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Aussie Cravings #1
Ace My Heart
“Dear God, pardon my French, but please don’t let me fuck this up!”
Melanie Black is cursed – just ask her crazy superstitious mother.
Her tennis career is teetering on the brink of fabulousness, but she can’t seem to make it past a quarter-final. She’s also desperate to break her yearlong sex-drought; a problem because the only men she sees with any regularity are her hard-arse coach Steve, and his infuriating (but hot as Hell) son, Joel. Oh, and her best friend Brad, but he doesn’t really count.
But Mel’s luck is about to change, as she finally breaks her quarter-final curse, and gets an invite for sexy-times with tennis superstar and renowned playboy Pete Levine. Things seems to be looking up, until a sudden, horrific event turns everything upside down.
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and she and Joel decide to work together to try and deal with the fallout and pick up the pieces of Mel’s career, even as their teasing, antagonistic relationship begins to feel the strain of constant proximity…
…Mel’s tennis career may be getting back on track, but as other parts of their lives spin out of control, things between the two are bound to become explosive – one way or another.
Melanie Black is cursed – just ask her crazy superstitious mother.
Her tennis career is teetering on the brink of fabulousness, but she can’t seem to make it past a quarter-final. She’s also desperate to break her yearlong sex-drought; a problem because the only men she sees with any regularity are her hard-arse coach Steve, and his infuriating (but hot as Hell) son, Joel. Oh, and her best friend Brad, but he doesn’t really count.
But Mel’s luck is about to change, as she finally breaks her quarter-final curse, and gets an invite for sexy-times with tennis superstar and renowned playboy Pete Levine. Things seems to be looking up, until a sudden, horrific event turns everything upside down.
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and she and Joel decide to work together to try and deal with the fallout and pick up the pieces of Mel’s career, even as their teasing, antagonistic relationship begins to feel the strain of constant proximity…
…Mel’s tennis career may be getting back on track, but as other parts of their lives spin out of control, things between the two are bound to become explosive – one way or another.
425 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2022
56 people are currently reading
738 people want to read
About the author
Layla Pine
10 books183 followersLayla has been writing stories ever since she could pick up a pencil and shape words. The most memorable works of her tween and teen years included a rap version of 'Little Red Riding Hood' and an embarrassingly spicy high school camp/murder mystery (which was possibly a sign of things to come).
Layla studied Communications at Newcastle University in NSW, Australia, and worked as a buyer and marketing coordinator in the education sector, before joining her husband in the family retail business. That's still her day job (she's very lucky her boss is pretty lenient, or she'd never get any writing done).
Layla lives on an acreage in regional NSW with her husband, two rambunctious children, four mostly feral cats, and an ancient German Shepherd who still thinks he's a puppy. Oh, and some angry Plovers that swoop her every spring without fail.
Layla studied Communications at Newcastle University in NSW, Australia, and worked as a buyer and marketing coordinator in the education sector, before joining her husband in the family retail business. That's still her day job (she's very lucky her boss is pretty lenient, or she'd never get any writing done).
Layla lives on an acreage in regional NSW with her husband, two rambunctious children, four mostly feral cats, and an ancient German Shepherd who still thinks he's a puppy. Oh, and some angry Plovers that swoop her every spring without fail.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
June 8, 2024
Loved this romance mixed with murder mystery!
Mel is incredibly relatable with her relationship dramas and constant doubts of herself. Joel is a typical Australian jokester, flirting with anyone. They have some hilarious banter together.
I loved the twists I didn't see coming and the spice was perfect! I can't wait to read the rest of Layla's books.
Mel is incredibly relatable with her relationship dramas and constant doubts of herself. Joel is a typical Australian jokester, flirting with anyone. They have some hilarious banter together.
I loved the twists I didn't see coming and the spice was perfect! I can't wait to read the rest of Layla's books.
January 26, 2024
Melanie Black's tennis career is haunted by a quarter-final curse, and her love life is in dire straits. When she finally breaks the curse and gets a chance with tennis star Pete Levine, tragedy strikes, forcing her to team up with Joel, her coach's son. As they navigate the fallout, their relationship teeters on the edge, promising either fireworks or a new beginning.
This book is an absolute delight, the plot was so good had was filled with gripping suspense and unexpected twists. I adored Mel she was so fun and such a perfect FMC, I am so glad I waited until Tennis time to read this because the vibes were 10/10. Mel and Joel's chemistry is sizzling, and their banter is hilarious. The ending will leave you stunned, I was so convinced it was going a different way but I was wrong. I just know the next book will be another knock out.
Tropes: sports romance (tennis), murder mystery, enemies to friends to lovers, coach's son
🌶️: start at 50% vanilla sex, around 3 described scenes, might have praise kink and maybe one butt play scene.
This book is an absolute delight, the plot was so good had was filled with gripping suspense and unexpected twists. I adored Mel she was so fun and such a perfect FMC, I am so glad I waited until Tennis time to read this because the vibes were 10/10. Mel and Joel's chemistry is sizzling, and their banter is hilarious. The ending will leave you stunned, I was so convinced it was going a different way but I was wrong. I just know the next book will be another knock out.
Tropes: sports romance (tennis), murder mystery, enemies to friends to lovers, coach's son
🌶️: start at 50% vanilla sex, around 3 described scenes, might have praise kink and maybe one butt play scene.
March 18, 2024
I love Layla and her books so so much.
I have read the rest of her Aussie Cravings series and had to read this one too. Which I was able to snag the audiobook on Libby. I also have to say Tanya (who did the audio) did a fantastic job. I loved her voice so much it was epic!!
This book was so interesting and mysterious and the spice was amazing as always. I can’t wait for more of Layla’s books.
I have read the rest of her Aussie Cravings series and had to read this one too. Which I was able to snag the audiobook on Libby. I also have to say Tanya (who did the audio) did a fantastic job. I loved her voice so much it was epic!!
This book was so interesting and mysterious and the spice was amazing as always. I can’t wait for more of Layla’s books.
May 27, 2024
Layla Pine, I have no words right now to convey how this book fits into my heart ! I was originally apprehensive but the push from someone got me to reading Laylas books and this story.
The story of Tennis Star Mel and Joel is incredible, we see things we didn’t see coming, the plot line was phenomenal, the character depth and when you think you’ve got it figured out ..nope. You grow to love characters you originally hated and you grow more in love with Mel, Joel (we can’t forget Connor either) and their friends.
I cannot waaaaaait to read what’s next in the Aussie Cravings series.
I would rate this more than 5 ⭐️ if I could
The story of Tennis Star Mel and Joel is incredible, we see things we didn’t see coming, the plot line was phenomenal, the character depth and when you think you’ve got it figured out ..nope. You grow to love characters you originally hated and you grow more in love with Mel, Joel (we can’t forget Connor either) and their friends.
I cannot waaaaaait to read what’s next in the Aussie Cravings series.
I would rate this more than 5 ⭐️ if I could
November 1, 2022
What a refreshing murder-mystery-romance!
Ace My Heart is about Mel, a tennis pro who’s coach is brutally murdered. Joel, the coaches son, steps up and becomes her coach and together they mourn, laugh, and annoy each other.
The murder mystery side to this story was refreshing, I was certain I knew who the murderer was (twice) and both times, I was wrong.
The romance side to this story gives me goosebumps. They act like they are siblings with the way they bicker, but when times are tough they are there for each other through thick and thin.
“Please, God, help me to find a guy. Not one who just thinks I’m hot and wants to screw me, but one who will take the time to get to know me, with all my crazy fucked-upness, and who can love all of me. One who can help me to … to trust him, because after … well, everything, I just really need some help with that.
Oh, and if you have time, can you give Joel Herbert genital herpes? If he hasn’t got them already that is. Thanks God.”
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, 5/5⭐️ loved it loved it loved it!!
Ace My Heart is about Mel, a tennis pro who’s coach is brutally murdered. Joel, the coaches son, steps up and becomes her coach and together they mourn, laugh, and annoy each other.
The murder mystery side to this story was refreshing, I was certain I knew who the murderer was (twice) and both times, I was wrong.
The romance side to this story gives me goosebumps. They act like they are siblings with the way they bicker, but when times are tough they are there for each other through thick and thin.
“Please, God, help me to find a guy. Not one who just thinks I’m hot and wants to screw me, but one who will take the time to get to know me, with all my crazy fucked-upness, and who can love all of me. One who can help me to … to trust him, because after … well, everything, I just really need some help with that.
Oh, and if you have time, can you give Joel Herbert genital herpes? If he hasn’t got them already that is. Thanks God.”
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, 5/5⭐️ loved it loved it loved it!!
November 3, 2022
I absolutely loved this book!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The right balance between sports romance and murder-mystery that will keep you guessing to the end with every twist and turn. The main characters Mel and Joel have a push-pull slow burn relationship that is so worth it in the end 🥵🥵. Thought here is plenty of spice throughout the book.
The character depth is wonderful and I think we all need a Joel in our lives, a mix of hot alpha, cheeky, hilarious, supportive and protective.
You would never guess this was Layla Pine’s first novel. Beautifully written and the editing is perfection.
I hope some of the side characters get their story too, I can’t wait!
The right balance between sports romance and murder-mystery that will keep you guessing to the end with every twist and turn. The main characters Mel and Joel have a push-pull slow burn relationship that is so worth it in the end 🥵🥵. Thought here is plenty of spice throughout the book.
The character depth is wonderful and I think we all need a Joel in our lives, a mix of hot alpha, cheeky, hilarious, supportive and protective.
You would never guess this was Layla Pine’s first novel. Beautifully written and the editing is perfection.
I hope some of the side characters get their story too, I can’t wait!
November 20, 2022
This book was so good I could not put it down once I started! The slow burn between Joel and Mel along with the fun, witty banter was perfection.
I was not expecting the murder-mystery part of the story, but I absolutely loved every minute of it. I was so convinced I knew who it was that the revelation of who it actually was blew me away!
My favourite line was, “I didn’t steal it, Stinky. I traded it. Yours for mine.” Swoon!!!
Joel is deliciously sexy, cheeky, protective and loving in all the right ways. I am obsessed with him!
There were a few other twists in this book that were done to perfection, and I cannot believe that this is Layla’s debut novel. It was impeccably written, fast paced and a real page turner. I’m so excited to read more of her work!
I was not expecting the murder-mystery part of the story, but I absolutely loved every minute of it. I was so convinced I knew who it was that the revelation of who it actually was blew me away!
My favourite line was, “I didn’t steal it, Stinky. I traded it. Yours for mine.” Swoon!!!
Joel is deliciously sexy, cheeky, protective and loving in all the right ways. I am obsessed with him!
There were a few other twists in this book that were done to perfection, and I cannot believe that this is Layla’s debut novel. It was impeccably written, fast paced and a real page turner. I’m so excited to read more of her work!
May 22, 2023
‘“I didn’t steal it, Stinky. I trade it. Yours for mine.”’ - Joel Herbert.
Ace My Heart is everything you didn’t know you needed.
Mel Black is a professional tennis player trying to make a name for herself while living her best life, enjoying the company of her cat and trying not to kill her coaches son.
Joel Herbert is easy on the eyes, flirty, fun and Mel’s new trainer. He lives to annoy her but also has her best interest at heart. Oh and the coaches son.
Mel and Joel’s story is unlike anything I’ve ever read before. The tennis aspect is new to me and then throw in a murder or two, some stalking, angst and mysteries around every corner. I was completely addicted. I enjoyed it so much.
I love Layla’s writing, it flows seamlessly and captures the readers entire attention. The character and plot development is perfection, you can tell they are thoroughly planned and thought out.
This book has everything that is missing in the romance genre. It’s so refreshing, fun and compelling.
There was a few things I saw coming but that revelation or revelations, I did not. I was shocked when it was all revealed.
I cannot wait to read another one of Layla Pine’s books.
5 Stars.
Highly recommend.
Ace My Heart is everything you didn’t know you needed.
Mel Black is a professional tennis player trying to make a name for herself while living her best life, enjoying the company of her cat and trying not to kill her coaches son.
Joel Herbert is easy on the eyes, flirty, fun and Mel’s new trainer. He lives to annoy her but also has her best interest at heart. Oh and the coaches son.
Mel and Joel’s story is unlike anything I’ve ever read before. The tennis aspect is new to me and then throw in a murder or two, some stalking, angst and mysteries around every corner. I was completely addicted. I enjoyed it so much.
I love Layla’s writing, it flows seamlessly and captures the readers entire attention. The character and plot development is perfection, you can tell they are thoroughly planned and thought out.
This book has everything that is missing in the romance genre. It’s so refreshing, fun and compelling.
There was a few things I saw coming but that revelation or revelations, I did not. I was shocked when it was all revealed.
I cannot wait to read another one of Layla Pine’s books.
5 Stars.
Highly recommend.
March 17, 2023
Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi
This book was Bloody amazing!
My Top 3 Reasons for recommending this book.
1. Mel and Joel - Their banter relationship was so fun to go through. From annoying teasing to hot and steamy teasing! They stood by each other no matter what and were there for each other when it mattered the most. The Tension was so so so good and i was chomping at the bit for them to finally give into their urges.
2. The suspense! So there is a Crime..... MURDER!!!! This sprinkled in with a sports romance makes this book unlike anything ive ever read. I couldn't stop until i pieced together all the clues and found out who the killer was... its not who you think! it had me second guessing and following the twists and turns until they were finally unmasked! Also Dectective Taylor can go Suck a D*ck.... what happened to girls supporting girls?
3. The downright true blue Aussie-ness!!! I dont read alot of Aussie Contemporary books but it brought me so much joy reading a book about places ive been, grew up (i was born on the coast of NSW) the slang we use and Aussie everyday items! Thank you Layla for bringing a piece of our Aussie charm into this book.
This book was Bloody amazing!
My Top 3 Reasons for recommending this book.
1. Mel and Joel - Their banter relationship was so fun to go through. From annoying teasing to hot and steamy teasing! They stood by each other no matter what and were there for each other when it mattered the most. The Tension was so so so good and i was chomping at the bit for them to finally give into their urges.
2. The suspense! So there is a Crime..... MURDER!!!! This sprinkled in with a sports romance makes this book unlike anything ive ever read. I couldn't stop until i pieced together all the clues and found out who the killer was... its not who you think! it had me second guessing and following the twists and turns until they were finally unmasked! Also Dectective Taylor can go Suck a D*ck.... what happened to girls supporting girls?
3. The downright true blue Aussie-ness!!! I dont read alot of Aussie Contemporary books but it brought me so much joy reading a book about places ive been, grew up (i was born on the coast of NSW) the slang we use and Aussie everyday items! Thank you Layla for bringing a piece of our Aussie charm into this book.
March 26, 2024
Edit: 26 March 2024 - I just reread the audiobook of this and OH MY GOD IT’S PHENOMENAL!! How did this book get even better?? This is why Layla is my fave author, and her narrator 👌🏻
Ok so I want to start by saying this is SO FAR out of my normal genre, I am not usually one for romance, let alone SPORT romance.
But this was amazing! I absolutely love Layla’s writing style, and although it took me a minute to get into it once I hit that 40%ish mark I absolutely devoured the rest of the book in a day. I loved that this wasn’t just a romance, it was a nice little romance/sport/murder mystery bundle and I honestly was guessing most of the way through, you get little snippets of things that make you think you know what is happened and then it’s got flipped on it’s head and I had no idea anymore.
I will absolutely be picking up more from this author. Her character building, world building and even the sporting side of this book was fantastic. Everything was so well wrapped up, and even just the little details throughout that you think back to at the end of the book and realise how in depth the writing actually is. Loved it. Loved the slow burn. Loved all of it.
Ok so I want to start by saying this is SO FAR out of my normal genre, I am not usually one for romance, let alone SPORT romance.
But this was amazing! I absolutely love Layla’s writing style, and although it took me a minute to get into it once I hit that 40%ish mark I absolutely devoured the rest of the book in a day. I loved that this wasn’t just a romance, it was a nice little romance/sport/murder mystery bundle and I honestly was guessing most of the way through, you get little snippets of things that make you think you know what is happened and then it’s got flipped on it’s head and I had no idea anymore.
I will absolutely be picking up more from this author. Her character building, world building and even the sporting side of this book was fantastic. Everything was so well wrapped up, and even just the little details throughout that you think back to at the end of the book and realise how in depth the writing actually is. Loved it. Loved the slow burn. Loved all of it.
December 8, 2023
5/5 ⭐️
This has everything! The plot is 10/10 amazing! The who done it, and second guessing and plot twists was insane! The plot drew me in and hooked me I didn’t want to put this book down!
Mel’s character felt real, it was so easy to connect with her! I loved her, her personality. I’m not the biggest tennis fan but I did really enjoy the little bit of insight we got into tennis while reading this.
Mel’s and Joel’s chemistry 🥵🥵🥵 the spice in this book was great but the banter between these to had me laughing!
I thought I knew who the killer was and was so shocked at who it was at the end! Honestly loved this book!
I listened to it on audible and the narration was amazing! I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series!
Do check the trigger warnings before reading
This has everything! The plot is 10/10 amazing! The who done it, and second guessing and plot twists was insane! The plot drew me in and hooked me I didn’t want to put this book down!
Mel’s character felt real, it was so easy to connect with her! I loved her, her personality. I’m not the biggest tennis fan but I did really enjoy the little bit of insight we got into tennis while reading this.
Mel’s and Joel’s chemistry 🥵🥵🥵 the spice in this book was great but the banter between these to had me laughing!
I thought I knew who the killer was and was so shocked at who it was at the end! Honestly loved this book!
I listened to it on audible and the narration was amazing! I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series!
Do check the trigger warnings before reading
March 14, 2024
I went in blind and I highly recommend you do the same cause it was not what I was expecting at all. I had tried so hard to guess who did it and I was almost right til I wasn't 😂 the plot twist was totally worth to wait, it was such an adventure!
I really adored Joel and the Aussie banter made me feel at home, I loved it!!
I really adored Joel and the Aussie banter made me feel at home, I loved it!!
April 6, 2024
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🎤 Tanya Dougherty
📚 single POV, 1st person.
Do I recommend this book: 👍
♥️ romcom, murder mystery
♥️ Australian setting
♥️ sports romance
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🎤 Tanya Dougherty
📚 single POV, 1st person.
Do I recommend this book: 👍
♥️ romcom, murder mystery
♥️ Australian setting
♥️ sports romance
January 3, 2026
A fun Aussie romance story, with some mystery.
‘Last night I’d scratched an itch. But it was like a mozzie bite: instead of feeling relief, it had become more inflamed and irritated.’
‘Last night I’d scratched an itch. But it was like a mozzie bite: instead of feeling relief, it had become more inflamed and irritated.’
December 11, 2022
Ace my Heart by Layla Pine is one of my favorite reads of this year.
It felt so fresh and unique to follow Mel, a profession tennis player who is unapologetic about what she wants in her profession, personal, and sexual life.
When her coach is murdered, Mel has no time to fully mourn because the police are questioning her and she needs to continue her world tour competition.
Her coach's annoying son Joel steps up to train her and somehow the bickering and lingering looks feel different.
The slow burn, spicy, aspect of this book is absolutely amazing. The tension is great and when they finally get together it is amazing.
The murder mystery thread in this story is equally amazing. I felt like I knew who the killer was and then BOOM another murder happened that changed my mind. By the end of the book, I was shocked to see who the killer is and the motivations behind it.
I loved every page of this book. The writing is amazing, the characters are memorable, and the pacing of the mystery and the romance was spot on!
This debut novel is everything you are going to want and more!
I will immediately read any other book this author publishes because I know it will be fantastic.
It felt so fresh and unique to follow Mel, a profession tennis player who is unapologetic about what she wants in her profession, personal, and sexual life.
When her coach is murdered, Mel has no time to fully mourn because the police are questioning her and she needs to continue her world tour competition.
Her coach's annoying son Joel steps up to train her and somehow the bickering and lingering looks feel different.
The slow burn, spicy, aspect of this book is absolutely amazing. The tension is great and when they finally get together it is amazing.
The murder mystery thread in this story is equally amazing. I felt like I knew who the killer was and then BOOM another murder happened that changed my mind. By the end of the book, I was shocked to see who the killer is and the motivations behind it.
I loved every page of this book. The writing is amazing, the characters are memorable, and the pacing of the mystery and the romance was spot on!
This debut novel is everything you are going to want and more!
I will immediately read any other book this author publishes because I know it will be fantastic.
December 7, 2022
Loved it!!
I absolutely loved it. I read it it one sitting.
This book has great, witty banter, chemistry. Everything.
I highly recommend.
This is one book I will definitely read again!
I absolutely loved it. I read it it one sitting.
This book has great, witty banter, chemistry. Everything.
I highly recommend.
This is one book I will definitely read again!
January 5, 2023
Came for the romance, stayed for the murder mystery!
This is Layla Pine’s debut novel featuring a tennis pro Melanie who is struggling to make it past the quarter finals. Throw in a murder and her coaches annoying son and you have Ace my Heart!
I really loved the banter in this book that carried the whole thing. The mystery kept me engaged and wanting to read more. I thought for sure I knew who the killer was and then BAM the plot twist came and I was shocked. It’s not everyday that happens lol. Melanie’s cat was a fun side character and it was really refreshing to see the female be the one in the sport. Also- I’ve never read a tennis romance book before and all I’m saying is there needs to be more!!
There were a few things I didn’t love like the fact that the 2 main characters were continually having sex with other people till just over half way. Yes they weren’t together so it was fine but I still don’t like reading about if it’s not with the MC? It was a little too much and it got a bit annoying.
Overall though, I enjoyed this debut and am excited to see what Layla does in the future.
Book given graciously to me by the Author! This in no way changes my opinion.
This is Layla Pine’s debut novel featuring a tennis pro Melanie who is struggling to make it past the quarter finals. Throw in a murder and her coaches annoying son and you have Ace my Heart!
I really loved the banter in this book that carried the whole thing. The mystery kept me engaged and wanting to read more. I thought for sure I knew who the killer was and then BAM the plot twist came and I was shocked. It’s not everyday that happens lol. Melanie’s cat was a fun side character and it was really refreshing to see the female be the one in the sport. Also- I’ve never read a tennis romance book before and all I’m saying is there needs to be more!!
There were a few things I didn’t love like the fact that the 2 main characters were continually having sex with other people till just over half way. Yes they weren’t together so it was fine but I still don’t like reading about if it’s not with the MC? It was a little too much and it got a bit annoying.
Overall though, I enjoyed this debut and am excited to see what Layla does in the future.
Book given graciously to me by the Author! This in no way changes my opinion.
September 21, 2024
Ok, so I know I may be the odd one out, but I just don’t love this book like I thought I would. I didn’t connect with the characters, I found them both really annoying and I just couldn’t relate to them or their troubles. I don’t know if it’s because I’m younger or what, I just didn’t really like them. Mel got on my nerves because I felt like she was really immature and just didn’t know what she was doing. I get that that may have been the point, but it didn’t land with me. So without that connection or relation to the characters, it didn’t engage me like I wanted it too.
Another thing I didn’t like was the language. The book was full of Aussie colloquialisms and stereotypes, which annoyed me and made me cringe. I’ve found that a lot when reading books set in Australia that the language used makes me cringe. I don’t know why this is, maybe just because I’m so close to it or that as part of the younger generations, you don’t here that much of that language anymore, but I don’t think it’s the authors fault at all. It’s just a preference of mine to not have that overly Australian tone and language. So that’s not a criticism of the author or book, just something I have found that I don’t like that much.
What I did like was the spice! It was really great and I enjoyed reading it. I felt like there was a connection there and the build up was really beautiful. It was the absolute longest slow build I’ve ever read and it was satisfying to see them dance around each other. The murder mystery aspect of the book was done well I think and the twist was completely unexpected. I did not expect that person at all to be behind it! So it was executed well so as not to give any clues or hints to the person, and that’s what kept it intriguing for me and why I kept on reading.
Overall, this was not a bad book one bit. It was good with aspects that I didn’t enjoy so much, but I would recommend for anyone to read and support this Aussie, Indie author ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another thing I didn’t like was the language. The book was full of Aussie colloquialisms and stereotypes, which annoyed me and made me cringe. I’ve found that a lot when reading books set in Australia that the language used makes me cringe. I don’t know why this is, maybe just because I’m so close to it or that as part of the younger generations, you don’t here that much of that language anymore, but I don’t think it’s the authors fault at all. It’s just a preference of mine to not have that overly Australian tone and language. So that’s not a criticism of the author or book, just something I have found that I don’t like that much.
What I did like was the spice! It was really great and I enjoyed reading it. I felt like there was a connection there and the build up was really beautiful. It was the absolute longest slow build I’ve ever read and it was satisfying to see them dance around each other. The murder mystery aspect of the book was done well I think and the twist was completely unexpected. I did not expect that person at all to be behind it! So it was executed well so as not to give any clues or hints to the person, and that’s what kept it intriguing for me and why I kept on reading.
Overall, this was not a bad book one bit. It was good with aspects that I didn’t enjoy so much, but I would recommend for anyone to read and support this Aussie, Indie author ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 25, 2022
😍Im a big fan of murder-mystery-romance!
🇦🇺Loved the Australian Open references, its an amazing tournament.
💋Tennis player & New coach, who are friends.
🤔Did I pick the murderer! no! - im not spoiling anything on that front.
☺️Did I love the HEA yes. Book has nice fresh sports contemporary edgy energy.
👫🎾👟Friends to lovers.
🎾Sports romance written with athletic knowledge.
🏖Great beach read. This is your chill read.
Mel's Hot Shot Tennis player.-denial of her attraction Joel Takes us on her journey to the inevitable. Shes the grump to his sunshine.
😎I did enjoy a female character that was sexually confident.
🐸Yes gotta kiss a few frogs before you know Joel's the one. But along this spicy road it was thoroughly relationship. suspenseful..... I loved those breadcumbs.
😃He fell first!
Joel is playful! engaging sexy & protective.He knows Mel is for him - you can feel it to your core.I loved this.
🥵Spicy&Sensual! Joel's seduction of Mel and ability to leave her breathless before losing a stitch of clothing is good.readers.so good.🤭🤗🤫🥵
🙂Full of inner circle banter nicknames
Endearment exchanges. Now this teasing dont mistake for immaturity now - see this as the only way to communicate with certain roadblocks in this long game love story.Think hidden relationship/forbidden relationship trope.
🙂Ive got your back&We can get through this together.
🙃Was a nice change from bully trope - that can be the norm for sports romance.
🙂Allowed endless Humour filled situations falling for someone you never considered a option for yourself.
enjoyable make this your beach read, your snow read. Your all round chill read
🥰Sporty,Spicy & lil Murdery
🥰I hope some of the other characters feature in further stories.
🤪I will update review on my next reread. These are my first thoughts.
Read it!
🧐Jasmin E Reads
🇦🇺Loved the Australian Open references, its an amazing tournament.
💋Tennis player & New coach, who are friends.
🤔Did I pick the murderer! no! - im not spoiling anything on that front.
☺️Did I love the HEA yes. Book has nice fresh sports contemporary edgy energy.
👫🎾👟Friends to lovers.
🎾Sports romance written with athletic knowledge.
🏖Great beach read. This is your chill read.
Mel's Hot Shot Tennis player.-denial of her attraction Joel Takes us on her journey to the inevitable. Shes the grump to his sunshine.
😎I did enjoy a female character that was sexually confident.
🐸Yes gotta kiss a few frogs before you know Joel's the one. But along this spicy road it was thoroughly relationship. suspenseful..... I loved those breadcumbs.
😃He fell first!
Joel is playful! engaging sexy & protective.He knows Mel is for him - you can feel it to your core.I loved this.
🥵Spicy&Sensual! Joel's seduction of Mel and ability to leave her breathless before losing a stitch of clothing is good.readers.so good.🤭🤗🤫🥵
🙂Full of inner circle banter nicknames
Endearment exchanges. Now this teasing dont mistake for immaturity now - see this as the only way to communicate with certain roadblocks in this long game love story.Think hidden relationship/forbidden relationship trope.
🙂Ive got your back&We can get through this together.
🙃Was a nice change from bully trope - that can be the norm for sports romance.
🙂Allowed endless Humour filled situations falling for someone you never considered a option for yourself.
enjoyable make this your beach read, your snow read. Your all round chill read
🥰Sporty,Spicy & lil Murdery
🥰I hope some of the other characters feature in further stories.
🤪I will update review on my next reread. These are my first thoughts.
Read it!
🧐Jasmin E Reads
March 5, 2023
What an amazing book by an extremely talented Aussie author!!!! It was really refreshing to read a book based on things in your own country.
Melanie Black is a a tennis superstar who is dedicated to her career - with a tough coach on her back Steve. Life got turned upside down for Mel when she lost her big game followed by her coach's murder. Joel (the sons coach) steps in to help Mel and support her through her grief... The murders however didn't stop there, every man Mel had been in contact with are suddenly being murdered all around her....
This story takes you on a wild ride of sex, murder mysteries, love interests, heartbreaks and so much more!!! A really great read in which I thoroughly enjoyed!!! Great job Layla - I'm really looking forward to reading more of your talented work !!!
Melanie Black is a a tennis superstar who is dedicated to her career - with a tough coach on her back Steve. Life got turned upside down for Mel when she lost her big game followed by her coach's murder. Joel (the sons coach) steps in to help Mel and support her through her grief... The murders however didn't stop there, every man Mel had been in contact with are suddenly being murdered all around her....
This story takes you on a wild ride of sex, murder mysteries, love interests, heartbreaks and so much more!!! A really great read in which I thoroughly enjoyed!!! Great job Layla - I'm really looking forward to reading more of your talented work !!!
June 4, 2023
Murder Mystery and Sports Romance
This book was so good! To be a debut novel, you would never know! I wanted to devour this book each time I sat down to read (and can thank my job for taking time away from reading lol).
Oh the delicious steam and tension between Joel and Melanie, and boy was I all twisted up with angst waiting for it. Gotta make it through a good 70% of the book, but it was so worth it! Their witty banter was perfection and I caught myself lmao at those punches!
The mystery was on point! I was going around in circles and picking up on little bits here and there and thinking I had it all figured out, but d@mn she got me good! I did NOT see that plot twist coming!
I had all the runs of emotions through this book too and I absolutely loved the slow burn and the growth of their relationship. It made the first “ILY” so much sweeter! Excellent read!
This book was so good! To be a debut novel, you would never know! I wanted to devour this book each time I sat down to read (and can thank my job for taking time away from reading lol).
Oh the delicious steam and tension between Joel and Melanie, and boy was I all twisted up with angst waiting for it. Gotta make it through a good 70% of the book, but it was so worth it! Their witty banter was perfection and I caught myself lmao at those punches!
The mystery was on point! I was going around in circles and picking up on little bits here and there and thinking I had it all figured out, but d@mn she got me good! I did NOT see that plot twist coming!
I had all the runs of emotions through this book too and I absolutely loved the slow burn and the growth of their relationship. It made the first “ILY” so much sweeter! Excellent read!
January 9, 2023
I love this book so so much.
I could not put it down. It left me wanting more n more.
The slow burn between Mel and Joel was perfect!!!
Mel a tennis sports star who’s coach gets murdered. The coaches son who becomes the new trainer. The annoyance towards each other turns to friendship and coworkers to love.
What a perfect balance of Sports, Romance, Murder Mystery and so full of twists and turns.
I have a craving for a Caramello Koalas now and they will always remind me of Ace My Heart!!!
I could not put it down. It left me wanting more n more.
The slow burn between Mel and Joel was perfect!!!
Mel a tennis sports star who’s coach gets murdered. The coaches son who becomes the new trainer. The annoyance towards each other turns to friendship and coworkers to love.
What a perfect balance of Sports, Romance, Murder Mystery and so full of twists and turns.
I have a craving for a Caramello Koalas now and they will always remind me of Ace My Heart!!!
January 2, 2023
THIS BOOK! Slow burn sports romance, with plenty of steam, some one night stands to keep our female main character occupied while she figures it out 😆
This was so exhilarating! The murder mystery and the twists, my heart was all over the shop - eyes WIDE open reading this. So many funny parts as well, I don't think I've thought OMG so many times while reading a book. Definitely re-reading this one!
This was so exhilarating! The murder mystery and the twists, my heart was all over the shop - eyes WIDE open reading this. So many funny parts as well, I don't think I've thought OMG so many times while reading a book. Definitely re-reading this one!
January 14, 2024
i LOVED this book. the banter between Joel and Mel was everything. this was the right amount of mystery and romance. once i properly started this book (from about 16%) i could not put it down. not only did i have multiple different theories which spoiler; turned out to all be wrong. i also was giggling and kicking my feet whilst also becoming enraged at certain parts. the slow burn BURNED but it was definitely worth it. please please read this book <3
August 28, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this the banter is elite between Joel and Melanie I loved the murder mystery side of it and I didn’t guess who it was the twist and turns thrown in with the who done it was amazing 🤩
The spice when you got it was so damn good I loved this is set in Australia and having tennis as the main focus is something different from my normal hockey romance
Layla is amazing 100% would recommend this
I absolutely loved this the banter is elite between Joel and Melanie I loved the murder mystery side of it and I didn’t guess who it was the twist and turns thrown in with the who done it was amazing 🤩
The spice when you got it was so damn good I loved this is set in Australia and having tennis as the main focus is something different from my normal hockey romance
Layla is amazing 100% would recommend this
November 24, 2022
Such a cute and steamy story. I was rooting for Joel from the minute it started. Mel is strong and confident and I loved seeing her growth as a person and a player. I don’t know anything about tennis and still felt riveted by the action here. And the mystery? I was so sure I knew who the killer was! I didn’t! Definitely worth a read! A killer (pun intended) novel!
December 29, 2022
What an amazing read!
I love a book with good banter and epic sexual tension, and this book gave it all!
While Mel is working hard at her tennis career and trying (failing) to pretend she doesn’t want to jump the bones of her tennis coach, there are also people in her life that keep winding up dead, and she has no idea why or who is murdering them.
It’s an awesome twist on a romantic comedy trope, and one I would thoroughly read again.
The pacing of the story perfect and the book itself is well written.
I can’t wait to read more from Layla in the future!
I love a book with good banter and epic sexual tension, and this book gave it all!
While Mel is working hard at her tennis career and trying (failing) to pretend she doesn’t want to jump the bones of her tennis coach, there are also people in her life that keep winding up dead, and she has no idea why or who is murdering them.
It’s an awesome twist on a romantic comedy trope, and one I would thoroughly read again.
The pacing of the story perfect and the book itself is well written.
I can’t wait to read more from Layla in the future!
December 18, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. The slow burn got me good. It is definitely a page turner, I read it in two days!
I can't believe this is Layla's debut book, I cannot wait to read what she produces next.
I highly recommend "Ace my heart"
I can't believe this is Layla's debut book, I cannot wait to read what she produces next.
I highly recommend "Ace my heart"
March 30, 2023
✍️ Melanie a professional tennis player is struggling to make it past the semi finals. When her coach Steve is brutally murdered, his son Joel becomes her new trainer and together they try to pick up the pieces whilst battling the police and their feelings for each other.
Spice, Humour, Romance, Murder, "Ace my Heart" had all the themes I liked and more. I found the storyline to be very Entertaining and Twisty and the dialogue between the characters Quick -Witted, Flirty and Engaging. A well written debut story that I would recommend to anyone who loves a bit of romance and murder combined.
It was a little bit slow to begin with however once it got started it was hard to put down and kept me captivated by the Murder Mystery and Romance component of the story.
The characters were well executed and appealing and I relished the balance between the light and the dark side of the story as a whole. I considered the connection between Melanie and Joel to be of a good speed and endurance in terms of the way the two of them were communicating as well as the cheeky, flirty and protective nature of Joel towards Melanie which made for an immersive read.
There was many twists and turns that I didn't see coming. Wonderful storytelling.
Spice, Humour, Romance, Murder, "Ace my Heart" had all the themes I liked and more. I found the storyline to be very Entertaining and Twisty and the dialogue between the characters Quick -Witted, Flirty and Engaging. A well written debut story that I would recommend to anyone who loves a bit of romance and murder combined.
It was a little bit slow to begin with however once it got started it was hard to put down and kept me captivated by the Murder Mystery and Romance component of the story.
The characters were well executed and appealing and I relished the balance between the light and the dark side of the story as a whole. I considered the connection between Melanie and Joel to be of a good speed and endurance in terms of the way the two of them were communicating as well as the cheeky, flirty and protective nature of Joel towards Melanie which made for an immersive read.
There was many twists and turns that I didn't see coming. Wonderful storytelling.
April 18, 2025
"I traded it. Yours for mine."
This book has popped my Layla Pine cherry, and I'm definitely not mad! 🤭 Murder Mystery 🧐 x Spicy Romance 🌶... What more could you ask for? I am definitely left Craving more Aussies and excited to continue this series. 😋
This book has popped my Layla Pine cherry, and I'm definitely not mad! 🤭 Murder Mystery 🧐 x Spicy Romance 🌶... What more could you ask for? I am definitely left Craving more Aussies and excited to continue this series. 😋
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