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Rafferty Abrams has been having the time of his life since joining the Pittsburgh Titans, but a poorly thought out one-night stand is about to cause unwanted drama with potentially serious repercussions.

As a member of the Pittsburgh Titans, I’m afforded a certain level of leniency in my behavior. The perks of being a celebrity, I suppose. But a run-in with my “one-night stand turned borderline stalker” has me crossing all sorts of lines with a beautiful but unsuspecting grocery store employee. When I surprise the complete stranger with a giant kiss and quiet plea to help a guy out, she not only plays along but gets my blood racing like I’ve never experienced before. Score one for Rafferty Abrams.

Temperence Martin isn’t just the stunning girl in the international foods aisle. Tempe is also a devoted daughter taking a break from college to help her mother as she heals from a serious accident. That includes making sure her younger brother stays on track with school and keeping everything running at home. To say she’s burning the candle at both ends is an understatement, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t see the spark in her eyes after our spontaneous make out session. That’s exactly what has me coming back for more, even if I use that pesky stalker as my excuse.

As we get to know one another, I realize a fake relationship just isn’t going to work. I want something other than a ruse, something real, and lucky for me, so does Tempe. But when my mistake of a hookup starts telling lies in retaliation for my alleged betrayal, things get messy. For me and for Tempe, who has found herself embroiled in a love triangle that doesn’t even exist. I can only hope Tempe isn’t scared away by the baggage I unintentionally brought to our relationship because the truth is, I saw my happily ever after with her the first time our lips met.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 14, 2025

158 people are currently reading
668 people want to read

About the author

Sawyer Bennett

173 books14.4k followers
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
Profile Image for Denise Hoover.
784 reviews
January 1, 2025
A SB book is always one that gets me out of my book funk and Rafferty & Tempe’s story was no different. I could not put this book down!

Fake dating is always a favorite trope of mine, so when Rafferty impulsively starts fake dating Tempe to get Tansy off his back, I was hooked.

What starts out as a few dates here and there to try to convince Tansy, his one night stand gone wrong, that he’s not interested in her but dating Tempe, he has feelings grow he never thought possible. Their fake dating quickly becomes real dating. Rafferty is such a sweetheart. A protector. His love language is giving and helping. He’s happy to help Tempe & her family get back on their feet after her mom’s accident.

Always refreshing read, this next installment of the Pittsburgh Titan series leaves you feeling happy & lighthearted. A perfect book to end the year with.
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,436 reviews54 followers
January 6, 2025
Can it be that this is book no.15 and I'm still as invested as i was back when it all began?

Rafferty and Temperence were thrown together by chance. Their meet-cute was kinda hilarious and it predicted that we were in for a ride.

Their fake relationship starts off but soon they both see there is something there worth exploring. I loved how his teammates had both of their backs when it came to the problem that caused them to be together.

All in all this was almost drama free and i loved it from start to finish. Now we have one more book before we get to my most anticipated member of this team and that's Penn. But North will be the right person to tide me over u til summer when that book comes out. I can't wait till then.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms.
2,797 reviews343 followers
January 10, 2025
*I received a free copy of Rafferty. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*

I enjoyed learning more about Rafferty and his scary stalker, and I adored how he and Tempe met. I guess I'm a sucker for a fake relationship that turns into true love. That trope worked really well with this story, and I had fun reading about how they fell in love while thinking the other person still played a role.

There are some more serious subjects here as well, especially the stalker that Rafferty had, and how far that person went in order to get what they thought they 'deserved' to have.

Well written, nicely paced, and very romantic, Rafferty also had some really good hockey games I enjoyed 'watching' through my reading.
Profile Image for Amanda Koziczkowski.
1,213 reviews52 followers
December 30, 2024
I very much enjoyed Rafferty and Tempe's story. There was a lightness and entertaining energy I got from them. I love their vibes from the start and their natural chemistry. I enjoyed their fake dating storyline a lot, and I am normally not the biggest fan of that trope. Rafferty's whole predicament was entertaining despite how much it sucked at times. I love how Rafferty clearly pays attention to Tempe and her family in all the ways that matter. Their story was so good, and I listened to it in one sitting! Love the Titans world!
*I chose to listen to an early copy*
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,630 reviews420 followers
January 13, 2025
Review by Trinette Dungee

“Hearts can start off pretending, but they don’t always end that way.”

What started off as pretending for Rafferty Abrams and Tempe Martin definitely did not end that way.

Since being traded to the Pittsburgh Titans, Rafferty has adjusted quite well. He’s fitting in well with his teammates and being the young single guy that he is, he’s living his best life. Especially when it comes to the ladies, and one lady whom his teammates discouraged him from getting involved with is now having a hard time accepting their time together was just one night.

One night in a grocery store attempting to escape the unwanted attention he’s getting from what he thought was a one stand, and who also happens to be the cousin of the Titans’ owner, Rafferty makes an impulsive decision and kisses an employee after quickly pleading with her to just go along with him. If Tansy thinks he has a girlfriend, then maybe she’ll back off. Unfortunately for Rafferty, Tansy isn’t buying the act. There’s no way playboy Rafferty has suddenly decided to become a one-woman man; and he certainly wouldn’t choose a grocery store clerk. Rafferty has no choice but to go back to Tempe and convince her to be his fake girlfriend one more time, but one more time turns into way more.

Temperence “Tempe” Martin has deferred her last semester of college to go home and help her mom, who is unable to care for herself after an accident, and her younger brother. Going to work and being kissed by a handsome stranger was definitely not on her bingo card, but handsome stranger looks so desperate she can’t help to go along. When he comes back to her the next day and asks her to be his fake girlfriend for one day and offers to pay her a crazy amount of money she agrees, because well...her family has bills to pay. Soon Tempe finds herself in a longer commitment.

Fake relationships aren’t my favorite trope. Honestly, I don’t think they make into my top three. Every so often though, one comes along that gives me a little tingle, and that’s what this book did. It wasn’t so much the storyline, but the characters. I absolutely loved these two together. Their chemistry was instant. The progression of their relationship from strangers-fake relationship-friends-lovers was seamless. I honestly wasn’t expecting a lot from this book because I wasn’t so sure from past exposure of Rafferty that I was going to like him. I felt like he was going to be a little too cocky for me. Don’t get me wrong, the ego was there but it wasn’t overbearing. Tempe was an instant like for me. I mean, come on, the woman agreed to let a stranger in a grocery store lay one her. She had no idea who Rafferty was. When she realizes who he is and he offers to pay her to help him out, she could have completely taken advantage, but she didn’t. She was more of “just what I need to get us through a rough patch. They were just too cute.

One of my favorite scenes was the dinner they shared getting to know each other. I can’t put my finger on it, but there was something very genuine in the scene.

This was a fast-paced book and a quick read (as long as life wasn’t life’ing). Fake dating can be angsty at times, but this was very low on angst (I’m not a fan of angst). If I had to rate the spice level, I’d give it a two or three, which was perfect for this book. It’s a nice addition to this series. There are still a few more players to learn about in this series and the one that has my mind truly spinning is Penn. I can’t wait to read about him. Also, Rafferty’s sister shows up on his door announced and is sticking around…. wonder how she’s going to fit into any further books?

Profile Image for Linda Ketter.
722 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2025
Rafferty is book 15 in the Pittsburgh Titans series and follows Rafferty as he navigates a relationship with Tempe while avoiding a one night mistake with a member of management.

Rafferty was traded to the Titans over the summer in a massive deal for multiple players.Awhile back he had a one night stand with a woman who works in the marketing division for the Titans. She keeps hitting on him thinking they can do it again, but he is done with her. It was a mistake and he has moved on, but apparently she has not.

When she shows up at the store where he is grocery shopping, he turns to the woman stocking the aisle and kisses her. Then quietly begs her to just go with it.

Tempe is working at the grocery store to pay the bills. Her mother was injured in a car accident and is going through rehab with a broken leg and two broken wrists. She is unable to work, so Tempe dropped out of college to take care of her little brother, take care of her mother and pay the bills.

After the short interaction at the store with Rafferty's stalker, she knows the woman is obsessed with him and will not go away easily. So she plays the girlfriend for him until she is called to the front of the storre. But she never expects to see him again after that interlude.

So what a surprise when he searches her out to play his girlfriend for a Titans event. Since she considers it a job, she charges him for it (go Tempe). But when the stalker does not believe their story, they have to continue to play a couple.

Needless to say, Rafferty's friends get involved in their story, as well as her family. So much so that her brother and his friend get to go to hockey games with tickets from Raff. And Tempe ends up having Raff and the guys over one evening for dinner. The Titans end up installing the railings her mother needs to help with her recovery one day.

But when a threat to Rafferty's career is made, he and Tempe decide it is time to cut the head off of the stalker dragon. He has been hesitant because of who she is, but she has gone too far. After talking with Callum and Brienne, he is shocked at how businesslike she is about the matter. She does what is right.

Personally, I have so much respect for Brienne. She does not care who you are. If you mess with her business, you are out. Do not bit the hand that feeds you.

I am hoping that Raff and Tempe are able to survive a long distance relationship when she goes back to college. She only has one year left so here is hoping they can survive the odds.

It has been too long since I have listened to Aaron Shedlock. I can't even remember the last book he narrated that I listened to. I love his smooth voice and it plays well off of Mackenzie Cartwright's voice. And again it has been too long since I have listened to her. I forgot her strong backbone voice and then her vulnerable voice. These two played well together and played these two characters beautifully.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,185 reviews22 followers
January 1, 2025
Fantastic Story & Narration🎧Wonderfully Entertaining!

Rafferty
Pittsburgh Titans, Book 15
By: Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by: Mackenzie Cartwright, Aaron Shedlock

Sawyer Bennett pens another fabulous sports romance novel set in her Pittsburgh Titans series, the hockey team owned by Brienne Norcross, that came back after a tragedy and continues to thrive. This fifteenth book is a great addition to the series, with Bennett putting her own unique spin on the fake relationship trope and I absolutely loved it. Rafferty, a third line player, had a one-night-stand with a Titans’ employee, and despite not looking for more with her, she does not give up or take no for an answer. When he sees her in the grocery store, he thinks quick on his feet and grabs an employee and asks her to go along with him. Tempe did not know who he was or what was going on but she too thinks quick on her feet and went along with him, pretended to not only know him but that she was his girlfriend. Not exactly convincing, but convincing enough to get her out of his hair at the moment. Tempe is home from college to help her mom, who is recovering from injuries after an accident and is out of work. Tempe is doing the best she can, but it is still not enough to cover all the bills, so when Rafferty asks her to keep up the rue and attend team events with him, she agrees with one stipulation. These two were perfect together and for each other and it was great to watch them get to know each other and see their fake relationship morph into something so much more. I loved all the layers of this story and how it all played out, with a perfect balance of drama, charming and heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions and wonderful romance. I also loved seeing the camaraderie amongst the team and how supportive they were, Brienne included. Sawyer Bennett, thank you for another wonderfully entertaining story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧  Mackenzie Cartwright and Aaron Shedlock were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life, and I loved how they took each role and owned it, sounding believable and just as I imagined they would sound. These two nailed it in the two lead roles, grasping every aspect of their character’s personality and demeanor and they were just as amazing in the roles of the side characters, too. Setting the right tone for the story, they captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. They made a wonderful narration team, with voices and talent that complemented each other and a performance that elevated the already amazing story to another level. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,078 reviews201 followers
January 8, 2025
4.5stars--RAFFERTY is the fifteenth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult PITTSBURGH TITANS erotic, hockey romance series focusing on the Pittsburgh Titans professional hockey team. This is Rafferty Abrams, and Temperence ‘Tempe’ Martin’s story line. RAFFERTY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but Rafferty’s story has been building throughout.

SOME BACKGROUND: A couple of years earlier, a devastating plane crashed claimed all but three members of the Pittsburgh Titans hockey team including owners, coaches and staff. Rebuilding the team, owner Brienne Norcross, offered positions to one-time professional and semi-pro players. These are their stories.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rafferty and Tempe) RAFFERTY follows the building but originally fake relationship between our story line couple. Several weeks earlier, Rafferty had a one-night stand who now refuses to take no for an answer. Hoping to dissuade said stalker, Rafferty surprises a stranger at the local grocery store, and offers up a fake relationship until the stalker relents. Enter Temperence ‘Tempe’ Martin, the woman with whom Rafferty will fall in love. As Rafferty and Tempe’s relationship quickly turns into something more, threats from Rafferty’s stalker become all too real, taking aim at his career, his livelihood and the team for which he plays.

The world building focuses on the building relationship between our story line couple, and Rafferty’s struggle to shake a woman who refuses to back down. From the outset, Rafferty’s predicament could have been stopped but our heroine refuses to cross the line until it is too late.

The relationship between Rafferty and Tempe begins as a fake relationship in which Tempe is willing to play along. With several of his teammates aware of the stalker, and of his relationship with Tempe, Rafferty begins to fall for the woman that calls to his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Rafferty’s teammates, head office and team owners. We are introduced to Tempe’s brother Cooper, their mother Natalie, as well as Rafferty’s sister Farren.

RAFFERTY is a story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, power and control, love and acceptance. The premise is dramatic, entertaining and captivating; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are desperate and determined.

copy supplied for review
Profile Image for Dali.
2,070 reviews590 followers
January 8, 2025
📚 Read if you like: fake dating, sports romance, protective heroes, and heartfelt family dynamics.



What happens when a one-night stand turns into a borderline stalker situation? For Rafferty Abrams, a third-line hockey player for the Pittsburgh Titans, the answer is an impulsive kiss with a grocery store employee to escape the chaos—and that’s just the beginning. This story was perfectly written and was just the right amount of everything you are looking for in a sports romance.

👨‍👧 Rafferty and Tempe are a perfect pairing of opposites. Rafferty is the charming hockey player who never expected his fake relationship to feel so real. Tempe is a strong and selfless heroine juggling work, family responsibilities, and her own dreams after pausing college to care for her recovering mother. Together, they form a bond that’s sweet, authentic, and full of heart.

💞 The romance builds beautifully from playful and tentative to deeply emotional. From their first kiss (a literal scene-stealer!) to the undeniable connection that grows between them, you can’t help but root for Rafferty and Tempe. Their chemistry is electric, but what truly shines is how they bring out the best in each other while tackling obstacles both personal and external.

👧 The side characters bring depth and charm to the story. Tempe’s family adds heartfelt stakes to her journey, while the Titans team offers camaraderie and comic relief. Brienne Norcross once again proves herself a boss worth cheering for, balancing grit with compassion.

✍️ Sawyer Bennett delivers an emotional yet fun romance with her signature balance of drama, spice, and swoon-worthy moments. The audiobook narration by Mackenzie Cartwright and Aaron Shedlock adds another layer of magic—each voice perfectly suited to the characters, making every emotion hit just right.

🌟 Rafferty is a standout addition to the Pittsburgh Titans series, blending fake-dating antics, hockey heat, and a tender love story. It’s a must-read for fans of sports romance and anyone who loves a good happily-ever-after.

📲 QOTD: If you could spend a day with any professional athlete, who would it be and why?👇

#BookReview #SportsRomance #FakeDating #SawyerBennett #PittsburghTitans #HockeyRomance #ContemporaryRomance #RomanceReader #Bookstagram #RomanceBooks #InstaBooks
Profile Image for Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads).
2,312 reviews100 followers
January 20, 2025
5 Getting More than Food at the Grocery Store Stars!!

I’m a huge fan of the Titans series and with these newest books we’re getting to know the younger/newer players on this rebuilt team. This book is Rafferty’s story and what started as a way to keep an unwanted female in his orbit, he ends up finding a woman that is everything he didn’t know he needed!

Tempe is innocently restocking the shelves at said grocery store when she’s asked to kiss this large good looking man and before she knows it, she’s experiencing the best kiss of her life! Little did she know that with that one kiss her whole life was about to change and in the best way possible.

I have so much admiration for Tempe. She’s a woman that is doing everything she can to keep her family afloat since her Mom was injured in an accident and her little brother isn’t old enough to help their mom, it all falls on Tempe’s shoulders. When Rafferty comes to Tempe with a suggestion of playing his fake girlfriend to get the woman he had a one-night stand with, who, oh by the way, works for the Titans, to leave him alone, she negotiates for what she needs to really help her family out. I loved the fact that Rafferty didn’t blink an eye either!

There’s an obvious attraction between them and as they spend more time together they explore their feelings and it gets a little steamy! Rafferty though knows that Tempe needs to move slowly and he’s okay with that because that means they get to spend more time together. I loved how their friendship built and it soon became so much more than a fake relationship. While it may seem like they’re moving fast, it totally works for them. I especially loved how they presented a united front to Rafferty’s pseudo-stalker. Once they’ve crossed the proverbial line, in Tempe’s mind the money is no longer on the table; but Rafferty has other ideas. Let’s just say, I fell more in love with him!

While I read all of Ms. Bennett’s books, I also listen to them as well. Both Aaron Shedlock and Mackenzie Cartwright do a marvelous job in bringing everyone to life. The right narrators can take a great book to the next level and this is exactly what happened with this book. The more I listened the more I loved the story.

There’s so much to love about this book. Friendship, love, found family, soul deep connections and realizing that you can have it all, even with a few obstacles thrown in along the way. While this book is part of one of my favorite series, it can be read as a standalone. Although I think once you read it, you’ll want to read all the books that came before this one!
Profile Image for Ria Alexander.
2,581 reviews50 followers
January 14, 2025
A sweet, sizzling romance

Sawyer Bennett has delivered another entertaining read with the fifteenth installment in the Pittsburgh Titans series. RAFFERTY is a fake relationship, obsessive stalker, protective hero, hockey romance which had sizzling chemistry, humourous and tender moments, a family found, and a couple of twists. I absolutely loved this story, devouring it in one session, and the audio was exceptional.

Rafferty Abrams is a new player with the Titans, and he has a problem... a previous one-night stand who doesn't understand the meaning of the words "not interested". A trip to the local grocery story leads to the sweetest and sexiest meet cute with Temperance "Tempe" Martin. A stolen kiss, to deter a woman who is stalking him, with Tempe and her going along with it, leads to more than they both expected. I adored them together, they way they care about others, the fun they had, and how they distracted each other from issues in their lives. I loved the connection that formed quickly, their sizzling chemistry, the friendship which developed, and the way Rafferty was with Tempe's family. Even when trouble finds Rafferty, I loved that Tempe had his back ad was willing to help him.

**Audio**

Mackenzie Cartwright and Aaron Shedlock did such a wonderful job with their portrayals of Tempe and Rafferty. They ensured that listening was a real pleasure. Mackenzie relayed Tempe's strength and her softness, while Aaron showed Rafferty's romantic side, his voice was divine.

RAFFERTY has become one of my favourite books in this series. The plot was believable, the characters were realistic, and the emotions were perfectly portrayed. Catching up with the Titans teammates and their partners was so much fun, I loved that they automatically brought Tempe asnd her family into their family and stood by Rafferty when things started to go awry. Once again, Sawyer Bennett has delivered a story which was entertaining and unputdownable.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,457 reviews52 followers
January 25, 2025
I recently read Rafferty, the fifteenth installment in Sawyer Bennett's Pittsburgh Titans series, and it was a delightful experience that kept me engaged from start to finish. This book expertly blends the fake-dating trope with the excitement of hockey and a tender love story, making it a standout addition to the series.

The story revolves around Rafferty Abrams, a new player on the Titans, who finds himself in a tricky situation after a one-night stand leads to an unwanted pursuit from a persistent admirer. When he impulsively kisses Tempe Martin, a grocery store employee, to deflect attention, they enter into a fake relationship that quickly evolves into something deeper. I loved how this premise set the stage for both humor and heartfelt moments as they navigated their growing feelings while dealing with external pressures.

Bennett does an excellent job of developing both Rafferty and Tempe. Rafferty is not just your typical hockey player; he’s protective, loyal, and surprisingly tender beneath his rugged exterior. Tempe is equally engaging—her sass and quick wit make her a refreshing heroine. Their chemistry is electric, and I enjoyed watching their relationship transition from a mere facade to genuine affection. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, enhancing the sense of community within the Titans team.

J.H. Croix’s writing is engaging and flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story. The balance between steamy romance and light-hearted banter kept me entertained throughout. The pacing was just right, allowing for character development while maintaining enough tension to keep me turning pages.

Overall, Rafferty is a charming and satisfying read that captures the essence of romance within the world of sports. Sawyer Bennett has crafted a story filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and relatable characters. I’m giving this book a solid 4-star rating for its engaging plot and well-rounded characters. If you enjoy sports romances with protective heroes and strong heroines, this book is definitely worth picking up!
Profile Image for Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads.
2,196 reviews20 followers
December 25, 2024
**Audiobook Review**

With each book, my love for this series grows even more. “Rafferty” is a heartfelt, fun, and has a little bit of drama hockey romance that was such a great addition to the series.

Rafferty is one of the newest members of the Titans after being traded during the summer and there has been some drama with it. A woman who he hooked up with one time and made no promises of anything in the future, will not take the hint that he doesn’t want more. She’s even gone as far as showing up where he’s at. The worst part is she’s the team owner’s cousin. He is desperate when she corners him in a grocery story and turns to a stranger for help. Temperance Martin is home from college to take care of her mother after a horrible car accident and plays along. The two agree to keep up with their fake relationship so the other woman gets the hint but as they spend time together, they discover that there is potential for something real.

The other woman drama was a fun addition to the storyline and there is absolutely no cheating. Rafferty was very clear that it was a one time thing but she could not let it go. Rafferty is genuine, fun and is a great teammate. I loved his passion for the game and his passion for Tempe when they started exploring the real side of things. He cares with his whole heart and is amazing with her mom and brother. Tempe is amazing and stepped up when she was needed the most. She put her college degree on hold to care for her family. I loved how these two met and how she was on board to play along. The chemistry was instant and grew stronger as their feelings developed. The romance between them was so sweet and I loved them as a couple so much.

Mackenzie Cartwright and Aaron Shedlock narrated this audio and I loved listening to them bring this story to life. Mackenzie’s narration was fun and caring like Tempe. Aaron was great as Rafferty. His narration was passionate, fun, and he was the perfect choice to narrate Rafferty.
Profile Image for Fiona.
603 reviews18 followers
December 25, 2024
Sawyer Bennett delivers yet another captivating romance with Rafferty, blending sizzling chemistry, heartfelt emotions, and just the right dose of suspense. This story begins with an impulsive kiss between Rafferty, a sinfully sexy hockey player with a dirty mouth, and Tempe, a sassy and down-to-earth grocery store clerk. The fake relationship they agree upon to ward off Rafferty's persistent stalker quickly evolves into a swoon-worthy romance that feels as natural as it is inevitable.
Rafferty is not just your typical alpha hero. Beneath his rugged exterior lies a man who is fiercely protective, deeply loyal, and unexpectedly tender. His banter with Tempe is electric, but it is his moments of vulnerability and genuine care for her and her family that make him unforgettable. Tempe, on the other hand, is a delightfully refreshing heroine. Her sass and quick wit allow her to hold her own with Rafferty’s rowdy hockey buddies and their partners, but it is her inner strength and unwavering support for Rafferty that truly shine.
The progression from a fake relationship to a real one is as entertaining as it is heartfelt. Watching Rafferty and Tempe navigate their growing feelings while dealing with the escalating threats of the stalker keeps the tension high and the pages turning. Bennett masterfully balances the humor and heat of their romance with the darker elements of the plot, ensuring readers are hooked from start to finish.
If you are a fan of sports romances with protective heroes, strong heroines, and a touch of suspense, Rafferty is a must-read. Sawyer Bennett has crafted a story that’s equal parts steamy, sweet, and utterly satisfying. This book will leave you cheering for love and rooting for happily-ever-afters. Five stars all the way! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Kim.
1,063 reviews32 followers
January 15, 2025
The Pittsburgh Titans are in their way to a winning hockey season and the third line is HOT, HOT, HOT !! This installment of the Titans gives you the inside into Rafferty Abram’s a defenseman that some would say he is the most reserve, quite, teddy bear until he ISN’T .. on and off the ice !! He is being provoked off the ice by a one night stand that won’t take NO for an answer. So this makes Rafferty take his live life to a whole new level, that he isn’t even sure how to handle it ??

Temperance Martin is just trying to get by and help out her family until her Mom heals from her accident, so when Rafferty inverts himself in her life .. she has no idea if this is real life !! She knows the Titans as her little brother is a HUGE fan but when Rafferty kisses her in the middle of her job, in the middle of the supermarket to make his one night stand believe he has moved on …. She isn’t sure what to do ??

Tempe is a college senior with big aspirations to graduate with the degree she has dreamed of her whole life, so when Rafferty throws her off her path she is unsure what to do because we ALL know when you know you know .. FAKE OR NOT !!

Even though these two are virtual strangers that first kiss with sparks and fireworks hits them both between the eyes !! But sometimes being a celebrity has its pros and cons and we aren’t sure Tempe or Rafferty can handle what Tansy throws their way !!

This installment of the Titans was off the charts FABULOUS !! These two are so caring and loving and so family oriented your will fall more in love with them then they are with each other !!
Profile Image for Anita Byars.
1,396 reviews13 followers
January 14, 2025
Another riveting installment in the Pittsburgh Titans series! Rafferty’s fake relationship, obsessive stalker, protective hero, hockey romance. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with both hilarious, heartwarming and tender moments and there were a couple of unexpected twists. The chemistry between the characters was electric, and I couldn’t put this book down until the very end. I absolutely adored it!

This is Rafferty Abrams and Temperence “Tempe” Martin’s journey and it was so Hot!!!

Rafferty Abrams, a new player with the Titans, finds himself in a predicament. A previous one-night stand, doesn’t seem to comprehend that he’s not interested. Seeking a way to escape, he impulsively steals a kiss from Tempe, a down to earth grocery store clerk at a local grocery store. To his surprise, Tempe agrees to play along, to deter a woman who’s been stalking him. This unexpected meet-cute is the sexiest and sweetest encounter ever! The fake relationship they agree upon to ward off his stalker quickly evolves into a swoon-worthy romance that is as heartfelt as it is entertaining. I absolutely adored these two together, as their connection leads to a journey of unexpected, friendships, passion, romance, love, and so many fun and wonderful moments.

I’m a huge fan of fake dating, and this one was absolutely amazing! It was so steamy, romantic, and filled with all the feels that had me rooting for their happily-ever-after. Worth all the stars!!!

I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Cami.
1,645 reviews76 followers
September 24, 2025
4.5 Stars!!

Rafferty Abrams is a player for the Pittsburgh Titans and has a one night stand with a member of the Titan’s staff. He wasn’t aware of her connection with the owner Brienne Norcross but quickly made it clear to the woman that he was not interested in any further contact with her unless it has to do with team business. Unfortunately, the woman cannot take a hint & has resorted to stalking him. While he is at the grocery store, he sees her lurking in the aisles and causes him to cross all sorts of lines with a beautiful but unsuspecting grocery store employee. He surprises the complete stranger with a giant kiss and quiet plea to help a guy out, she not only plays along but intrigues his interest in her.

Temperence Martin or aka Tempe is taking a break from college to help her mother heal from a serious accident and to keep her younger brother on track with his schooling. To further help out she is working at a grocery store to try & bring in some additional money to help out with all the regular bills & medical bills. Her plate is full & running over but she also feels compelled to help the handsome stranger with his pesky stalker besides she could use the additional money.

This fake relationship was a good one because both characters are really likable. I will have to say that Rafferty’s stalker was a seriously unhinged woman, which made this an extremely interesting storyline. I really enjoy the Pittsburgh Titans world and am looking forward to the next installment and assuming it might have Rafferty’s sister Farren as a main character.
Profile Image for kgagnon.
2,322 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2024
I really devoured this story of a fake relationship with very real feelings! I loved the meet cute between Rafferty and Tempe that really had me, as I was wondering how this was going to play out. I just loved how it set the stage for Rafferty and Tempe's exciting, heartfelt, and sizzling romance. Rafferty let things get out of hand after having a one night stand with someone he didn't want to see again, but who was unfortunately part of the Titan organization. He acted impulsively when he kissed Tempe, hoping she would play along to deter the woman who was stalking him. Lucky for him, Tempe was a trooper, and acted as his new girlfriend. Rafferty needed Tempe to continue the charade for some Titan events, and when she agreed, Rafferty felt lucky in more ways than that. Tempe is taking time away from college to help her family after her mother was injured. Rafferty is a fun distraction for her, but she was soon falling for the kind, thoughtful and charming hockey player. I loved how perfect these opposites were together and how their relationship grew. They were both so selfless, loyal, and caring, and their chemistry was explosive! I also love catching up with teammates who are more like family, and Brienne Norcross made me fall for her even more.
Both Aaron Shedlock and Mackenzie Cartwright added so much depth to these characters as they narrate this breathtaking romance, and brought it to life so clearly. The way they developed Rafferty and Tempe's compelling relationship, making me feel all the tension, concern, passion and love they felt was brilliant. I was completely captivated by their performance.
Rafferty and Tempe's story is funny, sweet, heartfelt, passionate, and all consuming, and I absolutely loved it!
330 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2024
I don’t know how every book in this series gets better and better!

Rafferty is a newer member of the Titans. He made a mistake of sleeping with a co-worker, who he later learned was Brienne Norcross’s cousin, who now won’t leave Rafferty alone, but is also stalking him. Rafferty has an adorable meet cute with Tempe in order to avoid the stalker, but she is not convinced that the relationship Rafferty and Tempe claim in happening, so these two strangers make a deal to continue their pretend relationship.

As Rafferty gets to know Tempe he finds out she is on a break from college to help her mom recover from a terrible car accident and take care of her 13 year old brother.

To make the story of their relationship believable Rafferty enlists the help of his line mates and hilarity ensues! I live the rapport all the players and their significant others have with each other!

Quickly the fake relationship starts to become real and these two realize their chance meeting has developed into a very special connection. But Rafferty still has a stalker and Tempe is supposed to return to school.

I cannot wait for the next book in the series! And to continue to keep up with all the Titans and their families!

I had the pleasure of listening to this story on audiobook. I love both narrators, Mackenzie Cartwright and Aaron Shedlock. They did an amazing job of bribing Rafferty and Tempe to life!
Profile Image for Tanya Rae ~ TaSTy WordGasms.
2,494 reviews
January 3, 2025
Audio/eBook Review: 4.5 Stars
Rafferty is the 15th book in the Pittsburgh Titans series. This time it is Rafferty Abrams (third line) and Temperence “Tempe” Martin’s story. This is Rafferty’s first season with the Titans.

They meet when Rafferty is trying to avoid a woman. He grabs Tempe and kisses her and then asks for her to just go with it and she does! What a wonderful and exciting way to meet!
I loved listening to Rafferty via audio book! It is great to be read to and their (Aaron Shedlock and Mackenzie Cartwright) narration brings the book to life. I would listen to these 2 narrators again!

It looks like there are going to be a few more books in this series. Because there are a number of new players. Next up is North and Farren (Rafferty’s sister)


Audio Narrators are Aaron Shedlock and Mackenzie Cartwright.


Pittsburgh Titans Series
#1 Baden Oulett & Sophie Winters
#2 Stone Dumelin & Harlow Alston
#3 Gage Heyward & Jenna Holland -
#4 Coen Highsmith & Tillie Marshall
#5 Drake McGinn & Brienne Norcross
#6 Cannon West & Ava Cavanaugh
#7 Hendrix Bateman & Stevie Kisner
#8 Camden Poe & Danica Brandt
#9 Bain Hillridge & Keira McGinn
#10 Van 2 - Van Turner & Simone Fournier
#11 Boone Rivers & Lilly Hoffman
#12 Callum Derringer & Juniper Ryan
#13 Foster McInnis and Mazzy “Mary Elizabeth” Archer
#14 King Jack “King” Kingston and Willa Montreaux
#15 Rafferty Abrams and Temperence “Tempe” Martin
#16 North & Farren’s story is next
Profile Image for Monique.
1,254 reviews56 followers
January 5, 2025
You would think being book fifteen that the stories might be getting mundane and repetitive, but that’s not the case with this series at all. Team members retire and new ones come take their place which means more HEA’s for us to read. This time it’s Rafferty and Tempe’s tale with a unique meet cute. I really loved meeting them as well as hearing about the previous couples and what they have been up to. The Titians are one big happy family that I love reading about.

Rafferty is a bit of a ladies man which has put him in hot water with a woman he had a one night stand with. He’s tried to be polite and show he’s not interested but she’s not taking the hint and is now boarding on being a stalker. Even when he and Tempe go from fake dating at first to deter her and then real dating, she still doesn’t get it’s over between her and Rafferty. Luckily Tempe is loyal and smart to help Rafferty navigate through this difficult time which only brings them closer together and strengthens their bond. He also has the backing of his team mates and management.

This book is a quick fun read with a bit of spice. I also followed along with the audio, both narrators did a brilliant job with these characters and they were very easy to listen to. Although my wish is for the duet style instead of dual, I still loved these narrators a lot. Great addition to the series and one I recommend.
Profile Image for Patty.
4,990 reviews51 followers
January 7, 2025
Rafferty
Pittsburgh Titans, Book 15
By: Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by: Mackenzie Cartwright, Aaron Shedlock

Romantic. That is what this book is! A lot of the players on the Pittsburgh Titans crazy fans, but Rafferty has one that is obsessed. Being the cousin of the owner of the team, she is trying to manipulate him into a relationship. When he sees her at the grocery store, he grabs the closest woman and kisses her. Little did he know just what he started. Tempe has taken a leave of absence to take care of her family. Her mother's accident has set the family back and Tempe has taken on the responsibility of the finances. When Rafferty offers her a deal to be his fake girlfriend, she took it, knowing life would be a little easier with the extra funds. But now to make it look real. As time spent together leads to feelings, the one night stand continues her own path. Where does it all lead? I love Rafferty. He is a good man, knows himself and goes after what he wants. Tempe is a good girl, loyal to a fault and has a huge heart. And the teasers for Penn!!! I cannot wait to hear his story. Bennett likes to tease and she has me hooked. Bring on the next book!

Aaron Shedlock and Mackenzie Cartwright, what a narration team! Shedlock is a favorite and he know exactly how to get into my heart. He plays the romantic Rafferty perfectly and I fell hard and fast. Cartwright is Tempe, strong, devoted and loving. Listening to the team was pure joy for me, and I loved it!
Profile Image for Cheri.
2,215 reviews29 followers
January 17, 2025
4.5 stars

This is a super quick read that still packs a punch. Because it’s not very long, Rafferty and Tempe fall hard and fast. It starts with a dubious meet-cute, turns into a fake relationship scenario, and morphs into the real deal over a couple of weeks. Yet I felt the connection and was fully invested in these two finding their HEA.

The chemistry between Tempe and Rafferty is palpable from the moment they meet in the grocery store and he basically accosts her. Rafferty’s gamble pays off with Tempe, but his obsessed one-night stand doesn’t fall for their act and Rafferty goes back to the store to ask the unassuming grocery clerk to be his fake girlfriend for a few events. I love Tempe and her willingness to have an open mind about things. She loves her family deeply but seems to do the favor for Rafferty for more than the money that will help them out. Tempe seems to thrive when she’s helping people.

As I said, this is a quick read. Part of that is because Tempe is very even-tempered, even when faced with some interesting scenarios. She thinks before she reacts and trusts Rafferty to be the man she knows he is. He’s never trying to dictate her life, he’s always trying to enhance things for her and clear her path. He also understands she doesn’t take help lightly so he is careful of her independence.

I love this couple and look forward to seeing their story continue to play out in the background of future books in this series.
Profile Image for Kahea.
2,245 reviews122 followers
January 7, 2025
***5 Stars***

I devoured this baby!

Not that it is/was a surprise, I tend to be unable to put down books by this author, but when I’m hooked, I’m hooked.

As for Rafferty and Tempe, I adored them. Tempe was a lot of fun to get to know. She’s sassy, snarky and can definitely hold her own in any situation. Rafferty is a really good guy, who, unfortunately, picked the wrong one night stand. Their whole fake relationship turned real was highly enjoyable to experience. They had great chemistry from the start and though things did happen quickly between them, I really liked how they actually talked things out with each other and found that they had found their person.

This is a great addition to the series. The whole issue with Tansy did keep me turning the pages to see how far she’d go and while I didn’t always agree with how Rafferty was dealing with her, I did understand the why behind it. As for the Titan’s themselves. I loved getting glimpses of everyone and seeing how they are doing when it came to their relationships on and off the ice. And while I’m still all about Penn, I am totally looking forward to North’s book after getting to know him a little more in this story and am definitely curious as to who his HEA will be with….

~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Profile Image for Heather.
1,546 reviews26 followers
January 7, 2025
I have enjoyed everything about the Pittsburgh Titans series since it began, and Rafferty is an awesome addition to the collection!

Rafferty Abrams, who plays professional hockey for the Pittsburgh Titans, meets Tempe Martin in one of the best meet-cutes I've seen in some time...in the grocery aisle! Rafferty is trying to avoid a woman he spent one night with who doesn't want to take no for an answer and so in order to throw her off, he kisses Tempe, who is working at the grocery store at the time, and he proclaims Tempe is his girlfriend!

Knowing that he isn't going to get rid of his one night stand easily, he enlists Tempe to be his fake girlfriend. With Tempe home from college to help out after her Mom's horrible car accident, she's happy to play the part. Will the relationship remain fake or will real feelings blossom between Rafferty and Tempe?

There was something about this one that had be captivated from the beginning. I liked both Rafferty and Tempe and the addition of their family members, on both sides, enriched the story as well. I also loved the support that Rafferty received from his teammates and their significant others throughout the book. This is definitely one of my favorites in this series!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
2,249 reviews18 followers
January 11, 2025
Rafferty brings us back to the world of the Pittsburgh Titans in their 2nd year post tragedy. This is a tight knit group that has opened their arms to the newer team members and continues to impress with the family like atmosphere.

Raff is one of those newer players and he finds himself in a tight spot when he stumbles on the perfect girl for him (all while escaping the WRONG one). Tempe is a college student home to care for her mother as she recovers from a horrible accident.

While Raff and Tempe have one of the more unique meet cutes in the series, I truly enjoyed them together. They had a fantastic dynamic from the get go and seemed to gel with each other. It made me root for them and wonder just what direction their conflict would come from. I appreciated that the conflict was external and gave them the opportunity to see how each responded under pressure vs pitting them against each other.

As book 15 in the series, it’s safe to say the secondary cast could get out of control. Ms Bennet handled that well by focusing on the players that interact with Raff the most (as well as key team staff). There are some favorites that we get to visit as well as getting to know future main characters a bit better. We also get to meet Rafferty’s sister when she appears in Pittsburgh unexpectedly. Something tells me she will be a feature player in the near future and I can’t wait!
Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,553 reviews25 followers
January 8, 2025
Rafferty (Pittsburgh Titans #15) by Sawyer Bennett. Rafferty has his hands full with Tansy. She just refuses to believe he doesn't want to date her. While grocery shopping, he spots Tansy coming towards him. Once again, trying to deter her, Rafferty kisses the girl working in the grocery store. Tempe is working her shift when a good-looking guy asks her to play like he is her boyfriend. What started out as a ruse to get Tansy off his back, eventually turns into a real relationship, Rafferty nor Tempe expected.
This story was so good. I was a little leery about Tansy and her tomfoolery and shenanigans. Regardless, the progression of Rafferty and Tempe's relationship was everything. A real sweet love story that had me hooked from the very beginning. Even though Rafferty initially was a player and had no intentions of settling down, that's what ended up happening. There was so much to Rafferty. He made for a fabulous fake boyfriend and an even better real one. Tempe was giving up so much for her family and had no problem doing so. She is just as beautiful inside as she was outside. This story was smooth, loving, and a real pleasure to read. It's a feel-good story. 5 stars for me.
Profile Image for Curly Bibliophagist .
469 reviews4 followers
January 14, 2025
This book has such a great meet cute!

Rafferty is a member of the Pittsburgh Titans hockey team. He had a one night stand with a co-worker, which was bad enough. But when she won't accept that Rafferty isn't interested in anything else, she tries to blackmails him into a relationship with threats.

Rafferty knows the one night stand was a mistake. But now she just won't leave him alone and she seems to be stalking him. When he spots her in the grocery store, he decides to show her that he has a girlfriend, hoping she'll lay off if him. In desperation, Rafferty goes to the woman stocking the shelves and quickly begs her to go along with it and he kisses her. The sparks fly and Rafferty is captivated. Unfortunately, he is now stuck in the fake girlfriend ruse.

Tempe was working hard when a handsome man came up and kissed her. She was taken aback by what she felt. She reluctantly agrees to help Rafferty by playing his girlfriend, even though she is practically drowning in responsibilities at home.

These two find that they have more in common than they thought and start to have a true relationship. They lean on each other. But can it survive a crazy stalker one night stand and her threats and the house of cards that is Tempe's life?
Profile Image for Janet.
416 reviews
January 14, 2025
Rafferty was an awesome book to start this new year listening to. One of the things that I enjoyed about it was that the book also takes place during December/January timeframe so it made it even more realistic being we have just finished up December and are now in January.
Don’t be worried about reading Rafferty if you have not read any of the other books in the Pittsburg Titans series because it can be read as a stand alone. I personally recommend reading them in order so you don’t have spoilers about other teammates but what you need to know about them, the author does a great job in giving you history.
Rafferty is a player and when a one night stand becomes a stalker, what he ends up doing in a panic isn’t something I see often in books so it was refreshing. Tempe and Rafferty are perfect and how they relate to each other is also very refreshing. I did feel like a few pieces have been left open, which is typical since the books do not have an epilogue since the characters do carry over to future stories.
The narration was great. The narrators really brought the story to life, to the extent you really felt like you were in the scene experiencing it. I found myself listening to the story outside my normal drive time. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
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