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Tempting The Goalie
He’s a six-foot-four hockey Adonis on the ice—and a heartbreaker off it.
Luc Chabot has always been the most gorgeous guy in town, with stormy gray eyes and muscles for days.
The catch? He’s also my best friend.
When my NHL hockey player boyfriend cheats on me and leaves my confidence in pieces,
Luc is the one who shows up just like he always does.
But this time, I need more than a shoulder to cry on.
I need to feel wanted. Desired. Alive again.
Luc is Riverside U’s golden boy the guy every girl wants.
When his reputation takes a hit, I make him a deal: I’ll help clean up his image… and he’ll help remind me exactly what I’ve been missing.
No strings. No feelings. Just friends crossing lines we swore we never would.
Then his hands start lingering in places they shouldn’t.
His voice drops, low and rough, when he says my name.
And the heat between us turns into something I can’t pretend away.
He’s not a forever kind of guy.
Yet the way he touches me, it feels like everything I’ve ever wanted. And that’s the most dangerous part of all.
Luc Chabot has always been the most gorgeous guy in town, with stormy gray eyes and muscles for days.
The catch? He’s also my best friend.
When my NHL hockey player boyfriend cheats on me and leaves my confidence in pieces,
Luc is the one who shows up just like he always does.
But this time, I need more than a shoulder to cry on.
I need to feel wanted. Desired. Alive again.
Luc is Riverside U’s golden boy the guy every girl wants.
When his reputation takes a hit, I make him a deal: I’ll help clean up his image… and he’ll help remind me exactly what I’ve been missing.
No strings. No feelings. Just friends crossing lines we swore we never would.
Then his hands start lingering in places they shouldn’t.
His voice drops, low and rough, when he says my name.
And the heat between us turns into something I can’t pretend away.
He’s not a forever kind of guy.
Yet the way he touches me, it feels like everything I’ve ever wanted. And that’s the most dangerous part of all.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2025
196 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Stephens
44 books1,425 followersR.C. Stephens writes the kind of stories that make you laugh, cry, and believe in love all over again.
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
A Top 100 Amazon bestselling author, she crafts emotional, heartfelt romances full of humor, heat, and happily ever afters.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably wrangling her three kids, sneaking in a coffee date with her husband, or walking her lovable goldendoodle, who’s always by her side during late-night writing sessions.
A proud Toronto native, she loves cozy winters—but it’s the colors of fall and the first bloom of spring that truly inspire her.
Keep up with R.C. by signing up to her newsletter-http://rcstephens.com/newsletter/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rc.stephens.8/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rc_stephens...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 10, 2025
This sports romance book has me kicking my feet and giggling. A 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ rating for smut is always a game changer for me! I absolutely love a good friends to lovers Romance especially when the prologue always starts with the one friend being scared of falling in love, so he mask that by being involved with many women. His girl, best friend has known him almost their entire lives, and although she has always adored him, they have agreed they would never cross that line and he never wanted to ruin that friendship because it meant so much to him. Their family was always rooting for them to get together, but as they became adults, it never happened and he continued to keep that line drawn. One day he needed to fix his image and she was the one to help him do that with no strings attached, and for everyone to see that he wasn’t just a Playboy. In return he was supposed to make her feel desired and wanted and show her what she’s been missing, making them cross that line. This is a highly recommended spicy friends to lovers sports romance book.
September 16, 2025
ARC review
Tempting the goalie by R.C Stephens
He called her "mon coeur". Awww, that's so sweet! 🥹
Omg they are adorable - I love it. I really like how Luc acts around her, how he treats her, and the way he speaks to her.
I also love Izzy's friends. I really hope each of them gets their own - I would totally read them, especially Yuna's. 🩷
I can really relate to Izzy , I just don't have a Luc of my own. 😔
I definitely want a book about Elyna and Phoenix. I can' t wait for their story! 😭
This was such a cute story overall, and I truly enjoyed it. Their friendship was so special.
Also, I can 't wait for the stories about her brothers - I need a book for every single one of them. 🤗
Tropes in this book:
Friends to lover
Smal town
Hockey romance
College romance
Player × good girl
If you like these tropes, this book is totally for you! 🤗
Thank you R.C Stephens and Grey's Promotions for a copy of this book. 💗✨️
Tempting the goalie by R.C Stephens
He called her "mon coeur". Awww, that's so sweet! 🥹
Omg they are adorable - I love it. I really like how Luc acts around her, how he treats her, and the way he speaks to her.
I also love Izzy's friends. I really hope each of them gets their own - I would totally read them, especially Yuna's. 🩷
I can really relate to Izzy , I just don't have a Luc of my own. 😔
I definitely want a book about Elyna and Phoenix. I can' t wait for their story! 😭
This was such a cute story overall, and I truly enjoyed it. Their friendship was so special.
Also, I can 't wait for the stories about her brothers - I need a book for every single one of them. 🤗
Tropes in this book:
Friends to lover
Smal town
Hockey romance
College romance
Player × good girl
If you like these tropes, this book is totally for you! 🤗
Thank you R.C Stephens and Grey's Promotions for a copy of this book. 💗✨️
September 9, 2025
Oh my Luc and Izzy were amazing!!! It’s been a while since I read a friends to lovers and I forgot how much fun they are! These two were written in the stars for sure! I love how much they took into consideration each others wants and needs and their chemistry was phenomenal! I love revisiting with some of the other Riverside U characters and am hoping for more from Izzy’s brothers (and Luc’s sister)! What a great read!!
September 27, 2025
There were some good parts, but it just wasn't the best. Like mentioning your ex every 3 pages? Or the plot about her mother? Doesn't make any sense for me. And I also feel it was really fast paced. But it was a nice book.
September 3, 2025
✨ This is an arc review and the book was provided by Grey’s promotions, so thank you for the opportunity ✨
I want to start off by being honest with how I ended up rating this book 2.5 stars. I’ve never read this author before so I wasn’t familiar with the writing style, the characters or any of the subplots from previous books. However, the first half of it was rough for me.
What I mean by rough is that the plot seemed rushed and both characters fell flat. Luc and Izzy being best friends since childhood allows them to have a deeper backstory to their developed feelings, their actions towards one another and understanding why they act like they do. Although that is present in the second half of the book, the first chapters felt very long for what they actually covered. Luc getting in trouble for his sexual escapades seemed on point for the where the plot line was headed but the intimate scenes were just not it for me. They were short and almost bland.
I do have some spoiler ridden comments so I’ll blur those out
The second half gets better and so do Izzy and Luc but it’s still not for me. It might not be the expected review and again, I’m not familiar with this author’s work so it might be an anomaly. I just couldn’t connect with the characters and I felt like the plot was lengthened without actually needing to be.
Thank you grey’s promotions anyways for the arc
I want to start off by being honest with how I ended up rating this book 2.5 stars. I’ve never read this author before so I wasn’t familiar with the writing style, the characters or any of the subplots from previous books. However, the first half of it was rough for me.
What I mean by rough is that the plot seemed rushed and both characters fell flat. Luc and Izzy being best friends since childhood allows them to have a deeper backstory to their developed feelings, their actions towards one another and understanding why they act like they do. Although that is present in the second half of the book, the first chapters felt very long for what they actually covered. Luc getting in trouble for his sexual escapades seemed on point for the where the plot line was headed but the intimate scenes were just not it for me. They were short and almost bland.
I do have some spoiler ridden comments so I’ll blur those out
The second half gets better and so do Izzy and Luc but it’s still not for me. It might not be the expected review and again, I’m not familiar with this author’s work so it might be an anomaly. I just couldn’t connect with the characters and I felt like the plot was lengthened without actually needing to be.
Thank you grey’s promotions anyways for the arc
September 6, 2025
It's back to the hockey house at Riverside U with playboy Luc Chabot's fake dating, best friends to lovers romance taking the stage.
Tempting the Goalie is the 5th book in the Riverside U series by R.C. Stephens. This book can be enjoyed as a stand alone but personally I really think you get the most enjoyment out of it if you've read the other books in this interconnected series.
What can I say about Luc and Izzy? These two are kind of the cliche friends to lovers trope especially when it comes to two childhood friends with very different personality types while still being completely addictive. Luc is full of that typical jock swagger and cockiness- he enjoys the party life and isn't one to turn away any of the puck bunny benefits. Izzy on the other hand is the quintessential bookworm best friend- she's timid and would rather be at home than out on the town. So when Luc finds himself in hot water with his coach over some very extra curricular activities at the same time Izzy finds herself in the aftermath of her pro-hockey player boyfriend very publicly moving on, these two do what they do best... take care of one another. Things are supposed to be just for show but of course the stars aligned just right for things to take a spicy turn- and well, hearts were already involved from the get go.
By all appearances these two don't make sense even as friends much less in any romantic sense. That is until you dive into their history and everything these two have been through with each other. I really love that this book spends a lot of time with these two back home and in their natural environment- because I really needed that deep dive into who Luc is at his core.
I love who Luc is when he's with Izzy. He's protective, sweet, caring and allows her to see those more vulnerable moments. He holds his friendship with her in such a high regard that despite needing to clean up his image, he doesn't want to sully hers in any way. But when it comes down to it, he can't stand the thought of her "exploring" with anyone other than him even if that means facing his feelings that might be a little more than friendly. I love how perfectly Izzy compliments Luc- she's the calm to his chaos, she's so sweet and loyal and best part is that being with her feeds that wild side inside him in the sexiest of ways.
I absolutely love that this book doesn't have a third act break up. There's drama for sure but it didn't come at the expense of these two fulfilling their small hometowns bet that these two were simply made for each other. The family that Luc and his sister find with Izzy and her father/brothers made my heart so happy. Plus I love that this also sets the stage a bit for the next series from R.C. because Izzy's got some single brothers that need a revised view on relationships just like Luc!
Tempting the Goalie is the 5th book in the Riverside U series by R.C. Stephens. This book can be enjoyed as a stand alone but personally I really think you get the most enjoyment out of it if you've read the other books in this interconnected series.
What can I say about Luc and Izzy? These two are kind of the cliche friends to lovers trope especially when it comes to two childhood friends with very different personality types while still being completely addictive. Luc is full of that typical jock swagger and cockiness- he enjoys the party life and isn't one to turn away any of the puck bunny benefits. Izzy on the other hand is the quintessential bookworm best friend- she's timid and would rather be at home than out on the town. So when Luc finds himself in hot water with his coach over some very extra curricular activities at the same time Izzy finds herself in the aftermath of her pro-hockey player boyfriend very publicly moving on, these two do what they do best... take care of one another. Things are supposed to be just for show but of course the stars aligned just right for things to take a spicy turn- and well, hearts were already involved from the get go.
By all appearances these two don't make sense even as friends much less in any romantic sense. That is until you dive into their history and everything these two have been through with each other. I really love that this book spends a lot of time with these two back home and in their natural environment- because I really needed that deep dive into who Luc is at his core.
I love who Luc is when he's with Izzy. He's protective, sweet, caring and allows her to see those more vulnerable moments. He holds his friendship with her in such a high regard that despite needing to clean up his image, he doesn't want to sully hers in any way. But when it comes down to it, he can't stand the thought of her "exploring" with anyone other than him even if that means facing his feelings that might be a little more than friendly. I love how perfectly Izzy compliments Luc- she's the calm to his chaos, she's so sweet and loyal and best part is that being with her feeds that wild side inside him in the sexiest of ways.
I absolutely love that this book doesn't have a third act break up. There's drama for sure but it didn't come at the expense of these two fulfilling their small hometowns bet that these two were simply made for each other. The family that Luc and his sister find with Izzy and her father/brothers made my heart so happy. Plus I love that this also sets the stage a bit for the next series from R.C. because Izzy's got some single brothers that need a revised view on relationships just like Luc!
August 30, 2025
🏒 Sports Romance
👫 Best Friends to Lovers
🔥 No-Strings Arrangement
💔 Second Chance at Love
💞 Slow Burn
💪 Protective Hero
💖 HEA (Happily Ever After)
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Tempting the Goalie by R.C. Stephens is a heartfelt, slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance that delivers all the emotional tension and swoony moments fans of the Riverside U series have come to expect. This fifth installment takes us deeper into the lives of two characters who have always been in each other’s orbit—Luc Chabot, the charming, larger-than-life hockey star, and his best friend Izzy, who suddenly needs him in a way neither of them anticipated.
The story begins with heartbreak: after being betrayed by her NHL player boyfriend, Izzy is left reeling and vulnerable. Enter Luc, the dependable best friend who’s always been there—but this time, the comfort he offers sparks something neither of them can ignore. Their pact to keep things casual and “just for now” sets the stage for a deliciously tense dynamic, full of stolen glances, lingering touches, and the kind of chemistry that makes you root for them to break every rule they set.
What makes this book stand out is the emotional depth beneath the heat. Luc isn’t just a cocky hockey player; he’s layered, loyal, and unexpectedly tender. His protective streak and the way he sees Izzy when she feels invisible make him irresistible. Izzy's journey from heartbreak to rediscovering her worth is equally compelling, and their banter adds levity to the heavier moments.
The romance is steamy without overshadowing the heartfelt connection, and the “no strings” agreement inevitably unravels in the most satisfying way. Fans of best-friends-to-lovers tropes will adore the slow build and the payoff. Plus, the promise of no cheating and a guaranteed happy ending makes this a safe, feel-good read for romance lovers.
If you enjoy sports romance with a mix of angst, passion, and genuine friendship at its core, Tempting the Goalie is a must-read. It’s a story about second chances, trust, and the terrifying beauty of falling for the one person you thought you could never have.
👫 Best Friends to Lovers
🔥 No-Strings Arrangement
💔 Second Chance at Love
💞 Slow Burn
💪 Protective Hero
💖 HEA (Happily Ever After)
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Tempting the Goalie by R.C. Stephens is a heartfelt, slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance that delivers all the emotional tension and swoony moments fans of the Riverside U series have come to expect. This fifth installment takes us deeper into the lives of two characters who have always been in each other’s orbit—Luc Chabot, the charming, larger-than-life hockey star, and his best friend Izzy, who suddenly needs him in a way neither of them anticipated.
The story begins with heartbreak: after being betrayed by her NHL player boyfriend, Izzy is left reeling and vulnerable. Enter Luc, the dependable best friend who’s always been there—but this time, the comfort he offers sparks something neither of them can ignore. Their pact to keep things casual and “just for now” sets the stage for a deliciously tense dynamic, full of stolen glances, lingering touches, and the kind of chemistry that makes you root for them to break every rule they set.
What makes this book stand out is the emotional depth beneath the heat. Luc isn’t just a cocky hockey player; he’s layered, loyal, and unexpectedly tender. His protective streak and the way he sees Izzy when she feels invisible make him irresistible. Izzy's journey from heartbreak to rediscovering her worth is equally compelling, and their banter adds levity to the heavier moments.
The romance is steamy without overshadowing the heartfelt connection, and the “no strings” agreement inevitably unravels in the most satisfying way. Fans of best-friends-to-lovers tropes will adore the slow build and the payoff. Plus, the promise of no cheating and a guaranteed happy ending makes this a safe, feel-good read for romance lovers.
If you enjoy sports romance with a mix of angst, passion, and genuine friendship at its core, Tempting the Goalie is a must-read. It’s a story about second chances, trust, and the terrifying beauty of falling for the one person you thought you could never have.
September 11, 2025
I don’t know what it is but there is just something about an ice hockey player and when he’s French Canadian, well be still my beating heart! – do French Canadians even have French accents? No matter, in my fertile imagination they do. Luc Chabot was a bad boy between the sheets which comes back and bites him just when he has the eyes of the selectors on him. Warned by his coach that his reputation could cost him everything he’s been working towards he automatically calls his childhood bestie and fellow Riverside student Isabelle for help. Izzy has just broken up with her long-term boyfriend after catching him cheating. Realising that no man has ever satisfied her she makes a deal with Luc. If the goalie helps her score that elusive ‘O’ she’ll play the part of his girlfriend.
This was a great friends to lovers’ romance that runs concurrent with the earlier books in the series. There hadn’t been a time in their lives when they hadn’t been friends even though they were complete opposites with Luc a jock with a different girl(s) every night while Izzy was the dedicated student and all-round good girl. Their mothers had been best friends, and they had gravitated towards each other when tragedy struck and just became the others ‘go-to person’. I loved how possessive Luc was of Izzy to the extent his team didn’t know she existed. He’d told himself he wanted to protect her from simply being another notch on some players bedpost but perhaps he’d known how much she meant to him even as he told her she was too good for him but he showed the goodness of his true nature when he asked her father for permission to date his daughter, a little late perhaps but the thought was there. Theirs was just a sweet and beautiful romance with all the feels and very little angst or any third act break up for dramatic effect. I would’ve loved the epilogue to be set further in the future but since this author’s next series is going to be based in their hometown and feature Izzy’s brothers perhaps we haven’t heard the last of Luc and Izzy.
This was a great friends to lovers’ romance that runs concurrent with the earlier books in the series. There hadn’t been a time in their lives when they hadn’t been friends even though they were complete opposites with Luc a jock with a different girl(s) every night while Izzy was the dedicated student and all-round good girl. Their mothers had been best friends, and they had gravitated towards each other when tragedy struck and just became the others ‘go-to person’. I loved how possessive Luc was of Izzy to the extent his team didn’t know she existed. He’d told himself he wanted to protect her from simply being another notch on some players bedpost but perhaps he’d known how much she meant to him even as he told her she was too good for him but he showed the goodness of his true nature when he asked her father for permission to date his daughter, a little late perhaps but the thought was there. Theirs was just a sweet and beautiful romance with all the feels and very little angst or any third act break up for dramatic effect. I would’ve loved the epilogue to be set further in the future but since this author’s next series is going to be based in their hometown and feature Izzy’s brothers perhaps we haven’t heard the last of Luc and Izzy.
September 17, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Tempting the Goalie by R.C. Stephens
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you, R.C. Stephens and @greyspromo, for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Luc is a college hockey player chasing his NHL dreams. When his latest hookup secretly films them and puts it on the internet, his coach is on him to clean up his image before he damages his chances permanently. The solution? Fake date his lifelong best friend (and secret crush), Isabelle.
Izzy is still reeling from the public humiliation of her pro-hockey ex’s infidelity. While her self-esteem has taken a hit, she knows deep down she was never truly in love with him... because her heart has always belonged to Luc. She agrees to fake date him in exchange for spicy lessons, hoping to understand why sparks never flew in her last relationship.
Luc is hesitant to cross the line, terrified that giving into their chemistry will mean losing the only woman he’s ever truly loved. But the more they blur the line between best friends and lovers, the more undeniable it becomes: it was always them.
What surprised me most about this book was how emotional it was. Luc’s devotion to Izzy and his fear of not being enough for her broke my heart, while his deep bond with her dad had me tearing up.
And Izzy? I loved her. Women in STEM will always be a winner for me, and I find clinical psychology particularly fascinating. I think it was important that her choice of graduate school was viewed as equally important as which NHL team Luc would want to sign with. I also loved her close friendship with Priya and Yuna, and how supportive they are.
For fans of: 🏒 Hockey romance | 👩❤️👨 Childhood best friends to lovers | 💍 Fake dating | 🔥 Spicy lessons | 😏 Reformed playboy | ❤️ It was always you | 🧠 Women in STEM
#TemptingTheGoalie #RCStephens #ARCReview #HockeyRomance #BestFriendsToLovers #FakeDatingTrope #SportsRomanceBooks #CollegeRomance #SpicyRomanceReads #FriendsToLoversTrope #ReformedPlayboy #WomenInSTEM #ItWasAlwaysYou #RomanceBooksOfInstagram #BookstagramRomance #SpicyBookstagram
Tempting the Goalie by R.C. Stephens
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you, R.C. Stephens and @greyspromo, for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Luc is a college hockey player chasing his NHL dreams. When his latest hookup secretly films them and puts it on the internet, his coach is on him to clean up his image before he damages his chances permanently. The solution? Fake date his lifelong best friend (and secret crush), Isabelle.
Izzy is still reeling from the public humiliation of her pro-hockey ex’s infidelity. While her self-esteem has taken a hit, she knows deep down she was never truly in love with him... because her heart has always belonged to Luc. She agrees to fake date him in exchange for spicy lessons, hoping to understand why sparks never flew in her last relationship.
Luc is hesitant to cross the line, terrified that giving into their chemistry will mean losing the only woman he’s ever truly loved. But the more they blur the line between best friends and lovers, the more undeniable it becomes: it was always them.
What surprised me most about this book was how emotional it was. Luc’s devotion to Izzy and his fear of not being enough for her broke my heart, while his deep bond with her dad had me tearing up.
And Izzy? I loved her. Women in STEM will always be a winner for me, and I find clinical psychology particularly fascinating. I think it was important that her choice of graduate school was viewed as equally important as which NHL team Luc would want to sign with. I also loved her close friendship with Priya and Yuna, and how supportive they are.
For fans of: 🏒 Hockey romance | 👩❤️👨 Childhood best friends to lovers | 💍 Fake dating | 🔥 Spicy lessons | 😏 Reformed playboy | ❤️ It was always you | 🧠 Women in STEM
#TemptingTheGoalie #RCStephens #ARCReview #HockeyRomance #BestFriendsToLovers #FakeDatingTrope #SportsRomanceBooks #CollegeRomance #SpicyRomanceReads #FriendsToLoversTrope #ReformedPlayboy #WomenInSTEM #ItWasAlwaysYou #RomanceBooksOfInstagram #BookstagramRomance #SpicyBookstagram
August 31, 2025
R.C. Stephens returns to the ice with Tempting the Goalie, the fifth installment in her Riverside U series. This time, the spotlight is on Luc Chabot, the brooding, six-foot-four goalie with a bad-boy reputation, and a heart that’s been secretly spoken for.
Luc and Izzy’s story is a classic friends-to-lovers romance with a fake-dating twist, set against the backdrop of college hockey fame and the emotional fallout of past betrayals. After a scandal threatens Luc’s NHL future, his longtime best friend Izzy steps in to play the role of his image-saving girlfriend. The chemistry that sparks between them isn’t new; but acting on it changes everything.
Stephens writes with an engaging style that’s easy to fall into, and her portrayal of the unspoken longing between Luc and Izzy adds a layer of tenderness to the otherwise familiar beats of this trope-filled romance. The dual POV helps deepen the emotional connection, and fans of slow burns with a guaranteed HEA will find plenty to swoon over.
That said, while the setup is strong, the plot remains fairly predictable, with few surprises beyond the central reveal that both leads have been secretly pining for years. The emotional stakes never quite hit as hard as they could have, and several scenes, particularly the steamier ones, felt like filler rather than substance, stretching out moments that might’ve been better used to deepen the characters’ arcs.
Still, as a first-time reader of R.C. Stephens, I found the writing smooth and the pacing consistent. Tempting the Goalie is a pleasant, easy read with a lovable hero, a strong sense of friendship-turned-romance, and just enough heart to make it memorable, even if it doesn’t break new ground.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and bestie of luck to R.C. Stephens on her release day!
3.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
Luc and Izzy’s story is a classic friends-to-lovers romance with a fake-dating twist, set against the backdrop of college hockey fame and the emotional fallout of past betrayals. After a scandal threatens Luc’s NHL future, his longtime best friend Izzy steps in to play the role of his image-saving girlfriend. The chemistry that sparks between them isn’t new; but acting on it changes everything.
Stephens writes with an engaging style that’s easy to fall into, and her portrayal of the unspoken longing between Luc and Izzy adds a layer of tenderness to the otherwise familiar beats of this trope-filled romance. The dual POV helps deepen the emotional connection, and fans of slow burns with a guaranteed HEA will find plenty to swoon over.
That said, while the setup is strong, the plot remains fairly predictable, with few surprises beyond the central reveal that both leads have been secretly pining for years. The emotional stakes never quite hit as hard as they could have, and several scenes, particularly the steamier ones, felt like filler rather than substance, stretching out moments that might’ve been better used to deepen the characters’ arcs.
Still, as a first-time reader of R.C. Stephens, I found the writing smooth and the pacing consistent. Tempting the Goalie is a pleasant, easy read with a lovable hero, a strong sense of friendship-turned-romance, and just enough heart to make it memorable, even if it doesn’t break new ground.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and bestie of luck to R.C. Stephens on her release day!
3.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
September 10, 2025
He calls her "Mon Coeur"
The fifth installment in R.C. Stephens' Riverside U hockey series did not disappoint. TEMPTING THE GOALIE was an engaging friends to lovers, slow burn, college romance, which was heartfelt, humourous, and spicy. It is the story of an evolving friendship which has all the history, tension, banter, chemistry, and yearning that I've come to love from this author's writing.
Hockey goalie Luc Chabot and book nerd Isabelle 'Izzy' Thorne have been best of friends since their childhood; they've shared both their secrets and their heartaches. Luc is living his best "hockey life", which means lots of girls, and now he finds himself in trouble with his coaches. Luc has been told to clean up his act and he knows the perfect person to help him. Izzy has just come out of a long-term relationship after finding out, through social media, that her boyfriend had been cheating on her. When Luc approaches her about his dilemma she agrees to help him, but she adds a condition.
Luc and Izzy have had crushes on each other for years; they've kept their secrets for fear of ruining their friendship. The things I loved most about their friendship were their honesty and openness, the sharing of their emotions, the support they gave each other, and their passion. I adored Luc's special name for Izzy, it melted me every time he used it. They were perfect together, but what will happen when fake becomes real?
TEMPTING THE GOALIE was a terrific read, it captured and melted my heart. Luc and Izzy were so likeable and relatable, I just wanted to wrap them up in big loving hugs. I adored Izzy's brothers, they were hilarious and extremely protective. This story had me smiling from beginning to end. I can't wait to read what Ms. Stephens has coming up next, the teasing at the end of this book has me very excited.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
The fifth installment in R.C. Stephens' Riverside U hockey series did not disappoint. TEMPTING THE GOALIE was an engaging friends to lovers, slow burn, college romance, which was heartfelt, humourous, and spicy. It is the story of an evolving friendship which has all the history, tension, banter, chemistry, and yearning that I've come to love from this author's writing.
Hockey goalie Luc Chabot and book nerd Isabelle 'Izzy' Thorne have been best of friends since their childhood; they've shared both their secrets and their heartaches. Luc is living his best "hockey life", which means lots of girls, and now he finds himself in trouble with his coaches. Luc has been told to clean up his act and he knows the perfect person to help him. Izzy has just come out of a long-term relationship after finding out, through social media, that her boyfriend had been cheating on her. When Luc approaches her about his dilemma she agrees to help him, but she adds a condition.
Luc and Izzy have had crushes on each other for years; they've kept their secrets for fear of ruining their friendship. The things I loved most about their friendship were their honesty and openness, the sharing of their emotions, the support they gave each other, and their passion. I adored Luc's special name for Izzy, it melted me every time he used it. They were perfect together, but what will happen when fake becomes real?
TEMPTING THE GOALIE was a terrific read, it captured and melted my heart. Luc and Izzy were so likeable and relatable, I just wanted to wrap them up in big loving hugs. I adored Izzy's brothers, they were hilarious and extremely protective. This story had me smiling from beginning to end. I can't wait to read what Ms. Stephens has coming up next, the teasing at the end of this book has me very excited.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
September 10, 2025
Who doesn’t love a hockey romance, and RC Stephens does them so well, this whole series is just so well connected but also each book stands alone so well! I also cannot wait for the upcoming small town series teased with Izzy’s brothers because I know it’s going to be so good. I was nervous in the first quarter of this book, that it would fall into the version of friends to lovers I really don’t like, but I was pleasantly surprised when it turned and didn’t have any of the elements that I usually dislike! Luc is a hockey player, who seems just bored with his life, and is struggling to find ways to entertain himself when he’s not playing hockey and it lands him in a ton of trouble when a tape gets released and he has to damage control before the NFL scouts start to look over him due to his reputation. Izzy is just leaving a relationship where she was publicly cheated on, and she is insecure over her skills as a girlfriend. Then, these two decide to make a deal.
I love how respectful Luc was over their friendship, he was so nervous about risking it all, and I respected how much he valued and respected Izzy and her dreams, knowing he was terrified of commitment and a future of being a husband and father. Izzy just wanted to become more confident and was sure she wouldn’t fall in love with Luc, but we all know how that goes. I also loved how well these two communicated, they were so open and honest with each other with what they were struggling with, what they enjoyed, and the secrets that were coming out, it made me love them as a couple so quickly! Now, I cannot wait to see Izzy’s brother’s fall one by one, cause they were so not looking for anything remotely resembling a relationship!
I love how respectful Luc was over their friendship, he was so nervous about risking it all, and I respected how much he valued and respected Izzy and her dreams, knowing he was terrified of commitment and a future of being a husband and father. Izzy just wanted to become more confident and was sure she wouldn’t fall in love with Luc, but we all know how that goes. I also loved how well these two communicated, they were so open and honest with each other with what they were struggling with, what they enjoyed, and the secrets that were coming out, it made me love them as a couple so quickly! Now, I cannot wait to see Izzy’s brother’s fall one by one, cause they were so not looking for anything remotely resembling a relationship!
September 15, 2025
First big thank you to Grey’s Promotion for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I want to give a small disclaimer I have read this author previously before. However, I didn’t realize when i requested this that it was the fourth book in a series. I honestly thought this was the first one based on promo appearances. So my review being as low is due to the fact that I was so freaking confused reading this. Because I had no idea who any of these characters were and it was very obvious that the author expected you to know everything ahead of time.
Now in terms of the plot itself with Luc & Izzy it was fine. Don’t get me wrong I’m all down to friends to lovers being forced to fake date in order to save a playboys reputation. But the execution with them just wasn’t it. My main issue was everything with their relationship felt extremely rushed. They went from hesitant to undergo fake dating to literally two chapters later I love you’s and let’s constantly bang the heck out of each other. Like Geezus kids wait a damn minute.
Also side topic Luc getting into trouble for the threesome video also rubbed me the wrong way. Why weren’t his coaches convincing him to file a police report. He was filmed without his consent and then leaked online. There are definitely laws against this exact thing taking place. Yet the whole event was just brushed aside and chalked up to “boys being boys”. Excuse me no, guys can be taken advantage of too and you shouldn’t just brush it off.
Overall, this wasn’t for me I’ve enjoyed this authors other books but I’d say this is a skip for me.
I want to give a small disclaimer I have read this author previously before. However, I didn’t realize when i requested this that it was the fourth book in a series. I honestly thought this was the first one based on promo appearances. So my review being as low is due to the fact that I was so freaking confused reading this. Because I had no idea who any of these characters were and it was very obvious that the author expected you to know everything ahead of time.
Now in terms of the plot itself with Luc & Izzy it was fine. Don’t get me wrong I’m all down to friends to lovers being forced to fake date in order to save a playboys reputation. But the execution with them just wasn’t it. My main issue was everything with their relationship felt extremely rushed. They went from hesitant to undergo fake dating to literally two chapters later I love you’s and let’s constantly bang the heck out of each other. Like Geezus kids wait a damn minute.
Also side topic Luc getting into trouble for the threesome video also rubbed me the wrong way. Why weren’t his coaches convincing him to file a police report. He was filmed without his consent and then leaked online. There are definitely laws against this exact thing taking place. Yet the whole event was just brushed aside and chalked up to “boys being boys”. Excuse me no, guys can be taken advantage of too and you shouldn’t just brush it off.
Overall, this wasn’t for me I’ve enjoyed this authors other books but I’d say this is a skip for me.
October 4, 2025
Izzy also known as Isabel is the quiet nerdy girl working on keeping her GPA up and really wants to become a psychologist she's just discovered her NHL hockey boyfriend has been cheating on her. Luc is the Goalie for his college hockey team there chances of getting into the frozen four are really good but he's on thin ice when his coach sees some really bad social media video of his extra curricular activities he's young he likes the puck bunnies and the parties but if he expects to make into the NHL he has to clean his image up he's coach suggest a fake relationship but Luc can't do relationship s they terrify him hes not that guy but his bestfriend Izzy needs him after her boyfriend who he hated breakes her heart. Izzy and Luc can help each other out but Luc dosen't want to ruin the best thing in his life Izzy she wants the campus hotie Luc to teach her how to keep a man if they can keep it strictly a friend's with benefits fake relationship just until the frozen four so what happens when they don't want things to end when they finally admit all those years as friend's was hiding how they really felt about each other. He's against comitmit she wants a husband and family they both lost there mothers his to a car accident her when she just left he doesn't think he's good enough for her but Izzy doesn't want to give up on him and when they go home for the summer secrets get revealed and Luc has to decide what's more important love or living only half a life without the one girl he's always loved. I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
September 5, 2025
Luc and Izzy have been best friends since they were kids. Their moms were friends and they lived next door to each other. He’s on his way to make it to the NHL and she’s studying psychology at the same college. While they are there Luc gets into trouble cause he’s a huge playboy. He is told to turn himself around or risk not getting into the NHL. So he convinces Izzy to pretend to be his girlfriend on one condition he teachers her how be a better girlfriend after she had a breakup. He agree but he doesn’t want to. There is one problem, they have both been in Iove with each other for years and never told the other one their feelings.
As time goes on, her lessons turn into actual things and they both are coming to terms that this just isn’t a fake relationship. They look and act like a real couple and everyone is starting to notice it and they slowly are as well. When they go home for the summer, they don’t want to tell their families cause they are unsure how they will react. Turns out they are figured it would happen one day and they are all not surprised when it finally comes out.
while they are home, they both have to come to terms with something’s in the past, and it actually brings them closer together and makes their relationship stronger.
There are definitely some very funny moments, there is lots of spice and there is some hard truths that are learned. I enjoyed this book and now I want to read on about Izzy’s brothers!! I deff recommend this book if you love friends to lovers!
As time goes on, her lessons turn into actual things and they both are coming to terms that this just isn’t a fake relationship. They look and act like a real couple and everyone is starting to notice it and they slowly are as well. When they go home for the summer, they don’t want to tell their families cause they are unsure how they will react. Turns out they are figured it would happen one day and they are all not surprised when it finally comes out.
while they are home, they both have to come to terms with something’s in the past, and it actually brings them closer together and makes their relationship stronger.
There are definitely some very funny moments, there is lots of spice and there is some hard truths that are learned. I enjoyed this book and now I want to read on about Izzy’s brothers!! I deff recommend this book if you love friends to lovers!
September 10, 2025
Sometimes you don't truly realize the value of a friend until adversity strikes, its those that stick around and do anything and everything to help that should be treasured.
Luc seemed to have it all, a starting position with the hockey team, destined for the NHL. A great group of teammates and friends, and a lot of "bunnies" throwing themselves at him. He embraced the playboy lifestyle until one impulsive decision put his entire future in jeopardy.
Isabella was the girl next door, best friend and confidant for the majority of her life. She liked being outside the spotlight and when her NHL player boyfriend cheated on her, she realized that she loved the life they planned more than him. With the help of her friends she decided that she needed to let loose and have some fun and who better to have fun with than her best childhood friend, Luc!
Luc and Izzy were inseparable growing up and followed each other to university but Luc kept Izzy away from hockey and the team to protect her from the "players" and to keep his nightmarish family drama a secret. When Luc and Izzy both needed help, they always turned to each other. They loved each other even though they thought they were permanently friend zoned. They made the decision to "date" to help each other and this unlocked a new level of friendship that was both terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. They were both scared to lose each other but too scared to want forever.
Do they get their forever or is friendship all they are destined for?
I loved Luc and Izzy. They are definitely the perfect couple to end this series with. Each of the five teammates and couples are unique and their books are amazing. I recommend reading them all in order because you understand the supporting characters that way. This book will definitely be re-read more than once.
Thank you Grey's Promotions and R.C. Stephens for the ARC! I am extremely lucky and grateful for the opportunity to review!
Luc seemed to have it all, a starting position with the hockey team, destined for the NHL. A great group of teammates and friends, and a lot of "bunnies" throwing themselves at him. He embraced the playboy lifestyle until one impulsive decision put his entire future in jeopardy.
Isabella was the girl next door, best friend and confidant for the majority of her life. She liked being outside the spotlight and when her NHL player boyfriend cheated on her, she realized that she loved the life they planned more than him. With the help of her friends she decided that she needed to let loose and have some fun and who better to have fun with than her best childhood friend, Luc!
Luc and Izzy were inseparable growing up and followed each other to university but Luc kept Izzy away from hockey and the team to protect her from the "players" and to keep his nightmarish family drama a secret. When Luc and Izzy both needed help, they always turned to each other. They loved each other even though they thought they were permanently friend zoned. They made the decision to "date" to help each other and this unlocked a new level of friendship that was both terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. They were both scared to lose each other but too scared to want forever.
Do they get their forever or is friendship all they are destined for?
I loved Luc and Izzy. They are definitely the perfect couple to end this series with. Each of the five teammates and couples are unique and their books are amazing. I recommend reading them all in order because you understand the supporting characters that way. This book will definitely be re-read more than once.
Thank you Grey's Promotions and R.C. Stephens for the ARC! I am extremely lucky and grateful for the opportunity to review!
September 5, 2025
Friends-to-lovers perfection with just the right amount of fake dating and off-the-charts chemistry? Yes, please! Luc Chabot is Riverside U’s star goalie—charming, frustratingly hot, and completely off-limits… or so Izzy keeps telling herself. They’ve been best friends since childhood, the kind of ride-or-die bond that could never be messed with by something as messy as romance… right?
Except, somewhere between years of late-night talks, inside jokes, and lingering looks, their friendship started feeling a lot like something more. Both Luc and Izzy are carrying quiet crushes and pretending it's no big deal—but the tension? Oh, it's very real. Neither wants to risk what they have, but the closer they get, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s been building all along.
This story glows with witty banter, emotional honesty, and sizzling tension. Luc and Izzy's dynamic is everything: playful, tender, and packed with all the feels. Watching them navigate the fine line between friendship and something deeper is like being on the best kind of romantic rollercoaster.
If you love sports romance with heart, heat, and a hero who has major soft spot for his best girl (even if he doesn’t want to admit it), then this one’s for you.
Final thoughts: Flirty, feel-good, and full of swoon—this goalie’s got game, but it’s the girl next door who just might steal the win.
I received an advance copy from BookFunnel for my honest opinion.
Except, somewhere between years of late-night talks, inside jokes, and lingering looks, their friendship started feeling a lot like something more. Both Luc and Izzy are carrying quiet crushes and pretending it's no big deal—but the tension? Oh, it's very real. Neither wants to risk what they have, but the closer they get, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s been building all along.
This story glows with witty banter, emotional honesty, and sizzling tension. Luc and Izzy's dynamic is everything: playful, tender, and packed with all the feels. Watching them navigate the fine line between friendship and something deeper is like being on the best kind of romantic rollercoaster.
If you love sports romance with heart, heat, and a hero who has major soft spot for his best girl (even if he doesn’t want to admit it), then this one’s for you.
Final thoughts: Flirty, feel-good, and full of swoon—this goalie’s got game, but it’s the girl next door who just might steal the win.
I received an advance copy from BookFunnel for my honest opinion.
September 14, 2025
Thank you R.C. Stephens and Greys Promotions. I was given this book as an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This one is packed with hockey vibes, swoony romance, and enough drama to keep me flipping pages. I really loved the friends-to-lovers angle. Childhood besties turning into something more always gives me butterflies. The chemistry was great, and I liked how both characters had real emotional layers, not just surface-level attraction. The college hockey setting was fun and gave it that small-town / found-family vibe I enjoy. Also, there’s just something about a tarnished reputation getting redeemed that hits right. And huge plus: no cheating, and a happy ending that feels earned.
That said, it wasn’t perfect. Some parts felt a little predictable because there are a lot of tropes stuffed in here. I don’t mind that most of the time, but occasionally I wanted a fresher twist. There were moments where the angst dragged. There was a lot of self-doubt and emotional baggage. I caught myself wishing it would move along faster. The whole “deal / no-strings” setup was fun at first but got a little repetitive, and I wanted more balance between the hockey action and the romance side. The pacing dipped here and there, and some of the character flaws made them harder to root for.
If you love romance tropes, this book has basically all of them: friends to lovers, childhood besties, redemption arc, college setting, found family, no-cheating promise, deal / contractual arrangement, fake relationship that turns real, forbidden feelings, and second-chance healing. It’s tropey in the best way if that’s your jam.
Happy reading friends,
~ Maebae 💚
This one is packed with hockey vibes, swoony romance, and enough drama to keep me flipping pages. I really loved the friends-to-lovers angle. Childhood besties turning into something more always gives me butterflies. The chemistry was great, and I liked how both characters had real emotional layers, not just surface-level attraction. The college hockey setting was fun and gave it that small-town / found-family vibe I enjoy. Also, there’s just something about a tarnished reputation getting redeemed that hits right. And huge plus: no cheating, and a happy ending that feels earned.
That said, it wasn’t perfect. Some parts felt a little predictable because there are a lot of tropes stuffed in here. I don’t mind that most of the time, but occasionally I wanted a fresher twist. There were moments where the angst dragged. There was a lot of self-doubt and emotional baggage. I caught myself wishing it would move along faster. The whole “deal / no-strings” setup was fun at first but got a little repetitive, and I wanted more balance between the hockey action and the romance side. The pacing dipped here and there, and some of the character flaws made them harder to root for.
If you love romance tropes, this book has basically all of them: friends to lovers, childhood besties, redemption arc, college setting, found family, no-cheating promise, deal / contractual arrangement, fake relationship that turns real, forbidden feelings, and second-chance healing. It’s tropey in the best way if that’s your jam.
Happy reading friends,
~ Maebae 💚
September 17, 2025
Tempting the Goalie by R.C. Stephens is a heartfelt, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance that hits all the right notes—angst, passion, and swoony moments.
In this fifth installment, we dive into the lives of two characters who’ve always circled each other: Luc Chabot, the charming hockey star with a heart bigger than his ego, and his best friend Izzy, who suddenly needs him in ways neither of them expected.
The story opens with heartbreak. After being betrayed by her NHL boyfriend, Izzy is left reeling—vulnerable, raw, and questioning her worth. Enter Luc: the steady best friend who’s always had her back. Only this time, the comfort he offers ignites something impossible to ignore. Their “just for now” pact is the perfect setup for stolen glances, sizzling tension, and chemistry that refuses to stay casual.
What makes this book shine is the depth beneath the heat. Luc isn’t just another cocky goalie; he’s loyal, protective, and achingly tender, especially when Izzy feels invisible. Izzy’s journey from heartbreak to healing is just as compelling, and their playful banter lightens the weight of their struggles.
The romance simmers beautifully—steamy but never at the expense of the heart. And when their “no strings” deal unravels, the payoff is pure satisfaction. This book provides a guaranteed HEA, and that addictive best-friends-to-lovers magic that I love!
In this fifth installment, we dive into the lives of two characters who’ve always circled each other: Luc Chabot, the charming hockey star with a heart bigger than his ego, and his best friend Izzy, who suddenly needs him in ways neither of them expected.
The story opens with heartbreak. After being betrayed by her NHL boyfriend, Izzy is left reeling—vulnerable, raw, and questioning her worth. Enter Luc: the steady best friend who’s always had her back. Only this time, the comfort he offers ignites something impossible to ignore. Their “just for now” pact is the perfect setup for stolen glances, sizzling tension, and chemistry that refuses to stay casual.
What makes this book shine is the depth beneath the heat. Luc isn’t just another cocky goalie; he’s loyal, protective, and achingly tender, especially when Izzy feels invisible. Izzy’s journey from heartbreak to healing is just as compelling, and their playful banter lightens the weight of their struggles.
The romance simmers beautifully—steamy but never at the expense of the heart. And when their “no strings” deal unravels, the payoff is pure satisfaction. This book provides a guaranteed HEA, and that addictive best-friends-to-lovers magic that I love!
September 21, 2025
ARC Review
Tempting the Goalie is a sweet friends to lovers, college, hockey romance about Izzy and Lucy. Friends since childhood both have had feelings for the other for years without saying anything.
Luc didn't say anything because he never felt like he would have anything to offer Izzy and that she would be better with someone else. His childhood was not a happy one. His mother passed away when he was a little boy and his father was a barely functioning alcoholic.
Izzy never said anything because she always thought that Luc was out of her league.
However when Izzy finds out through social media that her NHL hockey boyfriend has been cheating, the first person she reaches out to is Luc.
Luc is in trouble with his coach and potential NHL teams about his extracurricular activities and needs to appear more responsible. Izzy is feeling pretty low about her "experience" and decides that she and Luc can help each other out.
While hesitant at first to give her lessons....Luc gets on board pretty quickly!
So the friends become lovers and have to consider how long to keep up this "ruse"....but does it have to end?
The language is a little stiff and conflicts resolve quickly but this is a sweet story.
Add it to your TBR because it's a good one!
Thanks to R.C. Stephens and Grey's Promotions for the ARC!
Tempting the Goalie is a sweet friends to lovers, college, hockey romance about Izzy and Lucy. Friends since childhood both have had feelings for the other for years without saying anything.
Luc didn't say anything because he never felt like he would have anything to offer Izzy and that she would be better with someone else. His childhood was not a happy one. His mother passed away when he was a little boy and his father was a barely functioning alcoholic.
Izzy never said anything because she always thought that Luc was out of her league.
However when Izzy finds out through social media that her NHL hockey boyfriend has been cheating, the first person she reaches out to is Luc.
Luc is in trouble with his coach and potential NHL teams about his extracurricular activities and needs to appear more responsible. Izzy is feeling pretty low about her "experience" and decides that she and Luc can help each other out.
While hesitant at first to give her lessons....Luc gets on board pretty quickly!
So the friends become lovers and have to consider how long to keep up this "ruse"....but does it have to end?
The language is a little stiff and conflicts resolve quickly but this is a sweet story.
Add it to your TBR because it's a good one!
Thanks to R.C. Stephens and Grey's Promotions for the ARC!
September 6, 2025
Tempting the Goalie is the fifth and final book in RC Stephens’ Riverside U series and follows childhood best friends Isabelle and Luc. When Luc finds himself in a bit of a situation and needs to repair his image, he asks his best friend Isabelle to help. Isabelle agrees to be his fake girlfriend but asks for his help in return but what she asks for has the potential to change everything.
Isabelle asks for help to find her sexual confidence and given the situation Luc found himself in (ie needing an image repair) she figured it would be an easy yes but it’s not. Luc hesitates because agreeing to this plan changes everything and he knows he can’t give her what she wants but he can’t say no. Luc and Isabelle cross the line from friends to so much more but it isn’t easy. Luc and Isabelle both carry baggage and they have to work through those obstacles before they can see what the other sees in them.
I enjoyed how this book wrapped up the series nicely and had a great setup for the new series. And since the new series will involve Isabelle’s older brothers we will hopefully get lots of updates on Luc, Isabelle and the rest of the Riverside U couples.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author and @greyspromo for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
Isabelle asks for help to find her sexual confidence and given the situation Luc found himself in (ie needing an image repair) she figured it would be an easy yes but it’s not. Luc hesitates because agreeing to this plan changes everything and he knows he can’t give her what she wants but he can’t say no. Luc and Isabelle cross the line from friends to so much more but it isn’t easy. Luc and Isabelle both carry baggage and they have to work through those obstacles before they can see what the other sees in them.
I enjoyed how this book wrapped up the series nicely and had a great setup for the new series. And since the new series will involve Isabelle’s older brothers we will hopefully get lots of updates on Luc, Isabelle and the rest of the Riverside U couples.
Thank you @rc_stephens_author and @greyspromo for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
September 6, 2025
4.4 ⭐
Absolutely adorable. Honestly, I couldn’t put this book down—it was so addictive!
Luc and Izzy’s story gave me everything I love about friends-to-lovers: the tension, the pining, the “we’ve been in love forever but didn’t say it” energy, and finally, the sweet payoff. Luc had that cocky, charming hockey swagger, but the way he softened and showed his vulnerable side around Izzy? Ugh, my heart. And Izzy—sweet, loyal, bookish Izzy—was the perfect calm to his chaos. Together, they just clicked.
What really stood out to me was how natural their connection felt. Their history, their banter, the way they just got each other—it all made me root for them from the very first page. And the fact that there was no unnecessary third-act breakup? Bless. The drama was there, but never at the cost of their love story.
Oh, and the spice? Perfection. Their chemistry jumped off the page, both emotionally and physically. Add in the family dynamics, small-town vibes, and the way their friends/family weren’t even surprised when they finally got together—it made the romance feel even more wholesome and right.
A perfect friends-to-lovers, hockey romance that will melt your heart and make you swoon. Absolutely recommend! 💙🏒✨
Absolutely adorable. Honestly, I couldn’t put this book down—it was so addictive!
Luc and Izzy’s story gave me everything I love about friends-to-lovers: the tension, the pining, the “we’ve been in love forever but didn’t say it” energy, and finally, the sweet payoff. Luc had that cocky, charming hockey swagger, but the way he softened and showed his vulnerable side around Izzy? Ugh, my heart. And Izzy—sweet, loyal, bookish Izzy—was the perfect calm to his chaos. Together, they just clicked.
What really stood out to me was how natural their connection felt. Their history, their banter, the way they just got each other—it all made me root for them from the very first page. And the fact that there was no unnecessary third-act breakup? Bless. The drama was there, but never at the cost of their love story.
Oh, and the spice? Perfection. Their chemistry jumped off the page, both emotionally and physically. Add in the family dynamics, small-town vibes, and the way their friends/family weren’t even surprised when they finally got together—it made the romance feel even more wholesome and right.
A perfect friends-to-lovers, hockey romance that will melt your heart and make you swoon. Absolutely recommend! 💙🏒✨
September 10, 2025
I have enjoyed this series and I have become a sucker for the goalie stories.
Luc is a hockey goalie and a playboy on campus, but when a steamy threesome goes viral, it’s time to clean up his act! And where does he turn, to his best friend and good girl, Izzy. Izzy just found out recently that her boyfriend has been cheating and they broke up, but he never told her. Now she wants some bedroom “lessons” and since Luc needs a girlfriend to help his image she figures it’s the perfect trade.
Izzy has always wanted marriage, the white picket fence and a big family. Luc, he doesn’t want all of that. He didn’t have the best childhood so he doesn’t really believe in love and the happy love. But with Isabelle (he calls her this because it gets her hot) things are different. They have always been best friends. They GET each other and she accepts him. And the more time they are together and the more they explore sexually, the deeper the feelings go.
This story was sweet, it was SPICY, and it had some heartfelt moments. And man Luc has a dirty mouth on him that will have you blushing, but also have you swooning with his sweet side. These two were just meant to be, she was the one to tame down his wild side and he was the one to bring out her confident side.
Luc is a hockey goalie and a playboy on campus, but when a steamy threesome goes viral, it’s time to clean up his act! And where does he turn, to his best friend and good girl, Izzy. Izzy just found out recently that her boyfriend has been cheating and they broke up, but he never told her. Now she wants some bedroom “lessons” and since Luc needs a girlfriend to help his image she figures it’s the perfect trade.
Izzy has always wanted marriage, the white picket fence and a big family. Luc, he doesn’t want all of that. He didn’t have the best childhood so he doesn’t really believe in love and the happy love. But with Isabelle (he calls her this because it gets her hot) things are different. They have always been best friends. They GET each other and she accepts him. And the more time they are together and the more they explore sexually, the deeper the feelings go.
This story was sweet, it was SPICY, and it had some heartfelt moments. And man Luc has a dirty mouth on him that will have you blushing, but also have you swooning with his sweet side. These two were just meant to be, she was the one to tame down his wild side and he was the one to bring out her confident side.
September 11, 2025
I loved Izzy. She was my type of girl. She and Luc have been best friends since childhood and always been there through the hard times. Now they in college and Izzy is your typical hard working student and Luc, sorry to say typical jock. He is getting bored with his sex life, so he decides to add threesomes…
And that did not go well for him. Now he is in a situation that needs his best friend, Izzy, pretending to be his girlfriend, trying to make him seem like a stable guy.
I liked the fact that Izzy didn’t judge him for being who he was. And she knew what she wanted. A boyfriend who could help her out in the bedroom… And who better than her best friend, the guy she trusts completely.
What these two didn’t know, is that both of them have been in love with each other since forever. They just didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Luc is a completely different person with Izzy, he is sweet, protective and caring. These two are definitely so good for each other. He brings the fun side and she brings the calmness… love it… 😊
This story started out as a friendship, and it continued too so much more.
Loved the characters and loved their story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
And that did not go well for him. Now he is in a situation that needs his best friend, Izzy, pretending to be his girlfriend, trying to make him seem like a stable guy.
I liked the fact that Izzy didn’t judge him for being who he was. And she knew what she wanted. A boyfriend who could help her out in the bedroom… And who better than her best friend, the guy she trusts completely.
What these two didn’t know, is that both of them have been in love with each other since forever. They just didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Luc is a completely different person with Izzy, he is sweet, protective and caring. These two are definitely so good for each other. He brings the fun side and she brings the calmness… love it… 😊
This story started out as a friendship, and it continued too so much more.
Loved the characters and loved their story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
September 20, 2025
🖤 Hockey Romance
🖤 Fake Dating
🖤 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
🖤 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Found Family
Childhood best friends that have been through so much together. Luc and Izzy grew up next door and did everything together as their moms were best friends. They share a special trauma bond that no child should go through, Luc lost his mom in a car accident and Izzy’s mom abandoned her family after Luc’s mom death. Their grief only made them closer and stronger and they both would do anything to protect each other. Luc has been getting a rep for being a playboy and needs to fix his image asap, so he does the one thing he never thought he would do… claim Izzy as his girlfriend. Of course Izzy would play along as his fake girlfriend, however she has her own terms… spicy lesson. This friends to lovers story is sweet and emotional as Luc and Izzy have to make some tough decisions that will impact their future.
Perfect way to end the Riverside U series. I can’t wait to read Elyna and Phoenix’s story in the new small town series. I really hope each brother gets their book.
Thank you R.C. Stephens and Grey’s Promo for this ARC.
✨I received this book as an ARC for free in exchange for an honest review✨
🖤 Fake Dating
🖤 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
🖤 Reformed Playboy
🖤 Found Family
Childhood best friends that have been through so much together. Luc and Izzy grew up next door and did everything together as their moms were best friends. They share a special trauma bond that no child should go through, Luc lost his mom in a car accident and Izzy’s mom abandoned her family after Luc’s mom death. Their grief only made them closer and stronger and they both would do anything to protect each other. Luc has been getting a rep for being a playboy and needs to fix his image asap, so he does the one thing he never thought he would do… claim Izzy as his girlfriend. Of course Izzy would play along as his fake girlfriend, however she has her own terms… spicy lesson. This friends to lovers story is sweet and emotional as Luc and Izzy have to make some tough decisions that will impact their future.
Perfect way to end the Riverside U series. I can’t wait to read Elyna and Phoenix’s story in the new small town series. I really hope each brother gets their book.
Thank you R.C. Stephens and Grey’s Promo for this ARC.
✨I received this book as an ARC for free in exchange for an honest review✨
September 5, 2025
Luc Chabot is the hockey goalie for Riverside U. He is a hockey god who can get any girl(s) he wants. Luc gets in trouble with his hockey coaches and needs to clean up his image a bit. The coaches are tired of Luc getting into trouble across campus with all the girls on campus. Luc has an older sister who he and Izzy are close with.
Isabella (Izzy) - is a shy book nerd. She is going for her child psychology degree. She wants to help children who have or are going through trama and hope they can become thriving adults. Recently she was dating a hockey player West Knight for the past 2 yrs, but found out through social media he is cheating on her! He never called her or anything.
When Izzy & Luc were younger his mother died. Her mother left as she didn't want to be without her best friend. Izzy grew up with her father and 4 brother's. Izzy and Luc have always been very close friends since they were 5yrs old. They have never crossed that friend line. But, now that Luc needs to clean up his image with his coaches he asks Izzy to be his girlfriend so he can be the man his
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest book review.
Isabella (Izzy) - is a shy book nerd. She is going for her child psychology degree. She wants to help children who have or are going through trama and hope they can become thriving adults. Recently she was dating a hockey player West Knight for the past 2 yrs, but found out through social media he is cheating on her! He never called her or anything.
When Izzy & Luc were younger his mother died. Her mother left as she didn't want to be without her best friend. Izzy grew up with her father and 4 brother's. Izzy and Luc have always been very close friends since they were 5yrs old. They have never crossed that friend line. But, now that Luc needs to clean up his image with his coaches he asks Izzy to be his girlfriend so he can be the man his
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest book review.
September 10, 2025
Luc gets himself in trouble when his private escapades hit the internet. NHL teams are starting to question his focus and could potentially cost him a contract. To help clean up his image, he turns to his best friend since childhood to be his fake girlfriend. Isabelle agrees, but with a catch. He needs to teach her how to keep a man since her last boyfriend cheated on her. He reluctantly agrees as long as neither of them falls in love, but will that promise last?
These two are adorable. The spice was off the charts, but I liked how they acted and talked like childhood friends. They were open and honest and even when they weren’t, they pulled it out of each other. Unraveling the reasons why they became best friends helps you root for them. They also both had great personal growth which was great to see.
This was my first book by this author and I will be reading more. The writing style was very simple and the story was interesting. I am especially excited for the new series because this book sets it up perfectly and leaves you wanting more. 5/5⭐️5/5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this book.
These two are adorable. The spice was off the charts, but I liked how they acted and talked like childhood friends. They were open and honest and even when they weren’t, they pulled it out of each other. Unraveling the reasons why they became best friends helps you root for them. They also both had great personal growth which was great to see.
This was my first book by this author and I will be reading more. The writing style was very simple and the story was interesting. I am especially excited for the new series because this book sets it up perfectly and leaves you wanting more. 5/5⭐️5/5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this book.
September 16, 2025
Wow….R.C. Stephens continues to write this series so seamlessly. I thought it was going to go one way and much to my surprise and delight it went another way.
The story of Luc and Izzy, best friends since childhood, know everything about each other and despite underlying feelings, they’ve never crossed that line. Now Seniors in college, they are both in tough spots and as usual, they are there for each other.
An unusual situationship comes to pass between the two which flushes out how much they truly care about each other, as well as desire to be more than friends.
Tropes:
-Friends since Childhood
-Bookworm and Playboy Hockey player
-Found family
-Image overhaul vs. Self confidence boost
-Commitment phobic vs. Heart break and girlfriend doubts
-No 3rd act breakup.
I read this book in a day. I couldn’t put it down. As mentioned, I was pleasantly pleased with the story and really enjoyed how Luc (swoony) and Izzy’s story plays out. They bring out the best in each other. I love their banter and healthy communication.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions and R.C. Stephens for an ARC opportunity.
The story of Luc and Izzy, best friends since childhood, know everything about each other and despite underlying feelings, they’ve never crossed that line. Now Seniors in college, they are both in tough spots and as usual, they are there for each other.
An unusual situationship comes to pass between the two which flushes out how much they truly care about each other, as well as desire to be more than friends.
Tropes:
-Friends since Childhood
-Bookworm and Playboy Hockey player
-Found family
-Image overhaul vs. Self confidence boost
-Commitment phobic vs. Heart break and girlfriend doubts
-No 3rd act breakup.
I read this book in a day. I couldn’t put it down. As mentioned, I was pleasantly pleased with the story and really enjoyed how Luc (swoony) and Izzy’s story plays out. They bring out the best in each other. I love their banter and healthy communication.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions and R.C. Stephens for an ARC opportunity.
August 30, 2025
We're back in Riverside U, and I can't believe its almost over! It's time for the HEA of Goalie Luc and his best friend since forever, Isabelle. I have loved all the guys from this series, but this slow burn (they have been crushing since preteens!) is a winner. Izzy is reeling from a cheating ex following a long term relationship and Luc is a little lost in his playboy ways, or as he likes to call it, 'the hockey lifestyle'. He was never going to be the forever kind of guy and certainly did not want kids, Izzy on the other hand was crystal clear that's all she ever wanted. It's a stint at fake dating to help Luc's reputation that finally brings them together and when they finally explore that chemistry, it is explosive and once they start, they can't stop. It's beautiful to watch them grow even closer together - definitely the forever kind! Super spicy, because its Luc but excited we might meet them again in some later books!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
September 3, 2025
5⭐️ | 3.5🌶
From the very first page, Tempting the Goalie swept me off my feet. The plot is strong, compelling, and infused with that addictive pull you only get from friends-to-lovers stories done right. Luc and Izzy’s relationship is refreshingly grounded—rooted in friendship, overflowing with honest communication, and layered with real emotion.
The spicy scenes? Hot doesn’t even begin to cover it. There were plenty of them, and I loved every single one. The balance between playful and passionate had me rooting for them all the way.
The side characters were just as memorable—Izzy’s girlfriends brought the perfect mix of fun and loyalty, while her overprotective brothers stole my heart. They were adorable to watch and added rich, grounding texture to the story.
Every time Luc calls Isabelle “Mon coeur”, my heart melts. As someone with a French SO, those moments felt especially close to my own heart—so tender and meaningful.
Overall, Tempting the Goalie was such a fun, joyous, and deeply satisfying read. It was everything I wanted and more.
From the very first page, Tempting the Goalie swept me off my feet. The plot is strong, compelling, and infused with that addictive pull you only get from friends-to-lovers stories done right. Luc and Izzy’s relationship is refreshingly grounded—rooted in friendship, overflowing with honest communication, and layered with real emotion.
The spicy scenes? Hot doesn’t even begin to cover it. There were plenty of them, and I loved every single one. The balance between playful and passionate had me rooting for them all the way.
The side characters were just as memorable—Izzy’s girlfriends brought the perfect mix of fun and loyalty, while her overprotective brothers stole my heart. They were adorable to watch and added rich, grounding texture to the story.
Every time Luc calls Isabelle “Mon coeur”, my heart melts. As someone with a French SO, those moments felt especially close to my own heart—so tender and meaningful.
Overall, Tempting the Goalie was such a fun, joyous, and deeply satisfying read. It was everything I wanted and more.
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