A review by lauriereadsrom1
The Grumpy Billionaire by Annika Martin

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Following a tough breakup, branding expert Stella Woodward moves to New York City for a fresh start. She's excitedly preparing for the first day at her dream job when her prospective employer calls to inform her that they've decided to go in a "different direction" with the position. There's no job for Stella after all, and she's left scrambling to find another way to pay the bills. In an effort to be helpful, Stella's parents call her older brother's best friend, math genius Hugo Jones, who arranges a job for her in the admin pool at the hedge fund where he works. The only catch is that she must pretend not to know him. Swallowing her pride, Stella accepts the offer, though her gratitude quickly turns to anger when she finds out that Hugo is the reason she lost out on her dream job. This discovery sets off a battle of wills that each of them is determined to win.
 
This was such a fun story! Hugo and Stella were both incredibly likeable, three-dimensional characters, and their sparkling, witty banter kept me laughing all the way to the end. Even after ten years apart, their secret feelings for each other remained strong, and I couldn't wait for them to finally act on their attraction. Their personalities balanced each other perfectly and I loved cheering them on to their HEA.
 
I highly recommend "The Grumpy Billionaire" for all contemporary romance and rom-com fans and can't wait for the author's next release.
 
*Review copy provided by the author via Valentine PR. All opinions expressed are my own.