Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Hunter Brothers #4

The Panty Melter

Rate this book
An Enemies to Lovers/Boss's Big Brother/Grumpy Fighter Pilot with a Heart of Gold Romance

Deacon Hunter is domineering. Condescending. Infuriating.
And yet I can't seem to keep my panties on for five minutes when we're alone together.


He keeps melting them right off. With that sexy voice, those confident hands, the way he brings my body wildly to life, he's proved my libido hasn't gone into permanent, post-divorce hibernation after all.

Surely there's no harm in being enemies with benefits... Right?

***
When Violet Boden asks me to take her Divorce Virginity, the only thing I can think is--come again?

No, seriously, come again.


And again and again, until both of us are so satisfied we can't remember the people who did us wrong.

Best if we keep conversation to a minimum, though, considering I drive her crazy. She drives me crazy sometimes, too. But she's also sweet, loyal, fearless, and so much fun she's making it damn hard not to fall for her.

But how to convince a woman who's put me in the emotional no-fly zone that I deserve a place in her heart? Not just her panties...

262 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 26, 2019

335 people are currently reading
917 people want to read

About the author

Lili Valente

154 books4,015 followers
Visit Lili at www.lilivalente.com

Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.

*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
557 (42%)
4 stars
490 (37%)
3 stars
200 (15%)
2 stars
38 (2%)
1 star
15 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
Profile Image for Amsa.
270 reviews53 followers
March 17, 2020
Everything about this novel is OTT. I don't know how so many liked it, maybe it's the case of EVERYONE LIKED IT BUT ME but I really HATED this novel.
Let me begin by telling you the reason I write reviews. It's mostly because I hated the novel and want to RANT. Otherwise my rating speaks for me. I even read the reviews with spoilers or less ratings because I want to know WHY my GR friends didn't like the book then I read ask the positive reviews.

My rating
* Horrible /Hated this novel
** OK read /Disappointed
*** Good /Average
**** Very Good / Interesting
***** Awesome /Mind blown/LOVED IT

As you can see my rating you have correctly guessed that I HATED THIS NOVEL and MY REVIEWS WILL BE FULL OF RANT AND SPOILERS.

Spoilers alter.

When I first realized the next novel will be about Deacon and Violet both 40+ and parents I was expecting a SWEET MATURE LOVE STORY with different twist and turns with adult problems.

But I WAS SO DISAPPOINTED. Let me remind you it's written by one of MY FAVORITE AUTHORS. Maybe this hurts the most. I've delayed reading this novel because I wanted to read it when I was free and will pay 100% attention to it.
So I finished my laundry, clean the house and other chores. Now just imagine my disappointment when this novel was nothing what I hoped for or you can say wanted.

I liked more than half of the novel but what actually ruined it for me was not only the H's ex husband's wife gets pregnant along with with her daughter but then even SHE gets pregnant. This all happens at the same time just a few months gap. These people are 40+and H even took care of the problem Twice but it failed. Really? How stupid do you think we are? There's something called biological clock.

Then to top it all off she becomes BFF with her ex's wife, the woman who seduced and snatched her husband of 20+years. They all become one big happy family a few months later, celebrating birthday of Children and grandchildren together.

Some one should also teach her about tough love along with sweet love. How she was able to trust her daughter I have no idea.

To understand my frustration you need to read this book better yet save yourself time and don't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carmen Rae.
1,622 reviews184 followers
March 27, 2019
Oh my god I am such an idiot. Why don't I ever read the book information for these books before my grabby hands get me in trouble? So I just realised that this is book 4 in a series. And obviously not being aware of that I haven't read the previous books except for the first one, which I really enjoyed and was what got me hooked on this author in the first place. But damn I hope this can be read as a standalone.

Ok crisis averted this is a great standalone and even though I have gone back and added the other two to the TBR mountain I am relieved I haven't missed anything story altering. Also with my goldfish memory I will be alright.

Now back to this book. So for the first 50 percent there was a lot of smoking hot chemistry followed by a lot of steamy encounters and I was fully on board for it just to be a whole heap more of that. In fact I was really enjoying it. Both characters were really likable and the few secondary characters were good value.

But then bam major plot twist and story line and my I will just read a few chapters to help me sleep became a can't put it down until I see how it all plays out. And I was kind of a little judgey when I first finished thinking it was a little unrealistic until I realised I am kinda living part of that. And so as not to ruin it for you I am going to let you find out for yourself. Your welcome.

So yeah overall this was a fun book with loads of chemistry and laughs that still managed to have a fairly decent story without being wickedly long. It ticks a heap of my boxes. And now I have to Google WTF salamanders are. Oh and I really have to say that although the cover is smoking hot and I love it, it really doesn't work with the characters maturity.
Profile Image for Tee loves Kyle Jacobson.
2,499 reviews176 followers
March 27, 2019
I have to say that I have been reading some serious kick arse romance books and this was one of them. This is an enemies to lovers story that will have you laughing, and screaming at your kindle all at the same time. I laughed so hard at Violet's actions and behaviors she is one of my favorite romance characters.

Violet dislikes Deacon and she makes no qualms about saying so to him but she also likes him and she wants his body like no ones business. Every look and every touch brings her to her knees because deacon knows how to be a lover not a fighter. But Deacon also wants Violet for more than a booty call he wants her to be his and he is determined to show her that he is serious about them being together for real and no more booty calls.

These are standalones but I am going to go back and read the first three books because this is a PHENOMENAL romance story.
Profile Image for J. Grayland.
Author 7 books127 followers
August 1, 2019
Deacon Hunter is domineering. Condescending. Infuriating.
And yet I can't seem to keep my panties on for five minutes when we're alone together.
I did like this book in the series with it's little more mature midlife look on romance and dealing with grown children and ex husbands. The story line was sweet with most of the action right at the end, the chemistry between the character was warm and seductive and the sex was hot, overall this was a great read.
Profile Image for Love & Lavender Book Review.
484 reviews40 followers
March 26, 2019
PHEW! Deacon is a serious heart melter, let along setting some serious flames a fire. Lili Valente once again gives us a steamy, quick read full of passion, heat, and heart.

A fun and flirty enemies to lovers, Deacon and Violet are not looking for anything romantic, let alone a relationship. But neither of them can resist the serious chemistry that's blasting off between them. They seriously can't keep their hands off each other. I love that both Violet and Deacon are a little older, both with kids in college and both divorced. That's where the similarities ended though, each with their own unique traits and outlook on life. Violet is a great balance to Deacon's rough military background. She's sweet, caring, a natural nurturer, while Deacon is a lead-with-your heard, ask questions later kinda guy. While finally delving into their undeniable attraction, they both find there's more to their relationship than an insatiable spark.

Lili Valente is always a crowd pleaser with fun, sexy, and funny rom coms. The Hunter family series has delivered every time. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a light-hearted read full of heat and chemistry.

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Laura.
585 reviews5 followers
March 26, 2019
This book was so hard to put down! The progress of Violet & Deacon’s relationship from being annoyed by each other, to flirty friends, to so much more was entrancing. I liked that there was just enough drama to keep the story moving without making it angsty. I really enjoyed this book!
Profile Image for Alex in Spades.
865 reviews39 followers
March 31, 2019
It was going so good, and wonderful. And I adored the heat between Deacon and Violet. But then the unnecesary, in my opinion, drama happened, and the last few chapters made me roll my eyes a bit. Overall I had fun, but I have to say that this one is my least favorite in this series.
Profile Image for Emily (Mrs B's Books).
1,679 reviews84 followers
March 8, 2019
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**

Finally we get Deacon's story and as we have seen him in previous books i was really looking forward to reading this one.

Both Deacon and Violet do not want a forever person again, Deacon is happy having one night stands and Violet does not want Deacon in any way.

However after a party where things get heated between them, things take a dramatic turn when Violet flees wanting nothing to do with Deacon and his panty melting ways.

The chemistry between the pair is there with every moment and every word and it is so nice to have characters in their 40's with older children instead of 20 or 30 somethings who have very little baggage to bring into a relationship.

I was captivated with this story from the first word until the last word and with true Lilil fashion it fed my emotions and my need to keep turning the page, keeping myself invested in all of the characters and the world that they inhabit.
Profile Image for Nikki  M (Hot books and Sassy girls).
1,061 reviews92 followers
March 2, 2019
Violet Boden has been divorced for two years. Her family is all grown up and her youngest daughter is 18. Where has the time gone? While trying to get her dating shoes on again, she finds that she is stood up a few times too many. But when she meets a stranger with a mask on, the attraction is too strong to pass up a moment of insanity. When she removes the mask, she is shocked to find Deacon Hunter. Deacon can’t believe the Violet runs from him. Is he that horrible? One thing he knows for sure is that he is attracted to her. Violet is a character that is true to herself, she is selfless and has found comfort in her friends. Yet she can’t help the attraction she has for Deacon. But the man infuriates her and riles her up at every given moment. Can these two move past just the lust they feel for one another and have something more? And what is her youngest daughter getting up to that is so secretive? I really enjoyed this story. The light banter between the two characters was comical. The push and pull, the un-sureness of what they were getting into and the fear of taking the steps that could lead to heartbreak all over again, really made you sympathise with them both. The author did a superb job of describing the settings and you could clearly visualise where they were. I liked both characters and loved they were both strong and had a backbone. I adored how the plot thickened with Addie and Jacob. I would love to read their story. The author delivered a cleverly crafted, second chance story and I found myself completely infatuated with the writing and the cast of characters. Overall a sweet and sexy read.
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
Profile Image for Michelle Brace (Wicked Babes Blog Reviews).
1,736 reviews15 followers
March 27, 2019
A great stories of two people who can't seem to go without fighting but can't keep their hands off each other. What happens when they decide to take all that sexual frustration away and work toward something more.

Both of these characters were not looking for a serious relationship necessarily. She is looking to start dating and find someone so she isn't lonely but not necessarily for love. He on the other hand has been pretty much single for 20 years and is looking to do something about the chemistry they have. He is wanting to throw in the towel when it comes to her but he can't seem to do so.

What happens when she finally stops fighting him? Will they find more than they are looking for? What happens when hurdles are thrown in their way? What happens when the past comes a knocking? Will they be able to find a way to work as partners or will all be lost?

I have yet to read the first three in this series but I am intrigued and definitely think I will be checking them out. I loved the characters and story line and think I would really enjoy the first books in this series as well. Needless to say, if this is your first you will enjoy it without reading the others first as well.
Profile Image for Lynn Reynolds.
1,698 reviews39 followers
March 26, 2019
Rating: 4.5 Stars

Violet Boden seems to be having a string of bad luck. Deacon Hunter may just have met his match. I loved how the author twisted things because he did and she didn’t. It made it very easy to follow so that I could watch for the turnaround point – that doesn’t mean it felt predictable either. Loved the fact that this is a second chance for two people over the age of thirty.

This is one of those stories where you’re not laughing at the character’s expense. It’s more like you’re laughing with them. This story is actually pretty sweet. There are moments of tension and steam but the heat is more of a simmer. And the author knows how to use that to tease. There’s just enough for you to fill in the blanks or to leave it up to your imagination.

Our author makes it real by adding in some unexpected things that a lot of people go through. Sometimes there are bumps in the road that can test any relationship. The true test is whether or not the couple can get through the storm. As the ending crept closer, I loved how the author added in another twist that had me sit up and take notice. And speaking of ending, the author gave me a suggestion of what I may want to read next – plus a sneak peek.

I went into the story not knowing that this was part of a series. That lets me know that you can consider this a standalone and could probably read about the brothers in any order. So I may have to put the author’s suggestion on the backburner since I have some Hunter Brothers to check out. Maybe you will feel the same way. It certainly left me looking forward to reading more of Ms. Valente’s work.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
5,625 reviews195 followers
March 19, 2019
5 Star Review of The Panty Melter (Hunter Brothers #4) By Lili Valente 
I have read several books in this series and I could not wait to read what was in store for Deacon Hunter and the woman who would bring him to his knees Violet Boden. An enemies to lovers story that was absolutely captivating to read.
A chance meeting at a masquerade party has Deacon and Violet hot for one another until she realizes who he is and runs.
Deacon is an infuriating, arrogant man who manages to drive Violet up the wall, as she does him on occasion. I actually fell hard and fast for Deacon, there is something about him that I loved, perhaps it is that he and Violet are in their forties and are both divorced and not in their twenties looking for their first love.
Neither Deacon or Violet want a committed relationship, in fact Violet doesn’t even want or like Deacon, or so she thinks. Declan is attracted to Violet but after her running from him at the party, he is not sure she is interested. Can enemies become lovers with benefits, without commitment?
The chemistry between Deacon and Violet is intense and they find it hard to ignore. What will happen when emotions come in to play and casual becomes anything but? Can Deacon and Violet get the happily ever after that they both deserve?
This was a fun, quirky, flirtatious read that ticked all the boxes for me and had me invested from the start. One click this little gem, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,887 reviews116 followers
March 27, 2019
5 Stars!

The Hunter Brothers are back with the next unforgettable standalone in what has turned out to be a brilliantly addicting series and I just can't get enough of all the words y'all.

Sexy. Swoony. Fun. Flirty. Enemies to well... still definitely, maybe enemies but also lovers to it's all kinds of complicated... The Panty Melter was an absolute gem of a romance that had me all in my feels, loving every sizzling moment between our two main characters, and left me racing through the pages of Deacon and Violet's journey.

She hates (welllllll hate is a strong word...) him. Her totally wants her. One party and one moment is going to be a game changer for both of them. Now there is no turning back. He wants her and she wants him whether she wants to deny it or not. With the smoldering tension simmering barely below the surface between them and the undeniable chemistry pretty much everywhere they are together... the ride to loving again (hello mature characters!) is gonna be bumpy, thrilling, intense, fun, and oh so worth every single little moment.

Lili Valente never ceases to leave me in complete awe by the time I finish reading one of her books... totally captivating me from prologue to epilogue. The Panty Melter is the fourth standalone in this series and is a must read if you like romances sexy, sweet, and ridiculously swoony!

I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Profile Image for Liz.
3,640 reviews63 followers
March 26, 2019
The Panty Melter by Lili Valente was hilarious and steamy. Deacon and Violet had some hot and steamy chemistry that burned off the pages. The push and pull between them and their witty banter will keep you captivated. Though half the time they drive each other crazy, the other half they can’t keep their hands of each other.

This enemies to lovers story was just so much fun to read. Deacon was just so cocky, gruff and determined. Violet was caring and strong, even after her divorce. Both of them were older and had previous relationships with older children and were not looking for anything permanent. And yet they find themselves getting to know each other and finding something neither expected. A great read and one I highly recommend!

4.5-stars. Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews250 followers
March 26, 2019
The Panty Melter was all the things that you want in a fantastic read. From the beginning of this book, Deacon and Violet have sparks flying! Some are the angry, some are flirty and others are just sexy, sexy, sexy!

Each of them has all kinds of thoughts and feelings about the other one and they’re not sure how to act on it. When they decide to see what it is that is drawing them to the other, their relationship becomes swoon worthy.

Relationships are a big part of this story with those of parent/child being an important aspect to the story. Circumstances require both Deacon and Violet to deal with their children as they try to find their own HEA.

The ending of this story gave me all the feels and the biggest smile. Thank you for that, Ms. Valente! 5 Stars #2OCCMS
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,931 reviews16 followers
March 26, 2019
The Panty Melter by Lili Valente is book 4 in the Hunter Brothers Series. This is the story of Violet Boden and Deacon Hunter. I haven't yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book for me.
Deacon is working to raise his boys along with working on his career. Violet has been divorced for about two years and has a daughter who is 18. Violet is working to get back into the dating world since she is being pushed in that direction. Deacon and Violet have a enemies/sparing relationship, but when a masquerade party encounter ends up making sparks for both...until they find out who the other is. Then unsure of how to go forward with their new feelings that aren't hate. Enjoyed their story.
Profile Image for queen_of_the_books_18.
870 reviews236 followers
March 26, 2019
A chance meeting... 2 people who don’t want another forever person after being burned in the past. What happens when a strong attraction happens that they can’t just let go?

Violet is divorced and a chance meeting at a masquerade party leads to an insane attraction to the guy behind the mask.

When Violet realises who it is... she runs.

I loved that this story was based on two older people who have had a past and find dating hard because of that past.


Deacon and Violet’s chemistry was hot AF and intense. I kinda fell in love with Deacon a little bit.

What will happen when the two collide? Can it be just a physical relationship or will emotions start to muddy the waters?

An fun enemies to lovers read.
Read the panty melter to find out.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews484 followers
April 1, 2019
Resistance is futile… thank goodness!

The Hunter Brothers are back! This time out it was serious Deacon’s turn and he had his hands delightfully full with practical, sweet, sexy Violet. I loved that these characters were older, facing life and love challenges with the benefit of experience and maturity. That didn’t mean they didn’t struggle, oh they did! Just because it wasn’t their first rodeo, didn’t mean it was any easier…

“...I’ve got enough on my plate with my own crazy family; I don’t need a booster shot of nuts from yours.”

The attraction was high and the smexy was hot as these two found their way. Violet’s inner voice had me laughing out loud. A lot. Whether describing her futile attempts to resist Deacon or hiding her reaction to him, it was said with humour and the ability to laugh at herself. Deacon was more uptight but Violet brought out the lighthearted in him as she worked her irresistible magic…

From baby goats to hemorrhoids named Chad, this story was full of boundless laughter and life with all its ups and downs. Funny, heart-warming, this author knows how to write a great story with all the feels I crave! ~Diane, 5 stars
Profile Image for Marina Skinner.
1,588 reviews46 followers
March 2, 2019
I immersed myself and devoured this highly entertaining Enemies to Lover's story with some rather quirky characters with interesting lives.
I thought Deacon was one hell of a man. Although Vi had somewhat of a different opinion initially of him, however she grew to like him a lot. I just loved the banter and witty messages, the friendships they both had and their jobs as well.
I loved the direction the story went and the ending was absolutely amazing! Such a great read, I can highly recommend it as. A must read!
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,317 reviews53 followers
March 23, 2019
It's been a while since my last Lili Valente book and boy was I happy after finishing this. Everything about this story was perfect. I loved that the MC's were mature and developed characters. They both had strong shoulders too lean on. They were both a bit strong-headed but that just added to their chemistry which was off the charts. It was so easy to get lost in their world.

I absolutely loved every word of this book. If their chemistry is the indication what awaits me when I turn 40+?!?! Bring it on 😉

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog
Profile Image for Danielle Harris.
843 reviews
March 26, 2019
Deacon is the panty melter

This book cracked me up. saving a goose, saving a corgi, the banter between the main characters. I was so happy that this book landed in my kindle. I woke up early to read this book!

Violet didn't have it easy 39 years old and she just got a divorce with her husband Grant. He cheated . She is in need for a man and she stumbled upon a man that made her toes curl. But Deacon is off limits. Deacon doesn't think so, he can't get her off good mind and he will do whatever it takes to finish what they started.
Profile Image for Lisa.
799 reviews5 followers
March 26, 2019
I was hooked on this one from the first chapter. Violet and Deacon can't stand each other. Violet works for Deacon's brother and is most definitely off limits. Deacon is a cocky, domineering Alpha who is just the opposite of everything Violet is looking for.
The chemistry between these two, despite not being able to get along for more that 5 minutes, is off the charts HOT! I couldn't get enough of the push and pull between these two characters. I loved this sweet sexy story of finding love and trust after divorce. I couldn't put this one down!
Profile Image for Booklover Judy Lynn.
1,530 reviews27 followers
March 30, 2019
I love that Deacon and Violet are a couple in their forties dealing with teenage/young adult children while figuring out what the future means for them. I love Violet's outlook on life and the way she parents. There is plenty of steam, and the chemistry between these two is off the charts, and totally addictive.
There are a few twists in this book that are very amusing. and the characters are lovable. The author has a way with words and turns of phrase that I really like. I really enjoyed this book and I recommend it.
7 reviews
October 8, 2024
The plot is pretty predictable, standard, and boring - so if you're looking for something new, definitely not the book for you.

The MMC is adorable tho and the spice is nice. The characters aren't all that fleshed out and I often found myself wishing for more details.
It's a 40+ MC book but feels like it was written by a teenager.

A quick read (or listen in my case) but nothing special.
Profile Image for Messy Bun Book Blog.
2,319 reviews
March 26, 2019
This book was so hard to put down! The progress of Violet & Deacon’s relationship from being annoyed by each other, to flirty friends, to so much more was entrancing. I liked that there was just enough drama to keep the story moving without making it angsty. I really enjoyed this book!
Profile Image for Marika.
4,741 reviews96 followers
March 27, 2019
I absolutely adored this story! A second chance at happiness for 2 forty something years old..and I loved every second!
At first they are enemies, then friends then so much more!
Deacon and Violet might be opposites but their chemistry is off the charts!
There is also a little twist that took the story in an amazing direction!
It also has crazy banter and the characters are spectacular!
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews161 followers
March 1, 2019
Deacon is just oh so suave, “or we could go out,” he says. “I’d like to buy you a meal.” Violet likes to keep her man's spirits up, "I smile . “Okay, so maybe you are an old man. But you’re a sexy old man, so at least you’ve got that going for you.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Deacon.
Profile Image for Tami Talbert.
451 reviews17 followers
March 7, 2019
I was completely consumed with Deacon and Violet’s story from prologue to epilogue. Though they start out as enemies, neither Deacon nor Violet can deny or ignore the electrical currents that soar through their souls whenever they are near one another. The explosion of fiery passion between them literally leaps from the pages turn after turn. And their witty banter is so entertaining and fun to read, I didn’t want to put my kindle down. I also loved that Deacon and Violet are older (both are in their 40s with grown children) and how they find a deep and true love together that will last forever. The novel is also replete with lots of secondary characters which rounded out this story beautifully, and it also included a few surprises I wasn’t expecting.

In true Lili Valente fashion, The Panty Melter is a hot and steamy romance with touching and emotional moments as well, and a definite must read. Another fantastic addition to her Hunter Brothers series which, as always, leaves me wanting more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.