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Hockey With Benefits
Hockey with benefits. That was what Mara proposed, and I was down.
She said no feelings and she meant it.
Just benefits. No strings attached. Nothing else. Not even friendship.
College was her escape, including us.
I didn’t have time for a girlfriend.
I had classes, the team, my family, and the game.
It was all working too…
Until somewhere down the line, things got messy.
Until somehow we were dealing with threats, secrets, rivals, and so much more.
Until I began to want her in ways that weren’t part of the deal.
Our agreement didn’t just get checked into the wall, it got obliterated.
She said no feelings and she meant it.
Just benefits. No strings attached. Nothing else. Not even friendship.
College was her escape, including us.
I didn’t have time for a girlfriend.
I had classes, the team, my family, and the game.
It was all working too…
Until somewhere down the line, things got messy.
Until somehow we were dealing with threats, secrets, rivals, and so much more.
Until I began to want her in ways that weren’t part of the deal.
Our agreement didn’t just get checked into the wall, it got obliterated.
446 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2023
2170 people are currently reading
6440 people want to read
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December 3, 2023
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
ღ 𝗛𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗬 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗦 ღ Is a full length stand alone, contemporary, sports romance book by author Tijan. Spoken in 'Dual perspectives.' Mara and Cruz.
I haven't had a 5 STAR read in a very long time, and I can't even tell you why I loved this so much because it's that kind of magic this author weaves in all her books, it's unexplainable, it is what it is, it's unique in every way which makes up her, and yet again she's cemented why she's one of my top authors.
These two characters were so relatable, Mara didn't have the best upbringing and without going into detail I connected with her on a much higher level that I expected I would because I too went through what she'd gone through many many times as a child. I kept my friends away, I hid it, everyone was kept at arm's length, though I didn't use Mara's coping mechanism, I buried my head in books.
Cruz he is the kind of guy that all us girls crave in our books, he held my heart in his hands, he wrung out all those mushy feels, alpha when he needed to be, soft in others, caring, patient, and the perfect man to stand beside Mara when it came to breaking down all her prickly walls.
There was one scene with his sister on the ice where the tears just poured out of my eyes, that was heartbreakingly beautiful.
March 11, 2023
This book was a struggle to get through but I persevered as I normally love Tijan’s writing.
When I started reading it felt like I had missed a couple of chapters as we just jumped straight into the FWB relationship that had already started. There was so many characters who were being called by both their first and last name making it impossible to keep track of who was who and what their relationship was with the MC. Throughout the whole book I felt like I was reading a sequel without reading the first book…
When I started reading it felt like I had missed a couple of chapters as we just jumped straight into the FWB relationship that had already started. There was so many characters who were being called by both their first and last name making it impossible to keep track of who was who and what their relationship was with the MC. Throughout the whole book I felt like I was reading a sequel without reading the first book…
March 10, 2023
All the feels and so much more!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: ☺️😮🙂🥰😘
The heroine: Mara Daniels (a.k.a. Little Daniels) - she is a college freshman at Grant West, who just moved into the attic of a house with a bunch of roommates. She likes to keep to herself, but is also a party girl. She doesn’t want to get close to anyone, even as friends. She likes sex and always finds herself a guy who knows the deal, they have fun together, don’t see other people, and they don’t talk about anything personal. Mara has problems at home back in Fallen Crest and doesn’t want to talk about it with anyone.
The Hero: Cruz Styles - He is only a freshman but is the star hockey player at Grant West. He doesn’t have time for a girlfriend, but likes to hook up. He knows the deal and he likes what he has with Mara. He also has issues at home and he doesn’t want to talk about them either. What they have works for both of them.
The Story: At first I hated that this story started out while Cruz and Mara are already in a “just benefits” type relationship. I like the first meeting between the couple and the lead up to how they got where they are now, though it soon became apparent that though they were hooking up, they didn’t know each other at all.
Also, it kind of messed with my head that Mara is from Fallen Crest because it has me wondering if she was ever in any of Tijan’s other books or if she knows all the people from that world. I found out pretty quickly there were people in common with the Crew Series and Rich Prick, which are also books I really enjoyed.
I did like the story and the feelings it evoked. I felt bad for both of these kids and wanted them to just open up to each other so each of them would have that other person so the loads they both carried could be lightened a bit and they could seek solace in each other. Though even before they became more, they did find what they needed in each other and it was super steamy.
There was so much emotion in this story and Tijan has a way of pulling you in and making you feel all of it. I loved how the relationship between Mara and Cruz developed at a realistic pace and they went from just hooking up to desperate for each other to becoming emotionally involved by way of a story that felt completely natural.
This book had everything I like in a new adult sports romance. Such as a feisty and independent heroine, a fantastic Hero, great supporting characters who had depth, a terrific central storyline with all the feels, there were actual hockey games not just hockey players, plenty of steamy scenes, and an intoxicating storyline including a villain. I loved Zeke Allen, Mara’s friend from high school who was so helpful to her, I hope he gets his own story at some point. There were a few characters in this book that I wouldn’t mind seeing again.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: ☺️😮🙂🥰😘
The heroine: Mara Daniels (a.k.a. Little Daniels) - she is a college freshman at Grant West, who just moved into the attic of a house with a bunch of roommates. She likes to keep to herself, but is also a party girl. She doesn’t want to get close to anyone, even as friends. She likes sex and always finds herself a guy who knows the deal, they have fun together, don’t see other people, and they don’t talk about anything personal. Mara has problems at home back in Fallen Crest and doesn’t want to talk about it with anyone.
The Hero: Cruz Styles - He is only a freshman but is the star hockey player at Grant West. He doesn’t have time for a girlfriend, but likes to hook up. He knows the deal and he likes what he has with Mara. He also has issues at home and he doesn’t want to talk about them either. What they have works for both of them.
The Story: At first I hated that this story started out while Cruz and Mara are already in a “just benefits” type relationship. I like the first meeting between the couple and the lead up to how they got where they are now, though it soon became apparent that though they were hooking up, they didn’t know each other at all.
Also, it kind of messed with my head that Mara is from Fallen Crest because it has me wondering if she was ever in any of Tijan’s other books or if she knows all the people from that world. I found out pretty quickly there were people in common with the Crew Series and Rich Prick, which are also books I really enjoyed.
I did like the story and the feelings it evoked. I felt bad for both of these kids and wanted them to just open up to each other so each of them would have that other person so the loads they both carried could be lightened a bit and they could seek solace in each other. Though even before they became more, they did find what they needed in each other and it was super steamy.
There was so much emotion in this story and Tijan has a way of pulling you in and making you feel all of it. I loved how the relationship between Mara and Cruz developed at a realistic pace and they went from just hooking up to desperate for each other to becoming emotionally involved by way of a story that felt completely natural.
“Never feel safe. When you did, that’s when the world would get pulled out from under you.
That’s when you would fall.
I could never get comfortable. I could never feel safe.
I surrounded myself with people I didn’t fully like… Or I kept them at bay, the ones that were already in.”
This book had everything I like in a new adult sports romance. Such as a feisty and independent heroine, a fantastic Hero, great supporting characters who had depth, a terrific central storyline with all the feels, there were actual hockey games not just hockey players, plenty of steamy scenes, and an intoxicating storyline including a villain. I loved Zeke Allen, Mara’s friend from high school who was so helpful to her, I hope he gets his own story at some point. There were a few characters in this book that I wouldn’t mind seeing again.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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May 9, 2023
4 stars
Hockey with Benefits was a lot of drama, a lot of angst, but I couldn’t put it down. Mara and Cruz are together, but their not. Mara doesn’t do boyfriends and Cruz is focusing on hockey and school and doesn’t want a girlfriend either, but they have an arrangement. They both have a lot going on with their families and on top of that there is college drama. I loved watching them break through each others barriers and fall into each other. Tijan always writes the most addicting books and this was no exception. It was also fun to see some ‘Crew’ characters.
Hockey with Benefits was a lot of drama, a lot of angst, but I couldn’t put it down. Mara and Cruz are together, but their not. Mara doesn’t do boyfriends and Cruz is focusing on hockey and school and doesn’t want a girlfriend either, but they have an arrangement. They both have a lot going on with their families and on top of that there is college drama. I loved watching them break through each others barriers and fall into each other. Tijan always writes the most addicting books and this was no exception. It was also fun to see some ‘Crew’ characters.
June 26, 2024
This book felt like one big inside joke that I was definitely not a part of. I had no idea who any of the secondary characters were and so much information seemed to be missing. I thought this was a standalone, but it seems to be interconnected with the Fallen Crest or Crew series, which I haven't read. I am completely lost.
The book centred around Mara and Cruz, but the majority of the characters related to her and aspects of her backstory are from the other series. This is what I'm assuming anyway, as you only get clipped information. It's like you're already expected to know who these people are. So it's not really a standalone.
There are the parts of the plot that were dropped and just left, I assume from the other series. (This was my understanding of these plot points)
🤨Mara used to be part of the b*tch group in HS and a bully. One of the nicer bullies maybe.
🤨She was involved in a lot of gang activity
🤨There is a potential rivalry with her best friend, who was maybe the head b*tch.
🤨She had a fwb relationship with a gang leader, but then he fell in love with someone else.
🤨She may have been bullying this man’s sister.
The point is the plot grazes over all these details, so conversations she has with anyone from her past seem pointless. The whole time you are trying to work out if she likes this person and what their history may be. You are told the bare minimum and I HAVE NO REAL IDEA WHAT THE CHARACTERS ARE TALKING ABOUT.
If this book solely focused on Mara and Cruz’s relationship I would have been fully invested. They are fwb, but they aren't friends…
This pair actually really complimented each other. The FMC had a very hard exterior and naturally distanced herself from others, due to a traumatic upbringing. The MMC also had a complicated past, so this arrangement and the boundaries they put in place also work well for him.
This book started with this arrangement having already occurred for several months. I felt like this really spoke to their relationship. The fact that it didn't start off deeper than it was. We didn't need to know more than the basics and the boundaries.
Dnf at 70%. This story continued to get confusing. I thought the FMC’s storyline was complex with all her history, but then we get to the MMC and this man had even more going on. I can't keep up and now the mums talking about contacting the spirit of a deceased woman...respect, but what is happening right now!!
It slightly pains me to write this review, as Tijan has written some of my favourite books, but this wasn't it.
This was available on KU last time I checked, so if you have read the other series you may enjoy it.
The book centred around Mara and Cruz, but the majority of the characters related to her and aspects of her backstory are from the other series. This is what I'm assuming anyway, as you only get clipped information. It's like you're already expected to know who these people are. So it's not really a standalone.
There are the parts of the plot that were dropped and just left, I assume from the other series. (This was my understanding of these plot points)
🤨Mara used to be part of the b*tch group in HS and a bully. One of the nicer bullies maybe.
🤨She was involved in a lot of gang activity
🤨There is a potential rivalry with her best friend, who was maybe the head b*tch.
🤨She had a fwb relationship with a gang leader, but then he fell in love with someone else.
🤨She may have been bullying this man’s sister.
The point is the plot grazes over all these details, so conversations she has with anyone from her past seem pointless. The whole time you are trying to work out if she likes this person and what their history may be. You are told the bare minimum and I HAVE NO REAL IDEA WHAT THE CHARACTERS ARE TALKING ABOUT.
If this book solely focused on Mara and Cruz’s relationship I would have been fully invested. They are fwb, but they aren't friends…
This pair actually really complimented each other. The FMC had a very hard exterior and naturally distanced herself from others, due to a traumatic upbringing. The MMC also had a complicated past, so this arrangement and the boundaries they put in place also work well for him.
This book started with this arrangement having already occurred for several months. I felt like this really spoke to their relationship. The fact that it didn't start off deeper than it was. We didn't need to know more than the basics and the boundaries.
Dnf at 70%. This story continued to get confusing. I thought the FMC’s storyline was complex with all her history, but then we get to the MMC and this man had even more going on. I can't keep up and now the mums talking about contacting the spirit of a deceased woman...respect, but what is happening right now!!
It slightly pains me to write this review, as Tijan has written some of my favourite books, but this wasn't it.
This was available on KU last time I checked, so if you have read the other series you may enjoy it.
March 12, 2023
Oh yeah!!!!!
Already exited about it - Tijan does New Adult College like no one other ♡ and even better it's a hockey sports romance - my favorite kind!!!
No surprise here, I read the book in one sitting - devoured it so to speak. And again, I'm proved correctly, I'm a HUGE lover of her NA college novels, even more so when they are sports romances. It's just Kindle crack for me. My soul needs some Tijan ever few month - more sports/college themed than mafia.
Hockey With Benefits was exactly what I needed on a rainy Saturday.
It was delightfully entertaining, with a good amount of signature Tijan DRAMA, but also much more emotional than expected, and characters, especially the heroine, who stand out from the crowd.
Love Tijan's heroines. They are never bland. Uniquely and individually different.
Also, loved the sweet cameos, especially Zeke's, he has become my favourite supporting character!!!!
I'll be in withdrawal until the next one 🤞🏼 fingers crossed it won't be a mafia one - lol.
Already exited about it - Tijan does New Adult College like no one other ♡ and even better it's a hockey sports romance - my favorite kind!!!
No surprise here, I read the book in one sitting - devoured it so to speak. And again, I'm proved correctly, I'm a HUGE lover of her NA college novels, even more so when they are sports romances. It's just Kindle crack for me. My soul needs some Tijan ever few month - more sports/college themed than mafia.
Hockey With Benefits was exactly what I needed on a rainy Saturday.
It was delightfully entertaining, with a good amount of signature Tijan DRAMA, but also much more emotional than expected, and characters, especially the heroine, who stand out from the crowd.
Love Tijan's heroines. They are never bland. Uniquely and individually different.
Also, loved the sweet cameos, especially Zeke's, he has become my favourite supporting character!!!!
I'll be in withdrawal until the next one 🤞🏼 fingers crossed it won't be a mafia one - lol.
March 7, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🔥🔥
I received an ARC from Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge lover of sports romances and this was my first read by this author so I was very excited to get my hands on Hockey with Benefits. Unfortunately, I didn't love it has much as I had hoped I would.
There were so many different characters introduced and sometimes they were referred to by their first names and sometimes by their last, it was very confusing and made it very difficult for me to keep track of who was who and from where or how they all knew each other. I don't know if there are other books where these characters are mentioned, but some backstory would have definitely helped. It didn’t feel like a true standalone to me.
In the beginning Mara's whole personality felt very over the top and she came across as very unlikeable in my opinion. Even though apparently everybody who was introduced either wanted to sleep with her or wanted to fight her. 🙄
She did have some major growth throughout the book and I am very glad for that.
Cruz Styles had his sweet moments. He and Mara both have some family baggage, but his helped him be able to understand what Mara needed from him. He was patient with her and never pushed her when he could tell she was dealing with too much. I loved them together and how they blossomed as a couple.
I’m normally not one to complain, but this story almost had too much drama, some completely unnecessary and some of it didn’t really feel finished, which is surprising considering how long the book is.
🔥🔥
I received an ARC from Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge lover of sports romances and this was my first read by this author so I was very excited to get my hands on Hockey with Benefits. Unfortunately, I didn't love it has much as I had hoped I would.
There were so many different characters introduced and sometimes they were referred to by their first names and sometimes by their last, it was very confusing and made it very difficult for me to keep track of who was who and from where or how they all knew each other. I don't know if there are other books where these characters are mentioned, but some backstory would have definitely helped. It didn’t feel like a true standalone to me.
In the beginning Mara's whole personality felt very over the top and she came across as very unlikeable in my opinion. Even though apparently everybody who was introduced either wanted to sleep with her or wanted to fight her. 🙄
She did have some major growth throughout the book and I am very glad for that.
Cruz Styles had his sweet moments. He and Mara both have some family baggage, but his helped him be able to understand what Mara needed from him. He was patient with her and never pushed her when he could tell she was dealing with too much. I loved them together and how they blossomed as a couple.
I’m normally not one to complain, but this story almost had too much drama, some completely unnecessary and some of it didn’t really feel finished, which is surprising considering how long the book is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2023
Let’s just get this out of the way. Yes, I live under a rock because this is the first romance I’ve read by this ridiculously gifted wordsmith. And holy wow, it absolutely, 100% won’t be my last! I’m gob smacked and desperate for more. I’ve known about her for over five years and my only regret is that it took me this long to read her phenomenal work.
This isn’t just young adult. This is young adult romance on steroids! There are shenanigans and silliness and power struggles and drama. So. Much. Drama! Drama on top of drama. But the main characters are fascinating, multi-layered, vulnerable and endearing without being selfish or immature. My absolutely favorite kind of characters who learn and grow and become the most incredible version of themselves.
Mara Daniels is a freshman at Grant West who keeps to herself. She rents an attic room in a house with other students, and she doesn’t have time or patience for petty, jealous mean-girl antics that are so prevalent on the college scene. She has a not-friends-with-benefits arrangement that with hockey player, Cruz Styles, and they stick to one rule: no personal information ever.
It's a great arrangement until their personal lives, Mara's especially, intrude in their college life and refuse to be ignored. Mara's carefully constructed walls are crumbling, leaving her open and vulnerable. It becomes clear who the true friends are when Mara can no longer keep her past and personal life hidden. And this is when our amazing hero, Cruz, really shines.
In the midst of young-adult angst and delightfully endearing secondary characters, Tijan takes on some really tough subject matters, handling them with authenticity, care and grace. My heart broke for Mara, yet seeing one of the antagonists through her eyes evoked a surprising amount of compassion and empathy.
I’ve read a lot of young adult sports romances, and this one is exceptionally well done. Beautifully written, balancing humor and heat while masterfully playing my heartstrings, it took me from devastating, ruinous lows to the sweetest most beautiful highs. This phenomenal, evocative romance has easily made itself a place at the top of my list of favorites, just as the characters have made a permanent place for themselves in my heart. I love absolutely everything about Mara, Cruz, and their road to forever.
While this one stands alone, I’m desperately hoping this gifted storyteller will consider a series in this book world, because there are more stories from some truly wonderful characters just waiting to be told. *fingers crossed* In the meantime, run to the 1-Click and start reading this one ASAP. It will be one of your very best reads this year and promises to make your romantic heart blissfully happy.
This isn’t just young adult. This is young adult romance on steroids! There are shenanigans and silliness and power struggles and drama. So. Much. Drama! Drama on top of drama. But the main characters are fascinating, multi-layered, vulnerable and endearing without being selfish or immature. My absolutely favorite kind of characters who learn and grow and become the most incredible version of themselves.
Mara Daniels is a freshman at Grant West who keeps to herself. She rents an attic room in a house with other students, and she doesn’t have time or patience for petty, jealous mean-girl antics that are so prevalent on the college scene. She has a not-friends-with-benefits arrangement that with hockey player, Cruz Styles, and they stick to one rule: no personal information ever.
It's a great arrangement until their personal lives, Mara's especially, intrude in their college life and refuse to be ignored. Mara's carefully constructed walls are crumbling, leaving her open and vulnerable. It becomes clear who the true friends are when Mara can no longer keep her past and personal life hidden. And this is when our amazing hero, Cruz, really shines.
In the midst of young-adult angst and delightfully endearing secondary characters, Tijan takes on some really tough subject matters, handling them with authenticity, care and grace. My heart broke for Mara, yet seeing one of the antagonists through her eyes evoked a surprising amount of compassion and empathy.
I’ve read a lot of young adult sports romances, and this one is exceptionally well done. Beautifully written, balancing humor and heat while masterfully playing my heartstrings, it took me from devastating, ruinous lows to the sweetest most beautiful highs. This phenomenal, evocative romance has easily made itself a place at the top of my list of favorites, just as the characters have made a permanent place for themselves in my heart. I love absolutely everything about Mara, Cruz, and their road to forever.
While this one stands alone, I’m desperately hoping this gifted storyteller will consider a series in this book world, because there are more stories from some truly wonderful characters just waiting to be told. *fingers crossed* In the meantime, run to the 1-Click and start reading this one ASAP. It will be one of your very best reads this year and promises to make your romantic heart blissfully happy.
March 6, 2023
I want to start off by saying that I absolutely love Mara and Cruz together! They made such a good couple and I loved their chemistry. I was so soft for how sweet he was with Mara and how hot he was for her. My favourite scene had to be the laser tag, though! It was so fun to read it, and I really enjoyed how well Mara fit in with the guys.
However, I had a lot of confusion reading this. There were A LOT of characters. By the end, I still don't think I have them all straight and I'm confused with who was who, who belonged to what group, and who knew who from what. There was so much going on and it was really hard for me to keep up with everything. I also felt like I missed a book or a supplement somewhere. When I started reading, all the characters seemed familiar with each other, but I had no clue what was going on. I don't know if I missed a tie-in series or what, but it definitely felt like something was missing.
I also thought that Mara's character came across as highly unstable. She was so hot and cold, and seemed to flip on a dime sometimes. Her character development though **chef's kiss** she came so far by the end of the book and I'm so here for it! I loved how much she was ready to fight for herself and for others, and it was so fascinating to watch her grow throughout the book!
However, I had a lot of confusion reading this. There were A LOT of characters. By the end, I still don't think I have them all straight and I'm confused with who was who, who belonged to what group, and who knew who from what. There was so much going on and it was really hard for me to keep up with everything. I also felt like I missed a book or a supplement somewhere. When I started reading, all the characters seemed familiar with each other, but I had no clue what was going on. I don't know if I missed a tie-in series or what, but it definitely felt like something was missing.
I also thought that Mara's character came across as highly unstable. She was so hot and cold, and seemed to flip on a dime sometimes. Her character development though **chef's kiss** she came so far by the end of the book and I'm so here for it! I loved how much she was ready to fight for herself and for others, and it was so fascinating to watch her grow throughout the book!
May 20, 2023
3.6⭐️
rep-updating my review because thinking back i did not like this book as much.
hockey romances are forever *chefs kiss* but this was above average. the story line kinda starts after they’re already hooking up so it’s kinda confusing
there’s a shit ton of drama that was so much to grasp and thinking back i barely even remember what happened
over wasnt 4 stars worthy but i’d say it was better than some of the other cliché hockey romances i’ve read
rep-updating my review because thinking back i did not like this book as much.
hockey romances are forever *chefs kiss* but this was above average. the story line kinda starts after they’re already hooking up so it’s kinda confusing
there’s a shit ton of drama that was so much to grasp and thinking back i barely even remember what happened
over wasnt 4 stars worthy but i’d say it was better than some of the other cliché hockey romances i’ve read
September 16, 2023
♾️/ ⭐️.
Ho bisogno di tempo per metabolizzare una recensione per quello che è diventato uno dei miei hockey romance preferiti di sempre.
Non ho mai letto un libro con dei traumi affrontati così divinamente.
Non c'è voto che tenga per un libro che riesce a donare tutto questo.
Non c'è tempo che possa riempire il vuoto di cosa lascia un libro che ti ricorda perché la lettura è parte di te.
O forse sì. Un simbolo c'è. Ed è una sola risposta.
Ho bisogno di tempo per metabolizzare una recensione per quello che è diventato uno dei miei hockey romance preferiti di sempre.
Non ho mai letto un libro con dei traumi affrontati così divinamente.
Non c'è voto che tenga per un libro che riesce a donare tutto questo.
Non c'è tempo che possa riempire il vuoto di cosa lascia un libro che ti ricorda perché la lettura è parte di te.
O forse sì. Un simbolo c'è. Ed è una sola risposta.
Read
March 15, 2023So I’m about 50% done with this book and I think I’ll DNF.
The FMC is so infuriating. She’s a grade A b*tch to literally everyone. For seemingly no reason most of the time. She has zero girl friend (red flags) only guy friends. She’s the girl all the guys want, all of the girls at parties hate. It’s so cliche and not in a cute way. I do not like her honestly. She has some unknown trauma (not known to me yet) but the whole *I hate girls bc they’re just drama* thing and literally gets into a knock out brawl with a girl bc the girl said some stupid sh*t to her. Gross.
I am very invested in the plot and want to know what’s going to happen but honestly I don’t think I can read this FMC anymore.
The FMC is so infuriating. She’s a grade A b*tch to literally everyone. For seemingly no reason most of the time. She has zero girl friend (red flags) only guy friends. She’s the girl all the guys want, all of the girls at parties hate. It’s so cliche and not in a cute way. I do not like her honestly. She has some unknown trauma (not known to me yet) but the whole *I hate girls bc they’re just drama* thing and literally gets into a knock out brawl with a girl bc the girl said some stupid sh*t to her. Gross.
I am very invested in the plot and want to know what’s going to happen but honestly I don’t think I can read this FMC anymore.
November 14, 2023
4.25/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
This was the perfect friends with benefits romance book 😍
I enjoyed every second of this read. I think Tijan’s writing completely had me hooked.
This was my first time reading anything by this author and it certainly won’t be my last! 🫶🏼
2.5/5 🌶️
This was the perfect friends with benefits romance book 😍
I enjoyed every second of this read. I think Tijan’s writing completely had me hooked.
This was my first time reading anything by this author and it certainly won’t be my last! 🫶🏼
March 12, 2023
***4,25 "#teamcruz & #teamdaniels" stars***
“Never feel safe.
When you did, that’s when the world would get pulled out from under you.
That’s when you would fall.”
This was such a heartbreaking, but at the same time, wonderful story!!!
Yes, this book was about one girl and one boy that had an arrangement between them, but soon, it became something so much more than just sex with benefits...
Mara was breaking my heart cause she was living with walls a mile long around herself and Cruz was a man who had so much to offer, even when his own world was tumbling down...
Something that started as only sex with benefits, turned out to be just...everything!!!
"I wasn't the girl that got the guy.
I knew the deal.
The guys knew the deal..."
Mara and Cruz are having a deal... Whenever they felt like it, they were having sex, but outside that, they weren't connected in any way... They weren't friends, they weren't running around the same circles, but several times the week, they would find release to each other;s body...
But soon, everything are about to change...
Soon, this arrangement won't be enough for neither of them, but that new need is scary and they will try to suffocate it!!!
Will they succeed to keep their walls up when one by one this said walls are being wrecked from the circumstances that are surrounding them???
"She did that. She shifted the wall.
I'd never let her put it back."
I liked Mara and Cruz so much!!!
Mara was a very complicated creature and she had a good reason for that...
She preffered her isolation over the gossip about her life...
She preffered to be surrounded by solid and unbreakable walls...
But this semester, Mara will find out that loneliness is not always the right choice...
Cruz for her is a getaway from her solitude, but he seems to be the one who is holding the more powerful sledgehammer and he is about to bring chaos in her already chaotic life!!!
"I could push everyone else away. But not him. Not Cruz."
Cruz is living and breathing hockey... He doesn't need more complications in his life than he is already having...
That's why Mara Daniels is the perfect girl for him, cause she is uncomplicated and everything that he needs...
Until, he is realizing that he needs more of her!!!
Cruz was the perfect boy I'm telling you... I loved him so much and he was playing my heart strings so masterfully... I can totally understand why Mara couldn't resist him anymore...
"I was addicted to her, and it was becoming more."
Another one great story by Tijan's pen!!! I am always under her spell when I am reading her books...
I love the drama and her complicated heroes very much...
I won't hide to you that the many names and persons was a little frustrating from time to time, or that I was feeling that I was missing something since I haven't read everything by her yet... But I got over it soon and I enjoyed the story very much!!!
Also...I am very charmed by Zeke... He kind of stole the show here!!!
And I wonder.... Is there somewhere out there his story??? And if not, maybe Tijan needs to write it??? LOL
"I don't let myself get close to anyone.
But you, you changed the game."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
“Never feel safe.
When you did, that’s when the world would get pulled out from under you.
That’s when you would fall.”
This was such a heartbreaking, but at the same time, wonderful story!!!
Yes, this book was about one girl and one boy that had an arrangement between them, but soon, it became something so much more than just sex with benefits...
Mara was breaking my heart cause she was living with walls a mile long around herself and Cruz was a man who had so much to offer, even when his own world was tumbling down...
Something that started as only sex with benefits, turned out to be just...everything!!!
"I wasn't the girl that got the guy.
I knew the deal.
The guys knew the deal..."
Mara and Cruz are having a deal... Whenever they felt like it, they were having sex, but outside that, they weren't connected in any way... They weren't friends, they weren't running around the same circles, but several times the week, they would find release to each other;s body...
But soon, everything are about to change...
Soon, this arrangement won't be enough for neither of them, but that new need is scary and they will try to suffocate it!!!
Will they succeed to keep their walls up when one by one this said walls are being wrecked from the circumstances that are surrounding them???
"She did that. She shifted the wall.
I'd never let her put it back."
I liked Mara and Cruz so much!!!
Mara was a very complicated creature and she had a good reason for that...
She preffered her isolation over the gossip about her life...
She preffered to be surrounded by solid and unbreakable walls...
But this semester, Mara will find out that loneliness is not always the right choice...
Cruz for her is a getaway from her solitude, but he seems to be the one who is holding the more powerful sledgehammer and he is about to bring chaos in her already chaotic life!!!
"I could push everyone else away. But not him. Not Cruz."
Cruz is living and breathing hockey... He doesn't need more complications in his life than he is already having...
That's why Mara Daniels is the perfect girl for him, cause she is uncomplicated and everything that he needs...
Until, he is realizing that he needs more of her!!!
Cruz was the perfect boy I'm telling you... I loved him so much and he was playing my heart strings so masterfully... I can totally understand why Mara couldn't resist him anymore...
"I was addicted to her, and it was becoming more."
Another one great story by Tijan's pen!!! I am always under her spell when I am reading her books...
I love the drama and her complicated heroes very much...
I won't hide to you that the many names and persons was a little frustrating from time to time, or that I was feeling that I was missing something since I haven't read everything by her yet... But I got over it soon and I enjoyed the story very much!!!
Also...I am very charmed by Zeke... He kind of stole the show here!!!
And I wonder.... Is there somewhere out there his story??? And if not, maybe Tijan needs to write it??? LOL
"I don't let myself get close to anyone.
But you, you changed the game."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
March 6, 2023
I received an eARC in return for my honest review. I was super excited to receive this one. I love hockey romance, I basically make it my whole personality but this was tough to get through. It's hard for me to even write this review bc it was just all over the place.
There was so many characters, it was very confusing. They are called by their last name and then their first, it was all over the place and made it hard to follow along.
Cruz and Mara are already like in their sex deal, won't call it FWB, bc Mara doesn't do friends. I wish we could of seen the beginning of their relationship.
I did like the MCs chemistry and how their relationship seemed to naturally develop. The book does cover some heavier topics, mental illness, sexual assault. So make sure to check triggers warnings before diving into this one if you decide to.
I would pass on this one, better hockey romances out there.
Overall: 3.25
Spice: 1
There was so many characters, it was very confusing. They are called by their last name and then their first, it was all over the place and made it hard to follow along.
Cruz and Mara are already like in their sex deal, won't call it FWB, bc Mara doesn't do friends. I wish we could of seen the beginning of their relationship.
I did like the MCs chemistry and how their relationship seemed to naturally develop. The book does cover some heavier topics, mental illness, sexual assault. So make sure to check triggers warnings before diving into this one if you decide to.
I would pass on this one, better hockey romances out there.
Overall: 3.25
Spice: 1
March 21, 2023
I had to DNF this at 44%. Mara is very hard to like, she's very cold, and a bit OTT with some of her outbursts. There's some things in her past, things that have her the way that she is. I did like Cruz enough to try to push forward, curious about him, his past, but I just couldn't. . There's a lot of other characters in both of their lives and it felt overwhelming at times needing to keep them all straight. This was my first read by this author, and sadly I just couldn't connect enough with the story to continue.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
dnf
April 14, 2023Dnf @ 20% for now...
I'm so lost with this story, who's who (first names, surnames). I've not read all of the Fallen Crest series and spin offs so to me there are people all over that I don't know, and already in the 'friends with benefits' stage as it opens up.
I'm not feeling any chemistry and Mara's personality is all over the place. I just don't have the head space to carry on at present but may try again in the future.
I'm so lost with this story, who's who (first names, surnames). I've not read all of the Fallen Crest series and spin offs so to me there are people all over that I don't know, and already in the 'friends with benefits' stage as it opens up.
I'm not feeling any chemistry and Mara's personality is all over the place. I just don't have the head space to carry on at present but may try again in the future.
August 22, 2024
Tijan manages to write the same FMC in every one of her books.
FMC is small and petite but has an ass and tits because she's not like those other skinny girls. She has major trusts issues and doesn't have any friends, but every guy wants to fuck her. She's not like other girls, and she doesn't want to fuck the most popular guy at school like those other sluts but the FMC ends up in a FWB situation with the popular guy because she's irresistible. But she doesn't try to look pretty, she's just naturally stunning and oozes sex appeal.
Maybe I've read too many Tijan books recently but the similarities in every one of her books has me rolling my eyes. At this point, it feels like some weird self-insert.
FMC is small and petite but has an ass and tits because she's not like those other skinny girls. She has major trusts issues and doesn't have any friends, but every guy wants to fuck her. She's not like other girls, and she doesn't want to fuck the most popular guy at school like those other sluts but the FMC ends up in a FWB situation with the popular guy because she's irresistible. But she doesn't try to look pretty, she's just naturally stunning and oozes sex appeal.
Maybe I've read too many Tijan books recently but the similarities in every one of her books has me rolling my eyes. At this point, it feels like some weird self-insert.
March 7, 2023
Oh. My. Gosh. I’m a huge HUGE lover of Tijan books and just when I think I have a new favourite she goes and brings out a new book and it takes over everything.
When I heard Hockey With Benefits was going to be Mara’s book my interest was piqued..and I just KNEWthat the girl I hated from Rich Prick I would end up loving and I was absolutely right. I loved Mara. That girl has been through so much I’m actually surprised she’s still standing. Her childhood wasn’t great, the things she dealt with was horrific, the things she deals with in the present was heartbreaking. She’s a strong and caring woman and man, my heart goes to her.
Cruz, oh that guy. The trauma he’s been dealt was simply heartbreaking and made me want to hug him so hard. On the outside he’s tough and hard faced but on the inside there’s so much more to him. He’s kind, he’s caring and those who are close to him, he loves them fiercely.
From the get go there was instant chemistry with these two but watching their whole relationship thing develop and them sort through some stuff they have going on has been so great. I legit could not bring myself to put the book down.
I just have to say I absolutely loved the fact that some of the Rich Prick crew were in this book and that they were in it often. I love me crossover characters and no Rich Prick does not need to be read first in order to enjoy this story but I totally would because Tijan books are SO GOOD
The only thing I had a problem with is the amount of characters in it, I was so confused as to who was who but maybe that was just me. Sometimes their first name was used then their last and my brain was instant no haha but other than that I absolutely loved everything!
Hockey With Benefits is a fun and heart wrenching young adult sports romance. A story that’ll leave you wanting more.
When I heard Hockey With Benefits was going to be Mara’s book my interest was piqued..and I just KNEWthat the girl I hated from Rich Prick I would end up loving and I was absolutely right. I loved Mara. That girl has been through so much I’m actually surprised she’s still standing. Her childhood wasn’t great, the things she dealt with was horrific, the things she deals with in the present was heartbreaking. She’s a strong and caring woman and man, my heart goes to her.
Cruz, oh that guy. The trauma he’s been dealt was simply heartbreaking and made me want to hug him so hard. On the outside he’s tough and hard faced but on the inside there’s so much more to him. He’s kind, he’s caring and those who are close to him, he loves them fiercely.
From the get go there was instant chemistry with these two but watching their whole relationship thing develop and them sort through some stuff they have going on has been so great. I legit could not bring myself to put the book down.
I just have to say I absolutely loved the fact that some of the Rich Prick crew were in this book and that they were in it often. I love me crossover characters and no Rich Prick does not need to be read first in order to enjoy this story but I totally would because Tijan books are SO GOOD
The only thing I had a problem with is the amount of characters in it, I was so confused as to who was who but maybe that was just me. Sometimes their first name was used then their last and my brain was instant no haha but other than that I absolutely loved everything!
Hockey With Benefits is a fun and heart wrenching young adult sports romance. A story that’ll leave you wanting more.
March 9, 2023
This was a cute read overall, though it lost some cookie points at the end. I’m a fan of HEA but sometimes it’s just too sappy, and this was exactly it. It felt like reading a fairytale, the last sentence being: “ and they lived happily ever after”. This is automatically a no for me.
I get it, things got dealt with, you guys are in love, but nah. Give me something more!!
But yeah, other than that ending, this was a cute read that deals with some heavy stuff.
I get it, things got dealt with, you guys are in love, but nah. Give me something more!!
But yeah, other than that ending, this was a cute read that deals with some heavy stuff.
March 24, 2023
***AVAILABLE NOW***
3.5 STARS
I liked it. There are things I really loved and things that were lackluster.
What I loved:
1. I really loved Mara. She was tough, was honest about who was and was a fighter for others.
2. I loved Cruz too. He was the perfect guy for Mara.
3. They were a really good couple together, they healed each other and got each other on a deeper level because of their trauma.
4. I loved that Mara found a family in her roommates and other secondary characters.
What I needed more of:
1. I needed more action. It was very character driven and it lost steam for me a bit.
2. There seemed to be some plot points left unresolved or just glossed over. There was a lot of back story.
3. There were so many characters and, and for some, I did feel like I needed to have read their books just to know who they were.
4. The steam died off for me. It started great and then just kind of vanished.
Overall, it was a decent read. It started out strong but then petered out as the book went on.
3.5 STARS
I liked it. There are things I really loved and things that were lackluster.
What I loved:
1. I really loved Mara. She was tough, was honest about who was and was a fighter for others.
2. I loved Cruz too. He was the perfect guy for Mara.
3. They were a really good couple together, they healed each other and got each other on a deeper level because of their trauma.
4. I loved that Mara found a family in her roommates and other secondary characters.
What I needed more of:
1. I needed more action. It was very character driven and it lost steam for me a bit.
2. There seemed to be some plot points left unresolved or just glossed over. There was a lot of back story.
3. There were so many characters and, and for some, I did feel like I needed to have read their books just to know who they were.
4. The steam died off for me. It started great and then just kind of vanished.
Overall, it was a decent read. It started out strong but then petered out as the book went on.
March 11, 2023
“Cruz knew the deal. No personal shit.
He knew the rules because he was my not-friend with benefits.”
I dont know what Tijan puts in her stories but I am addicted and can not put them down till The End.
Both Mara and Cruz are both navigating their time in college and relationships. Cruz with hockey, friends and younger sister at home.
Mara just wants to finish her education and keep her walls up and people away because of her mom.
Mara sets rules with Cruz to keep it strictly physical.
However the angst and chemistry between Mara and Cruz is undeniable.
Mara doesn’t want to rely on anyone but things occur that slowly allow some vulnerability.
This plot felt familiar Tijan with drama, fights, family conflicts and emotions. Plenty of spice also.
I loved that this is also Fallen Crest adjacent so some surprise characters that added laughs and heartfelt moments.
Dual POV
New Adult
Check triggers
ARC
He knew the rules because he was my not-friend with benefits.”
I dont know what Tijan puts in her stories but I am addicted and can not put them down till The End.
Both Mara and Cruz are both navigating their time in college and relationships. Cruz with hockey, friends and younger sister at home.
Mara just wants to finish her education and keep her walls up and people away because of her mom.
Mara sets rules with Cruz to keep it strictly physical.
However the angst and chemistry between Mara and Cruz is undeniable.
Mara doesn’t want to rely on anyone but things occur that slowly allow some vulnerability.
This plot felt familiar Tijan with drama, fights, family conflicts and emotions. Plenty of spice also.
I loved that this is also Fallen Crest adjacent so some surprise characters that added laughs and heartfelt moments.
Dual POV
New Adult
Check triggers
ARC
May 29, 2023
Sometimes I like to read terrible books, already knowing they will be dreadful. This is one of those times xD
With the added horror that this is obviously a spin-off of a multiple-book series and it's impossible to follow the seven thousand name drops and easter eggs if you haven't read the previous novels, so half the book doesn't even make sense. Tijan had the audacity to call it a standalone.
With the added horror that this is obviously a spin-off of a multiple-book series and it's impossible to follow the seven thousand name drops and easter eggs if you haven't read the previous novels, so half the book doesn't even make sense. Tijan had the audacity to call it a standalone.
Want to read
February 15, 2023Genres: New Adult Romance, Sports Romance
Tropes: Alpha Hero, Angsty, Athlete, Sports, Tortured Lead, Tragic Past
Tropes: Alpha Hero, Angsty, Athlete, Sports, Tortured Lead, Tragic Past
April 26, 2023
I absolutely loved Mara and Cruz together. They made such a good couple… I loved their chemistry. However, this book was so confusing. It felt like I started reading this from the middle and missed an important introduction.
There are like 100 different character stories intertwined with this one and I was just like who the hell are all of these people???
My gawd, soooo many characters from different circles who are introduced throughout this book, and the author never explains them to you. You can’t define who is who, who likes who, and how they know each other.
To make things worse, the author uses first names and last names for the same character, which only contributes to the confusion even more. I honest to God I could never fully separate Miles, Darren, Gavin, and a few other names… 🤯
I was under the impression this was a standalone novel, but apparently you need to read Fallen Crest High series before. Otherwise, you will be lost.
Read this if you like:
✓ College sports romance 🏒 hockey
✓ Fling to something real
✓ He falls first
There are like 100 different character stories intertwined with this one and I was just like who the hell are all of these people???
My gawd, soooo many characters from different circles who are introduced throughout this book, and the author never explains them to you. You can’t define who is who, who likes who, and how they know each other.
To make things worse, the author uses first names and last names for the same character, which only contributes to the confusion even more. I honest to God I could never fully separate Miles, Darren, Gavin, and a few other names… 🤯
I was under the impression this was a standalone novel, but apparently you need to read Fallen Crest High series before. Otherwise, you will be lost.
Read this if you like:
✓ College sports romance 🏒 hockey
✓ Fling to something real
✓ He falls first
March 25, 2023
Honestly, this might be one of the worst sport romances I have read in general.
Mara is "not like other girls" and every girl that sees or meets her is instantly jealous of her beautiful and just attacks her. Mara is just so tiny and petite but has ALL the right features she's always wanted. Every guy seems to just want Mara, not the other girls that are around.
Also the benefits part of Mara and Cruz's relationship was already established at the beginning of the book. This made it feel incomplete, like you jumped into the middle of the series rather than the first book. Even if there was flashback introduction scene to really understand the hookup that started it all, that would have been better. Instead you get a vague mention of the beginning, and how they have been hooking up for weeks. All the roommates are in on it, and as the reader you don't feel "in" on it. Just not the writing style I'm used to with Tijan's books, and I honestly expected better. Almost felt lazy compared to her other books.
Drama was typical level that I expect from this author. Others might find it over the top, I just ended up not caring at that point. By the end of the book I just didn't like Mara and wasn't rooting for their relationship.
I think I'm done with Tijan books, they have been too hit and miss for me. I thought I'd enjoy this like I did Enemies, but it fell so flat.
Mara is "not like other girls" and every girl that sees or meets her is instantly jealous of her beautiful and just attacks her. Mara is just so tiny and petite but has ALL the right features she's always wanted. Every guy seems to just want Mara, not the other girls that are around.
Also the benefits part of Mara and Cruz's relationship was already established at the beginning of the book. This made it feel incomplete, like you jumped into the middle of the series rather than the first book. Even if there was flashback introduction scene to really understand the hookup that started it all, that would have been better. Instead you get a vague mention of the beginning, and how they have been hooking up for weeks. All the roommates are in on it, and as the reader you don't feel "in" on it. Just not the writing style I'm used to with Tijan's books, and I honestly expected better. Almost felt lazy compared to her other books.
Drama was typical level that I expect from this author. Others might find it over the top, I just ended up not caring at that point. By the end of the book I just didn't like Mara and wasn't rooting for their relationship.
I think I'm done with Tijan books, they have been too hit and miss for me. I thought I'd enjoy this like I did Enemies, but it fell so flat.
March 17, 2023
TRAINWRECK!!!! THIS BOOK IS A TRAINWRECK!!! i don’t think all y’all read the same book i did but they had no chemistry literally at all. he was so bland (ALSO bold move to name your male protagonist last name STYLES??? hello?? at least then make him live up to the name good lord) and she was wayyyy too im not like other girls ugh and it was so dramatic for literally nothing i skimmed so much of it to see if it would redeem itself and it did not this is not a good hockey romance do not waste your time peace and love
June 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this one! I love a little arrangement to lovers ordeal!!!
I liked the slowburn (love) but I will say it definitely reminded me of the books I read when I was like 14 on wattpad cause tell me why like all the guys were in love with her😃 she did give of similar vibes to 2010’s female main character but ya know what…i lived for the nostalgia of it.
I do feel like a lot happened but at the same time not much happened…if that even makes sense.
I felt like i read this just to read it because it felt like i was reading this one for ages even though is just above average in pages.
Overall I thought the storyline was good but maybe cruz just lacked a personality?
Mara’s story of healing and just her all together was the highlight of this book by far!
But i’m not going to lie this story is wild and not what i expected.
This one has big big big trigger warnings (SA + r*pe, self harm, s*icide child abuse, child neglect and child SA (these are only talked about not described…but is super triggering).
3.5/5⭐️ but a good 3.5⭐️
I liked the slowburn (love) but I will say it definitely reminded me of the books I read when I was like 14 on wattpad cause tell me why like all the guys were in love with her😃 she did give of similar vibes to 2010’s female main character but ya know what…i lived for the nostalgia of it.
I do feel like a lot happened but at the same time not much happened…if that even makes sense.
I felt like i read this just to read it because it felt like i was reading this one for ages even though is just above average in pages.
Overall I thought the storyline was good but maybe cruz just lacked a personality?
Mara’s story of healing and just her all together was the highlight of this book by far!
But i’m not going to lie this story is wild and not what i expected.
This one has big big big trigger warnings (SA + r*pe, self harm, s*icide child abuse, child neglect and child SA (these are only talked about not described…but is super triggering).
3.5/5⭐️ but a good 3.5⭐️
April 19, 2023
“People were precious and Mara, I was realizing how precious she was. Maybe more than she wanted to know.”
This was one of my most anticipated reads ever since I laid my eyes on this gorgeous book. But I was only expecting a 🥵 as sin hockey romance, with some nice plot and cute characters. Sure it had all that. However!!!!!! that’s not even a third of what this book’s about.
You don’t understand how powerful these pages were. How they absolutely wrecked me and rebuilt me. You don’t. But let me help you understand.
This book was about mental health. About walls we build so we can protect ourselves. How so many times in life we get what we get and not what we deserve. And somehow we have to find a way to cope, to deal, to survive.
This book is about the pain we carry, the pain we see others carrying, and what we choose to do with that. How life teaches us lessons we were no way near of being old enough to learn. How it spears nothing and no one. And yet, it also gives us so much if only we are willing to accept it.
Just, read this.
I also kept trying my best to guess at who stared at Crew/Fallen Crest. Now I can’t wait to read all of those 🥹 Where have you been Tijan? Why am I only now discovering you?!
What’s inside:
🖤sports romance
🖤college romance
🖤not-friends with benefits
🖤he falls first
🖤love through trauma
🖤found family
🖤stay with me
Adult. 5 stars ⭐️ all the stars.
This was one of my most anticipated reads ever since I laid my eyes on this gorgeous book. But I was only expecting a 🥵 as sin hockey romance, with some nice plot and cute characters. Sure it had all that. However!!!!!! that’s not even a third of what this book’s about.
You don’t understand how powerful these pages were. How they absolutely wrecked me and rebuilt me. You don’t. But let me help you understand.
This book was about mental health. About walls we build so we can protect ourselves. How so many times in life we get what we get and not what we deserve. And somehow we have to find a way to cope, to deal, to survive.
This book is about the pain we carry, the pain we see others carrying, and what we choose to do with that. How life teaches us lessons we were no way near of being old enough to learn. How it spears nothing and no one. And yet, it also gives us so much if only we are willing to accept it.
Just, read this.
I also kept trying my best to guess at who stared at Crew/Fallen Crest. Now I can’t wait to read all of those 🥹 Where have you been Tijan? Why am I only now discovering you?!
What’s inside:
🖤sports romance
🖤college romance
🖤not-friends with benefits
🖤he falls first
🖤love through trauma
🖤found family
🖤stay with me
Adult. 5 stars ⭐️ all the stars.
March 8, 2023
Hockey with Benefits is Tijan's newest standalone and she nails this college sports.
Cruz and Mara have a no-friends with benefits agreement that works for the both of them. It's just as unique as they are; these two are very complex characters in their own right.
I enjoyed getting to know them both as individuals and together as their agreement became more convoluted as the school semester moved along. These two definitely were hot between the sheets but as they let their walls crumble, they could see there was possibly more – but did either really want more?
These two plus their college roommates, friends and teammates rounded out this book so well. I enjoyed all the banter between everyone and could easily see each scene play out before me. While certain scenes were more emotional and heavier to go through, I found the lighter ones blended in perfectly to give this book a very well-rounded story.
Tijan delivers a very heavy plot that I will say could be triggering for some people. I loved that she kept it all real and authentic; no sugar coating from either side – just pure raw emotion. But at the same time, she gave us characters that we can easily relate to and would want as friends.
Another phenomenal story from Tijan.
Cruz and Mara have a no-friends with benefits agreement that works for the both of them. It's just as unique as they are; these two are very complex characters in their own right.
I enjoyed getting to know them both as individuals and together as their agreement became more convoluted as the school semester moved along. These two definitely were hot between the sheets but as they let their walls crumble, they could see there was possibly more – but did either really want more?
These two plus their college roommates, friends and teammates rounded out this book so well. I enjoyed all the banter between everyone and could easily see each scene play out before me. While certain scenes were more emotional and heavier to go through, I found the lighter ones blended in perfectly to give this book a very well-rounded story.
Tijan delivers a very heavy plot that I will say could be triggering for some people. I loved that she kept it all real and authentic; no sugar coating from either side – just pure raw emotion. But at the same time, she gave us characters that we can easily relate to and would want as friends.
Another phenomenal story from Tijan.
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