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Lake Spark #1
Worth the Risk
Coach Hudson Arrows wants to sweep Piper off her feet, the fact she’s his niece’s best friend? May just send him into overtime. A scorching one-night stand with a stranger was supposed to be my night of adventure to enjoy and move on. I didn’t expect that a few weeks later my friend would introduce said stranger as the man walking her down the aisle because he’s her godfather and uncle. And I certainly didn’t expect him to be a famous football coach who insists I escape with him to his small town lake house for a rendezvous. He may be old enough to be my dad, but the man’s charisma is a winning touchdown straight to my lust-filled mind that agrees. We keep our relationship a secret. It doesn’t take long for me to realize that there is more to Hudson than his dirty talking mouth and his persistence that I may be what he’s been waiting for. What we have turns into something I didn’t bargain for. But I’m not blinded by what is at stake once the world finds out about us. And I’m not sure if it’s Hudson or me trying to convince us more, that together, we may just be worth the risk… Hudson and Piper bring the heat into this age-gap, slightly forbidden, and completely swoonworthy story. Worth the Risk is book one in the standalone interconnected Lake Spark series. For lovers of small-town romance with a touch of sports.
Author's This is the same story as the ebook with a special paperback cover.
Author's This is the same story as the ebook with a special paperback cover.
252 pages, Paperback
First published January 10, 2023
1055 people are currently reading
1507 people want to read
About the author
Evey Lyon
44 books416 followersEvey writes heartwarming romances with steamy moments, often in small-town settings with an element of sports. An American from the Midwest, she now lives in a tiny country in Europe where it rains a lot. That is probably why she occupies her days typing away on her laptop with music on repeat and slow-roast coffee nearby. Oh, and she vows to never break up with cake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
January 27, 2026
3.5 stars
I’m a sucker for an age gap romance and this one had all the right vibes! An older, wealthy and famous football coach and the younger fashion designer who also happens to be his niece’s best friend — so good!
Where this book fell a bit short for me was I needed a bit more angst and conflict to really drive home the forbidden romance element. However, that’s just a personal preference and not a critique on the book itself.
This was an easy and enjoyable read that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a cozy age gap romance.
I’m a sucker for an age gap romance and this one had all the right vibes! An older, wealthy and famous football coach and the younger fashion designer who also happens to be his niece’s best friend — so good!
Where this book fell a bit short for me was I needed a bit more angst and conflict to really drive home the forbidden romance element. However, that’s just a personal preference and not a critique on the book itself.
This was an easy and enjoyable read that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a cozy age gap romance.
January 29, 2026
Thank you Hambright and Evey Lyon for the opportunity to ARC read this book. My official rating is 3.75, rounded up to account for GR rating system.
There were many parts about this book that I enjoyed, however; the characters and the pacing fell too flat to really get into it. I didn’t feel the “forbidden” aspect as much as I would’ve liked to in an age gap romance in which she is his nieces best friend. The dialogue seemed to cause more dragging than I would’ve expected.
If you like forbidden and age gap romances, it’s definitely worth a read!
There were many parts about this book that I enjoyed, however; the characters and the pacing fell too flat to really get into it. I didn’t feel the “forbidden” aspect as much as I would’ve liked to in an age gap romance in which she is his nieces best friend. The dialogue seemed to cause more dragging than I would’ve expected.
If you like forbidden and age gap romances, it’s definitely worth a read!
February 10, 2026
4🌟, 3🌶️
Sometimes taking the risk is worth it, and this book proves that point.
What starts as a rainy-night one night stand quickly turns complicated when Piper realizes Hudson is not just a famous football coach, but also her best friend’s uncle. The setup is instantly intriguing, and the forbidden element adds just enough tension to pull you in without making the story feel heavy.
Hudson completely stole the show for me. He is confident, emotionally steady, and refreshingly certain about Piper, which makes their relationship feel safe and intentional. Piper feels grounded and relatable, torn between her growing feelings and the potential fallout. I especially loved that the tension comes from the situation itself rather than unnecessary miscommunication, and the side relationships add warmth and emotional depth.
While I wouldn’t have minded a little more angst, the fast pace, sharp banter, and strong chemistry made this such an enjoyable read. The spice delivers, the humor lands, and the overall vibe is cozy and flirty.
It is the kind of book you breeze through with a smile and close feeling satisfied.
~~~~
Grateful to Evey Lyon and Hambright PR for this copy. All views expressed are solely my own.
Sometimes taking the risk is worth it, and this book proves that point.
What starts as a rainy-night one night stand quickly turns complicated when Piper realizes Hudson is not just a famous football coach, but also her best friend’s uncle. The setup is instantly intriguing, and the forbidden element adds just enough tension to pull you in without making the story feel heavy.
Hudson completely stole the show for me. He is confident, emotionally steady, and refreshingly certain about Piper, which makes their relationship feel safe and intentional. Piper feels grounded and relatable, torn between her growing feelings and the potential fallout. I especially loved that the tension comes from the situation itself rather than unnecessary miscommunication, and the side relationships add warmth and emotional depth.
While I wouldn’t have minded a little more angst, the fast pace, sharp banter, and strong chemistry made this such an enjoyable read. The spice delivers, the humor lands, and the overall vibe is cozy and flirty.
It is the kind of book you breeze through with a smile and close feeling satisfied.
~~~~
Grateful to Evey Lyon and Hambright PR for this copy. All views expressed are solely my own.
July 29, 2024
3.5 enjoyable
I liked couple. They, specifically him, didn't leave miscommunication or avoidance situations last long. I liked the steamy build up to their first encounter then black, jumping to a later date but we get the details through conversation/ reminiscences.
The intimate scenes weren't the same .
I did skim in some parts even though the conversation 2 of the characters were having was small insights to them or others, I wanted to move on.
I loved all her attempts at sexy surprises. Enjoyable. Liked the epilogue. I had just reread the beautiful cross culture "Two Brides for Ewan Buchan" set in the 1100's so maybe this wasn't exactly what I was feeling when I started it, so 3.5 instead of 4.
I liked couple. They, specifically him, didn't leave miscommunication or avoidance situations last long. I liked the steamy build up to their first encounter then black, jumping to a later date but we get the details through conversation/ reminiscences.
The intimate scenes weren't the same .
I did skim in some parts even though the conversation 2 of the characters were having was small insights to them or others, I wanted to move on.
I loved all her attempts at sexy surprises. Enjoyable. Liked the epilogue. I had just reread the beautiful cross culture "Two Brides for Ewan Buchan" set in the 1100's so maybe this wasn't exactly what I was feeling when I started it, so 3.5 instead of 4.
February 6, 2026
3,75/5 ⭐️
✨️ Sport Romance
✨️ "Forbidden" Romance
✨️ One Night Stand
✨️ Age Gap
✨️ Insta-Lust
✨️ Fast Paced & Steamy
✨️ Interconnected Standalone
✨️ Sport Romance
✨️ "Forbidden" Romance
✨️ One Night Stand
✨️ Age Gap
✨️ Insta-Lust
✨️ Fast Paced & Steamy
✨️ Interconnected Standalone
January 11, 2023
A new series is off to a great start. I have read this author for some time, and she never disappoints. Worth the risk, had me drawn in quickly, Piper went out of her comfort zone, and her one-night stand is related to her best friend. Then that one night is unforgettable.
Will Hudson and Piper get to know each other, or leave the night in the Past? Will the gap in their ages continue her doubts?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Will Hudson and Piper get to know each other, or leave the night in the Past? Will the gap in their ages continue her doubts?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 23, 2026
Worth the Risk” is an absolute gem! It has everything—one-night stands, an age gap, a bit of forbidden romance, a secret relationship, and so much more. The story follows Piper and Hudson, who meet by chance on a rainy night at a bar, where a mind-blowing one-night stand leads to a whirlwind of emotions. Piper, not being into sports, has no idea who Hudson is, which only adds to his intrigue. But when they meet again at her best friend’s engagement, Piper is shocked to discover that Hudson is her friend’s uncle! (And to make things even more interesting, she ran off before Hudson could wake up after their night together.)
What I love most about this story is how Hudson’s love for Piper is so steady and mature. Despite piper’s insecurities, he holds her close and keeps her grounded. Their relationship is beautiful and real. Piper’s best friend April, while angry and hurt by the lies, is also written with depth and understanding.
Hudson’s humor is another highlight, he knows just how to calm Piper’s nerves, and his relationship with his son, niece April, and everyone around him is heartwarming. And Piper’s bond with her grandmother? Simply beautiful.
This book is a solid 4.5-star read, and I highly recommend it. Huge thanks to the author and Hambright PR for providing me with this beautiful ARC!
What I love most about this story is how Hudson’s love for Piper is so steady and mature. Despite piper’s insecurities, he holds her close and keeps her grounded. Their relationship is beautiful and real. Piper’s best friend April, while angry and hurt by the lies, is also written with depth and understanding.
Hudson’s humor is another highlight, he knows just how to calm Piper’s nerves, and his relationship with his son, niece April, and everyone around him is heartwarming. And Piper’s bond with her grandmother? Simply beautiful.
This book is a solid 4.5-star read, and I highly recommend it. Huge thanks to the author and Hambright PR for providing me with this beautiful ARC!
February 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.75 stars)
Worth the Risk was a fun, fast-paced read that kept me entertained from start to finish! While I didn’t quite love it enough to give it 4 stars, I definitely enjoyed the ride.
At first, I thought, wow, this is moving really fast, but after a few chapters, I understood the structure and flow of the story. Hudson’s all-or-nothing approach made the pacing feel intentional, though at times, it did feel a bit unrealistic. That said, it didn’t bother me too much because the book was such a light, enjoyable escape.
The spice? Absolutely on point! And the humor? Even better. The characters had such funny banter that I found myself laughing out loud at their comments. Their chemistry was great, and the overall tone of the book made it such a chill, easy read.
Worth the Risk was a fun, fast-paced read that kept me entertained from start to finish! While I didn’t quite love it enough to give it 4 stars, I definitely enjoyed the ride.
At first, I thought, wow, this is moving really fast, but after a few chapters, I understood the structure and flow of the story. Hudson’s all-or-nothing approach made the pacing feel intentional, though at times, it did feel a bit unrealistic. That said, it didn’t bother me too much because the book was such a light, enjoyable escape.
The spice? Absolutely on point! And the humor? Even better. The characters had such funny banter that I found myself laughing out loud at their comments. Their chemistry was great, and the overall tone of the book made it such a chill, easy read.
January 27, 2026
Este livro não funcionou para mim🫣
A escrita da autora estava-me a fazer confusão e throwing me off da história
Não senti química entre as personagens e não me conectei com nenhuma delas😕
Sinto que, tanto a história como as personagens, ficaram muito a um nível muito superficial, sem nunca aprofundar
E irritou-me que ele dizia uma coisa, mas fazia outra, apressando-a sem ela estar pronto para as coisas
A escrita da autora estava-me a fazer confusão e throwing me off da história
Não senti química entre as personagens e não me conectei com nenhuma delas😕
Sinto que, tanto a história como as personagens, ficaram muito a um nível muito superficial, sem nunca aprofundar
E irritou-me que ele dizia uma coisa, mas fazia outra, apressando-a sem ela estar pronto para as coisas
October 29, 2023
Trust Is Everything
I absolutely love Hudson Arrows and Piper Dapper. 😍 He moves at the speed of light, jumping in with both feet. She's happier going at the pace of a snail when it comes to a relationship and sticking in one toe at a time.
They are just so freaking cute together, age gap be damned.
They have great chemistry, like surprising the other, and have hot, hot times whenever possible. 🥵🧊🔥🩷 They are quickly comfortable being with each other and have an abundance of trust. It's not all easy, but things are very low in the angst department.
This is my first time reading/listening to Evey's work, but I'll be back. I mean, with that setup for book 2, how can I stay away? 😘
I listened to a copy of the audio book while reading along. The narrators are Tim Paige and Marie Hawkins. I really like both, but I also really, really wish this was in duet narration.
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
I absolutely love Hudson Arrows and Piper Dapper. 😍 He moves at the speed of light, jumping in with both feet. She's happier going at the pace of a snail when it comes to a relationship and sticking in one toe at a time.
“I’m getting to know you piece by piece. Normally I’m an all-at-once kind of guy, but for you, I think I could wait until I find every piece of your puzzle.”
-- Hudson Arrows
They are just so freaking cute together, age gap be damned.
“We’re moving fast, but if I blink, I know I could have it all with you because I see it. I’ve never experienced this before.”
-- Piper Dapper
They have great chemistry, like surprising the other, and have hot, hot times whenever possible. 🥵🧊🔥🩷 They are quickly comfortable being with each other and have an abundance of trust. It's not all easy, but things are very low in the angst department.
This is my first time reading/listening to Evey's work, but I'll be back. I mean, with that setup for book 2, how can I stay away? 😘
I listened to a copy of the audio book while reading along. The narrators are Tim Paige and Marie Hawkins. I really like both, but I also really, really wish this was in duet narration.
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
October 16, 2023
I received an ALC for this book, thanks to wordsmithpublicity.
The performance of the narrators was good and it was entertaining.
Tim Paige and Marie Hawkins was new to me and I've had hard time to feel confortable with their voices but in the end, it was a great duo for this book. Maybe if this was a duet, I would have appreciated it even more.
I loved Hudson and Piper, they have this bond between them, even if after only a one-night stand. When they meet again, it seems difficult for them to hide their attraction for one another but Piper is afraid of what her best friend April will think of it. April happened to be Hudson niece so it seems complicated.
I smiled a lot thanks to Piper and her thoughts cause she always speaks so quickly what she have in my mind before thinking it through 😅. I loved that about her, a lot.
Hudson was wise, and calm but also totally and deeply fond of Piper so quickly, it was adorable.
I loved what they created together, a strong love, but for me I was missing the humour that the author usually put in her books 😅. Besides that, I enjoyed this book and I recommend it. It was easy to read and enjoyable.
Now I want to know about April’s story, I’m sure it will be as good as this one.
The performance of the narrators was good and it was entertaining.
Tim Paige and Marie Hawkins was new to me and I've had hard time to feel confortable with their voices but in the end, it was a great duo for this book. Maybe if this was a duet, I would have appreciated it even more.
I loved Hudson and Piper, they have this bond between them, even if after only a one-night stand. When they meet again, it seems difficult for them to hide their attraction for one another but Piper is afraid of what her best friend April will think of it. April happened to be Hudson niece so it seems complicated.
I smiled a lot thanks to Piper and her thoughts cause she always speaks so quickly what she have in my mind before thinking it through 😅. I loved that about her, a lot.
Hudson was wise, and calm but also totally and deeply fond of Piper so quickly, it was adorable.
I loved what they created together, a strong love, but for me I was missing the humour that the author usually put in her books 😅. Besides that, I enjoyed this book and I recommend it. It was easy to read and enjoyable.
Now I want to know about April’s story, I’m sure it will be as good as this one.
January 13, 2023
What a scenario! Piper meets a guy while decompressing a rough day at a bar and meets a handsome older stranger and they end up in an unforgettable one night stand. Hudson, an older, successful coach, the youngest in the NFL, and he can't stop thinking about Piper, but will he ever see her again? Well, turns out, Piper is his nieces best friend. What an awkward reunion! LOL Piper is confident yet shy and while she knows she shouldn't even entertain the idea of more time with Hudson, she can't deny their amazing chemistry.
Piper and Hudson were so sexy and sweet together. While they didn't set out looking for forever, I liked seeing how they were self reflecting and how important they became to each other. We see how they navigate their secret relationship, anxious to be out in the world and hoping Piper's best friend will accept the news. Page turner with all the spice and love seeing a guy fall completely in love with his girl.
Piper and Hudson were so sexy and sweet together. While they didn't set out looking for forever, I liked seeing how they were self reflecting and how important they became to each other. We see how they navigate their secret relationship, anxious to be out in the world and hoping Piper's best friend will accept the news. Page turner with all the spice and love seeing a guy fall completely in love with his girl.
October 31, 2023
2.5⭐️
I went into this book expecting three things: sports, small-town and age-gap. But I got a barely-mentioned age-gap (I honestly forgot that the FMC was way younger) with a whole lot of instalove and little character development, with a side of controlling man that is presented as "supportive" compared to a controlling ex
I went into this book expecting three things: sports, small-town and age-gap. But I got a barely-mentioned age-gap (I honestly forgot that the FMC was way younger) with a whole lot of instalove and little character development, with a side of controlling man that is presented as "supportive" compared to a controlling ex
January 31, 2026
#Review: *Worth the Risk* - Evey Lyon [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
In spite of their pretty big age gap (17 years), Piper and Huston Arrows had an instant chemistry which was an easy path to a steamy one night stand. Piper never thought that the man she left behind in that room will turn out to be someone related to her best friend and a famous football coach. From the thought that they would never see each other again, Piper and Coach Hudson have gotten to a point where they couldn't deny their feelings anymore and kept on seeing each other in secret. Things would only get more complicated, because of their age difference and because Piper was afraid of her best friend's reaction to this relationship. Can their connection resist in front of all those uncertainties?
Even though I'm not a huge lover of stories with such a big age gap, in this book I felt like Piper and Hudson fitted so well together and that gap really didn't matter. I can tell you that they had a super strong explosion, with lots of spicy scenes, where these two were completely enamored with each other. I liked how Piper's character was built, representing a strong woman, but even these types have their own insecurities and Piper was one of them. Hudson was super convinced about their connection and was determined to fight for what they had.
This book was a nice surprise to me, being constantly captivated by these characters and their secret romance, which was super hot!
Thank you so much Hambright Pr for this e-book🩵.
▫️Age Gap (25/42)
▫️One Night Stand
▫️Best Friend's Uncle
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Small Town
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
In spite of their pretty big age gap (17 years), Piper and Huston Arrows had an instant chemistry which was an easy path to a steamy one night stand. Piper never thought that the man she left behind in that room will turn out to be someone related to her best friend and a famous football coach. From the thought that they would never see each other again, Piper and Coach Hudson have gotten to a point where they couldn't deny their feelings anymore and kept on seeing each other in secret. Things would only get more complicated, because of their age difference and because Piper was afraid of her best friend's reaction to this relationship. Can their connection resist in front of all those uncertainties?
Even though I'm not a huge lover of stories with such a big age gap, in this book I felt like Piper and Hudson fitted so well together and that gap really didn't matter. I can tell you that they had a super strong explosion, with lots of spicy scenes, where these two were completely enamored with each other. I liked how Piper's character was built, representing a strong woman, but even these types have their own insecurities and Piper was one of them. Hudson was super convinced about their connection and was determined to fight for what they had.
This book was a nice surprise to me, being constantly captivated by these characters and their secret romance, which was super hot!
Thank you so much Hambright Pr for this e-book🩵.
▫️Age Gap (25/42)
▫️One Night Stand
▫️Best Friend's Uncle
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Small Town
October 26, 2023
I am so glad I found this author. I got lucky to receive an ARC of the newest release and I wanted to go back and read some of the books before it to get a feel for the characters. To say I'm anxious to read that ARC now is an understatement. Anyway, back to THIS book.
This follows Piper and Hudson. Hudson is a coach for the NFL and technically old enough to be Piper's father. So, there is a decent age gap.
They first meet at a bar and have an unforgettable one-night stand. They meet again later when they are introduced to each other. Turns out, Piper is Hudson's niece's best friend. From there they meet up again and quickly realize they can't get enough of each other. It's a balancing act to keep things quiet and for them to figure out how they really feel. When Hudson decides he's in, he's really ALL in. Piper takes a little while longer to come around. I was sitting here cheesy grinning throughout most of the book. It's a quick, easy, mostly light read with some serious steam. I wasn't expecting that either, but I am so happy about it.
This is low angst and low drama, in my opinion. The factors that our characters are challenged with make perfect sense and the small conflicts they have are understandable. It was honestly refreshing to read a book like this. No real third breakup and no other woman or man drama. It felt realistic and entirely relatable (not to me personally) for someone IRL.
I'm immediately jumping into the next one and will be binging the author's backlist.
This follows Piper and Hudson. Hudson is a coach for the NFL and technically old enough to be Piper's father. So, there is a decent age gap.
They first meet at a bar and have an unforgettable one-night stand. They meet again later when they are introduced to each other. Turns out, Piper is Hudson's niece's best friend. From there they meet up again and quickly realize they can't get enough of each other. It's a balancing act to keep things quiet and for them to figure out how they really feel. When Hudson decides he's in, he's really ALL in. Piper takes a little while longer to come around. I was sitting here cheesy grinning throughout most of the book. It's a quick, easy, mostly light read with some serious steam. I wasn't expecting that either, but I am so happy about it.
This is low angst and low drama, in my opinion. The factors that our characters are challenged with make perfect sense and the small conflicts they have are understandable. It was honestly refreshing to read a book like this. No real third breakup and no other woman or man drama. It felt realistic and entirely relatable (not to me personally) for someone IRL.
I'm immediately jumping into the next one and will be binging the author's backlist.
November 4, 2023
Although I liked both Hudson and Piper, I was bored the first 1/2 of the book. Very little excitement or suspense.
It begins as a hook-up and they spend more time focused on his age (42), her age (25), and which sexual positions they favor. In addition, Hudson is a super famous, championship coach and Piper has absolutely no idea. I guess that's amusing???
The biggest conflict is her best friend is also Hudson's niece and Piper is hiding the relationship from April. In my opinion, they both gave April way too much power over their relationship. However, Hudson's plan to reunite the two best friends, was absolute genius.
February 10, 2026
The spice was hitting in this one!
I’m a big fan of an age gap romance! Give me an older man everyday of the week!!!
This one had Hudson and he did not disappoint!! He was giving hot older uncle energy!!
The plot in this one fell a little flat for me unfortunately… I’m all for a cozy cute romance but I went into this one expecting angst and forbidden love, which is totally on me and shouldn’t reflect badly on the book! I feel like if I had gone in expecting cozy this would have ranked higher…
This was a cute cozy spicy age gap romance and if that is something you think you would like then I would say this is the book for you!!
Thank you Hambright PR & Evey Lyons for gifting me this ebook to read and review!
I’m a big fan of an age gap romance! Give me an older man everyday of the week!!!
This one had Hudson and he did not disappoint!! He was giving hot older uncle energy!!
The plot in this one fell a little flat for me unfortunately… I’m all for a cozy cute romance but I went into this one expecting angst and forbidden love, which is totally on me and shouldn’t reflect badly on the book! I feel like if I had gone in expecting cozy this would have ranked higher…
This was a cute cozy spicy age gap romance and if that is something you think you would like then I would say this is the book for you!!
Thank you Hambright PR & Evey Lyons for gifting me this ebook to read and review!
January 31, 2026
A fun and quick age-gap, slightly forbidden, romance. There was spice and lots of growth between Piper and Hudson, loved they journey they went on to determine that their feelings were worth the risk and pursue that happily ever after. I adored the small town touches and the sports references, along with the girl boss attitude of Piper and how Hudson treated Piper like a gem. I’m definitely looking forward to finishing this series!
January 19, 2026
Thank you so much to #HambrightPR and #EveyLyon for the ARC! I will always gobble up a little taboo age gap romance and this was perfect! Read this so fast I barely even stopped to eat dinner or use the loo 😂 being an interconnected stand-alone the character building for everyone was soooo good and has made me desperate to read every book Evey Lyon has written! ❤️
November 24, 2024
It was good, but also kind of felt like it was written by ai.
January 18, 2026
THIS WAS SO FRICKEN CUTE!!!!!!
•older mmc
•age gap
•football
•older mmc
•age gap
•football
January 27, 2026
The perfect age gap romance
October 25, 2024
Yep. I’ll be buying the physical book.
February 3, 2026
ARC REVIEW ✨
•
Worth The Risk by Evey Lyon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Imagine ducking into a random bar after a long day, planning on just one drink. Instead, you end up seated next to a hot, older man, and the attraction is instant. The conversation is effortless, the chemistry undeniable… and before you know it, you’ve done something completely out of character—a one-night stand, followed by a quiet slip out before morning.
Piper and Hudson click immediately… until weeks later, when Piper realizes that her one-night stand is actually her best friend’s uncle. 😳 Despite the obvious complication, they can’t deny what they felt and decide to secretly see where things go—knowing the truth can’t stay hidden forever.
I loved their story. The age gap, undeniable chemistry, flirty banter, and slow-burn tension kept me hooked, and Hudson was absolutely gone for Piper. 💕📚
✨ Thank you @eveylyonbooks & @hambright_pr for this ARC! ✨
#HPRWorththeRisk
#EveyLyon
#HambrightPR
#bookstagram
#bookcommunity
•
Worth The Risk by Evey Lyon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Imagine ducking into a random bar after a long day, planning on just one drink. Instead, you end up seated next to a hot, older man, and the attraction is instant. The conversation is effortless, the chemistry undeniable… and before you know it, you’ve done something completely out of character—a one-night stand, followed by a quiet slip out before morning.
Piper and Hudson click immediately… until weeks later, when Piper realizes that her one-night stand is actually her best friend’s uncle. 😳 Despite the obvious complication, they can’t deny what they felt and decide to secretly see where things go—knowing the truth can’t stay hidden forever.
I loved their story. The age gap, undeniable chemistry, flirty banter, and slow-burn tension kept me hooked, and Hudson was absolutely gone for Piper. 💕📚
✨ Thank you @eveylyonbooks & @hambright_pr for this ARC! ✨
#HPRWorththeRisk
#EveyLyon
#HambrightPR
#bookstagram
#bookcommunity
January 29, 2026
I love a good age gap & billionaire
Hudson and Piper were perfect for each other. What was supposed to be a one-night stand was very out of Piper’s norm. She ends up running into him again at her best friend’s engagement party; turns out it was her best friend’s uncle. Both Hudson and Piper were smitten with each other, so they decided to spend The Weeknd together away from everyone.
Hudson and Piper were perfect for each other. What was supposed to be a one-night stand was very out of Piper’s norm. She ends up running into him again at her best friend’s engagement party; turns out it was her best friend’s uncle. Both Hudson and Piper were smitten with each other, so they decided to spend The Weeknd together away from everyone.
January 5, 2023
4 stars!
A swoony and beautifully romantic age-gap sports romance with a slightly forbidden twist, this is a gorgeous read that is both sexy and sweet, and I loved it!
Piper and Hudson meet one night in a bar, are instantly attracted, share some easy flirting and banter, and end up spending a sizzling night together. Hudson is pretty much smitten, but Piper wants to avoid any awkwardness and leaves in the morning before he wakes. So, she is absolutely mortified when, weeks later, she is at her best friend’s engagement party and is finally introduced to her friend’s Uncle and Godfather… who is none other than the sinfully sexy Hudson. It’s a shock, to be sure, but Hudson seizes the opportunity for what it is – a second chance to truly get to know the woman he can’t stop thinking about. He is a man who hides nothing and who doesn’t hold back. He wants Piper, he suspects they could have something really special, so he just right out tells her, inviting her to his lake house so that they can spend time together.
Piper is torn. She’s had bad luck with men in the past, she’s wary of their age gap (she is 24, he is 42), and she’s just learned that he is a popular NFL coach and she is scared of the judgement that she knows they will get if they’re together. And most of all, she’s worried about how her best friend, April, will react. But, she’s feeling everything that Hudson is feeling, and she’s powerless to stay away, so she agrees to explore things with him at his beautiful lake house.
OMG, I love these two together! They are honest, open and so blessedly functional. They talk about everything – about their lives, their feelings for each other, and the realities of them having a life together. It was beautiful to read about a couple that don’t play games, and don’t hide secrets, and that follow their hearts and be together. And, of course, their chemistry absolutely sizzles. Hudson may be an absolute sweetheart, but he’s got a wicked side and a filthy mouth, and the sexy time is steaming! They relish in their sexual connection, and their deepening feelings for each other only make everything more intense between them.
They do have some hurdles to overcome, but there’s no stupidness or drawn out drama. Their issues are real, and they work through them honestly and sensibly to get to the happy ending that they both want so much.
This is such a gorgeous read, full of sweetness, hotness and swoon. I finished it feeling all fluffy, with a huge grin on my face, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series with Hudson’s neighbour, Spencer’s story.
Loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A swoony and beautifully romantic age-gap sports romance with a slightly forbidden twist, this is a gorgeous read that is both sexy and sweet, and I loved it!
Piper and Hudson meet one night in a bar, are instantly attracted, share some easy flirting and banter, and end up spending a sizzling night together. Hudson is pretty much smitten, but Piper wants to avoid any awkwardness and leaves in the morning before he wakes. So, she is absolutely mortified when, weeks later, she is at her best friend’s engagement party and is finally introduced to her friend’s Uncle and Godfather… who is none other than the sinfully sexy Hudson. It’s a shock, to be sure, but Hudson seizes the opportunity for what it is – a second chance to truly get to know the woman he can’t stop thinking about. He is a man who hides nothing and who doesn’t hold back. He wants Piper, he suspects they could have something really special, so he just right out tells her, inviting her to his lake house so that they can spend time together.
“Why am I acting like a man already addicted?”
Piper is torn. She’s had bad luck with men in the past, she’s wary of their age gap (she is 24, he is 42), and she’s just learned that he is a popular NFL coach and she is scared of the judgement that she knows they will get if they’re together. And most of all, she’s worried about how her best friend, April, will react. But, she’s feeling everything that Hudson is feeling, and she’s powerless to stay away, so she agrees to explore things with him at his beautiful lake house.
“What’s the real reason you’re here?”
I take a deep breath and remind myself that I’m a confident person who might as well be straightforward. “I guess I’ll be blunt.”
“Please. Your candor struck me from the very beginning,” he presses.
“I want to figure out if you’re the man who is the perfect fuck or the man who has the potential to be more.”
If a man ever had a winning grin, then Hudson Arrows just displayed it.
He leans in, his lips brushing along my cheek up toward my ear where I feel the tingle of his stubbled chin.
“Baby, I know I can be both, and I have every intention of showing you.”
OMG, I love these two together! They are honest, open and so blessedly functional. They talk about everything – about their lives, their feelings for each other, and the realities of them having a life together. It was beautiful to read about a couple that don’t play games, and don’t hide secrets, and that follow their hearts and be together. And, of course, their chemistry absolutely sizzles. Hudson may be an absolute sweetheart, but he’s got a wicked side and a filthy mouth, and the sexy time is steaming! They relish in their sexual connection, and their deepening feelings for each other only make everything more intense between them.
“We haven’t even started yet and already it’s promising.”
They do have some hurdles to overcome, but there’s no stupidness or drawn out drama. Their issues are real, and they work through them honestly and sensibly to get to the happy ending that they both want so much.
This is such a gorgeous read, full of sweetness, hotness and swoon. I finished it feeling all fluffy, with a huge grin on my face, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series with Hudson’s neighbour, Spencer’s story.
Loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2023
There’s nothing inherently wrong with this book, it’s just….. boring! The first meeting and the setup were good but there was zero angst and the tension points were in the resolved really quickly. It just felt like a description of a pretty heathy relationship rather then a fictionalised drama…. Which is fine, it’s just…. boring.
Read
January 15, 2023Didn’t hold my attention, but I think I wasn’t in the right headspace. I might come back to this and try again later.
𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.
𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.
April 3, 2025
Arrows is Drew’s biological dad. And if we all remember, he is an impatient man. Hence, during the visit to Olive Owl, he talked to Knox and asked him to keep it on the down low. Leaving no more arguments about Drew not telling him about Abbie. Sorry I went off track, 😀. Anyway, have you heard the one about two people who meet in a bar over drinks, decide to come in from the storm, and hit it off in every way? He sees she’s younger than him, but one night, what can it hurt? She’s a consenting and willing participant.
Unfortunately, she is not beside him when he wakes, and the only name he has is Piper. Piper had the best coupling she had ever had in her entire life. It was just that Piper had never done it before and didn't want the morning-after regret he would have when he woke up to her. Yet, she knew she felt fulfilled. On that night, they both felt fulfilled in that department and couldn't stop thinking about it or each other. So imagine their surprise a few weeks later when Piper arrives late to her best friend April’s engagement party and introduces her to her Uncle Hudson “Bay” as Piper “Ginger.”
Both of their smiles are stiff. However, April is so preoccupied with the comings and goings of the other guests and the conversations of the different guests. With so many guests who wanted to capture her attention, she didn't notice any odd behavior between her uncle and her best friend. Nor their surprised looks of knowledge of one another before that meet-cute. Not even the slip-up of them knowing each other's first names before being introduced. It's the small innuendos that Hudson takes at her expense that make her question his understanding and sanity.
What she can not believe is how she never recognized the man who coaches her grandmother's favorite football team. Everyone but her knows him in her hometown. When he traps her in the ladies' room for a chat, let's say she isn't surprised by his antics. He is known as a man who goes after what he wants, and he has winning teams to show for it. And he wants her. He makes no qualms about either. He doesn't even care if his niece finds out either; it’s Piper who is worried about it.
He wants to see her again, but she’s not sure that is such a good idea. So, he gave her his number and said if she wanted to see him at his lake house, where he would be staying for the summer and where it was more private, to give him a call. Leaving it in her court. So will she or won’t she? However, knowing the gamble wasn’t a big one, from giving minimal to any help to his son for his upcoming wedding, he and Piper will be seeing a lot of one another planning for his niece's wedding.
This was a good book. I just didn't like the way he manipulated Piper with his heavy-handedness in wanting everything his way and on his schedule. Not taking into consideration the way she was feeling, seeing things from her point of view, and not understanding what position this put her in with his very own niece. It was all about him. The one I was proud of was Drew for stepping in and calling him out, telling him he was being a spoiled child.
Unfortunately, she is not beside him when he wakes, and the only name he has is Piper. Piper had the best coupling she had ever had in her entire life. It was just that Piper had never done it before and didn't want the morning-after regret he would have when he woke up to her. Yet, she knew she felt fulfilled. On that night, they both felt fulfilled in that department and couldn't stop thinking about it or each other. So imagine their surprise a few weeks later when Piper arrives late to her best friend April’s engagement party and introduces her to her Uncle Hudson “Bay” as Piper “Ginger.”
Both of their smiles are stiff. However, April is so preoccupied with the comings and goings of the other guests and the conversations of the different guests. With so many guests who wanted to capture her attention, she didn't notice any odd behavior between her uncle and her best friend. Nor their surprised looks of knowledge of one another before that meet-cute. Not even the slip-up of them knowing each other's first names before being introduced. It's the small innuendos that Hudson takes at her expense that make her question his understanding and sanity.
What she can not believe is how she never recognized the man who coaches her grandmother's favorite football team. Everyone but her knows him in her hometown. When he traps her in the ladies' room for a chat, let's say she isn't surprised by his antics. He is known as a man who goes after what he wants, and he has winning teams to show for it. And he wants her. He makes no qualms about either. He doesn't even care if his niece finds out either; it’s Piper who is worried about it.
He wants to see her again, but she’s not sure that is such a good idea. So, he gave her his number and said if she wanted to see him at his lake house, where he would be staying for the summer and where it was more private, to give him a call. Leaving it in her court. So will she or won’t she? However, knowing the gamble wasn’t a big one, from giving minimal to any help to his son for his upcoming wedding, he and Piper will be seeing a lot of one another planning for his niece's wedding.
This was a good book. I just didn't like the way he manipulated Piper with his heavy-handedness in wanting everything his way and on his schedule. Not taking into consideration the way she was feeling, seeing things from her point of view, and not understanding what position this put her in with his very own niece. It was all about him. The one I was proud of was Drew for stepping in and calling him out, telling him he was being a spoiled child.
January 19, 2026
Hudson is a former quarterback turned NFL coach, living in Chicago. During a rainy night, he’s killing time having a drink at one of his favourite bars in the city when a beautiful woman walks in. He buys her a drink and they spend some time talking, before deciding to get a hotel room across the street. After a night of incredible passion, he is disappointed to wake up and find her gone, and assumes he will never see her again. When they do end up reconnecting in an unexpected way, he invites to come spend time with him at his lakehouse, in hopes that they can explore things between them.
Piper is not the type for one-night stands, but she can’t seem to get her mystery man out of her head. Weeks later, she shows up to her best friend’s engagement party, where she is introduced to her uncle and godfather, Hudson. When she takes him up on his offer a week away, she doesn’t know what to expect, but quickly finds herself swept away in a whirlwind romance. Before she can let herself fall fully, she needs to battle two obstacles: her own demons, and telling her best friend she’s falling for her uncle.
I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR and while I really enjoyed the story, it felt a bit like the author was trying too hard. The dialogue felt a bit forced and unnatural (no one uses big words like that in casual conversation), and the overall writing was overcomplicated, and gave the impression of a high school student being extra wordy to hit minimums for essays. The writing aside, the story itself was pretty good, with the premise of the secret romance being at the forefront. While it did feel like Piper was overselling the “my best friend can’t know”, I think that it kind of helped emphasize the age gap between her and Hudson, showing that they were coming from different points in their lives, with Hudson ready to focus on the future while Piper was living in the now. Their chemistry was off the charts, and it was fun to watch their insta-lust turn into love.
Piper is not the type for one-night stands, but she can’t seem to get her mystery man out of her head. Weeks later, she shows up to her best friend’s engagement party, where she is introduced to her uncle and godfather, Hudson. When she takes him up on his offer a week away, she doesn’t know what to expect, but quickly finds herself swept away in a whirlwind romance. Before she can let herself fall fully, she needs to battle two obstacles: her own demons, and telling her best friend she’s falling for her uncle.
I received a copy of this book from Hambright PR and while I really enjoyed the story, it felt a bit like the author was trying too hard. The dialogue felt a bit forced and unnatural (no one uses big words like that in casual conversation), and the overall writing was overcomplicated, and gave the impression of a high school student being extra wordy to hit minimums for essays. The writing aside, the story itself was pretty good, with the premise of the secret romance being at the forefront. While it did feel like Piper was overselling the “my best friend can’t know”, I think that it kind of helped emphasize the age gap between her and Hudson, showing that they were coming from different points in their lives, with Hudson ready to focus on the future while Piper was living in the now. Their chemistry was off the charts, and it was fun to watch their insta-lust turn into love.
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