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Love You Moore #1
I Can Be the One
He's the hot, cocky hockey player I've always had a thing for...and now he's my fake boyfriend.
ALEXIS
Money has always been an issue, and if I want to stay enrolled, I need tuition money fast. The school's Cute Couples Contest can be my saving grace--whichever couple is voted most swoon-worthy by Valentine's Day is offered a tuition-free year. But my only option is the one person I hoped to steer clear of. Blake Taylor is rich, cocky, and...flirting with me?
Ungodly tall and built like a house, Blake could keep me safe from the person stalking me. But with every touch and stolen glance I wonder if my heart needs protection, too.
BLAKE
As Brookside U's star hockey player I only want one thing: to make captain and look hot doing it. So when my current captain asks me for a favor in exchange for a good word to our coach, I don't have to think twice.
The favor? Fake dating his sister, Alexis—the girl I've been crushing on for three years but who's never given me the time of day. This was supposed to be a simple quid-pro-quo, but the more time I spend with her the harder it gets not to fall for her completely. With only one shot at her heart and five months to do it, I have to prove to Alexis that I can be the one, or risk losing her forever.
ALEXIS
Money has always been an issue, and if I want to stay enrolled, I need tuition money fast. The school's Cute Couples Contest can be my saving grace--whichever couple is voted most swoon-worthy by Valentine's Day is offered a tuition-free year. But my only option is the one person I hoped to steer clear of. Blake Taylor is rich, cocky, and...flirting with me?
Ungodly tall and built like a house, Blake could keep me safe from the person stalking me. But with every touch and stolen glance I wonder if my heart needs protection, too.
BLAKE
As Brookside U's star hockey player I only want one thing: to make captain and look hot doing it. So when my current captain asks me for a favor in exchange for a good word to our coach, I don't have to think twice.
The favor? Fake dating his sister, Alexis—the girl I've been crushing on for three years but who's never given me the time of day. This was supposed to be a simple quid-pro-quo, but the more time I spend with her the harder it gets not to fall for her completely. With only one shot at her heart and five months to do it, I have to prove to Alexis that I can be the one, or risk losing her forever.
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About the author
Ellie Blackbourne
5 books44 followersEllie Blackbourne writes sweet & spicy contemporary romance for those whose stories are not often told. Dealing with themes of mental health, chronic illness or neurodivergence, Ellie can't resist writing complicated girls and boys that will leave you swooning.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
February 1, 2025
When I say I DEVOURED this book!
Ellie Blackbourne has me as a fan for life now.
This book had me kicking my feet, laughing, blushing, gasping in shock, and ready to threaten a fictional character with violence. 😂
Alexis and Blake both had such beautiful character development, and I love that even with instant attraction, they still realized the changes they needed in themselves to be better for each other.
I can honestly say I haven’t used the highlight feature this many times EVER in a book. But Ellie had so many good quotes that I just had to save. Truly this book is one that I will read many many more times! I cannot recommend it enough! ❤️
I’m so grateful that I was chosen to receive an arc of this book and am BEGGING yall to read it for yourselves on February 14th when it officially releases!
Ellie Blackbourne has me as a fan for life now.
This book had me kicking my feet, laughing, blushing, gasping in shock, and ready to threaten a fictional character with violence. 😂
Alexis and Blake both had such beautiful character development, and I love that even with instant attraction, they still realized the changes they needed in themselves to be better for each other.
I can honestly say I haven’t used the highlight feature this many times EVER in a book. But Ellie had so many good quotes that I just had to save. Truly this book is one that I will read many many more times! I cannot recommend it enough! ❤️
I’m so grateful that I was chosen to receive an arc of this book and am BEGGING yall to read it for yourselves on February 14th when it officially releases!
February 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
First of all, im so grateful and happy that i received an arc for I Can Be The One! I absolutely devoured this book!
It was a fun, quick, and easy read that made me laugh more than once. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the tension between them. I love alexis and blake together so much.
There were a lot of serious themes touched on throughout the book (please look at TWs first), but i think that they were acknowledged and approached in understanding and patient ways, which i liked. I think the first-person pov really helped this.
However, i do wish there was more detail throughout. I feel it was very fast paced which did make it enjoyable and an easy read but i would have liked to hear more about the competition, the hockey games and the character's backstories so i felt a bit more connected to them.
(Also, I'm begging for a book about Levi and Lottie - i need to know more about them!!)
First of all, im so grateful and happy that i received an arc for I Can Be The One! I absolutely devoured this book!
It was a fun, quick, and easy read that made me laugh more than once. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the tension between them. I love alexis and blake together so much.
There were a lot of serious themes touched on throughout the book (please look at TWs first), but i think that they were acknowledged and approached in understanding and patient ways, which i liked. I think the first-person pov really helped this.
However, i do wish there was more detail throughout. I feel it was very fast paced which did make it enjoyable and an easy read but i would have liked to hear more about the competition, the hockey games and the character's backstories so i felt a bit more connected to them.
(Also, I'm begging for a book about Levi and Lottie - i need to know more about them!!)
February 2, 2025
Solid 4.5 ⭐️ I’m so grateful I got to be an ARC for this book because WOW! First off, it only took me a day to read it and as an autoimmune girly - this one made me feel so seen. I love the development of the plot, I don’t feel like it went too fast or too slow! The dual POV was done well and I felt as though that added to the story. I love the tropes including brothers best friend, it’s always been you, and working through some trauma. All of it was done well and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next!
I do feel like there was a bit left unanswered regarding some family things but it didn’t make or break the story for me.
I do feel like there was a bit left unanswered regarding some family things but it didn’t make or break the story for me.
February 16, 2025
This was the cutesy equivalent of the first sunny day after a week of zero-degree winter weather.
Alexis is a simple person, and I LOVE THAT. She likes to read, wants to be a teacher, loves her family, and she’s kind—she reads so authentically that the nickname “sunshine” finally feels right for an FMC. I also appreciated the thoughtful approach the author took in conveying Alexis’s chronic illness. This is the second book I’ve read where a character has fibromyalgia and I liked the representation.
Blake is great, truly—he’s a golden retriever for a majority of the time. He had a couple of machismo moments, and it was giving chihuahua (iykyk). I loved the self-awareness and charm, but sometimes it felt fake, like the author was trying too hard to make him the perfect book boyfriend.
Their relationship was straightforwardly sweet. They were both very supportive of each other, and the comfort they provided one another was wholesome. However, I didn’t like how often Alexis dismissed Blake’s genuine feelings for her, especially when he was always very direct about them. You want to be one of the girls on his roster? GIRL, STAND UP.
My main critique stems from the lack of “show” and the overwhelming amount of “tell.”
We learn really early on that Blake has mommy issues and desperately seeks her attention. I wish we could’ve built up to this reveal, getting some hints that he doesn’t believe someone would willingly love and care for him. Instead, we’re told about his insecurities upfront and early on. Also, when he finally identifies his commitment to hockey as his attempt to earn his mother’s love, the realization comes out of nowhere. Good for him for the self-reflection, but when and how did he figure all that out?!?!
Similarly, we’re told that he’s a troublemaker, but we never see this—not even through some flashbacks. He has a reputation as a bad boy, but there’s nothing to back that up. He seems like a regular guy who’s not looking for anything serious, which in college is just normal.
I wish we had gotten more information about their first meeting freshman year. Alexis and Blake keep saying that they’ve been crushing on each another this whole time because apparently it was love at first sight, but it’s hard to believe that their first encounter was anything meaningful when we don’t get any details about what happened or how it felt. It isn’t until the last couple of chapters that we finally get some context, but by then, it doesn’t even make a difference anymore because we’ve already seen them build layers in their relationship that go beyond that initial encounter.
The smut was… disappointing. Blake made it seem like he wanted their first kiss to be really sweet and romantic, but then when it actually happened it felt like such a cheap moment. All that tension built up, and it wasn’t even worth it. To make it worse, a random afternoon fuck wasn’t good enough, but when they finally decide to have sex they go ahead and do it in a tent, with the rest of the contestants and camera crew as an audience!?!? NO THANK YOU ON BOTH FRONTS. Nobody wanted to be an audible witness to that 😭😫 Everyone’s staring the next morning was so valid. Bring back public shame.
While this is a contemporary story, there is world-building involved, and it was done a little absurdly, not gonna lie.
We never get a clear answer on why Alexis is paying for all of college herself. Don’t get me wrong—I’m from a low-income household, and I relied on financial aid plus a part-time job to help cover the cost of my studies. I understand that her siblings were there on sports scholarships, however, the home life described during their winter break was not exactly conveying “poor family.” Supposedly, she would have to drop out if she didn’t win the prize money, but her parents seemed like the type to have that same amount saved up, so I wasn’t exactly feeling the high stakes of her financial situation.
Then there’s the contest, which gets turned into a mini reality tv series for marketing purposes—and it was giving scam. In general, the competition’s rules could’ve been laid out better. Obviously, I was not expecting it to be fully realistic, but the fact that the prize money is supposed to cover tuition when it’s only a couple of grand is… questionable. Also, how much money did they spend on the dates and overall production?! How is a contest like that supposed to improve their image and bring in money?! “I want to go to this university because they hosted a cute couples contest and broadcasted it on a local station” 😃😃😃
Honestly, the whole university feels like a set. They take a bus to Vermont, so I’m gonna go ahead and say this is in the U.S. You’re telling him she’s in a dorm with her sister (I’m assuming it’s suite-style because they have their own rooms), and they have a kitchen?! Sure, it’s small, but what university has a private kitchen in the actual dorms—not just a common area one for the whole floor?!?!
The other characters are basically extras. We don’t get any sense of family outside of Alexis’s literal family (plus Lottie). Apparently, the hockey team cares about Alexis and is fond of her, but we know nothing about them, so their support at the end didn’t really land the way it should’ve.
Overall, this was an adorably short read. It made me smile during the snowy February days. No one pissed me off—the characters were relatively mature, and the relationship was very sweet—but some elements just felt underdeveloped.
Thank you very much to Ellie Blackbourne for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
Alexis is a simple person, and I LOVE THAT. She likes to read, wants to be a teacher, loves her family, and she’s kind—she reads so authentically that the nickname “sunshine” finally feels right for an FMC. I also appreciated the thoughtful approach the author took in conveying Alexis’s chronic illness. This is the second book I’ve read where a character has fibromyalgia and I liked the representation.
Blake is great, truly—he’s a golden retriever for a majority of the time. He had a couple of machismo moments, and it was giving chihuahua (iykyk). I loved the self-awareness and charm, but sometimes it felt fake, like the author was trying too hard to make him the perfect book boyfriend.
Their relationship was straightforwardly sweet. They were both very supportive of each other, and the comfort they provided one another was wholesome. However, I didn’t like how often Alexis dismissed Blake’s genuine feelings for her, especially when he was always very direct about them. You want to be one of the girls on his roster? GIRL, STAND UP.
My main critique stems from the lack of “show” and the overwhelming amount of “tell.”
We learn really early on that Blake has mommy issues and desperately seeks her attention. I wish we could’ve built up to this reveal, getting some hints that he doesn’t believe someone would willingly love and care for him. Instead, we’re told about his insecurities upfront and early on. Also, when he finally identifies his commitment to hockey as his attempt to earn his mother’s love, the realization comes out of nowhere. Good for him for the self-reflection, but when and how did he figure all that out?!?!
Similarly, we’re told that he’s a troublemaker, but we never see this—not even through some flashbacks. He has a reputation as a bad boy, but there’s nothing to back that up. He seems like a regular guy who’s not looking for anything serious, which in college is just normal.
I wish we had gotten more information about their first meeting freshman year. Alexis and Blake keep saying that they’ve been crushing on each another this whole time because apparently it was love at first sight, but it’s hard to believe that their first encounter was anything meaningful when we don’t get any details about what happened or how it felt. It isn’t until the last couple of chapters that we finally get some context, but by then, it doesn’t even make a difference anymore because we’ve already seen them build layers in their relationship that go beyond that initial encounter.
The smut was… disappointing. Blake made it seem like he wanted their first kiss to be really sweet and romantic, but then when it actually happened it felt like such a cheap moment. All that tension built up, and it wasn’t even worth it. To make it worse, a random afternoon fuck wasn’t good enough, but when they finally decide to have sex they go ahead and do it in a tent, with the rest of the contestants and camera crew as an audience!?!? NO THANK YOU ON BOTH FRONTS. Nobody wanted to be an audible witness to that 😭😫 Everyone’s staring the next morning was so valid. Bring back public shame.
While this is a contemporary story, there is world-building involved, and it was done a little absurdly, not gonna lie.
We never get a clear answer on why Alexis is paying for all of college herself. Don’t get me wrong—I’m from a low-income household, and I relied on financial aid plus a part-time job to help cover the cost of my studies. I understand that her siblings were there on sports scholarships, however, the home life described during their winter break was not exactly conveying “poor family.” Supposedly, she would have to drop out if she didn’t win the prize money, but her parents seemed like the type to have that same amount saved up, so I wasn’t exactly feeling the high stakes of her financial situation.
Then there’s the contest, which gets turned into a mini reality tv series for marketing purposes—and it was giving scam. In general, the competition’s rules could’ve been laid out better. Obviously, I was not expecting it to be fully realistic, but the fact that the prize money is supposed to cover tuition when it’s only a couple of grand is… questionable. Also, how much money did they spend on the dates and overall production?! How is a contest like that supposed to improve their image and bring in money?! “I want to go to this university because they hosted a cute couples contest and broadcasted it on a local station” 😃😃😃
Honestly, the whole university feels like a set. They take a bus to Vermont, so I’m gonna go ahead and say this is in the U.S. You’re telling him she’s in a dorm with her sister (I’m assuming it’s suite-style because they have their own rooms), and they have a kitchen?! Sure, it’s small, but what university has a private kitchen in the actual dorms—not just a common area one for the whole floor?!?!
The other characters are basically extras. We don’t get any sense of family outside of Alexis’s literal family (plus Lottie). Apparently, the hockey team cares about Alexis and is fond of her, but we know nothing about them, so their support at the end didn’t really land the way it should’ve.
Overall, this was an adorably short read. It made me smile during the snowy February days. No one pissed me off—the characters were relatively mature, and the relationship was very sweet—but some elements just felt underdeveloped.
Thank you very much to Ellie Blackbourne for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
February 4, 2025
Ellie Blackbourne, you just gave me another book boyfriend!!
I ate this entire story up and loved every bit of it!! Alexis and Blake's story was so sweet and they're probably one of my favorite book couples. They make each other better and their love is unconditional. Their love was so beautiful! If you're like me and your love language is words of affirmation, this book is perfect for you!
I really loved Alexis and Blake. Starting off with Alexis, seeing her grow into the person she is at the end was so heartwarming. I was so proud of her at the end when she finally allows herself to be happy and feel like she deserves it. Blake Taylor has my whole heart! Literally sets the standards for men. He's respectable, considerate, so sweet, and caring. Seeing him with Alexis made me so giddy I was giggling and kicking my feet! My ARC is covered in highlights because I loved everything this man said.
Once again, if your love language is words of affirmation, you'll LOVE this book! Thank you Ellie Blackbourne for letting be apart of your ARC Team! This was such an enjoyable read and I can't wait for everyone else to meet Alexis and Blake. This was such a beautiful and heartwarming love story that needs to be shared! Save the date for February 14th for the release of I Can Be The One!
I ate this entire story up and loved every bit of it!! Alexis and Blake's story was so sweet and they're probably one of my favorite book couples. They make each other better and their love is unconditional. Their love was so beautiful! If you're like me and your love language is words of affirmation, this book is perfect for you!
I really loved Alexis and Blake. Starting off with Alexis, seeing her grow into the person she is at the end was so heartwarming. I was so proud of her at the end when she finally allows herself to be happy and feel like she deserves it. Blake Taylor has my whole heart! Literally sets the standards for men. He's respectable, considerate, so sweet, and caring. Seeing him with Alexis made me so giddy I was giggling and kicking my feet! My ARC is covered in highlights because I loved everything this man said.
Once again, if your love language is words of affirmation, you'll LOVE this book! Thank you Ellie Blackbourne for letting be apart of your ARC Team! This was such an enjoyable read and I can't wait for everyone else to meet Alexis and Blake. This was such a beautiful and heartwarming love story that needs to be shared! Save the date for February 14th for the release of I Can Be The One!
February 9, 2025
The way I ate this book up so quick, I couldn’t put it down it was such a quick easy read making me swoon and kick my feet at times. Blake and Alexis’ relationship was so sweet, I loved that they both had secretly harboured feelings for each other for years, they both knew they had issues to work on to better themselves with huge character development throughout. As a autoimmune/fibro person, I loved the representation of this from Alexis as so many people haven’t heard of this condition!
There were a few moments throughout the book I wish had been touched on more like Blake’s relationship with his mother but this didn’t take away from the book I think would of just provided a bit more information.
I feel so lucky to have been given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Ellie! Already can’t wait for book 2! This is without a doubt worth a read once released February 14th! 💛
“I’m not a relationship kind of guy. But you, Alexis Moore, are my only exception.”
There were a few moments throughout the book I wish had been touched on more like Blake’s relationship with his mother but this didn’t take away from the book I think would of just provided a bit more information.
I feel so lucky to have been given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Ellie! Already can’t wait for book 2! This is without a doubt worth a read once released February 14th! 💛
“I’m not a relationship kind of guy. But you, Alexis Moore, are my only exception.”
February 14, 2025
Did I read this book in under 24hours? Yes. Yes I did!
I have been in a slump and haven’t been able to get out of it. This book right here helped me! I got captured by the first chapter and devoured it. Blake and Alexis are so cute together and I love the relationship building. This book was amazing!
I have been in a slump and haven’t been able to get out of it. This book right here helped me! I got captured by the first chapter and devoured it. Blake and Alexis are so cute together and I love the relationship building. This book was amazing!
February 1, 2025
This book was truly a beautiful love story. Not only was it funny but also was emotional and made me cry a couple of time from both sadness and happiness. I was giggling and kicking my feet during this whole book. I am so grateful to have been able to get an ARC for this book! Please do yourself a favor and read this book when it comes out on February 14th!
February 15, 2025
Tropes
💗 Fake Dating
🥰 Dirty Talk
💗 Older Brother’s Teammate
🥰 Chronic Illness Rep
💗 Hockey Player
Thank you @ellieblackbourne for the opportunity to read this amazing hockey romance!
💭 My Thoughts 💭
I really liked the dual pov because you got to see the “its always been you” from both characters. I love that they have been mutually pining for one another, but haven’t done anything yet. However, when Blake gets the go ahead from Levi (her older brother and his teammate) he does not waste his shot!
They begin fake dating because she needs money to pay for college, which she can win through a couples contest! I thought this plotline was pretty unique and loved the various dates they went on for the reality tv show contest. However, I do wish we got to see them interviewed together like confessions on reality tv shows it would be interesting to see how they would have answered questions together.
I loved how Blake showed Alexis how beautiful she is and how understanding he is of her chronic pain from fibromyalgia. Seeing Blake be protective of her and flirty was honestly amazing. I love how he protected her from others, herself, and sometimes her family.
I wish Blake’s family and home life were a little more developed. I just wish we got flashbacks maybe of his childhood or more explanations. However, Blake is such a fun lovable character and I enjoyed seeing his growth/self-discovery throughout the novel.
I enjoyed Alexis character, but I wanted to see her open up more to her twin. Especially after the twin discusses how she feels and all the things Alexis has to deal with. I wanted a sibling moment with all three of them Alexis, her twin, and Levi.
The ending felt a bit rushed as this whole contest is happening you get to see the dates, the reactions of the various couples, so I was expecting more from ending. However, I ate this book up, especially because I stayed up until 2am to finish it!
This book is great if you like light spicy romances that deal with deeper themes (abusive,stalking) and meaningful topics (what do you want to do after college). This is a great college age novel that is relatable and unique!
Overall, I can’t wait to see Levi and Lottie’s story! I also loved how Lottie was introduced and can’t wait to see the secret that Alexis mentioned that Lottie has!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💗 Fake Dating
🥰 Dirty Talk
💗 Older Brother’s Teammate
🥰 Chronic Illness Rep
💗 Hockey Player
Thank you @ellieblackbourne for the opportunity to read this amazing hockey romance!
💭 My Thoughts 💭
I really liked the dual pov because you got to see the “its always been you” from both characters. I love that they have been mutually pining for one another, but haven’t done anything yet. However, when Blake gets the go ahead from Levi (her older brother and his teammate) he does not waste his shot!
They begin fake dating because she needs money to pay for college, which she can win through a couples contest! I thought this plotline was pretty unique and loved the various dates they went on for the reality tv show contest. However, I do wish we got to see them interviewed together like confessions on reality tv shows it would be interesting to see how they would have answered questions together.
I loved how Blake showed Alexis how beautiful she is and how understanding he is of her chronic pain from fibromyalgia. Seeing Blake be protective of her and flirty was honestly amazing. I love how he protected her from others, herself, and sometimes her family.
I wish Blake’s family and home life were a little more developed. I just wish we got flashbacks maybe of his childhood or more explanations. However, Blake is such a fun lovable character and I enjoyed seeing his growth/self-discovery throughout the novel.
I enjoyed Alexis character, but I wanted to see her open up more to her twin. Especially after the twin discusses how she feels and all the things Alexis has to deal with. I wanted a sibling moment with all three of them Alexis, her twin, and Levi.
The ending felt a bit rushed as this whole contest is happening you get to see the dates, the reactions of the various couples, so I was expecting more from ending. However, I ate this book up, especially because I stayed up until 2am to finish it!
This book is great if you like light spicy romances that deal with deeper themes (abusive,stalking) and meaningful topics (what do you want to do after college). This is a great college age novel that is relatable and unique!
Overall, I can’t wait to see Levi and Lottie’s story! I also loved how Lottie was introduced and can’t wait to see the secret that Alexis mentioned that Lottie has!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 12, 2025
✨️ARC✨️
A smile pulls at my lips. "So you're treasuring me now?" "Like a goddamn pirate treasures his booty," Blake smirks, leaning in to add, "And this particular
booty is very cute."
"Smells like god-damn heaven. Can I eat it?" "Nope." "Can I eat you?" His face is barely an inch from mine, the look in his eyes revealing his every thought.
I've always believed she was a universe wrapped in skin; I guess this is the proof I've been searching for.
He grins, and the sight of it steals my breath. "Sunshine, you and I both know I can be the one."
As Alexis loses her job, again, her school hosts a 'cute couples contest'. The prize? Her tuition. So what do Alexis, her twin Alissa, and big brother Levi do? They get the hockey team harlot, Blake, to pose as her boyfriend. It's not like Alexis and Blake have crushes on each other or anything. Nope, not these two. Totally platonic.
♡
Oh, guys. This right here. This might be my new favorite. Blakey-bear is such a sweetheart, a walking green flag, and I just adore him so much. As a sufferer of fibromyalgia myself, it was so lovely to read about a man who genuinely cares for Alexis and her pain. Someone who understands and supports, no matter what. Every topic in this book is handled with such care and consideration, it makes me a little emotional. It's a funny, witty, cute, hot, and lovely book, and I think everyone should give it a chance. Especially my hockey girlies♡
Tropes:
•Fake dating
•Spice
•Hockey
•Chronic illness rep
•No 3rd act breakup
•Sunshine / Blakey-bear
•Teammates sister
•He falls first & harder
The book comes out on Valentine's, Feb 14th!
Thank you, Ellie Blackbourne, for this ARC!
Thoughts and opinions are my own.
A smile pulls at my lips. "So you're treasuring me now?" "Like a goddamn pirate treasures his booty," Blake smirks, leaning in to add, "And this particular
booty is very cute."
"Smells like god-damn heaven. Can I eat it?" "Nope." "Can I eat you?" His face is barely an inch from mine, the look in his eyes revealing his every thought.
I've always believed she was a universe wrapped in skin; I guess this is the proof I've been searching for.
He grins, and the sight of it steals my breath. "Sunshine, you and I both know I can be the one."
As Alexis loses her job, again, her school hosts a 'cute couples contest'. The prize? Her tuition. So what do Alexis, her twin Alissa, and big brother Levi do? They get the hockey team harlot, Blake, to pose as her boyfriend. It's not like Alexis and Blake have crushes on each other or anything. Nope, not these two. Totally platonic.
♡
Oh, guys. This right here. This might be my new favorite. Blakey-bear is such a sweetheart, a walking green flag, and I just adore him so much. As a sufferer of fibromyalgia myself, it was so lovely to read about a man who genuinely cares for Alexis and her pain. Someone who understands and supports, no matter what. Every topic in this book is handled with such care and consideration, it makes me a little emotional. It's a funny, witty, cute, hot, and lovely book, and I think everyone should give it a chance. Especially my hockey girlies♡
Tropes:
•Fake dating
•Spice
•Hockey
•Chronic illness rep
•No 3rd act breakup
•Sunshine / Blakey-bear
•Teammates sister
•He falls first & harder
The book comes out on Valentine's, Feb 14th!
Thank you, Ellie Blackbourne, for this ARC!
Thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 21, 2025
💕Achingly Sweet & Swoonworthy💕
“What do you think? Are you ready to fall in love with me?”
“I am yours, Alexis. And yours alone.” Blake smiles, and I silently curse my traitorous heart for skipping a beat.
This book was everything to me, and I loved every second we got with Blake and Alexis! To be loved so genuinely, and with so much devotion that you actually start to feel less anxious and more secure in your own body is such a beautiful thing. Ellie Blackbourne I will read anything you publish in the future.
If you love a man that is so sweet that you get butterflies while reading, you’re going to love Blake Taylor. This man had the cutest crush on Alexis, and it was so fun seeing her slowly realize she was the object of ALL his affection. Blake is definitely up to book boyfriend standards and more. It did hurt my heart that his past made home feel unworthy of true love, but boy did he get that and more as Alexis fell in love with him. These two are just everything!
The story had a good pace, the romance was great, and I really appreciated the health representation with Alexis. It was beautiful seeing her have a partner that is so caring for her well-being even when her siblings weren’t even aware of the full details of what she was going through. If you love he falls first and fake dating as much as I do, I think you’ll be more than happy with this storyline and the sweet sweet ending! Acts of service and physical touch are definitely Blake’s love language, and it was the sweetest to read.
Note: Do not be surprised if I raise my rating to a five star read soonish. It’s marinating in my brain, and I’m finding that I enjoyed tf out of this book!😂(update: I did it!)
“What do you think? Are you ready to fall in love with me?”
“I am yours, Alexis. And yours alone.” Blake smiles, and I silently curse my traitorous heart for skipping a beat.
This book was everything to me, and I loved every second we got with Blake and Alexis! To be loved so genuinely, and with so much devotion that you actually start to feel less anxious and more secure in your own body is such a beautiful thing. Ellie Blackbourne I will read anything you publish in the future.
If you love a man that is so sweet that you get butterflies while reading, you’re going to love Blake Taylor. This man had the cutest crush on Alexis, and it was so fun seeing her slowly realize she was the object of ALL his affection. Blake is definitely up to book boyfriend standards and more. It did hurt my heart that his past made home feel unworthy of true love, but boy did he get that and more as Alexis fell in love with him. These two are just everything!
The story had a good pace, the romance was great, and I really appreciated the health representation with Alexis. It was beautiful seeing her have a partner that is so caring for her well-being even when her siblings weren’t even aware of the full details of what she was going through. If you love he falls first and fake dating as much as I do, I think you’ll be more than happy with this storyline and the sweet sweet ending! Acts of service and physical touch are definitely Blake’s love language, and it was the sweetest to read.
Note: Do not be surprised if I raise my rating to a five star read soonish. It’s marinating in my brain, and I’m finding that I enjoyed tf out of this book!😂(update: I did it!)
February 15, 2025
“When life gives you sunshine as pure as her, you bask in it.”
“A girl so lovely and kind that I’m drawn to her like a moth to a flame.”
“Because Alexis Moore is the sun in my universe, and I only want to be in her orbit.”
Please check content warnings!
Thanks to the author for an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is a super cute short college hockey romance story between two people coming together after yearning for the other for so long! I enjoyed this, it’s an entertaining read with loveable characters and I really like how the author was able to incorporate serious themes into this love story, however the flow of the story could have been more fleshed out/ a bit smoother, some parts of the story felt underdeveloped.
Alexis has fibromyalgia, and we see in certain parts of the story how it affects her everyday living experience! Alexis is definitely a multilayered character and her past experiences is such a real reality for many people and her lived experiences and hesitancy with trusting again was so real and so valid! Her vulnerability and raw feelings with blake made my heart warm because she finally was able to truly be herself and speak her truth without feeling judged.
I adore that Blake was so patient and supportive with Alexis and truly went at her own pace. His support and love for her was perfect and I love how they both stepped out of their comfort zones through the story because they wanted to show their love for the other.
Tropes / Reps:
Fake Dating
Chronic Illness Rep
No 3rd Act Break Up
Teammates sister
Found Family
“A girl so lovely and kind that I’m drawn to her like a moth to a flame.”
“Because Alexis Moore is the sun in my universe, and I only want to be in her orbit.”
Please check content warnings!
Thanks to the author for an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is a super cute short college hockey romance story between two people coming together after yearning for the other for so long! I enjoyed this, it’s an entertaining read with loveable characters and I really like how the author was able to incorporate serious themes into this love story, however the flow of the story could have been more fleshed out/ a bit smoother, some parts of the story felt underdeveloped.
Alexis has fibromyalgia, and we see in certain parts of the story how it affects her everyday living experience! Alexis is definitely a multilayered character and her past experiences is such a real reality for many people and her lived experiences and hesitancy with trusting again was so real and so valid! Her vulnerability and raw feelings with blake made my heart warm because she finally was able to truly be herself and speak her truth without feeling judged.
I adore that Blake was so patient and supportive with Alexis and truly went at her own pace. His support and love for her was perfect and I love how they both stepped out of their comfort zones through the story because they wanted to show their love for the other.
Tropes / Reps:
Fake Dating
Chronic Illness Rep
No 3rd Act Break Up
Teammates sister
Found Family
February 15, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book before it was released and I definitely ate it up!
Alexis is strong willed and stubborn, and refuses to let her siblings help pay for college after she loses her job again. Her siblings have the great idea to enter her into the schools contest for the cutest couple in order to win free tuition—the only catch is she doesn’t have a boyfriend. The solution? One of her brother’s teammates—Blake. We find out to two have been secretly crushing on each other for years and it quickly heats up.
Watching Alexis and Blake help each other through their own personal issues was really sweet, and I loved the autoimmune representation. I feel like it was done well and not performative, or ignorant to what people go through when dealing with autoimmune disorders.
My only issue with the book was I feel like it was a little rushed and there are a few odd details in there that could use a little more backstory! For one, it seems like the college is incredibly sketchy and does a lot of unethical things that people know about. I think if those topics were touched on a bit more, and that the characters had some more meaningful interactions, it would’ve made this even better.
Overall I think it was a great book and I look forward to seeing how the universe develops!
Alexis is strong willed and stubborn, and refuses to let her siblings help pay for college after she loses her job again. Her siblings have the great idea to enter her into the schools contest for the cutest couple in order to win free tuition—the only catch is she doesn’t have a boyfriend. The solution? One of her brother’s teammates—Blake. We find out to two have been secretly crushing on each other for years and it quickly heats up.
Watching Alexis and Blake help each other through their own personal issues was really sweet, and I loved the autoimmune representation. I feel like it was done well and not performative, or ignorant to what people go through when dealing with autoimmune disorders.
My only issue with the book was I feel like it was a little rushed and there are a few odd details in there that could use a little more backstory! For one, it seems like the college is incredibly sketchy and does a lot of unethical things that people know about. I think if those topics were touched on a bit more, and that the characters had some more meaningful interactions, it would’ve made this even better.
Overall I think it was a great book and I look forward to seeing how the universe develops!
February 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up bc I loved it so much
AHHHH! First of all, thank you so so much to Ellie Blackbourne for my very first (official) ARC! I’m so grateful that it was this gem!
Alexis and Blake have my hearts forever. This was an adorable (and also a little spicy❤️🔥) romance that I couldn’t put down. Fake dating is one of the best tropes out there, and I’ve been in my hockey era recently, so this was absolutely PERFECT.
The pacing of this book? Immaculate, which is tricky with romance (especially when you have a man like Blake who is just head over heels from day 1). My heart was fluttering with every word Blake was speaking. And having chronic illness FMC is absolutely beautiful, and it was also so well done.
This one comes out February 14th (perfect for the season 😉) and I HIGHLY recommend!
AHHHH! First of all, thank you so so much to Ellie Blackbourne for my very first (official) ARC! I’m so grateful that it was this gem!
Alexis and Blake have my hearts forever. This was an adorable (and also a little spicy❤️🔥) romance that I couldn’t put down. Fake dating is one of the best tropes out there, and I’ve been in my hockey era recently, so this was absolutely PERFECT.
The pacing of this book? Immaculate, which is tricky with romance (especially when you have a man like Blake who is just head over heels from day 1). My heart was fluttering with every word Blake was speaking. And having chronic illness FMC is absolutely beautiful, and it was also so well done.
This one comes out February 14th (perfect for the season 😉) and I HIGHLY recommend!
February 2, 2025
I adored Blake by the end of his first POV chapter. I loved the fact that he was like “yeah, I mostly deal in one night stands, but I’m going to respect her regardless.” His interactions with Hudson and Eric are such a fantastic reminder to women reading that they shouldn’t settle for less than someone who respects them. It’s impossible not to ship Blake and Alexis, their chemistry is so well written and leaps off the page. I also loved the vulnerability as Blake and Alexis opened up about their personal issues. Blackbourne did such an amazing job bringing this book full circle. She is definitely one of my top favorite romance authors!
February 8, 2025
I loved this so much but I feel like there were a handful of things just brushed over.
Things I loved:
- Blake & alexis’ growth as individuals and a couple
- a tall FMC w/a chronic illness, love the representation
- a golden retriever of a man who is okay with taking everything at her pace
- the sibling love. The found family of the hockey team.
- Levi & Lottie’s intro( hoping we get a book for them)
Things I want more of:
- Raf& Nico.
- what happened to Blake’s mom, why didn’t he ever call Maria?
- the announcement of the winners felt thrown together.
Things I loved:
- Blake & alexis’ growth as individuals and a couple
- a tall FMC w/a chronic illness, love the representation
- a golden retriever of a man who is okay with taking everything at her pace
- the sibling love. The found family of the hockey team.
- Levi & Lottie’s intro( hoping we get a book for them)
Things I want more of:
- Raf& Nico.
- what happened to Blake’s mom, why didn’t he ever call Maria?
- the announcement of the winners felt thrown together.
February 13, 2025
What do you get when you cross a hottie hockey player with a chronically ill cutie? An absolutely ᴀᴅᴏʀᴀʙʟᴇ romance with the most swoon-worthy moments! 💕
Alexis and Blake are both students at Brookside U and have known each other for years. Blake is a star hockey player and Alexis is the hockey captain’s sister, so there’s some history here that let this book really hit the ground running 🏃🏼♀️💕
When Alexis loses another job due to her chronic illness (fibromyalgia rep 💜), she finds herself in quite the financial pickle when it comes to paying her tuition.
The solution? The university is hosting a cute couples contest and the winner wins a free year of tuition. Only problem? Alexis currently doesn’t have a boyfriend.
To solve this problem, Alexis’ brother asks Blake to fake date his sister, help her win her tuition, and do NOT, under ANY circumstances, fall in love.
Well………… 👀
You’ll have to read the rest to find out!
This book is short, quick, and oh so cute! As a fellow chronic illness girlie, I related so much to Alexis’ struggles and was right there alongside her, laying in my bed and sipping my tea during a flare up. Blake was so sweet and the way he was obsessed with her from the start warmed my cold, dead heart. 🥹
Alexis and Blake are both students at Brookside U and have known each other for years. Blake is a star hockey player and Alexis is the hockey captain’s sister, so there’s some history here that let this book really hit the ground running 🏃🏼♀️💕
When Alexis loses another job due to her chronic illness (fibromyalgia rep 💜), she finds herself in quite the financial pickle when it comes to paying her tuition.
The solution? The university is hosting a cute couples contest and the winner wins a free year of tuition. Only problem? Alexis currently doesn’t have a boyfriend.
To solve this problem, Alexis’ brother asks Blake to fake date his sister, help her win her tuition, and do NOT, under ANY circumstances, fall in love.
Well………… 👀
You’ll have to read the rest to find out!
This book is short, quick, and oh so cute! As a fellow chronic illness girlie, I related so much to Alexis’ struggles and was right there alongside her, laying in my bed and sipping my tea during a flare up. Blake was so sweet and the way he was obsessed with her from the start warmed my cold, dead heart. 🥹
February 8, 2025
(3.75)
this was so cute! it was my first ever ARC and i’m so grateful i was given the chance to read it in advance. i absolutely devoured it in a couple short hours. it was sweet, slightly steamy, and left me wanting so much more of Blake and Alexis! there were some parts that felt a little stilted, but overall a lovely read with well developed characters and some great Fibromyalgia rep. The characters were believable and human and the plot was straightforward and easy to follow.
this was so cute! it was my first ever ARC and i’m so grateful i was given the chance to read it in advance. i absolutely devoured it in a couple short hours. it was sweet, slightly steamy, and left me wanting so much more of Blake and Alexis! there were some parts that felt a little stilted, but overall a lovely read with well developed characters and some great Fibromyalgia rep. The characters were believable and human and the plot was straightforward and easy to follow.
February 11, 2025
I am so grateful that i got accepted as an ARC reader for this book because it was heavenly. fake dating and hockey, exactly my book. please please read this book when it comes out. you won’t regret it at all. Ellie’s writing was heavenly, the plot was incredibly thought out and ugh i love blake and alexis. the nickname is ADORABLE
February 21, 2025
I’m grateful to be one of those who got an ARC for this book.
If I enjoyed reading a book, it’s an easy 5⭐️ for me.
I’ve annotated a lot of my favorite phrases 😮💨🤌🏼
I love how fast paced and such an easy read this book was. Made me giggle a lot of times. I can also see myself like Alexis— self sabotaging every time she feels that she’s not worthy of an affection / attention / care, but the way Blakey-bear reassures her every time is everythiiiiing! It is a bare minimum but not everyone can do it.
“I’m not a relationship kind of guy. But you, Alexis Moore, are my only only exception” 🥰
“You saw me when I thought I was invisible, saw everything I was trying to hide and loved me anyway. Why would I ever want anyone else when I have the perfect right in front of me?”
If I enjoyed reading a book, it’s an easy 5⭐️ for me.
I’ve annotated a lot of my favorite phrases 😮💨🤌🏼
I love how fast paced and such an easy read this book was. Made me giggle a lot of times. I can also see myself like Alexis— self sabotaging every time she feels that she’s not worthy of an affection / attention / care, but the way Blakey-bear reassures her every time is everythiiiiing! It is a bare minimum but not everyone can do it.
“I’m not a relationship kind of guy. But you, Alexis Moore, are my only only exception” 🥰
“You saw me when I thought I was invisible, saw everything I was trying to hide and loved me anyway. Why would I ever want anyone else when I have the perfect right in front of me?”
February 15, 2025
... I am convinced that I didn't read the same book as all of the other reviewers?
This book had the possibility of being good but that's about it. Unfortunately, the author tried to cram in WAY too many plot points and didn't flesh a single one out. What happened to the dog they found in the MMCs abandoned childhood mansion? Why does the MMC care so much about what his mom thinks? Are we going to talk literally at all about what happened to make the FMC so afraid of men but magically okay with the MMC in like .3 breaths? Who broke up the fight between the FMC and the stalker? How did the FMC get to the hospital? Why does the brother of the FMC seem so pissy all the time when you literally paired the FMC and MMC up? Like I said, too many plot points and not a single one fleshed out.
I feel like the potential for this one is sort of squandered by it being published too soon/no one telling the author to that she doesn't need to include every plot idea she ever had in one book.
Also, while I don't really care about trigger warnings, this book was definitely missing them. Proceed with caution, friends.
This book had the possibility of being good but that's about it. Unfortunately, the author tried to cram in WAY too many plot points and didn't flesh a single one out. What happened to the dog they found in the MMCs abandoned childhood mansion? Why does the MMC care so much about what his mom thinks? Are we going to talk literally at all about what happened to make the FMC so afraid of men but magically okay with the MMC in like .3 breaths? Who broke up the fight between the FMC and the stalker? How did the FMC get to the hospital? Why does the brother of the FMC seem so pissy all the time when you literally paired the FMC and MMC up? Like I said, too many plot points and not a single one fleshed out.
I feel like the potential for this one is sort of squandered by it being published too soon/no one telling the author to that she doesn't need to include every plot idea she ever had in one book.
Also, while I don't really care about trigger warnings, this book was definitely missing them. Proceed with caution, friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
I flew through this, it was a cute, easy and quick read. The premise was fun (if not a little unrealistic) and I thought Blake and Alexis made a cute couple.
For me, this one felt pretty surface-level - there were a lot of plot points/themes that could’ve been explored in more depth. Like Blake’s childhood - there were a lot of crumbs but they didn’t actually make up a full picture of what happens so it was kind of hard as the reader to understand what he went through? I also struggled with the pacing - a lot of this felt really disjointed and a bit random.
I understand that Alexis and Blake have known each other for years but their relationship felt really rushed and insta-lovey. The way he was talking about her was so dramatic and didn’t really make sense to me that early in their relationship?
I did really enjoy the writing, I’d be keen to read more by this author and I think the second book in this series was set up well! I also really liked the chronic illness rep!
Thank you so much to Ellie Blackbourne for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
For me, this one felt pretty surface-level - there were a lot of plot points/themes that could’ve been explored in more depth. Like Blake’s childhood - there were a lot of crumbs but they didn’t actually make up a full picture of what happens so it was kind of hard as the reader to understand what he went through? I also struggled with the pacing - a lot of this felt really disjointed and a bit random.
I understand that Alexis and Blake have known each other for years but their relationship felt really rushed and insta-lovey. The way he was talking about her was so dramatic and didn’t really make sense to me that early in their relationship?
I did really enjoy the writing, I’d be keen to read more by this author and I think the second book in this series was set up well! I also really liked the chronic illness rep!
Thank you so much to Ellie Blackbourne for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2025
When I seen the description and tropes for this book on social media I instantly knew I had to read it! My decision was not a mistake, this book was great to read!
I LOVE a fake dating trope throw in the fact the main characters have been lusting over each other in secret for a while and yes, you have my complete undivided attention!
Alexis and Blake were lovely characters, I absolutely adored them. The way the author gave us the character development throughout was beautiful. They both knew they needed to change things to be their best possible selves for themselves and each other. Their connection from their ‘first date’ was instant and his protectiveness of her kicked in straight away and man, the way he feels for her *swoons*
I won’t go into the story much because I don’t want to spoil it but the storyline is *chefs kiss*
This book comes with a few triggers so be sure to look them up before getting started.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and honestly, I can’t wait to read more. The writing flows easily, the characters were written well and I blew through this so quick it surprised me haha.
It’s a fun fake dating collage hockey romance. It’s beautiful and heartwarming and well worth a read!
I LOVE a fake dating trope throw in the fact the main characters have been lusting over each other in secret for a while and yes, you have my complete undivided attention!
Alexis and Blake were lovely characters, I absolutely adored them. The way the author gave us the character development throughout was beautiful. They both knew they needed to change things to be their best possible selves for themselves and each other. Their connection from their ‘first date’ was instant and his protectiveness of her kicked in straight away and man, the way he feels for her *swoons*
I won’t go into the story much because I don’t want to spoil it but the storyline is *chefs kiss*
This book comes with a few triggers so be sure to look them up before getting started.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and honestly, I can’t wait to read more. The writing flows easily, the characters were written well and I blew through this so quick it surprised me haha.
It’s a fun fake dating collage hockey romance. It’s beautiful and heartwarming and well worth a read!
February 4, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book from start to finish. It was the perfect combination of swoon worthy moments while covering some serious topics with keep-you-on-your-toes drama (check trigger warnings). And it was all wrapped up in a cute romcom bow 🎀. It was such a fun take on fake dating. I don’t think I’ve read one where both MCs had secret crushes on the other pre-arrangement — I feel like it’s usually one or the other but not both???
Blake was a little cheese ball at times but he was so down bad for his girl so it was acceptable 🧀🥲 and I loved Alexis and how she really came into her own throughout the book. I’m excited to see where this series goes because the side pieces (Moore siblings and hockey guys) were so fun.
Thank you, thank you Ellie for the ARC 🫶🏼
Go pick this up when it releases on Valentine’s Day! ♥️
+ college
+ hockey reformed playboy mmc
+ aspiring teacher fmc
+ fake dating
+ brother’s teammate
+ he falls hard
+ found family
2/5 🌶️
Fave quotes:
“Sounds like a fair deal. Let’s fall in love, Sunshine.”
“When I get my way with you, neither of us will want this to stop.”
“Still with me?”
Blake was a little cheese ball at times but he was so down bad for his girl so it was acceptable 🧀🥲 and I loved Alexis and how she really came into her own throughout the book. I’m excited to see where this series goes because the side pieces (Moore siblings and hockey guys) were so fun.
Thank you, thank you Ellie for the ARC 🫶🏼
Go pick this up when it releases on Valentine’s Day! ♥️
+ college
+ hockey reformed playboy mmc
+ aspiring teacher fmc
+ fake dating
+ brother’s teammate
+ he falls hard
+ found family
2/5 🌶️
Fave quotes:
“Sounds like a fair deal. Let’s fall in love, Sunshine.”
“When I get my way with you, neither of us will want this to stop.”
“Still with me?”
February 8, 2025
I am so happy to have received an ARC of this book just in time for it to count as my blue cover read for the Polarthon 2025 readathon. And I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it, enough to lose sleep reading it overnight.
This book wasn’t perfect. There were moments that I felt like the characters should have been better developed and where the writing could have used a little work. The end in some ways felt a little abrupt. But those things can all be a matter of personal preference, and I didn’t see any major issues that detracted from my general enjoyment of the book. The romance was adorable. I even made a note for myself about how I was kicking my feet and squealing in excitement because of the romance within the first 20%. I highlighted multiple lines that made my heart melt. I really loved how it tackled the topics of chronic pain and stalking. This had all of the vibes and feelings that I would want in a cute, quick college hockey romance.
I’ve given this 3.75 stars. It’s definitely a book that I would recommend to friends. I’m not sure if I would reread it, but I will absolutely continue the series whenever the next book comes out.
This book wasn’t perfect. There were moments that I felt like the characters should have been better developed and where the writing could have used a little work. The end in some ways felt a little abrupt. But those things can all be a matter of personal preference, and I didn’t see any major issues that detracted from my general enjoyment of the book. The romance was adorable. I even made a note for myself about how I was kicking my feet and squealing in excitement because of the romance within the first 20%. I highlighted multiple lines that made my heart melt. I really loved how it tackled the topics of chronic pain and stalking. This had all of the vibes and feelings that I would want in a cute, quick college hockey romance.
I’ve given this 3.75 stars. It’s definitely a book that I would recommend to friends. I’m not sure if I would reread it, but I will absolutely continue the series whenever the next book comes out.
February 2, 2025
What I was expecting: a fun hockey romance that made me giggle
What was delivered: an emotional roller coaster that had me on the absolute edge of my seat giggling, kicking my feet, screaming and crying.
I loved this book. I loved the characters. I loved the romance. The sibling bond was fantastic. Blakey bear was amazing. Alexis is incredibly relatable.
I want to commend the author on how she has handled the chronic illness, the stalking and the DV because it is not gratuitous in any way. My heart absolutely broke for Alexis in this book.
I wish we had more of Blake’s family, especially after he went home and found the house that way?!!
Hello answers please, is that normal?! I’m not a rich person but that seems suss to me hahah.
Thank you so much to Ellie Blackbourne for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. This is my honest opinion.
What was delivered: an emotional roller coaster that had me on the absolute edge of my seat giggling, kicking my feet, screaming and crying.
I loved this book. I loved the characters. I loved the romance. The sibling bond was fantastic. Blakey bear was amazing. Alexis is incredibly relatable.
I want to commend the author on how she has handled the chronic illness, the stalking and the DV because it is not gratuitous in any way. My heart absolutely broke for Alexis in this book.
I wish we had more of Blake’s family, especially after he went home and found the house that way?!!
Hello answers please, is that normal?! I’m not a rich person but that seems suss to me hahah.
Thank you so much to Ellie Blackbourne for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. This is my honest opinion.
February 3, 2025
First of all, I am so grateful to have been an ARC reader for this novel! 💛 Now onto the review…
Any book that includes trigger warnings is already top-tier for me from the get-go. Add the fact that this is a hockey romance and you’ve got me hooked like whatever the appropriate fish for this metaphor(?) would be (idk, I don’t go fishing).
Truly, genuinely, the tropes included in this book make me want to thank the universe for the author’s existence. Fake dating? Check. Forced proximity? Check. Found family? Check. Healthily obsessed MMC who’s protective and possessive in the hottest way? Check. Also, while I myself am short, it was so refreshing to see a TALL FMC — I genuinely could not tell you the last book I read where the woman in the relationship was taller than 5’5”. I also LOVED the chronic illness rep in this book, because it’s realistic, and handled so well, and a huge part of our FMC’s life — as it would be in real life.
If you’re looking for a hockey romance that’s not too hockey-heavy, medium-spicy, and has no third act breakup, you neeeeeeeed to snatch this book up.
Any book that includes trigger warnings is already top-tier for me from the get-go. Add the fact that this is a hockey romance and you’ve got me hooked like whatever the appropriate fish for this metaphor(?) would be (idk, I don’t go fishing).
Truly, genuinely, the tropes included in this book make me want to thank the universe for the author’s existence. Fake dating? Check. Forced proximity? Check. Found family? Check. Healthily obsessed MMC who’s protective and possessive in the hottest way? Check. Also, while I myself am short, it was so refreshing to see a TALL FMC — I genuinely could not tell you the last book I read where the woman in the relationship was taller than 5’5”. I also LOVED the chronic illness rep in this book, because it’s realistic, and handled so well, and a huge part of our FMC’s life — as it would be in real life.
If you’re looking for a hockey romance that’s not too hockey-heavy, medium-spicy, and has no third act breakup, you neeeeeeeed to snatch this book up.
February 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ When I started this book I didn’t have high hopes. There’s a lot happening in the first chapter. We get to meet Alexis, we get to know her main issue for the plot line and a solution is offered so quickly I almost got wiplash! However, I quickly started to love the story and Blake and Alexis have a very cute story!
The entire book was a really lovely story, I love how there’s attention on a terminal illness and how Blake handles it. I love how sweet he is with her and how patient. I also love how he’s head over heels for her.. this whole thing was just really cute and wholesome.
That being said, it didn’t give me the feels some other books do and that + the very chaotic beginning is why I rated it 3.5 ⭐️ I might pick up the next book in this series!
The entire book was a really lovely story, I love how there’s attention on a terminal illness and how Blake handles it. I love how sweet he is with her and how patient. I also love how he’s head over heels for her.. this whole thing was just really cute and wholesome.
That being said, it didn’t give me the feels some other books do and that + the very chaotic beginning is why I rated it 3.5 ⭐️ I might pick up the next book in this series!
January 31, 2026
~ Clearing my ARC Backlog ~
⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩
I was kindly provided with this book (censorship is BS and I hate it but here we are!)
Tropes for this one; fake dating, dirty talk, older brother’s teammate, chronic illness rep (fibromyalgia), college romance, animosity to lovers, hockey player MMC X nerdy FMC.
Smut was 2/5 on the spice scale and its a HEA.
Alexis is our FMC and she’s gotta unlearn her people pleasing rendencies and carve space for herself in this world and she did! She was a badass and I loved her.
Our MMC is Blake and the definition of “if he wanted to, he would” AND HE DID! He’s got issues, he’s got lots of soul searching to do but damn if he wouldn’t burn the world down for his girl. I’m obsessed!
⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩
I was kindly provided with this book (censorship is BS and I hate it but here we are!)
Tropes for this one; fake dating, dirty talk, older brother’s teammate, chronic illness rep (fibromyalgia), college romance, animosity to lovers, hockey player MMC X nerdy FMC.
Smut was 2/5 on the spice scale and its a HEA.
Alexis is our FMC and she’s gotta unlearn her people pleasing rendencies and carve space for herself in this world and she did! She was a badass and I loved her.
Our MMC is Blake and the definition of “if he wanted to, he would” AND HE DID! He’s got issues, he’s got lots of soul searching to do but damn if he wouldn’t burn the world down for his girl. I’m obsessed!
February 7, 2025
This book was so cute! The story started out as a classic fake dating romance and just turned into a cute love story. Blake falling first and hard was just the perfect trope. I loved the chronic illness rep in the book but it didn’t feel like it over took the story it was who made the character who she was. Through this book the side characters just added to the story which I loved. This was a cute hockey romance that I would definitely recommend.
I received a free copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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