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Virgina Dominion Hockey #1
The Sunshine Offensive
Not yet published
Expected 2 Apr 26She worked hard to keep her life quiet. She didn't expect a hockey player to blow it wide open.
Juliette Gianelli has built her world on intention—her small plant shop, her carefully managed routine, and the fierce love she has for her ten-year-old son. After one very public heartbreak involving a jumbotron at an ice hockey game, she's learned her lesson: be invisible, stay quiet, and whatever you do, stay away from hockey. Plants don't make headlines. Hockey players? They are the headlines.
Then the city assigns NHL star Sawyer Stockton to her shop for a mandatory community outreach program—whether she wants him or not.
He's 6'3" with an easy smile, relentless optimism, and the kind of charm that probably works on everyone else. He's loud. He's public. He's everything she's spent years avoiding. And he keeps almost knocking over her succulents.
But here’s the problem: Sawyer isn't actually the disaster she thinks he is.
He shows up on time. He learns the difference between a pothos and a philodendron. He's patient with her son, who thinks he's the coolest person alive. And somewhere between teaching him how to repot a fern and watching him win over her most skeptical customers, Juliette realizes she might be in trouble.
Because the more time they spend together, the harder it gets to remember why she swore off this kind of risk. But when old wounds resurface and the spotlight threatens to return, she must decide: keep hiding in the quiet—or trust that this time, she won't be standing in it alone.
The Sunshine Offensive is a closed-door grumpy sunshine hockey romance filled with sizzling chemistry, undeniable tension, and all the heat—without the spice!
Tropes in The Sunshine Offensive are:
- Grumpy / Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
- Forced Proximity
- Single Mom Romance
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Black Cat FMC
- Found Family
- Protective Hero
- Ice Hockey Romance
Juliette Gianelli has built her world on intention—her small plant shop, her carefully managed routine, and the fierce love she has for her ten-year-old son. After one very public heartbreak involving a jumbotron at an ice hockey game, she's learned her lesson: be invisible, stay quiet, and whatever you do, stay away from hockey. Plants don't make headlines. Hockey players? They are the headlines.
Then the city assigns NHL star Sawyer Stockton to her shop for a mandatory community outreach program—whether she wants him or not.
He's 6'3" with an easy smile, relentless optimism, and the kind of charm that probably works on everyone else. He's loud. He's public. He's everything she's spent years avoiding. And he keeps almost knocking over her succulents.
But here’s the problem: Sawyer isn't actually the disaster she thinks he is.
He shows up on time. He learns the difference between a pothos and a philodendron. He's patient with her son, who thinks he's the coolest person alive. And somewhere between teaching him how to repot a fern and watching him win over her most skeptical customers, Juliette realizes she might be in trouble.
Because the more time they spend together, the harder it gets to remember why she swore off this kind of risk. But when old wounds resurface and the spotlight threatens to return, she must decide: keep hiding in the quiet—or trust that this time, she won't be standing in it alone.
The Sunshine Offensive is a closed-door grumpy sunshine hockey romance filled with sizzling chemistry, undeniable tension, and all the heat—without the spice!
Tropes in The Sunshine Offensive are:
- Grumpy / Sunshine
- Opposites Attract
- Forced Proximity
- Single Mom Romance
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Black Cat FMC
- Found Family
- Protective Hero
- Ice Hockey Romance
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 2, 2026
4 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Anne Kemp
40 books443 followersAnne Kemp is a bestselling author of romantic comedies. She loves reading (and she doesn’t it ridiculously fast, too!), gluten-free baking (because everyone needs a hobby that makes them crazy), and finding time to binge-watch her favorite shows. She grew up in Maryland but made Los Angeles her home until she encountered her own real-life meet-cute at a friend's wedding where she ended up married to one of the groomsmen. For real.
Anne now lives on the Kapiti Coast in New Zealand, and even though she was married at Mt. Doom, no…she doesn’t have a Hobbit. However, she and her husband do have a terrier named George Clooney and when she’s not writing, she’s usually with them taking a long walk on the river by their home.
You can find Anne on her website - come say hi! She’d love to hear from you: www.annekemp.com
On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest: @missannekemp
On TikTok: @annekempauthor
You can always find her www.AnneKemp.com.
Anne now lives on the Kapiti Coast in New Zealand, and even though she was married at Mt. Doom, no…she doesn’t have a Hobbit. However, she and her husband do have a terrier named George Clooney and when she’s not writing, she’s usually with them taking a long walk on the river by their home.
You can find Anne on her website - come say hi! She’d love to hear from you: www.annekemp.com
On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest: @missannekemp
On TikTok: @annekempauthor
You can always find her www.AnneKemp.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
rcvd an advanced reader copy from the author.
We meet plant enthusiast Juliette so is a single mother to almost 10 year old Theo. she's had a rough time as a single parent whose husband was found on a kiss cam at a hockey game with a woman who was not her. We meet Sawyer, local professional hockey player who is now doing community service for the team...at a plant shop. Juliette doesn't want the attention of having an athlete in her store...it brings too much drama to her now drama-free life. what she doesn't count on is Sawyer being fun and pleasant plus her son loves him. the more time they spend together the more Juliette sees a different side of him but she doesn't know if her heart could take it. Sawyer is enjoying his time at the store and helping with videos as it helps bring ppl to Juliettes store. there is smtg about her that makes him happy and her son is amazing Lil dude. theo's dad is in town and wants to spend time with him much to Juliette's dismay bc she knows he won't be a father and show up. Sawyer is determined to make sure Juliette and Theo are taken care of. such a cute story with heart.
We meet plant enthusiast Juliette so is a single mother to almost 10 year old Theo. she's had a rough time as a single parent whose husband was found on a kiss cam at a hockey game with a woman who was not her. We meet Sawyer, local professional hockey player who is now doing community service for the team...at a plant shop. Juliette doesn't want the attention of having an athlete in her store...it brings too much drama to her now drama-free life. what she doesn't count on is Sawyer being fun and pleasant plus her son loves him. the more time they spend together the more Juliette sees a different side of him but she doesn't know if her heart could take it. Sawyer is enjoying his time at the store and helping with videos as it helps bring ppl to Juliettes store. there is smtg about her that makes him happy and her son is amazing Lil dude. theo's dad is in town and wants to spend time with him much to Juliette's dismay bc she knows he won't be a father and show up. Sawyer is determined to make sure Juliette and Theo are taken care of. such a cute story with heart.
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March 4, 2026I really enjoyed this one. The development of the characters and I really enjoyed Sawyer and her son’s sweet conversations. Also the change in each of them to healing. Beautiful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Anne Kemp delivers a charming start to her Virginia Dominion Hockey series with The Sunshine Offensive. Having enjoyed several of Anne's previous works, I had high expectations for Sawyer’s story, and it did not disappoint. I loved seeing Sawyer grow from the character we first met in Offside Secrets into a leading man who stole Juliette’s heart.
The story follows Sawyer, a pro hockey player, and Juliette, a protective single mother and business owner. What begins as a mandatory community outreach assignment evolves into a touching journey of healing and falling in love. Kemp handles themes of trauma and learning to love again with great care, making the eventual HEA feel truly earned.
I have read several books by Kemp and one thing she writes really well are the side characters and their friendships with the main characters. The story perfectly balances the witty camaraderie of Sawyer’s hockey world—featuring Campbell, Ty, Owen, and Liam—with the grounded, touching support system surrounding Juliette and her son, Theo.
I recommend this for readers looking for a sweet, closed-door hockey romance featuring dual POVs and authentic character growth.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Some of my favorite lines:
“I look at the man who’s just crashed into my carefully controlled life like a hockey puck through the glass — smiling, unbothered, already standing in the wreckage like it’s exactly where he belongs.”
“Our fingers brush as I take it — barely there, the lightest contact — and it still feels like a jolt straight through my chest. Electric. Immediate. Entirely unexpected and deeply wanted.”
“She sighs and I’m undone.”
“You don’t chase what’s easy, you fight for what matters. If it scares you, that’s usually a sign it’s real.”
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I am a huge romance fan, and series are always a favorite of mine because I love spending time in a world with interconnected characters. Lately I have also been completely hooked on sports romances, especially hockey ones, so this book felt like it was made just for me. Since I had already read “Checking Mr. Wrong” and “Offside Secrets,” I had a feeling I knew the kind of story I was getting into, and I was ready for it. I am happy to say it absolutely delivered.
This book kicks off a new series, but those who have read the “River City Renegades” books will recognize a few familiar faces. Sawyer was already one of my favorite characters from that series, so I was thrilled to see him step into the spotlight here. Getting to know him better made the story even more enjoyable. Juliette was also incredibly easy to root for. As a single mom trying to balance life and financial pressures, she felt very real and relatable. Watching her slowly find moments of relief and support along the way made me even more invested in her journey.
The connection between Sawyer and Juliette felt genuine from the start, and I appreciated how their relationship developed over time. Without giving too much away, I liked seeing Juliette work through the doubts and fears that came from her past experiences. Those moments made the emotional payoff even more satisfying and showed just how much both characters had grown.
All in all, I really loved this book. It had heart, great chemistry, and characters I already want to spend more time with. If this is the start of what is coming from this new series, I am definitely all in. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
This book kicks off a new series, but those who have read the “River City Renegades” books will recognize a few familiar faces. Sawyer was already one of my favorite characters from that series, so I was thrilled to see him step into the spotlight here. Getting to know him better made the story even more enjoyable. Juliette was also incredibly easy to root for. As a single mom trying to balance life and financial pressures, she felt very real and relatable. Watching her slowly find moments of relief and support along the way made me even more invested in her journey.
The connection between Sawyer and Juliette felt genuine from the start, and I appreciated how their relationship developed over time. Without giving too much away, I liked seeing Juliette work through the doubts and fears that came from her past experiences. Those moments made the emotional payoff even more satisfying and showed just how much both characters had grown.
All in all, I really loved this book. It had heart, great chemistry, and characters I already want to spend more time with. If this is the start of what is coming from this new series, I am definitely all in. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book for my honest review here! I love Anne’s books and was so excited to read this—let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This book covers so many topics women face in a way that is real, supportive, encouraging and entertaining.
The Sunshine Offensive by Anne Kemp is a sweet, closed door hockey romcom by Anne Kemp. The story centers on single mom Juliette and NHL star Sawyer, and is told from their dual POV.
Juliette’s single mom life is a big focus of the book, which I really enjoyed. Sawyer’s charm, charisma and sunshine is the perfect offset to Juliette’s struggles, and the banter and swoon between them made me simultaneously laugh out loud and blush hard ❤️🔥
The Sunshine Offensive is a light and quick read that still has plenty of depth and feeling. While Juliette and Sawyer’s relationship drives the story, there were so many great elements to the book! Juliette’s struggles as a single mom were relatable and real, but not overwhelming. I loved the chemistry and tension between Juliette and Sawyer, and how this fun, hilarious and HEA also navigates found family, grief, and starting over.
Some things I really enjoyed about this book:
🪴Juliette’s growth and ability to trust herself and start again
🧑🧑🧒🧒 The found family for Juliette and Sawyer
💕 Single Mom/parent struggles
🤍Inclusive representation in side characters
🐈⬛ FMC black cat/MMC golden retriever vibes
If you are a fan of romcoms, found family, wary heroines, single-mom tropes, or hockey romance, you will love this book! I highly recommend it!
The Sunshine Offensive by Anne Kemp is a sweet, closed door hockey romcom by Anne Kemp. The story centers on single mom Juliette and NHL star Sawyer, and is told from their dual POV.
Juliette’s single mom life is a big focus of the book, which I really enjoyed. Sawyer’s charm, charisma and sunshine is the perfect offset to Juliette’s struggles, and the banter and swoon between them made me simultaneously laugh out loud and blush hard ❤️🔥
The Sunshine Offensive is a light and quick read that still has plenty of depth and feeling. While Juliette and Sawyer’s relationship drives the story, there were so many great elements to the book! Juliette’s struggles as a single mom were relatable and real, but not overwhelming. I loved the chemistry and tension between Juliette and Sawyer, and how this fun, hilarious and HEA also navigates found family, grief, and starting over.
Some things I really enjoyed about this book:
🪴Juliette’s growth and ability to trust herself and start again
🧑🧑🧒🧒 The found family for Juliette and Sawyer
💕 Single Mom/parent struggles
🤍Inclusive representation in side characters
🐈⬛ FMC black cat/MMC golden retriever vibes
If you are a fan of romcoms, found family, wary heroines, single-mom tropes, or hockey romance, you will love this book! I highly recommend it!
March 14, 2026
This book was such a sweet read! Juliette is a single mom running a small plant shop, and she's built her whole world around staying invisible and quiet. After experiencing a very public heartbreak involving a jumbotron at a hockey game, she's understandably jaded and traumatized. She struggles to trust anyone, especially hockey players. So when NHL star Sawyer Stockton gets assigned to her shop for mandatory community outreach, she's not exactly thrilled. He's everything she's spent years avoiding: loud, public, and constantly almost knocking over her succulents.
But Sawyer is so much more than she expects. Yes, he's fun-loving and charming, but he's also incredibly patient and mature. He shows up on time, learns the difference between plants, and most importantly, he's absolutely wonderful with Juliette's son. I loved watching how he cared for both of them without pushing or rushing anything. He was willing to take his time and follow Juliette's lead in the relationship, which made him even more swoon-worthy. The way he slowly broke down her walls was so well done. He proved through his actions that he was trustworthy and that not all hockey players are the same.
This is a grumpy/sunshine romance that delivers on the sweetness without being saccharine. The chemistry between Juliette and Sawyer is fantastic, and there are definitely some swoony kisses that made me smile. But it stays clean and cute throughout, which I really appreciated. The forced proximity element of him working at her shop creates some great banter and tender moments. If you love hockey romances with single parent storylines and patient heroes who know how to win over both mom and kid, you'll want to read this one. Side note: there is an LGBTQ+ side character in the novel.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
5 stars
But Sawyer is so much more than she expects. Yes, he's fun-loving and charming, but he's also incredibly patient and mature. He shows up on time, learns the difference between plants, and most importantly, he's absolutely wonderful with Juliette's son. I loved watching how he cared for both of them without pushing or rushing anything. He was willing to take his time and follow Juliette's lead in the relationship, which made him even more swoon-worthy. The way he slowly broke down her walls was so well done. He proved through his actions that he was trustworthy and that not all hockey players are the same.
This is a grumpy/sunshine romance that delivers on the sweetness without being saccharine. The chemistry between Juliette and Sawyer is fantastic, and there are definitely some swoony kisses that made me smile. But it stays clean and cute throughout, which I really appreciated. The forced proximity element of him working at her shop creates some great banter and tender moments. If you love hockey romances with single parent storylines and patient heroes who know how to win over both mom and kid, you'll want to read this one. Side note: there is an LGBTQ+ side character in the novel.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved The Sunshine Offensive, a clean hockey rom-com by Anne Kemp. This story pulls you in right from the very beginning and keeps you hooked all the way through.
Juliette has been through a lot in her life, and because of that she’s understandably guarded. Trust doesn’t come easily to her—especially when it comes to anyone connected to hockey. Protecting herself and, more importantly, her ten-year-old son is always her top priority.
Sawyer, on the other hand, enters the partnership with Juliette expecting it to be nothing more than a way to repair his bad PR. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something more as Sawyer begins to realize there’s much more to Juliette—and their partnership—than just business.
This book balances humor and heart perfectly. You’ll find yourself laughing one moment and swooning the next as the story unfolds. The chemistry between the characters makes their journey both entertaining and meaningful.
It’s also a closed-door romance, making it a great choice for readers who prefer clean stories. There are a few mild swear words, but overall the book keeps the romance sweet and wholesome.
If you enjoy sports rom-coms, strong but guarded heroines, charming hockey players, and heartfelt moments, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
Juliette has been through a lot in her life, and because of that she’s understandably guarded. Trust doesn’t come easily to her—especially when it comes to anyone connected to hockey. Protecting herself and, more importantly, her ten-year-old son is always her top priority.
Sawyer, on the other hand, enters the partnership with Juliette expecting it to be nothing more than a way to repair his bad PR. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something more as Sawyer begins to realize there’s much more to Juliette—and their partnership—than just business.
This book balances humor and heart perfectly. You’ll find yourself laughing one moment and swooning the next as the story unfolds. The chemistry between the characters makes their journey both entertaining and meaningful.
It’s also a closed-door romance, making it a great choice for readers who prefer clean stories. There are a few mild swear words, but overall the book keeps the romance sweet and wholesome.
If you enjoy sports rom-coms, strong but guarded heroines, charming hockey players, and heartfelt moments, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every time I wonder how will Anne Kemp make me fall in love with more of her characters, she never ceases to amaze me!
I was bummed when The River City Renegade series was over (didn't know it was only going to be a trilogy), but love how it ties in with the Dominion now. She always takes a different stance with her female characters, from autoimmune disease, to shy and quiet, to strong leaders... and single mom Juliette does not disappoint. A small business owner with quirky friends and co-workers helps bring this story together - and if you're wondering what this has to do with a hockey rom-com, you should ask the plant that Sawyer assaulted during a press conference. Now he needs a PR miracle and of course his teammates won't let him live it down.
So what can go wrong with a little good PR, hockey teammates egging him on, and somehow trying to win over Juliette who is petrified of jumbotrons?
With this now being an NHL team (as opposed to the previous AHL team), I can't wait to see what players come back, these new characters who we are introduced to, and how they all fit in in Alexandria, VA!
I was bummed when The River City Renegade series was over (didn't know it was only going to be a trilogy), but love how it ties in with the Dominion now. She always takes a different stance with her female characters, from autoimmune disease, to shy and quiet, to strong leaders... and single mom Juliette does not disappoint. A small business owner with quirky friends and co-workers helps bring this story together - and if you're wondering what this has to do with a hockey rom-com, you should ask the plant that Sawyer assaulted during a press conference. Now he needs a PR miracle and of course his teammates won't let him live it down.
So what can go wrong with a little good PR, hockey teammates egging him on, and somehow trying to win over Juliette who is petrified of jumbotrons?
With this now being an NHL team (as opposed to the previous AHL team), I can't wait to see what players come back, these new characters who we are introduced to, and how they all fit in in Alexandria, VA!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 rounded up to 4
Juliette is just trying to survive following public heartbreak and painful divorce. She wants to be there for her son while also building her business. When the local business bureau wants to pair her up with Sawyer for some downtown/hockey cross promotion, she's skeptical. But Sawyer shows up for Juliette both in her store and in her personal life, and before long, she finds herself falling for him. But is she willing to risk her heart again?
Read if you like:
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Single Mom
-Golden Retriever MMC
-Found Family
-Sweet Romance (No Spice)
The Sunshine Offensive was so cute! I loved Sawyer so much. Or should I say Plant Daddy. His golden retriever energy really made this book shine. I loved the way he continually showed up for Juliette, particularly when she was running scared from her own feelings. He continually had me swooning. This was a great way to kick off a new series. I'm excited for more.
Juliette is just trying to survive following public heartbreak and painful divorce. She wants to be there for her son while also building her business. When the local business bureau wants to pair her up with Sawyer for some downtown/hockey cross promotion, she's skeptical. But Sawyer shows up for Juliette both in her store and in her personal life, and before long, she finds herself falling for him. But is she willing to risk her heart again?
Read if you like:
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Single Mom
-Golden Retriever MMC
-Found Family
-Sweet Romance (No Spice)
The Sunshine Offensive was so cute! I loved Sawyer so much. Or should I say Plant Daddy. His golden retriever energy really made this book shine. I loved the way he continually showed up for Juliette, particularly when she was running scared from her own feelings. He continually had me swooning. This was a great way to kick off a new series. I'm excited for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Slow Build, Opposites, Forced Proximity with Found Family and Amazing Characters! Loved It!!
I loved this book for so many reasons - it was well written, witty and told from dual POV so the reader really understands both of the MC's feelings and their growth. The plot kept the pages turning, the background characters were well developed and most importantly to me was that I actually liked all of them (except for the yucky "Ex" of course). I also loved how Sawyer (and even his teammates) kept showing up for Juliette and Theo even when he wasn't obligated to for PR reasons and I kept hoping for the "lightbulb moment" when they would realize their feelings. I can't wait for the next book in the series - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I loved this book for so many reasons - it was well written, witty and told from dual POV so the reader really understands both of the MC's feelings and their growth. The plot kept the pages turning, the background characters were well developed and most importantly to me was that I actually liked all of them (except for the yucky "Ex" of course). I also loved how Sawyer (and even his teammates) kept showing up for Juliette and Theo even when he wasn't obligated to for PR reasons and I kept hoping for the "lightbulb moment" when they would realize their feelings. I can't wait for the next book in the series - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
How can you not be excited about a new hockey romance series ?!? New team but with overlapping characters from the River City Renegades series!!
Sawyer is a hockey player who has a slight image problem. Juliette is a single mom who owns a plant shop and reluctantly agrees to have Sawyer volunteer in her shop as part of a community outreach project. Juliette is focused on keeping her store afloat and taking care of her son and Sawyer is focused on his hockey career but they can’t fight their connection - even though they try and have a lot of obstacles….
Some of my favorites:
- team group chat
- cake disaster rescue
- new memories with the Jumbotron
- father/son brunch
- birthday surprises
- Charlie and Vivian
- Plant Daddy
Can’t wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Sawyer is a hockey player who has a slight image problem. Juliette is a single mom who owns a plant shop and reluctantly agrees to have Sawyer volunteer in her shop as part of a community outreach project. Juliette is focused on keeping her store afloat and taking care of her son and Sawyer is focused on his hockey career but they can’t fight their connection - even though they try and have a lot of obstacles….
Some of my favorites:
- team group chat
- cake disaster rescue
- new memories with the Jumbotron
- father/son brunch
- birthday surprises
- Charlie and Vivian
- Plant Daddy
Can’t wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Thank you to Anne Kemp for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!**
I really enjoyed this book! I can't think of an Anne Kemp book I've read that I haven't enjoyed and finished in, like, a day. This was certainly no exception!
All of the characters were great, and I loved them so much. Sawyer was so sweet and considerate and patient. Juliette was so considerate of others and also super sweet. I cared about all of them, which made the story more compelling.
The plot was super interesting and very heart-wrenchingly stressful. I devoured this book so quickly. Plus, this book is really clean both sexually and language-wise, which I appreciated! The story is just a little bit cliche, and I think the plot drags a little sometimes. However, the book is still really good.
I would definitely recommend this book! It was such a fun and cute, quick read.
I really enjoyed this book! I can't think of an Anne Kemp book I've read that I haven't enjoyed and finished in, like, a day. This was certainly no exception!
All of the characters were great, and I loved them so much. Sawyer was so sweet and considerate and patient. Juliette was so considerate of others and also super sweet. I cared about all of them, which made the story more compelling.
The plot was super interesting and very heart-wrenchingly stressful. I devoured this book so quickly. Plus, this book is really clean both sexually and language-wise, which I appreciated! The story is just a little bit cliche, and I think the plot drags a little sometimes. However, the book is still really good.
I would definitely recommend this book! It was such a fun and cute, quick read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book. It's so much more than another hockey book! It's a story about surviving an ex that didn't value his wife or son, and frankly probably never will.
It's about the two left behind by betrayal, almost ten year old Theo, and his mom, Juliette. She owns a plant and stationary store, (Leaf and Letter) that joins a City Outreach group. This organization pairs up various businesses to increase visibility. Leaf and Letter is paired with the Dominion Hockey team and hockey star, Sawyer. Be ready for all kinds of fun!
I enjoyed the gradual friendships formed, the way Sawyer helped Julie and Theo wherever he was needed. Fun hockey scenes? You betcha...and so much more! I loved this book and am looking forward to more in the series.
It's about the two left behind by betrayal, almost ten year old Theo, and his mom, Juliette. She owns a plant and stationary store, (Leaf and Letter) that joins a City Outreach group. This organization pairs up various businesses to increase visibility. Leaf and Letter is paired with the Dominion Hockey team and hockey star, Sawyer. Be ready for all kinds of fun!
I enjoyed the gradual friendships formed, the way Sawyer helped Julie and Theo wherever he was needed. Fun hockey scenes? You betcha...and so much more! I loved this book and am looking forward to more in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I devoured this book and absolutely adored Sawyer and Juliette’s story, oh and of course Theo too! Everything single thing about this book was meant to make you smile and believe in love. Everything except David that is. But that’s okay because Sawyer more than makes up for his behavior. I love how he steps in there for Theo when it truly matters, but from the beginning he was already there wasn’t he? And the way he is with Juliette, be still my heart.
This charming hockey player and guarded plant shop owner with the her cute as a button son will steal your heart for sure. This is a wonderfully romantic, sweet, and yes sometimes funny love story that brings out all the good emotions and makes you crave their HEA.
I loved it and can’t wait for Vivian and Ty’s book next.
This charming hockey player and guarded plant shop owner with the her cute as a button son will steal your heart for sure. This is a wonderfully romantic, sweet, and yes sometimes funny love story that brings out all the good emotions and makes you crave their HEA.
I loved it and can’t wait for Vivian and Ty’s book next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished this book, and I could not put it down. I look forward to reading more in this series, and more from this author. This story has all the elements of an excellent romcom. Forced proximity, a handsome hockey star and a single mom; both trying to figure their lives; both struggling with different situations. It is written with humor--lighthearted and fun, and I couldn't help but connect with the characters and scenes. If only there was a Leaf & Letter in my own town. I would recommend this book to any one that is looking for a clean, quick, easy read. It would be perfect for a beach read, or even a rainy day read. Thank you to the author for giving me a first peek at such a great book! I received this as an ARC, and my opinions are my own.
March 8, 2026
I loved this story that is just as cute and adorable as the cover, isn’t it cute? The story was an emotional journey for me, it had me laughing out loud at the banter and humor, then crying tears at the sweet and tender moments that Sawyer had for Juliette and Leo, her son. Juliette loves plants, you can see that in her store. Sawyer, a hockey player, is assigned to do service for the store as part of the Dominion Hockey team plan. This story is simply delightful, with well-developed characters, including characters we read about in previous stories, wonderful storyline with character growth. If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. A book I highly recommend reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sawyer is Mr green flag personified, despite her best efforts, black cat Juliette fell hard for him, and who wouldn’t?! He is a dream boat, and those text messages he writes? Gah! My heart!! What a gorgeous man inside and out. Then there’s the beautiful Juliette, she’s been through the wringer with her ex and was so hesitant about Sawyer, but he still managed to work his way in. Loved the chemistry these two have, and it wouldn’t have been the same without little Theo, what a chatterbox! Lovely closed door hockey romance, I can’t wait to read more from Sawyers teammates!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 18, 2026
The Sunshine Offensive by Anne Kemp was such a fun, feel-good hockey romance.
I’ve read a few of Anne Kemp’s books before and she really doesn’t disappoint. This one stood out to me even more because of the setting being close to my hometown, which made it extra fun to read — plus the little nod to the jumbotron incident had me laughing.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine dynamic between Juliette and Sawyer. He was such a golden retriever energy hero, and watching him slowly break down her walls (and win over her son 🥹) was so sweet.
It had great chemistry, emotional moments, and just enough tension without being overly heavy. Overall, a really enjoyable read and a solid 4 stars for me! 🏒✨
I’ve read a few of Anne Kemp’s books before and she really doesn’t disappoint. This one stood out to me even more because of the setting being close to my hometown, which made it extra fun to read — plus the little nod to the jumbotron incident had me laughing.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine dynamic between Juliette and Sawyer. He was such a golden retriever energy hero, and watching him slowly break down her walls (and win over her son 🥹) was so sweet.
It had great chemistry, emotional moments, and just enough tension without being overly heavy. Overall, a really enjoyable read and a solid 4 stars for me! 🏒✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
This is such a wonderful story!
The ending was so sweet and the characters are all very distinct and vibrant. I really love how Sawyer knows that Juliette cannot simply move on from her past trauma and instead of swooping in like a hero he stands by her as she overcomes her struggles. It is so sweet how hard Juliette tries to give Theo a beautiful life, she is such a loving mother! This story is really intriguing, I finished it in one day! Highly recommended!
(I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review)
The ending was so sweet and the characters are all very distinct and vibrant. I really love how Sawyer knows that Juliette cannot simply move on from her past trauma and instead of swooping in like a hero he stands by her as she overcomes her struggles. It is so sweet how hard Juliette tries to give Theo a beautiful life, she is such a loving mother! This story is really intriguing, I finished it in one day! Highly recommended!
(I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Juliette, the single mom of a 10-year-old, owns a struggling plant & stationary shop. When the Dominions Hockey PR team decides to team up some of the hockey players with local businesses, Juliette is asked to have Sawyer help in her shop for a few weeks. His sunshine and earnestness chase some of the gray clouds away from Juliette's life. He does what he can to care for her, her shop, her son, and her employee.
Sawyer is easy to love and swoon for. I love how he both sees and shows up for Juliette and Theo with steady and constant care.
Sawyer is easy to love and swoon for. I love how he both sees and shows up for Juliette and Theo with steady and constant care.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was a delight. I may or may not of had a few teary moments throughout. Full applause to all the single mums out there, you do an amazing job and deserve all the happiness in the world in whatever form that looks like for you. I loved both the MCs and all of the secondary characters, I cannot wait for the rest of the series.
❤️Single mum
💙Amazing bestie
💚Plant daddy 😂🌿
💜Shop sidekick
🍃🌿🌱☘️ I feel like I need a snake plant now, sounds like I could manage not killing that one!
❤️Single mum
💙Amazing bestie
💚Plant daddy 😂🌿
💜Shop sidekick
🍃🌿🌱☘️ I feel like I need a snake plant now, sounds like I could manage not killing that one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were likeable and well developed. The story line was different but still predictably happy. It was sweet but still built tension and kept me engaged throughout the whole book. Highly recommend reading this book. I will admit I am a fan of this author and typically enjoy reading her books.
I received this book as an ARC but the opinion is solely mine and not influenced by that. Really good sweet read.
I received this book as an ARC but the opinion is solely mine and not influenced by that. Really good sweet read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this sweet second chance romance. Juliette and her son, Theo, are loveable characters. She's trying hard to stabilize their lives after she learned that her husband was cheating on her in a very dramatic way. Sawyer is a super hockey player with a somewhat soiled reputation. You never know what's hiding behind the facade that is on the surface. You need to get to know the real person that is hiding behind the facade. A great life lesson for anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Not your typical hockey romance- it’s better!
Plenty of hockey action, so much swoon. Juliette and Sawyer are funny and entertaining. He has to learn her world and she has to learn his. Laughed til I cried, then cried some real tears along with the characters at the real life hard experiences they face. I love a good hockey romance, but this one raises the bar.
Plenty of hockey action, so much swoon. Juliette and Sawyer are funny and entertaining. He has to learn her world and she has to learn his. Laughed til I cried, then cried some real tears along with the characters at the real life hard experiences they face. I love a good hockey romance, but this one raises the bar.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Sawyer and Juliette! I laughed and cried and cheered for them and the Dominion hockey team. Sawyer is solid, knows what it means to show up and he also when to hold back. Juliette is a strong , smart single mom trying to figure out how to keep going when it feels like the world is against you. Anne once again writes a suck you in page turner
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a lovely read. I found it to be relatively unique and it was very well written. I have read several other books by this author and I like her style. This was absolutely a solid hit. I cannot wait to read more in this series!
I received an advance copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
She just want for her life to be easier, a single mom with a business in dire need of a money boost. He just need to clean his image after a plant incident after a hockey game. Can the Juliette and Sawyer work together, mend their differences and have a future together? Funny, sweet and full of friendship, family found and hockey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Sunshine Offensive is the first installment of Anne Kemp's brand new hockey series. The book tells the story of single mum Juliette & hockey player Sawyer, who is a former Renegades player, and how they find each other. Theo and Charlie are hilarious. This book is a very promising opening for the Dominions!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the reverse sunshine dynamic between Juliette and sawyer. I also really enjoyed all of the side characters they were great. So many sweet moments. Loved the way that sawyer was there for Theo and how he cared about both Juliette and Theo. This was a really fun hockey romance.
March 6, 2026
I absolutely, totally loved this book. It was a tad bit of a emotional roller coaster because I went from laughing to angry to aww a lot. You can’t help but fall in love with these characters. I cheered and booed for them. I love Theo. I can’t wait for the next one.
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