Grumpy darling by Alexandra Moody

Grumpy Darling is the charming second book in Alexandra Moody’s Darling Devils series, a clean YA contemporary romance set in ice hockey-loving towns of Sunshine Hill and Ransom, Minnesota. This book features two best friends, Paige and Grayson, as they turn their years of friendship into something more, with plenty of slow-burn tension, funny banter, and emotional moments along the way.

Paige Price is one of those characters you instantly like. She’s bright, funny, and determined to check everything off her high school bucket list before graduation - including getting her first kiss. Watching her step outside her comfort zone, figure out what she really wants, and grow more confident makes her journey feels personal and real.

Grayson Darling, her grumpy but protective best friend and the school’s hockey team’s enforcer, hides a soft side beneath his fearsome reputation. He’s been in love with Paige since childhood but has kept those feelings bottled up - until she asks him to help her find someone to kiss. His emotional struggles and gradual journey toward taking a leap of faith make him an engaging romantic lead.

Told through both Paige’s and Grayson’s points of view, Grumpy Darling is fast-paced, character-driven, and packed with heartfelt moments. It explores unspoken emotions, close bonds, and self-doubt with charm and wit. I’d honestly recommend this to readers who enjoy slow-burn romance, and friends-to-lovers tropes that feel both fun and emotionally real. It’s a satisfying, swoon-worthy read that left me smiling and eager for the next book.

Perfect for fans of Bal Khabra, Lynn Painter, Jenny Han, and Lauren Roberts’ Powerless.

Themes: Identity, Vulnerability, Trust, Stereotypes, First love.

Jiya Sharma (Student)