Book Review: Grumpy Darling by Alexandra Moody
When I first stumbled across Grumpy Darling, the second installment in Alexandra Moody’s Darling Devils series, I felt a familiar spark of excitement. The combination of first kisses, hockey, and a good old-fashioned slow-burn romance was like catnip for my book-loving heart. Alexandra’s previous work had left me enchanted, and I couldn’t resist diving back into her warm world of teen adventures.
Grumpy Darling centers on Paige, a high school senior who has ticked off everything on her bucket list—except for one monumental milestone: her first kiss. Enter Grayson Darling, the school hockey team’s notorious enforcer and Paige’s stubborn best friend, who has inadvertently scared off any potential suitors. In a twist of fate, Paige decides that rather than being protected, she wants Grayson to coach her dating life, embarking on a delightful journey filled with pining and self-discovery.
One of the most notable aspects of this novel is the dynamic between Paige and Grayson. Paige’s awkwardness and genuine vulnerability make her relatable, while Grayson’s grumpy exterior hides a heart of gold. Their slow-burn relationship is beautifully crafted, filled with moments where you might just squeal and cover your face in that delightful “I-can’t-handle-how-cute-this-is” way. The tension builds in such a skillful manner that I found myself holding my breath during pivotal scenes, eagerly waiting for their chemistry to ignite.
Alexandra’s writing style is effortlessly engaging. She possesses an uncanny ability to create vivid, relatable characters, and her prose flows with an easy charm that makes the pages turn all too quickly. I often found myself marking noteworthy quotes, like Grayson’s sweet yet exasperated musings about his feelings for Paige. One moment that particularly stood out was when Grayson, despite his tough exterior, softly reassures Paige that practicing for her big moment doesn’t reflect any inadequacy—it’s just part of growing up. That blend of humor, warmth, and sincerity encapsulated the book’s essence and resonated with my own experiences of young love.
But what truly enriched my reading experience was the exploration of friendship alongside romance. The camaraderie shared among the hockey team and the banter infused throughout the narrative added an extra layer of enjoyment. It reminded me of those carefree school days when friendships blossomed in the simplest of moments.
As I closed the book, a content smile spread across my face. Grumpy Darling is not just a tale of a first kiss; it’s a celebration of the beauty of friendships, the messiness of growing up, and the courage it takes to embrace your feelings. The joy, the laughter, and even the heart-fluttering moments make this an addictive read for fans of young adult fiction, romance enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a good slow-burn narrative.
If you loved Rival Darling or are searching for a wholesome escape filled with lovable characters riding the highs and lows of teenage life, Grumpy Darling deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s a heartwarming reminder of how love can sneak up on you when you least expect it—a perfect blend of charm, humor, and endless swoon-worthy moments.
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