When Grumpy Met Sunshine by Charlotte Stein ~ a Review

by MK French

Grumpy ex-footballer Alfie Harding is convinced to sell his memoirs, but he knows he can't write it himself. He hates revealing anything or dealing with emotions, so he meets curvy and cheerful ghostwriter Mabel Willicker. She tends to sass her way into getting those details out of Alfie, and the banter is mistaken for a budding romance. This makes for great publicity, but it soon feels like a very real slow-burn romance.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

February 2024; Griffin; 978-1250867933
audio, ebook, print (336 pages); romantic comedy

The meet-cute at the start isn't cute; Alfie is gruff and Mabel is sure he insulted her size by calling her a cupcake. His attempts to correct that impression are hilariously wrong. He is often surly and grumbling, literally responding to comments, and sure that rapid-fire conversation is a way to insult him. The two have an easy camaraderie and similar backgrounds. They get along very well and desire each other, so they lean into the media's assumptions that they're a couple when Alfie defends her to a bunch of random men putting her down because of her weight. Both assume the other doesn't really love them, so it takes the grand gesture to clear the air and allow the happily ever after. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and spending time with Mabel and Alfie. 

Buy When Grumpy Met Sunshine at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and a golden retriever.

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