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The Kings of Kroydon Hills #3
Always Earned, Never Given
Learning how to fly stole my childhood,
and accomplishing my dreams took my parents.
After my parents’ death, taking care of my little brother and running my dance studio are the only things I’ve got time for in my hectic life.
Until Declan Sinclair.
As the number one draft pick for the Philadelphia Kings,
he’s not afraid of putting in a little hard work to get what he wants.
And he wants me.
I don’t know if my heart can survive falling in love.
All the best games are won in inches, not yards, and I’m gonna earn this win inch by inch.
I’ve spent my life working toward one goal.
Playing professional football.
Until Annabelle Hart.
She’s fierce, loyal, and the strongest woman I’ve ever met.
I knew she was meant to be mine the first time I saw her.
But knowing that and making it happen are two very different things.
Will this beautiful ballerina let me earn her love?
and accomplishing my dreams took my parents.
After my parents’ death, taking care of my little brother and running my dance studio are the only things I’ve got time for in my hectic life.
Until Declan Sinclair.
As the number one draft pick for the Philadelphia Kings,
he’s not afraid of putting in a little hard work to get what he wants.
And he wants me.
I don’t know if my heart can survive falling in love.
All the best games are won in inches, not yards, and I’m gonna earn this win inch by inch.
I’ve spent my life working toward one goal.
Playing professional football.
Until Annabelle Hart.
She’s fierce, loyal, and the strongest woman I’ve ever met.
I knew she was meant to be mine the first time I saw her.
But knowing that and making it happen are two very different things.
Will this beautiful ballerina let me earn her love?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2021
749 people are currently reading
1850 people want to read
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July 11, 2021
5 "Ballerina & Baller" Stars⭐
Always Earned, Never Given is a Heart-Breakingly beautiful, Steamy friends-to-lovers Sports romance with Laughs, Fun, Swoons, Heartwarm, Love so deep, cute surprises, Suspense & some action! *Ooh!*
I love this World, Friends' group (& family) so much❤. This story was much awaited by me & is so enchanting. DEVOURED this in 7hrs!
Annabelle Hart; Caring, Responsible, Takes-no-shit; is the owner of ‘Hart & Soul’ dance studio (Where Nat works). She was a professional ballerina before her parents died in an accident, since then her little brother Tommy (who also has autism) & her studio are her whole life. She's been a fixture here, She & her brother a lovely addition to this friends' circle!
Declan Sinclair; Charming, Reliable, Down-To-Earth; is a Great professional footballer in Philadelphia Kings (coincidentally the same team his dad coaches) & Values privacy. He's the eldest bro to Nat & Cooper. When Dec loves, he does it with his whole heart!
"...This man who is a contradiction in confidence and self-consciousness. Cockiness and modesty."
––The start (1/3 rd) of this story runs chronologically with the events of "More Than A Game". Same Incidents, Different perspective & view!––
From the moment D+A met, Sparks fly. Gazes collide whenever they meet afterwards. But nothing happens due to their busy lives...Until Dec asks her to be his date in the Senator's Fundraiser! It's the push they both needed, Precursor to a sweet friendship & a hot One-night-stand. A One-night-Only that leads to forever!
~Past & Present, Family, Work, Private, Favor, Group text, Fun Visits, Date & Close, Only one night, Just Friends, THAT accident, Hot photos, Worth the fight...
Dec wants more. He can see'em (with her brother, Dec's so sweet!) as a family. But she's cautious, Most days she gets no relaxing time, How will she fit a relationship in? Just Friends she says; But as days pass, Dec becomes a daily part of her life... A Habit. Stable. Besties. So much more. He breaks her walls & Earns her heart!
~Dinner nights, Take initiative, meets & routine, Awkward & Alone, Sexy times, Time to fly, Together & Won, Free & Falling, Swoons, Thanksgiving fam, Interview, I love yous, Proposal...
All In. D+A are mature, so their story is also mature & a breath of fresh air. Through thick & thin, away games, media circus & few bumps... Their friendship, honesty & vulnerability make a strong foundation; They're eachother's rock. Plus their sexy times are hella HOT🔥🔥. We also get the usual fun (Their friends/families are happy with'em being together!). D+A's relationship progresses nicely–With a Heartfelt Love, A swoony marriage *Fan-girling* & Surprise twin babies *Omg!😍*.
But throughout the story, someone was targeting Anna & her studio...How? Why? It gave this crew & me quite the scares. And before D+A get their HEA, we get a Heart-pounding finale...Which wraps it all up nicely (& makes me eager for the next few books)!
~Studio scare, Sporty, Offed, Care, Babe news 💝, Family, Sweet talks & Truths, Marriage *Yay!*, Friends & Christmas, Heart-race, Showdown, Bullets & Hospital, Safe, Beloved well, HEA!
I love Annabelle & Declan so much! This story's Well-Written & The ending+epilogue are beautiful. #MustRead
__Other Musings__
Its fun how we (& their friends/family) predicted D+A being a couple & were right! The text chats & Cooper's cameos are awesome! Apart from the previous books' couple (Brady+Nat, Murphy+Sabrina), I'm happy for the older couple–Joe & Katherine too! Yup, there's sub plots here, so fun!
Getting 1 chapter from Sebastian's PoV was a nice touch, As he, his brother & Anna's new friend Amelia are such an integral role of the Showdown (#NoSpoilers 😜). I'm so excited for what Bella plans for next! #GiveMeBash
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
Always Earned, Never Given is a Heart-Breakingly beautiful, Steamy friends-to-lovers Sports romance with Laughs, Fun, Swoons, Heartwarm, Love so deep, cute surprises, Suspense & some action! *Ooh!*
I love this World, Friends' group (& family) so much❤. This story was much awaited by me & is so enchanting. DEVOURED this in 7hrs!
Annabelle Hart; Caring, Responsible, Takes-no-shit; is the owner of ‘Hart & Soul’ dance studio (Where Nat works). She was a professional ballerina before her parents died in an accident, since then her little brother Tommy (who also has autism) & her studio are her whole life. She's been a fixture here, She & her brother a lovely addition to this friends' circle!
Declan Sinclair; Charming, Reliable, Down-To-Earth; is a Great professional footballer in Philadelphia Kings (coincidentally the same team his dad coaches) & Values privacy. He's the eldest bro to Nat & Cooper. When Dec loves, he does it with his whole heart!
"...This man who is a contradiction in confidence and self-consciousness. Cockiness and modesty."
––The start (1/3 rd) of this story runs chronologically with the events of "More Than A Game". Same Incidents, Different perspective & view!––
From the moment D+A met, Sparks fly. Gazes collide whenever they meet afterwards. But nothing happens due to their busy lives...Until Dec asks her to be his date in the Senator's Fundraiser! It's the push they both needed, Precursor to a sweet friendship & a hot One-night-stand. A One-night-Only that leads to forever!
~Past & Present, Family, Work, Private, Favor, Group text, Fun Visits, Date & Close, Only one night, Just Friends, THAT accident, Hot photos, Worth the fight...
Dec wants more. He can see'em (with her brother, Dec's so sweet!) as a family. But she's cautious, Most days she gets no relaxing time, How will she fit a relationship in? Just Friends she says; But as days pass, Dec becomes a daily part of her life... A Habit. Stable. Besties. So much more. He breaks her walls & Earns her heart!
~Dinner nights, Take initiative, meets & routine, Awkward & Alone, Sexy times, Time to fly, Together & Won, Free & Falling, Swoons, Thanksgiving fam, Interview, I love yous, Proposal...
All In. D+A are mature, so their story is also mature & a breath of fresh air. Through thick & thin, away games, media circus & few bumps... Their friendship, honesty & vulnerability make a strong foundation; They're eachother's rock. Plus their sexy times are hella HOT🔥🔥. We also get the usual fun (Their friends/families are happy with'em being together!). D+A's relationship progresses nicely–With a Heartfelt Love, A swoony marriage *Fan-girling* & Surprise twin babies *Omg!😍*.
But throughout the story, someone was targeting Anna & her studio...How? Why? It gave this crew & me quite the scares. And before D+A get their HEA, we get a Heart-pounding finale...Which wraps it all up nicely (& makes me eager for the next few books)!
~Studio scare, Sporty, Offed, Care, Babe news 💝, Family, Sweet talks & Truths, Marriage *Yay!*, Friends & Christmas, Heart-race, Showdown, Bullets & Hospital, Safe, Beloved well, HEA!
I love Annabelle & Declan so much! This story's Well-Written & The ending+epilogue are beautiful. #MustRead
__Other Musings__
Its fun how we (& their friends/family) predicted D+A being a couple & were right! The text chats & Cooper's cameos are awesome! Apart from the previous books' couple (Brady+Nat, Murphy+Sabrina), I'm happy for the older couple–Joe & Katherine too! Yup, there's sub plots here, so fun!
Getting 1 chapter from Sebastian's PoV was a nice touch, As he, his brother & Anna's new friend Amelia are such an integral role of the Showdown (#NoSpoilers 😜). I'm so excited for what Bella plans for next! #GiveMeBash
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
November 14, 2021
Let me just take a moment to give a huge shout out to Bella Matthews and the third amazing story in this fabulous series!!
Bells and Decs story is epic. They're the elder 'kids' of the Kroyden hills crowd and yet that does not take away from their story...
Heartbreakingly beautiful this story brings together hard subjects, provides real insight into the life of a sister turned guardian and casts a light on what it could be like to be a professional ball player who loves the sport but not the limelight
Belles is a tough cookie to crack and yet Declan Sinclair wants her on sight..shes already became part of his family...but he wants her for himself too...only one thing stands in his way...Annabelle herself. Can he convince her to let him in....
Follow their journey into the unknown and untested with Matthews usual confident but not arrogant football players, the same whitty banter and comraderie amongst the friends / family, the hilarious one liners and the beautiful awwww moments. Plus introducing new or less talked about characters to make you want more...
The story provides a soothing escape, a fabulous romance and an intense undercurrent you cannot help but become addicted to...be prepared to laugh, cry and fall in love all over again (and not just with Bells and Dec, with little Tommy too)
I cannot wait to read this one again and again...
This book is unique and takes its rightful place in the kingdom of Kroyden.
Bells and Decs story is epic. They're the elder 'kids' of the Kroyden hills crowd and yet that does not take away from their story...
Heartbreakingly beautiful this story brings together hard subjects, provides real insight into the life of a sister turned guardian and casts a light on what it could be like to be a professional ball player who loves the sport but not the limelight
Belles is a tough cookie to crack and yet Declan Sinclair wants her on sight..shes already became part of his family...but he wants her for himself too...only one thing stands in his way...Annabelle herself. Can he convince her to let him in....
Follow their journey into the unknown and untested with Matthews usual confident but not arrogant football players, the same whitty banter and comraderie amongst the friends / family, the hilarious one liners and the beautiful awwww moments. Plus introducing new or less talked about characters to make you want more...
The story provides a soothing escape, a fabulous romance and an intense undercurrent you cannot help but become addicted to...be prepared to laugh, cry and fall in love all over again (and not just with Bells and Dec, with little Tommy too)
I cannot wait to read this one again and again...
This book is unique and takes its rightful place in the kingdom of Kroyden.
January 11, 2024
At 21 years old Annabelle finds her world flipped upside down and as the sole caretaker for 8 year old brother, Tommy, who has autism. She walks away from her dream as a ballet dancer to take care of him in their home town of Kroyden Hills. She opens her own dance studio where she hires Natalie to be a teacher (All In). In hiring Natalie she is swept up into the Sinclair family which means when Declan Sinclair is drafted to play for the Kings he comes home to Kroyden as well. One look at Annabelle and he knows he is hooked for life. He just needs to convince her that he is all in and will earn her heart one inch at a time.
This book broke me. I have read each book by Bella and she just keeps getting better and better with each one. I have loved each and everyone book and am loving watch her grow as an author. I am loving this series so freaking much. And Declan . . . oh man Declan owned me and I am not sure how she can top him but I cannot wait to see her try. Declan and Belle's story was one of the sweetest stories I have read in awhile. These two consumed me, I could feel their love pouring off the pages. And the way that Declan loved Tommy just as much as Belle . . . I was done. But, Always Earned, Never Given is about so much more than just Declan and Belle. It was about family and friends and friends that are family and will always be family. The way the Sinclair's loved Belle and told Declan to check himself (his own family!), awe man, did that bring me to tears. I adored that we got to see all of the Kings in this book and it felt so organic for them to be there. It wasn't a forced cameo from any of them. They all belonged and played a role in Declan and Belle's story. This book broke me and owned me. I did not want to move on from it at all.
This book broke me. I have read each book by Bella and she just keeps getting better and better with each one. I have loved each and everyone book and am loving watch her grow as an author. I am loving this series so freaking much. And Declan . . . oh man Declan owned me and I am not sure how she can top him but I cannot wait to see her try. Declan and Belle's story was one of the sweetest stories I have read in awhile. These two consumed me, I could feel their love pouring off the pages. And the way that Declan loved Tommy just as much as Belle . . . I was done. But, Always Earned, Never Given is about so much more than just Declan and Belle. It was about family and friends and friends that are family and will always be family. The way the Sinclair's loved Belle and told Declan to check himself (his own family!), awe man, did that bring me to tears. I adored that we got to see all of the Kings in this book and it felt so organic for them to be there. It wasn't a forced cameo from any of them. They all belonged and played a role in Declan and Belle's story. This book broke me and owned me. I did not want to move on from it at all.
June 14, 2021
Declan Sinclaire, Star QB of Philadelphia Kings and Annabelle Hart, beautiful ballerina, what a match made in heaven.
Dec was just so sweet! So much sweeter than I could have ever imagined. Yes he is the rugged and sexy football star, but he's also the determined and adoring man who knows what he wants, and is willing to part seas and wait a lifetime if he needed too. BRB still not finished crying over the lack of Dec in my life 😩
And Belle! How do even describe someone as complex as her? She's guarded, quite rightly too, scared but doesn't let it show on the outside, she's brave, strong, independent. We know she's had such a rough ride in life and I think we all feel protective over her, but if there's one person who we don't need to threaten around our girl, it's Dec.
Their story is so beautiful. It's heart-warming, emotional, it's got the perfect balance of parts that made me howl with laughter and parts that reduced me to tears because I was so up in my feelings!
Not only this, we had twists and turns that I didnt even see coming, you know when you're so invested in a book you swear your neighbours can hear you exclaiming "OH DAMN", yeah that was me!
There is so much I wish I could/want to say but you're getting no spoilers from me! You've got time to read the first two books in the King's of Kroydon Hills Series, although each can be read as a standalone, but why wouldn't you go fall head of heels for Brady Ryan and Aiden Murphy whilst you've got some waiting time? 😏
Just a real quick shout out to the boys who still hold a very special place in my heart, Brady, Bash, Coop and my baby boy Murphy 😍 I love how involved in the story they were, they carried on the traits we love them for and I loved the crossovers between the previous two books, you get a real sense of time and place and it's just perfection too be able to see the parts in a 360° perspective.
Bella, you absolute Queen! You've outdone yourself with this one, every single aspect is perfection! ❤
Dec was just so sweet! So much sweeter than I could have ever imagined. Yes he is the rugged and sexy football star, but he's also the determined and adoring man who knows what he wants, and is willing to part seas and wait a lifetime if he needed too. BRB still not finished crying over the lack of Dec in my life 😩
And Belle! How do even describe someone as complex as her? She's guarded, quite rightly too, scared but doesn't let it show on the outside, she's brave, strong, independent. We know she's had such a rough ride in life and I think we all feel protective over her, but if there's one person who we don't need to threaten around our girl, it's Dec.
Their story is so beautiful. It's heart-warming, emotional, it's got the perfect balance of parts that made me howl with laughter and parts that reduced me to tears because I was so up in my feelings!
Not only this, we had twists and turns that I didnt even see coming, you know when you're so invested in a book you swear your neighbours can hear you exclaiming "OH DAMN", yeah that was me!
There is so much I wish I could/want to say but you're getting no spoilers from me! You've got time to read the first two books in the King's of Kroydon Hills Series, although each can be read as a standalone, but why wouldn't you go fall head of heels for Brady Ryan and Aiden Murphy whilst you've got some waiting time? 😏
Just a real quick shout out to the boys who still hold a very special place in my heart, Brady, Bash, Coop and my baby boy Murphy 😍 I love how involved in the story they were, they carried on the traits we love them for and I loved the crossovers between the previous two books, you get a real sense of time and place and it's just perfection too be able to see the parts in a 360° perspective.
Bella, you absolute Queen! You've outdone yourself with this one, every single aspect is perfection! ❤
September 9, 2022
This sports romance will make you want to stand up and cheer! Swoony, sweet, confident and oh so hot, Declan will steal your heart and run away with it! Equally impressive, Annabelle is a beautiful soul who dazzles and shines so brightly in the face of adversity. The Kroydon Hills gang, along with the beyond adorable character Tommy, had me laughing out loud and enjoying every second of this story! Five stars, this book is a winner!
June 23, 2021
I seriously cant get enough of these Kings of Kroydon Hill books. These guys certainly tug at your heartstrings and Declan's book is no different. He seems to appear much older than his years in his attitude and his dependability especially with Annabelle. Whereas Annabelle has had to grow up quickly when her parents died and she became the parental figure in her brother Tommy's life. Oh my goodness is Tommy is an absolute sweetheart who has no filter what so ever. Which was funny at times. As was the group texts. They just cracked me up!! Declan and Annabelle's relationship was so lovely. Declan stepped up so much in this book and it was endearing. I loved this book a great deal as well as the other books in this series. They are all brilliant reads and im looking forward to the next one now
December 23, 2023
Bella Matthews takes us back to Kroydon Hills for a sports romance story that has the perfect blend of sweet, swoon, steam, angst, humour, family, friendships, and love.
The starting QB for the Philadelphia Kings, Declan Sinclair has wanted the beautiful ballerina Annabelle Hart from the moment he met her.
However, Belle, a business owner, and parent for her younger brother is simply trying to survive day by day. She doesn't have the time for a relationship even if the man is sexy AF and the chemistry between them is sizzling.
But....
Look out Belle do you really think Declan stay on his side of the fifty-yard line? Or will he earn your love inch by inch?
As I adored and devoured this emotional and heartwarming story, I swooned, I smiled, I gasped, I cheered, I experienced happy tears, and at times I laughed ridiculously loud.
As always the secondary characters are amazing and beyond loveable. I mean hello the hilarious Murphy, and oh my!! we meet again Daddy Sinclair.
The crossover with the previous books not only took me on a trip down memory lane but it gave me a whole new perspective on heartwarming and heartbreaking events. And the subtle building of future stories has me excited for what's to come and desperate for Book 4.
A Highly Recommended Read!
The starting QB for the Philadelphia Kings, Declan Sinclair has wanted the beautiful ballerina Annabelle Hart from the moment he met her.
However, Belle, a business owner, and parent for her younger brother is simply trying to survive day by day. She doesn't have the time for a relationship even if the man is sexy AF and the chemistry between them is sizzling.
But....
Look out Belle do you really think Declan stay on his side of the fifty-yard line? Or will he earn your love inch by inch?
As I adored and devoured this emotional and heartwarming story, I swooned, I smiled, I gasped, I cheered, I experienced happy tears, and at times I laughed ridiculously loud.
As always the secondary characters are amazing and beyond loveable. I mean hello the hilarious Murphy, and oh my!! we meet again Daddy Sinclair.
The crossover with the previous books not only took me on a trip down memory lane but it gave me a whole new perspective on heartwarming and heartbreaking events. And the subtle building of future stories has me excited for what's to come and desperate for Book 4.
A Highly Recommended Read!
June 24, 2021
I knew Belle and Declan's story would be special, and Always Earned, Never Given didn't disappoint! It's one of my top romance reads for 2021.
The baller and the ballerina ... Declan sets his sights on Belle from their first meeting. He quickly figures out Belle won't fall in love with him easily or fast. After the death of her parents, Belle thinks she only has room in her life for her younger brother, Tommy, and her dance studio. Football is a game of inches, and Declan will have to show Belle inch by inch that she is his endgame.
Declan is the ideal book boyfriend! This football star is patient, cocky but not arrogant, alpha but not overbearing, protective, and genuinely nice. I loved the way he immediately recognizes that Belle and Tommy are a package deal. He establishes a separate and distinct relationship with Tommy. Their relationship is heartwarming.
I liked that Belle and Declan are equals. As a former elite ballerina, she understands the media pressure that Declan is under and how hard he must work to stay on top. Declan knows that Belle needs a partner that can help lighten her load, and he's determined to help her in any way that he can.
This group of found family in this series continues to be a favorite. Belle considers all of the ladies part of her tribe, and they are there for her. They push her to see beyond her comfort zone and encourage her to take a risk on Declan. The Kings of Kroydon have each others' backs, and the joking banter between them always makes me laugh (those text conversations!).
While reading Always Earned, Never Given, I had a constant smile on my face, laughed out loud several times, and was just touched by the specialness of Belle and Declan. I'm looking forward to reading Bash's book next!!! The Kings of Kroydon Hills world is a great place to visit and never fails to put me in a good mood.
"She doesn't realize all the best games are won in inches, not yards, and I'm gonna earn this win inch by inch."
The baller and the ballerina ... Declan sets his sights on Belle from their first meeting. He quickly figures out Belle won't fall in love with him easily or fast. After the death of her parents, Belle thinks she only has room in her life for her younger brother, Tommy, and her dance studio. Football is a game of inches, and Declan will have to show Belle inch by inch that she is his endgame.
Declan is the ideal book boyfriend! This football star is patient, cocky but not arrogant, alpha but not overbearing, protective, and genuinely nice. I loved the way he immediately recognizes that Belle and Tommy are a package deal. He establishes a separate and distinct relationship with Tommy. Their relationship is heartwarming.
I liked that Belle and Declan are equals. As a former elite ballerina, she understands the media pressure that Declan is under and how hard he must work to stay on top. Declan knows that Belle needs a partner that can help lighten her load, and he's determined to help her in any way that he can.
This group of found family in this series continues to be a favorite. Belle considers all of the ladies part of her tribe, and they are there for her. They push her to see beyond her comfort zone and encourage her to take a risk on Declan. The Kings of Kroydon have each others' backs, and the joking banter between them always makes me laugh (those text conversations!).
While reading Always Earned, Never Given, I had a constant smile on my face, laughed out loud several times, and was just touched by the specialness of Belle and Declan. I'm looking forward to reading Bash's book next!!! The Kings of Kroydon Hills world is a great place to visit and never fails to put me in a good mood.
June 22, 2021
Annabelle Hart doesn't have time in her life for love, with caring for her young brother and running her dance studio spare time is pretty limited. Every spare minute she does have goes to her brother's needs or doing bookwork for her business. So she has pretty much given up on the idea of ever finding that happily ever after...
But Declan Sinclair is determined to change that, the moment he saw her he knew they were meant to be. She is everything he could want in a partner, she's beautiful, smart, strong, and loving... and a temptation he can no longer ignore. When he asks her to be his date for an event he's required to attend he sees it as his chance to convince her that their perfect for one another. That they could have so much more... she just has to let him in, and that is the part he's worried about!
Always Earned, Never Given is a beautifully penned friends to more romance that delights on all fronts! These two are perfect for one another, but only one of them is willing to see it or consider it. Well, the other, Belle, has been on her own for so long that she doesn't really know how to let others in. After losing her parents the care of her young brother fell on her shoulders, and it's a task she takes very seriously, almost to the point that she forgets to live herself. Everything she does is for him, but somewhere along the way she forgot about her own happiness. Often blaming her lack of a love life on not having the time, she has been able to ward men off... but Declan isn't about to take that as an excuse. He knows they are meant to be, and he is determined to earn her trust and love... even if it takes a lifetime.
Watching Belle find a little happiness after so much tragedy was so good for my battered heart. The poor girl lost almost everything the day her parents passed, and it left her struggling to find her way. But Declan came into her life and changed it for the better... I loved watching their love bloom. It was not only a heartwarming affair, but quite a steamy one too! Highly recommend you meet these characters, they will steal your heart at first glance!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
But Declan Sinclair is determined to change that, the moment he saw her he knew they were meant to be. She is everything he could want in a partner, she's beautiful, smart, strong, and loving... and a temptation he can no longer ignore. When he asks her to be his date for an event he's required to attend he sees it as his chance to convince her that their perfect for one another. That they could have so much more... she just has to let him in, and that is the part he's worried about!
Always Earned, Never Given is a beautifully penned friends to more romance that delights on all fronts! These two are perfect for one another, but only one of them is willing to see it or consider it. Well, the other, Belle, has been on her own for so long that she doesn't really know how to let others in. After losing her parents the care of her young brother fell on her shoulders, and it's a task she takes very seriously, almost to the point that she forgets to live herself. Everything she does is for him, but somewhere along the way she forgot about her own happiness. Often blaming her lack of a love life on not having the time, she has been able to ward men off... but Declan isn't about to take that as an excuse. He knows they are meant to be, and he is determined to earn her trust and love... even if it takes a lifetime.
Watching Belle find a little happiness after so much tragedy was so good for my battered heart. The poor girl lost almost everything the day her parents passed, and it left her struggling to find her way. But Declan came into her life and changed it for the better... I loved watching their love bloom. It was not only a heartwarming affair, but quite a steamy one too! Highly recommend you meet these characters, they will steal your heart at first glance!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 16, 2021
I only discovered The Kings of Kroydon Hills series a few weeks ago and it has very quickly became one of favourites!
I've been itching for Annabelle & Declans story and I can honestly say - it hasn't disappointed!!
We met them both through previous books, Annabelle more so than Declan.
Belle has had it tough and has had to grow up super fast as she lost both her parents in a tragic accident a few years back and was left to raise her little brother on her own. Tommy has Autism and is so much more than a diagnosis!...Bella Matthews wrote his character with perfection so a big congrats on that!...so she's just trying to find her way in life and has made some undeniably awesome friends (previous books!) who have helped her see that you don't have to go it alone!
Yes she's strong and fierce and kickass but she also has a vulnerable side and that is the side that has me praying she gets the hae she so desperately deserves!
Then we have Declan, the oldest brother of Cooper and Nattie and is the Quarterback of the King's and needless to say - damn he's fine!!! Although he's still a young guy, he has a wise head and he loves big!
These two just gel, there's just this connection with them that leaves no question, that these two make a damn good pair! And we cant deny the chemistry between these two is hot!!!!!!!!!!
Needless to say, it's not straight forward, there's always something or someone who tries to get in the way...but that's for you to read and find out about 😄
We also get to catch up with the rest of the gang - including Cooper!! I so want him to get his own book too - just saying 😘
All in all - an excellent addition to the series and I'm excited to see what comes next!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
I've been itching for Annabelle & Declans story and I can honestly say - it hasn't disappointed!!
We met them both through previous books, Annabelle more so than Declan.
Belle has had it tough and has had to grow up super fast as she lost both her parents in a tragic accident a few years back and was left to raise her little brother on her own. Tommy has Autism and is so much more than a diagnosis!...Bella Matthews wrote his character with perfection so a big congrats on that!...so she's just trying to find her way in life and has made some undeniably awesome friends (previous books!) who have helped her see that you don't have to go it alone!
Yes she's strong and fierce and kickass but she also has a vulnerable side and that is the side that has me praying she gets the hae she so desperately deserves!
Then we have Declan, the oldest brother of Cooper and Nattie and is the Quarterback of the King's and needless to say - damn he's fine!!! Although he's still a young guy, he has a wise head and he loves big!
These two just gel, there's just this connection with them that leaves no question, that these two make a damn good pair! And we cant deny the chemistry between these two is hot!!!!!!!!!!
Needless to say, it's not straight forward, there's always something or someone who tries to get in the way...but that's for you to read and find out about 😄
We also get to catch up with the rest of the gang - including Cooper!! I so want him to get his own book too - just saying 😘
All in all - an excellent addition to the series and I'm excited to see what comes next!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
June 16, 2021
Declan Sinclair knows one thing: his football career is everything, and he doesn’t have time for any other distractions. At least, until he sees Annabelle Hart. Declan knows from the get go that Annabelle was meant to be his, the only problem will be convincing her of that. Annabelle is stubborn, and she believes she has too much baggage for the rising football star to handle. But Declan is committed to breaking down her walls… no matter how long it takes.
Annabelle Hart loves two things with every fiber of her being: dance, and her little brother Tommy. Annabelle gave up her career at 21 to come home and take care of Tommy when her parents died in a car crash, and she acts as both father and mother to her young, special needs brother. Adding her her dance studio into the mix, Annabelle feels like she doesn’t have time for anything else, least of all a relationship. But she can’t deny her attraction to Declan Sinclair, or the way he makes her feel. Still, she is determined to push him away. Can Declan win over Annabelle? Find out in “Always Earned, Never Given,” the third book in the Kings of Kroydon Hills series by Bella Matthews!
Wow. That’s all I can say about this flipping amazing book. I was not prepared for the emotional rollercoaster, but can I say I loved every step of the way? Declan Sinclair has been added to my list of fictional boyfriends, and I swoon over the way he treated Annabelle, as well as his general sweetness and protectiveness over her. And Annabelle was so freaking relatable, her emotions and fears were so realistic and well written that I could see myself in her. I loved Annabelle and Declan together. I think their chemistry was explosive, and that in each other, they met their match. Matthews always blows me away with her novels, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!!!
Annabelle Hart loves two things with every fiber of her being: dance, and her little brother Tommy. Annabelle gave up her career at 21 to come home and take care of Tommy when her parents died in a car crash, and she acts as both father and mother to her young, special needs brother. Adding her her dance studio into the mix, Annabelle feels like she doesn’t have time for anything else, least of all a relationship. But she can’t deny her attraction to Declan Sinclair, or the way he makes her feel. Still, she is determined to push him away. Can Declan win over Annabelle? Find out in “Always Earned, Never Given,” the third book in the Kings of Kroydon Hills series by Bella Matthews!
Wow. That’s all I can say about this flipping amazing book. I was not prepared for the emotional rollercoaster, but can I say I loved every step of the way? Declan Sinclair has been added to my list of fictional boyfriends, and I swoon over the way he treated Annabelle, as well as his general sweetness and protectiveness over her. And Annabelle was so freaking relatable, her emotions and fears were so realistic and well written that I could see myself in her. I loved Annabelle and Declan together. I think their chemistry was explosive, and that in each other, they met their match. Matthews always blows me away with her novels, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!!!
June 21, 2021
Declan and Annabelle are seriously what couple goals are all about. My expectations going in AENG were very high because as you know Murphy is my number one man and has been since book one but let me tell you Bella completely blew my expectations to hell!!! This story was sooo much more than I could have ever imagined. Declan surprised me so much that man knew what he wanted and there was anything going to stand in his way of him getting his girl and the life he has always wanted. Annabelle really had to grow up fast and has had something tragic happened in her life and wasn’t sure she could ever open up her heart but Declan slowly opened her beautiful heart to all the amazing possibilities.. Complete swoon!!! These two melted my heart. Their chemistry is HOT AF like **fans self* there is also some great twists and turns that I actually didn’t see coming and some surprise moments!!!
Each book on this series I swears gets better and better. I just keep thinking wow I don’t know how Bella is going to top this one and then bam she does and it blows my mind!!! You absolutely have to grab this one and fall in love with Declan and Annabelle just like I did.
Each book on this series I swears gets better and better. I just keep thinking wow I don’t know how Bella is going to top this one and then bam she does and it blows my mind!!! You absolutely have to grab this one and fall in love with Declan and Annabelle just like I did.
June 15, 2021
I love the Kroydon books but this one is a favorite, Belle left something she dreamed of because of a horrible tragedy but when you get a great group of friends it make everything better , and then you throw in a great guy like Decan and hot damn things sure do change for the better. I cant wait to see what Bella Matthews has in-store for her next book. I absolutely think anyone who finds this book download it and read it you wont regret it.
December 27, 2022
Wowza! Declan and Belle are off the charts hot! I knew there was something special about these two in More Than a Game, but I never expected what Bella gave us. I have to say once again, I absolutely love how these tough football jocks befriend Tommy and truly take him under their wing, not teaching him football but just being his friend. It truly is heartwarming! And Declan basically taking over the role of dad, despite being the star quarterback of an NFL team, just wow! Now onto to Belles and Dec….Belle had no clue that accepting an invitation to be a date to the gala with Declan would change her life. She has embraced the role of pseudo mom to her little brother, essentially giving up her dream of being a professional ballerina when her parents die suddenly. She has no room in her life for a man, let alone the star quarterback for the local NFL team. The attraction between these two is off the charts and when Declan basically starts having ‘dates’ with Tommy, Belle is done for. Declan says ‘Anything worth being given has to be earned. And I’m gonna earn Annabelle’s heart.’ And win her heart he does! This is an amazing group of friends who are family, some by blood, some not but family they are. And family protects family, no matter where or when……and yes you have to read the book to know who is willing to put their life on the line for their family!
March 30, 2021
It is a really a good book and It is really interesting.
June 16, 2021
Always Earned, Never Given by Bella Matthews
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Steam: 💥💥💥💥4/5
Feels:😭🥺🥰😘🤭😮😍
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
🔎𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒🔎
Character age range: 20s
Leads: Annabelle and Declan
HEA:✅
Release Date: June 24th, 2021
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
📖 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎 📖
Kindle Unlimited: ✅
Audible: unsure
Series: ✅ The Kings of Kroydon Hills
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
📝REVIEW📝
First off I wanted to say when I first discovered Bella Matthews book All In I was super excited to read it since it was a sports romance and screamed my type of read! With that being said these books have blown me away! All In and More Than A Game are two of my go to books to reread!
🔹
When we first met Annabelle in All In I was really drawn to her with how she takes care of her brother and just how strong she as a person! She has been through the unimaginable losing her parents at a young age and being left with a world of responsibility. Then when we get introduced to Declan I was like wow these two together would be exactly what Annabelle needs. She is always taking care of others and she really needs someone to take care of her as well!
🔹
I love how caring Declan is to both Annabelle and Tommy. Declan is a professional football player and still finds the time for his family, which I love. You don’t want to miss Declan fight for Annabelle’s heart! This book is filled with emotion so be ready have all the feelings!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Steam: 💥💥💥💥4/5
Feels:😭🥺🥰😘🤭😮😍
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
🔎𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒🔎
Character age range: 20s
Leads: Annabelle and Declan
HEA:✅
Release Date: June 24th, 2021
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
📖 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎 📖
Kindle Unlimited: ✅
Audible: unsure
Series: ✅ The Kings of Kroydon Hills
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
📝REVIEW📝
First off I wanted to say when I first discovered Bella Matthews book All In I was super excited to read it since it was a sports romance and screamed my type of read! With that being said these books have blown me away! All In and More Than A Game are two of my go to books to reread!
🔹
When we first met Annabelle in All In I was really drawn to her with how she takes care of her brother and just how strong she as a person! She has been through the unimaginable losing her parents at a young age and being left with a world of responsibility. Then when we get introduced to Declan I was like wow these two together would be exactly what Annabelle needs. She is always taking care of others and she really needs someone to take care of her as well!
🔹
I love how caring Declan is to both Annabelle and Tommy. Declan is a professional football player and still finds the time for his family, which I love. You don’t want to miss Declan fight for Annabelle’s heart! This book is filled with emotion so be ready have all the feelings!
June 13, 2021
Bella Matthews definitely did not disappoint with the next book in the Kings of Kroydon Hills series.
In this book we get Declan and Annabelle's story and what a story it is. We get to see the chemistry begin between these two amazing characters and watch it grow. Annabelle feels that her life is to complicated to have love and Declan is here to show her that she is wrong. We watch as he slowly breaks down her barriers even though they seem to encounter obstacles at every turn. I also love how we get get glimpses of Tommy in the other books but Bella Matthews truly shines a light on autism in this book.
In this book we get Declan and Annabelle's story and what a story it is. We get to see the chemistry begin between these two amazing characters and watch it grow. Annabelle feels that her life is to complicated to have love and Declan is here to show her that she is wrong. We watch as he slowly breaks down her barriers even though they seem to encounter obstacles at every turn. I also love how we get get glimpses of Tommy in the other books but Bella Matthews truly shines a light on autism in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2022
Third's the charmer! The gang's all back together -- even Cooper makes it home on leave from his SEAL training. But it's Declan Sinclair (the famous NFL quarterback) and Annabelle Hart (the tiny ballerina) who get their love story and it's really special. It's a doozy, too -- and a dose of insta-relationship. Tommy, Belle's young brother who is autistic is a terrific and wonderful character who brings so much sweetness and lovable antics to the mixture.
There's also a bit of suspense that begs to be solved, along with some new characters who enter the picture. I'm already feeling a spin-off series! So far, this is my favorite trope -- maybe not my favorite character but . . . maybe.
A couple of oopsies but nothing a lotta love and fun won't cure. And believe me, there's plenty of hot and heavy! And count on some surprises as well!! I'm on to the fourth and final book in this series, but I'm counting on that spin-off.
June 19, 2021
Having recently discovered this author, I have fallen in love with her beautiful storytelling and charming characters. After devouring the previous 2 books in The Kings of Kroydon Hills series, I was thrilled to read Declan’s and Annabelle’s story. The author does not disappoint as Always Earned, Never Given is a delightful and engaging read!
Annabelle and Declan are those perfectly imperfect characters with tremendous strengths but also flaws that make them seem so real. I couldn’t help but love Declan. A famous NFL player, he avoids the limelight and is relatively down to earth. This charming young man has set his sights on Belle, but pursuing a relationship with her won’t be easy! Annabelle is a complex heroine and I couldn’t love her more. She is strong, yet vulnerable. She is cautious, has a huge heart, and let’s just say that I as able to identify with her on so many levels. These two have amazing chemistry and a they make the perfect couple.
The secondary characters are an added treat. I especially adored Belle’s little brother Tommy. That boy captured my heart! I enjoyed reuniting with the crew from Kroydon Hills as they bring not only humor with their witty banter, but also are voices of reason when it comes to Declan and Belle navigating their feelings toward each other. This book is about so much more than love but about family and friendship. The community that this author has created amongst these characters is part of what makes this series so spectacular.
Always Earned, Never Given is book 3 in the series, but I do believe it can be read as a standalone. However, this entire series is amazing so be sure to check out the earlier books as well!
I voluntarily read an early version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Annabelle and Declan are those perfectly imperfect characters with tremendous strengths but also flaws that make them seem so real. I couldn’t help but love Declan. A famous NFL player, he avoids the limelight and is relatively down to earth. This charming young man has set his sights on Belle, but pursuing a relationship with her won’t be easy! Annabelle is a complex heroine and I couldn’t love her more. She is strong, yet vulnerable. She is cautious, has a huge heart, and let’s just say that I as able to identify with her on so many levels. These two have amazing chemistry and a they make the perfect couple.
The secondary characters are an added treat. I especially adored Belle’s little brother Tommy. That boy captured my heart! I enjoyed reuniting with the crew from Kroydon Hills as they bring not only humor with their witty banter, but also are voices of reason when it comes to Declan and Belle navigating their feelings toward each other. This book is about so much more than love but about family and friendship. The community that this author has created amongst these characters is part of what makes this series so spectacular.
Always Earned, Never Given is book 3 in the series, but I do believe it can be read as a standalone. However, this entire series is amazing so be sure to check out the earlier books as well!
I voluntarily read an early version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 23, 2021
Aw I loved this book! It’s the 3rd in the Kings of Kroydon Hills series and it follows Declan & Annabelle.
First of.. Declan Sinclair is the SWEETEST guy ever 😭 he was just adorable. He treated Annabelle with so much love and respect I was just swooning the whole book! And the way he treated Annabelle’s younger brother who had autism was just amazing! Such an incredible character!
And Annabelle.. she is so selfless & kind. She always put others before herself and thinks of her own happiness last. Declan was just a breath of fresh air for her and exactly what she needed!
I love the relationships and friendships in this series! They’re all so close and they all intertwine and I just love that! This comes out tomorrow and I think everyone will love it! It is part of a series but could be read as a standalone (I’ve only read book one and three and I didn’t feel I was missing anything!). Highly recommend ✨
First of.. Declan Sinclair is the SWEETEST guy ever 😭 he was just adorable. He treated Annabelle with so much love and respect I was just swooning the whole book! And the way he treated Annabelle’s younger brother who had autism was just amazing! Such an incredible character!
And Annabelle.. she is so selfless & kind. She always put others before herself and thinks of her own happiness last. Declan was just a breath of fresh air for her and exactly what she needed!
I love the relationships and friendships in this series! They’re all so close and they all intertwine and I just love that! This comes out tomorrow and I think everyone will love it! It is part of a series but could be read as a standalone (I’ve only read book one and three and I didn’t feel I was missing anything!). Highly recommend ✨
June 23, 2021
This third Kroydon Hills book had me reading long into the night.
I'm not usually into the extreme opposites of a professional football player and a ballerina, I thought it was a bit of a stretch, this story fooled me. Both of these protagonists were strong characters who overcame so much in order to live the lives they want.
Annabelle became a guardian unexpectedly and had to rearrange her life to give her best to her charge, which also meant avoiding relationships. Declan could see nothing in his life but reaching the NFL, until he decided he wanted Annabelle. But did she want him ?
The author is so good at creating a mood, I laughed, cried and in all honesty, swore at the stubborness of the characters.
If you want a great read, you can't miss with this.
I'm not usually into the extreme opposites of a professional football player and a ballerina, I thought it was a bit of a stretch, this story fooled me. Both of these protagonists were strong characters who overcame so much in order to live the lives they want.
Annabelle became a guardian unexpectedly and had to rearrange her life to give her best to her charge, which also meant avoiding relationships. Declan could see nothing in his life but reaching the NFL, until he decided he wanted Annabelle. But did she want him ?
The author is so good at creating a mood, I laughed, cried and in all honesty, swore at the stubborness of the characters.
If you want a great read, you can't miss with this.
June 14, 2021
My heart feels whole because Bella has done it again! She has completely blown me away with this story. I just finished reading it and I already want to read it again! I love these characters so much, I feel like I'm part of their family. I cannot get enough of their lives and never want these books to end. Annabelle and Declan were just, ugh, perfect. And Tommy, Annabelle's brother, made me laugh out loud multiple times. Wow, can Declan ever give a speech, he had me swooning almost every time he talked. You know bad guys are fun, but give me a nice guy to sweep me off my feet any day of the week. Declan was so sure of him and Annabelle and man was it sexy. Annabelle was just so real, I felt what she felt and understood where she was coming from. There was also some mystery and intrigue thrown in there which gave me more reasons to love this story. I cannot say enough good things about this book! It has easily slid into one of favourite reads this year! Phenomenal story and I cannot wait for Bash's book!
June 21, 2021
4/4.5 ⭐️
Always Earned, Never Given is the third book in The Kings of Kroydon Hill series. It tells the story of Belle and Declan through their dual perspectives.
After a tragedy left Annabelle ‘Belle’ Hart without parents, her world is turned upside down. Having left her ballet career behind and become a full time guardian for her little brother Tommy, who has autism. Belle now runs her own dance studio Hart & Soul, while taking caring of her brother with no time for anything else. However when Declan comes into her life, she can’t help but fall for him. But with everything she already has going on in her life, she doesn’t have the time for a relationship. Yet that doesn’t stop her from feeling the pull between herself and Declan. Especially when Declan is doing everything he can to earn his way into her life.
Declan ‘Dec’ Sinclair is the Quarterback for the Philadelphia Kings, the team that his dad just so happens to coach. With his reputation not being in the best light, Declan is made to put himself out in the media more. Leading to attending an event in which he asks Annabelle to be his date. The girl he has wanted since he first set his sights upon her. Knowing they're meant to be together with the more time they spend together, how can he convince her to take a chance on him. Given that Annabelle can’t help but fight the connection by pulling away.
This story was definitely fun to read, it had a little bit of everything from laughter, happiness, love, sadness, suspense, mystery and chaos with a few surprises and twists thrown into the mix.
Right from the get go you could see that Declan and Belle were made for each other. And not just from the fact that they couldn’t keep away from each other and were constantly thinking about one another when they weren’t together. There was a connection between them that had them gravitating towards each other always. Knowing that no matter what was happening in their life or what they were going through, they always called on each other first. As if there was no other option, regardless of their friends and family.
Plus there was the fact that despite Belle pulling away, Declan did everything in his power to fight for Belle and prove to her they were meant to be together with constantly breaking down her walls. Even when she would try to build them back up. If that’s not true love, then I don’t know what is.
Honestly they were such a cute couple, the way they were so affectionate with one another, never able to keep their hands off each other for too long. With all the lovey dovey, syrupy sweet moments between them throughout the story, you could definitely get a cavity just from reading about them alone.
I enjoyed reading Declan and Belle’s story, it was light and fluffy that you couldn’t help but fall headfirst into the book. At the same time, it had it’s moments of intensity through all the emotions that poured throughout the pages. Especially given how the story flowed throughout, you couldn’t help but get sucked in. Plus there was the added bonus of all the secondary characters, mainly my Bash! Which was just the cherry on top of the cake. It made reading Always Earned, Never Given that much more enjoyable.
But with that said, there was something I wasn’t too keen on. That being the inconsistency when it came to the mystery and suspense buildup surrounding the hints that were given. It felt as if it was all forgotten about for a majority of the story, at least until the climax showdown occurred. I just felt the consistency of the buildup should’ve been there throughout, seeing as when the climax did arise it kind of just felt out of the blue IMO, as if thrown in there just to have a overall major explosive drama moment. Since the flow of the buildup was never really explored upon as it should’ve been.
Other than that, Belle and Dec’s story was a great read, particularly with seeing them get their HEA. Especially Belle since she deserved it more than anyone. It still has to be said Nattie and Brady are still going strong as being my favourite. #SorryNotSorry
I would recommend checking out Always Earned, Never Given! Especially if you have already read the previous books in The Kings of Kroydon Hills series!
And with that sneak peek of Bash’s story at the end, safe to say I can’t wait for his book Under Pressure!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Always Earned, Never Given is the third book in The Kings of Kroydon Hill series. It tells the story of Belle and Declan through their dual perspectives.
After a tragedy left Annabelle ‘Belle’ Hart without parents, her world is turned upside down. Having left her ballet career behind and become a full time guardian for her little brother Tommy, who has autism. Belle now runs her own dance studio Hart & Soul, while taking caring of her brother with no time for anything else. However when Declan comes into her life, she can’t help but fall for him. But with everything she already has going on in her life, she doesn’t have the time for a relationship. Yet that doesn’t stop her from feeling the pull between herself and Declan. Especially when Declan is doing everything he can to earn his way into her life.
Declan ‘Dec’ Sinclair is the Quarterback for the Philadelphia Kings, the team that his dad just so happens to coach. With his reputation not being in the best light, Declan is made to put himself out in the media more. Leading to attending an event in which he asks Annabelle to be his date. The girl he has wanted since he first set his sights upon her. Knowing they're meant to be together with the more time they spend together, how can he convince her to take a chance on him. Given that Annabelle can’t help but fight the connection by pulling away.
This story was definitely fun to read, it had a little bit of everything from laughter, happiness, love, sadness, suspense, mystery and chaos with a few surprises and twists thrown into the mix.
Right from the get go you could see that Declan and Belle were made for each other. And not just from the fact that they couldn’t keep away from each other and were constantly thinking about one another when they weren’t together. There was a connection between them that had them gravitating towards each other always. Knowing that no matter what was happening in their life or what they were going through, they always called on each other first. As if there was no other option, regardless of their friends and family.
Plus there was the fact that despite Belle pulling away, Declan did everything in his power to fight for Belle and prove to her they were meant to be together with constantly breaking down her walls. Even when she would try to build them back up. If that’s not true love, then I don’t know what is.
Honestly they were such a cute couple, the way they were so affectionate with one another, never able to keep their hands off each other for too long. With all the lovey dovey, syrupy sweet moments between them throughout the story, you could definitely get a cavity just from reading about them alone.
I enjoyed reading Declan and Belle’s story, it was light and fluffy that you couldn’t help but fall headfirst into the book. At the same time, it had it’s moments of intensity through all the emotions that poured throughout the pages. Especially given how the story flowed throughout, you couldn’t help but get sucked in. Plus there was the added bonus of all the secondary characters, mainly my Bash! Which was just the cherry on top of the cake. It made reading Always Earned, Never Given that much more enjoyable.
But with that said, there was something I wasn’t too keen on. That being the inconsistency when it came to the mystery and suspense buildup surrounding the hints that were given. It felt as if it was all forgotten about for a majority of the story, at least until the climax showdown occurred. I just felt the consistency of the buildup should’ve been there throughout, seeing as when the climax did arise it kind of just felt out of the blue IMO, as if thrown in there just to have a overall major explosive drama moment. Since the flow of the buildup was never really explored upon as it should’ve been.
Other than that, Belle and Dec’s story was a great read, particularly with seeing them get their HEA. Especially Belle since she deserved it more than anyone. It still has to be said Nattie and Brady are still going strong as being my favourite. #SorryNotSorry
I would recommend checking out Always Earned, Never Given! Especially if you have already read the previous books in The Kings of Kroydon Hills series!
And with that sneak peek of Bash’s story at the end, safe to say I can’t wait for his book Under Pressure!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2021
4 1/2 Stars for this sweet romance!
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it won't be my last. I just loved Bella and Declan ... they are so perfect for each other. I loved how Declan never faltered in his feelings for Bella ... he knew he wanted her from the moment they met. And Bella is so sweet ... but strong and takes charge of her and her brother's life. Tommy is just so precious ... the things that came out of his mouth had me laughing out loud. The banter between all the characters is very realistic and the storyline is well developed. The other characters from the two previous books that appear in this book ... just make me want to read their stories. Plus, I can't wait to the next book!
Annabella was an up-and-coming ballerina when her parents died in car crash, leaving her to parent to 8-year-old autistic brother. Two years later her life is on a whole new trajectory ... she's caring for her brother, owns a dance studio, and lives in her childhood home. Her dreams of becoming a ballerina are long forgotten, as her life is so full she doesn't even have time to date.
Declan was a first-round draft pick in the NFL ... the only bad thing about that is his father is the coach on his new team. Now he has to work twice as hard to prove to the fans that he has the talent to belong on this team. Declan has to put his all into this and has no time to date. When he asks Annabella (the tiny ballerina his sister works for) to be his date for a charity dinner he has to attend, he never would have guessed the evening would end up with them in bed together. And now he knows he has to make her his because he can't get her out of his head.
I received an early copy courtesy of Victory Editing NetGalley Coop through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it won't be my last. I just loved Bella and Declan ... they are so perfect for each other. I loved how Declan never faltered in his feelings for Bella ... he knew he wanted her from the moment they met. And Bella is so sweet ... but strong and takes charge of her and her brother's life. Tommy is just so precious ... the things that came out of his mouth had me laughing out loud. The banter between all the characters is very realistic and the storyline is well developed. The other characters from the two previous books that appear in this book ... just make me want to read their stories. Plus, I can't wait to the next book!
Annabella was an up-and-coming ballerina when her parents died in car crash, leaving her to parent to 8-year-old autistic brother. Two years later her life is on a whole new trajectory ... she's caring for her brother, owns a dance studio, and lives in her childhood home. Her dreams of becoming a ballerina are long forgotten, as her life is so full she doesn't even have time to date.
Declan was a first-round draft pick in the NFL ... the only bad thing about that is his father is the coach on his new team. Now he has to work twice as hard to prove to the fans that he has the talent to belong on this team. Declan has to put his all into this and has no time to date. When he asks Annabella (the tiny ballerina his sister works for) to be his date for a charity dinner he has to attend, he never would have guessed the evening would end up with them in bed together. And now he knows he has to make her his because he can't get her out of his head.
I received an early copy courtesy of Victory Editing NetGalley Coop through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
June 21, 2021
Copy received from the Next Step PR. Voluntarily reviewing and all opinions are objective and my own.
Seems readers were really excited for Annabelle and Declan, but I wasn’t. I suppose because they were the “older” of the generation, they didn’t really stand out for me, but then once I got reading, I fell deep into their story and ended up enjoying them so much.
Of the series, Annabelle and Declan are definitely the best developed couple. Their issues are “real” and bigger than the others, and much more emotionally invested. Annabelle has had some problems in the past, resulting in her caring for her brother with autism and managing her ballet school. Declan is so close to pro football and has the rest of his life mapped out.
This friends to lovers romance is super sweet. I loved how invested Declan got into Annabelle’s life, and with her brother. I enjoyed the progression as well. Annabelle was cautious over a romance, but never annoying in her resistance.
All in all, good read, and Bash’s book is up next. HIM i’ve been excited for since book 1!
Seems readers were really excited for Annabelle and Declan, but I wasn’t. I suppose because they were the “older” of the generation, they didn’t really stand out for me, but then once I got reading, I fell deep into their story and ended up enjoying them so much.
Of the series, Annabelle and Declan are definitely the best developed couple. Their issues are “real” and bigger than the others, and much more emotionally invested. Annabelle has had some problems in the past, resulting in her caring for her brother with autism and managing her ballet school. Declan is so close to pro football and has the rest of his life mapped out.
This friends to lovers romance is super sweet. I loved how invested Declan got into Annabelle’s life, and with her brother. I enjoyed the progression as well. Annabelle was cautious over a romance, but never annoying in her resistance.
All in all, good read, and Bash’s book is up next. HIM i’ve been excited for since book 1!
June 24, 2021
Declan and Annabelle! I don’t even know where to start! This is Bella’s third book baby and she just keeps getting better and better! I never thought anyone could take Murphy’s love in my heart but here came Declan and his swoony ways and destroyed me! Don’t even get me started on Annabelle! She’s so strong and selfless, beautiful and loves with her whole heart! The way she loves and cares for Tommy and puts him first always! My heart broke and rebroke for this couple! I’m so glad they got the HEA! Such a beautiful story written by a beautiful lady!
Always Earned, Never Given is my King of Kroydon Hills!
GO READ NOW! I promise you won’t regret it!
Always Earned, Never Given is my King of Kroydon Hills!
GO READ NOW! I promise you won’t regret it!
June 22, 2021
"I think I've been holding my breath my entire life, and I can finally breathe again."
I have spent the past few days completely immersed within The Kings of Kroydon Hills book world; and YA'LL! I'm obsessed! With this world, these characters! (fingers crossed for Cooper's book) & I have to say that Declan & Annabelle and their story is one of my favorites! This was read full of lots of swoon! ALL the feels & twists that will certainly keep you on your toes! I LOVED these two! Loved their journey and I cannot wait for more from this series! GAH! SO GOOD!
I have spent the past few days completely immersed within The Kings of Kroydon Hills book world; and YA'LL! I'm obsessed! With this world, these characters! (fingers crossed for Cooper's book) & I have to say that Declan & Annabelle and their story is one of my favorites! This was read full of lots of swoon! ALL the feels & twists that will certainly keep you on your toes! I LOVED these two! Loved their journey and I cannot wait for more from this series! GAH! SO GOOD!
June 22, 2021
4 ⛤⛤⛤⛤
~Declan Sinclair & Annabelle Hart~
Go KINGS!!!
I love Declan & Belle's story so much!
Since meeting Annabelle in the first book, All In I know I want to read her story and wow. Belle is so strong. After all she's been through, the sacrifices she has made, she's still standing tall. Declan is the perfect partner for Belle. He's more than just a star quarterback, he's every bit human and so humble. His dedication towards the game he plays, his love for his family, which now extends to Belle and Tommy is #swoonworthy.
As always, I love the interaction between the girls' gang. The support Belle gets from them is astounding and I love them for giving Belle the friends she needs. To rival the girls, the guys' group chat is so funny. To sum up: I love these guys.
The story is fast-paced yet I believe it's a perfect story for Declan and Belle. Their love is instant but everlasting. I love that I can still see the previous couples and I love to see everybody so happy.
Now, I can't wait for Bash's book, Under Pressure , and his brother, Sam, Rise Of The King .
*Thank you TheNextStep PR for the ARC!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
~Declan Sinclair & Annabelle Hart~
Go KINGS!!!
I love Declan & Belle's story so much!
Since meeting Annabelle in the first book, All In I know I want to read her story and wow. Belle is so strong. After all she's been through, the sacrifices she has made, she's still standing tall. Declan is the perfect partner for Belle. He's more than just a star quarterback, he's every bit human and so humble. His dedication towards the game he plays, his love for his family, which now extends to Belle and Tommy is #swoonworthy.
As always, I love the interaction between the girls' gang. The support Belle gets from them is astounding and I love them for giving Belle the friends she needs. To rival the girls, the guys' group chat is so funny. To sum up: I love these guys.
The story is fast-paced yet I believe it's a perfect story for Declan and Belle. Their love is instant but everlasting. I love that I can still see the previous couples and I love to see everybody so happy.
Now, I can't wait for Bash's book, Under Pressure , and his brother, Sam, Rise Of The King .
*Thank you TheNextStep PR for the ARC!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
June 21, 2021
I'm really enjoying the Kings of Kroydon Hill series and this latest instalment is no exception. When we started with book one, All In, our characters were still at High School and quite young. Time had moved on slightly by book two, More Than A Game, and the hero and heroine of this book were a little older. This third book focuses on Declan and Annabelle, who are also a bit older than the rest of their friends and family.
This was a great read. Anabelle has had a lot to deal with, but she finds happiness with Declan. He is a very sweet character and offers her all that she's ever wanted, even if she didn't know that was what she was looking for.
There is a slight suspense element to this story. In all honesty, though, it comes as secondary to their romance. Not that it takes anything away from that, it's just that the growing relationship between Anabelle and Declan is so much more interesting and satisfying.
All in all this was a great read and I can't wait for more from the rest of the Kings of Kroydon Hill.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This was a great read. Anabelle has had a lot to deal with, but she finds happiness with Declan. He is a very sweet character and offers her all that she's ever wanted, even if she didn't know that was what she was looking for.
There is a slight suspense element to this story. In all honesty, though, it comes as secondary to their romance. Not that it takes anything away from that, it's just that the growing relationship between Anabelle and Declan is so much more interesting and satisfying.
All in all this was a great read and I can't wait for more from the rest of the Kings of Kroydon Hill.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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