A review by tyras_bookshelf
Work for It by Talia Hibbert

adventurous challenging emotional funny inspiring tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I was a little skeptical and confused at first by Olu’s dramatic inner monologue. I literally thought he was a previous human turned alien looking for love (and I would have loved to read about it) but really he’s just a heartsore human looking to run away from his troubles. I get it, join the club. 

So he flits off to this little town (in the same universe as Hibbert’s The Fake Boyfriend Fiasco and Untouchable so there are some fun cameos) where he meets our lovely resident grump Griff. 
Griff (with a ton of dead mama issues and a general lack of self-esteem because the people of the village treat him terribly) and Olu (with a ton of alive but abusive daddy issue and maybe too much entitlement but also a bruised, and rightfully so, ego) hit it off in a weird, grumpy, flirty sort of way that makes you think the book will be an immediate “lovers” vibe. 
 
Plot twist: not so much! 
 
So they are into each other but Olu has some trauma and lashes out—the man is like 36 and needs some therapy. Not judging his journey but being mean isn’t hot—which makes it very awkward when Olu shows up the next day at Griff’s job! I really thought his fake reason for being in the village and visiting the farm was gonna mean more later and it doesn't which feels like a miss but there was plenty of drama between the men so that's fine. 
 
It’s forced proximity, two grumpys no sunshines, small town romance, some very spicy scenes, and eventual improved communication but the friendly, flirty, “enemy” thing got kinda exhausting TBH. Overall a very fun, HEA with stellar character growth and connection—as to be expected with Mrs. Talia Hibbert. 


BTW, Griff is my favorite and I would definitely choose him if they broke up. 
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