Spotlight July 29th

 

Release Date August 25 2026 

SHE'S THE MAN meets HOCKEY ROMANCE

Taylor Quinn lands the biggest opportunity of her hockey career: an invitation to NHL training camp as a goalie for the Philly Flames. There’s just one problem—they think she’s a guy. But she’s not about to let that stop her. All she has to do is prove she belongs before anyone discovers the truth.

Dominating on the ice is only half the battle. Dodging changing rooms, surviving close calls in shared hotel suites, and maintaining the ruse is treacherous enough—until Alec Hayes, the team captain she's been at odds with since day one, discovers the truth. She quickly discovers pretending she's one of the guys is hard. But pretending she doesn't feel anything for the captain? Even harder.

Alec Hayes has one goal: lead the Flames to a Stanley Cup after last season ended with him watching from the sidelines. Taylor may be the best goalie he's seen in years, but she's also a wild card—one that could risk everything he's built with the team he considers family. Somewhere between their on-ice rivalry and him taking down anyone who puts hands on his goalie, the lines begin to blur. Now Alec finds himself risking far more than the season for the one girl who could never be just a teammate.

Hands Off His Goalie is a rivals-to-lovers sports romance featuring forced proximity, secret identity, found family, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Breaking New Ice by Evie Keaton

 

Published May 5th 2026

Read June 7th-8th 2026

Book Review: Breaking New Ice by Evie Keaton

⭐ Final Rating: 4 Stars (7.4/10) 

Evie Keaton’s Breaking New Ice delivers a compelling, character-driven sports romance that blends emotional tension with undeniable chemistry. With a classic opposites-attract dynamic and a fresh twist on the agent-player relationship, this novel proves to be both engaging and entertaining from start to finish. 

Characters – 8/10

At the heart of the story are Cassie Wells and Cole Taylor—two characters who couldn’t be more different, yet fit together in a way that feels natural and rewarding. 

Cassie Wells is a determined junior agent, eager to prove herself and secure a long-awaited promotion. Her big opportunity comes in the form of Cole Taylor, a talented but volatile goaltender for the New England Nor’easters. Cassie is bright, optimistic, and persistent—a true “sunshine” personality who refuses to back down from a challenge. 

Cole, on the other hand, is as cold and guarded as his position on the ice suggests. Struggling with unresolved family issues, he keeps everyone at arm’s length, often lashing out rather than opening up. His emotional walls create tension not only within his team but also in his growing relationship with Cassie. 

Together, they embody the classic “sunshine vs. ice” trope, and it works exceptionally well. Their chemistry is undeniable, and watching their relationship evolve is one of the most satisfying aspects of the book. You can’t help but root for them as they navigate both personal and professional challenges. 

Atmosphere – 7/10

Keaton does a solid job of building the world around Cassie and Cole, particularly within the high-pressure environment of professional hockey. The inclusion of the Nor’easters team adds depth and authenticity, making the setting feel immersive. 

Readers are drawn into both the locker room dynamics and the behind-the-scenes world of sports management. The atmosphere enhances the emotional stakes, allowing you to feel like an active participant in both the romance and the team’s journey. 

Writing Style – 7/10

The writing is vivid and descriptive, making it easy to picture each scene exactly as the author intends. Keaton’s style leans heavily into detail, which may take a moment to adjust to, but ultimately becomes an asset as the story progresses. 

The romantic and adult scenes are handled with care—they are well-written, purposeful, and never feel excessive or distracting. Instead, they complement the narrative and deepen the connection between the characters. 

Plot – 7/10

The premise centers on Cassie being assigned to essentially “babysit” Cole as he spirals due to personal struggles. While the setup may seem straightforward, the execution is elevated by strong character development. 

Rather than relying on complex plot twists, the story focuses on emotional growth and relationship building. The agent-player romance angle feels fresh and adds an extra layer of intrigue, setting it apart from more traditional sports romances. 

Intrigue – 8/10

One of the book’s strongest elements is its ability to keep readers invested. The pacing works well, and the emotional tension between Cassie and Cole keeps the pages turning. 

It’s easy to become fully invested in their journey—you find yourself eager to see how their relationship unfolds and how Cole confronts his inner struggles. The story flows smoothly, making it a quick and engaging read. 

Logic & Structure – 7/10

The narrative follows a clear and consistent structure, adhering to its own internal logic. Each development builds naturally on what came before, creating a cohesive reading experience. 

While the ending may feel somewhat predictable, it remains satisfying and true to the story’s tone. Sometimes, knowing where a story is headed doesn’t take away from the enjoyment—it enhances the anticipation. 

Enjoyment – 8/10

Breaking New Ice is undeniably enjoyable—a true guilty pleasure in the best sense. It’s the kind of book that pulls you in quickly and keeps you hooked until the very last page. 

The combination of romance, emotional depth, and sports drama makes it an easy recommendation for fans of the genre. It’s a story you’ll likely find yourself rushing through, eager to see how everything resolves. 

Final Thoughts

As a first experience with Evie Keaton’s work, Breaking New Ice leaves a strong impression. The author’s descriptive style and focus on character-driven storytelling make this novel stand out, even within a familiar genre. 

The balance between romance and emotional conflict is well executed, and the adult themes are handled thoughtfully without overshadowing the narrative. While it appears to be a standalone novel, it certainly sparks interest in what Keaton might write next. 

If you enjoy sports romances with strong character dynamics and a satisfying emotional arc, this book is definitely worth picking up. 

Weekly Spotlight July 22nd

 

Release date July 27th 2026

A heartwarming friends-to-lovers hockey romance filled with fake dating sparks, matchmaking chaos, and a promise that could cost two best friends their chance at forever. 

Scarlett

The last thing I expect when a pushy admirer refuses to take a hint is to find myself throwing my arms around Steven Bennett—my childhood best friend, former heartbreak, and brand-new next-door neighbor—and kissing him. 

“Pretend you’re my boyfriend,” I whisper. 

It’s supposed to be a simple solution. Temporary. Harmless. 

But nothing about Steven has ever been simple. 

Now he’s back home, playing professional hockey for the Wolverines, and living right next door. The more time we spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the feelings I’ve spent years trying to bury. Every shared glance, every lingering touch, every moment of our fake relationship feels all too real. 

The problem? I made a promise to his father that I intend to keep. I vowed to help Steven find the perfect woman—and even if it breaks my heart, I’m determined to see it through. 

Steven

Scarlett’s surprise kiss hits harder than any check I’ve taken on the ice. 

One second she's my best friend. The next, she’s standing in my arms, awakening feelings I’ve fought for years. 

Coming home was supposed to be simple: play hockey, focus on my career, and settle into life as a Wolverine. Instead, I’m pretending to date the one woman I’ve never been able to forget. 

There’s just one problem with Scarlett’s matchmaking plans. 

She keeps setting me up with other women while completely missing the truth. 

I don’t want a perfect match. 

I want her. 

As she searches for my future, I’m running out of ways to convince her that she’s always been the girl I’ve chosen. But if she refuses to let go of the promise she made, I might lose my chance before she ever realizes we belong together. 

Can Steven convince Scarlett to risk their friendship for something more before her loyalty drives them apart forever? 

Perfect for fans of clean sports romance, friends-to-lovers chemistry, fake dating shenanigans, and swoon-worthy hockey heroes. This kisses-only, slow-burn standalone delivers next-door-neighbor charm, mutual pining, matchmaking mischief, heartfelt laughs, and a satisfying happily-ever-after. 

Book Two in the interconnected Bennett Brothers series—and the long-awaited Scarlett story! Grab your copy today and fall in love with Scarlett and Steven’s unforgettable journey from best friends to forever.

Released June 24th 2026 

I know better than anyone that two events do not prove a pattern.

A hockey player scores after meeting me.

Then he wins again when I attend his next game.

Suddenly, an entire city decides I am Everett Shaw’s lucky charm.

The problem is, I do not believe in luck.

I am Sage Donovan, a probability statistician who teaches people how easily the mind invents connections that are not real. I deal in facts, evidence, and measurable truth. Everett deals in instinct, pressure, and finding a way to win when everything is on the line.

We should have had nothing in common.

Then the Buffalo Forge offer me a deal I cannot ignore.

Pretend to date Everett through the playoffs, and the team will provide the funding needed to save the Black Rock community rink, the same rink that gave generations of children a place to belong.

The rules are simple.

Attend the games.

Smile for the cameras.

Touch him when people are watching.

Convince the city that its favorite hockey star has finally found the woman who changed his luck.

Do not fall for him.

That final rule should have been the easiest.

Except Everett is not the arrogant athlete I expected. He remembers everything I say. He notices when I am overwhelmed. He shows up when there are no cameras, no reporters, and nothing to gain.

Our public kisses are supposed to be staged.

Our private ones are not.

The more the team wins, the more valuable our lie becomes. Sponsors want us. Fans track my attendance. The city treats our relationship like part of the playoff strategy.

And every victory makes it harder to tell where the performance ends.

Because Everett does not believe I cause the wins.

He believes he is less afraid of losing when I am beside him.

I should know better than to confuse being needed with being loved.

But when a relationship begins as a transaction, how do you know whether someone wants you, or only what your presence produces?

And what happens when the truth threatens the team, Everett’s career, my professional reputation, and the rink I agreed to save?

The lie was supposed to help us win.

It may cost us everything.

Fake Out by Stephanie Archer

Published December 7th 2023

Read June 1st 2026
 

Book Review: Fake Out by Stephanie Archer

Stephanie Archer returns readers to the beloved Vancouver Storm universe with Fake Out, a character-driven romance that leans heavily into emotional growth, chemistry, and the irresistible pull of opposites attracting. 

Characters – 8/10

At the heart of this story are Rory Miller and Hazel Hartley—two individuals who couldn’t seem more different on the surface, yet fit together in a way that feels both natural and rewarding. 

Rory Miller, the star NHL forward for the Vancouver Storm, initially comes across as the quintessential cocky athlete. He’s arrogant, self-assured, and fully aware of his own appeal. However, Archer skillfully peels back these layers to reveal a much softer core. Beneath the bravado is a man quietly yearning for something real—something deeper than the fleeting attention he’s used to. 

Hazel Hartley, on the other hand, is grounded and focused. As a determined physical therapist for the team, she has her life mapped out with precision. Love is not part of her plan—until Rory begins to challenge everything she thought she knew about herself and her future. 

Together, Rory and Hazel take readers on a heartfelt journey filled with vulnerability, growth, and undeniable chemistry. Watching their emotional walls slowly crumble is one of the novel’s greatest strengths, as both characters must confront their pasts before they can truly embrace love. 

Atmosphere – 8/10

Archer once again immerses readers in the vibrant world of the Vancouver Storm. Fans of Behind the Net will appreciate the return to this familiar setting, now expanded with greater depth and emotional resonance. 

The hockey backdrop adds energy and structure to the story, but it never overshadows the romance. Instead, it enhances the narrative, grounding the characters in a world that feels both dynamic and comforting. Archer continues to build a “safe” fictional space—one readers will find themselves eager to revisit. 

Writing Style – 7/10

Archer’s writing is approachable and engaging, prioritizing readability and emotional connection over literary complexity. While it may not aim for profound prose, it succeeds in delivering exactly what the story needs. 

The romantic and intimate scenes are handled with care, striking a balance between passion and elegance without becoming overly explicit. Archer knows her audience and delivers consistently in tone and pacing. 

Ultimately, the writing serves as a vehicle for what truly shines: the characters. Their voices, interactions, and development carry the novel from beginning to end. 

Plot – 6/10

The plot itself takes a backseat to character development, relying on familiar romance tropes. At its core, Fake Out follows a predictable structure—enemies (or reluctant allies) to lovers, with a hint of unresolved past feelings adding depth. 

One refreshing twist is the presence of a male-driven crush, which adds a slightly different dynamic to the otherwise conventional setup. However, the story doesn’t attempt to break new ground, and readers looking for plot-heavy storytelling may find it somewhat straightforward. 

That said, the predictability doesn’t detract from the enjoyment—it simply reinforces that this is a comfort read rather than a groundbreaking narrative. 

Intrigue – 8/10

Despite the familiar plot beats, Fake Out is undeniably addictive. The emotional investment in Rory and Hazel makes it difficult to put the book down. 

Even when the outcome feels inevitable, Archer keeps readers engaged through strong character chemistry and well-paced relationship development. It’s the kind of story you can easily devour in a single sitting, eager to see how each emotional hurdle is resolved. 

Logic & Flow – 7/10

The novel maintains a steady and believable progression from beginning to end. Character decisions and emotional shifts feel consistent, and there are no major plot holes or jarring moments to disrupt the reading experience. 

Archer ensures that the story flows smoothly, allowing readers to remain fully immersed in the journey. 

Enjoyment – 8/10

Simply put, this is a highly enjoyable read. It’s the kind of book that hooks you early and keeps you turning pages until the very end. 

The combination of engaging characters, emotional payoff, and a familiar yet comforting setting makes Fake Out a standout for readers seeking an easy, satisfying romance. 

Final Verdict – 7.4/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fake Out may not strive for literary greatness, but it doesn’t need to. What it offers instead is a fun, heartfelt, and thoroughly engaging escape into a world readers already love. 

Stephanie Archer continues to build on the charm of the Vancouver Storm series, creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and full of life. The return of familiar characters adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making the world feel interconnected and alive. 

Most importantly, readers will find themselves rooting wholeheartedly for Rory and Hazel, invested in every step of their journey toward love. 

This is the perfect “one-day read”—light, entertaining, and emotionally satisfying. And for many, it may even be worth a reread.