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Royals and Legends #1
The Keeper
Some secrets never stay buried…
Victoria Chase
It started in the English countryside when he stopped to see if I was having car trouble.
It should have ended there.
But it turned into three of the most intense days of my life. And guess what? It didn’t end there either.
His name is Xavier Maddox. Sexy, talented, untamed. A British soccer star. The enticing bad boy. He should be off limits for me. I have this policy about getting involved with professional athletes…or as I call them, the product.
Xavier was only supposed to be a one night stand. A distraction for me while I dealt with a long ignored family situation.
Fate had other plans…
Xavier Maddox
Pulling off the road to help a stranded motorist should have been simple. But nothing is simple when it comes to this fiery American redhead.
Victoria Chase has me questioning the parts of myself I buried years ago. She’s the gasoline to a fire I once needed to extinguish. Those flames have roared back to life.
Now I’m desperate to unlock her deepest secrets.
Trouble is, those secrets connect us both to one fateful summer. I’ll do anything to protect her. She’s my light and I’ll stop at nothing to make her see that.
Even if it means letting her go.
****
The Keeper is a contemporary sports romance with a twist and a hint of mystery. It's book one in the Royals and Legends series.
Victoria Chase
It started in the English countryside when he stopped to see if I was having car trouble.
It should have ended there.
But it turned into three of the most intense days of my life. And guess what? It didn’t end there either.
His name is Xavier Maddox. Sexy, talented, untamed. A British soccer star. The enticing bad boy. He should be off limits for me. I have this policy about getting involved with professional athletes…or as I call them, the product.
Xavier was only supposed to be a one night stand. A distraction for me while I dealt with a long ignored family situation.
Fate had other plans…
Xavier Maddox
Pulling off the road to help a stranded motorist should have been simple. But nothing is simple when it comes to this fiery American redhead.
Victoria Chase has me questioning the parts of myself I buried years ago. She’s the gasoline to a fire I once needed to extinguish. Those flames have roared back to life.
Now I’m desperate to unlock her deepest secrets.
Trouble is, those secrets connect us both to one fateful summer. I’ll do anything to protect her. She’s my light and I’ll stop at nothing to make her see that.
Even if it means letting her go.
****
The Keeper is a contemporary sports romance with a twist and a hint of mystery. It's book one in the Royals and Legends series.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2023
107 people are currently reading
5869 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Montagano
6 books147 followersLynn Montagano writes contemporary romance with darker themes and emotionally complex characters.
She's a cat mom, unapologetic football fan, and has a thing for Tony Stark. When Lynn isn't writing, you can most likely find her cheering loudly for her beloved New England Patriots, trying to herd cats, or traveling somewhere (probably London).
www.lynnmontagano.com/links
Instagram: @XOLynnMontagano
Facebook: @XOLynnMontagano
TikTok: @XOLynnMontagano
She's a cat mom, unapologetic football fan, and has a thing for Tony Stark. When Lynn isn't writing, you can most likely find her cheering loudly for her beloved New England Patriots, trying to herd cats, or traveling somewhere (probably London).
www.lynnmontagano.com/links
Instagram: @XOLynnMontagano
Facebook: @XOLynnMontagano
TikTok: @XOLynnMontagano
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January 12, 2025work book
December 4, 2025
3.5 Stars
So first things first. This is not the type of sports romance I'm used to so I'm not gonna tag it as that. Yes, it has a football element to it but I feel like it doesn't have that much of an impact on the story as a whole. That said, the story was very compelling and emotional and you should probably check your triggers.
Our main characters are Victoria and Xavier, who have a chance encounter on a side of an English road, that leads to a passionate and intense connection they both try, unsuccessfully I might add, to play off as simply having fun. It couldn't lead anywhere anyway because Victoria is there for a family thing that she needs to take care of and then head back to New York where she has her life and friends and where she works as a PR professional for a big football team. Whereas Xavier has his life firmly planted here in England as a country's number one goalkeeper and has his own struggles to deal with before he's ready for a serious relationship.
All their reasons fly out the window however, because when the sparks start flying - they don't stop. Xavier is hell bent on getting Victoria through her family tragedy that keeps rearing its head, while Victoria is embracing the side of him he was desperate to quash. But what happens when the truth from their past finally comes to light and endanger everything they're trying to build together?
It's sexy as hell and the vibes were vibing right from the start for me but there were a few things that precluded me from giving this a higher rating. First of all, although there are some interesting secondary characters, some of them fell absolutely flat for me. Mainly Victoria's two gay besties. They were just cliché cutouts of a gay best friend from any movie or show from early 2000's. I feel like it could've been done better. Second, the bad guy reveal came out of nowhere and was a bit too convenient in how he connected to the characters. And the last thing, the ending. I know there's a second book for these characters but it felt like at the last minute someone suggested to split it and they just picked a random place in the book to do it. I mean there were some resolutions, sure, but the last paragraph just sort of was there and then it ended.
All that said though I really enjoyed this story and would be checking out book 2 to see how it ends. It's a definite yes from me.
Thank you Hambright PR and Lynn Montagano for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Over and out
So first things first. This is not the type of sports romance I'm used to so I'm not gonna tag it as that. Yes, it has a football element to it but I feel like it doesn't have that much of an impact on the story as a whole. That said, the story was very compelling and emotional and you should probably check your triggers.
Our main characters are Victoria and Xavier, who have a chance encounter on a side of an English road, that leads to a passionate and intense connection they both try, unsuccessfully I might add, to play off as simply having fun. It couldn't lead anywhere anyway because Victoria is there for a family thing that she needs to take care of and then head back to New York where she has her life and friends and where she works as a PR professional for a big football team. Whereas Xavier has his life firmly planted here in England as a country's number one goalkeeper and has his own struggles to deal with before he's ready for a serious relationship.
All their reasons fly out the window however, because when the sparks start flying - they don't stop. Xavier is hell bent on getting Victoria through her family tragedy that keeps rearing its head, while Victoria is embracing the side of him he was desperate to quash. But what happens when the truth from their past finally comes to light and endanger everything they're trying to build together?
It's sexy as hell and the vibes were vibing right from the start for me but there were a few things that precluded me from giving this a higher rating. First of all, although there are some interesting secondary characters, some of them fell absolutely flat for me. Mainly Victoria's two gay besties. They were just cliché cutouts of a gay best friend from any movie or show from early 2000's. I feel like it could've been done better. Second, the bad guy reveal came out of nowhere and was a bit too convenient in how he connected to the characters. And the last thing, the ending. I know there's a second book for these characters but it felt like at the last minute someone suggested to split it and they just picked a random place in the book to do it. I mean there were some resolutions, sure, but the last paragraph just sort of was there and then it ended.
All that said though I really enjoyed this story and would be checking out book 2 to see how it ends. It's a definite yes from me.
Thank you Hambright PR and Lynn Montagano for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Over and out
October 26, 2025
This story follows Victoria, who lives in New York and is currently in the UK at her family’s cottage, trying to sell it. It’s been a long time since they were truly a family, and the fond memories of this place make it hard for Victoria to let go. But when a handsome man shows up to check if she’s okay and not lost will she ever see him again? And will she find the courage to open her heart?
First off, I loved the audiobook narration it was brilliant. I enjoyed the storyline and the twin-sister situation. I love how fiery and independent Victoria, the FMC, is. She had a flirtatious side when it came to Xavier that was delicious, but she also had to navigate the loss of her sister and all the emotions that came with uncovering memories and new information in her sister’s diary. Xavier fell hard for her but struggled to break through the walls she kept up to protect herself. These two had chemistry from the start, leading to a whirlwind, intense, and intimate romance. The rough, dominating spice was fantastic.
Just a couple of things I wish Adam and Victoria had actually talked about the sister, rather than Xavier explaining it to Adam. I was also hoping for a potential healing conversation with the mother, as she was very harsh toward Victoria.
Overall, I enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book in the series!
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 12hrs 35mins
Narrators: Brendan Davis-Butler and Elliot Matthew’s - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Royal and Legends Series
Tropes or Themes: Strangers To Lovers, Sports (Football), One Night Stand, He Falls First, Found Family, Age Gap (6yrs), Chemistry, Jealousy, Possessive MMC, Family Drama, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Oral, Rough, Restrictive Play, Impact Play, Punishment Play, Public Play, Heels Scene and Outside Scene
Discusses: Suicide, Drug Abuse, Grief and Death Of Sibling
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
First off, I loved the audiobook narration it was brilliant. I enjoyed the storyline and the twin-sister situation. I love how fiery and independent Victoria, the FMC, is. She had a flirtatious side when it came to Xavier that was delicious, but she also had to navigate the loss of her sister and all the emotions that came with uncovering memories and new information in her sister’s diary. Xavier fell hard for her but struggled to break through the walls she kept up to protect herself. These two had chemistry from the start, leading to a whirlwind, intense, and intimate romance. The rough, dominating spice was fantastic.
Just a couple of things I wish Adam and Victoria had actually talked about the sister, rather than Xavier explaining it to Adam. I was also hoping for a potential healing conversation with the mother, as she was very harsh toward Victoria.
Overall, I enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book in the series!
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 12hrs 35mins
Narrators: Brendan Davis-Butler and Elliot Matthew’s - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Royal and Legends Series
Tropes or Themes: Strangers To Lovers, Sports (Football), One Night Stand, He Falls First, Found Family, Age Gap (6yrs), Chemistry, Jealousy, Possessive MMC, Family Drama, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Oral, Rough, Restrictive Play, Impact Play, Punishment Play, Public Play, Heels Scene and Outside Scene
Discusses: Suicide, Drug Abuse, Grief and Death Of Sibling
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
January 30, 2025
REVIEW
Score: 3/5
POV: Dual
Heat Level: 5+/5
Tropes: Sports - Soccer & American Football; MCs in their mid 30s;
Kinks: exhibitionism;
Likes:
* the book was unexpectedly very romantic. Once the MCs got over there feelings of can I do a relationship and this not just be a hook up, the feelings were real and strong.
* great side characters
Dislikes:
* felt like there were a lot of small side stories happening that we never got resolution or explanations for?
* for a long time I was seriously wandering what the heck the whole plot of the book was
I struggled to figure out what I wanted to rate this book. I decided a solid 3 stars. I was able to read it quickly even with the beginning having me wonder what the heck this book was even about. The book starts off a bit strange. Things do slowly start to come together but definitely slowly. However once things do come together the book is actually pretty good and pretty romantic. There are random small plot points that happen throughout the book that don’t really get resolved , explained, or just disappear which was annoying. As I’m typing this and thinking more I would maybe even rate this slightly lower than a 3. There are a good bit of things that we get no explanation for but seem like a big deal? Then there’s the sort of 3rd act breakup. It’s frustrating.
Yeah as I’ve typed out this review I realize I maybe didn’t like this as much as I was thinking, lol. I definitely wouldn’t reread this.
2.5/5
* after posting this review I have now realized this story isn’t finished. There is a book 2 for this couple. This book doesn’t exactly end on a cliff hanger so I didn’t realize. So maybe book 2 resolves some of these side stories that felt unfinished.
Score: 3/5
POV: Dual
Heat Level: 5+/5
Tropes: Sports - Soccer & American Football; MCs in their mid 30s;
Kinks: exhibitionism;
Likes:
* the book was unexpectedly very romantic. Once the MCs got over there feelings of can I do a relationship and this not just be a hook up, the feelings were real and strong.
* great side characters
Dislikes:
* felt like there were a lot of small side stories happening that we never got resolution or explanations for?
* for a long time I was seriously wandering what the heck the whole plot of the book was
I struggled to figure out what I wanted to rate this book. I decided a solid 3 stars. I was able to read it quickly even with the beginning having me wonder what the heck this book was even about. The book starts off a bit strange. Things do slowly start to come together but definitely slowly. However once things do come together the book is actually pretty good and pretty romantic. There are random small plot points that happen throughout the book that don’t really get resolved , explained, or just disappear which was annoying. As I’m typing this and thinking more I would maybe even rate this slightly lower than a 3. There are a good bit of things that we get no explanation for but seem like a big deal? Then there’s the sort of 3rd act breakup. It’s frustrating.
Yeah as I’ve typed out this review I realize I maybe didn’t like this as much as I was thinking, lol. I definitely wouldn’t reread this.
2.5/5
* after posting this review I have now realized this story isn’t finished. There is a book 2 for this couple. This book doesn’t exactly end on a cliff hanger so I didn’t realize. So maybe book 2 resolves some of these side stories that felt unfinished.
November 1, 2023
Stars ⭐️ 5
Spice 3 out of 5
Triggers: sexual content and mention of suicide
Tropes: sports romance and long distance relationship
I really loved the plot from this author and the spice 🌶️. Thank you for that.
I love going into a book blind and when I did that with this book I had to stop and read the back of the book to know what am I reading. The beginning of this book started out rocky and it didn’t grab me, but I’m not one to start a book and not finish it. Don’t get me wrong I gave this book 5 stars for a reason, the beginning was just not it. 😔Personally I love a build up of characters and I didn’t get that until I was chapters in.
After I knew what was going on and I knew who was who and what was what I really enjoyed the book. There was spice and a lot of it. I loved the plot of this book bc I can’t wait for Book 2!
I would recommend this book just know you might be confused in the beginning but it is a good book to read and I personally did enjoy it.
Favorite quote: “Forget death by a thousand paper cuts. This was death by filthy words, inflections, and tone. All delivered in an elegant British accent and packaged in the most stunning man alive.” - Victoria page 270. YESSSS HONEYYY ME TOO GIRL!! 👏🏼
I received this book from Verve Romance as an ARC
- THANK YOU VERVE ROMANCE!!
-I volunteered to do this review.
Spice 3 out of 5
Triggers: sexual content and mention of suicide
Tropes: sports romance and long distance relationship
I really loved the plot from this author and the spice 🌶️. Thank you for that.
I love going into a book blind and when I did that with this book I had to stop and read the back of the book to know what am I reading. The beginning of this book started out rocky and it didn’t grab me, but I’m not one to start a book and not finish it. Don’t get me wrong I gave this book 5 stars for a reason, the beginning was just not it. 😔Personally I love a build up of characters and I didn’t get that until I was chapters in.
After I knew what was going on and I knew who was who and what was what I really enjoyed the book. There was spice and a lot of it. I loved the plot of this book bc I can’t wait for Book 2!
I would recommend this book just know you might be confused in the beginning but it is a good book to read and I personally did enjoy it.
Favorite quote: “Forget death by a thousand paper cuts. This was death by filthy words, inflections, and tone. All delivered in an elegant British accent and packaged in the most stunning man alive.” - Victoria page 270. YESSSS HONEYYY ME TOO GIRL!! 👏🏼
I received this book from Verve Romance as an ARC
- THANK YOU VERVE ROMANCE!!
-I volunteered to do this review.
July 9, 2023
This book has an amazing plot, layered characters, and witty dialogue, plus THERES SPICE! 🌶️🔥
And some damn good spice at that!
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish, it had the ability to pull me in from the first chapter and keep me intrigued the whole way through. Our two main characters, Victoria and Xavier are the kind of characters I will always want to read about. The fact that the author aged them up to over 30 years old made the entire story so much more relatable in my opinion. Each of them had trauma that was complex and painful. Reading them work through these traumas together, and heal was beautiful.
I love a good romance book, but when a romance novel is about more than just the romance, I LOVE THAT! When a romance book has a good twist to the plot, that’s how you get me. And the twist got me on this one.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
And some damn good spice at that!
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish, it had the ability to pull me in from the first chapter and keep me intrigued the whole way through. Our two main characters, Victoria and Xavier are the kind of characters I will always want to read about. The fact that the author aged them up to over 30 years old made the entire story so much more relatable in my opinion. Each of them had trauma that was complex and painful. Reading them work through these traumas together, and heal was beautiful.
I love a good romance book, but when a romance novel is about more than just the romance, I LOVE THAT! When a romance book has a good twist to the plot, that’s how you get me. And the twist got me on this one.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
October 2, 2023
Mñe. Yo esperaba uno de sporty melofó y, si bien lo es (el maromo es portero), me he encontrado con una historia que mezcla muchas cosas y bdsm, algo que no me esperaba y tampoco es que me apeteciera mucho. Supongo que si la autora no hubiera metido tantas cosas a la vez, sobre todo en la parte final, habría sido algo más pasable pero hay mucho y la atención se va. Sobre todo hay una historia dramática de fondo que cobra demasiado protagonismo y que me ha interesado más bien poco.
No es que sea horrible pero a mí no me ha convencido.
No es que sea horrible pero a mí no me ha convencido.
November 24, 2025
#Review: *The Keeper* - Lynn Montagano [18+]
4/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
It was initially a simple encounter between two strangers, but it transformed into so much more. Everything began when Victoria Wilde pulled off to the road and soccer player Xavier Maddox thought that she might need some help with her car. Nothing out of the order there. But their paths kept on intertwining and it was somehow easy to fall into that incredible tension that existed between them. Even if Victoria swore to not get involved with athletes anymore. But what happens when there was an unknown connection between them from their past? Will it destroy what they had or bring them even closer?
This was an alright book, having a bit of everything in it but I still felt like something was missing. I couldn't completely connect to the characters and their stories, feeling like there was a focus on their physical attraction, rather than on their own personal struggles. That part was often left aside and it always came back to the physical connection of Victoria and Xavier. I liked those vulnerable parts and the chemistry between them and maybe I wanted a bit more than what it was given. The mystery behind the story was interesting to follow and made me curious about what happened back then that led to that tragic event.
A book that kept me guessing about the facts that happened in the past, offering that mystery and suspense to the story. It was also filled with many steamy scenes, some which were pretty rough and detailed. I have mixed feelings about this one, because I really liked some parts of it, but something didn't clicked the way I wanted in the end.
I must thank Hambright Pr for accepting me for this e-copy.🤗
✨Tropes
#StrangersToLovers
#BritishHero
#OneNightStand
#FoundFamily
#ExtraSpicy
#MentalHealthRep
#SportsRomance
#SoccerPlayer
4/5✨
3.5/5🌶️
It was initially a simple encounter between two strangers, but it transformed into so much more. Everything began when Victoria Wilde pulled off to the road and soccer player Xavier Maddox thought that she might need some help with her car. Nothing out of the order there. But their paths kept on intertwining and it was somehow easy to fall into that incredible tension that existed between them. Even if Victoria swore to not get involved with athletes anymore. But what happens when there was an unknown connection between them from their past? Will it destroy what they had or bring them even closer?
This was an alright book, having a bit of everything in it but I still felt like something was missing. I couldn't completely connect to the characters and their stories, feeling like there was a focus on their physical attraction, rather than on their own personal struggles. That part was often left aside and it always came back to the physical connection of Victoria and Xavier. I liked those vulnerable parts and the chemistry between them and maybe I wanted a bit more than what it was given. The mystery behind the story was interesting to follow and made me curious about what happened back then that led to that tragic event.
A book that kept me guessing about the facts that happened in the past, offering that mystery and suspense to the story. It was also filled with many steamy scenes, some which were pretty rough and detailed. I have mixed feelings about this one, because I really liked some parts of it, but something didn't clicked the way I wanted in the end.
I must thank Hambright Pr for accepting me for this e-copy.🤗
✨Tropes
#StrangersToLovers
#BritishHero
#OneNightStand
#FoundFamily
#ExtraSpicy
#MentalHealthRep
#SportsRomance
#SoccerPlayer
July 20, 2023
This is the first book that I am reading by Lynn Montagano and I actually enjoyed reading Victoria and Xavier's story.
Victoria came back to the UK, because she needed to get closure on her past and sort out one of her parent's properties. But one chance encounter in the english countryside meets her with Xavier. She is instantly attracted to him, but she decides that it's best to continue on her way. They both think that they will not see each other anymore. Well, they were wrong. Over the course of the story, they keep meeting each other.
Victoria feels this pull towards Xavier, but after everything that happened in her past, with her sister's passing, she is not confident enough that she can have a normal relationship with a man. Sure, she had some boyfriends, but what she feels towards Xavier is something different...something stronger and deeper. Xavier is a big football star who has never had long relationships with women before. It only takes one fateful encounter with Victoria and he can't get her out of his head. He literally, can't stop thinking about her. But this time he is ready to try, because Victoria is something different and he thinks that she is the woman for him.
I will not miss mentioning all the good and spicy love scenes between them. They were so so good and full of heat. I can only say that Xavier is an alpha, possessive, dominant man and I love him. What I liked even more...when it comes to kinky stuff, Victoria is definitely not inferior to him in any way.
Through the course of the story, there were various questions that popped into my head. Well, we have to wait for the next book to find out, because Victoria and Xavier adventures will continue.
*I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion and this is my voluntary review.***
Victoria came back to the UK, because she needed to get closure on her past and sort out one of her parent's properties. But one chance encounter in the english countryside meets her with Xavier. She is instantly attracted to him, but she decides that it's best to continue on her way. They both think that they will not see each other anymore. Well, they were wrong. Over the course of the story, they keep meeting each other.
Victoria feels this pull towards Xavier, but after everything that happened in her past, with her sister's passing, she is not confident enough that she can have a normal relationship with a man. Sure, she had some boyfriends, but what she feels towards Xavier is something different...something stronger and deeper. Xavier is a big football star who has never had long relationships with women before. It only takes one fateful encounter with Victoria and he can't get her out of his head. He literally, can't stop thinking about her. But this time he is ready to try, because Victoria is something different and he thinks that she is the woman for him.
I will not miss mentioning all the good and spicy love scenes between them. They were so so good and full of heat. I can only say that Xavier is an alpha, possessive, dominant man and I love him. What I liked even more...when it comes to kinky stuff, Victoria is definitely not inferior to him in any way.
Through the course of the story, there were various questions that popped into my head. Well, we have to wait for the next book to find out, because Victoria and Xavier adventures will continue.
*I received an ARC from Grey's Promotion and this is my voluntary review.***
December 7, 2025
✨ Thank you to Lynn Montagano and Hambright PR for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own. ✨
The Keeper follows Victoria Chase, a guarded American PR director who travels to England to confront painful memories—only to be rescued on a deserted road by charismatic British soccer star Xavier Maddox. Their one-night encounter evolves into an emotional slow-burn connection when work unexpectedly brings them back together, forcing Victoria to face the trauma that has shaped every part of her life. As Xavier pushes for honesty and real intimacy, Victoria’s guilt and fear repeatedly sabotage their relationship—until a family crisis finally compels her to reveal the tragedy she’s been carrying alone. Their eventual reconciliation, built on truth, vulnerability, and trust, marks the beginning of healing and sets the stage for their continued journey in the next book.
Lynn Montagano delivers an emotional, character-driven story that blends heartfelt romance with layered internal conflict. Her thoughtful pacing incorporates slow-burn intimacy, quiet moments, and a gradual peeling back of emotional layers. She approaches trauma and healing with sensitivity—never rushed, never surface-level—giving readers a full understanding of why her characters love the way they do. At times, the book may feel a bit long, but stick with it, and you will be rewarded in the end!
If you love slow-burn sports romance with emotional depth, a guarded heroine, a patient swoony football star, and a healing-through-love journey filled with secrets and heartache, The Keeper is your next must-read.
#LynnMontagano #HPRTheKeeper #HambrightPR #Bookstagram #SlowBurnRomance
The Keeper follows Victoria Chase, a guarded American PR director who travels to England to confront painful memories—only to be rescued on a deserted road by charismatic British soccer star Xavier Maddox. Their one-night encounter evolves into an emotional slow-burn connection when work unexpectedly brings them back together, forcing Victoria to face the trauma that has shaped every part of her life. As Xavier pushes for honesty and real intimacy, Victoria’s guilt and fear repeatedly sabotage their relationship—until a family crisis finally compels her to reveal the tragedy she’s been carrying alone. Their eventual reconciliation, built on truth, vulnerability, and trust, marks the beginning of healing and sets the stage for their continued journey in the next book.
Lynn Montagano delivers an emotional, character-driven story that blends heartfelt romance with layered internal conflict. Her thoughtful pacing incorporates slow-burn intimacy, quiet moments, and a gradual peeling back of emotional layers. She approaches trauma and healing with sensitivity—never rushed, never surface-level—giving readers a full understanding of why her characters love the way they do. At times, the book may feel a bit long, but stick with it, and you will be rewarded in the end!
If you love slow-burn sports romance with emotional depth, a guarded heroine, a patient swoony football star, and a healing-through-love journey filled with secrets and heartache, The Keeper is your next must-read.
#LynnMontagano #HPRTheKeeper #HambrightPR #Bookstagram #SlowBurnRomance
November 25, 2025
"The Keeper" by Lynn Montagano is combining sports romance with an intriguing touch of mystery. It was an exciting, fast-paced, and emotionally charged story, but a few elements common to the genre prevented it from receiving the highest rating.
From the very first pages, there is real chemistry between Victoria Chase and Xavier Maddox, the famous British soccer “bad boy.” Their chance encounter, which was supposed to be just a one-time fling, simple entertainment for Victoria against the backdrop of family problems-quickly grows into something much deeper. Reading about their interaction is a real pleasure, and Xavier, as a passionate and somewhat uncontrollable hero, captivates the reader's attention.
What sets this book apart from other sports novels is the promised “hint of mystery.” The storyline, which revolves around Victoria's long-ignored family situation and the “fateful summer” that, as it turns out, connects the characters, adds depth and tension. It's really nice plot twist.
Although the mystery was interesting, its resolution and certain dramatic twists sometimes seemed too rushed or somewhat overly emotional, which prevented the book from feeling completely polished.
Also, check trigger warning before you read this book. There are some sensitive things in this story.
3.75/5 ⭐
Thank you Hambright PR and Lynn Montagano for ARC
From the very first pages, there is real chemistry between Victoria Chase and Xavier Maddox, the famous British soccer “bad boy.” Their chance encounter, which was supposed to be just a one-time fling, simple entertainment for Victoria against the backdrop of family problems-quickly grows into something much deeper. Reading about their interaction is a real pleasure, and Xavier, as a passionate and somewhat uncontrollable hero, captivates the reader's attention.
What sets this book apart from other sports novels is the promised “hint of mystery.” The storyline, which revolves around Victoria's long-ignored family situation and the “fateful summer” that, as it turns out, connects the characters, adds depth and tension. It's really nice plot twist.
Although the mystery was interesting, its resolution and certain dramatic twists sometimes seemed too rushed or somewhat overly emotional, which prevented the book from feeling completely polished.
Also, check trigger warning before you read this book. There are some sensitive things in this story.
3.75/5 ⭐
Thank you Hambright PR and Lynn Montagano for ARC
October 19, 2025
Holy Schmack! So good!
At least I know why I’ve never read this author’s books… this her first in 10 years! Lynn Montagano is one helluva writer, but dang, how will I manage to wait to find out what happens?
Do not pass ‘Go’! Read this book NOW!
I read it in one sitting and I’ve got the sweetest hangover. Xavier and Victoria are fire! I love how powerless they are to not love each other. This book is so much more than a romance. It has a mystery and I’m thinking the next book is going to be explosive and sexy and way more suspenseful.
The story is amazingly well-crafted. I adore that Xavier is a football god (a keeper… get it) and Victoria does PR for an American football club. How will they make it work long term? I can’t wait to find out.
I almost always wait until series with cliffhangers are completed, so I can binge them all at once, but I don’t regret reading this one… at all. I will wait, I have no choice, but lord tunderin’ jayzus in a dixie cup, I hope it isn’t long!
JOKE’S ON ME… IT’S ALREADY HERE! Yay!
#HPRTheKeeper
#LynnMontagano
#HambrightPR
At least I know why I’ve never read this author’s books… this her first in 10 years! Lynn Montagano is one helluva writer, but dang, how will I manage to wait to find out what happens?
Do not pass ‘Go’! Read this book NOW!
I read it in one sitting and I’ve got the sweetest hangover. Xavier and Victoria are fire! I love how powerless they are to not love each other. This book is so much more than a romance. It has a mystery and I’m thinking the next book is going to be explosive and sexy and way more suspenseful.
The story is amazingly well-crafted. I adore that Xavier is a football god (a keeper… get it) and Victoria does PR for an American football club. How will they make it work long term? I can’t wait to find out.
I almost always wait until series with cliffhangers are completed, so I can binge them all at once, but I don’t regret reading this one… at all. I will wait, I have no choice, but lord tunderin’ jayzus in a dixie cup, I hope it isn’t long!
JOKE’S ON ME… IT’S ALREADY HERE! Yay!
#HPRTheKeeper
#LynnMontagano
#HambrightPR
July 27, 2025
3.5 Stars ⭐️ The audiobook is a banger! Branden Davis-Butler and Elliot Matthews did a fantastic job. I liked the romantic moments between Victoria and Xavier. He is a British footballer and she just inherited an English country house. There was a lot of angst and messiness. Honestly, the Keeper felt like the VERY SPICY sports version of Magnolia Parks as that’s the vibes it kept giving. The instalust between Victoria and Xavier off-putting. The lust between them really drove the entire book. The subplots never had a real explanation. I did not love the third act conflict, but the way the characters were written, it worked. Both are very flawed characters, which made me want to continue to listen to the book. Lynn Montagano can write well! The characters felt real. The conflicts felt real. I needed a little more verbal communication and a little less spicy physical communication.
October 29, 2025
This book had all the banter! The way Victoria and Xavier bounced off each had me giggling and eager for more. Their natural chemistry and connection, for me, made this book. I have been left wanting more.
The Keeper follows Victoria as she comes to England to sell her family holiday home. Things, however, do not go as expected. Especially when Xavier pulls over in his car to make sure she is OK after seeing her pacing (we do love a gentleman). Victoria soon discovers Xavier, who is a goalkeeper and house renovator, can help her in more ways than one.
There's instant attraction, instant chemistry, instant satisfaction, and a whole lot of spice! I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the series.
Thank you so much to Lynn Montagano and Hambright PR for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Keeper follows Victoria as she comes to England to sell her family holiday home. Things, however, do not go as expected. Especially when Xavier pulls over in his car to make sure she is OK after seeing her pacing (we do love a gentleman). Victoria soon discovers Xavier, who is a goalkeeper and house renovator, can help her in more ways than one.
There's instant attraction, instant chemistry, instant satisfaction, and a whole lot of spice! I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the series.
Thank you so much to Lynn Montagano and Hambright PR for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2023
I won the kindle version of this book in a Goodreads giveaway and am voluntarily leaving this review.
This is a STEAMY and passionate love story. Victoria is a 35 year old executive for the most successful soccer team in the USA and resides in a “luxurious, but cozy, multi-million dollar high-rise condo.” Xavier is a 36 year old British soccer star with a net worth of 20 million pounds. Both are grappling with trauma from their past. Both have complicated relationships with their families. Both crave to be loved but don’t allow themselves to have it, don’t believe they deserve it. The story started off slow but built into a great plot and now I NEED to know what happens in Book 2. As for the spice 🌶️, it starts almost immediately in Chapter 4 and continues throughout the book- Victoria and Xavier like to play rough, but there is always consent, respect, and love.
This is a STEAMY and passionate love story. Victoria is a 35 year old executive for the most successful soccer team in the USA and resides in a “luxurious, but cozy, multi-million dollar high-rise condo.” Xavier is a 36 year old British soccer star with a net worth of 20 million pounds. Both are grappling with trauma from their past. Both have complicated relationships with their families. Both crave to be loved but don’t allow themselves to have it, don’t believe they deserve it. The story started off slow but built into a great plot and now I NEED to know what happens in Book 2. As for the spice 🌶️, it starts almost immediately in Chapter 4 and continues throughout the book- Victoria and Xavier like to play rough, but there is always consent, respect, and love.
August 26, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was happened upon this book by a complete accident, and I am so glad I did!
Victoria, our FMC has had some trauma in her life due to the death of her twin sister, she's visiting England to tie up some loose ends with her childhood holiday "cottage" for her parents. She's not been back since her sister took her own life and understandable is struggling with the onslaught of memories. Insert Xavier, the hot, Alpha male, football player.
Xavier helps Victoria open herself up to her memories, but it turns out their lives are connected from before, and everything that happened with Victoria's twin sister is not as it seems 😱
This was the perfect mix of plot and spice and I was definitely hooked! I'd highly recommend
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was happened upon this book by a complete accident, and I am so glad I did!
Victoria, our FMC has had some trauma in her life due to the death of her twin sister, she's visiting England to tie up some loose ends with her childhood holiday "cottage" for her parents. She's not been back since her sister took her own life and understandable is struggling with the onslaught of memories. Insert Xavier, the hot, Alpha male, football player.
Xavier helps Victoria open herself up to her memories, but it turns out their lives are connected from before, and everything that happened with Victoria's twin sister is not as it seems 😱
This was the perfect mix of plot and spice and I was definitely hooked! I'd highly recommend
Read
September 4, 20254 ⭐ 4 🌶️ 5 🎧
The blend of sports, spice and darkness in this book was so well done. I enjoyed Victoria and Xavier so much; from their meet cute to the happy for now, this story so much fun.
The spice was fantastic. Xavier is such a Dom and Victoria was a touch bratty, such a fun combo. Add in their propensity for exhibitionism and I was in heaven.
The touch of mystery and suspense had me on my knees begging for more. I can't wait to see where we go in book two and how these two find their happily ever after.
The audio was amazing. I loved Branden Davis-Butler and Elliot Matthews and the way they brought these characters to life. I loved this listen. Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the promo copy!
The blend of sports, spice and darkness in this book was so well done. I enjoyed Victoria and Xavier so much; from their meet cute to the happy for now, this story so much fun.
The spice was fantastic. Xavier is such a Dom and Victoria was a touch bratty, such a fun combo. Add in their propensity for exhibitionism and I was in heaven.
The touch of mystery and suspense had me on my knees begging for more. I can't wait to see where we go in book two and how these two find their happily ever after.
The audio was amazing. I loved Branden Davis-Butler and Elliot Matthews and the way they brought these characters to life. I loved this listen. Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the promo copy!
December 15, 2025
Some secrets never stay buried…
Victoria Chase and Xavier Maddox It started in the English countryside when he stopped to see if she was having car trouble. It should have ended there. But it turned into three of the most intense days of their life. And guess what? It didn’t end there either. He is sexy, talented, untamed. A British soccer star. She is American visiting her family’s home in England. The both have secrets from their past and their lives are inexplicably linked through past events.
This book comes with several trigger warnings: explicit sexual content and contains darker themes. If you are a high spice reader, you will enjoy this book. The Keeper is Book 1 in the Royals and Legends series.
Victoria Chase and Xavier Maddox It started in the English countryside when he stopped to see if she was having car trouble. It should have ended there. But it turned into three of the most intense days of their life. And guess what? It didn’t end there either. He is sexy, talented, untamed. A British soccer star. She is American visiting her family’s home in England. The both have secrets from their past and their lives are inexplicably linked through past events.
This book comes with several trigger warnings: explicit sexual content and contains darker themes. If you are a high spice reader, you will enjoy this book. The Keeper is Book 1 in the Royals and Legends series.
September 9, 2025
Royals, secrets, and a touch of romance? Total win. This book has a fast-moving plot with just enough twists to keep things interesting, plus characters who actually make you care about what happens next. I really liked the mix of modern royal drama with a hint of mystery and romance sprinkled in.
It’s fun, a little dramatic, and definitely the kind of story you breeze through in one or two sittings because you need to know how it all plays out. A solid start to the series that leaves you ready for book two.
It’s fun, a little dramatic, and definitely the kind of story you breeze through in one or two sittings because you need to know how it all plays out. A solid start to the series that leaves you ready for book two.
May 16, 2023
I’ll start by saying thank you to NetGalley and Couture Writer LLC, for an advanced copy of this book!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
It’s not very often that I’m intrigued in the first 10 pages of a book, but this one did that for me! It sucked me in, and I felt like I had to keep reading. I didn’t want to put it down. Dual POV, it’s spicy, chapters that aren’t too long. The main characters are perfect, and have a great story. I loved this book. I’m excited that there are more coming, there are so many unanswered questions!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
It’s not very often that I’m intrigued in the first 10 pages of a book, but this one did that for me! It sucked me in, and I felt like I had to keep reading. I didn’t want to put it down. Dual POV, it’s spicy, chapters that aren’t too long. The main characters are perfect, and have a great story. I loved this book. I’m excited that there are more coming, there are so many unanswered questions!
May 14, 2024
Audio review 🎧
I enjoyed this spicy (and darkish) sports romance story, and cannot wait to see what’s to come in book two of this series.
The audio was great as well, I really loved the British MMC!
I enjoyed this spicy (and darkish) sports romance story, and cannot wait to see what’s to come in book two of this series.
The audio was great as well, I really loved the British MMC!
December 22, 2025
This was a DNF for me.
I was having an extremely hard time getting into the book. it could have been a me thing. I will try and revisit it at a different date.
I was having an extremely hard time getting into the book. it could have been a me thing. I will try and revisit it at a different date.
October 19, 2023
This was boring.....I tried so hard to enjoy this book but seriously this was a book about rich people and their problems. I got to around 50+ pages and was just bored out of my mind. I have talked to others about this one and even past 100 pages this never picked up with any kind of actual conflict. So I was like nope I am out.
May 17, 2024
Xavier Maddox and Victoria Chase
*****SPOILER ALERT*****
The Keeper by Lynn Montagano. Royals and Legends, book 1. It is currently the only book listed in the series on Amazon, but the next books in the series are listed at the end: The Penalty, The Legacy, The Elite, The Striker, and The Trophy. This was a KU borrow/Alexa app listen. This is the first book I've read by this author, and I have no interest in reading her work again. I'm not a fan of books with discreet covers, so I would never have noticed this one without the recommendation from the author on social media. I read romance almost exclusively and want the cover to give me some idea of what the characters look like and the mood of the story. This story is awkward, disjointed, and ends with a major unresolved storyline that left me feeling annoyed. The characters are in their 30s but written as if they're immature teenagers. The odd way the chapter headings are formatted made it impossible for the Alexa app to read them. Multiple typos. A playlist was included. Content warnings: the H's mom died shortly after his birth; a girl was sexu@lly ass@ulted; H was beaten up as a teenager, h's sister saw the attack and was threatened; h's sister was r@ped by the guy who threatened her; sp@nk¡ng; light bond@ge; and bizarrely the h was threatened 20 years after her sister's death by the same guy who threatened and r@ped her twin.
Victoria Ava Chase (35; aka Tori/dirty princess) blames herself for the death of her older twin sister Charlotte (aka Charlie) 19 years ago. Her parents are divorced, and her mom is suddenly in a rush to sell off all of their family's properties (for what reason I have no idea because they are quite wealthy). Victoria travels to England to finalize the sale of one of the properties and to attend a work function. While there, she met Xavier on the side of the road as she was trying to calm down before signing the paperwork. When she finds out the buyer plans to flip the house, she decides not to sell. Victoria is the media relations director of a fictional New York football team and somehow that crosses over to the need for her to attend a party with an English soccer team (make it make sense).
Xavier Maddox (36) is a tattooed soccer player who is playing at being a dominant. He first encountered Victoria on the side of the road during her meltdown, later sees her again at the party his soccer team was hosting, and then coincidentally at a bar. Things escalated quickly between them, and they spent a few commitment free days together. She returns home with the diary she found in the English house, reads her sister's diaries and realized her sister had fallen for Adam, Xavier's stepbrother, while they were visiting England the summer before her sister's su¡c¡de. Charlotte has witnessed a fight, and she was being threatened. Later, Victoria reads another of her sister's diaries that revealed the guy who had threatened Charlotte also r@ped her. Then, 20 years later, in a bizarre and completely unbelievable turn of events, Jordan, the English r@p¡st, shows up in New York to threaten Victoria....
In the end, Xavier and Victoria are in a relationship, but Jordan McKennie, the villain, is still at large.
This story was difficult to get into, 70% didn't hold my attention, and then once it had my attention it left me with unanswered questions that I really couldn't give a single flying f*ck about how they will be resolved. Thankfully, it was a KU borrow, but it did cost me time that I will never get back. I am clearly not this author's audience. PT
2.5 out of 5 on my spice scale.
(There's a fixation with scalp scratching and two ick phrases: "swallowed all of my seed" and "warm, wet folds." 🤮🤢)
1st read 05-09-24 PT
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
Our book club really likes stories or romances that happen in other countries, which this one does😉 this is a book of Victoria and Xavier.
Victoria has just inherited a house in the English countryside and Xavier is a British soccer player and portrayed in the media as a so-called bad boy.
Victoria is a great character that has inherited a new house or an old house that belonged to her family, who she doesn’t really get along with overall. She is a relatable character for me especially for sometimes I can relate to that. And Xavier is not quite the bad boy as portrayed he just really wants to protect Victoria. He comes to her rescue when her family steps in and starts over her boundaries, in relation to the house that Victoria now owns.
We loved the chemistry between these characters as they really are very relatable and the passion between them is written really well. We think the author wrote a very good romance and we were engaged from the beginning of the novel until the end wanting to find out what’s going to happen and how the story of Xavier and Victoria ends. Xavier is a appealing man and Victoria cannot help but fall to his wiles.
Another part of the story is Victoria still dealing with her sister specifically her twin sisters death from a few years ago, which still affects her to this day.
Also Xavier has baggage that he is dealing with as well in this book which makes them balk really relatable
characters which is one of the things that we liked as we read through the book. There is a lot of push and pull between Xavier and Victoria in this book which also makes you want to read it a whole lot more because you want to see if they can get past all of their baggage is and emotional problems so that they can be together.
The ending of this book was something we did not see coming as the story with Victoria sister Charlotte was wrapped up but surprising!
There is a lot of steam in this book and spice and if that is your being your will love this book as well!
Victoria has just inherited a house in the English countryside and Xavier is a British soccer player and portrayed in the media as a so-called bad boy.
Victoria is a great character that has inherited a new house or an old house that belonged to her family, who she doesn’t really get along with overall. She is a relatable character for me especially for sometimes I can relate to that. And Xavier is not quite the bad boy as portrayed he just really wants to protect Victoria. He comes to her rescue when her family steps in and starts over her boundaries, in relation to the house that Victoria now owns.
We loved the chemistry between these characters as they really are very relatable and the passion between them is written really well. We think the author wrote a very good romance and we were engaged from the beginning of the novel until the end wanting to find out what’s going to happen and how the story of Xavier and Victoria ends. Xavier is a appealing man and Victoria cannot help but fall to his wiles.
Another part of the story is Victoria still dealing with her sister specifically her twin sisters death from a few years ago, which still affects her to this day.
Also Xavier has baggage that he is dealing with as well in this book which makes them balk really relatable
characters which is one of the things that we liked as we read through the book. There is a lot of push and pull between Xavier and Victoria in this book which also makes you want to read it a whole lot more because you want to see if they can get past all of their baggage is and emotional problems so that they can be together.
The ending of this book was something we did not see coming as the story with Victoria sister Charlotte was wrapped up but surprising!
There is a lot of steam in this book and spice and if that is your being your will love this book as well!
November 22, 2025
The Keeper is a very steamy contemporary sports romance that also has a mystery element to it. Victoria is in the UK to potentially sell her family's cottage when she meets soccer star, Xavier, along side the road while waiting to meet with the listing agent. An immediate spark happens between the two of them, however, Xavier is the one who falls first.
Throughout the story, we learn that Victoria and her family suffered a tragedy that still hasn't been resolved when it comes to the "why" factor. Hence why there is the home for sale subplot. While much of the story is about Victoria and Xavier's budding romance, there is also the subplot of figuring out what happened to Victoria's twin sister, Charlotte to make her do what she did.
What I liked about the Keeper was the romance between Victoria and Xavier. While some of Xaviers actions are romantic, both Xavier and Victoria seem to use intimacy to bond with each other and it tends to be a bit rough and animalistic. There is some subtle domination in these actions, so readers should be aware of the content warnings at the beginning of the book. Due to the amount of intimacy, I would rate the spice as a 3/5. I also liked the fact that Xavier was in therapy throughout the story due to suspension terms. It added a sense of authenticity to his character.
I feel that for book one of the Royals and Legends series, this was a good baseline for what's to come in book two of the series and I look forward to reading the continuation of Xavier and Victoria's story. I also look forward to the future books mentioned in the acknowledgements that have not been published yet.
Overall, 4.5/5. I would recommend this book to those who like sports romances, especially soccer romances like Ana Huang's the Defender and the Striker. I would also recommend this book to readers who like more of a mystery and suspense element to their romance books. Because of the sexual content in this book, I would recommend it to readers 18+
Thank you Hambright PR for providing me with a copy to read and review.
Throughout the story, we learn that Victoria and her family suffered a tragedy that still hasn't been resolved when it comes to the "why" factor. Hence why there is the home for sale subplot. While much of the story is about Victoria and Xavier's budding romance, there is also the subplot of figuring out what happened to Victoria's twin sister, Charlotte to make her do what she did.
What I liked about the Keeper was the romance between Victoria and Xavier. While some of Xaviers actions are romantic, both Xavier and Victoria seem to use intimacy to bond with each other and it tends to be a bit rough and animalistic. There is some subtle domination in these actions, so readers should be aware of the content warnings at the beginning of the book. Due to the amount of intimacy, I would rate the spice as a 3/5. I also liked the fact that Xavier was in therapy throughout the story due to suspension terms. It added a sense of authenticity to his character.
I feel that for book one of the Royals and Legends series, this was a good baseline for what's to come in book two of the series and I look forward to reading the continuation of Xavier and Victoria's story. I also look forward to the future books mentioned in the acknowledgements that have not been published yet.
Overall, 4.5/5. I would recommend this book to those who like sports romances, especially soccer romances like Ana Huang's the Defender and the Striker. I would also recommend this book to readers who like more of a mystery and suspense element to their romance books. Because of the sexual content in this book, I would recommend it to readers 18+
Thank you Hambright PR for providing me with a copy to read and review.
November 24, 2025
Victoria is a media relations director for an NFL team in New York. On a visit to England to finalize selling her childhood vacation home, she is stopped on the side of the road when a handsome stranger stops to see if she’s having car trouble. After sending him on her way, she assumes that she will never see him again, only to run into him later in a local pub and find out that he is a soccer superstar. When more chance encounters lead to several nights of passion, she finds it hard to walk away, despite her rule rules never to get involved with athletes.
Xavier is known for his playboy ways, while he keeps it out of the press, his reputation with the ladies preceeds him. But when he sees a beautiful redhead pacing on the side of the road, he can’t help but stop. As he continues to run into Victoria and they eventually succumb to their passion, he finds himself wanting to unleash sides of him that he has kept buried for years, and when it turns out that some of his secrets are also tied to her own, they face a challenge neither of them ever saw coming.
I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR and I absolutely loved it! While I expected it to be like many sports romances, the secrets of their pasts just took it to a whole new level. The chemistry between Victoria and Xavier flew off the page right from the beginning, and although they both exude unmatched confidence when it comes to casual hookups, neither thinks they could ever deserve love, let alone find it. Their whirlwind romance swept me off my feet right along with them, and watching them help each other put their broken pieces back together had me unable to put this book down.
While the book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, several questions are left unanswered, but book 2, The Penalty is also available now to finish out their story.
Xavier is known for his playboy ways, while he keeps it out of the press, his reputation with the ladies preceeds him. But when he sees a beautiful redhead pacing on the side of the road, he can’t help but stop. As he continues to run into Victoria and they eventually succumb to their passion, he finds himself wanting to unleash sides of him that he has kept buried for years, and when it turns out that some of his secrets are also tied to her own, they face a challenge neither of them ever saw coming.
I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR and I absolutely loved it! While I expected it to be like many sports romances, the secrets of their pasts just took it to a whole new level. The chemistry between Victoria and Xavier flew off the page right from the beginning, and although they both exude unmatched confidence when it comes to casual hookups, neither thinks they could ever deserve love, let alone find it. Their whirlwind romance swept me off my feet right along with them, and watching them help each other put their broken pieces back together had me unable to put this book down.
While the book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, several questions are left unanswered, but book 2, The Penalty is also available now to finish out their story.
October 4, 2024
⚽️The Keeper by Lynn Montagano
Book 1 from the Royals and Legends Series
Ok ok ok, I think I’m taking on too many ARC’s lately especially with my full time job schedule and being a mom! I made the happy mistake with reading this book first, when I received an ARC for the author’s second book, which I missed the deadline to review! Alas, I liked this book so much that regardless of the missed deadline, I’ll be reading it anyways! Anyone one else feel me on taking on too many ARC’s at one time?!? 😅
The Keeper is a contemporary sports romance (soccer/football) with a hint of mystery! I loved going blind into this book because the twists and turns surprised me! Note: there are a couple of trigger warnings in this, so please check them before reading!
Victoria is our FMC and has endured pain and trauma in her youth. An American who spent time in the UK as a youth, goes back to the UK to sell her childhood “holiday” home which is full of happy, but mostly painful memories.
Enter Xavier, our MMC, a famous, superstar goalie that by chance and by fate, runs into Victoria and by the intense connection, jumps into a whirlwind romance together. I love how he starts off as a F boy, but turns into such a romantic, caring man for Victoria.
With time spent together, there is tons of 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and tender movements sharing their traumas to each other, but what comes as a shock near the end of the book is the mystery that pops in out of the blue, leaving the reader on sort of a cliffhanger!
Read this if you like:
* Sports romance (soccer/football)
* Contemporary romance
* Severe Trauma
* Age appropriate couple (both in mid 30s)
* Mystery and some dark undertones
* Instalove
* 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5 but with tons of plot
“I want there to be a reason for you to come back here. To come back to me.”
3.75 out of 5 ⭐️
Let me know your thoughts!
#thekeeper #lynnmontagano #bookstagram #romance #booklover #sportsromance
Book 1 from the Royals and Legends Series
Ok ok ok, I think I’m taking on too many ARC’s lately especially with my full time job schedule and being a mom! I made the happy mistake with reading this book first, when I received an ARC for the author’s second book, which I missed the deadline to review! Alas, I liked this book so much that regardless of the missed deadline, I’ll be reading it anyways! Anyone one else feel me on taking on too many ARC’s at one time?!? 😅
The Keeper is a contemporary sports romance (soccer/football) with a hint of mystery! I loved going blind into this book because the twists and turns surprised me! Note: there are a couple of trigger warnings in this, so please check them before reading!
Victoria is our FMC and has endured pain and trauma in her youth. An American who spent time in the UK as a youth, goes back to the UK to sell her childhood “holiday” home which is full of happy, but mostly painful memories.
Enter Xavier, our MMC, a famous, superstar goalie that by chance and by fate, runs into Victoria and by the intense connection, jumps into a whirlwind romance together. I love how he starts off as a F boy, but turns into such a romantic, caring man for Victoria.
With time spent together, there is tons of 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and tender movements sharing their traumas to each other, but what comes as a shock near the end of the book is the mystery that pops in out of the blue, leaving the reader on sort of a cliffhanger!
Read this if you like:
* Sports romance (soccer/football)
* Contemporary romance
* Severe Trauma
* Age appropriate couple (both in mid 30s)
* Mystery and some dark undertones
* Instalove
* 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5 but with tons of plot
“I want there to be a reason for you to come back here. To come back to me.”
3.75 out of 5 ⭐️
Let me know your thoughts!
#thekeeper #lynnmontagano #bookstagram #romance #booklover #sportsromance
July 17, 2023
3.5 Stars-On the Fence…
In The Keeper, we are introduced to Xavier and Victoria, him a football player in England and her an American publicist for a New York football team. While it sounds like an opposites attract romance, it was much more.
Right off the bat, I wasn’t sure about this coupling. In a damsel in distress incident, Xavier, and Victoria meet, then meet again at an even and like they did, I would take it as a sign. Knowing she was leaving England for New York in three days; Victoria decides why not and gives Xavier a spin. He’s what one would expect, handsome, rich, cocky star footballer. I liked them separately, however together felt forced or fake, I’m not sure which one, either way, I wasn’t feeling any chemistry. What I was feeling is getting to how their paths have crossed in the past.
There’s a lot of these two trying to figure out their “relationship” all the while we are creeping closer and closer to the tragic story of Victoria’s sister. I’m a fan of an angsty read and this one had me turning pages quickly. I was slightly disappointed in the final reveal, not to take anything away from the tragedy.
The book is well written, and my first Lynn Montagano read. While I like her writing style, the steamy scenes weren’t really my taste. I’m over the whole safe word and limits thing and will admit to skimming though those. Along with Xavier and Victoria, we meet a gaggle of friends and family. Killian and Max were my favorite and brought the humor needed to balance things out. The Keeper reads as a standalone with more story to come.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog.
In The Keeper, we are introduced to Xavier and Victoria, him a football player in England and her an American publicist for a New York football team. While it sounds like an opposites attract romance, it was much more.
Right off the bat, I wasn’t sure about this coupling. In a damsel in distress incident, Xavier, and Victoria meet, then meet again at an even and like they did, I would take it as a sign. Knowing she was leaving England for New York in three days; Victoria decides why not and gives Xavier a spin. He’s what one would expect, handsome, rich, cocky star footballer. I liked them separately, however together felt forced or fake, I’m not sure which one, either way, I wasn’t feeling any chemistry. What I was feeling is getting to how their paths have crossed in the past.
There’s a lot of these two trying to figure out their “relationship” all the while we are creeping closer and closer to the tragic story of Victoria’s sister. I’m a fan of an angsty read and this one had me turning pages quickly. I was slightly disappointed in the final reveal, not to take anything away from the tragedy.
The book is well written, and my first Lynn Montagano read. While I like her writing style, the steamy scenes weren’t really my taste. I’m over the whole safe word and limits thing and will admit to skimming though those. Along with Xavier and Victoria, we meet a gaggle of friends and family. Killian and Max were my favorite and brought the humor needed to balance things out. The Keeper reads as a standalone with more story to come.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog.
August 19, 2024
This is a book that knows how to equally balance light and dark, love and loss, humor and heartache! Lynn Montagano's The Keeper is an elegant, suspense-filled romance that fascinates you from the first page and never lets go! This modern sports romance, set in the English countryside, introduces us to Victoria Chase, a bright and independent American executive, and Xavier Maddox, a British football star with brooding devotion! Their connection is quick, and their chemistry is pulsating , but the emotional baggage they both carry really delivers a dimension of nuance to this work, elevating it above a basic love tale, this steamy romance has PLOTTTT and a brutally honest, raw and visceral unlike I've read in any sports romance book!!!
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Lynn Montagano beautifully unfolds a story that brings together obsessed romance with a hint of mystery. The characters are richly nuanced, with each dealing with their own previous traumas, making their road to recovery and love all the more engaging. The story twists are surprising yet satisfying, that kept me on edge without seeming constructed!
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The writing is sharp and enchanting, and the conversation is full of humour and honesty. Victoria and Xavier's intimate moments are vibrant and passionate, but they are also anchored in vulnerability! This is a story about overcoming the past, accepting the future, and seeking love in the most unexpected places! This story is a must-read for lovers of contemporary romance, thanks to its intriguing plot, well-drawn characters, and ideal balance between spice and structure. Lynn Montagano has written a story that has left me eager for the next volume in the Royals and Legends series!
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Lynn Montagano beautifully unfolds a story that brings together obsessed romance with a hint of mystery. The characters are richly nuanced, with each dealing with their own previous traumas, making their road to recovery and love all the more engaging. The story twists are surprising yet satisfying, that kept me on edge without seeming constructed!
.
The writing is sharp and enchanting, and the conversation is full of humour and honesty. Victoria and Xavier's intimate moments are vibrant and passionate, but they are also anchored in vulnerability! This is a story about overcoming the past, accepting the future, and seeking love in the most unexpected places! This story is a must-read for lovers of contemporary romance, thanks to its intriguing plot, well-drawn characters, and ideal balance between spice and structure. Lynn Montagano has written a story that has left me eager for the next volume in the Royals and Legends series!
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