Muffins, Hockey, and Heartbeats

Grayson Darling, a tough, stoic high school hockey player, is hopelessly in love with his best friend, Paige Price. Paige, a ray of sunshine with a penchant for disastrous baking, is oblivious to Grayson's feelings. After a hockey game, Paige brings her latest muffin experiment to the locker room, and Grayson, ever the loyal friend, forces his teammates to eat them despite their horror. Their easy banter and mutual support are clear, but beneath the surface, Grayson's affection is tinged with longing and fear of ruining their friendship. Paige, meanwhile, is adrift, pressured by her parents to plan her future, and clings to her ever-growing bucket list of things to try before graduation. Their lives are intertwined, but both are stuck in patterns—Grayson hiding his heart, Paige searching for purpose.

Unwanted Houseguest, Unspoken Feelings

When Paige's parents leave town for work, she's sent to live with the Darling family for two weeks. The arrangement is both a comfort and a complication: Paige feels more at home with the Darlings than in her own house, but sharing space with Grayson intensifies their unspoken connection. Their routines—family dinners, homework, and late-night talks—are filled with warmth and laughter, but also with moments of awkwardness and longing. Grayson's protectiveness is both a shield and a barrier, and Paige's uncertainty about her future is mirrored in her uncertainty about her feelings. The house is chaotic, loving, and full of life, but the emotional stakes are quietly rising.

Bucket Lists and Boy Repellent

Paige's secret bucket list becomes a point of contention when Grayson's brother Parker discovers it, especially the unchecked item: "My first kiss." Parker teases her, but also points out that Grayson's intimidating presence has scared off every potential suitor. Paige is mortified but begins to wonder if her lack of romantic experience is really her fault. The realization that Grayson might be the reason no boys approach her is both frustrating and oddly flattering. Meanwhile, Grayson is forced to confront the consequences of his overprotectiveness, and Paige's quest for her first kiss becomes a catalyst for both of them to examine what they really want.

The Kiss Conundrum

Paige, determined not to graduate high school without her first kiss, enlists Grayson's help—not as a candidate, but as a wingman. She asks him to stop scaring off boys and even to talk her up to potential suitors. Grayson, torn between his desire to protect her and his own feelings, reluctantly agrees. Their conversations become more charged, and the boundaries of their friendship blur as they navigate jealousy, awkwardness, and the pain of wanting what they can't have. Paige's focus on her bucket list goal blinds her to the possibility that the right person might be closer than she thinks.

Enter: The Boy Who Got Away

Damien Stone, Paige's first crush and childhood friend, moves back to town and joins the hockey team. His arrival is a shock to both Paige and Grayson—Paige is swept up in nostalgia and possibility, while Grayson is consumed by jealousy and insecurity. Damien's easy charm and history with Paige make him the perfect candidate for her first kiss, at least in the eyes of her friends. Grayson's internal struggle intensifies as he tries to be supportive while watching Paige gravitate toward someone else. The love triangle is set, and the stakes are higher than ever.

Rivalries and Resurfacing Crushes

Damien quickly becomes a star on the hockey team and a fixture in Paige's life. Grayson's rivalry with him is both professional and personal, as he fears losing his spot on the team and his place in Paige's heart. Paige, meanwhile, is torn between the comfort of her friendship with Grayson and the excitement of rekindling her crush on Damien. The tension between the boys is palpable, and Paige's attempts to move forward with her bucket list goal only deepen the emotional complexity. The friend zone feels more like a prison for Grayson, and Paige is oblivious to the depth of his feelings.

Operation Shrek: Friend Zone Intervention

Grayson's friends and brothers, tired of watching him pine for Paige, stage a humorous but heartfelt intervention. They present "Operation Shrek," a plan to help Grayson escape the friend zone and win Paige's heart. The plan is equal parts ridiculous and sincere, involving makeovers, flirting lessons, and strategic interference. Grayson is resistant, convinced that Paige could never see him as more than a friend, but the intervention plants a seed of hope. The group's camaraderie and support highlight the importance of friendship, even as they push Grayson toward vulnerability and risk.

Flirting Fails and Practice Dates

Paige's efforts to flirt with Damien are a disaster—she's nervous, clumsy, and self-conscious, leading to a series of embarrassing moments. Grayson, seeing her struggle, offers to "coach" her in flirting, setting up practice sessions that are both hilarious and charged with unspoken desire. Their chemistry is undeniable, but both are afraid to cross the line. As they spend more time together, the distinction between practice and reality blurs, and Grayson begins to hope that Paige might see him differently. Paige, meanwhile, is confused by her own reactions, unsure if her feelings are changing or if she's just desperate to succeed.

Makeovers, Mishaps, and Mixed Signals

Bonnie, Paige's best friend, insists on giving her a makeover to boost her confidence and catch Damien's eye. Grayson, reluctantly roped into the shopping trip, is both amused and unsettled by Paige's new look. The makeover is a turning point—Paige feels more confident, but also more aware of Grayson's attention. Their interactions become increasingly charged, and a playful flour fight in the kitchen nearly leads to a confession. But just as the moment heats up, Paige blurts out that Damien has asked her out, shattering the tension and leaving both of them reeling. The emotional whiplash is intense, and neither knows how to move forward.

Storms, Secrets, and Sleepovers

A thunderstorm triggers Paige's childhood fears, and she seeks comfort in Grayson's room. They spend the night together—innocently, but intimately—sharing stories and soothing each other's anxieties. The experience is transformative, deepening their bond and forcing both to confront the depth of their feelings. The next day, the awkwardness is palpable, but the connection between them is stronger than ever. Paige begins to question her pursuit of Damien, while Grayson wonders if he can keep pretending that friendship is enough.

The Interview Game

Paige is recruited to write player profiles for the school paper, giving her an excuse to interact with Damien and the rest of the hockey team. The interviews are revealing—Grayson's answers are playful but sincere, and Paige is struck by his vulnerability. Damien, meanwhile, asks Paige out on a real date, and she hesitates, unsure of what she truly wants. The process of interviewing the boys, and especially Grayson, forces Paige to see him in a new light. The lines between friendship, attraction, and love become increasingly blurred.

The Game-Changing Hit

During a crucial game, Grayson is injured in a brutal hit and knocked unconscious on the ice. The incident is a wake-up call for everyone, especially Paige, who realizes how much she truly cares for him. The hospital scene is tense and emotional—Paige, the Darling family, and the team rally around Grayson as he recovers. The injury also forces Grayson to confront his own limitations and fears about his future, both in hockey and in love. The crisis strips away pretense, leaving only what matters most.

Confessions Under the Stars

After Grayson's recovery, he plans a "practice date" for Paige—a magical night of pizza, stargazing, and heartfelt conversation. The date is everything Paige has ever wanted, and the boundaries between practice and reality dissolve. Under the stars, Grayson finally confesses his love, and Paige admits she feels the same. Their first kiss is tender, electric, and long overdue. The moment is both an ending and a beginning, as they move from friendship to something deeper, built on years of trust and affection.

New Beginnings, New Dreams

With their feelings finally out in the open, Grayson and Paige face new challenges—Grayson's knee injury threatens his hockey career, and Paige must decide what she wants for her future. Both learn to be honest with themselves and each other, supporting one another through uncertainty and change. Paige discovers a passion for sports journalism, and Grayson finds peace in letting go of perfection. Their relationship, once fraught with fear and longing, becomes a source of strength and joy. As they look toward college and beyond, they know that whatever comes next, they'll face it together.

Characters

Grayson Darling

Grayson is the quintessential "grumpy" love interest: quiet, brooding, and fiercely loyal. As a star hockey player, he's used to being seen as tough and intimidating, but beneath the surface, he's deeply sensitive and self-sacrificing. His love for Paige is the central force in his life, shaping his actions and decisions. Grayson's protectiveness is both his strength and his flaw—he shields Paige from harm but also from the truth of his feelings. His journey is one of vulnerability: learning to risk his heart, accept help, and believe he's worthy of love. His relationships with his brothers and teammates reveal his softer side, and his growth is marked by moments of courage, honesty, and tenderness.

Paige Price

Paige is bright, optimistic, and endlessly curious, but also plagued by self-doubt and indecision. Her bucket list is both a coping mechanism and a quest for identity, as she struggles to meet her parents' expectations and find her own path. Paige's warmth draws people in, but she's often oblivious to the effect she has on others—especially Grayson. Her journey is about self-discovery: learning to trust her instincts, embrace her desires, and recognize the love that's been in front of her all along. Paige's humor, resilience, and kindness make her a beloved friend, but it's her willingness to be vulnerable that ultimately leads to her happiness.

Damien Stone

Damien is the returning childhood friend and Paige's first crush, whose arrival upends the status quo. He's confident, friendly, and talented, quickly becoming a star on the hockey team and a contender for Paige's affection. Damien's presence forces both Grayson and Paige to confront their feelings and make choices. Though he's initially positioned as a rival, Damien is ultimately supportive and gracious, accepting Paige's decision and remaining a positive force in the group. He represents the road not taken and the importance of facing the past to move forward.

Parker Darling

Parker, Grayson's younger brother, is the joker of the family—irreverent, outspoken, and always ready with a quip. He's the first to tease Grayson about his feelings for Paige, but also the first to support him when it matters. Parker's lack of filter often leads to awkward but necessary conversations, and his willingness to meddle is both a blessing and a curse. Beneath the humor, Parker is deeply loyal and perceptive, often seeing the truth before others do. His role is to push Grayson out of his comfort zone and remind everyone not to take life too seriously.

Reed Darling

Reed, Grayson's twin, is the team captain and the family's golden boy. He's confident, responsible, and quietly supportive, often acting as a mediator between Grayson and the rest of the world. Reed's relationship with Grayson is complex—marked by rivalry, camaraderie, and deep understanding. He's the first to encourage Grayson to take risks and the last to judge him for his mistakes. Reed's own romantic subplot with Violet adds depth to his character, showing his capacity for love and vulnerability.

Bonnie

Bonnie is Paige's best friend and the driving force behind many of the book's schemes. She's fearless, outspoken, and fiercely protective, always pushing Paige to step outside her comfort zone. Bonnie's role as the school newspaper editor gives her access to gossip and influence, and her interventions—makeovers, interviews, and pep talks—are both comic and crucial. She's the voice of tough love, unafraid to call out nonsense and demand honesty. Bonnie's loyalty and energy are infectious, making her an indispensable part of Paige's journey.

Cammie Darling

Cammie, the only Darling sister, is known for her sharp tongue and intimidating presence. As a figure skater, she's disciplined and driven, often clashing with her brothers and their friends. Beneath her tough exterior, Cammie is caring and protective, especially of Paige. Her dry humor and no-nonsense attitude provide balance to the group's chaos, and her moments of vulnerability reveal a depth that few see. Cammie's arc is about embracing her own strengths and learning to let others in.

Amy and Danny Darling

Amy and Danny are the heart of the Darling household—loving, supportive, and a little bit messy. Their home is a haven for Paige, offering the warmth and acceptance she lacks from her own parents. Amy's well-meaning but disastrous cooking and Danny's laid-back wisdom create an environment where everyone feels welcome. Their relationship with Paige is parental and nurturing, providing the stability and encouragement she needs to grow. They represent the power of chosen family and unconditional love.

Paige's Mom

Paige's mother is a source of pressure and conflict, pushing her daughter to plan for the future and meet high expectations. Her workaholic tendencies and emotional distance create a void in Paige's life, but her own struggles—job loss, insecurity—are eventually revealed. Their relationship is fraught but ultimately redemptive, as both learn to communicate honestly and accept each other's flaws. Paige's mom's journey mirrors her daughter's: learning to let go of control and trust in the unknown.

Matt

Matt is Reed's best friend and a key member of the hockey team. He provides comic relief, practical advice, and unwavering support to both Grayson and Paige. His easygoing nature and willingness to call out nonsense make him a grounding presence in the group. Matt's own romantic misadventures and loyalty to his friends add depth to his character, and his role in "Operation Shrek" is both hilarious and heartfelt.

Plot Devices

Dual POV and Alternating Narration

The novel alternates between Grayson and Paige's perspectives, allowing readers to experience both sides of the story. This structure creates dramatic irony—readers know the characters' true feelings even when they don't—and heightens the emotional stakes. The dual POV also allows for nuanced exploration of internal conflict, as both characters struggle with vulnerability, fear, and desire. The alternating narration keeps the pacing brisk and the tension high, as each chapter reveals new layers of misunderstanding, longing, and growth.

The Bucket List

Paige's bucket list is more than a plot device—it's a metaphor for her quest for identity and fulfillment. Each item represents a step toward self-discovery, and the unchecked "first kiss" becomes the central driver of the plot. The list's evolution—from a source of pressure to a symbol of agency—mirrors Paige's growth. Its eventual destruction signifies her readiness to embrace uncertainty and trust herself. The bucket list also serves as a narrative engine, propelling the characters into new situations and forcing them to confront their fears.

The Friend Zone and "Operation Shrek"

The friend zone is both a source of humor and pain, shaping the characters' interactions and internal struggles. "Operation Shrek," the friends' intervention to help Grayson escape the friend zone, is a playful but sincere attempt to force change. The plan's absurdity highlights the futility of trying to engineer love, but it also provides a safe space for vulnerability and risk. The intervention's failure is ultimately what pushes Grayson to be honest, proving that love can't be strategized—it must be felt and spoken.

Flirting Lessons and Practice Dates

The "flirting coach" subplot allows Grayson and Paige to explore their chemistry in a low-stakes environment, but the safety of practice quickly gives way to real feelings. The lessons are both comic and poignant, as each character discovers what they truly want. The practice date, in particular, is a turning point—what begins as a rehearsal becomes a genuine expression of love. This device allows the characters to cross boundaries they might otherwise avoid, accelerating their emotional growth.

The Hockey Injury

Grayson's injury is the novel's emotional climax, forcing all characters to confront what matters most. The fear of loss strips away pretense and denial, leading to honest conversations and confessions. The injury also serves as a metaphor for vulnerability—Grayson must accept help, let go of control, and trust others. The crisis unites the community, tests relationships, and ultimately leads to healing and hope.

Symbolism: Storms, Stars, and Home

Storms recur throughout the novel as symbols of fear, change, and emotional upheaval. Paige's fear of storms mirrors her fear of the unknown, and Grayson's comfort during storms represents safety and love. Stars and stargazing are motifs of hope, dreams, and the vastness of possibility—wishing on stars becomes a metaphor for daring to want more. The concept of home—both the Darling house and Grayson himself—anchors the characters, reminding them that love is both a refuge and a risk.

Analysis

Grumpy Darling is a masterclass in the friends-to-lovers romance, blending humor, vulnerability, and emotional depth into a story that feels both timeless and fresh. At its core, the novel is about the courage to risk comfort for the possibility of something greater—whether that's love, purpose, or self-acceptance. Through dual perspectives, Alexandra Moody explores the ways we hide from our own desires, the pain of unspoken feelings, and the transformative power of honesty. The bucket list, the friend zone, and the practice date are not just plot devices but metaphors for the journey from fear to hope. The book's greatest strength lies in its characters: Grayson's stoic tenderness, Paige's effervescent uncertainty, and the vibrant supporting cast create a world that is both chaotic and deeply loving. The story's resolution—rooted in communication, mutual support, and the willingness to embrace the unknown—offers a modern, realistic take on happily ever after. Grumpy Darling reminds us that love is not about grand gestures or perfect timing, but about showing up, being seen, and choosing each other, again and again.

Last updated: September 14, 2025