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17 of Likewisers' Favorite Grumpy X Sunshine Romances

Published by Likewise | Nov 26, 2024Explore our curated list of delightful romantic tales where the sunny spirit meets the grumpy heart, showcasing its charm and humor through engaging narratives.

In the vibrant world of romance novels, the dynamic of the "grumpy x sunshine" trope never fails to captivate readers. This blend of contrasting characters—one a sunshine-filled optimist and the other a brooding sourpuss—invokes an irresistible tension that often leads to unexpected and heartwarming love stories. Below, discover 17 of Likewisers' favorite grumpy x sunshine romances that are sure to whisk you away into their enchanting narratives.

The Love Hypothesis

The Love Hypothesis
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In this contemporary romance by Ali Hazelwood, Ph.D. candidate Olive Smith finds herself in a sticky situation when she fakes a relationship with the intimidating but alluring Adam Carlsen. As their false bond deepens into something more genuine, Olive grapples with her evolving theories on love, turning science into a study of the heart. The chemistry between the two characters creates a delightful spark that captivates readers and makes this book an instant favorite.

It Happened One Summer

It Happened One Summer
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Tessa Bailey delivers a spicy tale as Hollywood “It Girl” Piper Bellinger is cut off from her wealthy lifestyle and sent to a small beach town to learn responsibility. There, she clashes hilariously with the grumpy sea captain Brendan. While their bickering may suggest hostility, their undeniable attraction reveals a warmth lurking beneath their playful resentments, making for a compelling summer romance that’s packed with fun and heart.

The Spanish Love Deception

The Spanish Love Deception
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In a captivating enemies-to-lovers narrative, Catalina Martín must conjure up a fake boyfriend to appease her family at her sister's wedding. Enter Aaron Blackford, her irritating colleague who unexpectedly offers to accompany her to Spain. This humorous tale explores their journey through the highs and lows of deception, revealing layers of passion and tension that will leave readers swooning.

Luna and the Lie

Luna and the Lie
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Talia Hibbert crafts a tale where secrets and heartbreak entwine. Luna Allen, who carries considerable baggage from her past, finds herself developing a complicated relationship with her boss. The tension between the likable and somewhat grumpy boss and the charming, sunny Luna forms the heart of this impactful story that resonates with readers and leaves an indelible mark.

Twisted Love

Twisted Love
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Lily's unexpected affection towards her best friend's brother, a man haunted by past traumas and considered a grump, is exquisitely portrayed in this romantic thriller by Ana Huang. The contrasts between his aloof nature and her vivacious spirit create delightful tension and emotional depth, culminating in a story of love that is both gripping and irresistible.

Act Your Age, Eve Brown

Act Your Age, Eve Brown
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This engaging story by Talia Hibbert features Eve Brown, a free spirit and certified hot mess, and Jacob Wayne, a meticulous B&B owner. Their relationship begins when Eve accidentally hits Jacob with her car, propelling them into an unexpected yet amusing romance that blurs the lines between chaos and harmony. The chemistry between the characters showcases the beauty of growth and connection in unexpected ways.

The Simple Wild

The Simple Wild
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K.A. Tucker's heartwarming romance navigates the emotional terrain of reconnecting with estranged family. City girl Calla Fletcher finds herself drawn to rugged Alaskan pilot Jonah, whose gruff demeanor clashes with her urban sensibilities. As they weather challenges together, their evolving dynamic redefines love against the backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness.

Neon Gods

Neon Gods
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As a modern retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, Katee Robert spins an exhilarating story where Persephone defies her family to find solace and love in the mysterious Hades. Their passionate relationship offers a dark and fiery dynamic that draws readers into a world of tension and romance, making it a wickedly delightful escape.

Twice Shy

Twice Shy
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Sarah Hogle’s heartfelt tale of Maybell Parish, a dreamer who inherits a rundown house, pits her against the grumpy groundskeeper, Wesley. Their banter transforms into mutual understanding as they navigate each other’s quirks and create a budding romance that delights with warmth and laughter.

We Can't Keep Meeting Like This

We Can't Keep Meeting Like This
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In this delightful romantic comedy from Rachel Lynn Solomon, Quinn, a wedding harpist, finds herself caught in the chaos of her family's wedding business and a summer spent alongside Tarek, a charming but frustrating cater-waiter. Their amusing clashes evolve into genuine feelings, making this a refreshing love story with a sprinkling of humor and heart.

The Hating Game

The Hating Game
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Get ready for a quintessential enemies-to-lovers story as Sally Thorne introduces Lucy and Joshua, whose professional rivalry shifts into something more as they vie for the same promotion. With sharp dialogue and undeniable tension, their journey will have readers both laughing and swooning as they navigate the fine line between hate and love.

Beach Read

Beach Read
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Emily Henry crafts a clever summer romance between two writers—one a hopeless romantic and the other a cynical literary author. Their friendly competition to push each other out of their writing ruts unveils deeper feelings and revelations about love and belonging, making this book a quintessential read filled with charm and wit.

The Duchess Deal

The Duchess Deal
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In this unique historical romance by Tessa Dare, Emma is determined to carve her own path when she finds herself marrying the brooding Duke of Ashbury. As she ruffles his feathers and their arrangement unfolds, sharp wit and delightful banter lead them to unexpected tenderness and love, illustrating the beauty that can arise when opposites attract.

The Highland Fling

The Highland Fling
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Meghan Quinn takes readers to the Scottish Highlands in this steamy tale where Bonnie St. James finds herself entwined with Rowan MacGregor. This mismatched pair navigate their contrasting personalities and conflicting paths, sparking chemistry alongside their distinctly different outlooks on life that lead to a humorous and heartfelt connection.

Written in the Stars

Written in the Stars
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A compelling queer rom-com, Alexandria Bellefleur introduces Darcy and Elle, two women whose polar opposite personalities fuel a fake relationship that turns unexpectedly real. With its clever nods to classic romance tropes, this story emphasizes the power of connection and the unexpected ways love can flourish under the stars.

Managed

Managed
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Kristen Callihan's romantic battle of wits presents a captivating clash between the unyielding Gabriel Scott and the vivacious ordinary girl seated next to him on a plane. As their effervescent banter transforms into chemistry, the intricacies of their personalities illuminate a connection that captivates readers, typical of endearing grumpy x sunshine narratives.

Neanderthal Seeks Human

Neanderthal Seeks Human
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In Penny Reid’s debut novel, a quirky, nerdy girl named Janie finds herself unexpectedly involved with the enigmatic Quinn Sullivan after losing everything crucial to her. The humorous and charming narrative coupled with their engaging dynamic invites readers to explore the warmth and humor of their budding romance, showcasing the alluring contrasts of the grumpy and sunny archetypes.

These 17 grumpy x sunshine romances showcase the delightful contrast of personalities that brings humor and depth to their love stories. As you immerse yourself in these tales, you'll undoubtedly find that opposites do attract and that beneath the surface of grumpiness lies the ability to love fiercely and completely. Dive into these novels for a heartwarming blend of comedy, romance, and unforgettable characters.

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