THE GRUMP WHISPERER by Kate James. The story is set in the world of horse shows or rather about horse riders forced into early retirement. The backdrop is a working, horse boarding farm.

The lead pair Bronwen and Ian are at the farm in the manager and owner's capacity respectively, though their reasons are the same to be there, surrounded by horses they love and to lick their wounds in silence. The time at the farm means recalibrating their lives and being around each other proves mutually beneficial.

Ian wishes to be left alone wanting nothing to do with the farm he's sitting for his sister. He is recovering from physical and emotional wounds and his first meeting with farm manager Bronwen is anything but a meet cute. 

Ian's first impression is that of a confirmed grump yet Bronwen, reluctant maybe, finds herself attracted to him. Her friends and boarders are sure they can convince her to work with her attraction and get the reclusive new owner to make a move on the pending farm tasks. So Bronwen becomes the Grump Whisperer.

• The setting- I enjoyed this immersive setting not only as a refreshing backdrop but the characters were very much in sync with their surroundings. It was an integral part of the story which always adds a nice dimension and depth to the story.
• I enjoyed knowing both Bronwen and Ian. Their dynamic was a slow burn, playful at times and their organic non-dates were totally fun. 
• I was invested in the pair right from the start and the story flew easily. The added bonus was the horses and their owners, they make up for a fun, happy supporting cast. 
• Also, the open-door spice was just the right amount, and happy to say no reference to any livestock despite it being there within easy access. 

I liked THE GRUMP WHISPERER for its setting, slow-burn love story and the adorable cast of horses and their owners. Pick up a copy for the sweet, grumpy yet playful characters.