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Golden Hour
Not yet published
Expected 26 Mar 26Recently dismissed from the NBA and drowning in secrets, Colson Burke runs to his lake house in search of peace, quiet, and somewhere to hide after his career implodes.
What he gets is Sadie Becker.
Sadie runs the recreation center next door and is relentlessly cheerful and impossible to ignore. She has no problem calling out the grump who moved in beside her… even as she starts to see the hurt he’s trying so hard to keep buried. She knows what it’s like to lose the future you thought was certain.
What begins as irritation turns into a push and pull neither of them planned for—and something neither of them want to lose.
Golden Hour is a grumpy-sunshine sports romance about the things that break us and the people who put us back together.
What he gets is Sadie Becker.
Sadie runs the recreation center next door and is relentlessly cheerful and impossible to ignore. She has no problem calling out the grump who moved in beside her… even as she starts to see the hurt he’s trying so hard to keep buried. She knows what it’s like to lose the future you thought was certain.
What begins as irritation turns into a push and pull neither of them planned for—and something neither of them want to lose.
Golden Hour is a grumpy-sunshine sports romance about the things that break us and the people who put us back together.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 26, 2026
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Rachel LaBerge for the ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Where the light softens, the heart remembers
Some books do not arrive with noise. They slip in quietly, almost tenderly, and before it becomes clear what they are doing, they have already settled somewhere deep. 'Golden Hour' by Rachel LaBerge is that kind of story.
From the first pages, this book carries a soft, almost fragile atmosphere. There is warmth in it, but also longing. A quiet ache moves beneath the surface of the narrative, giving each moment a reflective weight. The story unfolds with patience, allowing emotions to rise slowly and naturally, and that slower rhythm fits the heart of this novel beautifully.
What gives this story its strength is the emotional and psychological depth woven through it. These characters are not simply moving from one moment to the next. They are carrying the past with them, shaped by choices, grief, memory, and the lingering pull of everything left unresolved. That inner tension is never forced. Instead, it is built carefully, which makes the emotional impact feel all the more genuine.
The structure of the book supports that beautifully. Rachel LaBerge gives the story room to breathe, and because of that, the quieter moments land just as powerfully as the more emotionally charged ones. There is a tenderness to the writing, but never at the expense of depth. Each layer adds a little more weight, a little more intimacy, until the story begins to feel almost cinematic in the way it settles around the reader.
The pacing may feel gentle, but it never feels empty. It creates space for reflection, for connection, and for the emotional shifts within the characters to truly matter. That is where this book found its strength for me. It does not rush to be unforgettable. It simply becomes unforgettable by the way it lets its emotions linger.
'Golden Hour' is a story wrapped in warmth, memory, and quiet heartache. One that glows softly on the page, then leaves behind something harder to name once the final chapter is over.
Some stories fade when they end. This one stays in the light a little longer.
second chance | emotional healing | past secrets | reflective journey | character driven | quiet romance
Where the light softens, the heart remembers
Some books do not arrive with noise. They slip in quietly, almost tenderly, and before it becomes clear what they are doing, they have already settled somewhere deep. 'Golden Hour' by Rachel LaBerge is that kind of story.
From the first pages, this book carries a soft, almost fragile atmosphere. There is warmth in it, but also longing. A quiet ache moves beneath the surface of the narrative, giving each moment a reflective weight. The story unfolds with patience, allowing emotions to rise slowly and naturally, and that slower rhythm fits the heart of this novel beautifully.
What gives this story its strength is the emotional and psychological depth woven through it. These characters are not simply moving from one moment to the next. They are carrying the past with them, shaped by choices, grief, memory, and the lingering pull of everything left unresolved. That inner tension is never forced. Instead, it is built carefully, which makes the emotional impact feel all the more genuine.
The structure of the book supports that beautifully. Rachel LaBerge gives the story room to breathe, and because of that, the quieter moments land just as powerfully as the more emotionally charged ones. There is a tenderness to the writing, but never at the expense of depth. Each layer adds a little more weight, a little more intimacy, until the story begins to feel almost cinematic in the way it settles around the reader.
The pacing may feel gentle, but it never feels empty. It creates space for reflection, for connection, and for the emotional shifts within the characters to truly matter. That is where this book found its strength for me. It does not rush to be unforgettable. It simply becomes unforgettable by the way it lets its emotions linger.
'Golden Hour' is a story wrapped in warmth, memory, and quiet heartache. One that glows softly on the page, then leaves behind something harder to name once the final chapter is over.
Some stories fade when they end. This one stays in the light a little longer.
second chance | emotional healing | past secrets | reflective journey | character driven | quiet romance
March 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a heartfelt read. I always love when two characters are working through their own separate struggles while also learning how to lean on each other, and this story captured that so well.
Sadie was easily my favorite part of this book. She might be one of my favorite FMCs I’ve read in a while because it was so rewarding to watch her open up, grow more confident, and really start to flourish. Her journey felt genuine, and I loved seeing how she also helped Colson recognize the best parts of himself. Their connection felt natural, and together they created a story that was emotional, comforting, and easy to get invested in.
Sidenote: now I feel like I need something cherry-flavored to drink today because the Cherry Pit is honestly the cutest idea.
Such a heartfelt read. I always love when two characters are working through their own separate struggles while also learning how to lean on each other, and this story captured that so well.
Sadie was easily my favorite part of this book. She might be one of my favorite FMCs I’ve read in a while because it was so rewarding to watch her open up, grow more confident, and really start to flourish. Her journey felt genuine, and I loved seeing how she also helped Colson recognize the best parts of himself. Their connection felt natural, and together they created a story that was emotional, comforting, and easy to get invested in.
Sidenote: now I feel like I need something cherry-flavored to drink today because the Cherry Pit is honestly the cutest idea.
March 8, 2026
Golden Hour gave me all the feels.
Sunsets, cherries, protection and comfort, a loyal and hilarious best friend, basketball, finding your way back to yourself, small town vibes, a shower that made my knees wobble… I loved it allllll.
Sunsets, cherries, protection and comfort, a loyal and hilarious best friend, basketball, finding your way back to yourself, small town vibes, a shower that made my knees wobble… I loved it allllll.
March 6, 2026
ARC Review!
Book: Golden Hour by Rachel LaBerge
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏀Sports Romance (both are athletes)
☀️Small Town
🏀Slow burn
☀️Spicy
🏀Hurt/Comfort
☀️No third-act breakup
My thoughts:
This book is a reason why grumpy x sunshine will always be one of my favorite romance tropes! The FMC Sadie is one of the most genuine and loving characters I have ever read about. Even with hardships that would bring any person down she does not let those moments define her and continues looking at life with a positive attitude and a beaming smile. She was just what the MMC Colson needed as our guy was going through a lot and forgot how good life could be. His grief and anxiety was portray so well and all Sadie had to do was to be that person in his corner. By seeing her light and her kindness from the very beginning, Colson fell just that much harder.
I love the small town aspect of the story! Golden Harbor is filled with so much love among the locals and for anyone who needed a break from their life (cough, Colson, cough). We see this through Sadies’ friendships and I loved her relationship with her protective best friend who made sure Sadie was not taking any crap from people who tried to dim her light. We also see this through the Rec center where Sadie taught basketball to kids!
Sadie and Colson’s relationship started out slow, but in these slow moments we were able to see the unwavering support the two had for each other. Their small, but intimate moments allowed their relationship to grow stronger and the two knew immediately that they had found the right person.
So when you need a FMC who is literally sunshine and helps a grumpy MMC find himself again, look for the sunset with Golden Harbor!
Book: Golden Hour by Rachel LaBerge
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏀Sports Romance (both are athletes)
☀️Small Town
🏀Slow burn
☀️Spicy
🏀Hurt/Comfort
☀️No third-act breakup
My thoughts:
This book is a reason why grumpy x sunshine will always be one of my favorite romance tropes! The FMC Sadie is one of the most genuine and loving characters I have ever read about. Even with hardships that would bring any person down she does not let those moments define her and continues looking at life with a positive attitude and a beaming smile. She was just what the MMC Colson needed as our guy was going through a lot and forgot how good life could be. His grief and anxiety was portray so well and all Sadie had to do was to be that person in his corner. By seeing her light and her kindness from the very beginning, Colson fell just that much harder.
I love the small town aspect of the story! Golden Harbor is filled with so much love among the locals and for anyone who needed a break from their life (cough, Colson, cough). We see this through Sadies’ friendships and I loved her relationship with her protective best friend who made sure Sadie was not taking any crap from people who tried to dim her light. We also see this through the Rec center where Sadie taught basketball to kids!
Sadie and Colson’s relationship started out slow, but in these slow moments we were able to see the unwavering support the two had for each other. Their small, but intimate moments allowed their relationship to grow stronger and the two knew immediately that they had found the right person.
So when you need a FMC who is literally sunshine and helps a grumpy MMC find himself again, look for the sunset with Golden Harbor!
March 15, 2026
Costal small-town summer vibes? Are you freaking kidding me??? Immediately 5 stars. I mean just the cutest little cheesy sports-adjacent romance (w/ some spice obviously). I don’t know how else to describe it, but reading it just brings you some joy.
10/10 recommend (I’ve already told multiple people to move it to the top of their TBR)
10/10 recommend (I’ve already told multiple people to move it to the top of their TBR)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think Rachel LaBerge gets better with every book she writes. This book had me swooning so hard and I just fell in love with these characters. This story had me laughing, smiling, kicking my legs from swooning and then left me with a beautiful ending! There are a few emotional parts in the story but it just made these character even better because of it.
Colson is a basketball player that finds himself in trouble after a heated argument at a game so he ends up leaving Chicago to go to a small town in Michigan. He just wants to be by himself and be grumpy. LOL...But that's not going to happen in this town.
Sadie runs a recreation center and helps coach kids to play basketball. When one of the kids accidentally hits the neighbors car she goes over to apologize only to come face to face with Colson. He's broody as all get out but you can tell these two are going to have great chemistry.
As these two start helping these kids play ball they will also start to realize they may have feeling brewing between them. I just loved everything about this story. I loved how Sadie was independent and resilient. Colson stands up for the things he believes in and I feel like that made him a better person. These two together were the perfect match.
You will also enjoy how the community comes together for each other as well. I loved getting to know this town and her friends. I also loved all the little things they did together outside of the recreational center. I wish our small town did those kind of things. If you want a cozy book to curl up with that will take your mind away from life for awhile I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
Thank you Rachel LaBerge for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Colson is a basketball player that finds himself in trouble after a heated argument at a game so he ends up leaving Chicago to go to a small town in Michigan. He just wants to be by himself and be grumpy. LOL...But that's not going to happen in this town.
Sadie runs a recreation center and helps coach kids to play basketball. When one of the kids accidentally hits the neighbors car she goes over to apologize only to come face to face with Colson. He's broody as all get out but you can tell these two are going to have great chemistry.
As these two start helping these kids play ball they will also start to realize they may have feeling brewing between them. I just loved everything about this story. I loved how Sadie was independent and resilient. Colson stands up for the things he believes in and I feel like that made him a better person. These two together were the perfect match.
You will also enjoy how the community comes together for each other as well. I loved getting to know this town and her friends. I also loved all the little things they did together outside of the recreational center. I wish our small town did those kind of things. If you want a cozy book to curl up with that will take your mind away from life for awhile I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
Thank you Rachel LaBerge for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review: Golden Hour
[I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author. This review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion]
THE WHAT
We follow Colin, a NBA player who is suspended from his team after a public outburst. Needing space and distance from the spotlight, he retreats to the quiet town of Golden Harbour. There he meets Sadie, a fellow basketball lover who runs the rec centre next door to his home. Their unexpected connection turns into something deeper, pushing both of them to grow, both personally and professionally.
THE VIBE
Slow burn, small town, basketball romance, grumpy MMC, sports romance, grumpy x sunshine, spicy, cozy.
THE HOW
The story is told through a dual POV. The author balances the romance with heavier themes really well. The basketball element added a connective layer between the characters without overpowering the story.
THE HIT
I really appreciated the character growth. Both characters had to confront grief, toxic dynamics, and difficult professional situations, and you could actually see them evolve through the story. It wasn’t just a romance for the sake of romance. There were layers to it, which made the relationship feel more genuine.
THE MISS
At times I wished certain emotional moments were explored just a bit deeper. Some of the heavier themes especially around their past toxic relationships, I was curious to know more about.
THE REC:
If you like small-town romances with sports elements, this is a great read. Bonus points if you’re a basketball fan.
THE OVERALL: Overall, I would rate this book as follows:
⭐️Overall Rating: 4/5
🔥Spice Rating : 3/5
QOTD: Do you like sports romances, or do you usually skip them? 🏀
[I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author. This review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion]
THE WHAT
We follow Colin, a NBA player who is suspended from his team after a public outburst. Needing space and distance from the spotlight, he retreats to the quiet town of Golden Harbour. There he meets Sadie, a fellow basketball lover who runs the rec centre next door to his home. Their unexpected connection turns into something deeper, pushing both of them to grow, both personally and professionally.
THE VIBE
Slow burn, small town, basketball romance, grumpy MMC, sports romance, grumpy x sunshine, spicy, cozy.
THE HOW
The story is told through a dual POV. The author balances the romance with heavier themes really well. The basketball element added a connective layer between the characters without overpowering the story.
THE HIT
I really appreciated the character growth. Both characters had to confront grief, toxic dynamics, and difficult professional situations, and you could actually see them evolve through the story. It wasn’t just a romance for the sake of romance. There were layers to it, which made the relationship feel more genuine.
THE MISS
At times I wished certain emotional moments were explored just a bit deeper. Some of the heavier themes especially around their past toxic relationships, I was curious to know more about.
THE REC:
If you like small-town romances with sports elements, this is a great read. Bonus points if you’re a basketball fan.
THE OVERALL: Overall, I would rate this book as follows:
⭐️Overall Rating: 4/5
🔥Spice Rating : 3/5
QOTD: Do you like sports romances, or do you usually skip them? 🏀
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was my first book by Rachel and I really enjoyed it! Sadie really was sunshine personified, but she definitely still had her struggles. It was great to see her find herself again during this story after being hurt by her ex. I loved that she made a list of the things she wanted to do during the summer so that she would always remember who she wanted to be and how she wanted to live. It was also great seeing her sunshine ways bring out a new side of Colson. Colson was a bit grumpy at the start of the book because he had also just been through a lot in his life. But, once he met Sadie, it was game over! He still had times when he was a bit down and out, but I loved watching Sadie help him through that. Colson also eventually realized that he was the storm clouds to Sadie’s sunshine, and there couldn’t be one without the other. I loved that Sadie and Colson were both athletes and could bond over their love of basketball. They both had injuries that affected their basketball careers, and while that was hard on them, it was one more thing for them to bond over and bring them closer together. Watching Sadie and Colson get closer and closer during this story was amazing, and I love that when they had a slight hiccup, they talked it through and figured things out together so they could get through it. I’m excited to see if Rachel will give us more from Golden Harbor, and I will definitely be reading more of Rachel’s books in the future!
Thank you, Rachel, for providing me with an ARC!
Thank you, Rachel, for providing me with an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another great book by Rachel LaBerge!
This book is about two people trying to find themselves, and they do, but they also find each other. Colson blew up at a coach and now hiding out from the public and his ruined reputation. Unsure if he would ever be able to continue to play in the NBA again. Leaving to a small town, he meets Sadie. Sadie is recovering from a broken engagement, one where her ex took all of her sunshine. Together (ans through the love of basketball and the pain of everything) they find themselves and each other.
This was a cute read and honestly perfect for the summer. A summer romance that leaves you feeling seen. With the perfect amount of feels and spice, this book is sure to heat things up. That is, if like the weather doesn’t already do that for you.
The only reason I took off a star is because somethings went down with her ex (a tantrum he came and had) and I just didn’t like it. But, it was important to the story and I totally get why it was in the book. It just wasn’t my favorite part. Everything else in this book was great and well, thats expected with Rachel’s writing. Great reads all around all the time!
So add this book to your tbr if you need a summer read or need another basketball player fictional boyfriend on your roster!
Spice Rating: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
🧡 Basketball Player Romance
🧡 Grumpy x Sunshine
🧡 Mental Health Rep
🧡 Finding Themselves Again
🧡 Small Town
🧡 Lots of Sunsets
There is a lot of talk about sunsets in this book, do you like sunsets or sunrises?
This book is about two people trying to find themselves, and they do, but they also find each other. Colson blew up at a coach and now hiding out from the public and his ruined reputation. Unsure if he would ever be able to continue to play in the NBA again. Leaving to a small town, he meets Sadie. Sadie is recovering from a broken engagement, one where her ex took all of her sunshine. Together (ans through the love of basketball and the pain of everything) they find themselves and each other.
This was a cute read and honestly perfect for the summer. A summer romance that leaves you feeling seen. With the perfect amount of feels and spice, this book is sure to heat things up. That is, if like the weather doesn’t already do that for you.
The only reason I took off a star is because somethings went down with her ex (a tantrum he came and had) and I just didn’t like it. But, it was important to the story and I totally get why it was in the book. It just wasn’t my favorite part. Everything else in this book was great and well, thats expected with Rachel’s writing. Great reads all around all the time!
So add this book to your tbr if you need a summer read or need another basketball player fictional boyfriend on your roster!
Spice Rating: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
🧡 Basketball Player Romance
🧡 Grumpy x Sunshine
🧡 Mental Health Rep
🧡 Finding Themselves Again
🧡 Small Town
🧡 Lots of Sunsets
There is a lot of talk about sunsets in this book, do you like sunsets or sunrises?
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75⭐
I'm so sad I didn't like this one more😭 I'd been counting down the days until Golden Hour landed on my kindle, and to have it just not be 100% for me is crushing haha. Buttttt it has Rachel's signature style that I love, so even if it didn't 100% hit I still enjoyed it!
I'm a sucker for Rachel's basketball romances! This is her second, and it's so nostalgic to be reading about this sport when my brothers and I played through grade school. I adored Sadie and Colson! Their banter was the cutest thing ever. And the nickname Colson gives her🥹🥹🥹 my heart just about melted. The storyline was super fun too; having it wrap around the rec center and the kids that played there made me love it even more!
In the end, it just comes down to not every book is for every reader. Either way, Rachel is still a favorite🤭 I am thrilled to have been able to be an early reader for this and I can't wait to see what Rachel writes next!
You'll like this if you like:
📖 grumpy X sunshine
📖 sports romance (basketball)
📖 small town
📖 dual POV
✨TW: this book contains cuss words and topics of grief, death of a parent, anxiety, depression, parental abandonment, sexual content, and cancer.
🎬 Sexual Content: NC-17: detailed and frequent on-page scenes (chp 23-24, 32-33, 36, 50, and 52). Not for under age 18.
🩸Violence: G: no real violence
💬 Language: frequent strong language (including f***); frequent sexual innuendos
I'm so sad I didn't like this one more😭 I'd been counting down the days until Golden Hour landed on my kindle, and to have it just not be 100% for me is crushing haha. Buttttt it has Rachel's signature style that I love, so even if it didn't 100% hit I still enjoyed it!
I'm a sucker for Rachel's basketball romances! This is her second, and it's so nostalgic to be reading about this sport when my brothers and I played through grade school. I adored Sadie and Colson! Their banter was the cutest thing ever. And the nickname Colson gives her🥹🥹🥹 my heart just about melted. The storyline was super fun too; having it wrap around the rec center and the kids that played there made me love it even more!
In the end, it just comes down to not every book is for every reader. Either way, Rachel is still a favorite🤭 I am thrilled to have been able to be an early reader for this and I can't wait to see what Rachel writes next!
You'll like this if you like:
📖 grumpy X sunshine
📖 sports romance (basketball)
📖 small town
📖 dual POV
✨TW: this book contains cuss words and topics of grief, death of a parent, anxiety, depression, parental abandonment, sexual content, and cancer.
🎬 Sexual Content: NC-17: detailed and frequent on-page scenes (chp 23-24, 32-33, 36, 50, and 52). Not for under age 18.
🩸Violence: G: no real violence
💬 Language: frequent strong language (including f***); frequent sexual innuendos
Review of advance copy
Such a cute and heartwarming book! I really loved the dynamic between Colson and Sadie—it’s one of my favorite types of pairings. Colson with his grumpy, guarded attitude and Sadie coming in like a burst of sunshine was such a perfect contrast. Their personalities balanced each other so well, and watching those two energies collide made the story really enjoyable.
Colson starts off very set in his ways, carrying his own struggles and emotional walls, and it was great to see how Sadie slowly works her way into his world. She doesn’t force anything or try to change him outright—she just shows up with her warmth, optimism, and steady support. Her brightness really brings out a softer side of Colson that you can tell has been hidden for a long time.
What I loved most was the journey Colson goes through throughout the book. Seeing him grow, open up, and allow himself to accept the happiness and care that Sadie offers was really touching. Sadie being there for him through it all—supporting him, encouraging him, and believing in him even when he struggles to believe in himself—made their relationship feel genuine and heartfelt.
Together they are absolutely adorable. Their banter, their little moments of connection, and the way their relationship grows over time made this such a fun and comforting read. It’s one of those stories that leaves you smiling because the characters just fit so perfectly together.
Colson starts off very set in his ways, carrying his own struggles and emotional walls, and it was great to see how Sadie slowly works her way into his world. She doesn’t force anything or try to change him outright—she just shows up with her warmth, optimism, and steady support. Her brightness really brings out a softer side of Colson that you can tell has been hidden for a long time.
What I loved most was the journey Colson goes through throughout the book. Seeing him grow, open up, and allow himself to accept the happiness and care that Sadie offers was really touching. Sadie being there for him through it all—supporting him, encouraging him, and believing in him even when he struggles to believe in himself—made their relationship feel genuine and heartfelt.
Together they are absolutely adorable. Their banter, their little moments of connection, and the way their relationship grows over time made this such a fun and comforting read. It’s one of those stories that leaves you smiling because the characters just fit so perfectly together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was not what I expected. I went into it pretty much blind, and once I started reading I quickly realized it deals a lot with grief.
Colson, the MMC, lost his mother a few months earlier and is still really struggling with her passing. On top of that, something happened during one of his NBA games that has him questioning both his future and his career. Looking for some space, he heads to Golden Harbor and stays in the house he bought for his mom before she passed. His plan is simple: keep to himself, process everything, and figure out what comes next.
But that plan quickly changes when he meets Sadie, the coach at the rec center next door.
Sadie is the total sunshine to Colson’s grumpy, closed off personality. What I really liked about her is that she’s interested in Colson not because he’s an NBA player, but because she sees the person behind the fame. She eventually convinces him to help coach the kids’ basketball team, and that’s where things start to shift for him.
As they spend more time together, they slowly start opening up and leaning on each other. What begins as friendship and support gradually turns into something deeper, with sparks neither of them really expected.
Overall, this was such a sweet and emotional read. I especially connected with Colson’s grief over losing his mother, and that made parts of the story hit a little harder for me personally. Watching him slowly heal and open himself up again was really touching.
If you like:
grumpy x sunshine ☀️
sports romance 🏀
small town vibes
emotional healing stories
then you’ll probably enjoy this one.
Colson, the MMC, lost his mother a few months earlier and is still really struggling with her passing. On top of that, something happened during one of his NBA games that has him questioning both his future and his career. Looking for some space, he heads to Golden Harbor and stays in the house he bought for his mom before she passed. His plan is simple: keep to himself, process everything, and figure out what comes next.
But that plan quickly changes when he meets Sadie, the coach at the rec center next door.
Sadie is the total sunshine to Colson’s grumpy, closed off personality. What I really liked about her is that she’s interested in Colson not because he’s an NBA player, but because she sees the person behind the fame. She eventually convinces him to help coach the kids’ basketball team, and that’s where things start to shift for him.
As they spend more time together, they slowly start opening up and leaning on each other. What begins as friendship and support gradually turns into something deeper, with sparks neither of them really expected.
Overall, this was such a sweet and emotional read. I especially connected with Colson’s grief over losing his mother, and that made parts of the story hit a little harder for me personally. Watching him slowly heal and open himself up again was really touching.
If you like:
grumpy x sunshine ☀️
sports romance 🏀
small town vibes
emotional healing stories
then you’ll probably enjoy this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Colson is grieving the loss of his mother while also struggling with the fallout from an altercation with his NBA coach. He flees to the town he used to visit with his mom and to the house he bought for her. He’s hoping for a quiet summer where he can continue grieving and hide from the press.
But that doesn’t happen when he meets bubbly, sunshine-filled Sadie. She works at the local rec center in her small town and coaches basketball for kids. She keeps crossing paths with the reclusive Colson. Sadie is well loved in Golden Harbor, Michigan, by her friends, family, and community.
Can Colson continue to hide away in his mom’s house, or will Sadie help him navigate his grief and NBA struggles? Can they protect their hearts over the summer?
Colson and Sadie’s story is beautiful and full of self-discovery and emotional growth. Colson is a true grumpy character, while Sadie radiates sunshine and is the embodiment of warmth and light. This trope was spot on, especially with the mental health representation. I truly grieved with Colson as he reflected on his relationship with his mom. I admired Sadie so much and everything she has overcome in her life—yet she still manages to see the good in so many things and people.
This was a quick, enjoyable read filled with emotion, and I’m excited to read more from Rachel LaBerge!
But that doesn’t happen when he meets bubbly, sunshine-filled Sadie. She works at the local rec center in her small town and coaches basketball for kids. She keeps crossing paths with the reclusive Colson. Sadie is well loved in Golden Harbor, Michigan, by her friends, family, and community.
Can Colson continue to hide away in his mom’s house, or will Sadie help him navigate his grief and NBA struggles? Can they protect their hearts over the summer?
Colson and Sadie’s story is beautiful and full of self-discovery and emotional growth. Colson is a true grumpy character, while Sadie radiates sunshine and is the embodiment of warmth and light. This trope was spot on, especially with the mental health representation. I truly grieved with Colson as he reflected on his relationship with his mom. I admired Sadie so much and everything she has overcome in her life—yet she still manages to see the good in so many things and people.
This was a quick, enjoyable read filled with emotion, and I’m excited to read more from Rachel LaBerge!
March 6, 2026
This was such a sweet sunshine x grumpy romance book set in a small beach town in Michigan. While this book was sweet there was a lot of heavy emotional topics covered including loss of a parent, anxiety and panic attacks. I love how Rachel LaBerge keeps her characters so real.
Colson is reeling from the death of his mother and an altercation on the NBA court that gets him dismissed from his team. He retreats to his mothers beach house in Golden Harbor. He is a perpetual storm cloud with a permanent scowl fixed on his face until he meets Sadie who just happens to own the small rec center next door to him. Sadie hosts a summer program that focuses on basketball and Colson and her paths continue to cross until they are both seeking out each other. Sadie helps bring back Colsons light and he helps Sadie remember what love is all about.
The banter between Colson and Sadie is amazing but the deep conversations about life and their feelings was what made this book perfect. It's refreshing seeing characters who struggle with anxiety and depression and how they are able to overcome those obstacles. Really enjoyed everything about this book.
Favorite Quote:
"My sunshine girl."
Tropes:
-sports romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-small town
-mental health rep
-ARC READ. Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book for my honest review.
Colson is reeling from the death of his mother and an altercation on the NBA court that gets him dismissed from his team. He retreats to his mothers beach house in Golden Harbor. He is a perpetual storm cloud with a permanent scowl fixed on his face until he meets Sadie who just happens to own the small rec center next door to him. Sadie hosts a summer program that focuses on basketball and Colson and her paths continue to cross until they are both seeking out each other. Sadie helps bring back Colsons light and he helps Sadie remember what love is all about.
The banter between Colson and Sadie is amazing but the deep conversations about life and their feelings was what made this book perfect. It's refreshing seeing characters who struggle with anxiety and depression and how they are able to overcome those obstacles. Really enjoyed everything about this book.
Favorite Quote:
"My sunshine girl."
Tropes:
-sports romance
-grumpy x sunshine
-small town
-mental health rep
-ARC READ. Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I know I probably say this all the time when it comes to reading Rachel's books, but this one is without a doubt my favorite.
To start, the story is just so natural and so beautiful that you are along for the ride nicely tucked in. The world that these characters are in, is such a found family, small community, magical vibes that you just want to take a trip there. Of course theres sports and romance, but thats not my favorite part of the book. Its the characters. Its the way you can FEEL them. You feel everything with them. Sadie, my girl. She is just a hard working girlie who wants to do everything for everyone, but doesn't know how to do things for herself. I feel you girlie. ON SO MANY LEVELS. The way she finally feels like herself again with Colson, its what you want in a relationship. Now, my boy Colson. I messaged Rachel and actually told her how much I related to Colson. From his emotional baggage, his attitude and his demeanor, only someone who has gone through the same pain as he has can relate. You can feel everything that he is feeling, especially his grief. Grief... grief isn't something thay you can properly explain but once you feel it, you relate to it everywhere. Thank you for creating a story where you can feel and relate to characters in situations thay kight be different from yours, but can relate all the same.
To start, the story is just so natural and so beautiful that you are along for the ride nicely tucked in. The world that these characters are in, is such a found family, small community, magical vibes that you just want to take a trip there. Of course theres sports and romance, but thats not my favorite part of the book. Its the characters. Its the way you can FEEL them. You feel everything with them. Sadie, my girl. She is just a hard working girlie who wants to do everything for everyone, but doesn't know how to do things for herself. I feel you girlie. ON SO MANY LEVELS. The way she finally feels like herself again with Colson, its what you want in a relationship. Now, my boy Colson. I messaged Rachel and actually told her how much I related to Colson. From his emotional baggage, his attitude and his demeanor, only someone who has gone through the same pain as he has can relate. You can feel everything that he is feeling, especially his grief. Grief... grief isn't something thay you can properly explain but once you feel it, you relate to it everywhere. Thank you for creating a story where you can feel and relate to characters in situations thay kight be different from yours, but can relate all the same.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Colson are you a grump? Ahhhh...🍸. Where did your $$ come from?? Your mom hustled! Ahhhhh...🏀 bad boy. Is mom still around??
Sadie - summer camp counselor? Dad is a college 🏀 coach. Wonder if he was Colson's before he went pro? ☀️
Colson will you be chill or a d**k?
Sadie, you sound awesome! You get stuff done.
☕️ 🏀 👩👦😢
Kids pull at heartstrings with their innocence.
To-do list with a certain someone perhaps??
Nervous much?!?!?
Is she falling?
Cherry wine? 💭Didn't know that was a thing.
❓️🌅 👫 😍
Sitting in the silence is powerful.
⛈️ 🪣 🏠
Oh no!! The rec center!!
Small towns take care of their own.
💭I miss seeing fireflies at night. Reminds me of my grandparents land.
..."it feels so sweet and wholesome that my teeth should fall out."
The Basement connection, how cool.
"I swallow past the lump in my throat, it tastes like risk and feels like I'm about to crumble."
🔐
Blair Miller...From the Sidelines novel mention (I was an ARC reviewer for this novel and rated it 5 stars.)
Yah, a new Ember and Ashes facility! Blair, you continue to be a bad a$$ business woman.
There are moments in this book which feel like they progress slowly. I feel that is done with intention. The slower pace allows for reflection on the characters parts as well as the readers.
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Colson are you a grump? Ahhhh...🍸. Where did your $$ come from?? Your mom hustled! Ahhhhh...🏀 bad boy. Is mom still around??
Sadie - summer camp counselor? Dad is a college 🏀 coach. Wonder if he was Colson's before he went pro? ☀️
Colson will you be chill or a d**k?
Sadie, you sound awesome! You get stuff done.
☕️ 🏀 👩👦😢
Kids pull at heartstrings with their innocence.
To-do list with a certain someone perhaps??
Nervous much?!?!?
Is she falling?
Cherry wine? 💭Didn't know that was a thing.
❓️🌅 👫 😍
Sitting in the silence is powerful.
⛈️ 🪣 🏠
Oh no!! The rec center!!
Small towns take care of their own.
💭I miss seeing fireflies at night. Reminds me of my grandparents land.
..."it feels so sweet and wholesome that my teeth should fall out."
The Basement connection, how cool.
"I swallow past the lump in my throat, it tastes like risk and feels like I'm about to crumble."
🔐
Blair Miller...From the Sidelines novel mention (I was an ARC reviewer for this novel and rated it 5 stars.)
Yah, a new Ember and Ashes facility! Blair, you continue to be a bad a$$ business woman.
There are moments in this book which feel like they progress slowly. I feel that is done with intention. The slower pace allows for reflection on the characters parts as well as the readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I devoured this book in ONE sitting. This is a new author to me and once I saw the trope list for this book I had to read it.
With that being said, grumpy x sunshine is one of my favorite tropes in romance books. I absolutely loved how it was done in this book. Sometimes the grumpy can border mean or unlikable - but not with Colson. He remained likable and relatable throughout the entire book.
This book did have some heavy topics (death of parent/off page) but it was balanced with some really sweet moments as well.
Sadie was the perfect sunshine to Colson’s grumpy; without being over the top or ditzy. She also let him be who he while continuing to show up for him.
Their relationship was so sweet - and watching Colson’s walls come down around Sadie had me hooked. One of my favorite things in a book is to watching the slow burn pay off.
I also loved that being with Colson wasn’t Sadie’s entire personality. She just didn’t end up being a FMC who drops everything to be with a professional athlete or plays games or tricks to get their attention. I liked that she had her own story and journey through this book.
I will going back and reading everything this author has written and will continue to read what she puts out next.
With that being said, grumpy x sunshine is one of my favorite tropes in romance books. I absolutely loved how it was done in this book. Sometimes the grumpy can border mean or unlikable - but not with Colson. He remained likable and relatable throughout the entire book.
This book did have some heavy topics (death of parent/off page) but it was balanced with some really sweet moments as well.
Sadie was the perfect sunshine to Colson’s grumpy; without being over the top or ditzy. She also let him be who he while continuing to show up for him.
Their relationship was so sweet - and watching Colson’s walls come down around Sadie had me hooked. One of my favorite things in a book is to watching the slow burn pay off.
I also loved that being with Colson wasn’t Sadie’s entire personality. She just didn’t end up being a FMC who drops everything to be with a professional athlete or plays games or tricks to get their attention. I liked that she had her own story and journey through this book.
I will going back and reading everything this author has written and will continue to read what she puts out next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
*Baby, We’ll make it fit.*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Ahh I loved this. this was a sweet funny spicy sunshine small town girl / basketball camp coach x grumpy pro basketball player. It had such fun lol elements and there was a squealing kicking my feet moment that one of the other characters felt to which I absolutely loved. Both the characters had stories, background and struggles that they were working through. I loved reading about them growing individually and together. Obsessed with their relationship developing and the depth to it. I loved that they both had dreams and wants in life and they worked out how to make them work together, supporting each other through it. One part that stuck out to me which I loved so much was ‘protective without being possessive’ I love when the MMC knows that she has strength that he doesn’t need to go ‘alfa’ and step in, he just needs to let her know she’s not alone, she’s got this and he’s there for here.
KINDA SPOILER enjoyed that there wasn’t a third act breakup.
And then, I continue slowly, ‘he reached for my hand. Just… Took it. Like it made sense”
*Baby, We’ll make it fit.*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Ahh I loved this. this was a sweet funny spicy sunshine small town girl / basketball camp coach x grumpy pro basketball player. It had such fun lol elements and there was a squealing kicking my feet moment that one of the other characters felt to which I absolutely loved. Both the characters had stories, background and struggles that they were working through. I loved reading about them growing individually and together. Obsessed with their relationship developing and the depth to it. I loved that they both had dreams and wants in life and they worked out how to make them work together, supporting each other through it. One part that stuck out to me which I loved so much was ‘protective without being possessive’ I love when the MMC knows that she has strength that he doesn’t need to go ‘alfa’ and step in, he just needs to let her know she’s not alone, she’s got this and he’s there for here.
KINDA SPOILER enjoyed that there wasn’t a third act breakup.
And then, I continue slowly, ‘he reached for my hand. Just… Took it. Like it made sense”
Review of advance copy
Arc Reviewer
I loved this book. I was hooked from the beginning. I fell in love with Colson Burke. This book has the small town feel of Gilmore Girls and a sporty
grumpy X sunshine trope. The town has community that I think everyone longs for. There are talks of grief from losing a parent and grief from losing the life that you thought you were going to have.
I honestly didn't think I was going to like this book at first, but I fell IN LOVE with the characters and the town of Golden Harbor (I wish my town was like Golden Harbor) It truly gives you the feel of the small town life that I think everyone craves.
I LOVE how Colson loves Sadie. He's literally what every girl wants to find, and honestly the same with Sadie. These characters were PERFECT for each other, they complemented each other so well.
Sadie was the sweetest character, literal sunshine. She loves loud and is so supportive of everyone that she loves. She had a rough patch with a past love and turned herself back around. I love how the book details how her last relationship was and how she had to make herself small to be perfect for him, when fact was she was perfect all along.
Colson came to town to get away from his life after some heavy stuff went down. He's grieving the loss of his mom and his career, he's standoffish and grumpy at first but once you see his true personality come through you can't help but fall for him and sympathize with what he's dealing with.
Both characters have some flaws as we all do, but they show up for each other. Wholeheartedly.
Where can I find a Colson Burke?!?
asking for a friend... maybe.. 😂
I loved this book. I was hooked from the beginning. I fell in love with Colson Burke. This book has the small town feel of Gilmore Girls and a sporty
grumpy X sunshine trope. The town has community that I think everyone longs for. There are talks of grief from losing a parent and grief from losing the life that you thought you were going to have.
I honestly didn't think I was going to like this book at first, but I fell IN LOVE with the characters and the town of Golden Harbor (I wish my town was like Golden Harbor) It truly gives you the feel of the small town life that I think everyone craves.
I LOVE how Colson loves Sadie. He's literally what every girl wants to find, and honestly the same with Sadie. These characters were PERFECT for each other, they complemented each other so well.
Sadie was the sweetest character, literal sunshine. She loves loud and is so supportive of everyone that she loves. She had a rough patch with a past love and turned herself back around. I love how the book details how her last relationship was and how she had to make herself small to be perfect for him, when fact was she was perfect all along.
Colson came to town to get away from his life after some heavy stuff went down. He's grieving the loss of his mom and his career, he's standoffish and grumpy at first but once you see his true personality come through you can't help but fall for him and sympathize with what he's dealing with.
Both characters have some flaws as we all do, but they show up for each other. Wholeheartedly.
Where can I find a Colson Burke?!?
asking for a friend... maybe.. 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2026
GOLDEN HOUR ARC REVIEW TIME!!
I just finished Golden Hour and omg that literally was so good , I absolutely loved how this book took place in a small town it just felt so homey and warm and I just loved the vibes , if anyone knows me they know how I absolutely love a good grumpy sunshine romance and this one delivered! Also let’s take a minute and talk about the nickname he gave her cause that was literally the cutest like ugh “my sunshine girl” 😩😩 literally obsessed with them so much , I’ve said it before and i will say it again i just absolutely love how Rachel writes woman in sports, she writes them so perfectly and it just shows that any woman can truly do anything we set our minds to and I just love that so much! I’m so grateful I was able to be apart of this arc team and fall into the world of Golden Harbor! Colson and Sadies story is so beautiful and i loved all the adventures Sadie was taking Colson on and showing him the places he couldn’t quite figure out what they meant and along the way she was healing a part of him with the grief of losing someone he cared about so much about and he was healing her from what she had been through, they both deserved each other so so much!!
I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I just finished Golden Hour and omg that literally was so good , I absolutely loved how this book took place in a small town it just felt so homey and warm and I just loved the vibes , if anyone knows me they know how I absolutely love a good grumpy sunshine romance and this one delivered! Also let’s take a minute and talk about the nickname he gave her cause that was literally the cutest like ugh “my sunshine girl” 😩😩 literally obsessed with them so much , I’ve said it before and i will say it again i just absolutely love how Rachel writes woman in sports, she writes them so perfectly and it just shows that any woman can truly do anything we set our minds to and I just love that so much! I’m so grateful I was able to be apart of this arc team and fall into the world of Golden Harbor! Colson and Sadies story is so beautiful and i loved all the adventures Sadie was taking Colson on and showing him the places he couldn’t quite figure out what they meant and along the way she was healing a part of him with the grief of losing someone he cared about so much about and he was healing her from what she had been through, they both deserved each other so so much!!
I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was really good. I loved how both MC's were into sports so they had a shared love of sports.
Colson had me in some anxiety spots trying to figure out why he was running.
Sadie is a spitfire of sunshine. I love how she brought Colson out of his shell and was able to give him the insiders tour of Golden Harbor.
The trauma both of them suffered is different yet the same. One's dreams were stopped and shaped into giving the love of basketball to the younger generation, while another's was to recover and show the world they still had what it took to make the dream stay alive.
There were a lot of "oh no!" moments in this book. But I am so glad they worked together and figured a way through instead of letting the voices of other's win.
I gave this book 4 stars because in the first half of the book felt like it dragged out Colson's issues with nothing happening like he was stagnant. Once it picked up I was very into the storyline and needed to see if what I thought would happen would.
Thank you Rachel LaBerge for letting me read an early copy of this book!
Colson had me in some anxiety spots trying to figure out why he was running.
Sadie is a spitfire of sunshine. I love how she brought Colson out of his shell and was able to give him the insiders tour of Golden Harbor.
The trauma both of them suffered is different yet the same. One's dreams were stopped and shaped into giving the love of basketball to the younger generation, while another's was to recover and show the world they still had what it took to make the dream stay alive.
There were a lot of "oh no!" moments in this book. But I am so glad they worked together and figured a way through instead of letting the voices of other's win.
I gave this book 4 stars because in the first half of the book felt like it dragged out Colson's issues with nothing happening like he was stagnant. Once it picked up I was very into the storyline and needed to see if what I thought would happen would.
Thank you Rachel LaBerge for letting me read an early copy of this book!
March 16, 2026
This was a basketball romance book. You have Colson and Sadie’s story that is a fun whirlwind and all the small town cozy feels.
They have such a funny meet cute. He is the professional bad boy basketball player come to town to hide out and let the dust settle, she is a ex professional woman’s basketball player- out due to an injury, who now runs the local rec center for youth to be active in sports and athletics. Sadie’s passion for her rec center is to her bone marrow and you can’t help but be drawn to her audacity to stick through even in the hard times. It may be being held together with duct tape and glue but Sadie’s heart is one heck of a bonding agent holding it all in place.
Colson learns quickly this small town has a pack and protects their own. He learns that if he is going to stick there at all he has to find his place, and when Sadie needs help at the rec center Colson learns quickly he can’t let those kiddos down.
Sadie is a shinning sun in the rain storm and she is willing to live in his thundercloud.
They have such a funny meet cute. He is the professional bad boy basketball player come to town to hide out and let the dust settle, she is a ex professional woman’s basketball player- out due to an injury, who now runs the local rec center for youth to be active in sports and athletics. Sadie’s passion for her rec center is to her bone marrow and you can’t help but be drawn to her audacity to stick through even in the hard times. It may be being held together with duct tape and glue but Sadie’s heart is one heck of a bonding agent holding it all in place.
Colson learns quickly this small town has a pack and protects their own. He learns that if he is going to stick there at all he has to find his place, and when Sadie needs help at the rec center Colson learns quickly he can’t let those kiddos down.
Sadie is a shinning sun in the rain storm and she is willing to live in his thundercloud.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Golden Hour completely stole my heart. Yes, it has the spice, the tension, and that quiet, aching sense of yearning—but what truly made this story unforgettable for me was Colson’s journey through grief.
His experience navigating the loss of his mom hit incredibly close to home. After recently losing my dad, I saw so much of myself in Colson—his thoughts, his emotions, the way he moves through everyday life while carrying something so heavy. That aspect of the story felt deeply personal, and I think it was handled with so much care and authenticity. It made this book feel more than just a romance read.
And then there’s Colson and Sadie. Once you get past Colson’s grumpy exterior (btw, i love a grumpy man), their connection just clicks. They’re opposites in all the right ways, but also similar where it matters most. Watching their relationship unfold felt natural, heartfelt, and so easy to root for!
I truly couldn’t have loved this read more. It’s emotional, romantic, and deeply resonant in a way that will stay with me long after the final page!
His experience navigating the loss of his mom hit incredibly close to home. After recently losing my dad, I saw so much of myself in Colson—his thoughts, his emotions, the way he moves through everyday life while carrying something so heavy. That aspect of the story felt deeply personal, and I think it was handled with so much care and authenticity. It made this book feel more than just a romance read.
And then there’s Colson and Sadie. Once you get past Colson’s grumpy exterior (btw, i love a grumpy man), their connection just clicks. They’re opposites in all the right ways, but also similar where it matters most. Watching their relationship unfold felt natural, heartfelt, and so easy to root for!
I truly couldn’t have loved this read more. It’s emotional, romantic, and deeply resonant in a way that will stay with me long after the final page!
March 18, 2026
GOLDEN HOUR by Rachel LaBerge
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Grumpy x Sunshine
Sports Romance
Small town
Hurt / Comfort
This book was pure sunshine. I was hooked on the story from the very beginning. Golden Harbor had me longing for summer and the simplicity of a day by the beach. I instantly fell in love with the main characters of the book. They were such beautiful foils of one another, both complex and simple at the same time. Sadie was pure and kind, wearing her heart on her chest from the very beginning. She demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the book, and her character was admirable. Colson, the MMC, was complicated and full of anxiety and grief. It was beautiful to see the ways in which their relationship settled him and brought a sense of comfort back into his life. I loved the way the tests of their relationship brought them closer together, rather than driving them apart. This is a feel-good romance I highly recommend. Thank you, Rachel Laberge, for this ARC of Golden Hour!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc Review 3.7 out 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story follows Colson and Sadie. Colson comes to town after getting into it with his NBA coach while also grieving the loss of his mother. Wanting to get away from everything, he ends up in a small town where he meets Sadie, who runs the local rec center. Sadie has a bubbly, sunshine personality while Colson is more of the grumpy, closed off type, which made for a fun grumpy sunshine dynamic.
This story was cute and touched on deeper subjects like grief, healing, and finding yourself again after loss and personal growth. I liked the contrast between the characters and how Sadie helped bring some light into Colson’s life.
I enjoyed reading this story though I did wish some parts had a little more depth and development. But I loved the characters and the nickname Colton gave Sadie and the cherries and sunsets😭
A cute romance that explores grief and personal growth.
This story follows Colson and Sadie. Colson comes to town after getting into it with his NBA coach while also grieving the loss of his mother. Wanting to get away from everything, he ends up in a small town where he meets Sadie, who runs the local rec center. Sadie has a bubbly, sunshine personality while Colson is more of the grumpy, closed off type, which made for a fun grumpy sunshine dynamic.
This story was cute and touched on deeper subjects like grief, healing, and finding yourself again after loss and personal growth. I liked the contrast between the characters and how Sadie helped bring some light into Colson’s life.
I enjoyed reading this story though I did wish some parts had a little more depth and development. But I loved the characters and the nickname Colton gave Sadie and the cherries and sunsets😭
A cute romance that explores grief and personal growth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 stars for me.
Colson Burke is hidding in a small town in his late mother had a summer house.Dismissed from the NBA,he need sort his options and here no one will find him.Sadie runs the recreation center next door,and while their first meeting didn't go well,Colson grumpiness didn't seem to scare Sadie.Both dealing with something,maybe they just are in the perfect place to find a peace.
This was an enjoyable grumpy-sunshine sports romance that left me with a smile on my face.Colson grumpiness was on spot,he really could not help himself yet didn't stand chance against Sadie's sunny personality.Their interaction and banter was fun to read about,and also the sweet and serious momens when they trust each other with their problems.Few steamy and spicy moments was added,and I got the great mix in this sport romance.My first book by this author and hope to read more.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Colson Burke is hidding in a small town in his late mother had a summer house.Dismissed from the NBA,he need sort his options and here no one will find him.Sadie runs the recreation center next door,and while their first meeting didn't go well,Colson grumpiness didn't seem to scare Sadie.Both dealing with something,maybe they just are in the perfect place to find a peace.
This was an enjoyable grumpy-sunshine sports romance that left me with a smile on my face.Colson grumpiness was on spot,he really could not help himself yet didn't stand chance against Sadie's sunny personality.Their interaction and banter was fun to read about,and also the sweet and serious momens when they trust each other with their problems.Few steamy and spicy moments was added,and I got the great mix in this sport romance.My first book by this author and hope to read more.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
I was so lucky to Alpha read this book and to see the finished project now is unbelievable! I loved it whole heartedly but I wanted MORE selfishly!
Colson is the perfect grump who I fell in love with at first scowl - much like Sadie ❤️🔥
Sadie is pure sunshine lighting up the book with her positive vibes that everyone feeds off around her.
These two had that perfect slow burn chemistry that you just ate up on every page!
I love that they connected over basketball and Sadie helped him see there is life after injury and gave him the push he needed to go back to the game he loves so much.
And a moment for the rec center kiddos - they were the best little cameos to push Sadie and Colson closer together 💕
Maren - Sadie’s bestie - is one of my favorite side characters ever! She was cracking me up with all her nicknames and one liners.
Thank you Rachel for trusting me to Alpha read and ARC read this book!
I was so lucky to Alpha read this book and to see the finished project now is unbelievable! I loved it whole heartedly but I wanted MORE selfishly!
Colson is the perfect grump who I fell in love with at first scowl - much like Sadie ❤️🔥
Sadie is pure sunshine lighting up the book with her positive vibes that everyone feeds off around her.
These two had that perfect slow burn chemistry that you just ate up on every page!
I love that they connected over basketball and Sadie helped him see there is life after injury and gave him the push he needed to go back to the game he loves so much.
And a moment for the rec center kiddos - they were the best little cameos to push Sadie and Colson closer together 💕
Maren - Sadie’s bestie - is one of my favorite side characters ever! She was cracking me up with all her nicknames and one liners.
Thank you Rachel for trusting me to Alpha read and ARC read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
as always thank you rachel for letting me arc read!!!
wow this book was so good. i finished it in one sitting because i just couldn’t put it down. golden hour was the perfect grumpy x sunshine book.
colson is an nba player who went away for the summer in hopes to forget what happened that got him released from his contract. sadie is a local who coaches at the rec center next to colson’s house. the last thing colson wanted was to be in the basketball world during his summer but it turns out it was what he needed most.
colson and sadie are the perfect couple not only do they balance each other out perfectly but they are what each other needs.
colson and sadie both learning to heal for their pasts. colson is grieving the loss of his mom & sadie is moving on from her ex. they learn how to heal from their personal traumas and learn to rely and love on each other.
wow this book was so good. i finished it in one sitting because i just couldn’t put it down. golden hour was the perfect grumpy x sunshine book.
colson is an nba player who went away for the summer in hopes to forget what happened that got him released from his contract. sadie is a local who coaches at the rec center next to colson’s house. the last thing colson wanted was to be in the basketball world during his summer but it turns out it was what he needed most.
colson and sadie are the perfect couple not only do they balance each other out perfectly but they are what each other needs.
colson and sadie both learning to heal for their pasts. colson is grieving the loss of his mom & sadie is moving on from her ex. they learn how to heal from their personal traumas and learn to rely and love on each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love a slow burn, grumpy x sunshine basketball romance, this is the book for you.
Golden Hour by Rachel LaBerge ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story follows two characters , Sadie and Colson. Both characters faces life altering changes that lead them to Golden Harbor, Michigan. One is running towards what they love and one is running away from what they love.
Can a rec center focused on basketball help these two connect? Can remembering what it felt like to fall in love again with the game help them move past the reasons they’re running ?
Colsons finds a hidden summer list that unlocks some unexpected secrets.
Is Sadie willing to risk her heart after everything that’s happened in past?
Love and basketball…
Do you think Sadie and Colson will make the right calls? Are the stakes worth the risk?
Golden Hour by Rachel LaBerge ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story follows two characters , Sadie and Colson. Both characters faces life altering changes that lead them to Golden Harbor, Michigan. One is running towards what they love and one is running away from what they love.
Can a rec center focused on basketball help these two connect? Can remembering what it felt like to fall in love again with the game help them move past the reasons they’re running ?
Colsons finds a hidden summer list that unlocks some unexpected secrets.
Is Sadie willing to risk her heart after everything that’s happened in past?
Love and basketball…
Do you think Sadie and Colson will make the right calls? Are the stakes worth the risk?
March 8, 2026
First of all thank you for sending me this ARC!
4.5⭐️
The way this book had me giggling, kicking my feet and screaming was unreal 🤭 This was a sweet sunshine x grumpy romance book. While this book was sweet there was a lot of heavy emotional topics so check your trigger warnings!
In this story we follow Sadie and Colson. They are dealing with life altering changes that lead them to Golden Harbor, Michigan. One is running towards what they love and one is running away from what they love. They help each other bring back the light to their lives.
The banter between both characters will have you cheesing so hard! ❤️🔥🤭 Rachel did a great job a portraying what a real connection between to people should be!! I’m so excited for whatever she writes next!!💗
Tropes:
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏀Sports Romance (both are athletes)
☀️Small Town
🏀Slow burn
☀️Spicy
🏀Hurt/Comfort
☀️No third-act breakup
4.5⭐️
The way this book had me giggling, kicking my feet and screaming was unreal 🤭 This was a sweet sunshine x grumpy romance book. While this book was sweet there was a lot of heavy emotional topics so check your trigger warnings!
In this story we follow Sadie and Colson. They are dealing with life altering changes that lead them to Golden Harbor, Michigan. One is running towards what they love and one is running away from what they love. They help each other bring back the light to their lives.
The banter between both characters will have you cheesing so hard! ❤️🔥🤭 Rachel did a great job a portraying what a real connection between to people should be!! I’m so excited for whatever she writes next!!💗
Tropes:
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🏀Sports Romance (both are athletes)
☀️Small Town
🏀Slow burn
☀️Spicy
🏀Hurt/Comfort
☀️No third-act breakup
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