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All In #4
A Kiss for a Kiss
I’m Jake Masterson, single dad, and the General Manager of Seattle’s NHL team. I walked away from a career as a player so I could raise my daughter. For the last twenty-plus years, Queenie has been my main priority, but now she’s getting married.
And there’s a small complication.
A beautiful, sexy complication named Hanna.
She’s my son-in-law’s older sister. Or at least that’s how they were raised. The truth is a little more scandalous than that.
I’ve been drawn to her from the moment I laid eyes on her. And I spent months trying to keep a lid on that attraction.
Until we finally give in.
It starts with one searing kiss, but quickly ends with us between the sheets—and in the shower, and the hot tub, you get the picture—and turns into months of sneaking around.
Here’s the problem: we live on opposite ends of the country. It can’t be anything but casual. And as I’ve already said…it’s complicated.
But when Hanna finds out she’s pregnant…suddenly things get real serious.
And there’s a small complication.
A beautiful, sexy complication named Hanna.
She’s my son-in-law’s older sister. Or at least that’s how they were raised. The truth is a little more scandalous than that.
I’ve been drawn to her from the moment I laid eyes on her. And I spent months trying to keep a lid on that attraction.
Until we finally give in.
It starts with one searing kiss, but quickly ends with us between the sheets—and in the shower, and the hot tub, you get the picture—and turns into months of sneaking around.
Here’s the problem: we live on opposite ends of the country. It can’t be anything but casual. And as I’ve already said…it’s complicated.
But when Hanna finds out she’s pregnant…suddenly things get real serious.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2021
1955 people are currently reading
10783 people want to read
About the author
Helena Hunting
96 books26.7k followersHelena Hunting is a USA Today and NYT bestselling author. She lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and angsty emo cat who can never get enough pets. She writes everything from romantic sports to new adult angst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,332 reviews
May 24, 2021
A second chance at living a life filled with passion and love, Hanna and Jake learn that protecting and depending on each other is the way for a true fulfillment...
Jake and Hanna have been mentioned in the past with the previous characters in this series. Two characters in which were considered as side characters in which no one ever thought we would get a story for. And I am so glad that Helena did write this novel, especially getting a new perspective from an older generation where the unexpected becomes expected. The chemistry and passion between these two is one to thoroughly enjoy and its a breath of fresh air. Their ups and downs are what make the story so real and compassionate about their lives, whether it's apart of together. And to say the least, Jake is one hell of a father figure that I fell in love with more and more through every page I turned. I am so excited for everyone to love this story, because calling it unique and romantic is too short of a description when in reality it is truly a masterpiece.
ARC kindly provided by Social Butterfly PR, in exchange for an honest review...
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Jake and Hanna have been mentioned in the past with the previous characters in this series. Two characters in which were considered as side characters in which no one ever thought we would get a story for. And I am so glad that Helena did write this novel, especially getting a new perspective from an older generation where the unexpected becomes expected. The chemistry and passion between these two is one to thoroughly enjoy and its a breath of fresh air. Their ups and downs are what make the story so real and compassionate about their lives, whether it's apart of together. And to say the least, Jake is one hell of a father figure that I fell in love with more and more through every page I turned. I am so excited for everyone to love this story, because calling it unique and romantic is too short of a description when in reality it is truly a masterpiece.
ARC kindly provided by Social Butterfly PR, in exchange for an honest review...
Follow Me On:
Instagram ♕ Twitter
August 2, 2022
3 stars
This was a good story.
Solid characters.
Very little romantic plot tho. Mostly family drama.
The thing with this book is that it was just ok. And I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I feel like in an effort to show a mature and well developed relationship with characters who are around 45 years old, this story was almost too aware of the age aspect.
I don’t wanna be one of those people who say that age is just a number because it most definitely is not, especially when reading romance books but in this case I wish I was less aware of their age. Not because it bothered me but because they were constantly thinking it. I get that age would be talked about considering there is a high risk pregnancy depicted in the book but I think this very mature approach kinda took the fun out of it.
That being said, I like both Hanna and the hero (as I’m writing this review, I forgot his name and I’m not checking) I wanna say Jack!? I had a hard time reading about Hanna’s relationship with King (her son/brother) because I could tell how much she was hurting. He was the son she wasn’t allowed to raise and I don’t fault her at all for her decisions but I do fault her parents. As a 16 year old she leaned on them to guide her but they took the credit for parenthood and his achievements while letting Hanna care for him and do things for him beyond the duties of a sister. It was selfish. In the epilogue I wanted to cry when I read about her getting to finally raise her baby as her own the way she wanted to do the first time. I think that kind of trauma really stays with a person forever and I was glad to see her heal a small part of it at least.
So, all in all I genuinely liked this. I only gave it this rating because I don’t think that the plot was particularly interesting.
This was a good story.
Solid characters.
Very little romantic plot tho. Mostly family drama.
The thing with this book is that it was just ok. And I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I feel like in an effort to show a mature and well developed relationship with characters who are around 45 years old, this story was almost too aware of the age aspect.
I don’t wanna be one of those people who say that age is just a number because it most definitely is not, especially when reading romance books but in this case I wish I was less aware of their age. Not because it bothered me but because they were constantly thinking it. I get that age would be talked about considering there is a high risk pregnancy depicted in the book but I think this very mature approach kinda took the fun out of it.
That being said, I like both Hanna and the hero (as I’m writing this review, I forgot his name and I’m not checking) I wanna say Jack!? I had a hard time reading about Hanna’s relationship with King (her son/brother) because I could tell how much she was hurting. He was the son she wasn’t allowed to raise and I don’t fault her at all for her decisions but I do fault her parents. As a 16 year old she leaned on them to guide her but they took the credit for parenthood and his achievements while letting Hanna care for him and do things for him beyond the duties of a sister. It was selfish. In the epilogue I wanted to cry when I read about her getting to finally raise her baby as her own the way she wanted to do the first time. I think that kind of trauma really stays with a person forever and I was glad to see her heal a small part of it at least.
So, all in all I genuinely liked this. I only gave it this rating because I don’t think that the plot was particularly interesting.
December 12, 2021
3 stars
I was so excited to read A Kiss for a Kiss because A Secret for a Secret is my all time favorite Helena Hunting book and I wanted more King and Queenie. I'm glad I read this and I enjoyed parts about it, but there were other things that just didn't work for me.
First off, I loved that both of these characters were older and getting a second chance at love. I adored Jake and I liked Hanna just fine, but their romance was so lackluster until towards the end. I felt that the book was much too short. I think if it was longer/more developed it would have been better.
I was so excited to read A Kiss for a Kiss because A Secret for a Secret is my all time favorite Helena Hunting book and I wanted more King and Queenie. I'm glad I read this and I enjoyed parts about it, but there were other things that just didn't work for me.
First off, I loved that both of these characters were older and getting a second chance at love. I adored Jake and I liked Hanna just fine, but their romance was so lackluster until towards the end. I felt that the book was much too short. I think if it was longer/more developed it would have been better.
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 3 stars
Narrators: Stella Bloom & Jacob Morgan
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 7h 26m
Want to read
March 20, 2021omg yess, i'm so excited for jake and hanna's story!!
if you don't know Jake is Queenie's dad and Hanna is Kingston's mom (they are the MCs from A Secret for a Secret)
if you don't know Jake is Queenie's dad and Hanna is Kingston's mom (they are the MCs from A Secret for a Secret)
May 29, 2021
The blurb gives everything away. Sigh.
May 27, 2021
Hanna's family dynamic is already strained since her brother discovered that she's not her sister but in fact her biological mom, so she doesn't need to make family gatherings even more awkard by falling for her son's father-in-law... but the chemistry that they had since the first moment. Jake is close to being free again after the baby he raised alone is ready to take the next step and get married, ready to take his life back and even start dating again, but what he wasn't ready for was to fall for the momster of his future son-in-law, and all the complications that this secret affair would bring for all of them.
This is a classic Helena Hunting rom-com, meaning you're gonna laugh, get some second-hand embarrassment, and possibly even cry. The chemistry and tension between this couple was there since their kids started dating, and even Queenie -Jake's daughter-, called it. Now they're brought together by their kids's wedding and it's impossible not to indulge in those feelings, but with Hanna's complicated situation, they know that this forbidden romance between them cannot continue, besides living on opposite sides of the country so there's no future together... until Hanna discovers she's pregnant. In her forties.
This book not only navigates the complicated family relationships of these characters, but also how to get out again after failed relationships that may or may not have left you scarred, and also the complications of being pregnant at her age. They have some ups and downs, things that they can't agree on after living for themselves for so long, but the communication between Hanna and Jake was on point to solve all these problems. Overall, this was a sweet and unique relationship, with which I sometimes had a hard time connecting due to the age of the characters, making situations even weirder (for me), but it was a very entertaining read after all.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
-------------------------
Do I even remember who these characters are and if they were in the previous books? no, is that gonna stop me from wanting to read this book? ALSO NO
This is a classic Helena Hunting rom-com, meaning you're gonna laugh, get some second-hand embarrassment, and possibly even cry. The chemistry and tension between this couple was there since their kids started dating, and even Queenie -Jake's daughter-, called it. Now they're brought together by their kids's wedding and it's impossible not to indulge in those feelings, but with Hanna's complicated situation, they know that this forbidden romance between them cannot continue, besides living on opposite sides of the country so there's no future together... until Hanna discovers she's pregnant. In her forties.
This book not only navigates the complicated family relationships of these characters, but also how to get out again after failed relationships that may or may not have left you scarred, and also the complications of being pregnant at her age. They have some ups and downs, things that they can't agree on after living for themselves for so long, but the communication between Hanna and Jake was on point to solve all these problems. Overall, this was a sweet and unique relationship, with which I sometimes had a hard time connecting due to the age of the characters, making situations even weirder (for me), but it was a very entertaining read after all.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
-------------------------
Do I even remember who these characters are and if they were in the previous books? no, is that gonna stop me from wanting to read this book? ALSO NO
May 26, 2021
"It feels like a promise sealed. A kiss for a kiss."
5 -Hottie McDaddy & Momster- stars⭐
A Mature, light-hearted & sweetly emotional, Surprise-baby Hockey Romance with Complicated but amusing family, our beloved characters, Fling & Feels, Fun surprises, Low Drama, Baby planning, Love & HEA.
I've been anticipating Jake & Hanna's book since I read A Secret For a Secret & This was so worth the wait! I loved these two so much😍 & it was lovely to be in this world again! DEVOURED this in 6hrs.
This was just the light-hearted dose I needed! I smiled a lot & cried too. Seeing everyone again was heartwarming! I love'em all so much❤. Jake+Hanna's story was a mix of Laughs, sweetness & Emotions! While having low major drama, seeing as our MCs are mature (in their 40s), It has it's own set of complications, like Later life Pregnancy & Complicated Family dynamics, All so Gorgeously explored!
Jake; Caring, dependable, Athletic, Charming; is Queenie's Dad, General Manager of Seattle NHL team & Former Hockey player. Hanna; Responsible, Kind, Sassy, Strong-Willed; is King's "Momster", An accountant & Artist.
They met when their kids became a couple, had this spark together. But they resisted it, until they couldn't any longer. After K+Q's engagement party, they finally gave in, Fiery hot!
The Wedding preparations brought'em closer, despite her life being in Tennessee & his in Seattle. From Friends to Lovers, Months pass & feelings grew, But they kept this a secret as to not complicate anything further. Sadly their Secret relationship/fling ended with King+Queenie's wedding. Jake & Hanna handled it well, but Will they ever be more than friends again? Freely love?
~Engagement Party *Yay!*, No more resisting, Closer, The wedding day *Wow!*, Emotions & Fun, Weekend Sexathon🔥, Goodbye talks, Tiring, Texts & Chat...
Then the twist comes when Hanna came back to Seattle after 3 months, for Queenie's birthday! I LOVE how our girls' gang has accepted Hanna so fully, it was also due to them that she realised she's pregnant! This might be Hanna's last chance to be a mom so she wants this baby. And Jake? Omg, he was surprised. But once it wore off & he understood Hanna, he's so Caring *Swoon*. Everyone's reaction finding out is so fun & unexpected😉 (Especially Queenie & King!). Whatever came their way, they powered through. Jake & Hanna are finally able to date eachother freely *Yay!!*.
~Queenie's birthday, Girls time, Party & talks, Pregnant Feels, The Reactions *omg!*, Away yet Together, Ultrasound, Dating, Swoons & Talks, Planning, Mommy troubles, To Seattle, Realisations & Settling nicely, Poker night & Spa, Baby scare, Bed rest, Moving together, K&H Reconcile...
Hanna & Jake had been burned by love in past, so their trust building was slow but strong, their foundation steady. Months pass, falling in love, plan what's best for the baby, Excitement & Worries, made choices & Decisions. I'm happy Jake & Hanna have Awesome Friends & family with them! This baby gave us some scares (especially with Hanna's medical history) but it's handled Maturely. Cute JJ came into the world like a storm!
~Baby & Snowstorm, I love yous, JJ birth, Home, Care, Babysitting Fun & the sweet video, Being Family...
Even better is that the book doesn't end there. We get to see Jake & Hanna being parents to the newborn, soo adorable!! K+Q helping with their half-sibling is cute😘. Then months later all our gang seeing a Hockey match, sooo fun!!😍 The ending & epilogue are the best💘! (Aww, King & Queenie had a kid too!)
IF YOU LOVE THIS SERIES, YOU NEED THIS IN YOUR LIFE. #MustRead
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
5 -Hottie McDaddy & Momster- stars⭐
A Mature, light-hearted & sweetly emotional, Surprise-baby Hockey Romance with Complicated but amusing family, our beloved characters, Fling & Feels, Fun surprises, Low Drama, Baby planning, Love & HEA.
I've been anticipating Jake & Hanna's book since I read A Secret For a Secret & This was so worth the wait! I loved these two so much😍 & it was lovely to be in this world again! DEVOURED this in 6hrs.
This was just the light-hearted dose I needed! I smiled a lot & cried too. Seeing everyone again was heartwarming! I love'em all so much❤. Jake+Hanna's story was a mix of Laughs, sweetness & Emotions! While having low major drama, seeing as our MCs are mature (in their 40s), It has it's own set of complications, like Later life Pregnancy & Complicated Family dynamics, All so Gorgeously explored!
Jake; Caring, dependable, Athletic, Charming; is Queenie's Dad, General Manager of Seattle NHL team & Former Hockey player. Hanna; Responsible, Kind, Sassy, Strong-Willed; is King's "Momster", An accountant & Artist.
They met when their kids became a couple, had this spark together. But they resisted it, until they couldn't any longer. After K+Q's engagement party, they finally gave in, Fiery hot!
The Wedding preparations brought'em closer, despite her life being in Tennessee & his in Seattle. From Friends to Lovers, Months pass & feelings grew, But they kept this a secret as to not complicate anything further. Sadly their Secret relationship/fling ended with King+Queenie's wedding. Jake & Hanna handled it well, but Will they ever be more than friends again? Freely love?
~Engagement Party *Yay!*, No more resisting, Closer, The wedding day *Wow!*, Emotions & Fun, Weekend Sexathon🔥, Goodbye talks, Tiring, Texts & Chat...
Then the twist comes when Hanna came back to Seattle after 3 months, for Queenie's birthday! I LOVE how our girls' gang has accepted Hanna so fully, it was also due to them that she realised she's pregnant! This might be Hanna's last chance to be a mom so she wants this baby. And Jake? Omg, he was surprised. But once it wore off & he understood Hanna, he's so Caring *Swoon*. Everyone's reaction finding out is so fun & unexpected😉 (Especially Queenie & King!). Whatever came their way, they powered through. Jake & Hanna are finally able to date eachother freely *Yay!!*.
~Queenie's birthday, Girls time, Party & talks, Pregnant Feels, The Reactions *omg!*, Away yet Together, Ultrasound, Dating, Swoons & Talks, Planning, Mommy troubles, To Seattle, Realisations & Settling nicely, Poker night & Spa, Baby scare, Bed rest, Moving together, K&H Reconcile...
Hanna & Jake had been burned by love in past, so their trust building was slow but strong, their foundation steady. Months pass, falling in love, plan what's best for the baby, Excitement & Worries, made choices & Decisions. I'm happy Jake & Hanna have Awesome Friends & family with them! This baby gave us some scares (especially with Hanna's medical history) but it's handled Maturely. Cute JJ came into the world like a storm!
~Baby & Snowstorm, I love yous, JJ birth, Home, Care, Babysitting Fun & the sweet video, Being Family...
Even better is that the book doesn't end there. We get to see Jake & Hanna being parents to the newborn, soo adorable!! K+Q helping with their half-sibling is cute😘. Then months later all our gang seeing a Hockey match, sooo fun!!😍 The ending & epilogue are the best💘! (Aww, King & Queenie had a kid too!)
IF YOU LOVE THIS SERIES, YOU NEED THIS IN YOUR LIFE. #MustRead
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
May 27, 2021
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Jake Masterson is a single dad who devoted himself to raising his little girl. Years ago he gave up a career as a hockey player, and now works as the General Manager of Seattle's NHL team. Now he's preparing to walk his only daughter Queenie down the aisle to marry his teams goalie Ryan Kingston "King." As the two families come together he spends a lot of time with his son-in-laws older "sister" Hanna. Their both in their forties and have a lot in common. As they help with the wedding festivities a connection grows. She travels back and forth from her home in Tennessee and they dance around each other for months trying to resist their attraction. When they finally act on it they enjoy hot secret hookups and agree to keep it casual. Explore their chemistry, and don't get attached. They live on opposite sides of the country so their fun will soon come to an end. Then an unexpected pregnancy suddenly changes and complicates everything. Will they be able to avoid heartbreak, and try for something more?
-Every time I kiss her it's the same. It's like the first bite of a piece of cake snuck from the pantry when no one is looking. The delicious anticipation of having something you've waited for, only to discover it's infinitely more decadent than you expected.
A Kiss For A Kiss (All In, #4) by Helena Hunting is a heartwarming, friends to lovers romance about family and second chances at happiness. I have been dying for more of Queenie's sexy, sweet dad since we met him, and loved this fun, flirty story full of humor, emotion, love and surprises. Get ready to fall hard for this swoony, delicious, devoted dad! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3fNMFYt
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Jake Masterson is a single dad who devoted himself to raising his little girl. Years ago he gave up a career as a hockey player, and now works as the General Manager of Seattle's NHL team. Now he's preparing to walk his only daughter Queenie down the aisle to marry his teams goalie Ryan Kingston "King." As the two families come together he spends a lot of time with his son-in-laws older "sister" Hanna. Their both in their forties and have a lot in common. As they help with the wedding festivities a connection grows. She travels back and forth from her home in Tennessee and they dance around each other for months trying to resist their attraction. When they finally act on it they enjoy hot secret hookups and agree to keep it casual. Explore their chemistry, and don't get attached. They live on opposite sides of the country so their fun will soon come to an end. Then an unexpected pregnancy suddenly changes and complicates everything. Will they be able to avoid heartbreak, and try for something more?
-Every time I kiss her it's the same. It's like the first bite of a piece of cake snuck from the pantry when no one is looking. The delicious anticipation of having something you've waited for, only to discover it's infinitely more decadent than you expected.
A Kiss For A Kiss (All In, #4) by Helena Hunting is a heartwarming, friends to lovers romance about family and second chances at happiness. I have been dying for more of Queenie's sexy, sweet dad since we met him, and loved this fun, flirty story full of humor, emotion, love and surprises. Get ready to fall hard for this swoony, delicious, devoted dad! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3fNMFYt
May 26, 2021
This almost felt more like tragedy than romance, honestly. Love is an afterthought here - it's ALL about the baby and the family dynamics. While I have loved the rest of the series, this has a significant tonal shift that's jarring. There's ZERO relationship development before these two start banging, and I was still getting used to all of the references to menopause and aging when the pregnancy storyline came into play. My heart hurt for Jake and Hanna as they realized that they'd be dealing with a high risk pregnancy JUST when their grown children finally found happiness (lots of triggers in this). But I didn't particularly like either of them, and I kinda hate what they did to King's HEA. This is angsty and heartbreaking, but without the relationship development pre-baby, I really struggled to connect to the (lackluster) romance.
While I suppose this would technically read as a standalone, those who have read the series will get more out of it. We were introduced to Jake and Hanna in A Secret for a Secret, as they are the parents of that couple. Well... Jake is Queenie's dad and Hanna is King's "Momster." As Jake and Hanna bond over all of the activities surrounding their kids' wedding, these forty-somethings give in to their attraction and begin to casually hook up. They both know that the family dynamics make it impossible to be together in the long run, and they live on opposite sides of the country. But when Hanna realizes that she's pregnant, it's a blast from both of their pasts. Suddenly, this non-couple is dealing with a surprise pregnancy that stirs up all kinds of complicated feelings about the past - and they're a lot older this time around.
I remember really liking Jake in A Secret for a Secret, so I was looking forward to his book. Unfortunately, this just took a very different path than I would've liked. The baby is a HUGE part of the story, and it almost felt like the romance came in third - baby, family issues, THEN the relationship. I don't even think they exchanged "I love you's." The distinct lack of romance makes the level of angst difficult to handle, and it was missing the lightness that I love about HH's work. It even tarnished King's HEA, and the poor guy has already dealt with life-changing secrets from Hanna. Without the swoony moments or the comedy, this just felt endlessly heavy to me. It's technically well executed in a lot of ways, and I can almost envision the novella that this started out as. I kinda wish it had stayed that way. Regardless, this one's probably going to be for diehard fans of HH who don't mind a lot of heartache. For me, it was missing the charm that I love about her work. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this surprise pregnancy story.
While I suppose this would technically read as a standalone, those who have read the series will get more out of it. We were introduced to Jake and Hanna in A Secret for a Secret, as they are the parents of that couple. Well... Jake is Queenie's dad and Hanna is King's "Momster." As Jake and Hanna bond over all of the activities surrounding their kids' wedding, these forty-somethings give in to their attraction and begin to casually hook up. They both know that the family dynamics make it impossible to be together in the long run, and they live on opposite sides of the country. But when Hanna realizes that she's pregnant, it's a blast from both of their pasts. Suddenly, this non-couple is dealing with a surprise pregnancy that stirs up all kinds of complicated feelings about the past - and they're a lot older this time around.
I remember really liking Jake in A Secret for a Secret, so I was looking forward to his book. Unfortunately, this just took a very different path than I would've liked. The baby is a HUGE part of the story, and it almost felt like the romance came in third - baby, family issues, THEN the relationship. I don't even think they exchanged "I love you's." The distinct lack of romance makes the level of angst difficult to handle, and it was missing the lightness that I love about HH's work. It even tarnished King's HEA, and the poor guy has already dealt with life-changing secrets from Hanna. Without the swoony moments or the comedy, this just felt endlessly heavy to me. It's technically well executed in a lot of ways, and I can almost envision the novella that this started out as. I kinda wish it had stayed that way. Regardless, this one's probably going to be for diehard fans of HH who don't mind a lot of heartache. For me, it was missing the charm that I love about her work. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this surprise pregnancy story.
June 25, 2021
Hannah and jake
Wow this book was so amazing. I loved reading more about Jake and Hanna and there connection. We got to hear more about king and Queenie and the gang. Jake and Hanna wanted to keep there relationship a secret but when the news came they had to come clean.
Wow this book was so amazing. I loved reading more about Jake and Hanna and there connection. We got to hear more about king and Queenie and the gang. Jake and Hanna wanted to keep there relationship a secret but when the news came they had to come clean.
May 27, 2021
4 'Forever unfolding' Stars!
ARC provided via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review.
I love when an author surprises her readers with a story they are excited about but weren’t expecting to receive. This is exactly what Helena Hunting has done with Jake and Hanna’s novel, two characters we met in her All In series who clearly had chemistry from the get go. I have to say Helena definitely surprised us giving us A Kiss for A Kiss, a surprise pregnancy romance between two people in their forties and who also are involved in a casual and kind of “taboo” relationship. I was so excited about it and Hunting did not disappoint!
A Kiss for A Kiss is the fourth installment in Helena’s All In series and, as I said, it’s focused on the love story between Jake Masterson and Hanna Kingston. Jake is a single dad and the General Manager of Seattle’s NHL team, he has always taken care of his daughter Queenie and now it’s time to let her have her life with King, Hanna’s brother / son. These two have a peculiar friendship, they are arranging everything for their kids’ wedding and their forbidden chemistry comes to a point that is impossible to miss. They are scared to act on it, but they finally do. And everything is about to get more complicated because Hanna realizes she is pregnant, and both will have to re-arrange their lives to take care of their baby.
I feel a heightened level of desperation for him, knowing we can’t keep sleeping together indefinitely, that it’s going to end. And I feel a lot like I’m losing something else. Something bigger than I want to admit.
This was seriously ADORABLE. My poor heart, I adored Jake and Hanna so much! I was so freaking excited when Helena announced this story because it was clear as day these two deserved to have their own happy ending too. A Kiss for A Kiss is also very much different from the other three stories in the series, which I appreciated. It’s all about a mature couple, dealing with kids, their reactions to their relationship and pregnancy. It’s not easy, especially for Hanna and Kingston to solve their issues. But they love each other, and everything goes back in place after a while. Also, Hanna and Jake have this wonderful connection. It’s so sweet and sexy and I loved it! Their consequent pregnancy is not easy. Helena dealt so well with it, giving it a highly emotional part in the story. I loved this novel from start to finish and I hope all lovers of the series will do too!
“You were never just the ride, Jake. You should know that by now.”
“And you were never just a secret I was keeping.”
Therefore, I am rating A Kiss for A Kiss with 4 STARS because Helena treated us with an unexpected story in this amazing series with two characters we adored and who definitely deserved to find happiness after many ups and downs in their lives. I loved Jake and Hanna so much, I loved their relationship, I loved seeing them as parents and I loved catching up with the rest of these beloved characters. As I said, if you are a fan of Helena’s and her All In series, you don’t want to miss this one!
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ARC provided via Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review.
I love when an author surprises her readers with a story they are excited about but weren’t expecting to receive. This is exactly what Helena Hunting has done with Jake and Hanna’s novel, two characters we met in her All In series who clearly had chemistry from the get go. I have to say Helena definitely surprised us giving us A Kiss for A Kiss, a surprise pregnancy romance between two people in their forties and who also are involved in a casual and kind of “taboo” relationship. I was so excited about it and Hunting did not disappoint!
A Kiss for A Kiss is the fourth installment in Helena’s All In series and, as I said, it’s focused on the love story between Jake Masterson and Hanna Kingston. Jake is a single dad and the General Manager of Seattle’s NHL team, he has always taken care of his daughter Queenie and now it’s time to let her have her life with King, Hanna’s brother / son. These two have a peculiar friendship, they are arranging everything for their kids’ wedding and their forbidden chemistry comes to a point that is impossible to miss. They are scared to act on it, but they finally do. And everything is about to get more complicated because Hanna realizes she is pregnant, and both will have to re-arrange their lives to take care of their baby.
I feel a heightened level of desperation for him, knowing we can’t keep sleeping together indefinitely, that it’s going to end. And I feel a lot like I’m losing something else. Something bigger than I want to admit.
This was seriously ADORABLE. My poor heart, I adored Jake and Hanna so much! I was so freaking excited when Helena announced this story because it was clear as day these two deserved to have their own happy ending too. A Kiss for A Kiss is also very much different from the other three stories in the series, which I appreciated. It’s all about a mature couple, dealing with kids, their reactions to their relationship and pregnancy. It’s not easy, especially for Hanna and Kingston to solve their issues. But they love each other, and everything goes back in place after a while. Also, Hanna and Jake have this wonderful connection. It’s so sweet and sexy and I loved it! Their consequent pregnancy is not easy. Helena dealt so well with it, giving it a highly emotional part in the story. I loved this novel from start to finish and I hope all lovers of the series will do too!
“You were never just the ride, Jake. You should know that by now.”
“And you were never just a secret I was keeping.”
Therefore, I am rating A Kiss for A Kiss with 4 STARS because Helena treated us with an unexpected story in this amazing series with two characters we adored and who definitely deserved to find happiness after many ups and downs in their lives. I loved Jake and Hanna so much, I loved their relationship, I loved seeing them as parents and I loved catching up with the rest of these beloved characters. As I said, if you are a fan of Helena’s and her All In series, you don’t want to miss this one!
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May 27, 2021
Hanna + Jake
We already know them from Ryan + Queenie's book.
Hanna is Ryan's mother and Jake is the hockey team manager and Queenie's dad!
And during all the wedding preparation and planning these last few months they kinda fell for each other a tiny little bit. But of course they can never be together - it would be too weird with their kids being married and all the other previous problems in their families. Plus she lives in Tennessee and he's here in Seattle.
But then suddenly we're pregnant - in our mid-fourties!
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ... 😍
══════════════════
Adorable!
Finally a mature book for a change! I loved that.
I adored Hanna and Jake and their story!
They're so attracted to each other, but they don't want to hurt the kids.
And then with the pregnancy - which is of course very high risk - so we're very worried about that. Both have done this having a kid thing before - but in very different ways.
I just loved reading this!
Very sexy and sparky and adorable.
Great love story!
A KISS FOR A KISS was such an adorable + sexy + mature baby-having love story! I just loved it! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Jake - he'll be sold out in no time - and this one is MINE!
💜
💜
May 28, 2021
2.5 stars
I would say this is weakest book in series I just couldn't connect with characters but ok read.
I would say this is weakest book in series I just couldn't connect with characters but ok read.
May 27, 2021
**Available Now - Kindleunlimited**
5 Heart Warming Stars
This was such an amazing read. Sweet and sexy, Helena Hunting’s A Kiss for a Kiss really delivered a story that has my heart bursting at the seams.
Jake Masterson is beyond dreamy. Is it because I’m a mom and there really is something about a man caring for a baby? Maybe, but this man did something to me. He was practically perfect in every single way. He had his moments where I wanted to reach through the screen of my kindle but those were easily forgotten.
Hanna was such a relatable heroine and she made the story. Her history with Ryan and her hang ups make up the complexity of this book. Helena Hunting handled it in such a brilliant manner, showing the layers of the fall out from previous choices and their new realities. How they were woven into the current plot line of A Kiss for a Kiss was perfect. It allowed for those final pieces of Hanna’s character development to fall into place.
Helena Hunting has this uncanny ability to create a family with her series. Even though they are all standalones, she integrates them all in a way that they feel like real people with real lives. The support they give each other, the friendly jeering of one another and they love they freely give to their chosen families just adds another layer of feel goodness of her stories. I smile from ear to ear whenever one of them steps on the scene.
This plot does have minimal conflict, and that would normally lower my rating of a book, this one didn’t need that overly angsty conflict. Having a pregnancy late in life, a surprise pregnancy that comes with multiple levels of hurdles is more than enough “conflict”. I sped through the pages loving seeing these two come together and navigate their way through not only a baby but sorting out their relationship two. The age of these characters also led to the calm nature of this book, and I was here for it in every single way. This story fits Jake and Hanna to a T. It’s filled with love and worry and family, it shows that happiness is just around the corner when you least expect it.
A Kiss for a Kiss is another must read from Helena Hunting. Light-hearted and fun while also tackling complex familial issues, she delivers a story that will hit you right in the heart.
ARC review
5 Heart Warming Stars
This was such an amazing read. Sweet and sexy, Helena Hunting’s A Kiss for a Kiss really delivered a story that has my heart bursting at the seams.
Jake Masterson is beyond dreamy. Is it because I’m a mom and there really is something about a man caring for a baby? Maybe, but this man did something to me. He was practically perfect in every single way. He had his moments where I wanted to reach through the screen of my kindle but those were easily forgotten.
Hanna was such a relatable heroine and she made the story. Her history with Ryan and her hang ups make up the complexity of this book. Helena Hunting handled it in such a brilliant manner, showing the layers of the fall out from previous choices and their new realities. How they were woven into the current plot line of A Kiss for a Kiss was perfect. It allowed for those final pieces of Hanna’s character development to fall into place.
Helena Hunting has this uncanny ability to create a family with her series. Even though they are all standalones, she integrates them all in a way that they feel like real people with real lives. The support they give each other, the friendly jeering of one another and they love they freely give to their chosen families just adds another layer of feel goodness of her stories. I smile from ear to ear whenever one of them steps on the scene.
This plot does have minimal conflict, and that would normally lower my rating of a book, this one didn’t need that overly angsty conflict. Having a pregnancy late in life, a surprise pregnancy that comes with multiple levels of hurdles is more than enough “conflict”. I sped through the pages loving seeing these two come together and navigate their way through not only a baby but sorting out their relationship two. The age of these characters also led to the calm nature of this book, and I was here for it in every single way. This story fits Jake and Hanna to a T. It’s filled with love and worry and family, it shows that happiness is just around the corner when you least expect it.
A Kiss for a Kiss is another must read from Helena Hunting. Light-hearted and fun while also tackling complex familial issues, she delivers a story that will hit you right in the heart.
ARC review
May 27, 2023
#1 A Lie for a Lie — 3 stars
#2 A Favor for a Favor — 3.5 stars (up)
#3 A Secret for a Secret — 3.5 stars (down)
#4 A Kiss for a Kiss — 3.25 stars
this one was a different, more mature variation of the first book. in a sense that the MCs are older (in their 40s) & they mostly showed a healthy dynamic in their relationship that proved the “wisdom” of their age. that being said, i feel like there was no romance between the H & h. 🤧 they started as friends with benefits. then they found out the h was pregnant (not a spoiler, its on the blurb). then they decided to be together (because it made sense and they werent getting any younger), and everything was fine. the family drama also didnt help. this MCs got the weirdest family tree/relations lol. overall, this book was too plain i guess. the synopsis gave everything away, and in my opinion this book fits more as a womens fiction than a romance. 🤷♀️
(read as an audiobook)
#2 A Favor for a Favor — 3.5 stars (up)
#3 A Secret for a Secret — 3.5 stars (down)
#4 A Kiss for a Kiss — 3.25 stars
this one was a different, more mature variation of the first book. in a sense that the MCs are older (in their 40s) & they mostly showed a healthy dynamic in their relationship that proved the “wisdom” of their age. that being said, i feel like there was no romance between the H & h. 🤧 they started as friends with benefits. then they found out the h was pregnant (not a spoiler, its on the blurb). then they decided to be together (because it made sense and they werent getting any younger), and everything was fine. the family drama also didnt help. this MCs got the weirdest family tree/relations lol. overall, this book was too plain i guess. the synopsis gave everything away, and in my opinion this book fits more as a womens fiction than a romance. 🤷♀️
(read as an audiobook)
March 9, 2023
4 Doing Again Stars
PUCKER UP, Only 99 CENTS!!!!
* * * * Spoiler Free
So I know it is in very bad taste to do this, but I Told Helena Hunting To Do This...so it is sort of an I told you so review. As you can see below, after finishing one of the All In books where I met Jake Masterson, I asked very nicely for him to get his own book, and YAS, it happened. Thank You, Ms. Hunting.
What I didn't know was how deep Ms. Hunting would go for a storyline. She took something that happens often, parents who were young parents and they are looking toward the future now in their young forties trying to figure it all out. The dating scene is nothing like they may have been used to. They may have been totally devoted to their children and may feel lost when they are now on their way to their new lives without them having to be there for their long-time purpose, the kids.
There were also a few other real challenges addressed that can happen in life, some more common than we think, and the way they were handled was touching. Being a single parent is hard, being a young single parent is even more difficult because sometimes the decisions you make when young would not be what you would make a little older with more life experience.
And there are the feelings one has when you meet someone who just does it for you. Age has nothing to do with those feelings, they can happen at any time in your life, and this happens to both, Jake and Hanna. The hurdles are that when you are older, your life has been happening, careers, locations, habits, and other factors come into play and these things impact you more when older than younger. But when the heart wants something...there sometimes is no denying it.
This takes grown people who just really hit it off and have them deal with what life brings them, all the good feels, all of the complications of a tricky relationship with family members, and then the serious and life-changing event...having a surprise baby on the way.
This is a complicated, yet heartfelt story. It proves people can be like fine wine, the older, richer, and deeper flavors, only add to the pleasure.
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️
March 19, 2021
Oh, I know we all hate an I Told You So...But I asked for it and it is happening!!!!
"I do not know if this is it for this series. I think for sure a little novella may be coming for Queenie's dad...if not, Ms. Hunting...hint, hint...just sayin' there is something there..."
A Kiss For A Kiss is about Queenie's Dad and Kingston's Mom!!! PERFECTION, Tee Hee
May 28th, I Cannot Wait :DDD
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
PUCKER UP, Only 99 CENTS!!!!
* * * * Spoiler Free
So I know it is in very bad taste to do this, but I Told Helena Hunting To Do This...so it is sort of an I told you so review. As you can see below, after finishing one of the All In books where I met Jake Masterson, I asked very nicely for him to get his own book, and YAS, it happened. Thank You, Ms. Hunting.
What I didn't know was how deep Ms. Hunting would go for a storyline. She took something that happens often, parents who were young parents and they are looking toward the future now in their young forties trying to figure it all out. The dating scene is nothing like they may have been used to. They may have been totally devoted to their children and may feel lost when they are now on their way to their new lives without them having to be there for their long-time purpose, the kids.
There were also a few other real challenges addressed that can happen in life, some more common than we think, and the way they were handled was touching. Being a single parent is hard, being a young single parent is even more difficult because sometimes the decisions you make when young would not be what you would make a little older with more life experience.
And there are the feelings one has when you meet someone who just does it for you. Age has nothing to do with those feelings, they can happen at any time in your life, and this happens to both, Jake and Hanna. The hurdles are that when you are older, your life has been happening, careers, locations, habits, and other factors come into play and these things impact you more when older than younger. But when the heart wants something...there sometimes is no denying it.
This takes grown people who just really hit it off and have them deal with what life brings them, all the good feels, all of the complications of a tricky relationship with family members, and then the serious and life-changing event...having a surprise baby on the way.
This is a complicated, yet heartfelt story. It proves people can be like fine wine, the older, richer, and deeper flavors, only add to the pleasure.
A Lie for a Lie (All In, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Favor for a Favor (All In, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Secret for a Secret (All In, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Kiss for a Kiss https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️
March 19, 2021
Oh, I know we all hate an I Told You So...But I asked for it and it is happening!!!!
"I do not know if this is it for this series. I think for sure a little novella may be coming for Queenie's dad...if not, Ms. Hunting...hint, hint...just sayin' there is something there..."
A Kiss For A Kiss is about Queenie's Dad and Kingston's Mom!!! PERFECTION, Tee Hee
May 28th, I Cannot Wait :DDD
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 3, 2021
Helena Hunting has been the queen of quirky, hilarious heroines. And then I started this series and fell in love with her writing serious, deep characters. So now when I pick up her books I don't know if I'm getting a story that will have me laugh out loud or cry like a baby.
Every book in this series has been awesome and each one has had its own unique story. With each couple dealing with their own issues. And yet we still got the happy, feel good romance that Helena does so well. Plus, all of the characters we know and love from previous books and series are all there being their awesome selves.
When it was announced that this was Jake and Hanna's story, I was so excited. For so many reasons. And I initially was expecting it to be light and funny and the drama to be based around their extremely complicated family dynamics. But I read a warning about the serious twist this one took.
So, if you've read this series in order you became well acquainted with Jake and Hanna through Queenie and Ryan's story. And you felt the chemistry every time these two were in the same room. If you haven't then get to it, this series is must read.
Jake and Hanna were perfect together. They were mature and had both been through so much, yet they were both simply happy living their lives. Each of them was focused on their family and their own lives. But when they came together they didn't throw any unnecessary drama or obstacles in their way. They worked together and communicated and just made this a great book to read.
I'm so sad to see this series end but I can't wait to see what's next. And no doubt we will catch up with all of these guys sometime in the future.
Every book in this series has been awesome and each one has had its own unique story. With each couple dealing with their own issues. And yet we still got the happy, feel good romance that Helena does so well. Plus, all of the characters we know and love from previous books and series are all there being their awesome selves.
When it was announced that this was Jake and Hanna's story, I was so excited. For so many reasons. And I initially was expecting it to be light and funny and the drama to be based around their extremely complicated family dynamics. But I read a warning about the serious twist this one took.
So, if you've read this series in order you became well acquainted with Jake and Hanna through Queenie and Ryan's story. And you felt the chemistry every time these two were in the same room. If you haven't then get to it, this series is must read.
Jake and Hanna were perfect together. They were mature and had both been through so much, yet they were both simply happy living their lives. Each of them was focused on their family and their own lives. But when they came together they didn't throw any unnecessary drama or obstacles in their way. They worked together and communicated and just made this a great book to read.
I'm so sad to see this series end but I can't wait to see what's next. And no doubt we will catch up with all of these guys sometime in the future.
May 28, 2021
I wished hard for Jake’s book, and I can’t tell you how grateful I am to Hunting for granting it. This series is for me, All In! Her latest offering is the end of a new beginning and although the three previous books can be read as standalones, to enjoy
A Kiss for a Kiss
to the fullest, I highly recommend reading them first. So, I followed the guys and gals on their quest for happiness, shed tears, laughed-out-loud and more often than not, wanted to jump into their books and give them a good talking to!
Hunting creates an enormous amount of character, plot and narrative depth, this novel being no exception. But more importantly, she’s switched genre to explore some pretty serious stuff. Her trademark banter that I've come to love so much and emotionally charged dialogue not only drives the story forward but was a delight to read.
I’d already fallen for Jake, Queenie’s dad and manager of the Seattle NHL team in A Secret for a Secret and Hanna, a rock in Ryan’s life, left a huge impact on me. Their news is quite the shocker, but observing the Seattle girls’ enthusiasm and the way they took her under their wing warmed my heart. Save one whom I’d have gladly knocked some sense into, their spouses are All In. So, most of their thoughts regarding Jake and Hanna’s situation were in tune with mine, and I have to add that Bishop’s remarks were totally in keeping with his gorgeousness. Revisiting The Knight Cap in Kiss My Cupcake brought back happy reading memories, too.
Whoever thinks passion isn’t alive in our mid-forties is mistaken; Jake and Hanna’s scorching suggestiveness the perfect example. Brilliant if not moving conversation pulled out all the stops—how Hanna feels about her parent’s past support, how Jake coped as a single parent and what’s waiting on the horizon. Once more, decisions need to be made, logistics and work have to be taken into consideration and even though it’s complicated, I loved every heart-wrenching moment of it. I could go on and on, but seeing as this is such a special read and I don’t want to spoil it for you, I’m not even going to cite the quotes I’d highlighted.
Hunting’s driven home the importance of family values and friendship in the best possible light. Her handling of certain delicate issues was exceptionally well-done, and if you fancy a carefully nuanced tale of love that gives you all the feels and leaves a smile on your face, this one will be right up your alley! Bravo, Hunting!
Hunting creates an enormous amount of character, plot and narrative depth, this novel being no exception. But more importantly, she’s switched genre to explore some pretty serious stuff. Her trademark banter that I've come to love so much and emotionally charged dialogue not only drives the story forward but was a delight to read.
I’d already fallen for Jake, Queenie’s dad and manager of the Seattle NHL team in A Secret for a Secret and Hanna, a rock in Ryan’s life, left a huge impact on me. Their news is quite the shocker, but observing the Seattle girls’ enthusiasm and the way they took her under their wing warmed my heart. Save one whom I’d have gladly knocked some sense into, their spouses are All In. So, most of their thoughts regarding Jake and Hanna’s situation were in tune with mine, and I have to add that Bishop’s remarks were totally in keeping with his gorgeousness. Revisiting The Knight Cap in Kiss My Cupcake brought back happy reading memories, too.
Whoever thinks passion isn’t alive in our mid-forties is mistaken; Jake and Hanna’s scorching suggestiveness the perfect example. Brilliant if not moving conversation pulled out all the stops—how Hanna feels about her parent’s past support, how Jake coped as a single parent and what’s waiting on the horizon. Once more, decisions need to be made, logistics and work have to be taken into consideration and even though it’s complicated, I loved every heart-wrenching moment of it. I could go on and on, but seeing as this is such a special read and I don’t want to spoil it for you, I’m not even going to cite the quotes I’d highlighted.
Hunting’s driven home the importance of family values and friendship in the best possible light. Her handling of certain delicate issues was exceptionally well-done, and if you fancy a carefully nuanced tale of love that gives you all the feels and leaves a smile on your face, this one will be right up your alley! Bravo, Hunting!
May 27, 2021
A dash of bromance, a dollop of hilarity and a whole lot of sentimental stew is served to a full table of family and friends. You don't wanna miss this story, or this fabulous series because Helena has put a lot of heart in developing these beautiful complexed couples.
Mention Rip roaring romantic comedies set against the backdrop of Hockey, and the first name that pops up is of Helena Hunting. She's given us some ig the best books in the genre.
That's her Pucked series.
She has given us Unforgettable characters, that I claim as my own friends. Esp Violet. And now they all seem to have grown up, gotten married, have/having kids, and in the midst of it all is a mature love connection developing clandestinely, unlike any other I've ever read.
Hanna & Jake relationship status : It's Complicated . They CANNOT be together, that's a given. So their love story already has an expiration date set. But while they're at it, "Hottie McDaddy" & "Momster" leave no surface unpucked in their breath-panting, clothes-ripping, desperate passion-fest. In the spare bedroom, in his bed, in the shower, in the pool, the hot tub, the kitchen counter, the living room.
“Dammit. Oral skills, multiple Os, abs, and a boyfriend dick?.”
“I’m aware that the road ahead of us isn’t going to be an easy one, and that we are part of each other’s lives in an inextricable way. But I think we could be good together.”
It's the weirdest twist handled oh-so-affectionately by Helena. It touched my heart, and dragged me into their court.
Weirdest part is that their crossover relationship happens when their family is coming together through marriage!!!
Jake's daughter Queenie is marrying Hannah's brother Ryan Kingston, whom we met in A Secret for a Secret. And to add more knots to the already tangled mess is the fact that Hanna becomes pregnant.
Ohhhh Boy!!! They never stood a chance, did they
Mention Rip roaring romantic comedies set against the backdrop of Hockey, and the first name that pops up is of Helena Hunting. She's given us some ig the best books in the genre.
That's her Pucked series.
She has given us Unforgettable characters, that I claim as my own friends. Esp Violet. And now they all seem to have grown up, gotten married, have/having kids, and in the midst of it all is a mature love connection developing clandestinely, unlike any other I've ever read.
Hanna & Jake relationship status : It's Complicated . They CANNOT be together, that's a given. So their love story already has an expiration date set. But while they're at it, "Hottie McDaddy" & "Momster" leave no surface unpucked in their breath-panting, clothes-ripping, desperate passion-fest. In the spare bedroom, in his bed, in the shower, in the pool, the hot tub, the kitchen counter, the living room.
“Dammit. Oral skills, multiple Os, abs, and a boyfriend dick?.”
“I’m aware that the road ahead of us isn’t going to be an easy one, and that we are part of each other’s lives in an inextricable way. But I think we could be good together.”
It's the weirdest twist handled oh-so-affectionately by Helena. It touched my heart, and dragged me into their court.
Weirdest part is that their crossover relationship happens when their family is coming together through marriage!!!
Jake's daughter Queenie is marrying Hannah's brother Ryan Kingston, whom we met in A Secret for a Secret. And to add more knots to the already tangled mess is the fact that Hanna becomes pregnant.
Ohhhh Boy!!! They never stood a chance, did they
January 13, 2022
4 𝑯𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒆 𝑴𝒄𝒅𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑴𝒐𝒎𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 stars
I wasn't quite sure how this one was going to pan out. It's a trope that I'm not a huge fan of (maybe I haven't been reading the right books?), but I actually enjoyed this one.
What happens when attraction gets the better of you? When you can't say no anymore despite the potential fallout.. when things go too far and lives are forever altered.
Well, you get a sweet and light hearted read. A story where you'll witness two people who thought they had life figured out, fall and give into something good and pure.
Jake is the hockey manager and Queenie's dad, Hanna is Ryan's mom.
They are both excited to watch their children marry. They are excited for what life has in store for them now that they can live life to their wants and dreams. Helping make this wedding be the best ever, they start spending lots of time with one another. One things leads to the other, one hot encounter in a hot tub sends them into a secret romance that neither had in their cards, but was just the right thing.
Now they have to nagivate as in-laws and more... more what? Dating? Friendship? More surprises...
I'm glad I decide to give this one a go!
I wasn't quite sure how this one was going to pan out. It's a trope that I'm not a huge fan of (maybe I haven't been reading the right books?), but I actually enjoyed this one.
What happens when attraction gets the better of you? When you can't say no anymore despite the potential fallout.. when things go too far and lives are forever altered.
Well, you get a sweet and light hearted read. A story where you'll witness two people who thought they had life figured out, fall and give into something good and pure.
Jake is the hockey manager and Queenie's dad, Hanna is Ryan's mom.
They are both excited to watch their children marry. They are excited for what life has in store for them now that they can live life to their wants and dreams. Helping make this wedding be the best ever, they start spending lots of time with one another. One things leads to the other, one hot encounter in a hot tub sends them into a secret romance that neither had in their cards, but was just the right thing.
Now they have to nagivate as in-laws and more... more what? Dating? Friendship? More surprises...
I'm glad I decide to give this one a go!
June 4, 2021
This was absolutely PERFECT! So many sweet, tender and swoony moments.
Jake Masterson is the GM of Seattle’s NHL team. He’s also a single father whose daughter will soon be marrying one of his players.
While planning their wedding, he and Hanna –his future son-in-law’s… let’s call her a close family member– became good friends and eventually lovers. They kept their relationship casual and a secret because living on opposite sides of the country made matters problematic. But nothing would complicate their complex family dynamic more than Hanna is pregnant.
It’s been awhile since I was so absorbed in a book that I didn’t realize I had read through 75% in a single sitting and then just inhaled the rest. I smiled and swooned from start to finish.
Helena Hunting offers a beautiful story of a mature couple copping with dramatic changes in their lives reminding us that it takes communication, understanding and vulnerability to make a relationship work.
While steamy Jacuzzi sex is part of what we love about romance, it’s meaningless without the emotions below the surface that offer the truth about partnership and intimacy. Nothing was more swoon-worthy than Jake’s patience, care and respect for Hanna.
A Kiss for A Kiss is book #4 of the All In series by Helena Hunting. This is standalone hockey, told from both points of view, with a happy ending. Genre: contemporary romance | sports romance. Tropes: surprise baby | friends to lovers with a forbidden element.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2RFMVRd
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly PR. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
For more book edits stalk me on Instagram ★
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Jake Masterson is the GM of Seattle’s NHL team. He’s also a single father whose daughter will soon be marrying one of his players.
While planning their wedding, he and Hanna –his future son-in-law’s… let’s call her a close family member– became good friends and eventually lovers. They kept their relationship casual and a secret because living on opposite sides of the country made matters problematic. But nothing would complicate their complex family dynamic more than Hanna is pregnant.
It’s been awhile since I was so absorbed in a book that I didn’t realize I had read through 75% in a single sitting and then just inhaled the rest. I smiled and swooned from start to finish.
“I thought I had everything I needed, until she came along and turned my world upside down.”
Helena Hunting offers a beautiful story of a mature couple copping with dramatic changes in their lives reminding us that it takes communication, understanding and vulnerability to make a relationship work.
While steamy Jacuzzi sex is part of what we love about romance, it’s meaningless without the emotions below the surface that offer the truth about partnership and intimacy. Nothing was more swoon-worthy than Jake’s patience, care and respect for Hanna.
A Kiss for A Kiss is book #4 of the All In series by Helena Hunting. This is standalone hockey, told from both points of view, with a happy ending. Genre: contemporary romance | sports romance. Tropes: surprise baby | friends to lovers with a forbidden element.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2RFMVRd
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Social Butterfly PR. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
For more book edits stalk me on Instagram ★
June 3, 2021
Hanna has been busy helping plan her younger brother's engagement party, balancing her time between Tennessee and Seattle each weekend plus preparing for what could be a promotion at work. When she is in Seattle she is spending most of her time with Jake, her brother's father in law to be. This is no easy task, he is drop dead gorgeous and resisting him is getting harder each time she sees him.
Jake has raised his daughter Queenie on his own since she was born after her mother decided early on that motherhood was not for her. He has done an incredible job but the time has come to give her away to another man to entrust her happiness to. In the absence of a mother in her life it has been great having the help and guidance of Hanna. Their friendship has only grown and they get on so well together.
There is a ridiculous amount of attraction between Jake and Hanna, so much so that Hanna decides to up the flirtation hoping it leads to something physical between them. What she was hoping would happen turns out to be just what they both really needed. What they weren’t expecting was how intense and incredible they would be together.
They are both in their early 40’s but Jake seems to have the stamina and testosterone of a guy in his 20’s. Hanna can’t seem to get enough of Jake either. Whenever they are together it ends up in hot sexy times and they are both loving the thrill of sneaking around. They both live in different states and have busy careers and once the wedding is done with, there will be no reason to see each other.
This fun time has a time limit on it and to be fair, it wouldn’t be fair on Queenie and King if they decided to pursue something. Complicated family dynamics have already had their time in this family. However, everything changes when Hanna discovers she is pregnant. She never dreamed she would get the chance to be a mother, she always hoped she could but thought that phase of life had passed her by. It seems that fate has other ideas for her and Jake now...
This was one of those stories that ticks all the boxes for me and I completely inhaled it in one sitting. This is a beautiful second chance at love story.
Jake has raised his daughter Queenie on his own since she was born after her mother decided early on that motherhood was not for her. He has done an incredible job but the time has come to give her away to another man to entrust her happiness to. In the absence of a mother in her life it has been great having the help and guidance of Hanna. Their friendship has only grown and they get on so well together.
There is a ridiculous amount of attraction between Jake and Hanna, so much so that Hanna decides to up the flirtation hoping it leads to something physical between them. What she was hoping would happen turns out to be just what they both really needed. What they weren’t expecting was how intense and incredible they would be together.
They are both in their early 40’s but Jake seems to have the stamina and testosterone of a guy in his 20’s. Hanna can’t seem to get enough of Jake either. Whenever they are together it ends up in hot sexy times and they are both loving the thrill of sneaking around. They both live in different states and have busy careers and once the wedding is done with, there will be no reason to see each other.
This fun time has a time limit on it and to be fair, it wouldn’t be fair on Queenie and King if they decided to pursue something. Complicated family dynamics have already had their time in this family. However, everything changes when Hanna discovers she is pregnant. She never dreamed she would get the chance to be a mother, she always hoped she could but thought that phase of life had passed her by. It seems that fate has other ideas for her and Jake now...
This was one of those stories that ticks all the boxes for me and I completely inhaled it in one sitting. This is a beautiful second chance at love story.
March 16, 2022
“I still want to try to be an us.”
- Who is the Hero? Jake Masterson, Age: 44, Occupation: General Manager of Seattle NHL team
~ Jake was introduced in the previous book (his daughter was the heroine). He raised his daughter on his own and is a great dad.
~ “At twenty, I became a single father after Queenie’s mom decided she couldn’t deal with the demands of raising a child and bailed on us when Queenie was a few months old. With the support of my parents, I raised Queenie on my own. I walked away from a career as a professional hockey player so I could be a present parent. I adjusted my career path in order to be a father first. I think I did a pretty decent job, all things considered.” /i>
- Who is the Heroine? Hanna Kingston, Age: 46, Occupation: works at an accounting firm and teaches art classes
~ Hanna was introduced in the previous book (her son Ryan (aka King) was the hero). She gave birth to Ryan when she was fifteen, but the family pretended Ryan was her brother rather than her son. Ryan found out about this little revelation in the previous book. Hanna and Ryan (raised as siblings) are close.
~ “I’d been young and scared, and allowing my parents to adopt Ryan had seemed like the best choice.”
~ “When I was a teenager, I was inexperienced and scared. I wanted to keep Ryan in my life, so my parents made a sacrifice right along with me. They gave up their friends and their careers and moved us to a new state so we could have a fresh start. It wasn’t a perfect scenario, and I’ll never truly know my mother’s motivations, but they did what they believed was right. I don’t know that they truly thought through the ramifications, or considered the potential fallout, but we all made it out the other side in one piece. And Ryan was loved and cared for, which was what I’d wanted, most of all.”
Plot overview:
~ Hanna and Jake met in the previous book. Their children are getting married and there were some sparks when they were introduced. This book seems to start after they’ve gotten to know each other through various wedding planning meetings.
~ “We’ve been dancing around each other for months. Ever since the first time we met, actually. The attraction has been clear from day one, and the more time I spend with her, the harder it becomes to ignore. Planning the engagement party for Queenie and King means we’ve spent a lot of time trading text messages, emails, phone calls, and more recently, Zoom chats that often have little to do with tonight” (the engagement party)
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * seeing as Jake and Hanna have spent a little time together, I sort of feel like I missed the crucial buildup of their relationship.
* * Awww…Jake is such a softie of a dad.
~ “It’s different from when she went away to college, and even when she moved out of the pool house and in with King. There’s this hole I didn’t expect.”
~ “You know, when I named you Queenie, it was because the moment you arrived in the world, I knew that you would forever be the ruler of my heart.”
* * this book includes the wedding of the couple from book 3 (Ryan and Queenie). Of course the father of the bride (Jake) continues his awesome dad swoony-ness…..
~ “I give her a kiss and a hug, and she takes her place at the altar. I sniff once and clear my throat, trying to keep my emotions in check. I’m not much of a crier, and never have been. But she’s my baby girl, and it doesn’t matter that she’s an adult. I’ll always remember the first time I held her in my arms, so tiny and new, and how she seemed like an impossible miracle.”
* * Jake’s initial reaction to the baby was not very supportive. I was worried I wasn’t going to be able to forgive him. But, shortly after, he apologizes and explains the reason behind his behavior and it made sense. I’m glad he came around quickly.
* * I appreciated the way both Jake and Hanna were able to explain their reactions / opinions. They didn’t try to railroad each other, but instead gave each other the space needed to be honest and to help each other work through the baggage from their pasts. Their ability to communicate helped reduce drama between the couple, which was perfect because there was enough drama they had to deal with in other areas
* * my heart broke for Hanna and the way she had to step aside and pretend her son was her brother. Families deal with teen pregnancy differently and I actually know a family in real life that chose this same way of “covering” up the situation. I found Hanna’s perspective and thoughts very heart wrenching at times.
~ ”It wasn’t until Ryan was born that I was allowed to come back home. I had a week with him before that happened. And the moment I walked through the door to my parents’ house—the baby that had grown inside of me, that I had given birth to and fell in love with—stopped being my son to the rest of the world. But my heart knew he was mine, even if no one else was supposed to. And that was the hardest part. Grieving a loss that no one could ever know about.”
~ “I’ll always experience the landmarks in Ryan’s life from the vantage point of his sister, even though in my heart I’m more than that. I’ll forever be in this strange middle ground between sibling and parent. I thought I’d come to terms with that long ago, and for the most part I have, but today hasn’t been easy. When I was younger, I didn’t have the same perspective I do now. I couldn’t see, in the same way, all the things I would have to take a back seat on.”
* * I thought this covered quite a few different topics: pre-menopause, risks associated with late in life pregnancy, honest reactions when you think you have raised a family and are starting over due to the baby surprise, navigating long-distance with patience rather than pressure, complicated family dynamics, career choices. A lot was packed into this story and I thought it was dealt with maturely
* * I’m glad that Hanna and Jake were able to experience what it’s like to raise a baby with a loving partner by your side. I felt they both deserved this kind of baby “second chance”
* * I liked Queenie’s upbeat, positive attitude and her support for both Hanna and Jake. However, she didn’t seem like quite the same person she was in the previous book. Maybe getting married just made her happier??? Not sure, but she just seemed a lot more bubbly in this book than in her own book (book 3)
**Overview:**
- Content Warning: teen pregnancy (heroine, now 46, got pregnant when she was 15).
- Setting: mostly Seattle, WA
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: yes. A major aspect of this story (biological mom pretending to be sister) was revealed in previous book. Plus, you need all the background from the previous book to understand the various side characters (and their reactions) in this book
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: secret relationship, parents of married kids fall in love, baby surprise, “older” couple
- Hero likeable? yes. I really liked Jake
- heroine likeable? yes, I really liked Hanna
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 3%
- First time they sleep together: Apparently 3% but this is all I got 🙁
~ “What’s left of the weekend is spent trading orgasms all over my house. And in the months that follow, my appetite for Hanna never wanes.”
~ The bedroom scene in chapter 4 was a bit more descriptive.
- Safe sex? usually they used a condom, except for one time
- First time they say I Love You 87%
- steamy? not in the beginning, kind of in the middle. But, once they found out they were pregnant then it became all about the baby and the choices they needed to make as a couple rather than descriptive sexy times
- Chemistry? I thought they made a good couple, but I wasn’t overwhelmed with their bedroom scenes
- OW/OM drama? No.
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? they had a bit of a long-distance thing going on in the beginning. But they weren’t technically dating at the time. They had a few weeks apart when they first found out about the baby. But once they were together, no more time apart
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? not from each other. The baby secret is revealed to the family around 41%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Yes. Jake was a swoony dad to his 24 year old daughter. Plus he had lots of swoony moments as they prepared to welcome the new baby
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Four years later
- Recommend? Yes. This was my favorite of the whole series as I felt it had some depth and interesting subjects
Quotes:
“Take comfort in the fact you’re the eye candy for everyone over forty.”
“If you need to let it out, then let it out. I’m not afraid of tears, Hanna. I raised a teenage girl on my own. If I can handle irrational teenage girl tears, I can certainly handle reasonable, adult emotional tears.”
“Dammit. Oral skills, multiple Os, abs, and a boyfriend dick? You found a unicorn and you have to give him up. That’s just tragic.”
“How do you feel about seeing Hanna be a mom?” Queenie asks. “It makes me appreciate even more the relationship we had when I was growing up. She’s awesome. And now I get it. Why she needed this. Why she needed you.” He tickles JJ’s toes. “She deserves to be able to love in the way only moms do. In the way I couldn’t recognize she loved me my entire life, until now.”
“The thing about looking at your childhood through an adult lens is that you can see all the sides of the situations you were in, but they’re tainted by the emotions and perception of those events based on the age when they happened.”
- Who is the Hero? Jake Masterson, Age: 44, Occupation: General Manager of Seattle NHL team
~ Jake was introduced in the previous book (his daughter was the heroine). He raised his daughter on his own and is a great dad.
~ “At twenty, I became a single father after Queenie’s mom decided she couldn’t deal with the demands of raising a child and bailed on us when Queenie was a few months old. With the support of my parents, I raised Queenie on my own. I walked away from a career as a professional hockey player so I could be a present parent. I adjusted my career path in order to be a father first. I think I did a pretty decent job, all things considered.” /i>
- Who is the Heroine? Hanna Kingston, Age: 46, Occupation: works at an accounting firm and teaches art classes
~ Hanna was introduced in the previous book (her son Ryan (aka King) was the hero). She gave birth to Ryan when she was fifteen, but the family pretended Ryan was her brother rather than her son. Ryan found out about this little revelation in the previous book. Hanna and Ryan (raised as siblings) are close.
~ “I’d been young and scared, and allowing my parents to adopt Ryan had seemed like the best choice.”
~ “When I was a teenager, I was inexperienced and scared. I wanted to keep Ryan in my life, so my parents made a sacrifice right along with me. They gave up their friends and their careers and moved us to a new state so we could have a fresh start. It wasn’t a perfect scenario, and I’ll never truly know my mother’s motivations, but they did what they believed was right. I don’t know that they truly thought through the ramifications, or considered the potential fallout, but we all made it out the other side in one piece. And Ryan was loved and cared for, which was what I’d wanted, most of all.”
Plot overview:
~ Hanna and Jake met in the previous book. Their children are getting married and there were some sparks when they were introduced. This book seems to start after they’ve gotten to know each other through various wedding planning meetings.
~ “We’ve been dancing around each other for months. Ever since the first time we met, actually. The attraction has been clear from day one, and the more time I spend with her, the harder it becomes to ignore. Planning the engagement party for Queenie and King means we’ve spent a lot of time trading text messages, emails, phone calls, and more recently, Zoom chats that often have little to do with tonight” (the engagement party)
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * seeing as Jake and Hanna have spent a little time together, I sort of feel like I missed the crucial buildup of their relationship.
* * Awww…Jake is such a softie of a dad.
~ “It’s different from when she went away to college, and even when she moved out of the pool house and in with King. There’s this hole I didn’t expect.”
~ “You know, when I named you Queenie, it was because the moment you arrived in the world, I knew that you would forever be the ruler of my heart.”
* * this book includes the wedding of the couple from book 3 (Ryan and Queenie). Of course the father of the bride (Jake) continues his awesome dad swoony-ness…..
~ “I give her a kiss and a hug, and she takes her place at the altar. I sniff once and clear my throat, trying to keep my emotions in check. I’m not much of a crier, and never have been. But she’s my baby girl, and it doesn’t matter that she’s an adult. I’ll always remember the first time I held her in my arms, so tiny and new, and how she seemed like an impossible miracle.”
* * Jake’s initial reaction to the baby was not very supportive. I was worried I wasn’t going to be able to forgive him. But, shortly after, he apologizes and explains the reason behind his behavior and it made sense. I’m glad he came around quickly.
* * I appreciated the way both Jake and Hanna were able to explain their reactions / opinions. They didn’t try to railroad each other, but instead gave each other the space needed to be honest and to help each other work through the baggage from their pasts. Their ability to communicate helped reduce drama between the couple, which was perfect because there was enough drama they had to deal with in other areas
* * my heart broke for Hanna and the way she had to step aside and pretend her son was her brother. Families deal with teen pregnancy differently and I actually know a family in real life that chose this same way of “covering” up the situation. I found Hanna’s perspective and thoughts very heart wrenching at times.
~ ”It wasn’t until Ryan was born that I was allowed to come back home. I had a week with him before that happened. And the moment I walked through the door to my parents’ house—the baby that had grown inside of me, that I had given birth to and fell in love with—stopped being my son to the rest of the world. But my heart knew he was mine, even if no one else was supposed to. And that was the hardest part. Grieving a loss that no one could ever know about.”
~ “I’ll always experience the landmarks in Ryan’s life from the vantage point of his sister, even though in my heart I’m more than that. I’ll forever be in this strange middle ground between sibling and parent. I thought I’d come to terms with that long ago, and for the most part I have, but today hasn’t been easy. When I was younger, I didn’t have the same perspective I do now. I couldn’t see, in the same way, all the things I would have to take a back seat on.”
* * I thought this covered quite a few different topics: pre-menopause, risks associated with late in life pregnancy, honest reactions when you think you have raised a family and are starting over due to the baby surprise, navigating long-distance with patience rather than pressure, complicated family dynamics, career choices. A lot was packed into this story and I thought it was dealt with maturely
* * I’m glad that Hanna and Jake were able to experience what it’s like to raise a baby with a loving partner by your side. I felt they both deserved this kind of baby “second chance”
* * I liked Queenie’s upbeat, positive attitude and her support for both Hanna and Jake. However, she didn’t seem like quite the same person she was in the previous book. Maybe getting married just made her happier??? Not sure, but she just seemed a lot more bubbly in this book than in her own book (book 3)
**Overview:**
- Content Warning: teen pregnancy (heroine, now 46, got pregnant when she was 15).
- Setting: mostly Seattle, WA
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: yes. A major aspect of this story (biological mom pretending to be sister) was revealed in previous book. Plus, you need all the background from the previous book to understand the various side characters (and their reactions) in this book
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: secret relationship, parents of married kids fall in love, baby surprise, “older” couple
- Hero likeable? yes. I really liked Jake
- heroine likeable? yes, I really liked Hanna
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 3%
- First time they sleep together: Apparently 3% but this is all I got 🙁
~ “What’s left of the weekend is spent trading orgasms all over my house. And in the months that follow, my appetite for Hanna never wanes.”
~ The bedroom scene in chapter 4 was a bit more descriptive.
- Safe sex? usually they used a condom, except for one time
- First time they say I Love You 87%
- steamy? not in the beginning, kind of in the middle. But, once they found out they were pregnant then it became all about the baby and the choices they needed to make as a couple rather than descriptive sexy times
- Chemistry? I thought they made a good couple, but I wasn’t overwhelmed with their bedroom scenes
- OW/OM drama? No.
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? they had a bit of a long-distance thing going on in the beginning. But they weren’t technically dating at the time. They had a few weeks apart when they first found out about the baby. But once they were together, no more time apart
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? not from each other. The baby secret is revealed to the family around 41%
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Yes. Jake was a swoony dad to his 24 year old daughter. Plus he had lots of swoony moments as they prepared to welcome the new baby
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Four years later
- Recommend? Yes. This was my favorite of the whole series as I felt it had some depth and interesting subjects
Quotes:
“Take comfort in the fact you’re the eye candy for everyone over forty.”
“If you need to let it out, then let it out. I’m not afraid of tears, Hanna. I raised a teenage girl on my own. If I can handle irrational teenage girl tears, I can certainly handle reasonable, adult emotional tears.”
“Dammit. Oral skills, multiple Os, abs, and a boyfriend dick? You found a unicorn and you have to give him up. That’s just tragic.”
“How do you feel about seeing Hanna be a mom?” Queenie asks. “It makes me appreciate even more the relationship we had when I was growing up. She’s awesome. And now I get it. Why she needed this. Why she needed you.” He tickles JJ’s toes. “She deserves to be able to love in the way only moms do. In the way I couldn’t recognize she loved me my entire life, until now.”
“The thing about looking at your childhood through an adult lens is that you can see all the sides of the situations you were in, but they’re tainted by the emotions and perception of those events based on the age when they happened.”
September 8, 2021
Lo mejor que tiene esta historia es que no tiene a los clasicos personajes principales, ademas, pese a lo que imagine en un inicio, no hay apenas drama, lo que siempre es un plus, no soy la mayor fan del drama innecesario en los romances.
Es cierto que la historia es un tanto rebuscada en el sentido de que la pareja protagonista tenga tantos enlaces familiares, pero despues de asimilarlo no me resulto tan incomodo como lo que pueda parecer, eso si, las cenas Navideñas seran muy muy atipicas para Ryan, Queenie, Jake, Hanna y compañia.
La lectura es agil, divertida y con el toque justo de romance, me falto que la pareja protagonista tuviera mas momentos especiales, pero mayormente me tuvo entretenida y lo termine con un buen sabor de boca.
En fin, un cuarto tomo muy agradable, si te apetece leer algo simple entre novelas mas complejas o transcendentales, A Kiss For A Kiss es una opcion ideal.
2.75 Estrellas!
August 18, 2021
could easily be an extended epilogue of book three
May 27, 2021
3.5 Stars
So I liked this, but it was short. Like a little too short for my liking. I felt like the pacing was off, rushed almost. And I needed it to be 100 pages longer. I loved Jake and Hanna but they seemed rushed. I needed more build up, and I felt like we missed a bunch. The reason this is getting atleast 3.5 is because this was so sweet and it was so nice seeing old characters pop up. I especially loved seeing Alex and Violet as always and the hints of Kody and Lavender (aka Little Lies) made me melt.
I wish we had more. I wish we had more of Hanna and Jake together and even more of her pregnancy. I will say I still absoltely hated Hanna’s mom. She was just...not it. This was cute and solid!
So I liked this, but it was short. Like a little too short for my liking. I felt like the pacing was off, rushed almost. And I needed it to be 100 pages longer. I loved Jake and Hanna but they seemed rushed. I needed more build up, and I felt like we missed a bunch. The reason this is getting atleast 3.5 is because this was so sweet and it was so nice seeing old characters pop up. I especially loved seeing Alex and Violet as always and the hints of Kody and Lavender (aka Little Lies) made me melt.
I wish we had more. I wish we had more of Hanna and Jake together and even more of her pregnancy. I will say I still absoltely hated Hanna’s mom. She was just...not it. This was cute and solid!
May 29, 2021
I couldn't get into this at all.
I liked the idea, older woman, premenopausal finding out she's pregnant.
I didn't mind the complicated family dynamics.
But I think what spoilt it for me was the blurb gave away the first third of the book.
So we get to read them sneaking around, finding out she's pregnant then I felt it was new material.
I was just bored.
I have loved the previous in the series but sorry this one didn't work for me.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
Epilogue.
I liked the idea, older woman, premenopausal finding out she's pregnant.
I didn't mind the complicated family dynamics.
But I think what spoilt it for me was the blurb gave away the first third of the book.
So we get to read them sneaking around, finding out she's pregnant then I felt it was new material.
I was just bored.
I have loved the previous in the series but sorry this one didn't work for me.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2021
When I first saw that this book was coming out, I was a little skeptical as both Hanna and Jake are parents of adults. But the story was amazing and I absolutely loved them as a couple. I can relate as I am in that age range and some of the scenes were really funny. The surprise pregnancy was well written and not too far out there to be real. Loved catching up with all the players and their wives, especially Alex and Violet. You can never have too much Violet. So glad that story was part of the All In series.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 25, 2022
3.25 ✨
It was good, but strange. It prob would’ve been a 3.5 if the characters weren’t literally almost 50. However, then the story wouldn’t have made sense ofc.
I didn’t realize this series turns into the pucked series by this author, if you’ve never read that series, read that one first it’s actually far superior, all those books are 4-5 stars.
This one didn’t make it that high because of the characters ages and I didn’t like the female mcs mom at all, so then since the female mc had basically no backbone to her mom it made me dislike her…. But then randomly the mom realizes she’s wrong and her entire personality changed. Which just made me dislike her even more bc it didn’t make sense.
It was good, but strange. It prob would’ve been a 3.5 if the characters weren’t literally almost 50. However, then the story wouldn’t have made sense ofc.
I didn’t realize this series turns into the pucked series by this author, if you’ve never read that series, read that one first it’s actually far superior, all those books are 4-5 stars.
This one didn’t make it that high because of the characters ages and I didn’t like the female mcs mom at all, so then since the female mc had basically no backbone to her mom it made me dislike her…. But then randomly the mom realizes she’s wrong and her entire personality changed. Which just made me dislike her even more bc it didn’t make sense.
May 30, 2021
Dying for safety info on this!!!!!!!!!
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