Rope A Dope

Soaring Bird #5

by Heidi Hutchinson

All Anika Armageddon wants in life is to hang out with cool people and to blow stuff up. As a professional stuntwoman, that doesn’t seem like a big ask. Her career is finally starting to take off, and everything she’s worked for is within her reach.

Steve Erikson has money, awesome friends, and no ambition. Nothing is missing in his life. He’s content to be the guy no one takes seriously, always ready with an inappropriate comment or two.

Anika and Steve begin a friendship rooted in a similar sense of humor and an even greater love for food.

When separate circumstances in their lives force them to reevaluate their futures, they find the perfect solution is to just marry one another. For business reasons.

Steve may not exactly feel like he’s marriage material, but he promises to be the best partner he can be to his new wife, and she promises the same. It doesn’t take long for Steve to realize maybe his life had been missing something all along.

They’re the perfect team.
They’ve prepared for every scenario.
Problem is, they never discussed what to do if he accidentally falls in love with her.

ROPE A DOPE is a full length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. It is book #4 in the Soaring Bird series by Heidi Hutchinson
Rated R for language and adult scenes (open door)

Genres: Romance

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2023

About the author

Heidi Hutchinson writes slow burn rock star romances for contemporary readers who like humor with their hotties. She has both open and closed door series filled with relatable characters and swooney yumminess. Double Blind Study, her go-to series, is closed door and follows a band in emotional turmoil and the women who love them.

When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.

She’s fueled by messages from her readers and too much coffee.
And a whole lotta love.
Visit her website or social media for upcoming releases!

heidih.net
Email: heidih.writer@gmail.com



IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: In Between the Earth and Sky
Book 2: Love of a Wild Thing (TBD)
Book 4: TBA

DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Learn to Fly
Book 2: In Your Honor
Book 3: Tectonic
Book 4: Deepest Blues
Book 5: The Hope That Starts
Book 6: Brand New Sky
Book 7: Into the Night We Shine (Bonus Novella)
Book 8: Born to Resist (Bonus Novella- in progress)
Book 9: Matter of Fact (holiday novella)

DOUBLE BLIND STUDY WORLD CROSSOVER
Things That Shine (written with Bria Quinlan)

SOARING BIRD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Like the Back of My Halo
Book 2: Sushi and Sun Salutations
Book 3: Puppy Love and Peanut Butter
Book 4: Rope a Dope
Book 5: Caught a Vibe (May 2024)
Book 6: TBA

IN COLD MUD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Stubborn Hearts (prequel to DBS book 6 Brand New Sky)
Book 2:


THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.

THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.

THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free.

IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.

NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study series. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.

Reviews

[Lori R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved, loved, loved this story so much!
Steve is my new favorite.

This book is a perfect example of a well-written, makes-my-heart-flutter-with-happiness and gives-me-all-the-smiles story. And it’s exactly the reason I love to read romance.

Because I love Heidi’s words so much, I couldn’t wait to start reading Rope a Dope. And I’m not surprised by how easily and quickly I was pulled in. Heidi always creates the most lovable characters who will grab a hold of your heart, crawl inside, and own it. Steve and Anika did that to me.

Steve…*sigh*…where do I start? This guy is pretty much perfect. He’s like a warm fuzzy blanket wrapped around you on a cold night. He’s all sorts of irresistible. And freakin’ adorable. And the biggest sexiest goof ever with a heart of gold.

Anika (rhymes with Monica) is quite the badass. Seriously. She’s a stuntwoman. She kicks ass, takes names, yet still has her vulnerabilities and insecurities that make me want to give her a big bear hug. And I would throw down for her in a heartbeat. Do I have a bit of a girl crush? Probably.

The chemistry between Steve and Anika was strong, the sexual tension through the roof. Their interactions were absolutely adorable and the way Steve could make her smile and laugh…and feel crazy happy about doing it…was heartwarming and beautiful and put those little hearts in my eyes. Steve is SO GOOD in all the ways.

I finished this book days ago and my heart is still reeling. I find I’m not able to stop thinking about Steve, and I’m okay with that. I am ridiculously happy and my heart is full.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

STEEEEEEEVE! I love him so very much! He just so… so…. Steve! There are no other words to describe him😂 He has been popping in and stealing the show in all the other but now it’s finally his time to shine.

Anika was just as awesome and perfect for Steve. Their story was just the cutest thing ever. They are the perfect team.

The timing of this release is perfect. You can take it on vacation and swoon and snort laugh as you soak up some sun!

I was given an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review

[Laurajoyl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please read this book, you will love it!!

Heidi always writes characters you want to hang out with and this may be my favorite so far. When we first met Steve, I didn’t know if I loved or hated him. He was like a pesky little brother who said VERY inappropriate things. After this book, I love him. The depth of his character and the layers he shows, all while still being “Steve” is amazing. And Anika, sigh, she is the best. Together, they make each better and honestly bring about the best in each other. Amazing book- like always!!

ARC in exchange for honest review.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've got to say that this pairing is definitely in my top five couples from Heidi. Maybe even top 3!

This story is a perfectly balanced romance, with spice, humour and emotion weaving together elegantly.

I love Steve's quirks, which act as a direct counterpoint to Anika's insecurities. Together they make each other just, more, and that's what pulls me in to the book.

Definitely one to lose yourself in.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[giftgirlreadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Format - EARC

Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Spice- 🌶 (this gives me great pleasure)

Series- Soaring Bird Book #5

Troupes- Friends to lovers, marriage of convince, only one bed,

CW-

Every time I read Heidi Hutchinson I get that warm fuzzy feeling, her writing to me is a shot of serotonin mixed with THC. I’m happy and calm and ready for whatever she wants to throw at me! This is the first I’m reading in her Soaring Bird series and I can safely say that it stands alone just fine. I will however probably be reading the others in the series even if they are closed door.

Lets talk about that for a second. Heidi has taken a very courageous and honestly huge step in her writing career, opening the door to the sexy parts of her books and I am beyond happy and proud of her. If you’ve been following me for a bit you know I am a spicy reader I like my sex scene, routinely rating them and talking about them. Heidi has written a very thoughtful and insightful note for this book and its also up on her author page. I love the thought and consideration she has put into this change to her writing and again I an not cheer her on enough.

Now let’s talk about Steve (BTW more MMC need to be named STEVE and not just cause it was my Wonderful Daddy’s name) and Anika. If you’ve read the Soaring Bird Series then you know Steve but if you, like me, haven’t then he was a huge and awesome surprise of a cinnamon roll golden retriever hero who I for one just wanted to climb on the back of and never let go. The way he idolized and then fell for Anika is all I want in my someday romantic partner.

Anika is about as badass a FMC as you can ask for. A freaking Stunt woman who jumps off a buildings, falls down stairs and drives a car like its child’s play all while horning her craft and caring the people she loves. I adore both of these characters more then I should for fictional people and am immensely sad they only exist in Heidi’s head and now this awesome friggin book!

The banter in and out of the bedroom and the stuff of magic and the Spice is perfection for these two dummies when it comes time. Which means that this is a Sloooow burn and very happy ending for all involved.

I’m so excited to be reading more of Heidi’s wonderful storytelling outside of the SPRU and cannot wait to see what she gives us next!

Thank you Heidi for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review, all my glowing and pride infused opinions are my own.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I swear I say every time, “I love this book Heidi wrote, more than the last. “ Yet, here I am like a big dope with a smile on my face. I was out loud laughing and enjoying such a real fictional romance. One thing I love about Heidi’s writing is the realness of her characters.

Rope A Dope is genuinely not what I was expecting. I already loved Steve from her previous books. He is the loyal and goofy character we all love to see in the background. This was better than I expected. He’s thoughtful, endearing, and sweet. Not to mention he is a gorgeous surfer. Anika is the total bad ass stunt woman. She’s beautiful and incredibly talented. I’ve read lately how some men can make a woman settle into her feminine energy. Anika would appear to vibe and operate in masculine energy to most. Honestly, I thought all the description of masculine versus feminine energy was just ridiculous. But this story changed my mind. Heidi takes characters and makes them better when they are paired with their love interest. Anika is a squishy marshmallow when Steve slowly enters her life. It was soooo unexpected and lovely. I love how Heidi write characters that aren’t your traditional woman. Anika is the bad ass kind of character you want to be friends with. I Love everything about Rope a Dope. Trust me when I say it’s worth the read.

This is an ARC review

[D.V. Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was SOO good. Loved the characters, loved the comedy. I loved how they connected, and I even loved the 3rd act break up. The way they got back together tugged so hard on my heart. I will definitely be reading more from Heidi.

[Julie Berryman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Double Blind guys, i love the Soaring Bird guys, but seriously LOVE LOVE LOVE Steve. He has always been the goofy guy on the side but getting to see him from his viewpoint, he’s my fave. He’s silly and hilarious, but he sees what people need and provides that whenever he can. He is a beautiful person. I’m so happy he had his story told. And Anika, i wish i could be like her 🧡🧡
Very well written, so captivating, i couldn't put it down.

[Vonnielynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heidi has gone and done it again…laugh and cry and oddly enough try my hand at being a stunt woman. Well maybe not that but Rope A Dope was absolutely fantastic. I finished this book a week ago and kept thinking about it this week until I could kind of put into words how awesome and touching it was. Steve and Anika are some of the best characters, I loved reading their story and I was honestly bummed that it was over. I absolutely loved this one and hope we see more Steve and Anika in the future!

[Asma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rope a Dope takes readers on a thrilling journey that reveals a whole new side of Steve, the character we thought we knew. It's impossible not to be captivated by the new Steve we got to meet during his adventure with Halo. Gone are the days of his douchey, "I care less" attitude, his flirtatious ways, and his womanizing tendencies. Instead, we're introduced to a deeply compassionate and selfless individual, with a heart that knows no bounds.

But Steve isn't the only standout in this book. Anika, his other half, shines just as brightly. She joins the ranks of the badass women in the Soaring Bird Band, adding her own unique strength and tenacity to the group. Together, Steve and Anika create a formidable duo, showing us the power of partnership and the hilarious life two funny people can build.

Heidi Hutchinson has crafted a story that delves into the depths of character development, taking us on an emotional rollercoaster ride. Rope a Dope demonstrates that people can surprise us in the most unexpected ways. It reminds us that beneath the surface, there may be untapped potential and hidden depths waiting to be discovered.

Prepare to be swept away by the captivating world of Soaring Bird and its unforgettable characters. Rope a Dope is a must-read for fans of the series, delivering a fresh perspective and leaving us eagerly anticipating what's to come.

[Rachel Decruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in a day. Yes, it was that good. It is Anika who makes this book really special. Her grit, honesty, and deep sense of self-worth is inspirational. The chemistry between Anika and Steve is incendiary from the very first chapter. I had not expected to like Steve's book but in Rope A Dope he sneaks up on the reader and takes them captive in true 'Steve' fashion. This story is very gentle and Anika and Steve's story unfurls slowly like the petals of an exotic flower fueled by good pizza and the joys of friendship. Definitely the mid-year book that you have been waiting for. Heidi Hutchinson is the queen of discussing difficult life issues, and this book is no different. Like the rest of the Soaring Bird series, it makes you reflect on what it means to call someone your family.

[Kimberly Stamiti · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing genius that is Heidi Hutchinson magically spins straw into gold in Rope a Dope, Book 4 in the Soaring Bird series.This story is full of all the good stuff I love about Heidi's books plus some new naughty bits,  too!

I'm so in love with surf shop Steve and seriously want Anika with all her bad ass vulnerability to be my new bff! Throw in some steam, fake relationship, slow burn angsty friends to lovers tropes, add video games, Kevin the narcissist, kids who say" Auntika" and all the Soaring Bird peeps from other books in the series and it's like taking an awesome SoCal vacation with best buds!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

I loved that Nika and Steve were not your typical main characters. Steve doesn't really have a job. He surfs, helps out his friends at their surf/skate shop. He's rich so he doesn't really need a job, but he doesn't feel patios ate about anything either. Anika is a badass stunt woman. They like to play video games. I love Steve love for Anika right from the beginning. He's in awe of her to the point where he can't even talk to her. I love how their friendship grew into more. I loved getting to know them better. I loved the sweet and the awkward. I can't wait to go back and read about the rest of the characters.

[Ray Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book! Anika and Steve were the definition of couple goals! Seeing how their friendship grew and then morphed into a romantic love was just…I swooned. I loved reading about Anika, her strong, kick ass personality and then seeing her vulnerable underbelly. ❤️ And Steve! Steve is such a fun, surfer dude who just really wants to care for those around him. All the tiny ways he showed how much he cared for Anika had me kicking and squealing! (Sometimes literally.) They were just the cutest couple. Pair that with great writing and this story was a perfect read! Loved it!!!

[Lindsay Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friends to Lovers at its best

Giving off nerd vibes with his initial inability to act normally around the girl who caught his attention (Anika), Steve had me rooting for him from the beginning. I loved watching him move past that and grow his relationship with her becoming best friends then more. As one character pointed out, “Love is the easy part. But love isn’t enough. Respect, honesty, loyalty, wholeness, friendship, all of those things are what make a healthy relationship.” The journey was gradual, but well worth it, leaving me with a giant smile on my face.

[Brenda Beasley Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. I really love Steve and Anika and their adventure falling in love AFTER their wedding ❤️😎👍🏻 What’s not to love about Steve!? And here we thought he was just a shiftless surfer boy hanging out in the background. What’s not to love about Anika?! Baddest of the badass Hollywood stunt people. Superhero material.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful! My new favorite in the series!

Finally! Steve (Steve! <3) gets his well-deserved HEA, and I'm here for all of it! Annika is the perfect shero for this loveable, amazing, big-hearted doofus. These two are just… *le sigh* *le swoon* *chef's kiss*

[Maria Elena]

Full review to come…

[D. Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved loved loved!

This book was larger than I expected but I adored every minute of it. I had no idea what I was getting into because it was recommended to me - I went in blind - but I think everything that surprised me about the book was so tastefully done that I kept flipping to the next page, even when I had things to do. I loved the marriage of convenience and I absolutely loved how it ended. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a cute, funny, and happily-ever-after read.

[Lu]

✨ 3.5 stars! ✨

Going back to the Soaring Bird world and reconnecting with its characters after all this time was so cool! And with Steve as a main character! I loved him in the previous books and adored him in this one as well. He’s the same old Steve we know and love but we get to see inside his head and know a bit more about his past and he doesn’t disappoint one bit. I also love how Anika sees him for who he is and loves every single part of him. And speaking about Anika, I found her family situation and how she felt about it very relatable.

Seeing the rest of the gang, how much they love Steve and how they welcome Anika into the flock was awesome. And hello, Adam! Seriously, I loved him in this book. I think he was the character we knew the least about, but we get a taste of him in this book and I want more! 😍

There were parts of the story in which the flow and the pace threw me off a bit, but I really enjoyed the character interactions, some really insightful thoughts and conversations and, of course, STEVE!

I can’t wait to read the next one!

*I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Word. I didn't realize how much I missed the characters in the Soaring Bird series until I opened Rope a Dope. The antics of the friend group had me smiling days after I finished this book. Steve has had a thing for Anika since like what seems forever for him.

It was so cute to see a male character as the crusher for a change. Steve's actions had me giggling. Was I like this in high school? Steve was definitely experiencing the reactions of high school girls as the popular guy walks by. He made Anika uncomfortable, confused. She didn't understand his aloofness, his strange reactions.

She had become a member of the group but still on the sidelines. She didn't quite fit in. He made her feel awkward. Forced proximity was the pivotal moment. The change left me gooey. Watching Steve blossom had me jealous for my own Steve.

Reading their story of love gives me hope for us, the real people. Anika's struggles with love made the happily ever after even more delicious.

[Calinka · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much to love about this book! I love how emotionally complex Anika was. I love how patient and understanding Steve was. I love how friendship and mutual respect turned into love. I love how soothing to the soul this book felt. The only thing that I didn’t love was the reasons they decided to get married. The reasons were not logical or urgent, requiring such a dramatic response as marrying someone you are just getting to know.