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Appies #4
Romancing the Grump
He’s a grump and happy to stay that way. But can her sunshine melt the ice around his heart?
Nathan Sanders didn't earn his reputation as the grouchiest player on the Appies hockey team by chance. So when Summer Callahan breezes into his life with her flirtatious smiles and endless charm, he responds like he always does: he completely ignores her.
But Summer is intrigued by the surly defenseman, so when a viral social media post requires her to step in and fake it as Nathan's girlfriend, she jumps at the chance. She's convinced the ones with the hardest shells are often the softest underneath, and she's determined to prove it.
But Nathan doesn't crack so easily. Despite their obvious chemistry, he makes his lack of interest in a relationship—any relationship—perfectly clear. But the longer they pretend, the less fake everything seems, and the more Summer starts to fall.
Nathan Sanders didn't earn his reputation as the grouchiest player on the Appies hockey team by chance. So when Summer Callahan breezes into his life with her flirtatious smiles and endless charm, he responds like he always does: he completely ignores her.
But Summer is intrigued by the surly defenseman, so when a viral social media post requires her to step in and fake it as Nathan's girlfriend, she jumps at the chance. She's convinced the ones with the hardest shells are often the softest underneath, and she's determined to prove it.
But Nathan doesn't crack so easily. Despite their obvious chemistry, he makes his lack of interest in a relationship—any relationship—perfectly clear. But the longer they pretend, the less fake everything seems, and the more Summer starts to fall.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2024
About the author
Jenny Proctor
36 books1,451 followersJenny Proctor is an award-winning author of more than fourteen romantic comedies and an Amazon bestseller. She began her career in publishing in 2013; her writing has been a constant since then, but she's also spent time as the owner and managing editor of Midnight Owl Editors and the chair of the Storymakers Conference. Wired for relationships, Jenny loves public speaking, teaching, and building lasting connections.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 655 reviews
August 24, 2024
I'm totally in my hockey era and can’t get enough of The Appies! Romancing the Grump is a swoon-fest, and I’m obsessed with Nathan and Summer’s story.
Nathan is your classic grumpy guy with a soft side, and while he’s usually a man of few words, he turns into a bumbling mess around Summer, and it's entertaining to read his inner thoughts! Summer, on the other hand, is fierce, determined, and keeps Nathan on his toes. She doesn't let him get away with his grumpy attitude and helps him grow, which was so sweet to watch. Their chemistry is off the charts—fun, flirty, and totally blush-worthy. Who knew Nathan had it in him?
Beyond their romance, I also loved the sense of family and community that shines through in this series. I’m loving how everyone supports each other, and this might just be my fave book in the series so far. And guess what? No long, drawn-out breakup—just a short "break," which made everything feel so real. If you're into a closed-door sports romance that's fun and not too sweet, this one's for you!
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Grumpy x sunshine
❤️🔥 Fake dating
❤️🔥 No third-act breakup
❤️🔥 Forced proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Workplace harassment, death of a parent, alcoholism
Nathan is your classic grumpy guy with a soft side, and while he’s usually a man of few words, he turns into a bumbling mess around Summer, and it's entertaining to read his inner thoughts! Summer, on the other hand, is fierce, determined, and keeps Nathan on his toes. She doesn't let him get away with his grumpy attitude and helps him grow, which was so sweet to watch. Their chemistry is off the charts—fun, flirty, and totally blush-worthy. Who knew Nathan had it in him?
Beyond their romance, I also loved the sense of family and community that shines through in this series. I’m loving how everyone supports each other, and this might just be my fave book in the series so far. And guess what? No long, drawn-out breakup—just a short "break," which made everything feel so real. If you're into a closed-door sports romance that's fun and not too sweet, this one's for you!
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Grumpy x sunshine
❤️🔥 Fake dating
❤️🔥 No third-act breakup
❤️🔥 Forced proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Workplace harassment, death of a parent, alcoholism
May 24, 2024
4.5-5⭐️ I am convinced that Jenny Proctor adds a touch of magic to every book she writes. There is something so distinctly special about each and every character in each and every series, and that trend continues with The Appies series.
Nathan is the grump with a heart of gold; Summer is sunshine incarnate, but with her own insecurities that make her entirely relatable. From the moment these two were on the page together (re: feisty banter over a parking space) I knew I wanted to come along for the ride.
This book features some of my favorite tropes, fake dating in particular, and each was used in the most perfect way, to complement the story rather than to be the story. Fake dating can sometimes feel very contrived and overpowering, but felt very much the opposite here. And the hockey? Proctor delivered on the hockey scenes; it is perfect for those who love hockey romance just as much for the hockey as the romance. Check 🏒
Ultimately, what I loved most about this book, and really Proctor’s writing in general, is the way in which she weaves together all of her series, not in a way that feels like you have missed a step if you’ve not read them, but rather that gives those who have read them an extra special peek into the lives of characters they have grown to love.
We all know the Hawthorne family has my heart, and it made my heart incredibly happy to read mentions of Flint and Audrey (Hawthorne Bros. #4). It is these small touches that end up creating a community you cannot help but want to be a part of, whether it be Silver Creek or Harvest Hollow.
I am excited to continue this series from both Proctor and her writing counterpart for the Appies, Emma St. Clair. I cannot wait to see what the next book will bring.
Read if you like:
•hockey romance
•small town vibes
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•grumpy x sunshine
•enemies(ish) to friends to lovers
•closed door romance
Thank you Jenny Proctor and Booked With The Emilys for the gifted copy.
Nathan is the grump with a heart of gold; Summer is sunshine incarnate, but with her own insecurities that make her entirely relatable. From the moment these two were on the page together (re: feisty banter over a parking space) I knew I wanted to come along for the ride.
This book features some of my favorite tropes, fake dating in particular, and each was used in the most perfect way, to complement the story rather than to be the story. Fake dating can sometimes feel very contrived and overpowering, but felt very much the opposite here. And the hockey? Proctor delivered on the hockey scenes; it is perfect for those who love hockey romance just as much for the hockey as the romance. Check 🏒
Ultimately, what I loved most about this book, and really Proctor’s writing in general, is the way in which she weaves together all of her series, not in a way that feels like you have missed a step if you’ve not read them, but rather that gives those who have read them an extra special peek into the lives of characters they have grown to love.
We all know the Hawthorne family has my heart, and it made my heart incredibly happy to read mentions of Flint and Audrey (Hawthorne Bros. #4). It is these small touches that end up creating a community you cannot help but want to be a part of, whether it be Silver Creek or Harvest Hollow.
I am excited to continue this series from both Proctor and her writing counterpart for the Appies, Emma St. Clair. I cannot wait to see what the next book will bring.
Read if you like:
•hockey romance
•small town vibes
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•grumpy x sunshine
•enemies(ish) to friends to lovers
•closed door romance
Thank you Jenny Proctor and Booked With The Emilys for the gifted copy.
May 14, 2024
I had a suspicion for a while now but after reading this book I am a proud to say I am a BIG fan of the grumpy x sunshine! This book was GREAT yall. I didn't realize it was spice free until mid-read but honestly, I don't know if it would have fit in this one. These characters were awesome. I loved meeting the side characters and trying to figure out who will be pairing off. I am probably going to read the first one because I am a legit series addict. This book made me smile with how determined Summer was to make Nathan smile. I loved learning more about their backgrounds and why they both are the way they are. I loved the little nuggets that Nathan started giving Summer that were like GOLD. Just overall a really easy summer read with some hot kisses and an HEA.
Summer is excited to start her new job. She is a little nervous but isn't letting it show. That is until she has a run in with none other than Nathan Sanders in the parking lot. The same Nathan who gave her all kinds of tingly feelings when they met each other in the fall at a festival. The same Nathan who is now scowling at her and looking like she is an inconvenience. And yay! This is her first day. Moving along with the story, Summer finds herself in a situation where she is asked to be Nathan's fake girlfriend for PR purposes. She doesn't mind because she is finally facing that she has some feelings for him. At least this way she will be able to spend some time with him and maybe work on getting him to smile more. Maybe she will get to know a little bit more about the team grump who she cant stop thinking about. Especially now that he has actually smiled, and they have kissed, and they are pretending RIGHT?! He has made it clear he can't do relationships, but Summer can't help but read into how he acts around her versus what he is saying. Could he be ready? Would he want to try with her because she definitely doesn't want to pretend anymore.
Nathan is happy. He is doing what he loves, and his team is doing better than expected. He has a problem now though. This PR campaign of his brooding pictures has turned a little too risqué for the team. Some of the fans are losing their minds which is when Parker, their PR person, comes up with Summer and Nathan fake dating. This way the fan ladies will cool off. The problem is Nathan doesn't know how to be a real boyfriend let alone a fake one. He just knows what to NOT do, and that is be how he remembers his dad. Which is why he has to keep reminding himself that him and Summer are just friends. Even though that kiss felt real. And waking up next to her felt real. And seeing his name on her does things to him. But definitely they are just friends. But maybe he could try to break the mold that he has kept himself in. IF he could do it for anyone, it would be Summer.
I haven't read anything by Jenny before but will definitely be looking into her other series which is in the same universe as this from what I can tell with some characters that we have met. I liked the lightness of this one. The angst and heat were hot but again no spice. Lots of thoughts about things happening but nothing more than kisses which fits this story. This one made me smile, and I hope it will make you smile too!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Summer is excited to start her new job. She is a little nervous but isn't letting it show. That is until she has a run in with none other than Nathan Sanders in the parking lot. The same Nathan who gave her all kinds of tingly feelings when they met each other in the fall at a festival. The same Nathan who is now scowling at her and looking like she is an inconvenience. And yay! This is her first day. Moving along with the story, Summer finds herself in a situation where she is asked to be Nathan's fake girlfriend for PR purposes. She doesn't mind because she is finally facing that she has some feelings for him. At least this way she will be able to spend some time with him and maybe work on getting him to smile more. Maybe she will get to know a little bit more about the team grump who she cant stop thinking about. Especially now that he has actually smiled, and they have kissed, and they are pretending RIGHT?! He has made it clear he can't do relationships, but Summer can't help but read into how he acts around her versus what he is saying. Could he be ready? Would he want to try with her because she definitely doesn't want to pretend anymore.
Nathan is happy. He is doing what he loves, and his team is doing better than expected. He has a problem now though. This PR campaign of his brooding pictures has turned a little too risqué for the team. Some of the fans are losing their minds which is when Parker, their PR person, comes up with Summer and Nathan fake dating. This way the fan ladies will cool off. The problem is Nathan doesn't know how to be a real boyfriend let alone a fake one. He just knows what to NOT do, and that is be how he remembers his dad. Which is why he has to keep reminding himself that him and Summer are just friends. Even though that kiss felt real. And waking up next to her felt real. And seeing his name on her does things to him. But definitely they are just friends. But maybe he could try to break the mold that he has kept himself in. IF he could do it for anyone, it would be Summer.
I haven't read anything by Jenny before but will definitely be looking into her other series which is in the same universe as this from what I can tell with some characters that we have met. I liked the lightness of this one. The angst and heat were hot but again no spice. Lots of thoughts about things happening but nothing more than kisses which fits this story. This one made me smile, and I hope it will make you smile too!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
April 20, 2024
Ugh I love these books so much! Seriously I want to be a member of the Appies franchise. Grumpy x sunshine, fake dating, forced proximity, she takes care of him when he’s sick, closed door romance, HEA….literally how could you not love this book!
May 7, 2024
Thank you so much NetGalley and JPC publishing for this eARC!
Romancing the grump is the 2nd book in the Appies series and tough I didn’t know it at first ( my fault entirely) it was nice to see this can totally be read as a standalone.
This is a YA romance and we follow Summer Callahan, who just took a job as a legal counsel for the Appies, small Hockey Team. There, she meets Nathan again, the guy she is attracted to but rejected her a few months ago and who also happen to be one of the players on the team. He is grumpy and is against relationships.
I’m usually not into love at first sight, I prefer slow burn romances but this was a truly cute, swoon worthy kind of romance. It’s grumpy x sunshine, fake relationship, friends to lovers, we get a dual POV and I loved the fact that Summer is a girl who owns her feelings and isn’t afraid to say whatever she thinks. Nathan felt a lot more complex character though, with his daddy issues and his no dating rule. I really appreciated his character nonetheless, and the way he can always tell her apart from her twin sister.
Their relationship was really sweet and there’s a lot of respect and protectiveness on both parts.
I feel like I have to say that this has no spice whatsoever but if you’re into feel good, cute love story, this might just be the one for you!!!
Romancing the grump is the 2nd book in the Appies series and tough I didn’t know it at first ( my fault entirely) it was nice to see this can totally be read as a standalone.
This is a YA romance and we follow Summer Callahan, who just took a job as a legal counsel for the Appies, small Hockey Team. There, she meets Nathan again, the guy she is attracted to but rejected her a few months ago and who also happen to be one of the players on the team. He is grumpy and is against relationships.
I’m usually not into love at first sight, I prefer slow burn romances but this was a truly cute, swoon worthy kind of romance. It’s grumpy x sunshine, fake relationship, friends to lovers, we get a dual POV and I loved the fact that Summer is a girl who owns her feelings and isn’t afraid to say whatever she thinks. Nathan felt a lot more complex character though, with his daddy issues and his no dating rule. I really appreciated his character nonetheless, and the way he can always tell her apart from her twin sister.
Their relationship was really sweet and there’s a lot of respect and protectiveness on both parts.
I feel like I have to say that this has no spice whatsoever but if you’re into feel good, cute love story, this might just be the one for you!!!
April 20, 2024
SHUT. THE . FRONT . DOOR.
I don’t think I ever read a book this fast
I don’t think I ever read a book this fast
April 21, 2024
I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
I loved this book. I love the Appies and I want books for all of them, they are such a good found family and their stories are always entertening. This couple never gave up, especially Summer, she fell even knowing that he may never be with her because of his personal problems. But she took a risk and it definitely paid off. Nathan was fighting so hard to not fall for Summer but it was pointless. He was so captivated by her that everyone could the love between them. I loved how they were all rooting for them, it was adorable. They deserved to have their love lived and I was so glad that they could do it. The whole fake relationship thing was basically a real one, Nathan just had to admit it
I loved this book. I love the Appies and I want books for all of them, they are such a good found family and their stories are always entertening. This couple never gave up, especially Summer, she fell even knowing that he may never be with her because of his personal problems. But she took a risk and it definitely paid off. Nathan was fighting so hard to not fall for Summer but it was pointless. He was so captivated by her that everyone could the love between them. I loved how they were all rooting for them, it was adorable. They deserved to have their love lived and I was so glad that they could do it. The whole fake relationship thing was basically a real one, Nathan just had to admit it
May 2, 2024
I need more Appies Please!!!! I can't tell you how happy I am that Jenny Proctor and another author had such a great response to their books in the Sweater Weather series about some hockey players and that led to them each writing another book about a hockey player from the Appies hockey team! And I don't think any of their fans will complain if they kept writing more! *Hint, Hint* *Winks*
This one is a grumpy/sunshine trope and I loved how the author pulled it off! It's not my favorite trope but I still read several books with that trope. But this one definitely is in my top favorites that includes this trope!
I just adored everything about Nathan and Summer. You don't quite know what to get from Nathan but he was a wonderful surprise for Summer around every turn. And their banter was top notch! I giggled and laughed out loud so many times with these two! I loved it! And I was swooning too!
There were several sweet and tender moments woven throughout as well that just had me loving these two even more. And can I just say a brooding hockey player standing up to protect a woman is pretty awesome to read about! You'll know what scene I'm talking about when you get there! Be still my heart! ;-)
Read all of the Appies books and go back and read the Sweater Weather books as well. Lots of great reading material there!!!
Content: Clean. Some talk of team members drinking alcohol, talk of a family member who suffered from alcoholism. A few kisses but nothing further. No language. I'd let my teenagers read it.
I received a copy from the publisher/author, JPC Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This one is a grumpy/sunshine trope and I loved how the author pulled it off! It's not my favorite trope but I still read several books with that trope. But this one definitely is in my top favorites that includes this trope!
I just adored everything about Nathan and Summer. You don't quite know what to get from Nathan but he was a wonderful surprise for Summer around every turn. And their banter was top notch! I giggled and laughed out loud so many times with these two! I loved it! And I was swooning too!
There were several sweet and tender moments woven throughout as well that just had me loving these two even more. And can I just say a brooding hockey player standing up to protect a woman is pretty awesome to read about! You'll know what scene I'm talking about when you get there! Be still my heart! ;-)
Read all of the Appies books and go back and read the Sweater Weather books as well. Lots of great reading material there!!!
Content: Clean. Some talk of team members drinking alcohol, talk of a family member who suffered from alcoholism. A few kisses but nothing further. No language. I'd let my teenagers read it.
I received a copy from the publisher/author, JPC Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
May 17, 2024
this was so cute 😭😭😭
May 23, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
Can Summer tame brooding beast, Nathan?
This is book 4 in the Appies book series and I loved it! This one follows grump Nathan who plays on the AHL team the Appies and Summer who has just been hired as the team’s legal counsel.
Jenny truly gets better with every book she writes! I just loved these two and the tie in with Jenny’s Hawthorne brothers series! Summer is Audrey’s sister from 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙆𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧.
Jenny’s books are closed door, but she excels at bringing the tension and heat. 🔥 I just wanted these two to finally admit their feelings to one another! 😆 There was no denying there was chemistry between them.
I love this hockey team and their interactions with one another. So far Nathan and Felix are my favorites, but I’m anxious for a few more guys to get their stories.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
•fake dating
•grumpy/sunshine
•hockey romcoms
•laugh out loud moments
•she takes care of him while sick
Can Summer tame brooding beast, Nathan?
This is book 4 in the Appies book series and I loved it! This one follows grump Nathan who plays on the AHL team the Appies and Summer who has just been hired as the team’s legal counsel.
Jenny truly gets better with every book she writes! I just loved these two and the tie in with Jenny’s Hawthorne brothers series! Summer is Audrey’s sister from 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙆𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧.
Jenny’s books are closed door, but she excels at bringing the tension and heat. 🔥 I just wanted these two to finally admit their feelings to one another! 😆 There was no denying there was chemistry between them.
I love this hockey team and their interactions with one another. So far Nathan and Felix are my favorites, but I’m anxious for a few more guys to get their stories.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
•fake dating
•grumpy/sunshine
•hockey romcoms
•laugh out loud moments
•she takes care of him while sick
May 13, 2024
Oh, be still my beating heart but that was just perfection. Nathan and Summer, your story made me feel all the feels. I didn't want it to end.
Sweet, funny, tug at your heartstrings perfection. Great writing, great cast of characters. Why haven't I read any of Appies books before?!
Romancing The Grump is just perfect. It's got that perfect balance of ingredients. Enough sweetness, enough spice, sprinkles of laughter but also heavier emotional issues. There's a tiny bit of ice hockey too. And I do love hockey. I'm just swooning over here but I just loved that book.
So I'm off to get the other Appies books and if you love sweet romance books, do yourself a favour, and read them too.
I want to thank NetGalley and JPC Publishing for my copy of the book.
Sweet, funny, tug at your heartstrings perfection. Great writing, great cast of characters. Why haven't I read any of Appies books before?!
Romancing The Grump is just perfect. It's got that perfect balance of ingredients. Enough sweetness, enough spice, sprinkles of laughter but also heavier emotional issues. There's a tiny bit of ice hockey too. And I do love hockey. I'm just swooning over here but I just loved that book.
So I'm off to get the other Appies books and if you love sweet romance books, do yourself a favour, and read them too.
I want to thank NetGalley and JPC Publishing for my copy of the book.
July 2, 2024
What like a siren called me to read this book
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- hockey romance
-FMC pursuing MMC
-Closed doors
Nice moments between Summer and Nathan and loved these two together even though he is not pursuing her bur vice versa, liked him and his family dynamic….
What I disliked and takes away 2 stars is TIK TOK quoting and not subtly done ad.
Too much tik toking
All in all cute and nice to read
Thank you so much to, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- hockey romance
-FMC pursuing MMC
-Closed doors
Nice moments between Summer and Nathan and loved these two together even though he is not pursuing her bur vice versa, liked him and his family dynamic….
What I disliked and takes away 2 stars is TIK TOK quoting and not subtly done ad.
Too much tik toking
All in all cute and nice to read
Thank you so much to, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy
April 24, 2024
“I don’t think you’re half as grumpy as people say you are. You’ve got this broody, frowny persona publicly, but deep down, you’re kind of a big softie.”
Nathan Sanders is a secondary character in previous books about the Appies hockey team, and I’ve been anxiously waiting for his story. It was so worth the wait!
Jenny and Emma St. Clair have created a marvelous hockey romance series, and like the other books, Romancing the Grump has a fabulous romance, great chemistry between the MCs, funny and witty dialogue, entertaining interactions with the characters from the previous books, and an engaging storyline that pulled me right in. I loved it!
Nathan is a major grump who has sworn off any relationships while playing hockey. After some female fans get out of control, online and in person, having a fake girlfriend seems like a good way to solve the problem.
Summer Callahan Is a lawyer for the team and agrees to be Nathan’s fake girlfriend, but quickly falls for him and very much wants to be his real girlfriend.
Nathan and Summer were perfect together. She’s one of the few people that can make him smile and crack the ice around his heart. I loved how protective he was of Summer and everyone else that he really cared about.
Summer was such a likable character. I loved how smart, capable, sassy, and supportive she was. And I loved that she openly communicated her feelings.
The grumpy/sunshine trope is one of my very favorites, and this one was just SO good! If you enjoy this trope, I highly recommend this gem.
This is part of a series, but can certainly be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC!
April 23, 2024
I think the best word that sums up this book is cute. I don't read a lot of YA romance so I knew going into it I wasn't going to be getting a Elle Kennedyesqe hockey romance, but this was an easy, fun read overall.
So, things I liked:
✅ Fake dating (the superior trope)
✅ Grumpy x sunshine
✅ Hockey romance (another fav)
✅ Her taking care of him when he's sick (I was obsessed with that moment in The Hating Game, and I've been chasing that high ever since)
✅ There's really not a third act break up. Because the FMC is an adult and is able to use her words. So refreshing.
Things I didn't love:
❌ The whole reason for fake dating was a little ridiculous. A hashtag is trending that the social media manager doesn't like so her solution is to have Nathan get a fake girlfriend.
❌ The Epilogue. I thought it was rushed and made Summer seem annoying (I'd say more, but I don't want to spoil anything)
❌ Is there any point in having the "only one bed" moment if no one get naked? (In my humble opinion, no there isn't).
There's lots of secondary characters and most of them I liked. I'm sure it's a lot more exciting when all these random people pop up from her other books for people who have actually read them (I have not so I didn't know squat about anyone).
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So, things I liked:
✅ Fake dating (the superior trope)
✅ Grumpy x sunshine
✅ Hockey romance (another fav)
✅ Her taking care of him when he's sick (I was obsessed with that moment in The Hating Game, and I've been chasing that high ever since)
✅ There's really not a third act break up. Because the FMC is an adult and is able to use her words. So refreshing.
Things I didn't love:
❌ The whole reason for fake dating was a little ridiculous. A hashtag is trending that the social media manager doesn't like so her solution is to have Nathan get a fake girlfriend.
❌ The Epilogue. I thought it was rushed and made Summer seem annoying (I'd say more, but I don't want to spoil anything)
❌ Is there any point in having the "only one bed" moment if no one get naked? (In my humble opinion, no there isn't).
There's lots of secondary characters and most of them I liked. I'm sure it's a lot more exciting when all these random people pop up from her other books for people who have actually read them (I have not so I didn't know squat about anyone).
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2024
grumpy sunshine books never fails me!!! this book is so so good! the characters are super loveable and i adore them so much, super swoony that i can't stop smiling, giggling, and kicking my feet!! the found family between the hockey teammates is so wholesome and i was having so much fun reading this book! there is no single reason that makes me not to love this book!
🏒grumpy x sunshine
🏒 fake dating
🏒 hockey romance
🏒workplace romance
🏒 she takes care of him while she sick
🏒 he saves her from creepy ex-boss
🏒 found family and funny hockey teammates
(im still smiling while writing this review because aaaah i love them so much! nathansummer forever<33)
🏒grumpy x sunshine
🏒 fake dating
🏒 hockey romance
🏒workplace romance
🏒 she takes care of him while she sick
🏒 he saves her from creepy ex-boss
🏒 found family and funny hockey teammates
(im still smiling while writing this review because aaaah i love them so much! nathansummer forever<33)
August 13, 2024
The MC was too realistic if I wanted a realistic I'd go get myself one irl
April 23, 2024
3.5 Stars
🏒 The vibes:
- hockey romance
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- Family dysfunction
🥅 My thoughts:
I rarely turn down a hockey closed door romance. I was excited to read this one because I’ve enjoyed the Appies in previous books. Summer and Nathan were both instantly attracted to eachother but when Nathan expresses that he won’t be in a relationship while playing hockey, Summer is very disappointed but pretty relentless in her pursuit of him.
🏒 There were some very cute moments that I loved between Nathan and Summer, especially when she took care of him when he was sick. I loved Nathan in general (though I wouldn’t consider him a grump by any means). I liked seeing him with his family; I really enjoyed the entire plot line involving his family past dysfunction and the resolution with that entire situation. My favorite part of the book is Nathan and his journey of learning how to let Summer get past his walls.
🥅 There’s a lot of social media/tik tok in the plot which isn’t my favorite element (probably because I’m old). I didn’t love the emphasis on TikTok, and this book made me dislike Parker’s job and judgment, to be honest. It made me question if pushing atheletes in Tik Tok should be a thing. I don’t think that’s the point of the book- but it definitely made me weary of it. Again- I’m old 😂🙈.
🥅 My main gripe aside from a heavy Tik Tok plot- is a personal preference thing but I’m learning that I don’t love when it’s the FMC that is chasing the MMC or being the primary pursuer. I think I prefer he falls first/harder than the opposite of that- so that was an element that wasn’t my favorite. The attraction and pursuit was instant and I typically prefer a slower progression, but overall I still enjoyed this book and would continue reading anything Appies related.
Release date: April 23, 2024.
Thank you so much to Jenny Proctor, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy.
🏒 The vibes:
- hockey romance
- Fake dating
- Taking care of him when he’s sick
- Family dysfunction
🥅 My thoughts:
I rarely turn down a hockey closed door romance. I was excited to read this one because I’ve enjoyed the Appies in previous books. Summer and Nathan were both instantly attracted to eachother but when Nathan expresses that he won’t be in a relationship while playing hockey, Summer is very disappointed but pretty relentless in her pursuit of him.
🏒 There were some very cute moments that I loved between Nathan and Summer, especially when she took care of him when he was sick. I loved Nathan in general (though I wouldn’t consider him a grump by any means). I liked seeing him with his family; I really enjoyed the entire plot line involving his family past dysfunction and the resolution with that entire situation. My favorite part of the book is Nathan and his journey of learning how to let Summer get past his walls.
🥅 There’s a lot of social media/tik tok in the plot which isn’t my favorite element (probably because I’m old). I didn’t love the emphasis on TikTok, and this book made me dislike Parker’s job and judgment, to be honest. It made me question if pushing atheletes in Tik Tok should be a thing. I don’t think that’s the point of the book- but it definitely made me weary of it. Again- I’m old 😂🙈.
🥅 My main gripe aside from a heavy Tik Tok plot- is a personal preference thing but I’m learning that I don’t love when it’s the FMC that is chasing the MMC or being the primary pursuer. I think I prefer he falls first/harder than the opposite of that- so that was an element that wasn’t my favorite. The attraction and pursuit was instant and I typically prefer a slower progression, but overall I still enjoyed this book and would continue reading anything Appies related.
Release date: April 23, 2024.
Thank you so much to Jenny Proctor, NetGalley, and JPC Publishing for the gifted copy.
April 21, 2024
Romancing the Grump is the fourth book in the Appies series, and I absolutely enjoyed it! A fake dating, grumpy x sunshine, sweet hockey romance? Yes, please!
I was so excited for Summer to get her own book after getting to know her a little bit in Jenny Proctor’s other books, and I cannot get enough of the Appies hockey team. Nathan and Summer’s story was lovely. I loved Summer’s fiery, loving personality with Nathan’s grouchy but secretly very sweet personality. The banter, as always, was phenomenal. I was smiling and giggling pretty much the entire time I was reading this one, and the ending was so heartwarming.
I just love all the connections in this book, too. The way that Summer and her sisters are so close, the brotherhood vibes from the hockey team, connections from other Jenny books, the hockey girlfriend friendships–it’s all very sweet.
I’ve become the biggest Appie fan, and I can’t wait to hopefully get more of the Appies in the future.
Huge thank you to @jennyproctor for writing another incredible book for us but also for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited for Summer to get her own book after getting to know her a little bit in Jenny Proctor’s other books, and I cannot get enough of the Appies hockey team. Nathan and Summer’s story was lovely. I loved Summer’s fiery, loving personality with Nathan’s grouchy but secretly very sweet personality. The banter, as always, was phenomenal. I was smiling and giggling pretty much the entire time I was reading this one, and the ending was so heartwarming.
I just love all the connections in this book, too. The way that Summer and her sisters are so close, the brotherhood vibes from the hockey team, connections from other Jenny books, the hockey girlfriend friendships–it’s all very sweet.
I’ve become the biggest Appie fan, and I can’t wait to hopefully get more of the Appies in the future.
Huge thank you to @jennyproctor for writing another incredible book for us but also for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2024
Él es el gruñón del equipo de hockey, puede parecer duro por fuera, pero tiene un gran corazón. Ella entra en su vida con su encanto y sonrisas. Él se siente intrigado, aunque lo oculte bajo su actitud gruñona.
La verdad estuve muy ocupada con la uni y me costo mucho seguirle el rollo a la historia, pero lo disfrute a pesar de que iba poco a poco leyéndola. En lo personal no fueron personajes muy memorables, pero disfrute leyendo la historia porque se lee rápido solo que no tenía mucho tiempo para leer.
Si buscan un grumpy x sunshine este esta bueno ✨
Muchas gracias por el arc a netgalley
La verdad estuve muy ocupada con la uni y me costo mucho seguirle el rollo a la historia, pero lo disfrute a pesar de que iba poco a poco leyéndola. En lo personal no fueron personajes muy memorables, pero disfrute leyendo la historia porque se lee rápido solo que no tenía mucho tiempo para leer.
Si buscan un grumpy x sunshine este esta bueno ✨
Muchas gracias por el arc a netgalley
April 21, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. Summer's unconditional love for Nathan, and her willingness to give her all to him, even if it meant risking a broken heart, was heartwarming. Witnessing Nathan's struggle to come to terms with what he once thought was impossible, and his eventual acceptance of the truth, was truly rewarding. The side characters were well-developed, and the humorous banter between the boys was a delight. I am eager to read more stories set in this world.
April 29, 2024
I didn’t think it was possible to too Felix, but this giant grumpy idiot just might 🤣
April 20, 2024
Thank you to JPC Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC copy. All opinions in this review are my own.
Read if you love tension and yearning yet evenly paced romance. While this is a PG-rated romance, it stills gives a satisfying pay off and swoon worthy moments. I am still gremlin giggling over, "Summer. Let me see my name."
Jenny Proctor writes yet another cozy and sweet romance. I've read 3/4 of her books involving the Appies, and this one is my favorite. The characters are more believable and there are other subplots that kept me engaged. I'm excited to see the author carry on the Appies group. They keep getting better!
Refrain if you want sex (read: closed door romance) and if you are not a fan of pop culture references. This and the other books in the series references Tiktok heavily and even bases the series around the team's popularity on social media. A major plot point seemed inspired by the Seattle Kraken situation, which did not sit well with me.
This comes out April 23, 2024!
Read if you love tension and yearning yet evenly paced romance. While this is a PG-rated romance, it stills gives a satisfying pay off and swoon worthy moments. I am still gremlin giggling over, "Summer. Let me see my name."
Jenny Proctor writes yet another cozy and sweet romance. I've read 3/4 of her books involving the Appies, and this one is my favorite. The characters are more believable and there are other subplots that kept me engaged. I'm excited to see the author carry on the Appies group. They keep getting better!
Refrain if you want sex (read: closed door romance) and if you are not a fan of pop culture references. This and the other books in the series references Tiktok heavily and even bases the series around the team's popularity on social media. A major plot point seemed inspired by the Seattle Kraken situation, which did not sit well with me.
This comes out April 23, 2024!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy.
THIS BOOK.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Gosh, Jenny Proctor, DOES NOT MISS. I have been anxiously waiting for another Appies books and this was incredible. An all consuming kind of romance with the push and pull angst that leaves you breathless. And the kissing scenes??? YES PLEASE.
I loved Nathan and Summer (yay for dual POV!). Their chemistry was so easy to see and you just felt that draw between them. I loved how Nathan’s struggles with relationships were handled and that he had space to work through his own trauma to find love with Summer. And I loved how brave and bold Summer was. She leaned into the fear of not knowing how the situation would unfold and I loved that for her. The dialogue and banter was, as always, swoony and fun. And I can’t get enough of the strong friendships and families throughout. I love the support the other Appies players provide and the comradery between everyone.
I could go on and on about how many scenes I adored (why yes, we get another JERSEY SCENE Y’ALL) and the sweetness of the relationship between Summer and Nathan. I loved everything about this.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: heated kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: workplace harassment, death of a parent (recounted, alcoholism)
THIS BOOK.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Gosh, Jenny Proctor, DOES NOT MISS. I have been anxiously waiting for another Appies books and this was incredible. An all consuming kind of romance with the push and pull angst that leaves you breathless. And the kissing scenes??? YES PLEASE.
I loved Nathan and Summer (yay for dual POV!). Their chemistry was so easy to see and you just felt that draw between them. I loved how Nathan’s struggles with relationships were handled and that he had space to work through his own trauma to find love with Summer. And I loved how brave and bold Summer was. She leaned into the fear of not knowing how the situation would unfold and I loved that for her. The dialogue and banter was, as always, swoony and fun. And I can’t get enough of the strong friendships and families throughout. I love the support the other Appies players provide and the comradery between everyone.
I could go on and on about how many scenes I adored (why yes, we get another JERSEY SCENE Y’ALL) and the sweetness of the relationship between Summer and Nathan. I loved everything about this.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: heated kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: workplace harassment, death of a parent (recounted, alcoholism)
May 10, 2024
Rating: ⭐️���️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⛸️Duel POV
⛸️Fake dating
⛸️Forced Proximity
⛸️Grumpy x Sunshine
⛸️Workplace romance
⛸️Closed door romance
This is the first novel iv read from author Jenny Proctor & I absolutely enjoyed reading it. It had my complete attention the whole way through, it was definitely a hard to put down book because I just wanted to keep reading. I adored both Summer & Nathan, such a beautiful connection between both of them. I felt every emotion especially with Summer being vulnerable & taking a risk knowing what she did. Nathan learning the truth about what he thought his childhood was like, slowly opening up & knocking down the walls he’s had up for so many years. Summer is so patient, understanding & supportive. Nathan is attentive & so caring though he may come across as a grump they brought the best out of each other.
Being the first closed book romance iv read it has me wanting to read more. This book is definitely in my top favourite books.
Thank you NetGalley & Jenny Proctor for the ARC ebook.
⛸️Duel POV
⛸️Fake dating
⛸️Forced Proximity
⛸️Grumpy x Sunshine
⛸️Workplace romance
⛸️Closed door romance
This is the first novel iv read from author Jenny Proctor & I absolutely enjoyed reading it. It had my complete attention the whole way through, it was definitely a hard to put down book because I just wanted to keep reading. I adored both Summer & Nathan, such a beautiful connection between both of them. I felt every emotion especially with Summer being vulnerable & taking a risk knowing what she did. Nathan learning the truth about what he thought his childhood was like, slowly opening up & knocking down the walls he’s had up for so many years. Summer is so patient, understanding & supportive. Nathan is attentive & so caring though he may come across as a grump they brought the best out of each other.
Being the first closed book romance iv read it has me wanting to read more. This book is definitely in my top favourite books.
Thank you NetGalley & Jenny Proctor for the ARC ebook.
April 23, 2024
4.5 stars
Summer joins the Appies as one of the attorneys on staff to help negotiate contracts and help with the legal team needs. She's not an unfamiliar face and when the opportunity presents itself for Summer to go above and beyond to help Nathan, it's an easy yes. Nathan is not interested in a relationship while he plays hockey and reluctantly agrees to the façade of one to prevent the crazy fans from getting crazier.
I adore the way Jenny writes dialogue and chemistry. The joy of reading this book is what I expect from her after her last several releases. Summer and Nathan work so well on page and the way they join forces is terribly sweet. All the character cameos from previous books were delightful and could have been overwhelming, but it was so seamlessly done. I'm most looking forward to Alec's book after a scene with him in it had me in stitches!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Why it's not a five star : I personally struggle with the "I'm into her/him but don't deserve it but I can't fight it so I lead both of us on anyway". I absolutely get the why, it's just not for me.
Summer joins the Appies as one of the attorneys on staff to help negotiate contracts and help with the legal team needs. She's not an unfamiliar face and when the opportunity presents itself for Summer to go above and beyond to help Nathan, it's an easy yes. Nathan is not interested in a relationship while he plays hockey and reluctantly agrees to the façade of one to prevent the crazy fans from getting crazier.
I adore the way Jenny writes dialogue and chemistry. The joy of reading this book is what I expect from her after her last several releases. Summer and Nathan work so well on page and the way they join forces is terribly sweet. All the character cameos from previous books were delightful and could have been overwhelming, but it was so seamlessly done. I'm most looking forward to Alec's book after a scene with him in it had me in stitches!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Why it's not a five star : I personally struggle with the "I'm into her/him but don't deserve it but I can't fight it so I lead both of us on anyway". I absolutely get the why, it's just not for me.
April 30, 2024
I received this as an ARC copy on NetGalley, and I was so excited to read it. It was definitely a bit of a slower burn than I usually go for, but Nathan and Summer have such electric chemistry, and I loved the will-they/won’t-they vibe they had the entire time! Definitely one of my favourite sweet romances. (And Nathan Sanders? Totally made me swoon like a teenage girl.)
April 30, 2024
My first read from Jenny Proctor, I loved it! The dynamic between all the characters really made this hockey romance what it is.
If you love grumpy/sunshine, fake dating then this is definitely for you. I know this is closed door romance but I would have loved a smut scene embedded in it too, but hey, it was nice to have my imagination put to the test!
I can't wait to now go and read the rest of the series!
Thank you to net galley & ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
If you love grumpy/sunshine, fake dating then this is definitely for you. I know this is closed door romance but I would have loved a smut scene embedded in it too, but hey, it was nice to have my imagination put to the test!
I can't wait to now go and read the rest of the series!
Thank you to net galley & ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
May 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from this author.
This book had a great mix of sunshine and grumpy. Nathan is one of those grumps that you just feel for. You know they aren’t a bad person and you want to get close with them but you are also kind of scared too because they don’t show emotions well. He is so easily to relate to and very well written.
Summer is such a strong fmc. She has been through a lot and being in her field doesn’t help. I am so happy that she doesn’t let her past scar her away from anything and she still has a lot of personality.
This book had a great mix of sunshine and grumpy. Nathan is one of those grumps that you just feel for. You know they aren’t a bad person and you want to get close with them but you are also kind of scared too because they don’t show emotions well. He is so easily to relate to and very well written.
Summer is such a strong fmc. She has been through a lot and being in her field doesn’t help. I am so happy that she doesn’t let her past scar her away from anything and she still has a lot of personality.
June 20, 2024
I’m in my hockey era, I can’t get enough of The Appies!
Romancing the Grump was super swoony and amazing!
I just loved Nathan and Summer's story!
Nathan has a reputation as the brooding grump of the Appies and he is fine with things staying that way. He has no intention of dating or entering a relationship as his sole focus is hockey. When Summer takes the position of the team's legal counsel he makes a grumpy comment about parking and then proceeds to try to ignore her; until the two pretend to be in a fake relationship to help fix a social media trend that is not good for the team's image. As Nathan starts to soften, Summer sees there is a lot more to this man underneath his grumpiness.
I think I’m a little bit in love with Nathan now. On the outside he’s a grump but deep down he was the most soft-hearted cinnamon roll. He was so protective of Summer, his family, and his team. There was a lot of depth to his character and so much more hidden underneath this man. And can I just say he is definitely my favorite Appie now! I pretty much inhaled this novel. It made me laugh, but there were so many tenderhearted moments as well. There was a sweetness to Nathan and Summer that I just loved and when she finally got him to smile my heart melted. Although the two were faking their relationship for a while there was never any miscommunication between them and the relationship felt real to me from the start. The swoon factor was high and that kiss, that first very real kiss, well I'm still thinking about it. When you read it you will know. Another highlight for me was that she takes care of him scene! One of the best I have ever read and I won’t be forgetting it anytime soon. Jenny is a talented writer and did such an excellent job with this book. As soon as I finished I immediately ran to download the bonus epilogue. I could not get enough Nathan and Summer!
Things I loved:
Hockey player
Fake dating
Cinnamon roll MC
“You stole my parking space”
The players asking summer all their legal questions
The team waking Nathing up
Ice Skating
“Show me my name”
She takes care of him
That amazing kiss!
Thai food, donuts, lilies
Bonus epilogue
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I will definitely be buying a paperback for my shelf. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Romancing the Grump was super swoony and amazing!
I just loved Nathan and Summer's story!
Nathan has a reputation as the brooding grump of the Appies and he is fine with things staying that way. He has no intention of dating or entering a relationship as his sole focus is hockey. When Summer takes the position of the team's legal counsel he makes a grumpy comment about parking and then proceeds to try to ignore her; until the two pretend to be in a fake relationship to help fix a social media trend that is not good for the team's image. As Nathan starts to soften, Summer sees there is a lot more to this man underneath his grumpiness.
I think I’m a little bit in love with Nathan now. On the outside he’s a grump but deep down he was the most soft-hearted cinnamon roll. He was so protective of Summer, his family, and his team. There was a lot of depth to his character and so much more hidden underneath this man. And can I just say he is definitely my favorite Appie now! I pretty much inhaled this novel. It made me laugh, but there were so many tenderhearted moments as well. There was a sweetness to Nathan and Summer that I just loved and when she finally got him to smile my heart melted. Although the two were faking their relationship for a while there was never any miscommunication between them and the relationship felt real to me from the start. The swoon factor was high and that kiss, that first very real kiss, well I'm still thinking about it. When you read it you will know. Another highlight for me was that she takes care of him scene! One of the best I have ever read and I won’t be forgetting it anytime soon. Jenny is a talented writer and did such an excellent job with this book. As soon as I finished I immediately ran to download the bonus epilogue. I could not get enough Nathan and Summer!
Things I loved:
Hockey player
Fake dating
Cinnamon roll MC
“You stole my parking space”
The players asking summer all their legal questions
The team waking Nathing up
Ice Skating
“Show me my name”
She takes care of him
That amazing kiss!
Thai food, donuts, lilies
Bonus epilogue
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I will definitely be buying a paperback for my shelf. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 11, 2024
She was down way too bad…. Girl stand up.
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