Brooke and Reed were a great pairing. He pulled the confidence out in her, making her stronger and more sure, and she smoothed out his rough edges and gave him something to work for besides hockey.
Brooke, the busy single mom who also happened to be the daughter of the hockey coach, catches Reed's eye immediately, and they both feel a connection that is anything but casual. Initially, she doesn't know he's a hockey player, and he doesn't know she's the coach's daughter, so there's extra tension in wondering when they'll figure it out, and what will happen when they do. Apart from the forbidden/coach's daughter aspect there's a lot here. Emotional and dark pasts for both characters, found family in Reed's close friends, possessive and protective hero, and, of course, spice can all be found in this fast paced, difficult to put down story.
From the very beginning, I was hooked on Reed and Brooke. He gives her a nickname immediately, and I really liked that it wasn't your usual "baby" or something equally inane. Cookie, and the reason he calls her that, are much more interesting and endearing. And the Cookie's Boyfriend pjs? *swoon*
My heart broke for Reed, for his difficult early life, and for the things he dealt with at a young age. I also empathized with Brooke, because I am also a mother, and I know how hard it can be to juggle all the things you need to do and still find quality time with your little monster(s) while also finding the space to do things for yourself.
I loved the relationship between Reed and Caleb; it's always so sweet to see a big, hulking guy get on the floor with the little kid and play. I also really liked Reed's roommates and seeing how much they all cared about one another. It's a nice balance for all of the darker topics in the book.
It did seem like the ending happened really fast, and that it felt maybe a little too good to be true, but I didn't mind too much because all the ends got tied up nicely, and because I just wanted good things for both Reed and Brooke (and Caleb!).
Overall, it was a satisfying read about heartache, love, and redemption, and I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a hockey romance with a broody hero and a sweet but strong heroine. And a really cute 3 year old.
Thank you so much to Kristin Lee for gifting me with an early copy of your book, and for letting me be on your arc team. I am voluntarily writing and sharing my review.