What do you think?
Rate this book
Hit Me With Your Best Shot
All new sports romance stories from six bestselling authors!
They may be players on the field and rule over a million hearts. But watch them lose theirs in the all-new angsty and steamy stories by six of your favorite sports romance authors.
They may be players on the field and rule over a million hearts. But watch them lose theirs in the all-new angsty and steamy stories by six of your favorite sports romance authors.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2024
About the author
Saffron A. Kent
33 books5,647 followersSaffron A. Kent is a USA Today Bestselling Author of Contemporary and New Adult romance.
She has an MFA in Creative Writing and she lives in New York City with her nerdy and supportive husband, along with a million and one books.
She has an MFA in Creative Writing and she lives in New York City with her nerdy and supportive husband, along with a million and one books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 414 reviews
Read
March 17, 20242/5
I'm not rating the entire anthology because I've only read one story from it, so it wouldn't be fair. I don't know if I plan to read more, maybe I'll read the Jay McLean’s one too, but we'll see.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Sadly, I didn't like it, it didn't feel like a short story, but as if the author had torn out part of a book and published it here. I don't know if that makes sense but that's how I felt when I read it.
Also, our main characters had loved each other for years, they had given each other a million obvious hints that they wanted something more, there was nothing against them being together, and they still weren't together? It was stupid.
I'm not rating the entire anthology because I've only read one story from it, so it wouldn't be fair. I don't know if I plan to read more, maybe I'll read the Jay McLean’s one too, but we'll see.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Sadly, I didn't like it, it didn't feel like a short story, but as if the author had torn out part of a book and published it here. I don't know if that makes sense but that's how I felt when I read it.
Also, our main characters had loved each other for years, they had given each other a million obvious hints that they wanted something more, there was nothing against them being together, and they still weren't together? It was stupid.
March 7, 2024
❀ 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 ❀ By Jay McLean. Spoken in 'dual perspectives.' ❥ Harlow & Jace ❥
She’s back!! God how I’ve missed this authors words! I started this as soon as I’d settled into bed and didn’t stop until I’d finished!
This was such a tease leaving me craving more, this author always effectively reels me in with her ability to have me eating out of the palm of her hand effortlessly with everything she writes! And boy this little teaser packed one hell of a big punch and I’m so excited to read more!
This had me feeling all the emotions
Our heroine is wading through the darkness of grief with no one to guide her through her pain back to the light. Maybe he’ll be her knight in shining armour.
‘𝑰𝒇 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑹𝒐𝒘𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒅 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆, 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑲𝒏𝒐𝒙 𝑯𝒆𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒉. 𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆-𝒔𝒊𝒛𝒆 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔. 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒖𝒚𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅.’Our hero is the school’s god, the golden boy of Rowville, but he’s untouchable sitting in his own little corner of the world, he’s like no other character I’ve read before, the good looking jock that struggles to connect with his peers. Maybe she’ll guide him into becoming all that he can be.
* Teaser used is the authors *
March 16, 2024
5 stars
*I’ve only read Jay McLean’s ‘In the Company of Darkness’*
When one of my favorite authors releases something new I read it asap! Jay McLean’s words are my favorite. I loved Jace and Harlow so much. This was short and I needed so much more, but I was obsessed with what I read! Sports romances are some of my fave and I loved the basketball aspect. I’m so happy we get more of this couple in a future book.
*I’ve only read Jay McLean’s ‘In the Company of Darkness’*
When one of my favorite authors releases something new I read it asap! Jay McLean’s words are my favorite. I loved Jace and Harlow so much. This was short and I needed so much more, but I was obsessed with what I read! Sports romances are some of my fave and I loved the basketball aspect. I’m so happy we get more of this couple in a future book.
March 7, 2024
Anthology as a whole: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Individual reviews below
Hit Me With Your Best Shot was a fun little sports anthology that included a few of my favorites, and some new to me authors that I’m definitely going to read more of!
I’m such a sucker for sports romances and wished a couple of these stories were full length, and overall enjoyed the majority of the stories included in this anthology!
——
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
Tropes: single dad, pro soccer player x nanny, close proximity, boy obsessed, insta-love, one bed
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
The moment this story lost me was when the MMC goes, “What do you think a girl asks for when she’s wearing a dress like that?” WE DO NOT SLUT SHAME IN THIS HOUSEHOLD, RIOT RIVERA!!!
Then he coerces her into leaving the date she is on (that she admittedly didn’t like, doesn’t matter!) by threatening her job as his nanny 😒
After that I kind just skimmed through because I didn’t care 🤷🏻♀️
(Also this story takes up almost 40% of the fucking book and FOR WHAT?!)
Tempted by Becca Steele
Tropes: college soccer, camboy, size difference, insta-lust, sexual awakening, first times
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved Niccolò in JJ’s book, and so wish that his and Ben’s story was a full length book because I really loved their characters and the instant chemistry between them.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Tropes: college soccer, childhood best friends to lovers, second chance, mutual pining
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Lila and Callum were childhood best friends until an almost first kiss has them growing apart. Reconnecting several years later, the two are still so oblivious until Callum puts it all out there and they both realize how blind they’ve been all these years.
This was sweet and adorable, and their happy ever after was so satisfying.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
Rating: DNF
Is weed addiction a thing?
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
Tropes: pro football, best friends to lovers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Noooo!!! I need more!!!
I knew going into Gabe & Aurora’s story that it was going to be fantastic and it did not disappoint, but I seriously wish this had been full length! There has to more to their story! & I need all it 😭
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
Tropes: brother’s best friend, roommates, spicy time lessons
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hannah has issues coming to completion when having spicy fun times with any of the guys she’s dated. Unfortunately she accidentally reveals this information to her brother’s best friend, who mistakenly heard her conversation with her own bestie. Nolan jokingly suggests helping her out, not realizing who she is, and Hannah, while completely mortified, can’t get the suggestion out of her head.
These two fooled around and fell in love. Their banter was hilarious, and their relationship was oh so steamy.
Individual reviews below
Hit Me With Your Best Shot was a fun little sports anthology that included a few of my favorites, and some new to me authors that I’m definitely going to read more of!
I’m such a sucker for sports romances and wished a couple of these stories were full length, and overall enjoyed the majority of the stories included in this anthology!
——
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
Tropes: single dad, pro soccer player x nanny, close proximity, boy obsessed, insta-love, one bed
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
The moment this story lost me was when the MMC goes, “What do you think a girl asks for when she’s wearing a dress like that?” WE DO NOT SLUT SHAME IN THIS HOUSEHOLD, RIOT RIVERA!!!
Then he coerces her into leaving the date she is on (that she admittedly didn’t like, doesn’t matter!) by threatening her job as his nanny 😒
After that I kind just skimmed through because I didn’t care 🤷🏻♀️
(Also this story takes up almost 40% of the fucking book and FOR WHAT?!)
Tempted by Becca Steele
Tropes: college soccer, camboy, size difference, insta-lust, sexual awakening, first times
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved Niccolò in JJ’s book, and so wish that his and Ben’s story was a full length book because I really loved their characters and the instant chemistry between them.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Tropes: college soccer, childhood best friends to lovers, second chance, mutual pining
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Lila and Callum were childhood best friends until an almost first kiss has them growing apart. Reconnecting several years later, the two are still so oblivious until Callum puts it all out there and they both realize how blind they’ve been all these years.
This was sweet and adorable, and their happy ever after was so satisfying.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
Rating: DNF
Is weed addiction a thing?
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
Tropes: pro football, best friends to lovers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Noooo!!! I need more!!!
I knew going into Gabe & Aurora’s story that it was going to be fantastic and it did not disappoint, but I seriously wish this had been full length! There has to more to their story! & I need all it 😭
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
Tropes: brother’s best friend, roommates, spicy time lessons
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hannah has issues coming to completion when having spicy fun times with any of the guys she’s dated. Unfortunately she accidentally reveals this information to her brother’s best friend, who mistakenly heard her conversation with her own bestie. Nolan jokingly suggests helping her out, not realizing who she is, and Hannah, while completely mortified, can’t get the suggestion out of her head.
These two fooled around and fell in love. Their banter was hilarious, and their relationship was oh so steamy.
February 19, 2024
Tempted by Becca Steele is a low angst, opposites attract romance featuring athletic Ben and extroverted Nico. They are opposites in every way, they have great chemistry and hilarious banter making for such a fun story that I could not get enough of. They have a funny meet-cute that leads to both guys questioning whether or not their connection was in the heat of the moment or something more genuine.
Overall Tempted is a great, highly entertaining low-angst romance that I look forward to seeing these two again in their full-length story.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall Tempted is a great, highly entertaining low-angst romance that I look forward to seeing these two again in their full-length story.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
April 3, 2024
MF/MM Sports Anthology
3 Stars ⭐️
I picked this up for Becca Steele’s mm story, Tempted, but like always it just didn’t work for me because it was too instalove and I became so bored. All of Becca’s books/novellas give me dejavu with how similar they are and the transitions from strangers to more always feel a bit unnatural, yet I continue to pick her books up like the masochist I am. 🤦🏻♀️ The only one of her books I actually enjoyed was Savage Rivals but even that one had things I didn’t like so I think I need to accept this author just isn’t for me and move on but I know I won’t 🤡
Becca’s story may have been a dud but one of the mf romances reeled me in and I am now super excited to read it when the full story comes out. I can’t remember the last time I was remotely interested in mf romance but here we are. I also read some of the others but none hooked me like this one but I’ll review what I did read.
In The Company Of Darkness by Jay McLean (MF-4 Stars-⭐️)
I think this worked for me because of the angst factor and how real both the main characters felt. Jace and Harlow are both seniors in high school with less than ideal circumstances and it’s obvious they will eventually find solace in each other. This snippet had nothing sexual or steamy but set the stage for something beautiful. It was everything I didn’t know I needed and I can’t wait for the full book to release.
Tempted by Becca Steele (MM-2 Stars-⭐️)
Bennett was ridiculous with his “I’m straight but think about men sometimes. Don’t all men wonder what it would be like to suck a dick?” 🙄🤦🏻♀️💀 Bennett played soccer with all the guys from the past LSU books so it was heavy with cameos. Nico is best friends with JJ which reminded me I never read his book and my masochistic ass was like ooooo 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ He’s also roommates with a guy named Dexter who is a porn star. Who wants to bet that we get a porn spin off series? Anyway, Nico won’t take no for an answer and Bennett finally gives in. Yawn 🥱 It was just so generic. I’m falling asleep writing this tbh.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens (MF-DNF)
This was a childhood best friends to strangers trope but they reunited a few years later. This story annoyed me because both characters were just so dumb. They have both been in love with the other since they were younger but instead of talking about it, there was miscommunication galore and the heroine just stopped talking to her bestie. Years later they are reunited at his game and start hanging out but she storms off because she didn’t like something he said. It just didn’t work for me.
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis (MF-3 Stars-⭐️)
This kind of reminded me of The Deal by Elle Kennedy but without the harrowing backstory. This was a brother’s best friend, hockey story. Hannah needs a place to stay so she moves in with her older brother and his best friend Nolan. Nolan overhears her conversation about not being able to get off with a guy and offers to help her out with that but she’ll owe him a favor at some point in the future. He helps her feel comfortable with her body and they eventually fall for each other. I loved what his favor was but wish this had been longer. The sexy times were hot too 🥵 I’ve never read this author before but who knows what I’ll be in the mood to read next.
3 Stars ⭐️
I picked this up for Becca Steele’s mm story, Tempted, but like always it just didn’t work for me because it was too instalove and I became so bored. All of Becca’s books/novellas give me dejavu with how similar they are and the transitions from strangers to more always feel a bit unnatural, yet I continue to pick her books up like the masochist I am. 🤦🏻♀️ The only one of her books I actually enjoyed was Savage Rivals but even that one had things I didn’t like so I think I need to accept this author just isn’t for me and move on but I know I won’t 🤡
Becca’s story may have been a dud but one of the mf romances reeled me in and I am now super excited to read it when the full story comes out. I can’t remember the last time I was remotely interested in mf romance but here we are. I also read some of the others but none hooked me like this one but I’ll review what I did read.
In The Company Of Darkness by Jay McLean (MF-4 Stars-⭐️)
I think this worked for me because of the angst factor and how real both the main characters felt. Jace and Harlow are both seniors in high school with less than ideal circumstances and it’s obvious they will eventually find solace in each other. This snippet had nothing sexual or steamy but set the stage for something beautiful. It was everything I didn’t know I needed and I can’t wait for the full book to release.
Tempted by Becca Steele (MM-2 Stars-⭐️)
Bennett was ridiculous with his “I’m straight but think about men sometimes. Don’t all men wonder what it would be like to suck a dick?” 🙄🤦🏻♀️💀 Bennett played soccer with all the guys from the past LSU books so it was heavy with cameos. Nico is best friends with JJ which reminded me I never read his book and my masochistic ass was like ooooo 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ He’s also roommates with a guy named Dexter who is a porn star. Who wants to bet that we get a porn spin off series? Anyway, Nico won’t take no for an answer and Bennett finally gives in. Yawn 🥱 It was just so generic. I’m falling asleep writing this tbh.
Sidelined by Ki Stephens (MF-DNF)
This was a childhood best friends to strangers trope but they reunited a few years later. This story annoyed me because both characters were just so dumb. They have both been in love with the other since they were younger but instead of talking about it, there was miscommunication galore and the heroine just stopped talking to her bestie. Years later they are reunited at his game and start hanging out but she storms off because she didn’t like something he said. It just didn’t work for me.
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis (MF-3 Stars-⭐️)
This kind of reminded me of The Deal by Elle Kennedy but without the harrowing backstory. This was a brother’s best friend, hockey story. Hannah needs a place to stay so she moves in with her older brother and his best friend Nolan. Nolan overhears her conversation about not being able to get off with a guy and offers to help her out with that but she’ll owe him a favor at some point in the future. He helps her feel comfortable with her body and they eventually fall for each other. I loved what his favor was but wish this had been longer. The sexy times were hot too 🥵 I’ve never read this author before but who knows what I’ll be in the mood to read next.
March 17, 2024
This was a great way to introduce new authors and upcoming series.
Love made me do it : Saffron Kent
Soccer romance ⚽️
Single dad x Curvy nanny
Snowstorm/ one bed cabin
3 ⭐️
🌶️
Tempted : Becca Steele
College “Football” romance ⚽️
MM romance (not my personal jam)
For some reason I had Saltbath characters in my head as Nic and Ben
3⭐️
🌶️
Sidelined : KI Stephens
Colleg Soccer romance ⚽️
Old friends to Strangers to lovers
This was too short!!
4⭐️
🌶️
In the company of darkness : Jay McLean
High school basketball
Grief & trauma bonding
This was the first chapters in the book, coming out in June. Added to TBR.
4⭐️
Onside Recovery : Maggie Rawdon
Football playing single dad 🏈
Serial runaway bride
Friends to lovers
5⭐️
🌶️
I love Maggie Rawdon and her Seattle phantom boys so meeting another was perfect.
Call Me Teach : SJ Sylvis
Brothers best friend
College hockey 🏒
Roommates
Spicy lessons
5⭐️
🌶️
A new hockey series coming 🥳🥳
Love made me do it : Saffron Kent
Soccer romance ⚽️
Single dad x Curvy nanny
Snowstorm/ one bed cabin
3 ⭐️
🌶️
Tempted : Becca Steele
College “Football” romance ⚽️
MM romance (not my personal jam)
For some reason I had Saltbath characters in my head as Nic and Ben
3⭐️
🌶️
Sidelined : KI Stephens
Colleg Soccer romance ⚽️
Old friends to Strangers to lovers
This was too short!!
4⭐️
🌶️
In the company of darkness : Jay McLean
High school basketball
Grief & trauma bonding
This was the first chapters in the book, coming out in June. Added to TBR.
4⭐️
Onside Recovery : Maggie Rawdon
Football playing single dad 🏈
Serial runaway bride
Friends to lovers
5⭐️
🌶️
I love Maggie Rawdon and her Seattle phantom boys so meeting another was perfect.
Call Me Teach : SJ Sylvis
Brothers best friend
College hockey 🏒
Roommates
Spicy lessons
5⭐️
🌶️
A new hockey series coming 🥳🥳
March 12, 2024
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon is a short story set within her Seattle Phantom football series. This is a friends to lovers, single dad sports romance. I really loved Gabe and Aurora’s story, it was short but sweet. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this anthology.
March 15, 2024
An adorable, childhood friends to strangers to lovers short story from Ki Stephens! 🌷
‘Sidelined’ was every bit and more of what I wanted out of it — so much sweetness, spice, and swoon packed into the 7 chapters given! I really adored it.
Callum & Lila were just a pair of cutesy, awkward, oblivious babies, and I couldn’t help but love them. Though it’s a very short read, I liked how it still showed the essential scope of their dynamic and their feelings for one another. And I’m glad they FINALLY opened their eyes and saw that what was right in front of them was worth taking the risk 🫶
Ki has always had this soft, intimate quality to all of her books that translate so well into the stories she tells, and ‘Sidelined’ was no different! I’m always a sucker for any variation of childhood friends to lovers, and this was absolutely worth the read — also the bracelets and the “then” chapters were everything to me, definitely look forward to them when reading this 💗
Thank you so much to Ki Stephens for an ARC of this novella/anthology! 💌
‘Sidelined’ was every bit and more of what I wanted out of it — so much sweetness, spice, and swoon packed into the 7 chapters given! I really adored it.
Callum & Lila were just a pair of cutesy, awkward, oblivious babies, and I couldn’t help but love them. Though it’s a very short read, I liked how it still showed the essential scope of their dynamic and their feelings for one another. And I’m glad they FINALLY opened their eyes and saw that what was right in front of them was worth taking the risk 🫶
Ki has always had this soft, intimate quality to all of her books that translate so well into the stories she tells, and ‘Sidelined’ was no different! I’m always a sucker for any variation of childhood friends to lovers, and this was absolutely worth the read — also the bracelets and the “then” chapters were everything to me, definitely look forward to them when reading this 💗
Thank you so much to Ki Stephens for an ARC of this novella/anthology! 💌
March 7, 2024
Thank you to Ki for providing an ARC of this anthology. I've only had the opportunity to read and review her short story, Sidelined, but as I read the rest of them I will update my review.
Cal and Li were so dang cute. There are really only two authors who have ever made me like friends-to-lovers and that's Ki and Lo Everett. Callum and Lila were friends since they were kids. Each chapter has a quick flashback to their times as either children or teens and although I'm not a huge flashback fan these were SO. DANG. CUTE!
Callum was adorable. The way he would look for Lila at his games guh. And I totally facepalmed when he tried to proposition her when you KNOW this man has been in love with her since they were kids. And Lila - she needed Cal to give her the push to admit her feelings. And even though there was only one spicy scene, hot DAYUM it was a good one. Drool.
Highly recommend! Great addition to Ki's backlist! <3
Cal and Li were so dang cute. There are really only two authors who have ever made me like friends-to-lovers and that's Ki and Lo Everett. Callum and Lila were friends since they were kids. Each chapter has a quick flashback to their times as either children or teens and although I'm not a huge flashback fan these were SO. DANG. CUTE!
Callum was adorable. The way he would look for Lila at his games guh. And I totally facepalmed when he tried to proposition her when you KNOW this man has been in love with her since they were kids. And Lila - she needed Cal to give her the push to admit her feelings. And even though there was only one spicy scene, hot DAYUM it was a good one. Drool.
Highly recommend! Great addition to Ki's backlist! <3
April 11, 2024
3 stars for 'Love Made Me Do it' by SAK.
I got this one for that book alone- and it was nice!! It had some major 'Dreams of 18' vibes in the beginning which I loved.
I wasn't too big on the dialogue and all the cut-offs (it was like 'You beautiful thing you 😭') but it was alright overall.
My favourite thing about this had to be Conrad and his cameo- he's just such an authoritative and put-together character and I love him 😭 He's so mature, which is really highlighted when you compare him to SAK's most recent MMCs. He's so man 💀. And this just made me want to reread his book so badly.
Anyways, all in all, this was fun
I got this one for that book alone- and it was nice!! It had some major 'Dreams of 18' vibes in the beginning which I loved.
I wasn't too big on the dialogue and all the cut-offs (it was like 'You beautiful thing you 😭') but it was alright overall.
My favourite thing about this had to be Conrad and his cameo- he's just such an authoritative and put-together character and I love him 😭 He's so mature, which is really highlighted when you compare him to SAK's most recent MMCs. He's so man 💀. And this just made me want to reread his book so badly.
Anyways, all in all, this was fun
March 18, 2024
Love Made Me do it - Saffron A. Kent
Review -
I definitely thought that Reid would get his own full length book and that this anthology would have a teaser about that , but omg , I did not expect saffron to give us a full story in this amazing anthology! Riot and Meadow are amazing and this short but super sweet and hot story has everything I wanted from them.
Not to mention that saffron also gave us some glimpses and teases of the upcoming novels and I just can't wait for them and also meet meadow and riot again!!
Review -
I definitely thought that Reid would get his own full length book and that this anthology would have a teaser about that , but omg , I did not expect saffron to give us a full story in this amazing anthology! Riot and Meadow are amazing and this short but super sweet and hot story has everything I wanted from them.
Not to mention that saffron also gave us some glimpses and teases of the upcoming novels and I just can't wait for them and also meet meadow and riot again!!
March 18, 2024
Loved Becca Steele’s novella Tempted - need a full version PLEASE! 💚
February 25, 2024
Will update as I read more....
Tempted by Becca Steele.
I love Becca's M/M stories! This one is a very low angst, gay-awakening, coming-out, cute and steamy read.
We have Ben who is on the LSU football team (there's a few books in this series and I highly recommend them!) But yes, Ben is on the team and on a night out the team ends up in gay bar and suddenly there's this short sparkly adorable outspoken dude on his lap asking if he wants more!
It's a quick, fun, flirty, cute and steamy read that I could easily read more of ☺️
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review 4.5stars.
Tempted by Becca Steele.
I love Becca's M/M stories! This one is a very low angst, gay-awakening, coming-out, cute and steamy read.
We have Ben who is on the LSU football team (there's a few books in this series and I highly recommend them!) But yes, Ben is on the team and on a night out the team ends up in gay bar and suddenly there's this short sparkly adorable outspoken dude on his lap asking if he wants more!
It's a quick, fun, flirty, cute and steamy read that I could easily read more of ☺️
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review 4.5stars.
Read
April 28, 2024OVERALL RATING - 3 STARS
ARC kindly received for an honest review.
Love Made Me Do It - Saffron Kent
*DNF*
I tried with this one - just had to DNF. I didn't like the way the MC was talking about certain things and I certainly didn't like the way the guy was acting. Just wasn't feeling it so decided to stop.
Tempted - Becca Steele
*4 Stars*
This was a fun and short read about these two guys - it was sexy and fun and low angst which was great. I liked it.
Sidelined - Ki Stephens
*2.5 Stars*
This wasn't bad. A decent enough second chance friends to lovers. I didn't love it, but it was still ok.
In the Company of Darkness - Jay McLean
*3.5 Stars*
I always struggle with short stories and whilst I love Jays work, this one was still just too short and for me that always feels like it’s missing something. I’d definitely be interested in reading a full length book about these two - I think there’d be a lot to uncover about them both - it seems they both have family issues/trauma to deal with and also seems like there are some cool people around them that they could explore friendships with. Most of this I wondered what I was reading but then Jay brought it all together. And as always her writing is easy to read and captures you. Hopefully we see some more of these two in the future.
Onside Recovery - Maggie Rawdon
*2 Stars*
This was a short friends to lovers story - it felt a bit quick and rushed and I'm not sure I liked Aurora. Gin was fun, Gabe was great, but it all felt just kind of ok.
Call Me Teach - SJ Sylvis
*DNF*
Not for me - the guy was way too cocky and it all felt a bit forced so I just decided not to finish this story.
Follow me on:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
The Storygraph
ARC kindly received for an honest review.
Love Made Me Do It - Saffron Kent
*DNF*
I tried with this one - just had to DNF. I didn't like the way the MC was talking about certain things and I certainly didn't like the way the guy was acting. Just wasn't feeling it so decided to stop.
Tempted - Becca Steele
*4 Stars*
This was a fun and short read about these two guys - it was sexy and fun and low angst which was great. I liked it.
Sidelined - Ki Stephens
*2.5 Stars*
This wasn't bad. A decent enough second chance friends to lovers. I didn't love it, but it was still ok.
In the Company of Darkness - Jay McLean
*3.5 Stars*
I always struggle with short stories and whilst I love Jays work, this one was still just too short and for me that always feels like it’s missing something. I’d definitely be interested in reading a full length book about these two - I think there’d be a lot to uncover about them both - it seems they both have family issues/trauma to deal with and also seems like there are some cool people around them that they could explore friendships with. Most of this I wondered what I was reading but then Jay brought it all together. And as always her writing is easy to read and captures you. Hopefully we see some more of these two in the future.
Onside Recovery - Maggie Rawdon
*2 Stars*
This was a short friends to lovers story - it felt a bit quick and rushed and I'm not sure I liked Aurora. Gin was fun, Gabe was great, but it all felt just kind of ok.
Call Me Teach - SJ Sylvis
*DNF*
Not for me - the guy was way too cocky and it all felt a bit forced so I just decided not to finish this story.
Follow me on:
The Storygraph
March 16, 2024
This is a collection of six new sports romance short stories – some of them standalone, some of them linked in to an author’s existing work.
I’ve only read the stories by Jay McLean and Maggie Rawdon.
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
He’s a hot grumpy soccer-playing single dad who wants to resist temptation. She’s a curvy, hopelessly-in-love nanny who’s desperate to keep things professional. Both think they can get what they want except the weather just turned bad and there’s only one bed…
Tempted by Becca Steele
Getting a chance to play football for London Southwark University’s first team is a dream come true. But I never expected that my promotion would lead me to meeting someone new. Niccolò Rossi is unlike anyone I’ve ever met, and he intrigues me from the moment he unexpectedly lands in my lap. He makes it clear that he wants me. But he’s a man, and I’m not interested in men… am I?
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
When collegiate soccer player, Callum, reconnects with his childhood friend, Lila, he discovers that the only thing that rivals his passion for the game is his feelings for her. As they navigate the transition from strangers to friends to lovers, both must decide if they're willing to risk their lifelong bond for a chance at something more.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
It only took two weeks for Harlow to learn two things about the boy next door.
One: His name was Jace Rivera, and
Two: He was the Golden Boy of Rowville.
But what she couldn’t have known, or even predicted, was how much Jace would change her forever.
Review:
This is not actually a stand-alone novella but is, in fact, the first few chapters of McLean’s upcoming release. I didn’t realise that going in, and talk about a tease!
I was so effortlessly swept up into this story. I loved the characters, I loved the oppressiveness of their lives and the way McLean demonstrated that in so many ways, making you feel so much for them both. I love the fake relationship trope, and the potential for this story and cannot wait to get my hands on the full-length edition when it releases in June.
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
My best friend has never met an altar she likes. So when she runs away from her most recent husband-to-be and straight to me, I’m not entirely surprised. I was hoping this time she might actually make it to the vows while I stood by as her man of honor though, because I need her married so I can move on from all of the what-ifs. But then my friends spill a secret and now she’s looking at me in a way she never has before…
Review:
This is a standalone novella that fits within Rawdon’s Seattle Phantom Football series. A best-friends-to-lovers story featuring a devoted single dad and his best friend, who is a two-time runaway bride.
When Aurora escapes from her latest wedding, she arrives on her best friend, Gabe’s doorstep across the country, knowing it’s the only place she wants to be. She’s there for peace and comfort, not knowing that he has been in love with her for years (though she did crush madly on him in their college days). And with them living in close proximity, the chemistry sizzles, sparks fly, sexy times are had, and these two are finally getting the chance they always wanted.
This is a sweet little story. It’s short but satisfying, and I really enjoyed it.
Call Me Teach by S.L. Sylvis
The deal is simple: my brother’s best friend, who just so happens to be my new roommate, show me the ropes in the bedroom and I owe him a favor when the time comes. No big deal, right? Except that tiny favor is something I never see coming.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by Jay McLean in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve only read the stories by Jay McLean and Maggie Rawdon.
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
He’s a hot grumpy soccer-playing single dad who wants to resist temptation. She’s a curvy, hopelessly-in-love nanny who’s desperate to keep things professional. Both think they can get what they want except the weather just turned bad and there’s only one bed…
Tempted by Becca Steele
Getting a chance to play football for London Southwark University’s first team is a dream come true. But I never expected that my promotion would lead me to meeting someone new. Niccolò Rossi is unlike anyone I’ve ever met, and he intrigues me from the moment he unexpectedly lands in my lap. He makes it clear that he wants me. But he’s a man, and I’m not interested in men… am I?
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
When collegiate soccer player, Callum, reconnects with his childhood friend, Lila, he discovers that the only thing that rivals his passion for the game is his feelings for her. As they navigate the transition from strangers to friends to lovers, both must decide if they're willing to risk their lifelong bond for a chance at something more.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
It only took two weeks for Harlow to learn two things about the boy next door.
One: His name was Jace Rivera, and
Two: He was the Golden Boy of Rowville.
But what she couldn’t have known, or even predicted, was how much Jace would change her forever.
Review:
This is not actually a stand-alone novella but is, in fact, the first few chapters of McLean’s upcoming release. I didn’t realise that going in, and talk about a tease!
I was so effortlessly swept up into this story. I loved the characters, I loved the oppressiveness of their lives and the way McLean demonstrated that in so many ways, making you feel so much for them both. I love the fake relationship trope, and the potential for this story and cannot wait to get my hands on the full-length edition when it releases in June.
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
My best friend has never met an altar she likes. So when she runs away from her most recent husband-to-be and straight to me, I’m not entirely surprised. I was hoping this time she might actually make it to the vows while I stood by as her man of honor though, because I need her married so I can move on from all of the what-ifs. But then my friends spill a secret and now she’s looking at me in a way she never has before…
Review:
This is a standalone novella that fits within Rawdon’s Seattle Phantom Football series. A best-friends-to-lovers story featuring a devoted single dad and his best friend, who is a two-time runaway bride.
When Aurora escapes from her latest wedding, she arrives on her best friend, Gabe’s doorstep across the country, knowing it’s the only place she wants to be. She’s there for peace and comfort, not knowing that he has been in love with her for years (though she did crush madly on him in their college days). And with them living in close proximity, the chemistry sizzles, sparks fly, sexy times are had, and these two are finally getting the chance they always wanted.
This is a sweet little story. It’s short but satisfying, and I really enjoyed it.
Call Me Teach by S.L. Sylvis
The deal is simple: my brother’s best friend, who just so happens to be my new roommate, show me the ropes in the bedroom and I owe him a favor when the time comes. No big deal, right? Except that tiny favor is something I never see coming.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by Jay McLean in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2024
Hit Me With Your Best Shot is A Sports Romance Anthology - authors, incl Becca Steele, SJ Sylvis, Ki Stephens, Jay McLean, Maggie Rawdon, Saffron A. Kent. All stories are MF with the exception of 1 (Tempted by Becca Steele)
I read 4 out of the 6 stories.
1) LOVE MADE ME DO IT BY SAFFRON A. KENT
Hero: Riot Rivera, - 24yrs old, Grumpy Soccer Player, Single Dad to 3yr old Sophia, Puerto Rican heritage.
Heroine: Meadow Harmony Brooks - 19/20yrs, Sophomore in college, Curvy hopelessly in love nanny
Boss/employee, she falls 1st.
My thoughts: I really liked the blurb & teasers for this story. However, I just didn't believe the connection between the MC's. Overall, I thought it was an OK read.
2) TEMPTED BY BECCA STEELE (MM) - Soccer/Bi awakening
MMC1 - Bennett Archer, Soccer player
MMC2 - Niccolò Rossi - twink, gay, FanBoyz Only, student, determined, very affectionate
My thoughts: it's a Cute, sexy read. My 2nd fave read of this Anthology. I'd love to read more about these characters. Nic is like a big ray of sunshine. I loved the vulnerability, rawness shown by these characters. A very good read. Highly recommend reading.
3) SIDELINED BY KI STEPHENS
Callum Galloway - soccer player, college athlete
Lila Tate - Callum's childhood friend
My thoughts: it is a Childhood Friends to Lovers themed story. Type of story, that you really need the background info too, to truly appreciate the story. Because of that there connection wasn't believable.
4) IN THE COMPANY OF DARKNESS by Jay McLean
Jace Rivera - lives next door, Golden Boy, plays basketball. Senior at high school
Harlow - snr at high school, family relocate for fresh start to a small town
Themes: Neighbours to lovers, slow burn, grief, mental health.
My thoughts: - This story has a lot of feels. And was the clear stand out story, to me. Beautifully written. I'd love to read the full length story. Highly recommend reading! 🙂
◾◾◾
5) ONSIDE RECOVERY BY MAGGIE RAWDON - DNF .
The style /flow didn't appeal to me. So it came down to personal preferences.
6) CALL ME TEACH BY SJ SYLVIS - DNF
The style /flow didn't appeal to me. So it came down to personal preferences.
🔹️Based on the 4 stories that I read in full, my overall rating is 3.5/5 stars. 🔹️
As these are short stories (novellas), I found that some of the mc's connections came through whereas others didn't. My views and ratings reflect what stories appealed to me the most, both with writing style, pace, character development.
Even though this is not a 5 star read for me...it could be yours. So please check out this Anthology, especially if you're a big sports romance fan! 🙂
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity, for providing me with this ARC.
I read 4 out of the 6 stories.
1) LOVE MADE ME DO IT BY SAFFRON A. KENT
Hero: Riot Rivera, - 24yrs old, Grumpy Soccer Player, Single Dad to 3yr old Sophia, Puerto Rican heritage.
Heroine: Meadow Harmony Brooks - 19/20yrs, Sophomore in college, Curvy hopelessly in love nanny
Boss/employee, she falls 1st.
My thoughts: I really liked the blurb & teasers for this story. However, I just didn't believe the connection between the MC's. Overall, I thought it was an OK read.
2) TEMPTED BY BECCA STEELE (MM) - Soccer/Bi awakening
MMC1 - Bennett Archer, Soccer player
MMC2 - Niccolò Rossi - twink, gay, FanBoyz Only, student, determined, very affectionate
My thoughts: it's a Cute, sexy read. My 2nd fave read of this Anthology. I'd love to read more about these characters. Nic is like a big ray of sunshine. I loved the vulnerability, rawness shown by these characters. A very good read. Highly recommend reading.
3) SIDELINED BY KI STEPHENS
Callum Galloway - soccer player, college athlete
Lila Tate - Callum's childhood friend
My thoughts: it is a Childhood Friends to Lovers themed story. Type of story, that you really need the background info too, to truly appreciate the story. Because of that there connection wasn't believable.
4) IN THE COMPANY OF DARKNESS by Jay McLean
Jace Rivera - lives next door, Golden Boy, plays basketball. Senior at high school
Harlow - snr at high school, family relocate for fresh start to a small town
Themes: Neighbours to lovers, slow burn, grief, mental health.
My thoughts: - This story has a lot of feels. And was the clear stand out story, to me. Beautifully written. I'd love to read the full length story. Highly recommend reading! 🙂
◾◾◾
5) ONSIDE RECOVERY BY MAGGIE RAWDON - DNF .
The style /flow didn't appeal to me. So it came down to personal preferences.
6) CALL ME TEACH BY SJ SYLVIS - DNF
The style /flow didn't appeal to me. So it came down to personal preferences.
🔹️Based on the 4 stories that I read in full, my overall rating is 3.5/5 stars. 🔹️
As these are short stories (novellas), I found that some of the mc's connections came through whereas others didn't. My views and ratings reflect what stories appealed to me the most, both with writing style, pace, character development.
Even though this is not a 5 star read for me...it could be yours. So please check out this Anthology, especially if you're a big sports romance fan! 🙂
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity, for providing me with this ARC.
Read
March 19, 2024Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
3.5 ⭐️
This was a short and cute little novella and the best way to tease a new hockey series coming out from SJ Sylvis.
Call Me Teach was short and to the point so there could not be that much depth to it but, as always, I really enjoy SJ Sylvis' writing.
“I suck at sex.”
“With a body like yours? Please. Don’t let your asshole ex make you feel like you’re the problem, Hannah. Sometimes people just aren’t meant to be together.”
“That’s not it.”
“It isn’t just with Koa. It’s with every guy.” “Wait… what?”
“It’s me. I’m the problem. And no.. I am not quoting Taylor Swift. It’s me! I can’t orgasm with any guy! It’s like I’m broken or something!”
Hannah temporarily moves in with her brother Hayes and his to teammates, Van and Nolan, after breaking up with her boyfriend. Walking into the apartment, she is on the phone with her friend talking about her inability to O with men and Nolan is right there to hear it all. Despite Hayes telling the whole hockey team that she is off-limits, their first encounter leads to teasing and, finally, to an arrangement for Nolan to help her with her problem.
There is a little bit of sneaking around, slow progress to get Hannah comfortable with Nolan and, in the end, him claiming her in front of the whole school because she is on a date with another guy.
I nibble on my thumb and try to fall asleep, but every time I close my eyes, all I can think about is Nolan.
Nolan’s mouth.
Nolan’s cheeky smile.
Nolan’s quick gaze when I enter the room.
Nolan’s low voice in the dark, coaxing me to break for him.
Damnit.
This isn’t good.
This could've easily been a full length novella and I am kinda sad that it wasn't. At the same time, I am excited to get to Wilder U and get to know the characters better!
I received an ARC of Call Me Teach as a member of the author's ARC team
3.5 ⭐️
This was a short and cute little novella and the best way to tease a new hockey series coming out from SJ Sylvis.
Call Me Teach was short and to the point so there could not be that much depth to it but, as always, I really enjoy SJ Sylvis' writing.
“I suck at sex.”
“With a body like yours? Please. Don’t let your asshole ex make you feel like you’re the problem, Hannah. Sometimes people just aren’t meant to be together.”
“That’s not it.”
“It isn’t just with Koa. It’s with every guy.” “Wait… what?”
“It’s me. I’m the problem. And no.. I am not quoting Taylor Swift. It’s me! I can’t orgasm with any guy! It’s like I’m broken or something!”
Hannah temporarily moves in with her brother Hayes and his to teammates, Van and Nolan, after breaking up with her boyfriend. Walking into the apartment, she is on the phone with her friend talking about her inability to O with men and Nolan is right there to hear it all. Despite Hayes telling the whole hockey team that she is off-limits, their first encounter leads to teasing and, finally, to an arrangement for Nolan to help her with her problem.
There is a little bit of sneaking around, slow progress to get Hannah comfortable with Nolan and, in the end, him claiming her in front of the whole school because she is on a date with another guy.
I nibble on my thumb and try to fall asleep, but every time I close my eyes, all I can think about is Nolan.
Nolan’s mouth.
Nolan’s cheeky smile.
Nolan’s quick gaze when I enter the room.
Nolan’s low voice in the dark, coaxing me to break for him.
Damnit.
This isn’t good.
This could've easily been a full length novella and I am kinda sad that it wasn't. At the same time, I am excited to get to Wilder U and get to know the characters better!
I received an ARC of Call Me Teach as a member of the author's ARC team
March 21, 2024
“The boy is an enigma—and I haven’t quite decided if I care enough to want to solve the mystery that surrounds him.”
Two years. It’s been a little over two years since I last dove into a Jay McLean book and let me tell you: She’s back!!! In the Company of Darkness debuts its first few chapters in the Hit Me With Your Best Shot anthology, and oh what an emotional hit it is! This collection by six bestselling authors features snippets of romances starring male sports players.
In the Company of Darkness stars Jace and Harlow who are thrust together by fate and a shared bond. From the moment I sank myself into the pages, I was transported to small town, Texas, as I became a part of this romance. I felt these characters—their pain yet promise—as though they were real. I felt every word of this story … everything!!!
I only got a taste of In the Company of Darkness but oh did this tragically beautifully book tear at my heart. It’s an emotional hit that left me longing for more. I NEED MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “hit my heart” stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/4a2Q8xp
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Two years. It’s been a little over two years since I last dove into a Jay McLean book and let me tell you: She’s back!!! In the Company of Darkness debuts its first few chapters in the Hit Me With Your Best Shot anthology, and oh what an emotional hit it is! This collection by six bestselling authors features snippets of romances starring male sports players.
In the Company of Darkness stars Jace and Harlow who are thrust together by fate and a shared bond. From the moment I sank myself into the pages, I was transported to small town, Texas, as I became a part of this romance. I felt these characters—their pain yet promise—as though they were real. I felt every word of this story … everything!!!
I only got a taste of In the Company of Darkness but oh did this tragically beautifully book tear at my heart. It’s an emotional hit that left me longing for more. I NEED MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “hit my heart” stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/4a2Q8xp
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
March 13, 2024
— ♡ 4.5 stars
arc review for sidelined by ki stephens!
sidelined is a childhood friends to strangers to lovers trope and it was so well executed! in the small section ki stephens had she made it work perfectly and truly delivered. i love callum and lila’s relationship so much. there was tension, passion, longing and a little bit of angst. she made the characters have a great dynamic and we were able to understand why the characters had they’re falling out with each other and how they were able to grow from that. there was also room for a detailed and hot spicy scene that didn’t feel rushed or overdone whatsoever. everytime ki stephens writes i’m expecting a great story and this was no exception. i loved this and i can’t wait to come back and review the other authors stories!
𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 : childhood friends to strangers to lovers, college romance, soccer player mmc, small novella.
thank you ki stephens and her team for this arc!
arc review for sidelined by ki stephens!
sidelined is a childhood friends to strangers to lovers trope and it was so well executed! in the small section ki stephens had she made it work perfectly and truly delivered. i love callum and lila’s relationship so much. there was tension, passion, longing and a little bit of angst. she made the characters have a great dynamic and we were able to understand why the characters had they’re falling out with each other and how they were able to grow from that. there was also room for a detailed and hot spicy scene that didn’t feel rushed or overdone whatsoever. everytime ki stephens writes i’m expecting a great story and this was no exception. i loved this and i can’t wait to come back and review the other authors stories!
𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 : childhood friends to strangers to lovers, college romance, soccer player mmc, small novella.
thank you ki stephens and her team for this arc!
March 19, 2024
Only read sak story , it was short sweet and weird like all sak books 📚 😀
March 14, 2024
Overall: 4⭐️ | 2.5🌶️
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
3.5⭐️ | 2 🌶️
This little Novella was fun to read. This follows Meadow & Riot. Meadow is Riot’s nanny for his 3-year-old daughter and Meadow is also in love with Riot since they first moment she laid eyes on him in her interview. She is studying to become a child psychologist which is why this job is perfect for her. When her feelings start to blur the line of being professional, will Riot push her away or gives in due to feeling the same way? This was such a cute / spicy novella and my first read by Saffron A. Kent and can’t wait to read more by her.
Tempted by Becca Steele
3 ⭐️| 3 🌶️
My first MM book and honestly wasn’t disappointed. Not my favorite. But still enjoyed. Might dip my feet in more MM books in the future. This follows Bennett & Niccolo. Bennett is new to the university football team and one night out with the guys, he was taken to a gay bar where he meets Niccolo. After Niccolo flirting with Bennett that night. He wants more... but also, unsure how to go about it since he’s never been with a guy physically before. He always thought about it but never pushed himself to. Once that line was crossed, these two were amazing together.
Sidelined by KI Stephens
4⭐️ | 2 🌶️
GUYS.. I love me a good second chance romance and childhood bestfriends to lovers? I WAS HOOKED from the start. This follows Callum & Lilah who have been best friends their whole lives. Until freshman year of college when they almost shared a kiss, Lilah pushes him away. She shows up to his football game and they started to catch up again on their friendship. Will they finally give in to the feelings they both had forever? I have read KI Stephens before, and I love her books. Makes you want more.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
4⭐️| 0 🌶️
This one is a little tease before the full book that’s coming June 21st! I will be adding that to my endless TBR. Fake Dating? Like you already have me sold on jus that. This follows Harlow & Jace. After Harlow loses her brother, her family moves to a town five hours away for a fresh start. The next-door neighbor playing basketball in their backyard – his old house. There is a bet going around about Harlow and when Jace tells her about it. She propositions him to help her get the money from this bet. But when these two starts to fake date. What will happen when they both realize its not fake.
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
5⭐️| 3 🌶️
OKAY. I ATE THIS UP. BUT ARE YOU SURPRISED?! ITS MAGGIE MF RAWDON. If you follow me, you know how much I love her writing. This follows Aurora & Gabe. Aurora is supposed to get on a flight to her wedding. But instead, she is getting on a flight to her best friend Gabe and his daughter, Gin. Gabe has been in love with Aurora for a while now & they are Aurora safe place and where she feels at home. Gabe has always sat on the sidelines when it came to his feelings for her & her love life. But what will happen when they both have the opportunity to change that. Will they take it or leave their friendship as is. Maggie the way I just love your writing.
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
5⭐️ | 3 🌶️
I recently read a book by SJ Sylvis, and I loved it so much I want to read her backlist. So, when I heard she was on this anthology, I was excited. This follows Nolan & Hannah. When Hannah moves in with her brother, she never expects her brother’s best friend and teammate to be the one to give her lessons… as in spicy lessons... Nolan overhears a conversation that she’s never gotten there, he takes it upon himself to show her that she can in fact get there. But what if he starts to develop feelings for her? Will she feel the same? I JUST LOVE ME A SPICY LITTLE NOVELLA. Makes it such an easy read. This was soo good.
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
3.5⭐️ | 2 🌶️
This little Novella was fun to read. This follows Meadow & Riot. Meadow is Riot’s nanny for his 3-year-old daughter and Meadow is also in love with Riot since they first moment she laid eyes on him in her interview. She is studying to become a child psychologist which is why this job is perfect for her. When her feelings start to blur the line of being professional, will Riot push her away or gives in due to feeling the same way? This was such a cute / spicy novella and my first read by Saffron A. Kent and can’t wait to read more by her.
Tempted by Becca Steele
3 ⭐️| 3 🌶️
My first MM book and honestly wasn’t disappointed. Not my favorite. But still enjoyed. Might dip my feet in more MM books in the future. This follows Bennett & Niccolo. Bennett is new to the university football team and one night out with the guys, he was taken to a gay bar where he meets Niccolo. After Niccolo flirting with Bennett that night. He wants more... but also, unsure how to go about it since he’s never been with a guy physically before. He always thought about it but never pushed himself to. Once that line was crossed, these two were amazing together.
Sidelined by KI Stephens
4⭐️ | 2 🌶️
GUYS.. I love me a good second chance romance and childhood bestfriends to lovers? I WAS HOOKED from the start. This follows Callum & Lilah who have been best friends their whole lives. Until freshman year of college when they almost shared a kiss, Lilah pushes him away. She shows up to his football game and they started to catch up again on their friendship. Will they finally give in to the feelings they both had forever? I have read KI Stephens before, and I love her books. Makes you want more.
In the Company of Darkness by Jay McLean
4⭐️| 0 🌶️
This one is a little tease before the full book that’s coming June 21st! I will be adding that to my endless TBR. Fake Dating? Like you already have me sold on jus that. This follows Harlow & Jace. After Harlow loses her brother, her family moves to a town five hours away for a fresh start. The next-door neighbor playing basketball in their backyard – his old house. There is a bet going around about Harlow and when Jace tells her about it. She propositions him to help her get the money from this bet. But when these two starts to fake date. What will happen when they both realize its not fake.
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
5⭐️| 3 🌶️
OKAY. I ATE THIS UP. BUT ARE YOU SURPRISED?! ITS MAGGIE MF RAWDON. If you follow me, you know how much I love her writing. This follows Aurora & Gabe. Aurora is supposed to get on a flight to her wedding. But instead, she is getting on a flight to her best friend Gabe and his daughter, Gin. Gabe has been in love with Aurora for a while now & they are Aurora safe place and where she feels at home. Gabe has always sat on the sidelines when it came to his feelings for her & her love life. But what will happen when they both have the opportunity to change that. Will they take it or leave their friendship as is. Maggie the way I just love your writing.
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
5⭐️ | 3 🌶️
I recently read a book by SJ Sylvis, and I loved it so much I want to read her backlist. So, when I heard she was on this anthology, I was excited. This follows Nolan & Hannah. When Hannah moves in with her brother, she never expects her brother’s best friend and teammate to be the one to give her lessons… as in spicy lessons... Nolan overhears a conversation that she’s never gotten there, he takes it upon himself to show her that she can in fact get there. But what if he starts to develop feelings for her? Will she feel the same? I JUST LOVE ME A SPICY LITTLE NOVELLA. Makes it such an easy read. This was soo good.
March 12, 2024
Overall: 4.3 ⭐️ | 2.25 🌶️
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron Kent
3.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
Meadow is Riot’s nanny…and she’s also in love with him. She is studying to become a child psychologist which is why the job is so perfect for her. Plus, being able to look at her hot, soccer playing boss doesn’t hurt either. When her feelings start to blur the line of being professional, will Riot reciprocate or will he push her away? And what if he already feels the same?
This little novella was fun to read and Riot was for sure the definition of an alpha male. The banter between the two of them was great and the spice was spicin’.
______________
Tempted by Becca Steele
4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Bennett is brand new to the university football team and on a night out with the rest of the guys, he’s taken to a gay bar where he meets Niccoló. After Nic flirts with Ben, Ben’s left wanting more…but he’s unsure how to go about it since he’s never been with another man physically, but he’s always wanted to. Once Nic and Ben finally cross that line, the two realize that they’re perfect for each other and more than just a fleeting moment.
My first MM book and it did not disappoint! I think this was the perfect into the MM world and now I need to read more!
_____________
Sidelined by KI Stephens
4.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
Callum and Lilah have been best friends their whole lives. Until freshman year of college when they almost kiss and Lilah pulls away from them. After rekindling their friendship, the two of them get reacquainted with one another and finally give in to the feelings they’ve both had forever.
I love a good second chance romance and this was just that! Childhood best friends turned lovers? Sign me up!! I can’t wait to read more from KI Stephens!
_________________
In the company of darkness by Jay McLean
4 ⭐️ | 0 🌶️
After losing Harlow’s brother, her family up and moves to a town five hours away for a fresh start. That’s until they arrive to her next door neighbor playing basketball in their backyard - his old house - only to give them all a reminder of what they’ve lost. When Jace tells Harlow about a bet that’s been going on about her, she propositions him to help her get the money from the bet with his help. But when the two begin their fake dating venture, they quickly realize it’s anything but fake.
Okay so this was the perfect little prelude for the full book that’s coming June 21st! I’ll definitely have to check it out because I love a good fake dating trope and this was leading up to being so good!!
______________
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Instead of getting on a flight to her wedding, Aurora gets on a flight to her best friend Gabe and his daughter, Gin. They’ve always been her safe space and where she feels most at home. Gabe has been in love with Aurora for a while now, but has always sat on the sidelines to her romantic life. But now they both have the opportunity in front of them…the question is if they’ll take it or not.
Okay I loved this book and if I didn’t already need to read this series before I definitely need to now!! I need more Gabe and Aurora because they were so hot!!
_______________
Call me Teach by SJ Sylvis
5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
When Hannah moves in with her brother, she never expects her brother’s best friend and teammate to be the one to give her spicy lessons. After overhearing a conversation that she’s never gotten there, he takes it upon himself to be the person that does. But what happens when he starts to develop feelings for her and will she feel the same?
Okay I LOVED this spicy little novella. I need more of Nolan and Hannah!! SJ Sylvis just knows how to write fictional men. This was so good!
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron Kent
3.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
Meadow is Riot’s nanny…and she’s also in love with him. She is studying to become a child psychologist which is why the job is so perfect for her. Plus, being able to look at her hot, soccer playing boss doesn’t hurt either. When her feelings start to blur the line of being professional, will Riot reciprocate or will he push her away? And what if he already feels the same?
This little novella was fun to read and Riot was for sure the definition of an alpha male. The banter between the two of them was great and the spice was spicin’.
______________
Tempted by Becca Steele
4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Bennett is brand new to the university football team and on a night out with the rest of the guys, he’s taken to a gay bar where he meets Niccoló. After Nic flirts with Ben, Ben’s left wanting more…but he’s unsure how to go about it since he’s never been with another man physically, but he’s always wanted to. Once Nic and Ben finally cross that line, the two realize that they’re perfect for each other and more than just a fleeting moment.
My first MM book and it did not disappoint! I think this was the perfect into the MM world and now I need to read more!
_____________
Sidelined by KI Stephens
4.5 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
Callum and Lilah have been best friends their whole lives. Until freshman year of college when they almost kiss and Lilah pulls away from them. After rekindling their friendship, the two of them get reacquainted with one another and finally give in to the feelings they’ve both had forever.
I love a good second chance romance and this was just that! Childhood best friends turned lovers? Sign me up!! I can’t wait to read more from KI Stephens!
_________________
In the company of darkness by Jay McLean
4 ⭐️ | 0 🌶️
After losing Harlow’s brother, her family up and moves to a town five hours away for a fresh start. That’s until they arrive to her next door neighbor playing basketball in their backyard - his old house - only to give them all a reminder of what they’ve lost. When Jace tells Harlow about a bet that’s been going on about her, she propositions him to help her get the money from the bet with his help. But when the two begin their fake dating venture, they quickly realize it’s anything but fake.
Okay so this was the perfect little prelude for the full book that’s coming June 21st! I’ll definitely have to check it out because I love a good fake dating trope and this was leading up to being so good!!
______________
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Instead of getting on a flight to her wedding, Aurora gets on a flight to her best friend Gabe and his daughter, Gin. They’ve always been her safe space and where she feels most at home. Gabe has been in love with Aurora for a while now, but has always sat on the sidelines to her romantic life. But now they both have the opportunity in front of them…the question is if they’ll take it or not.
Okay I loved this book and if I didn’t already need to read this series before I definitely need to now!! I need more Gabe and Aurora because they were so hot!!
_______________
Call me Teach by SJ Sylvis
5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
When Hannah moves in with her brother, she never expects her brother’s best friend and teammate to be the one to give her spicy lessons. After overhearing a conversation that she’s never gotten there, he takes it upon himself to be the person that does. But what happens when he starts to develop feelings for her and will she feel the same?
Okay I LOVED this spicy little novella. I need more of Nolan and Hannah!! SJ Sylvis just knows how to write fictional men. This was so good!
March 20, 2024
Hit Me With Your Best Shot is easily one of the best anthologies I have read. It has a star studded line up but that's not what makes it a must read one. The real reason is that each and every story here is absolutely amazing. Emotional. Swoony. Spicy. All kinds of tropes and dimensions in sports romance. Easiest anthology recommendation I have ever made.
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent can be your sole reason to one click this anthology. She just delivered a sexy slow burn forbidden perfection here. Meadow and Riot will set your heart and kindle on fire. Saffron has a very distinct poetic style that makes my heart break and ache and even this short story was no exception. Riot Rivera is epic book boyfriend. Alpha, brooding, extremely possessive, extraordinary dirty talker. Meadow is so sweet and soft. This single dad- Nanny Soccer romance captures every delicious angsty feel that I want from Saffron's books.
My next favorite was another Soccer romance! This time we have a MM College romance called Tempted from Becca Steele. I am so lucky that I get to read another story from her LSU series so soon. Bennett has been bi curious but it's not until Nicolo landed in his lap, literally, that he started feeling obsessed with a guy. Nicolo is so full of sunshine, sass and over the top attitude. He can be a bit too much and that's his fear but Bennett is his perfect match. It was sweet and hot and full of feels. And it will immediately make you want to read the other LSU books!
I have been wanting to read SJ Sylvis for a while now and Call Me Teach has just expedited my decision. It's a brother's best friend, roommates to lovers hockey romance. Noah is just so unapologetically dirty and so intense! I thoroughly enjoyed how sweet Hannah brought down the player on his knees. From beings her secret intimacy teacher to her obsessed boyfriend was a sizzling hot and emotional journey.
I just got acquainted with Maggie Rawdon's football romance and absolutely loved Onside Recovery. NFL star single dad Gage has been in love with his best friend Aurora for years now and this time, when the runaway bride appears at his doorstep, things go all chaotic. It was all hot and heartaching.
This anthology also had the first few chapters of Jay McLean' s upcoming angsty new adult basketball romance In The Company Of Darkness. I can feel it will be a heartbreaker. I found a new to me author Ki Stephens. Sidelined was a heartwarming best friends to lovers romance.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent can be your sole reason to one click this anthology. She just delivered a sexy slow burn forbidden perfection here. Meadow and Riot will set your heart and kindle on fire. Saffron has a very distinct poetic style that makes my heart break and ache and even this short story was no exception. Riot Rivera is epic book boyfriend. Alpha, brooding, extremely possessive, extraordinary dirty talker. Meadow is so sweet and soft. This single dad- Nanny Soccer romance captures every delicious angsty feel that I want from Saffron's books.
My next favorite was another Soccer romance! This time we have a MM College romance called Tempted from Becca Steele. I am so lucky that I get to read another story from her LSU series so soon. Bennett has been bi curious but it's not until Nicolo landed in his lap, literally, that he started feeling obsessed with a guy. Nicolo is so full of sunshine, sass and over the top attitude. He can be a bit too much and that's his fear but Bennett is his perfect match. It was sweet and hot and full of feels. And it will immediately make you want to read the other LSU books!
I have been wanting to read SJ Sylvis for a while now and Call Me Teach has just expedited my decision. It's a brother's best friend, roommates to lovers hockey romance. Noah is just so unapologetically dirty and so intense! I thoroughly enjoyed how sweet Hannah brought down the player on his knees. From beings her secret intimacy teacher to her obsessed boyfriend was a sizzling hot and emotional journey.
I just got acquainted with Maggie Rawdon's football romance and absolutely loved Onside Recovery. NFL star single dad Gage has been in love with his best friend Aurora for years now and this time, when the runaway bride appears at his doorstep, things go all chaotic. It was all hot and heartaching.
This anthology also had the first few chapters of Jay McLean' s upcoming angsty new adult basketball romance In The Company Of Darkness. I can feel it will be a heartbreaker. I found a new to me author Ki Stephens. Sidelined was a heartwarming best friends to lovers romance.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
March 7, 2024
ARC review for Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis, Sidelined by Ki Stephens and Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent (I will update the rest as I go)
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
tropes : hockey romance, forced proximity, brother’s bestfriend/teammate, possessive mmc
Oh my gosh are you JOKING ??? I was giggling the entire time reading this, I need more more more. SJ Sylvis is my all time favorite author and you know what? she NEVER disappoints. This novella follows Hannah as she moves into her brother’s apartment after breaking up with her boyfriend. She’s been dealing with an issue for quite some time now and one of her new roommates, aka her brother’s teammate, offers his help after eavesdropping on her phone call (of course). I can’t say a lot without spoiling but their dynamic and banter is everything!!! It was such a fun read, college hockey romance you will ALWAYS be loved by me (especially if it’s written by SJ). I need more of Nolan and Hannah asap!!! Also the announcement in the end, I screamed 🤭 I can’t wait for what’s next
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Tropes: soccer player x architecture student, childhood bestfriends to strangers to friends to lovers, jealousy/protective mmc, flashback chapters
I couldn’t put this one down I was hooked. Callum and Lila were so cute !! I loved the fact that flashback chapters were included, it just made their story much richer. And of course seeing them reconnect and find their spark again was so beautiful!!! All I have to say is, I literally ran to get all of Ki Stephens’ books right after I finished and I’m NOT joking 🤭
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
Tropes: single grumpy dad (famous soccer player) x nanny, forced proximity, obsessed fmc and equally obsessed mmc
I wasn’t the biggest Riot fan at first, he was annoying me during some parts and this is coming from a grumpy character advocate. But halfway through I loved him, who’s surprised? Not me. Lets move on to Meadow, oh how I loved her, she’s literal perfection. ALSO the cameos in this one are chefs kiss 🤭🤌
Call Me Teach by SJ Sylvis
tropes : hockey romance, forced proximity, brother’s bestfriend/teammate, possessive mmc
Oh my gosh are you JOKING ??? I was giggling the entire time reading this, I need more more more. SJ Sylvis is my all time favorite author and you know what? she NEVER disappoints. This novella follows Hannah as she moves into her brother’s apartment after breaking up with her boyfriend. She’s been dealing with an issue for quite some time now and one of her new roommates, aka her brother’s teammate, offers his help after eavesdropping on her phone call (of course). I can’t say a lot without spoiling but their dynamic and banter is everything!!! It was such a fun read, college hockey romance you will ALWAYS be loved by me (especially if it’s written by SJ). I need more of Nolan and Hannah asap!!! Also the announcement in the end, I screamed 🤭 I can’t wait for what’s next
Sidelined by Ki Stephens
Tropes: soccer player x architecture student, childhood bestfriends to strangers to friends to lovers, jealousy/protective mmc, flashback chapters
I couldn’t put this one down I was hooked. Callum and Lila were so cute !! I loved the fact that flashback chapters were included, it just made their story much richer. And of course seeing them reconnect and find their spark again was so beautiful!!! All I have to say is, I literally ran to get all of Ki Stephens’ books right after I finished and I’m NOT joking 🤭
Love Made Me Do It by Saffron A. Kent
Tropes: single grumpy dad (famous soccer player) x nanny, forced proximity, obsessed fmc and equally obsessed mmc
I wasn’t the biggest Riot fan at first, he was annoying me during some parts and this is coming from a grumpy character advocate. But halfway through I loved him, who’s surprised? Not me. Lets move on to Meadow, oh how I loved her, she’s literal perfection. ALSO the cameos in this one are chefs kiss 🤭🤌
March 7, 2024
ARC review for Sidelined by Ki Stephens
"It's an overwhelming sense of peace. It's finding my way back home after an eternity of aimless wandering, and I never want to be lost again."
My heart. I think it's a very hard thing to successfully do then and now moments in a short story but Ki did it seamlessly. The moments in the past added the depth that is usually needed in a short story and completely rounded this one out.
The yearning and the mutual pining was everythingggg. I just loved seeing the way Callum and Lila had always loved each other and although I hated the time they'd wasted apart, I really think it just made them appreciate each other that much more. The love confessions were one of my favorite parts. So glad these two cuties figured it out.
I'd die for a full length novel of them tbh but I'm happy with what we got. I definitely recommend reading this one on release day! I'm looking forward to eventually reading the rest of them stories in this anthology.
"It's an overwhelming sense of peace. It's finding my way back home after an eternity of aimless wandering, and I never want to be lost again."
My heart. I think it's a very hard thing to successfully do then and now moments in a short story but Ki did it seamlessly. The moments in the past added the depth that is usually needed in a short story and completely rounded this one out.
The yearning and the mutual pining was everythingggg. I just loved seeing the way Callum and Lila had always loved each other and although I hated the time they'd wasted apart, I really think it just made them appreciate each other that much more. The love confessions were one of my favorite parts. So glad these two cuties figured it out.
I'd die for a full length novel of them tbh but I'm happy with what we got. I definitely recommend reading this one on release day! I'm looking forward to eventually reading the rest of them stories in this anthology.
March 15, 2024
[arc review] this review is only for 'sidelined', NOT the entire anthology!!
one thing about me is i will eat up a childhood friends to strangers to lovers!! lila and callum were childhood best friends, literally had a treehouse and friendship bracelets to prove it. but when they were older, lila and callum had drifted apart. they didn’t hang out or even talk anymore. in the flashbacks, we get to see how close the two were, it was adorable. but in college, not so much. lila still occasionally goes to callum’s games to support and the one time she got caught, which sparked them to reconnect. they have been going to the same college for years but are now finally rekindling their friendship. it’s awkward and still at first. and it takes some getting used to each other again and then… they really get used to each other if you feel what i’m getting at here. they have rekindled more than a friendship and are making up for all the lost time where they could have been spending time together and all. it always makes me happy to see that the childhood friends end up as lovers and i love that lila and callum found their way back to each other!
tropes:
» college soccer romance
» childhood friends to strangers to lovers
» mini flashbacks
» oblivious to love
one thing about me is i will eat up a childhood friends to strangers to lovers!! lila and callum were childhood best friends, literally had a treehouse and friendship bracelets to prove it. but when they were older, lila and callum had drifted apart. they didn’t hang out or even talk anymore. in the flashbacks, we get to see how close the two were, it was adorable. but in college, not so much. lila still occasionally goes to callum’s games to support and the one time she got caught, which sparked them to reconnect. they have been going to the same college for years but are now finally rekindling their friendship. it’s awkward and still at first. and it takes some getting used to each other again and then… they really get used to each other if you feel what i’m getting at here. they have rekindled more than a friendship and are making up for all the lost time where they could have been spending time together and all. it always makes me happy to see that the childhood friends end up as lovers and i love that lila and callum found their way back to each other!
tropes:
» college soccer romance
» childhood friends to strangers to lovers
» mini flashbacks
» oblivious to love
March 8, 2024
3.5 / 5 (I only read Sidelined by Ki Stephens as an ARC) ⚽️💌📓💻
This was a short and sweet novella, it was so good to be back in the world of Ki's writing. Although it was short I do feel like it was executed so well in that she made the most of the seven chapters. We had flashbacks to them in the past and then them reconnecting now and rekindling. Whilst it was good to see a well rounded story, I could have read it as a full book and wish it was because it felt rushed. But I love Ki's writing and characters so seeing Lila and Callum for 300 pages would have been a real treat. So I guess I felt it was rushed but based on the fact it's a short story it was one of higher end ones I've read.
This was a short and sweet novella, it was so good to be back in the world of Ki's writing. Although it was short I do feel like it was executed so well in that she made the most of the seven chapters. We had flashbacks to them in the past and then them reconnecting now and rekindling. Whilst it was good to see a well rounded story, I could have read it as a full book and wish it was because it felt rushed. But I love Ki's writing and characters so seeing Lila and Callum for 300 pages would have been a real treat. So I guess I felt it was rushed but based on the fact it's a short story it was one of higher end ones I've read.
March 23, 2024
My rating is for SAK’s novella. It was a good solid effort from her. It lacked depth and real angst but that’s kinda expected in a short book. My main hang up with it was the focus on “body positivity” and how she described the h’s bigger body. I actually stopped to check the cover to see if the proceeds for the anthology were going toward some kind of Body Positivity initiative or something. It was that heavy handed and awkward. 🥴 Describing the h’s body parts as “doughy” was not hot and had me cringing. (It’s not about the the curvy h, it’s about HOW it was handled) Otherwise, I like the H and h and their story was cute.
I DNF’d all the other submissions. Not my jam.
I DNF’d all the other submissions. Not my jam.
March 15, 2024
Onside Recovery by Maggie Rawdon was sooooo good!! Gabe and Aurora have been best friends for years, hes been in love with her forever and they finally get their chance! This is part of her phantom football series and I love them all!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 414 reviews