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Home Advantage : A Fake Dating Hockey Romance
Carson
I’m well-known for being a controversial hockey player.
A lesser-known fact is that I want someone to call mine.
So when I see the most perfect woman in the stands during a fist-fight on the ice, I get distracted and finally, just before I get punched in the face.
A worse blow is when she gets away—and the finishing move is when my favorite food brands refuse to work with me unless I improve my reputation.
But when I run into Jamie Michaels at the bookstore she works at, our attraction to each other is undeniable, even if she won’t trust me with the broken heart I’ll do anything to fix.
Jamie
When my ex says he’s leaving me, I shouldn’t be shocked, given my history.
But him cheating and kicking me out makes me so done with this love thing—so there’s no way I’m letting an NHL player get his hands on my heart.
Yet when Carson Callaway offers me a chance to get back at my ex, it’s too good to pass up, and in turn, I offer to help repair his image.
We’ll fake date and keep it just that, fake.
But it’s so, so hard to with all this tension and chemistry simmering between us.
I can’t handle any more heartbreak, but what if things are different this time? What if Carson and I finally find home in each other?
Home Advantage is a spicy, fake dating hockey romance with “he falls first and hard” and a guaranteed happily ever after.
I’m well-known for being a controversial hockey player.
A lesser-known fact is that I want someone to call mine.
So when I see the most perfect woman in the stands during a fist-fight on the ice, I get distracted and finally, just before I get punched in the face.
A worse blow is when she gets away—and the finishing move is when my favorite food brands refuse to work with me unless I improve my reputation.
But when I run into Jamie Michaels at the bookstore she works at, our attraction to each other is undeniable, even if she won’t trust me with the broken heart I’ll do anything to fix.
Jamie
When my ex says he’s leaving me, I shouldn’t be shocked, given my history.
But him cheating and kicking me out makes me so done with this love thing—so there’s no way I’m letting an NHL player get his hands on my heart.
Yet when Carson Callaway offers me a chance to get back at my ex, it’s too good to pass up, and in turn, I offer to help repair his image.
We’ll fake date and keep it just that, fake.
But it’s so, so hard to with all this tension and chemistry simmering between us.
I can’t handle any more heartbreak, but what if things are different this time? What if Carson and I finally find home in each other?
Home Advantage is a spicy, fake dating hockey romance with “he falls first and hard” and a guaranteed happily ever after.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2025
299 people are currently reading
815 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 20, 2025
I came across this book randomly on TikTok and God am I glad 🥹🥰 I initially downloaded the book to read the rest of the sentence from the TikTok teaser and then I was hooked!!
I was ready to read the next book and then realised this is the first book in the series and came out YESTERDAY 😂🥲
This was sooo gooood 😭 so beautifully executed. I love love man 🤭 I know book 2 is going to be even better omg omg
I don’t think Kyle suffered enough, but I get it. He’s just so irrelevant 🤣🤣 you’re too busy falling in love with Carse to even care about the revenge!!
This book has potential to be a perfect audiobook 😏
I was ready to read the next book and then realised this is the first book in the series and came out YESTERDAY 😂🥲
This was sooo gooood 😭 so beautifully executed. I love love man 🤭 I know book 2 is going to be even better omg omg
I don’t think Kyle suffered enough, but I get it. He’s just so irrelevant 🤣🤣 you’re too busy falling in love with Carse to even care about the revenge!!
This book has potential to be a perfect audiobook 😏
December 29, 2025
2.75 (rounded to 3) ⭐️
🏒 Professional Hockey Player
📚 Book Lover(s)
🏒 Fake Dating
📚 He Falls First
‼️ TW: Mentions of miscarriage
FMC: Jamie Michaels/MMC: Carson Callaway
After a continuous string of bad luck in relationships, Jamie Michaels has sworn off dating for good. NHL’s controversial hockey star, Carson Callaway, is in danger of losing his dream endorsements if he doesn’t clean up his image. Carson could benefit from dating a good girl like Jamie, and what a perfect way for Jamie to get back at her cheating ex-boyfriend than dating none other than his favorite hockey player? The rule is simple; everything will befake – fake dating for beneficial purposes only.
I should note that I read a ton of hockey romance, so maybe this one just fell a little flat for me in certain ways. I felt as if there wasn’t any real substance with the plot and some things could’ve used more development. I am a huge fan of slow burn and this book contained absolutely none of it – Carson was too immediate with his feelings for Jamie and honestly, I didn’t really feel their chemistry. The little nicknames throughout the book were a little cringe to me. Jamie spent a lot, if not most of the book, doubting her self-worth (which is a completely valid feeling for her with what we know about her previous relationships). While I do think it is important for Jamie to see her worth through Caron’s eyes, it’s just as important for her to see her own self worth through her own eyes and I don’t think there was much discovery of her healing shown.
This was a super quick read and had some cute moments. Carson and Jamie’s own little book club was adorable. I was a fan of the side characters in this story – I appreciated that Lila was a girl’s girl and always had Jamie’s back. I also really enjoyed getting to know the other members of the Tampa Talons and look forward to reading their stories in the future books of this series. (Especially Lila and Hudson – I loved all the little snippets you could piece together that something TBD was happening behind the scenes with them).
Thank you to author Layne Wren for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
🏒 Professional Hockey Player
📚 Book Lover(s)
🏒 Fake Dating
📚 He Falls First
‼️ TW: Mentions of miscarriage
FMC: Jamie Michaels/MMC: Carson Callaway
After a continuous string of bad luck in relationships, Jamie Michaels has sworn off dating for good. NHL’s controversial hockey star, Carson Callaway, is in danger of losing his dream endorsements if he doesn’t clean up his image. Carson could benefit from dating a good girl like Jamie, and what a perfect way for Jamie to get back at her cheating ex-boyfriend than dating none other than his favorite hockey player? The rule is simple; everything will befake – fake dating for beneficial purposes only.
I should note that I read a ton of hockey romance, so maybe this one just fell a little flat for me in certain ways. I felt as if there wasn’t any real substance with the plot and some things could’ve used more development. I am a huge fan of slow burn and this book contained absolutely none of it – Carson was too immediate with his feelings for Jamie and honestly, I didn’t really feel their chemistry. The little nicknames throughout the book were a little cringe to me. Jamie spent a lot, if not most of the book, doubting her self-worth (which is a completely valid feeling for her with what we know about her previous relationships). While I do think it is important for Jamie to see her worth through Caron’s eyes, it’s just as important for her to see her own self worth through her own eyes and I don’t think there was much discovery of her healing shown.
This was a super quick read and had some cute moments. Carson and Jamie’s own little book club was adorable. I was a fan of the side characters in this story – I appreciated that Lila was a girl’s girl and always had Jamie’s back. I also really enjoyed getting to know the other members of the Tampa Talons and look forward to reading their stories in the future books of this series. (Especially Lila and Hudson – I loved all the little snippets you could piece together that something TBD was happening behind the scenes with them).
Thank you to author Layne Wren for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2025
FMC/MMC- 26
Spice- 🌶️ 🌶️.5
Hockey
Fake dating
He falls first
First, I was unable to find this book listed until I entered the ASIN number from Amazon. Searching by name or author didn’t pull- do better Goodreads.
This book was pretty OK. It was well written and a super quick read. The characters were likable, even the side characters, and I think I’ll come back and try Hudson and Lila’s story.
What dropped this in rating was just some of the dialogue. There were certain times it was kind of cheesy and cringe, even though at other times I appreciated how good of communication these two had.
Some things that annoyed me were for example; He makes a joke about how she reads slow (I think he even said something flippant like pay attention or focus) as a joke because he’s kissing her and distracting her and she goes on a mental rant about how she doesn’t need some jock hockey player criticizing how she reads. She reads 3 books a week, works at a bookstore, went to school for it. Doesn’t need him telling her she’s “not focused enough when it comes to reading”. She then gets angry at him and he has to very sweetly just diffuse her and be like, I was distracting you and just made a joke. It was a weird display of her many insecurities.
Something that weirdly rubbed me the wrong way was Jaime calling Carson by his nickname “Carse” without even knowing him..like he’d literally just introduced himself and she she’s all star struck by meeting the famous hockey player Carson Calloway IRL and she refers to him as Carse. It was just strange and weird to me.
Additionally I honestly had the biggest ick to HIS nickname of her too..Dawnie. Supposedly her red hair reminds him of the sun coming up at dawn or something like that, but I honestly just felt cringe city every time he said it..which was ALOT.
Other than that there wasn’t a ton of substance, just Jamie spending most of the book feeling unworthy and unloved and Carson thinking she’s the most beautiful thing in the world and being a super great guy. 🤷♀️ 3.5 ⭐️
Spice- 🌶️ 🌶️.5
Hockey
Fake dating
He falls first
First, I was unable to find this book listed until I entered the ASIN number from Amazon. Searching by name or author didn’t pull- do better Goodreads.
This book was pretty OK. It was well written and a super quick read. The characters were likable, even the side characters, and I think I’ll come back and try Hudson and Lila’s story.
What dropped this in rating was just some of the dialogue. There were certain times it was kind of cheesy and cringe, even though at other times I appreciated how good of communication these two had.
Some things that annoyed me were for example; He makes a joke about how she reads slow (I think he even said something flippant like pay attention or focus) as a joke because he’s kissing her and distracting her and she goes on a mental rant about how she doesn’t need some jock hockey player criticizing how she reads. She reads 3 books a week, works at a bookstore, went to school for it. Doesn’t need him telling her she’s “not focused enough when it comes to reading”. She then gets angry at him and he has to very sweetly just diffuse her and be like, I was distracting you and just made a joke. It was a weird display of her many insecurities.
Something that weirdly rubbed me the wrong way was Jaime calling Carson by his nickname “Carse” without even knowing him..like he’d literally just introduced himself and she she’s all star struck by meeting the famous hockey player Carson Calloway IRL and she refers to him as Carse. It was just strange and weird to me.
Additionally I honestly had the biggest ick to HIS nickname of her too..Dawnie. Supposedly her red hair reminds him of the sun coming up at dawn or something like that, but I honestly just felt cringe city every time he said it..which was ALOT.
Other than that there wasn’t a ton of substance, just Jamie spending most of the book feeling unworthy and unloved and Carson thinking she’s the most beautiful thing in the world and being a super great guy. 🤷♀️ 3.5 ⭐️
December 30, 2025
This book opened with a punch. Please check trigger warnings before reading! I had a lot of feelings about what happened to Jamie. I was angry, felt hurt for her, and wanted her to get her revenge. She essentially was kicked while she was down. It definitely wound me up!
I struggled with was the insta-love/love at first sight by Carson. I did like the development of their relationship with texts and their mutual interests. Some of the dialogue was a little silly though.
Jamie feels like she’s broken from her experiences and Carson helps to create a safe space for her to exist. The fake dating reason for Jamie seemed a little superficial.
I disliked the nicknames for the characters. They just didn’t resonate with me.
Home Advantage is the debut book for Layne Wren. It was a solid debut. The next book in the series looks like it will be a good one based on the lead in from this book.
Characters:
Carson Callaway
Jamie Michaels
What to Expect:
Dual POV
Hockey Romance
Bad boy x good girl
Fake dating
He falls first and hard
Heartbroken FMC
Tension
Please check trigger warnings before reading!
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Layne Wren for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
I struggled with was the insta-love/love at first sight by Carson. I did like the development of their relationship with texts and their mutual interests. Some of the dialogue was a little silly though.
Jamie feels like she’s broken from her experiences and Carson helps to create a safe space for her to exist. The fake dating reason for Jamie seemed a little superficial.
I disliked the nicknames for the characters. They just didn’t resonate with me.
Home Advantage is the debut book for Layne Wren. It was a solid debut. The next book in the series looks like it will be a good one based on the lead in from this book.
Characters:
Carson Callaway
Jamie Michaels
What to Expect:
Dual POV
Hockey Romance
Bad boy x good girl
Fake dating
He falls first and hard
Heartbroken FMC
Tension
Please check trigger warnings before reading!
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Layne Wren for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
December 26, 2025
First, I wanted to thank Layne Wren for the ARC opportunity. I very much enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the rest of the series! I need to know Hudson and Lila deal, too much chemistry for them to not date.
This was a very well written love story! It was a slow burn was the perfect amount of spice sprinkled throughout. Carson was the highest level of evolved when it comes to Jamie’s insecurities and trauma but a neanderthal when it comes to men bothering or disrespecting her! It’s the perfect dichotomy for a MMC, though I will say he was almost too understanding and forgiving. The female relationships were endearing and it was nice to see straight males that seemed to actually enjoy the FMC friendship without hitting on her. I also really appreciated that actions seemed to have real consequences and things didn’t just magically all work out.
This was a great series opener and sets the tone for an interesting series with the chance to explore to some fun tropes! Absolutely would recommend for a palette cleanser or to get out of a slump. Easy but engaging and enjoyable with some fun twists.
This was a very well written love story! It was a slow burn was the perfect amount of spice sprinkled throughout. Carson was the highest level of evolved when it comes to Jamie’s insecurities and trauma but a neanderthal when it comes to men bothering or disrespecting her! It’s the perfect dichotomy for a MMC, though I will say he was almost too understanding and forgiving. The female relationships were endearing and it was nice to see straight males that seemed to actually enjoy the FMC friendship without hitting on her. I also really appreciated that actions seemed to have real consequences and things didn’t just magically all work out.
This was a great series opener and sets the tone for an interesting series with the chance to explore to some fun tropes! Absolutely would recommend for a palette cleanser or to get out of a slump. Easy but engaging and enjoyable with some fun twists.
December 25, 2025
Carson + Jamie.
When we meet Jamie (our FMC) she is really going through it with Kyle (he's not a really good boyfriend okay?). Let's just say I am happy that Carson came into her bookshop & I am happy that Home Advantage ends happy because the beginning of the book is ROUGH.
& by rough I mean. You know bad things come in threes? Well, in this case she's just had a traumatic thing happen to her, her boyfriend is cheating AND he asks her to move out.. & there is so much more. Kyle is a walking exclamation point.. and not the good kind. Okay, maybe, he's more of a red warning alarm. Either way we do not like Kyle.
Now Carson.. needs to clean up his image AND Jamie needs someone to make sure Kyle stays away. So enter the fake dating trope. I tell you all. We know it never works, someone always falls but.. I do enjoy a good fake dating sports romance book.
Layne you did a great job with character development, having a good base for this series and I loved Carson's character so so much.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
When we meet Jamie (our FMC) she is really going through it with Kyle (he's not a really good boyfriend okay?). Let's just say I am happy that Carson came into her bookshop & I am happy that Home Advantage ends happy because the beginning of the book is ROUGH.
& by rough I mean. You know bad things come in threes? Well, in this case she's just had a traumatic thing happen to her, her boyfriend is cheating AND he asks her to move out.. & there is so much more. Kyle is a walking exclamation point.. and not the good kind. Okay, maybe, he's more of a red warning alarm. Either way we do not like Kyle.
Now Carson.. needs to clean up his image AND Jamie needs someone to make sure Kyle stays away. So enter the fake dating trope. I tell you all. We know it never works, someone always falls but.. I do enjoy a good fake dating sports romance book.
Layne you did a great job with character development, having a good base for this series and I loved Carson's character so so much.
Thank you to the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2026
This was my first introduction to Layne Wren’s writing, and I absolutely loved it. I was hooked within the first few pages.
What happens to Jamie at the beginning of the book completely gutted me. She goes through something traumatic and is then kicked when she’s already down. Her ex, Kyle, really did a number on her - and wow, did I hate him. Thankfully, he becomes completely irrelevant once Carson enters the picture, because Carson overshadows every bad moment.
The insta-love from Carson? Perfection. He knew exactly what he wanted and went after it without hesitation. I loved how in tune he was with Jamie’s emotions - he just knew when she needed reassurance or quiet support. While this is a classic fake-dating scenario, there was absolutely nothing fake about Carson’s feelings for Jamie from the very beginning.
The line that truly got me was the moment he first sees her at one of his games:
“A thought flares in my mind: finally.”
That single word said everything.
Thank you so much for this ARC read and I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
What happens to Jamie at the beginning of the book completely gutted me. She goes through something traumatic and is then kicked when she’s already down. Her ex, Kyle, really did a number on her - and wow, did I hate him. Thankfully, he becomes completely irrelevant once Carson enters the picture, because Carson overshadows every bad moment.
The insta-love from Carson? Perfection. He knew exactly what he wanted and went after it without hesitation. I loved how in tune he was with Jamie’s emotions - he just knew when she needed reassurance or quiet support. While this is a classic fake-dating scenario, there was absolutely nothing fake about Carson’s feelings for Jamie from the very beginning.
The line that truly got me was the moment he first sees her at one of his games:
“A thought flares in my mind: finally.”
That single word said everything.
Thank you so much for this ARC read and I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
January 15, 2026
ARC Review
Home Advantage by Layne Wren
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Home Advantage is a fast-paced hockey romance packed with tension, spice, and an MMC who falls first and falls hard.
This book follows Jamie and Carson, and when we first meet Jamie, she’s absolutely heartbroken and struggling to put herself back together. She works at a bookstore, has sworn off men, and is clearly carrying the weight of past hurt. Enter Carson: a hockey player who becomes immediately obsessed with Jamie after spotting her in the stands at one of his games. This is very much an insta-love story, but honestly? I ate it up. Carson is completely upfront and unwavering with his feelings, which made his devotion really enjoyable to read.
The book features fake dating, revenge, bad boy x good girl, and dual POV That said, the fake-dating aspect was pretty short-lived. One of my favourite aspects of the story was how Carson created a safe space for Jamie. Jamie feels broken by her past, and Carson’s steady presence and support really shine. Their relationship balances emotional healing with plenty of romance and spice, along with a solid dose of drama.
One small thing that felt a bit off was Jamie using Carson’s nickname, “Carse,” before she had even met him, it pulled me out of the story just slightly. Still, it wasn’t enough to detract from my overall enjoyment.
Overall, Home Advantage was a quick, easy, and entertaining read. I really enjoyed it and am definitely looking forward to the rest of the series, especially because I need to know what happened between Hudson and Lila! If you enjoy hockey romances with instant chemistry, a devoted MMC, and emotional healing, this one is worth picking up.
Home Advantage by Layne Wren
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Home Advantage is a fast-paced hockey romance packed with tension, spice, and an MMC who falls first and falls hard.
This book follows Jamie and Carson, and when we first meet Jamie, she’s absolutely heartbroken and struggling to put herself back together. She works at a bookstore, has sworn off men, and is clearly carrying the weight of past hurt. Enter Carson: a hockey player who becomes immediately obsessed with Jamie after spotting her in the stands at one of his games. This is very much an insta-love story, but honestly? I ate it up. Carson is completely upfront and unwavering with his feelings, which made his devotion really enjoyable to read.
The book features fake dating, revenge, bad boy x good girl, and dual POV That said, the fake-dating aspect was pretty short-lived. One of my favourite aspects of the story was how Carson created a safe space for Jamie. Jamie feels broken by her past, and Carson’s steady presence and support really shine. Their relationship balances emotional healing with plenty of romance and spice, along with a solid dose of drama.
One small thing that felt a bit off was Jamie using Carson’s nickname, “Carse,” before she had even met him, it pulled me out of the story just slightly. Still, it wasn’t enough to detract from my overall enjoyment.
Overall, Home Advantage was a quick, easy, and entertaining read. I really enjoyed it and am definitely looking forward to the rest of the series, especially because I need to know what happened between Hudson and Lila! If you enjoy hockey romances with instant chemistry, a devoted MMC, and emotional healing, this one is worth picking up.
January 17, 2026
I stayed up till 2am reading this book. If u need a light hearted book(with a few dark themes) just to read or as a pallet refresher I definitely recommend. I give this book a solid 3.75- 4⭐️ I absolutely loved the characters and plot. Be aware this book might not be for everyone as they do talk about trust issues, miscarriages and identity problems (low self esteem). The characters do grow and form an amazing bond.
Our main fmc is Jamie and she works at a bookstore. After being kicked out of a shared apartment, disrespected and mistreated by her ex boyfriend she moves out. One night she goes out to an ice hockey game with her friend,who works for the team, she catches the attention of the mighty Carse.
Carse is our mmc and he is utterly obsessed with our fmc. He was the firm foundation Jamie needed to believe in Love again. He is funny, romantic and athletic but most importantly he puts his women first (even over his career)
So check it out!
Our main fmc is Jamie and she works at a bookstore. After being kicked out of a shared apartment, disrespected and mistreated by her ex boyfriend she moves out. One night she goes out to an ice hockey game with her friend,who works for the team, she catches the attention of the mighty Carse.
Carse is our mmc and he is utterly obsessed with our fmc. He was the firm foundation Jamie needed to believe in Love again. He is funny, romantic and athletic but most importantly he puts his women first (even over his career)
So check it out!
January 3, 2026
A Hockey Romance I Didn’t Want to End
⭐ Rating: 4.75 stars
🌶 Spice: 2/5
Please check trigger warnings before reading, especially for miscarriage (it is very brief, but worth noting).
This was such a great, easy read — I flew through it in a single day and honestly didn’t want it to end. The pacing was smooth, the tension worked really well, and the emotional beats landed without feeling heavy or drawn out.
Jamie was a standout FMC for me. I loved her growth, especially watching her rediscover her self-worth and realize she deserves love. Her journey felt genuine and relatable. Carson, meanwhile, was nothing but green flags — patient, protective, attentive, and genuinely caring. The way he showed up for Jamie made their relationship feel safe and earned.
Overall, this was a heartfelt hockey romance with just the right balance of emotion, chemistry, and comfort. I’m already hoping for more in this world because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.
⭐ Rating: 4.75 stars
🌶 Spice: 2/5
Please check trigger warnings before reading, especially for miscarriage (it is very brief, but worth noting).
This was such a great, easy read — I flew through it in a single day and honestly didn’t want it to end. The pacing was smooth, the tension worked really well, and the emotional beats landed without feeling heavy or drawn out.
Jamie was a standout FMC for me. I loved her growth, especially watching her rediscover her self-worth and realize she deserves love. Her journey felt genuine and relatable. Carson, meanwhile, was nothing but green flags — patient, protective, attentive, and genuinely caring. The way he showed up for Jamie made their relationship feel safe and earned.
Overall, this was a heartfelt hockey romance with just the right balance of emotion, chemistry, and comfort. I’m already hoping for more in this world because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.
January 3, 2026
I wasn't sure what to expect jumping into a new sub-genre, but Home Advantage was a delightful introduction. It follows Jamie, a woman who works at a bookstore, who has sworn off men after a bad breakup, and Carson, a hockey player who becomes obsessed with her after seeing her in the stands at one of his games. It’s the classic “fake dating turned real dating” for both of their benefit.
The pacing was smooth, and I flew through it in a single day. There is a bit of drama and an emotional trigger warning regarding a miscarriage (please read triggers), but overall it stayed very sweet and lovely.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt sports romance with a bad boy MMC who is actually a total sweetheart, definitely add this to your TBR! I’m already looking forward to seeing what happens with Lila and Hudson in the next book.
The pacing was smooth, and I flew through it in a single day. There is a bit of drama and an emotional trigger warning regarding a miscarriage (please read triggers), but overall it stayed very sweet and lovely.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt sports romance with a bad boy MMC who is actually a total sweetheart, definitely add this to your TBR! I’m already looking forward to seeing what happens with Lila and Hudson in the next book.
January 7, 2026
Book Review 📚🔥
Home Advantage by Layne Wren
Omg I NEED the next book like… yesterday 😮💨🔥
The spice?? SPICYYYY. My jaw was literally on the floor 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jamie and Carson had me HOOKED, but my absolute FAVORITE moment was when Jamie accidentally wore one of Carson’s teammate’s jerseys to the game and Carson was NOT having it 😏 He basically stopped the game, had her take it off, and put HIS jersey on her instead. The possessive energy?? I was screaming 🫠👏🏼
The chemistry between Jamie and Carson was off the charts, the tension was perfect, and I devoured every page. If you love sports romance with bold spice and swoony moments, this one is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (jaw-dropping)
#SportsRomance #SpicyReads #HomeAdvantage #JamieAndCarson
Home Advantage by Layne Wren
Omg I NEED the next book like… yesterday 😮💨🔥
The spice?? SPICYYYY. My jaw was literally on the floor 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jamie and Carson had me HOOKED, but my absolute FAVORITE moment was when Jamie accidentally wore one of Carson’s teammate’s jerseys to the game and Carson was NOT having it 😏 He basically stopped the game, had her take it off, and put HIS jersey on her instead. The possessive energy?? I was screaming 🫠👏🏼
The chemistry between Jamie and Carson was off the charts, the tension was perfect, and I devoured every page. If you love sports romance with bold spice and swoony moments, this one is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (jaw-dropping)
#SportsRomance #SpicyReads #HomeAdvantage #JamieAndCarson
December 22, 2025
I was lucky to be given the chance to review Home Advantage of my own accord, through being offered an eARC.
A delightful hockey sports romance with a ‘bad-boy’ MMC and a hurt/guarded FMC. A good amount of drama, romance and spice.
The fake-dating aspect of this story was very short lived, it felt more like the FMC was just hoping to take things slow, or pretend she wasn’t really interested, even though they clearly were into each other. This didn’t detract from enjoying the book though.
Carse and Jamie were both great characters, and I enjoyed reading their story.
I was really interested in finding out what’s between Lila and Hudson, so book 2 is definitely on my radar.
A delightful hockey sports romance with a ‘bad-boy’ MMC and a hurt/guarded FMC. A good amount of drama, romance and spice.
The fake-dating aspect of this story was very short lived, it felt more like the FMC was just hoping to take things slow, or pretend she wasn’t really interested, even though they clearly were into each other. This didn’t detract from enjoying the book though.
Carse and Jamie were both great characters, and I enjoyed reading their story.
I was really interested in finding out what’s between Lila and Hudson, so book 2 is definitely on my radar.
December 22, 2025
I received Layne’s debut romance as an ARC and I honestly wouldn’t have ever guessed that it was her first romance!
This dual POV follows Jamie, who suffers a miscarriage and a breakup at the same time, and Carse, a professional hockey player who is trying to clean up his bad boy image in order to get endorsement deals. The two decide to fake date, but soon realize that there is nothing fake about their feelings or their relationship. Carse is willing to go to bat for Jamie any time she needs him, and he doesn’t care if it impacts his potential endorsement deals.
10/10 recommend this and cannot wait for the other 2 books in this series!
This dual POV follows Jamie, who suffers a miscarriage and a breakup at the same time, and Carse, a professional hockey player who is trying to clean up his bad boy image in order to get endorsement deals. The two decide to fake date, but soon realize that there is nothing fake about their feelings or their relationship. Carse is willing to go to bat for Jamie any time she needs him, and he doesn’t care if it impacts his potential endorsement deals.
10/10 recommend this and cannot wait for the other 2 books in this series!
December 25, 2025
For a debut author this book had everything I was looking for. Carson and Jamie's story (Joy/Carsey and Jam/Dawnie) gets straight to it.
I ate their story up. The hockey player who wants to change his image to a family guy has a fall in love at first sight moment with the cute, nerdy book loving girl and he is determined to make her his by whatever means.
This whirlwind, cutesy, fun loving romance wraps you up with warmth and love. You learn about there pasts but they plow through life by opening up to each other.
Layne has written this wonderfully and with so much love for the characters.
I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. 5+***!
I ate their story up. The hockey player who wants to change his image to a family guy has a fall in love at first sight moment with the cute, nerdy book loving girl and he is determined to make her his by whatever means.
This whirlwind, cutesy, fun loving romance wraps you up with warmth and love. You learn about there pasts but they plow through life by opening up to each other.
Layne has written this wonderfully and with so much love for the characters.
I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. 5+***!
December 26, 2025
If you're looking for spice this is the book for you! Home Advantage was a quick, but good read. I really enjoyed the storyline and the spice wasn't to bad either. The way the characters are described makes you feel like you can actually visualize them! I also really liked the side characters and look forward to their stories!
I do think there are a few parts of the book where the wording was a little strange.
I found the whole nickname situation kind of weird. Nicknames were given right off the bat without knowing each other and it was just a little strange to me.
Overall, I do think it was a good read it just could've used a little bit more to the story.
I do think there are a few parts of the book where the wording was a little strange.
I found the whole nickname situation kind of weird. Nicknames were given right off the bat without knowing each other and it was just a little strange to me.
Overall, I do think it was a good read it just could've used a little bit more to the story.
December 31, 2025
This was my very first arc book and I have to say I liked this one.
The chemistry between the fmc and mmc was good and I liked the spice that was added in here. I do think that that the low self esteem from the fmc is what makes me rank this book a little lower
I do think that there wasnt so much of a plot to this story except the happily ever after but i do like to read those books every once in while so this book came at the right timing.
Very excited to read lila and hudsons story because I’m a sucker for enemy to lover or anything related to that.
I’m sure that I will read the rest of the series because it is well written and a very fast read for me.
The chemistry between the fmc and mmc was good and I liked the spice that was added in here. I do think that that the low self esteem from the fmc is what makes me rank this book a little lower
I do think that there wasnt so much of a plot to this story except the happily ever after but i do like to read those books every once in while so this book came at the right timing.
Very excited to read lila and hudsons story because I’m a sucker for enemy to lover or anything related to that.
I’m sure that I will read the rest of the series because it is well written and a very fast read for me.
January 4, 2026
Chefs kiss! Throughly enjoyed this hockey romance book. It was everything I like. A man who falls hard and fast and a female mc who pretends but is secretly obsessed with him. Carson was phenomenal, he knew what he needed and made it happen. Also, a man who loves reading and challenges the heroine to reading competitions.
Jamie was a great female character and written very well. She was scared due to past experiences but allowed herself the opportunity to make her ex jealous. I loved when her and Carson fell in love and the pace of the relationship.
I wanted more! Can’t wait for the next book!
Jamie was a great female character and written very well. She was scared due to past experiences but allowed herself the opportunity to make her ex jealous. I loved when her and Carson fell in love and the pace of the relationship.
I wanted more! Can’t wait for the next book!
January 7, 2026
Very nice short novel.
Though it’s a fast read you get all the tropes, with the spice and the Happy Ever After.
The beginning is quite strong and I thought I’d be hard to go from there but nope, the intensity of the love story takes over.
I particularly enjoyed the setting of the story.
Tropes :
📖they read together 🔥
He falls first and hard
Love at first sight
A mature MMC 🔥🔥
Super spicy 🌶️ 🌶️
I found it sometimes difficult to go from one scene to another, the timeframe between the setting and the real beginning being VERY SHORT, it lacks credibility but is linked with the fast paced love story…
Overall a sweet nice read ✨
Though it’s a fast read you get all the tropes, with the spice and the Happy Ever After.
The beginning is quite strong and I thought I’d be hard to go from there but nope, the intensity of the love story takes over.
I particularly enjoyed the setting of the story.
Tropes :
📖they read together 🔥
He falls first and hard
Love at first sight
A mature MMC 🔥🔥
Super spicy 🌶️ 🌶️
I found it sometimes difficult to go from one scene to another, the timeframe between the setting and the real beginning being VERY SHORT, it lacks credibility but is linked with the fast paced love story…
Overall a sweet nice read ✨
January 15, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I can’t even believe this is a debut!! I really enjoyed this read and was so deep into the story I didn’t want to put it down. The characters each had their own growing and developing to do but showed that you don’t have to be perfect to be loved. The right person will be there for you as you grow and navigate difficult times. Also loved that the miscommunication lasted about 1 chapter/ 15 hours rather than being dragggeeddddd for chapters and a third act break up .
I can not wait for the next books in this serious!! Loved the peek into Hayden and Lila and seeing their dynamic already with hints as to what it will entail!
I can’t even believe this is a debut!! I really enjoyed this read and was so deep into the story I didn’t want to put it down. The characters each had their own growing and developing to do but showed that you don’t have to be perfect to be loved. The right person will be there for you as you grow and navigate difficult times. Also loved that the miscommunication lasted about 1 chapter/ 15 hours rather than being dragggeeddddd for chapters and a third act break up .
I can not wait for the next books in this serious!! Loved the peek into Hayden and Lila and seeing their dynamic already with hints as to what it will entail!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2025
She is on the heels of a miscarriage and a bad break up. He is on the ice during a game when he sees her in the stands and is completely mesmerized. What starts as a fake relationship to save his endorsements and get back at her cheating ex, quickly turns into something much more. The chemistry between them is amazing. I especially love how they both love reading. There was one tiny thing that didn’t sit well with me thus the 4 star rating. Overall I found the book a delight to read. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by story origin.
January 3, 2026
A beautiful warm and fuzzy book to start my 2026.
Jamie and Carson’s story is so sweet and lovely it gave me the warm and fuzzies. After yet another traumatic break up, Jamie swears off all men, but then Carson walks into her bookstore and life after seeing her in the stands at one of his games.
He falls first and is obssessed from day one. A slow burn book with heated moments as they ‘fake date’, their chemistry is 🔥🔥.
If you love sports/hockey romances where he falls first and they find their own family, this one is for you.
Jamie and Carson’s story is so sweet and lovely it gave me the warm and fuzzies. After yet another traumatic break up, Jamie swears off all men, but then Carson walks into her bookstore and life after seeing her in the stands at one of his games.
He falls first and is obssessed from day one. A slow burn book with heated moments as they ‘fake date’, their chemistry is 🔥🔥.
If you love sports/hockey romances where he falls first and they find their own family, this one is for you.
December 26, 2025
I am a huge hockey romance girlie so as soon as I saw this eARC opportunity I snagged it up and so glad I got chosen as an eARC reader, Thank you Layne Wren for this opportunity to eARC read for you.
If you are looking for a read to get you out of a reading slump, grab this one…this is a great debut book for Layne, I love the banter between the main characters and I love how there is no waiting around and this book gets right into it! I cant wait for the next in this series, I will definitely be reading more of her books! This book covers spice, hockey, fake dating, he falls first
If you are looking for a read to get you out of a reading slump, grab this one…this is a great debut book for Layne, I love the banter between the main characters and I love how there is no waiting around and this book gets right into it! I cant wait for the next in this series, I will definitely be reading more of her books! This book covers spice, hockey, fake dating, he falls first
December 27, 2025
okay i enjoyed this book and i can't wait to read the rest when they come out.
It's a slow burn but definitely has some spicy moments. I just wanted to give Jamie a hug because sometimes life is just to cruel to some people and boy did she get the short straw. Carson is such an understanding man but he does have is off points cough cough men bothering her. But can't all men be cavemen at times. The book doesn't pull any punches it starts off with a heavy topic as a forewarning for you.
It's a slow burn but definitely has some spicy moments. I just wanted to give Jamie a hug because sometimes life is just to cruel to some people and boy did she get the short straw. Carson is such an understanding man but he does have is off points cough cough men bothering her. But can't all men be cavemen at times. The book doesn't pull any punches it starts off with a heavy topic as a forewarning for you.
January 1, 2026
guys don’t listen to tiktok this had no plot and was so rushed the chemistry between the too basically nonexistent like come on now- they also get engaged in like 4 months of dating?!? don’t even get me started on the grammatical errors like you have one job? this felt like it was straight from wattpad and a 14 year old wrote it im not even gonna bother reading the rest of the series honestly such a disappointing read ⭐️⭐️
January 8, 2026
Five 🌟Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The emotions this book brought out. I felt so connected to the female character what she felt what she went through. This book was so hard to put down once I started reading it! If you love hockey romances this is the book for you! I highly recommend it! First time reading one of this authors books and definitely won’t be my last! Looking forward to her next book! You won’t regret reading it! Absolutely loved it!
The emotions this book brought out. I felt so connected to the female character what she felt what she went through. This book was so hard to put down once I started reading it! If you love hockey romances this is the book for you! I highly recommend it! First time reading one of this authors books and definitely won’t be my last! Looking forward to her next book! You won’t regret reading it! Absolutely loved it!
January 27, 2026
So Cute!
I am not normally an Insta love enthusiast but I absolutely adored Carson! I loved how loving and patient he was. I really liked Jamie as well. I liked the way her trauma was handled and it didn't become repetitive. I also enjoyed their shared love of books. There were definitely some cheesy parts but it didn't take away from the book. This was a super easy, spicy read.
I am not normally an Insta love enthusiast but I absolutely adored Carson! I loved how loving and patient he was. I really liked Jamie as well. I liked the way her trauma was handled and it didn't become repetitive. I also enjoyed their shared love of books. There were definitely some cheesy parts but it didn't take away from the book. This was a super easy, spicy read.
January 29, 2026
So bad it’s good
I couldn’t put it down. But kind of for a bad reason.
There is insta love from his side which is not really my cup of tea and the miscommunication thrope that I hate so much.
It’s a case of the : it’s so bad it’s good.
Very repetitive, Carse’s POV is clearly written by a women (he’s just too perfect to a point no man I know says this) and I wish we could have gotten a longer epilogue instead of the last scenes we had.
I couldn’t put it down. But kind of for a bad reason.
There is insta love from his side which is not really my cup of tea and the miscommunication thrope that I hate so much.
It’s a case of the : it’s so bad it’s good.
Very repetitive, Carse’s POV is clearly written by a women (he’s just too perfect to a point no man I know says this) and I wish we could have gotten a longer epilogue instead of the last scenes we had.
December 26, 2025
I am very appreciative of Layne Wren and their team for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Home Advantage!
This was such a cute, fast-paced hockey romance! I love how Carson is obsessed with Jamie! I really enjoyed how they worked together to build a safe and healthy relationship, and work through their miscommunication.
This was such a cute, fast-paced hockey romance! I love how Carson is obsessed with Jamie! I really enjoyed how they worked together to build a safe and healthy relationship, and work through their miscommunication.
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