...not when Claire is clever, curvy, and completely irresistible. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but with secrets, grief, and guns between them, can they build anything real? Or will the storm that’s chasing Hunter consume them both?

Hunter, a novel by Jessie Cooke, is a compelling work of contemporary fiction that delves into themes of identity, trauma, and resilience. Cooke’s storytelling is both raw and intimate, weaving a plot that is as emotionally charged as it is thought-provoking. 

At the heart of Hunter is a protagonist grappling with a difficult past, navigating the precarious balance between vulnerability and strength. Cooke’s prose is evocative without being overwrought, and she crafts a voice that feels authentic and immediate. The plot's tension arises not just from external conflicts but from the psychological landscapes the characters inhabit. This creates an immersive reading experience that invites reflection on the scars people carry and the ways they seek healing.

 One of the plot's strengths is its character development. The protagonist is richly layered, flawed, and deeply human, which allows readers to connect on an emotional level. Secondary characters are also well-drawn, contributing to a textured world that feels lived-in rather than merely a backdrop for the main storyline. Cooke’s attention to detail, especially in depicting the emotional aftermath of trauma, adds depth and sincerity to the narrative. 

The pacing of the plot is deliberate, allowing moments of quiet introspection to coexist with more intense, dramatic scenes. This rhythm helps to maintain engagement without sacrificing the emotional weight of the story. 

While some of us might find the slower sections challenging, they serve to deepen the understanding of the characters’ inner lives and the broader themes Cooke explores. 

In conclusion, Hunter by Jessie Cooke is a powerful and affecting novel. Those looking for a gripping yet thoughtful read that challenges you to empathize deeply will find much to admire here. The plot leaves you pondering the resilience of the human spirit long after the final page. For anyone ready to engage with a story that is both painful and hopeful, Hunter is a memorable journey worth taking.





Chapter 1
“Can I get you anything else, hon?”
Hunter looked at the pretty bartender. She had tattoos running across her chest and disappearing into the front of a tight, low-cut t-shirt. Her long auburn hair was swept to the side in a curly ponytail and she had the shape of an angel. There were so many things she could get him. But he had to work. Fuck it all anyways. 
“I’ll just have another beer when you have the time, darlin’.”
“Sure thing.” He watched her walk away and his body ached for a second. Forcing his attention from her shapely ass back to his target made any chance of an erection disappear. Larry Woods was a con artist and a thief. He was as ugly on the outside as he was inside as well, which was why Hunter couldn’t understand how he’d talked the not-too-ugly woman he was sitting with into having a drink with him. He was beginning to wonder, as he sat in the out-of-the-way cowboy bar, if maybe they were running a brothel out of the back. So far, he’d seen a few really ugly, desperate-looking men disappear into the door that led to the bathrooms and not come back. The women they were courting throughout the night disappeared as well, out the front. Hunter was itching to check it out, but he didn’t want to lose Larry. It had taken him three weeks to track the piece-of-dirt down and he was taking him in tonight if he had to shoot the greasy bastard in the head to do it. 

Hunter shuddered every time Larry smiled. His teeth wouldn’t be in too bad a shape if he would brush them. They were yellow and from three feet away, Hunter could see whatever the son of a bitch had for dinner…or maybe lunch…stuck between them. Just because you’re a criminal doesn’t mean you get a pass on flossing. Hunter couldn’t see the woman’s face, but he wondered how she was able to sit across from him and not get sick. The very idea of anyone kissing that guy made his stomach roll. She had to be getting paid…a lot. 
“Here you go, hon.” The pretty little barmaid sat his beer in front of him. 

“What’s your name, darlin’?”
“Carrie.”
“Well, Carrie, I hope you don’t mind me telling you this, but you sure are a pretty thing.”
She didn’t look embarrassed or blush at all, which told Hunter she was used to the compliments. In a place like this, he was surprised she didn’t have to carry a baseball bat under her arm to fight them off. “Thank you. I don’t mind when men say it respectfully. I appreciate you not feeling like you have the right to touch my ass.” She winked at him and picked up his empty beer bottle. Hunter laughed and said: 
“You know, I might have if you didn’t look like you could take me.” She had nice muscles in her arms. He’d love to know if her hands were just as strong…wrapped around his…

“Oh, I could,” she said, with another wink. Hunter held out twenty bucks and she said, “I’ll get you some change.”

“No, darlin’, you keep it. I’m sure, from the looks of this place, tips don’t flow freely.”

“You’d be right about that. Thanks.” She gave him another smile that made his cock dance in his jeans and then once again he was treated to the sight of her walking away. He groaned to himself and focused back on Larry. The woman he was with stood up and leaned down seductively to say something into Larry’s ear. Definitely getting paid. Larry laughed, close enough to her face now that she’d have to be able to smell all that nasty in his mouth. She didn’t flinch…She must be a true professional. Hunter watched her leave through the front door, and he knew now would be the best time to take Larry. But he thought about how much more fun it would be to follow him through that door in back instead, and he smiled. Hunter loved his job. He loved the adrenaline rush that taking down these losers who skipped out on bail gave him. He loved doing side work for the Skulls too. Dax had him on a big job at the moment, something that could bring the club and Dax down hard if it wasn’t taken care of. Hunter didn’t have any beef at all with Dax. Sure, the guy didn’t make all his money on the up and up, at least according to the law. But he gave even more back to his community than he took, and Hunter had to respect that. Besides, the jobs Dax hired him for paid twice as much as his “legitimate” job as a bounty hunter, and he didn’t have to claim it with the IRS, so it was a win/win. 

Larry stood up, and Hunter picked up his beer and drained it as the other man headed for the door in the back. Hunter and Larry had never met face to face, so Hunter wasn’t worried about Larry recognizing him. He got up just as Larry disappeared through the door marked “Restrooms” and followed him. When he got into the bathroom, he saw Larry exiting through another door that read “Emergency Exit Only.” Hunter moved fast and stopped it before it slammed shut. He heard Larry say: 
“Rose Oil,” and then another man’s voice saying: 

“Be back here in an hour. Don’t make me come up after you.”

“Sure thing,” Larry said. Then he said something stupid about lasting an hour and laughed at his own joke. Hunter waited until he heard footsteps on the wooden stairs before going through the door himself. He was instantly stopped by a man who looked like he’d been created from a liaison between the Incredible Hulk and an Amazon princess. His skin might have even had a slightly green tinge to it. Hunter looked up at the huge man and smiled. 

“Rose Oil,” he said. The man’s beefy fist connected with Hunter’s face before he even saw it coming. Damn, bigger than shit, and fast. Maybe Hunter should have thought this through a little better. 

“Who the fuck are you?” The man now standing over six feet above him bellowed.

“I’m a bounty hunter. I’m after the toad you just let through. I don’t give a shit what is going on back there…I’m just here for my bounty.” Hunter pushed up to his hands and knees, and a size 14 boot caught him in the ribs and propelled him back into the wall of the stairwell they were in. Even if he had a chance against this behemoth, there wasn’t room for him to even stand up. He coughed and spit up blood as the monster towered over him and watched. His gun was in his boot, but he was afraid if he went for it, the Incredible Hulk’s offspring would just use it on him. “Seriously,” he gasped out as soon as he could breathe. “I’m not here about the business that’s taking place upstairs. I could give a rat’s ass. I just want the sleazeball that just went up.” The giant looked like he was rearing back for another punch. Hunter rolled onto his back, which made his view worse, but at least he could see what was coming. “I’ll wait until he comes down if you prefer…I was just trying not to cause a scene for y’all in the bar.” The huge paw froze mid-air. Hunter had struck some kind of chord so he kept going. “I’ll bet the owner hates that shit, when there’s a fight and things get busted up…I was just trying to save him some trouble by waiting. Hell, I was going to take the guy in the bathroom, but he snuck through that door too quickly. I thought I was following him outside. Come on, man…I don’t want you, your boss, or those girls…just the pig who went up with the blonde, that’s all.”

“What’s in it for me?” the guy asked. 

“Excuse me?”

“I let you go upstairs and take that guy, you get paid for him, right?”

“Well, yeah, but not all that much and I have kids to feed…”

Hunter took another shot to the face. Fuck! His mouth was bleeding and he was probably sporting a couple of black eyes. When he finally caught up with Larry, that son of a bitch would pay hell for this. “I have kids of my own,” the monster said. Hunter shuddered to imagine who would make babies with this guy and hoped he was lying too. 
“Okay, I understand.” He had to gasp for each breath and his face hurt like hell. “I’ve only got a few hundred on me.” He had seven hundred on him, but four of it was in his boot. Hopefully Attila the Hun didn’t want him to strip.
“I’ll take it.”
With a lot of effort, Hunter sat up with his back to the wall and started to reach into his front pocket. The giant slapped his hand away and tried to put his own in Hunter’s pocket. It was too big to fit. Hunter waited until he gave up and patted across the front of his jeans to make sure he didn’t have a gun, then the bounty hunter said, “You’re not gonna charge me for that hand job, are you?” Another stupid mistake. Damn my mouth. As the man’s boot connected with his thigh Hunter decided he’d underestimated the size. It felt more like an 18. 

“You got anything else stupid to say?” Unfortunately, Hunter could probably go on all night if pain wasn’t involved. 

“No sir,” he said, through teeth that were gritted with pain. 
“Good, get the cash out.”

Larry was only going to net him a thousand dollars. He’d only make seven hundred after giving this guy three. Larry better hope he had some cash on him, because the mood Hunter was in at that point wasn’t going to make it a pleasant encounter. He took the money out and handed it, clip and all, to the hulk. The big guy counted it and when he was satisfied he said: 

“First room on the right.” Surprisingly, the guy handed him a key. “Don’t hurt the girl and don’t tear nothing up…if you want to get out of here with your bounty and your head.”

Hunter tried to smile. “No problem, mate.” Hulk didn’t smile back. Rude asshole. 

It took Hunter a good ten minutes to get up to his feet and upright enough to walk. The big guy stood back and watched him without any expression on his face. Once he could stay on his feet, Hunter grabbed the banister to the stairs and used it to pull himself up each step until he was at the top. He paused there and tried to pull himself together. He was bruised, bloody, three hundred dollars light, and pissed off at the world. He slid the key in the lock and once the door was loose, he kicked it in for effect. Larry’s naked white ass was pointed in his direction and he screamed like a girl when Hunter grabbed him from behind and pulled him out of the woman. 

“What the fuck, man? What is this? I paid!” Larry was on his back, naked, on the floor and he looked like he might cry. The woman was going for something in the dresser drawer. Hunter didn’t want to turn his back on Larry, but he was sure she was going for a gun. He grabbed the naked woman just as she stuck her hand in the drawer. While Larry was acting like a little bitch, the woman fought like a wildcat. She scratched and clawed at Hunter’s face and arms until he finally got her tucked under one of them and tossed her into the dirty little bathroom. She came at him again as he pulled the door closed. 

When he turned to look for something to lock her in with, he saw that Larry was gone. Motherfucker! He left the woman naked and screeching and ran after Larry. As soon as his feet hit the stairs he saw his skinny white ass near the bottom. The Hulk was just standing against the wall with his arms folded. 

“Stop him!” Hunter yelled. Hulk didn’t move. Hunter jumped the last six steps, hit the floor with both feet, and felt the jolt all the way up to his neck. By that time, a naked Larry had rushed out the outside door. Hunter followed him out into a back alley and by the time he caught him, Larry had run out into the middle of a busy street. They grappled on the asphalt long enough for Larry to realize he wasn’t going anywhere, as cars honked and skidded to a stop around them. When Hunter had the plastic cuffs on Larry’s wrists, he pulled the idiot to his feet, barely able to stand on his own…and realized he was looking into the eyes of an angel. Or at least that’s what he thought before he saw her arm move and felt the sting of something metal slam into his head. Just before his world went dark he heard the woman with the gorgeous aquamarine eyes say:  

“Get in the car, Dad. Jesus, this shit is getting old.”



Jessie Cooke writes fast-paced MC romance featuring possessive heroes, strong heroines, found family, and happily-ever-afters.

With a growing world of outlaw bikers, bad boys, and the women who tame them — from full series to hot short reads — there's always something new to devour. Heat, heart, humor, and heroes who'll burn it all down for the women they love.

New readers: start anywhere. You won't stop.

Hit the Follow button to get notified every time a new story drops.




Friday, July 17, 2026

Review for Rumor Has It by Giulia Lagomarsino



Title: Rumor Has It
Series: The Last Best Place for Love Book 6
Author: Giulia Lagomarsino
Genre: Small Town Romance
Tropes: Opposites Attract; Sworn off relationships; Grumpy/Sunshine; Damsel in Distress; Friends with Benefits
Release Date: July 13, 2026





★★★★★ Goodreads Review - “If you like small-town chaos, stubborn idiots falling in love, enough tension to power an electrical grid, and a healthy sprinkle of "well... that escalated quickly," do yourself a favor and pick this one up.”

★★★★★ Goodreads Review - “Giulia Lagomarsino is wonderful at world-building. More importantly, she creates characters who are fully three-dimensional, and then she makes you fall in love with them.”

★★★★★ Goodreads Review - “Oh boy... another emotional roller coaster from Giulia! Rumor Has It has it all—thrills, humor, a swoony small-town romance, and plenty of chaos.”

The moment I laid eyes on her as she dangled from a string of Christmas lights from her roof, I knew I was in trouble.

Gorgeous eyes, adorable smile, and a tenacity that I found oddly charming.

And so freaking sexy.

No woman should have that much power over a man. Yet, whenever I found myself around her, I couldn’t contain the need to kiss her, devour her…make her mine.

But this town is known for interfering and causing problems in even the smallest situations, which is why this has to stay a secret.

Every kiss, every second spent in her presence has to be between the two of us.

And yet, unforeseen circumstances force me to put myself out there even when I desperately just want room to recover from my injuries and discover who I am again.

I’ve seen the way she looks at me.
I’ve felt the way she shudders in my arms.

Rumor Has It, this isn’t going to turn out like I planned.

This latest installment featuring Cassidy, a charismatic bookstore owner, and Sam, a brooding boxer, proved to be a rollicking, heartfelt journey that blends romance, humor, and suspense with enviable ease. The author paints a vivid portrait of a small town buzzing with gossip and warmth, where this unlikely duo’s chemistry ignites the pages. What makes this book noteworthy—and worth diving into is the way it balances steamy romance with genuine laughs and intriguing plot twists that kept us hooked beyond the bedroom scenes. From a humorous meet-cute involving Cassidy hanging upside down from Christmas lights to more serious emotional undercurrents, the story grabbed my attention from start to finish.

The strength of this plot lies in both its characters and its sharp dialogue. Sam, with his tough exterior and emotionally guarded nature, comes across as a swoony yet complex figure. His reluctance to open up, potentially tied to childhood loss and the toll of his boxing career, adds layers to his character, making him more than just a romantic hero. Cassidy complements him perfectly; she’s intelligent, fiercely independent, and instantly lovable, even when her stubbornness or lack of caution lands her in hilarious predicaments. The dynamic between them, the teasing, the push and pull of desire and vulnerability, feels authentic and engaging, escalating the tension in a way that felt both sexy and fun. The author’s skillful pacing of these interactions kept me eagerly turning pages.

Equally enjoyable are the supporting characters who populate the town, adding humor, as seen in the amusing scene involving Sam and Jeff, which still makes me smile. These moments ground the story, making the setting feel lived in and welcoming. The suspense woven throughout builds steadily, hinting at larger unseen threats, which adds tension beyond the romantic plot. 

That said, some aspects felt slightly familiar with the trope of a guarded man with past trauma and the independent woman who could use a bit more self-protection is well-trod ground. Yet the author’s sharp wit and well-drawn personalities elevate the formula, preventing it from feeling stale. The emotional resolution may leave some readers wanting more clarity, but this also sets the stage intriguingly for future installments.

 This book is a vibrant, sexy, and often hilarious romance that artfully mixes suspense and emotional depth. If you’re looking for a story that balances passion, laughter, and mystery in a small-town setting, this one is a solid pick.









 



★★★★★ Amazon Review for Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart - “Some of her best writing…Holy cow, this book! I was immediately immersed in Murky Falls! I could not put this book down. I'm excited to read the rest of the series!”

★★★★★ Amazon Review for Real Good Man - “When the Grump Finds His Roots (and the Sunshine Refuses to Leave) …the kind of small-town romance that sneaks past your defenses with humor, heart, and a slow-burn love you didn’t see coming—but end up rooting for with your whole chest.”

★★★★★ Amazon Review for How Forever Feels - “Amazing! Felt like coming home again! Another fantastic book from Giulia!This story had it all, love, healing, and found family, not to mention the suspense of a 25 year old mystery to keep you guessing.”

★★★★★ Amazon Review for Shut Up and Kiss Me - “Amazing as always!!! What an adventure!!! It was fun, unpredictable, and full of emotion—exactly what I was hoping for and more. All in all, an easy 5 out of 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”

★★★★★ Amazon Review for Foolish Pride - “Amazing…Quite a surprise ending. Oh my gosh. Another story that stays with you for a while. I thought we were moving right into the HEA, when it all went sideways. I need the next book NOW. Great writing from an amazing storyteller.”


I'm a stay at home mom that loves to read. Some of my favorite titles are Pride and Prejudice, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and Horatio Hornblower. I started writing when I was trying to come up with suggestions on ways I could help bring in some extra money. I came up with the idea that I could donate plasma because you could earn an extra $500/month. My husband responded with, "No. Find something else. Write a blog. Write a book." I didn't think I had anything to share on blog that a thousand other mothers hadn't already thought of. I decided to take his challenge seriously and sat down to write my first book, Jack. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed writing. From there, the stories continued to flow and I haven't been able to stop. I hope my readers enjoy my books as much as I enjoy writing them. Between reading, writing, and taking care of three small kids, my days are quite full.