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Midtown Brotherhood #1

The Girl with Hearts

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Henrik Rylander doesn’t just participate in Manhattan’s dating scene—he owns the exclusive rights to it… As the newly-minted captain of the New York Rangers hockey team, Henrik’s coach wants him to clean up his reputation. But Henrik isn’t quite ready to give up charming panties off co-eds, so he decides to indulge in one last night of uninhibited freedom. Leila Blakely has never been the “cry into your Baskin-Robbins” type… When she figures out her boyfriend has been cheating, she has only one objective—vengeance. Conveniently, the jerk’s arch-nemesis and her secret college crush, Henrik Rylander, is in town. She cleverly surprises Henrik in his hotel room and makes him an offer consisting of sex, lies, and the bathroom wall at the Regency. So what if she forgot to mention she was a virgin? If their secret gets out, it will make headlines. Guaranteed… Deflowering the little sister of the most volatile enforcer in the NHL—who also happens to be his best friend—is a recipe for disaster. Henrik decides to ditch his horn-dog stigma to quell any suspicion and embarks on a mission to befriend Leila, only to be served a big slice of humble pie. Leila isn’t buying Henrik’s nice-guy act, though she can’t deny their attraction. But Henrik isn’t acting, and he’s ready to confront his feelings for the feisty girl with the heart tattoos. However, Henrik soon discovers there’s much more at stake than his reputation and the status of his bromance with Leila’s brother. Earning Leila’s trust might be the key to saving his career…and her life.

274 pages, Paperback

First published November 3, 2015

48 people are currently reading
760 people want to read

About the author

Savannah Blevins

12 books75 followers
Savannah was born in Hyden, Kentucky. She received her M.S in Speech Language Pathology from The University of Mississippi in 2009. She’s been writing since the early age of nine when she begged her parents for a type writer for Christmas.

She now lives in Corbin, Ky with her husband of eight years, John, and their two wonderful daughters, Delilah and Gracie.

When she isn’t working, or running after her kids, she spends her free time traveling the country with her husband. There is nothing better than a day of football in the grove, a late night of basketball at Rupp Arena or slapping the glass to celebrate another Washington Capitals goal.

She is a strong believer that with enough hard work and determination you can accomplish anything.

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5 stars
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47 (23%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,814 reviews5,112 followers
July 30, 2017
2.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This is a tough book to rate. It started with a boom and then seemed to fizzle out. I liked the overall premise, but I felt that it was lacking. I also found the h to be kind of annoying in her caring for the H but also being really judgemental and pushing the H away and not taking the official step into a romantic relationship . I think I was leaning more to the "didn't like it" than "just ok" which made it a 2.5 star rating.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Leila and Henrik's story. They've known each other through Leila's brother, Austin, who happens to be Henrik's teammate and best friend. One night, Leila goes to Henrik's hotel room on a revenge mission against her cheating boyfriend and gives her virginity to Henrik. They've known each other for years, and have had a love/hate type relationship (that stems from a crush that they've both been harboring for each other). After this encounter, Leila moves to NY and in with Henrik's little brother (who also happens to be her best friend and lives next door to Henrik). He decides that he is ready to pursue her, and when that fails he decides that he wants to become friends with her. There are some self revelations, some conflicts, and some sweet times...and the couple get their HFN ending.

POV: This alternated between Leila and Henrik's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Ok. Really abrupt ending for my tastes. I needed more time with them as a couple.

Instalove: No. They've known each other for years, and have always had feelings for each other but didn't recognize them as love. There was some good development into the "I love you" stage.

H rating: 4 stars. Henrik. I liked him. I think he made the story. He has the past of a manho, but he had his reasons. He had a come to light moment at the beginning of the book, and he really tried to look at his behaviors in a different light and change. He came out to be an overall good guy.

h rating: 2 stars. Leila. She was kind of judge mental and rude about Henrik's past, and seemed closed minded about finding out his true intentions. I wish she didn't keep her secret for so long either.

Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.

Heat level: Low. One scene at the beginning and a few kissing scenes towards the end.

Descriptive sex: Yes.

Safe sex: I don't remember any mention of safe sex practices.

OW/OM drama: Really minimal. The H's ex shows up towards the end of the book and causes some issues, but it doesn't effect the h and H's relationship at all.

Sex scene with OW or OM:

Cheating:

Possible Triggers:

Closure: This had some closure, but i really wanted more! We didn't have any time with them as an official couple, and I would call the ending HFN.

How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.

Safety: Safe with exceptions.
Profile Image for aikaterine.
645 reviews51 followers
September 29, 2020
The pages of this books flew by so easily and effortlessly! It was actually among the most enjoyable reads I have had! I loved this book right from the very start, I loved the heroes, the way the events unfolded and the way they were narrated and explained. Everything was so smoothly described that I found myself unable to put the book down!

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It all starts when Leila, a young girl, who is quite more innocent than what she might originally seem to be, approaches Henrik, her four-year crush, hoping for an one night of no strings attached, right after her painful break up with her boyfriend. The womanizer Henrik cannot decline this offer, being aware of the deep attraction he feels for his best friend's little sister! But, what starts at this night as a harmless one night stand, will soon evolve to be something more for both parts!

Henrik soon starts to realize that he wants to spend more time with Leila, even if that means no sex for them, and a strictly friendly relationship. I just loved the way he tried to prove to her how honest he is and how he feels about their arrangement. Both characters reacted very realistically, with Leila at first being doubtful a relationship like that could work between them, considering his previous womanizing habits. After a while, she becomes thoughtful, but more open to the concept of spending more time with him. The whole process of the evolving of their relationship was so realistic and truthful, it made me connect with both characters and realize the way they felt in more depth!

I loved Leila's strong personality and the way she endured her condition, considering the fact she knew all along that she suffered from it and needed to take medication, but at the same time, she didn't want anyone to know about it and quite possibly pity her!

Henrik was a very nice character, and all this effort to convince both Leila, and her brother and his best-friend, Austin, that he is not willing to hurt her feelings, just made him all the more adorable in my eyes! And, I also loved the way he accepted his brother and didn't mind his keeping his sexual orientation a secret from him for so long!

All in all, 5 stars for one of the most enjoyable and adorable stories!

Originally posted on Book-o-Craze, on a tour hosted by HEA Book Tours.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,914 reviews6 followers
June 7, 2016
2.5 rounded to 3.

Normally, stories where the h pines away for her older brother's bestie are a pet peeve of mine. That kind of angsty read usually ends up making me frustrated and angry. Then I read the reviews on how great Blevins' writing was, so I decided to take a chance.

After reading this book, I have to admit I'm conflicted. On the one hand, the beginning of the book was hard for me to read. It wasn't a good situation, I didn't find any pleasure in reading it, and I wanted to put it down. However, all the glowing reviews for this book lingered in the back of my mind, and I convinced myself to give it two more chapters before I marked this as a DNF.

Blevins' writing is really great. Not only did she manage to make me care about the MCs (which is honestly a miracle), she elevated their story through flashbacks (yet another one of my pet peeves) and tight writing. The story was very insular. There were few characters in it, which made it easy to focus on the MCs' story. I didn't get the feeling that she included secondary characters just so that there would be more stories to tell in a series. Each character actually added value to the story. I would have liked to seen the MCs more developed, but still enjoyed their story nonetheless.

I do wish that we didn't begin this book with the inciting incident. It was a little off putting and didn't make me like either MC very much. The H's growth, however, made this story for me. I wanted to see how he would change, what he would be willing to do, how much he would sacrifice to make things right with the h. She was my least favourite character in this story. I felt bad for her situation, but the way she handled it wasn't so great. Overall, an enjoyable read if you can get over the first two chapters.

What I liked:
1) The dual povs.
2) The H. Even though I pretty much found him disgusting in the beginning of the story, he faced some pretty terrible truths about himself and really wanted to change. What he was willing to sacrifice said a lot about his underlying character.
3) The secondary characters.
4) The writing. I appreciated the economy of words and third person narrative. The chapters titles were fun.

What I didn't like:
1) I know I've said it already, but the first two chapters were sad. Plus I'm really tired of the manwhore thing.
2) No epilogue.
3) The h. She was weak and made some really bad choices.
Profile Image for Sm.
437 reviews10 followers
April 10, 2016
I liked it-ish, but I wanted to like it more
it's just ...
it was missing something (or maybe a lot of somethings?)



there were some funny lines throughout the book (I love my romance novels with a healthy dose of funny)
I think I would've liked it a whole lot more if not for the seemingly missing bits - the questions about those pieces made me enjoy it less
Profile Image for Lydia's Bookshelf.
1,053 reviews189 followers
November 25, 2015
I am going to keep this review short and sweet because you NEED to read it for yourself. You WILL fall in love with these characters and their phenomenal story!

I just want to start off by saying that I absolutely LOVE this author’s writing style! Love it. It’s so easy to follow and connect with, and it most certainly made the story flow effortlessly. And a sports romance? YES, PLEASE. One of my favorite types of books to read, especially when it involves a hockey hunk!

Once I started reading Henrik and Leila’s story, I could not stop. I didn’t want to stop, either. I mean, characters that “hate” each other but in reality are madly in love? Uh, yes! Ten times YES! The angst that comes from that alone was amazing! Honestly, my heart ached for both Leila and Henrik, and their whole situation. Let’s just say, they did not have it easy, but it all made the book that much better! Really. The Girl With Hearts by Savannah Blevins is a MUST READ! 5 out of 5 stars!
Profile Image for Kathleen R..
1,407 reviews43 followers
November 24, 2015
Overall Stars: 4 STARS

Hockey
Alpha male

When you have been wronged by a man, the best dish served should always include vengeance with a side order of hockey player


Henrik Rylander doesn’t just participate in Manhattan’s dating scene—he owns the exclusive rights to it… As the newly-minted captain of the New York Rangers hockey team, Henrik’s coach wants him to clean up his reputation. But Henrik isn’t quite ready to give up charming panties off co-eds, so he decides to indulge in one last night of uninhibited freedom.
Leila Blakely has never been the “cry into your Baskin-Robbins” type…When she figures out her boyfriend has been cheating, she has only one objective—vengeance. Conveniently, the jerk’s arch-nemesis and her secret college crush, Henrik Rylander, is in town. She cleverly surprises Henrik in his hotel room and makes him an offer consisting of sex, lies, and the bathroom wall at the Regency. So what if she forgot to mention she was a virgin?
If their secret gets out, it will make headlines. Guaranteed…Deflowering the little sister of the most volatile enforcer in the NHL—who also happens to be his best friend—is a recipe for disaster. Henrik decides to ditch his horn-dog stigma to quell any suspicion and embarks on a mission to befriend Leila, only to be served a big slice of humble pie. Leila isn’t buying Henrik’s nice-guy act, though she can’t deny their attraction. But Henrik isn’t acting, and he’s ready to confront his feelings for the feisty girl with the heart tattoos. However, Henrik soon discovers there’s much more at stake than his reputation and the status of his bromance with Leila’s brother. Earning Leila’s trust might be the key to saving his career…and her life (Amazon Blurb)

Hockey men have always been a secret fantasy for so many: how can we deny it! They are quick on their feet, they have enough stamina to make even the fastest runner look like a turtle and the cut of their body can make any person appreciate the human body in an entire new way. Leila is the woman we see in a coffee shop, our friend who cries on our shoulder, who leans on us when she needs our support and is there to make us laugh when things are difficult – essentially, she is the woman that we see ourselves, that we can relate to. Henrik, on the other hand, is the man that we see on the television scoring the winning goal and fantasize being on his arm instead of women like ‘Carrie Underwood’ or one of the many ‘Hockey Wives’. I loved this story and the characters, the chemistry between Leila and Henrik, the connection between the members of the family and especially the flow of the storyline. It happens in many sports based novels that the base of the book, that of the sport and background of the characters, gets lost in the chaos of their present problems and I tend to find it frustrating, but Savannah Blevins has taken extra care to make sure that the characters aren’t lost in the chaos and that readers still find out how things and events finish. It is, quite frankly, a sports/romance genre that I would recommend to readers.

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,290 reviews53 followers
November 23, 2015
I really enjoyed this one. It's a sports romance involving hockey. I really enjoy when the characters have a history because more tight knit group they are. A little more tighter because it's comes a full circle for this group. This is also one of my favorite troupes best friend's sister/brother's best friend. Sometimes the right woman comes along and makes you want to be a better person and that's exactly what happens for Henrik. He has a reputation for his cocky attitude and nightly activities, but it's starting to wear thin. I loved the close relationships in this one because they can rag on one another. I was surprised by the little plot twist at the end because I didn't see it coming. It was such as sweet moment after the little scare. There was another revaluation, but I did see that one coming. Henrik does come off very cocky with almost to the jerk side of it in the beginning, but he wins you over very fast in this one. The way he puts the effort in to become the person he can be because of Leila shows you the potential of a great hero material. Definitely give this book a read you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Amy.
192 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2016
4.5ish. I was actually surprised by how much I liked this book. I was really afraid it was going to be an insta love mess with a bad boy who's too stupid to figure out what he wants. You do NOT have to be a hockey fan or have hockey knowledge to enjoy this book!! Bonus points for her not only being a strong female but, for being a ginger ;)
Profile Image for Angie.
479 reviews4 followers
January 15, 2016
Great start to a series!

I loved this book in so many ways! The characters brought life to the gorgeous settings Savannah wrote. I look forward to continuing with this series as it is published.
Profile Image for Cait M.
1,409 reviews12 followers
June 11, 2022
Hockey star captain Henrik has had an unacknowledged crush on his best friend's little sister Leila for 4 years.

Afraid of breaking bro-code he has never allowed himself to be friendly with her. Instead, he has avoided all romantic relationships, having strings of meaningless flings and one night stands.

Leila hates Henrik, even though she is best friends with his younger brother Drew. Leila thought that when they first met, Henrik was cute and charming, but the very next time they met he ignored her completely (after being secretly warned off by her brother).

The two of them have been antagonising each other for years, so when Leila arrives unannounced at Henrik's hotel room, telling him she's broken up with her boyfriend and asking for some no strings attached sex, Henrik's mind basically short circuits.

A few weeks later, she arrives at Drew's apartment, where he lives next door to Henrik, asking if she can stay while she gets her life sorted. Henrik can't stop thinking about Leila since their encounter, and he decides to turn over a new leaf and try to be at least friends with her.

This is a second chance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers romance. I enjoyed all the characters and the building of the relationships between all the main characters. Leila and Henrik, Henrik and his brother Drew, Henrik and Leila's brother Austin.

This book contains a descriptive love scene.
Profile Image for Sandie.
683 reviews6 followers
January 22, 2017
I loved it

Hockey romance books a my very favorite and this one didn't disappoint. I love it. Can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Sandra.
3,355 reviews12 followers
March 18, 2019
Enjoyable NA sports star romance that mixes a bunch of tropes including brother best friend, enemies to lovers, manwhore & virgin and
515 reviews
May 30, 2024
Just.a sweet story. Very enjoyable read. Can’t wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Amanda Gill.
442 reviews
March 1, 2017
Henrik is a professional hockey player who finds himself breaking the "bro code" when he develops feelings for his best friend/teammates younger sister. Leila is strictly off limits to his man whore ways, but when she unexpectedly shows up at his door begging him to give in, what red blooded man would say no? The story takes an unexpected twist when Leila shows up a week later and moves in across the hall with his brother. A few plot holes and timeline conflicts left me giving this story a solid 4 stars instead of 5. I really hate when a timeline doesn't add up with the events of a book. Can't say much more without giving a major spoiler. Pretty sure I picked this one up for free or $.99 so it was definitely worth my time and still enjoyable.
Profile Image for Rebecca Barber.
Author 17 books311 followers
January 30, 2016
THE GIRL WITH HEARTS

This story broke my heart!

Henrik is the ultimate player and not just on the ice! Tryign to balance the image that the team want and the bevvy of puck bunnies lining up at his door, Henrik is stressed. It doesn’t help when the one girl he wanted more with shows up on his doorstep with her heart set on revenge against her ex.

Lelia thought she just wanted one night. One night would make it all go away – the years of wishing and wanting and dreaming. But one night would never be enough. After showing up on Henrik’s doorstep and convincing him it’s a good idea, she cashes in her V card.

But life can never be simple. Lelia’s best friend is Drew, Henrik’s brother. Henrik’s best friend and roommate on the road is Austin, Lelia’s overprotective big brother. Hiding their growing attraction and emotions is going to be a challenge that neither saw coming.

Savannah has done a brilliant job dragging you into Henrik’s and Lelia’s world making their problems your problems. With an ending you didn’t see coming, this book reminds us what is really important in life.

I hope there is book 2 coming soon, because I ‘d love to see what Savannah does with Drew!
Profile Image for Samatha Harris.
Author 21 books184 followers
April 20, 2016
I'm a sucker for a cocky jackass

Oh Henrik you devil you. I loved the characters and their relationship to each other. Leila was feisty and gave all the boys in her life a run for their money. This was a fun sports romance that kept me guessing the whole way through. Can't wait to see what happens next
Profile Image for Carrie Stadtler.
253 reviews53 followers
December 2, 2015
This was a cute, quick read. However, the cover doesn't fit the story- just an FYI- This was quick and easy- sorta an isnta love but however it was really cute. Sister to his bestfriend was off limits. Even 4 years ago, and when Leila came back into his life and rocked his world- made the playboy Henrik change his ways.

Profile Image for Elsie.
574 reviews
January 24, 2017
I loved this book, it's a simple, funny and pretty story. Henrik is your typical sports hot guy who falls in love without him noticing.

I had a lot of fun with this characters they're a very funny and close family. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
24 reviews
November 6, 2015
My favorite Quote: "My love is not fleeting, not a simple stirring in the soul, but rather a tidal wave, consumng only those who dare step in my path."
Profile Image for Becka.
411 reviews5 followers
December 7, 2016
I couldn't put this book down. I got so much more than I expected from this and I absolutely loved every word. Can't wait to read the next one!
2,616 reviews
freebies
April 18, 2021
In boxed set - "Pink Hearts: A Romance Collection"
1,078 reviews8 followers
August 8, 2016
Older brother's best friend and a hockey story is a good combo for me.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews135 followers
Want to read
March 13, 2019
🎁Midtown Brotherhood Trilogy: Books 1-3 is FREE on Amazon today (3/13/2019)! 🎁
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