⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Was I hooked by that book? Absolutely. This charming romance left me with a smile on my face and in my heart.

You’d think nearly dying trying to get out of a too-tight gown in a dressing room and being saved by a strong, competent man was a good thing. Not so much, though, when that strong, competent man is your ex. Your secret ex. And the reason you need a gown is because you’re part of a charity auction. The charity auction where he gets into a bidding war to win you. And now, because you’re one of few female coaches in professional baseball, and he’s the captain of the local professional hockey team, and he paid a ridiculous sum of money for you, the entire city is shipping you. You can’t leave your apartment without getting a knowing wink from strangers. Your bosses want to use the publicity to have you jointly launch a new community outreach program. That’s bad enough. It truly is. But even worse? Duncan Lavoie, the green-eyed, curly-haired, dimple-cheeked, hot as lava hockey player wants a second chance. And he’ll play dirty to get it.

MY THOUGHTS

This book is what you can imagine the groveling and making up would look like after the meet cute and the third act breakup, only with much more time available for personal reflection, growth, and reconciliation.

Addie’s struggles to maintain her autonomy in the face of reality and obligations were very poignant. It also showed how we can create new limitations for ourselves while at the same time trying to break free from traditional constraints. Duncan was exactly the partner that Addie needed by respecting her need for independence and being patient while she figured things out. They had intense chemistry and outstanding banter going on between them.

These characters and their struggles touched me deeply and I was very invested in them and their future together. In fact, I was enjoying their journey so much that the ending completely snuck up on me. And while their issues were very serious, the book tackled it all with a fun, light-hearted tone that was an absolute pleasure to read.

I can highly recommend this if you like steamy romance with flawed characters and significant personal development.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Were you hooked by that book? Let me know in the comments below.

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Published: August 1, 2024
Sensuality Rating: Hot
Series: Book 6 of The Copper Valley Thrusters